Research on Arctic Water Systems
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Our Research
Our Research
This project is dedicated to the understanding of drinking water services in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. We aim to improve water infrastructure operator trainings and certifications by connecting local knowledge to technical operations. Specifically, we are interested in understanding the potential role of indigenous and cultural practices in bettering the operation, maintenance, and management of water systems in rural Alaska. Our final objective is to use our technical knowledge with local practices to improve water infrastructure operations, maintenance, management, and communication between water infrastructure stakeholders.
Graphic by Victoria Sosa
Research Phases
Research Phases
Understand Knowledge Bases
Understand Knowledge Bases
We are exploring existing bodies of knowledge, which include
Learning from indigenous perspectives through books, stories, and interviews
Analyzing existing operator training and certification materials
Comparing indigenous and engineering knowledge structures to better meet end-user needs
Explore Knowledge Gaps
Explore Knowledge Gaps
We are exploring causes and solutions for gaps identified in the first phase by
Participating in focus group conversations
Exploring gaps between operators and end-user needs
Identifying social and cultural components that could fill identified gaps
Using natural language processing to analyze written materials
Evaluate and Implement Findings
Evaluate and Implement Findings
We will evaluate the potential solutions and begin to implement them through
Developing operations, management and maintenance (OMM) practices to fill gaps
Creating OMM materials that address gaps between engineering and indigenous systems
Connecting with operators to share our findings and improve water quality
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