Edited by Cassie Sevigny
The Connections between Water and Rural Production project (CAP) investigates whether and which farmers adapt their production systems when they experience changes in rainfall, what adaptations they make, and whether these adaptations reduce income losses expected when drying occurs. Improved understanding of these responses will inform efforts by government agencies and civil society to help farmers adjust to changes in water availability. This profile is based on an interview with Corrie Monteverde, a Ph.D. student working with Co-Principal Investigator Fernando de Sales.
Why and how did you become involved in this project?
I became involved in this project during the first year of my PhD. I was excited to join my advisor, Fernando De Sales and the rest of the Water Production Connections team! Although my Master's work focused on California's climate, shifting focus to Brazil is going to be a remarkable research journey for me.
What is your favorite part of being involved in research?
Being a part of such a collaborative team has opened my eyes to the challenges and triumphs that a project of this size comes with. But it truly is amazing to converse and conduct research with such amazing and intelligent people!
What has been the biggest challenge of performing research?
The biggest challenge for me with performing research in Brazil is not being familiar with the climate myself. Being a climate scientist, I like being personally familiar with the types of climate phenomena the region experiences. But this research presents itself as a unique opportunity for me to learn about the Brazilian climate and culture, in a way I never would have if I was not involved in this project.
What’s one thing you’ve learned while participating in this project?
That research is definitely multi- and inter- disciplinary! It's almost impossible to conduct meaningful research without the help of colleagues from different departments and disciplines.
Why do you think this project is important?
Understanding the science behind anthropogenic change is necessary for this region where land cover has been removed. Hopefully, we will be able to apply climate science to promote climate services within this region in order to help the people living there.