ABSTRACT

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the rehabilitation and sustainable management of water resources in the Americas, especially the planning and modification of dams, rivers, lakes, sewers, harbors, and domestic water supplies. It examines the experience with water projects in North and South America. The book describes the ecological requirements for sustainable dams and waste-water systems. It explores the economic and ecological justification for restoring American rivers and estuaries to their original wholesome ecology. The book presents operational aspects of water resource management, as well as considerations for watershed associations of citizens to participate in financing and enforcing restoration programs. From the story of Creation in the scriptures of the Hebrew people – as in many other Creation stories – the message is clear that the Creator put the life in the waters.