Fall 2025 - 65329 - PA 680PA - Policy Research Project

This course examines the reliance of the US disaster response system on non-state actors. Through collaboration with a non-profit organization that provides assistance to family farmers in Texas, we will explore the disparate impacts of disaster, impact of insurance gaps, adaptive capacity, the federal disaster declaration system, the chronic and cumulative stressors of disasters on farmers, and the characteristics of farmers that do/do not qualify for relief funds. Students will primarily engage in a landscape analysis and inventory of state and federal programs, philanthropic and nonprofit efforts, volunteer and informal networks, and programs designed to reach farmers from marginalized populations. Additionally, we will examine disaster response systems outside of the US, with a focus on non-state actors and assistance for farmers. This course combines broad understanding of multi-actor disaster response networks with student-led analysis relevant for our community partner organization.