Water in the Western United States

Anne Gold is a Senior Associate Scientist at the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she also directs the CIRES Center for Education, Engagement, and Evaluation (CEEE). Her work centers on science education related to climate, water, polar regions, and geosciences, focusing on effective teaching and learning strategies. With a background as a climate scientist, Anne has conducted extensive fieldwork and mentored students while leading research experiences for undergraduates. She is dedicated to translating scientific knowledge into educational opportunities and emphasizes place-based education grounded in solid research. Anne has led numerous NSF, NOAA, and NASA-funded education projects and oversees a team of 24 professionals committed to creating meaningful educational experiences for diverse learners.

Eric Gordon is a seasoned professional with nearly 20 years of experience in environmental science, policy, and education. He served as the Managing Director of the Western Water Assessment from 2010 to 2015, a NOAA-supported program aimed at bridging climate science with water and natural resource management in the Intermountain West. His contributions include leading the Colorado Climate Change Vulnerability Study and publishing research on the impacts of climate change on watershed dynamics. Eric holds two Master's degrees from the University of Colorado Boulder—one in Environmental Studies and another in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology—as well as a Bachelor's degree in Communication from the University of Pennsylvania.Currently, Eric is a high school science teacher and also teaches "Introduction to Environmental Science" through the University of Colorado Denver. His course "Water in the Western United States," offered on Coursera, delves into critical issues surrounding water management in the context of climate change, making it relevant for both local and global audiences. Outside of his professional commitments, Eric enjoys outdoor activities like biking and skiing, reflecting his passion for the environment he teaches about