Left High and Dry? Climate Change, Common-Pool Resource Theory, and the Adaptability of Western Water Compacts*

Vulnerability is largely a function of the levels of exposure and sensitivity in populations to the different stresses resulting from climate change. This chapter shows how common-pool resource theory (CPRT) applies to interstate compacts. It discusses propositions informed by CPRT and illustrates their validity in the management arena with examples from an earlier comparative study of fourteen western interstate water compacts that focus largely on supply-side efforts. When assessing how vulnerable or how adaptable compacts are to climate change, the chapter begins with an analysis of water allocation rules. Common-pool resource (CPR) research clearly shows that climate change vulnerability and adaptability are a function of both state physical features and administrative capacities and that these will vary across states and times. Although Upstream states may be forced into the position of first responders to the effects of climate change, they also have the opportunity to work together with downstream states via interstate commissions to adapt to the challenges facing compacts.