New Paradigm for Coordination in Water Industry

Abstract

Without improved coordination of water management, there will be excessive conflict, wasted funds, and unnecessary damage to the environment in the United States. A new paradigm for water‐industry coordination to be implemented within the present institutional climate is proposed with six elements: recognition of the integrated nature of the water industry; a national water‐management report; coordination of water management in geographic areas; national water‐policy studies; coordination of water data and research; and a broad array of education and training programs. Roles are suggested for water‐industry agencies and associations, the educational establishment, private firms, and the local, state and federal governments. The paradigm would meet the need for coordination that has been identified in policy studies, and provide practical mechanisms for comprehensive, coordinated water‐resources planning. Finding better coordination mechanisms is the single most important policy direction for the water industry. This is a shared public‐private responsibility that cannot be resolved by a single national water coordination organization.