ABSTRACT
We trust that the discussion in previous chapters has made clear that B A C K G R O U N D the prospect of massive energy development cannot be regarded as an unmitigated boon in the Southwest-especially from the point of view of its present residents. It will strain existing public institutions which may prove inadequate to deal with its ill effects; it will, even should the best efforts to avoid them be undertaken, have destructive effects on an environment which is deceptively delicate; and it will make major demands on a resource (water) that is already in short supply. Given these circumstances, the present population of the region could be expected to put every possible obstacle in the way of such development unless the economic benefits to the region are large.
