Management Framework for Large-Scale Water Problems

Abstract

Large-scale water problems require management actions by many players, but without coordinated frameworks for action, there will be gridlock, high legal expenses, and conflict-filled decision processes. However, implementing and sustaining coordinated frameworks is extremely difficult. The paper reviews five case studies to identify useful attributes of management frameworks based on inclusivity, process, and control and authority. Neither the management frameworks nor their attributes guarantee success against negative incentives of water industry players, and success also requires water service providers and regulators to take on, in addition to their principal roles, extended water citizenship roles to help solve large-scale problems.