One of the most precious resources in the world is clean, safe, and accessible water. While global climate model suggest that melting of polar ice caps will result in sea level increases, this does not translate into greater quantities of high quality water for the Northern Great Plains.

We will still be reliant on ground water and surface water for agricultural and human consumption. Climate models suggest that semi-arid regions may experience warmer and dryer conditions making sustainable agriculture in theses regions more difficult. This climate change would necessitate a change in normal agricultural practices from dry land farming to irrigation. Increased irrigation would place additional stress on the groundwater resources of the region. Despite the wet conditions experienced in North Dakota this spring, particularly the flooding of Devils Lake and the Red River of the North, this area has experienced increased concerns of water shortages for manufacturing and food processing industry.

Will the increase in temperature predicted by current modeling mean more or less water available? Will the spatial variability of climate change and variability produce drier conditions in one area and wetter conditions in another? Where water issues are concerned, urban and rural areas of this region will impacted to a similar degree. These questions will continue to be asked until the level of modeling efforts provide the resolution and accuracy needed to support responsible and informed decisions protecting the water resources of this region.