Depletion of the Groundwater Commons in the Ogallala Aquifer: An Interdisciplinary Approach from Science, Technology, and Society
Level of Education of Students Involved
Undergraduate
Faculty Sponsor
Matthew Puffer
College
Christ College
Discipline(s)
Environmental Science, Sociology, Philosophy
ORCID Identifier(s)
0000-0003-3605-4310
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 4-25-2024
Abstract
The growing social concern in the United States about climate change, environmental action, social injustice, and economic inequality have led researchers, producers, politicians, and scientists alike to explore the intersection of technological practices and societal disparities. The Great Plains states occupy a common pool resource (CPR): groundwater. In this region, the Ogallala Aquifer provides groundwater access for most of the population for drinking, industry, and agricultural practices. However, with widespread mechanized agriculture and economically disadvantaged communities, this region currently is experiencing a tragedy of the commons, where the aquifer is depleted faster than it can be replenished. Even with the invention of the Environmental Protection Agency and implementation of various groundwater policies, questions arise about why this depletion still occurs. How does it impact various communities? What should be done to allow for agriculture and other industries to continue a prosperous endeavor? To best address these questions, we look at the historical and scientific mechanisms that contribute to groundwater depletion along with sociological interpretations of convenience and stratification in order to provide scientific, technological, and societal solutions to CPR management.
Recommended Citation
Colwell, Jack E.; Morrison, Kyle; Daehler, Conner; Goff, Megan; and McCauley, Ellie, "Depletion of the Groundwater Commons in the Ogallala Aquifer: An Interdisciplinary Approach from Science, Technology, and Society" (2024). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 1273.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/1273
Biographical Information about Author(s)
Jack E. Colwell is a junior geography and environmental science double major from Chillicothe, IL.
Kyle Morrison is a junior mechanical engineering major from Lake Zurich, IL.
Megan Goff is a junior sociology major from McHenry, Illinois.
Conner Daehler is a sophomore electrical engineering major from McHenry, Illinois.
Elliana McCauley is a junior civil engineering major from Jackson, Tennessee