Analyzing Conflicts over Water Extraction from Great Lakes of North America through Game Theory Approaches

Municipalities, water bottling companies, and other heavy water consumers are extracting large amounts of water from fresh water sources such as the Great Lakes, intensifying the already large effects imposed by extended periods of low rainfall and high temperatures. Applications for permissions to extract more water from the Great Lakes and also, the advantages and disadvantages of using different methods of water transportation have fueled a series of disputes. Great Lakes’ surrounding states and provinces try to protect the Great Lakes. But heavy water consumers seek further access to the rich water source. After identifying the important players, their preferences and options have been analyzed using the graph model of conflict resolution (GMCR) approach. It is suggested that the equilibrium state is a situation in which no water extraction permissions from the Great Lakes would be issued to additional parties. On the other hand though, a lot of water seekers would be trying to get approvals to access the Great Lakes. They would also however, seek other alternatives regarding their water requirements. This research should enhance understanding of the conflicts over water extraction and transportation from Great Lakes, and hence, help decision makers predict/prevent other potential water disputes.