Taking Groundwater usage and control into the New Millenium

Changes in weather patterns are affecting the environment of many countries and the lives of its citizens. Many communities are experiencing unexpected climatic changes, as they move from unprecedented droughts to devastating floods, threatening to ruin the entire economy.

For this reason, the management of water has become a national priority in most countries. The effective control and management of water is of interest to all and can only be achieved through public co-operation.

The aim of water resource management is to reduce the resulting damage to life and property as a result of flooding on the one hand and as water shortages occur more often and with more drastic consequences, the possible impact of droughts must be identified and measures taken to minimise them.

Excessive over-pumping of groundwater creates significant problems, such as increased well drilling and pumping costs. Water quality also suffers because groundwater pumped from greater depths contains more salts and minerals. In areas of severe groundwater depletion, the earth's surface may also subside, causing cracks or fissures that can damage roads or building foundations and other underground structures.

Recognizing that continued depletion of finite groundwater supplies threatens prosperity and quality of life, countries have to create a framework to manage the water supply for the future.

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