Chapter 8
CONCLUSION:
PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER
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he responsibility for making many water-related decisions resides with local leaders. |
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One of the guiding principles behind the preparation of Utah's Water Resources: Planning for the Future is that the responsibility for making many water-related decisions resides with local leaders. Amidst the many issues now facing these leaders, successfully meeting the future water needs of their communities has become a complex and perhaps a frustrating endeavor. To better address these challenges, local decision-makers need to adopt a balanced viewpoint and perspective of the issues. Obtaining this perspective involves educating the public on current water resources issues and seeking their input in the decision-making process. The state of Utah wants these communities to succeed, and, as stated in another of the guiding principles, has defined its role as follows: "The state of Utah's role is to set policy, provide assistance and protect statewide water resource interests." Working together with the public and government agencies with water-related responsibilities, local leaders will have the tools and the support needed to meet the future needs of their communities.
This chapter looks briefly at the important roles of local stakeholders and government agencies with regards to Utah's water resources. Successfully fulfilling these roles will assure a bright and prosperous future for Utah and its natural beauty.
Local Stakeholders:
The Resources' Best Stewards
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Involving all local stakeholders through public meetings or other means is essential to effective resource management.
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Stakeholders in the water resources arena are any individuals or organizations that have an interest or role in water management activities. This includes people who live, work or recreate within the management area as well as local, state and federal agencies. Local stakeholders need to play an important role in the planning and decision-making process within their communities. They are the ones who depend upon the water and other resources for their livelihoods and without whose support water management activities are largely unsuccessful. These individuals are also the ones most likely to be stewards over their resources. Not doing so may impair their ability to sustain themselves and future generations.
Although local stakeholders are key players in water resources planning and management, they often lack the financial resources, technical data, and knowledge of regulation required to identify and implement all elements of an effective water resource management plan. Therefore, some sort of state and federal government role is necessary.
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