ABSTRACT
In most countries, a single “beach manager” who undertakes all the activities such as monitoring, planning and decision-making does not exist. These activities are generally devolved among different persons and authorities at various levels (national, federal, regional, provincial, local). In order to achieve effective management of recreational water use areas, managers should have background knowledge on a range of aspects concerned with the coastal or freshwater area, such as inflows and outflows, water quality, physical aspects of the water use area and potential health hazards. Beach managers should, therefore, be aware of the social and economic dimension embedded in their decision-making. Of importance to beach managers and decision-makers are:
The techniques available to measure the impact of tourism. Notions and principles of sustainability. Local strategies towards sustainability. Sustainability indicators and issues related to water quality management. Water analysis and water safety.
