Understanding the socio-political and economic context of energy development is crucial for an accurate portrayal of the true tradeoffs of energy development. In addition to the bio-physical effects, development of oil and gas has an effect on and is affected by the surrounding communities and the region as a whole. Synthetic literature reviews can elucidate what is already known about these effects, create a common understanding of the social and economic context for energy development and habitat conservation, and provide a basis for dialogue with the public through the entire adaptive management process. For this task, literature produced prior to and during the current energy-development booms in Southwest Wyoming was reviewed to identify trends in socioeconomic effects and how the effects and perceptions of those effects have changed. The results of this effort can be used to inform further research and assist communities affected by energy development. A concomitant case study of the WLCI area will use baseline data provided by the U.S. Bureaus of the Census, Labor Statistics, and Economic Analysis.
Products Completed in FY2010
- Miller, H., Montag, J.M., Essen, M., Ponds, P., and Willis, C., in press, Socioeconomic effects of oil and gas development in the western United States -- A literature review: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2011.
Products Completed in FY2009
- Stinchfield, H., Montag, J.M., and Essen, M., 2009, Socioeconomic effects of oil and gas development in the western United States -- A literature review: Poster presented at the WLCI Science Workshop, May 2009, Laramie, Wyo.
Products Completed in FY2008
- Current socioeconomic issues surrounding oil and gas development in the western United States -- Stinchfield and others, presented at the 14th International Symposium on Society and Resource Management, June 11, 2008, Burlington, Vt.
