Crude Oil Transport in the Great Lakes Region: A Wicked Problem

Session: 44. - Unrefined Hydrocarbon Transport in the Great Lakes Basin

Dale Bergeron, MN Sea Grant, [email protected]
Rochelle Sturtevant, GLERL/NOAA, Sea Grant Extension, [email protected]
Katherine Bunting-Howarth, NY Sea Grant, [email protected]

Abstract

First coined in 1973 (Rittel and Webber) in the context of social policy as problems in which (1) the solution depends on how the problem is framed and vice versa, (2) stakeholders have radically different frames for understanding the problem, (3) constraints and resources needed to solve it change over time and (4) the problem is never solved definitively.  Wicked problems are difficult to resolve because they are dynamic, involve complex interdependencies and include diverse stakeholders with contradictory requirements.    The transport of crude oil transport through the Great Lakes represents a wicked problem in that multiple industries and stakeholders with different world views and priorities must come together to find a solution.  Crude oil travels through the Great Lakes Basin (GLB) in unprecedented quantities and domestic crude production has been increasing over the last decade. Crude oil production has begun to outpace pipeline capacity putting increasing pressure on other forms of transportation, rail, truck and barge. Increased safety concerns related to these alternative transportation modes, aging and inadequate infrastructure compounds stress on the system.  There are multiple potential threats to the environment and human health associated with an accident.

1. Keyword
transportation

2. Keyword
environmental policy

3. Keyword
regional analysis