Water Management: the Government, the Community, and their Perception (2014)

Undergraduate: Portia Polk

Faculty Advisor: Rudolf Colloredo-Mansfeld
Department: Anthropology

---

Perceptions of water and water quality are emerging as one of the leading health and environmental issues in developing countries. Although most nations have a high dependency on water for life, issues arise when we compare the role of the government and the role of the community in providing clean water for everyday use. Polemical still is the feeling of autonomy that individuals feel they have in providing clean water for themselves and their families. In San Miguel, a rural community in Panama, there are varying degrees of concern and understanding of the quality of water.

Ultimately, I will answer the following question: Does gender and the way an individual perceives water influence sentiments towards control of water and maintenance of water systems? In answering this question, I will address the role of the local government in providing clean water. Because water infrastructure is individualized in San Miguel, the family structure and gender roles play a large part in water provisions. The intersectionality of any of these roles influences a person¿s relationship with water management and affects their ability and the perception of their ability to provide clean water for their family. Throughout this discussion, I will incorporate man of the projects and experiences that I had while doing water testing in Panama.