Water resources planning and management in the United States federal system: long term assessment and intergovernmental issues

The allocation of responsibilities between the U.S. national government and the states and their local governments is discussed as it applies to the nation's water and related natural and environmental resources. The evolution of present policies and improved basis for proposing ways to meet future needs are discussed. The issues considered are: public understanding; capacity of the federal system to meet water needs; the information need for longer term strategy and shorter term tactical needs; the degree of coordination and cooperation needed between the members of the federal system; planning ideas for the federal system; the role of the federal government, state and local governments and federal institutions; and the key elements of a research plan.