Number: RL34580
Title: Drought in the United States: Causes and Issues for Congress
Authors: Peter Folger, Betsy A. Cody, and Nicole T. Carter, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: This report discusses how drought is defined (e.g., why drought in one region of the country is different from drought in a different region), and why drought occurs in the United States. It briefly discusses periods of drought in the country's past that equaled or exceeded drought conditions experienced during the 20th century, including periods during earlier centuries where the American West was substantially drier, on average, than it is today. This is followed by a discussion of the prospects for a future climate in the West that may be drier than the average 20th century climate - perhaps similar to drier periods centuries ago. The report concludes with a discussion of policy challenges for Congress, such as the existing federal/non-federal split in drought response and management, and the patchwork of drought programs subject to oversight by multiple congressional committees. These policy challenges may become increasingly more difficult to address in the face of a changing climate that could exacerbate drought conditions in some regions of the country.
Pages: 17
Date: Updated July 15, 2008