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April Snell
Political Science

Pete Suttmeier, Mentor
Pat McDowell, Mentor

Chaos in an Oasis of Interests: The Role of Science in Klamath Basin Water Allocation

Water allocation in the Klamath Basin is a potentially polarizing issue with a multiplicity of interests. Agriculture, business, Native American, environmental, political, and governmental interests are at odds with themselves and one another. Scarce water resources and departmentalized management has created a lose-lose situation in a setting that lacks enough water to supply all demands. All sides use science as a tool of political pressure. Each side tends to call its supporting evidence “good science”, and the opposing evidence “junk science.” Each particular interest has a narrow window of perception in which there is little room for discussion and cooperative action. Further research by independent scientific organizations, extensive drought planning, and the creation of an inclusive mid-level governmental group are needed to mitigate and resolve the tensions created by water shortage. Interviews and intensive document research support the idea that patience, sacrifice, and cooperation are all necessary to bring balance to a chaotic situation and ensure the sustainability of the Klamath Basin region.