Gustava Curtin is a graduate student in the Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences (NRES) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a research assistant at the Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS). As part of the Illinois Water Inventory Program (IWIP), Gustava helps collect and analyze data on water use and withdrawals across the state. Her work supports aquifer recharge studies, water use planning, and environmental impact research. With a background in geography, field mapping, and even park ranger experience, she brings a unique perspective to understanding the role of place in water management.
Q&A with Gustava Curtin
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role at PRI?
A: I work at IWIP at ISWS, which tracks water use and withdrawals across Illinois. This data helps with aquifer recharge comparisons, water use planning, and environmental impact assessments. I gather information from water operators statewide and cross-check archives with building permit data and municipal GIS records to research wells. Before this, I worked in an ISWS lab, conducted mapping projects across the country, and served as a park ranger. I'm also pursuing a master’s degree in NRES.
Q: What drew you to your area of work or study?
A: Trying to understand place in all its complex relationships. My undergraduate degree is in Geography, where I studied the physical, human, and temporal factors that define a place and influence each other in both subtle and significant ways. The influence of place is a critical factor in water research. If someone hands you a glass of water, what’s the first question you ask? Usually, “Where is it from?” Place matters!
Q: What tools are indispensable to your work?
A: Email, maps, phones, and databases.
Q: What advice would you give to those just starting out in your field?
A: If you're curious about whether a particular career is the right fit, volunteer. Living a day in the life answers so many questions you wouldn’t necessarily think to ask.
Q: What do you do in your free time?
A: My spouse and I have three young kids, so most of my time outside of work is spent managing our collective lives! When we have free time, I try to bring them into my hobbies—traveling, cooking, hiking, reading, gardening, and DIY home projects.