Rationale for Public Involvement. Reclamation successfully serves the public, if the publics' concerns are considered in implementing programs. By consistently being open, fair, and honest, a public involvement process fosters both legitimacy and credibility. The public may not completely agree with the final decision, but they may more likely support the action as a result of being involved in such a process. Public involvement ensures that Reclamation is accountable to its customers and stakeholders.
Public involvement is a conscious process requiring order and intent.
An open, fair, and participatory public involvement process helps Reclamation accomplish its agency and project-specific missions. Reclamation must incorporate partnerships, where applicable, to manage water and land resources effectively. Reclamation should ensure the adequacy of public involvement for activities in which the agency is involved. Public involvement must be appropriate to the specific situation and circumstances and must be incorporated into the decision-making process as soon as the need for action is recognized. The public involvement approach must be selected based on the nature of the issues and the public affected, which vary by location, program, and action.