Droughts and Water Shortages: Economic Impacts and Reducing Vulnerability
We are conducting a comprehensive study of drought and water
shortages in Washington State to (a) analyze impacts from recent droughts,
(b) identify
the most vulnerable areas and sectors, (c) develop indicators to monitor and
forecast drought 
conditions, and (d) determine ways to reduce drought vulnerability
and impacts in the future. A focus is the economic assessment of drought in
the state.
An additional contribution is the development of drought indicators and responses. Indicators are important to monitor and forecast drought conditions, characterize and compare drought severity, and provide a basis for triggering drought responses. Responses are important to reduce drought impacts, and include mitigations and adaptations taken before, during, and after a drought.
A result of this study will be an economic assessment of drought, and the benefits and costs of taking early action to reduce the widespread and long-lasting effects of droughts.
Funded by State of Washington, Center for Trade and Economic Development
Anne C. Steinemann, PI
Above: the dry bed of the Methow River in 2001. Photo: Washington Dept. of Ecology.