A Guide to the Formulation of Water Resources Strategy

This volume outlines the process of formulating a water resources management strategy. It is intended for decision-makers in developing countries. The process that is outlined, while drawn from experience, is general; moreover, it can be used for regional, national, or international strategy formulation. Going through the process of formulating a water resources strategy can contribute to a country ' s ability or capacity to manage its water resoures. The process outlined in this volume incorporates the elements of comprehensive or " holistic " water resources management that have been endorsed by numerous international conferences. These elements include: a) institutional and human resources issues (including laws, regulations, and organizations); b) the development of adequate information systems; c) the participation of those concerned with or having an interest in water resources - " stakeholders " - in the strategy formulation process; d) the use of economic principles (including cost-recovery) in water resources management; e) consideration of the environmental and public health aspects of water resources management; and f) working with other countries or regions to manage international resources successfully.