Water Resources Economist

Water Resources Economists study the use and management of water resources, and develop plans to ensure that these resources are used sustainably. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or nonprofit organizations.

What Water Resources Economists Do

Water Resources Economists may perform the following tasks:

• Conduct research on water resources, including their availability, quality, and use
• Develop plans for the management of water resources, including water conservation, water allocation, and water quality protection
• Advise government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations on water resources issues
• Educate the public about water resources issues
• Write reports, articles, and other publications on water resources issues

Education and Training

Water Resources Economists typically have a bachelor's degree in economics, environmental science, or a related field. They may also have a master's degree in water resources economics or a related field. Some Water Resources Economists have a Ph.D. in economics or a related field.

Skills and Knowledge

Water Resources Economists should have the following skills and knowledge:

• Strong analytical skills
• Strong communication skills
• Knowledge of economics and environmental science
• Knowledge of water resources management
• Experience with modeling and simulation
• Experience with GIS

Career Outlook

The job outlook for Water Resources Economists is expected to be good over the next few years. As the world's population grows and climate change continues to impact water resources, there will be a growing need for Water Resources Economists to help manage these resources.

Career Growth

Water Resources Economists may advance to more senior positions, such as project manager, director of water resources, or chief water resources economist. They may also start their own consulting firms.

Transferable Skills

The skills and knowledge that Water Resources Economists develop can be transferred to other careers in economics, environmental science, and public policy.

Day-to-Day Work

The day-to-day work of a Water Resources Economist may include:

• Conducting research on water resources
• Developing plans for the management of water resources
• Advising government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations on water resources issues
• Educating the public about water resources issues
• Writing reports, articles, and other publications on water resources issues

Challenges

Water Resources Economists may face the following challenges:

• The complex and often conflicting demands for water resources
• The need to balance economic development with environmental protection
• The impact of climate change on water resources
• The need to communicate technical information to a variety of audiences

Projects

Water Resources Economists may work on the following types of projects:

• Developing a water conservation plan for a city or region
• Allocating water resources between different users, such as agriculture, industry, and recreation
• Protecting water quality from pollution
• Educating the public about water resources issues

Personal Growth

Water Resources Economists may experience the following personal growth opportunities:

• Increased knowledge of water resources and their management
• Improved analytical and communication skills
• Increased awareness of the importance of water resources
• Increased ability to work with a variety of stakeholders

Personality Traits and Personal Interests

Water Resources Economists may have the following personality traits and personal interests:

• Analytical
• Communicative
• Curious
• Interested in environmental issues
• Interested in economics

Self-Guided Projects

Students may complete the following self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for a career as a Water Resources Economist:

• Conduct research on a water resources issue in your community
• Develop a plan for managing a water resource, such as a river or lake
• Write a report on a water resources issue
• Give a presentation on a water resources issue

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about water resources economics. These courses can provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to enter this field. Students can learn about water resources, water management, economics, and modeling and simulation. Online courses can be a flexible and affordable way to learn about water resources economics.

Online courses can help students prepare for a career as a Water Resources Economist by providing them with the following:

• A strong foundation in the principles of economics and water resources management
• Skills in modeling, simulation, and GIS
• Knowledge of the latest water resources issues
• The opportunity to network with professionals in the field

Online courses alone may not be enough to prepare someone for a career as a Water Resources Economist. However, they can be a helpful learning tool that can supplement other forms of education and training.