The flexibility of water resource management

Abstract

This study examines the proposition that present water allocation procedures, based on predictions of future resource and social conditions, are too flexible to deal adequately with real-time conditions.

An analysis of legislation and current management practice showed that management procedures are flexible. A range of mechanisms are available to water resource managers and users, that allow responses to changes in resource conditions or its preferred use. Limitations to the use of the mechanisms, or to any more flexible management approaches, were apparent, however. These included the costs of responding to changes, the judicial interpretation of the Water and Soil Conservation Act, and the aversion of many users to risk. They also included inadequacies in the decision-making structure - thus, a further conclusion is that if flexibility is to be used to help attain social goals, then the nature of the political system in which the management operates must be representative of all.

Furthermore, changes to the legislation and to the agencies managing water resources seem likely in the future. The importance of flexibility must be recognised, and provisions for it kept in the resulting form of management.