ABSTRACT
This chapter synthesises characteristics of global principles for best practice water resource planning. The chapter summarises how these are addressed through a logical framework and systematic approach to provide guidance along the often bumpy road, strewn with potholes and obstacles, to achieve sustainable outcomes. It identifies features that should be targeted for improvement and for further research in this area. A prerequisite and overarching first guideline for good water resource planning is legislation and policy that establishes Integrated and participatory governance for water resource planning and management. The importance of monitoring and review of the effectiveness of management actions in individual plans in achieving objectives cannot be overstated. Well-structured monitoring and evaluation can be cost effective in adapting to changing circumstances and knowledge and in improving the return on investment by governments and the community into water resource management.
