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HERO-CM has three main areas of research: large-area forest change monitoring, vulnerability analysis, and prediction of land use and land cover change. |
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Vulnerability Analysis
The research topic for the HERO-CM REU Class of 2006-07 will build on the research of the Class of 2005-6. That research explored the ability of
central and eastern Massachusetts communities to adapt to variations in rainfall, with a principal focus on droughts. For residents of
this relatively rainy region, the availability of water for everyday consumption has not historically been a point of high concern. The region receives an abundant amount of rainfall (approximately 42 inches/year) with relatively little inter
and intra-annual variation. This relatively stable water supply has fostered the public perception that water from the sky will invariably find its way to the sink or the hose. Today, however, these communities face increasing stress from population growth and development, as well as the potential for increased frequency and intensity of droughts and floods due to global climate change.
Moreover, there is an evolving body of regulations, at federal, state and local
levels that restrict how much water people can consume. Indeed, in one of the study area towns (Holden), significant restrictions have been imposed over the last few years,
despite abundant rainfall (see photo, taken in summer 2004). It is therefore
imperative to evaluate how drought - defined as a threatened or actual inability
to supply the demand for water associated with variations in rainfall - has
impacted communities, and how different agents of change and elements of social
structure affect a community's ability to respond to stresses, to avoid
undesirable outcomes.
Clark University students who wish to participate in the HERO-CM REU stream should so designate on their application. Questions should be addressed to Professor Colin Polsky at cpolsky@clarku.edu
or 508-421-3828.
Visit Professor Polsky's School of Geography Web site.
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Additional Resources
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Water ban in effect sign in Holden, Massachusetts. Drought is a growing problem in Massachusetts.
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