Water Resources in the Future: Directions and Prospects

Future policies must be directed towards the integrated management of whole water systems and regions. Resources for the Future, with the help of others, is now undertaking broad-scale research on such an approach to the management of the management of the Lower Delaware River and estuary. In this effort, atmospheric and hydrologic models are linked with economic models, under a variety of assumptions as to (e.g.) population, water use of amounts, and water quality standards, to be able to shed light on the ways in which the total system can be managed effectively to achieve stipulated objectives. Attention is being given to the need for new institutions through which more effective management can be achieved, at the same time, not overlooking the need for political leadership and citizen participation and consensus. If water systems could be managed in an integrated and purposeful way, it appears that the nation might be able to stretch water supplies much farther than anyone has contemplated hitherto, and at the same time provide for a much less polluted water environment.