ABSTRACT
Water resources systems management is an iterative process of integrated decision-making regarding the uses and modifications of waters and related lands within a geographic region. This process provides a chance for users to balance their diverse needs and uses of water as an environmental resource, and to consider how their cumulative actions may affect the long-term sustainability of water and related land resources. The management of water resources systems penetrates deeply into the social structure at every level. Many water-related activities require a demonstration of responsibility by each member of different social organizations. Water resources systems management requires use of the engineering, social, natural, ecological and economic sciences. Common goals for water and land resources must be developed among people of diverse social backgrounds and values. Human modifications of waters and related lands directly alter the delivery of water, sediments and nutrients, and thus fundamentally alter aquatic systems.
