A future mission to be launched in 2001 has an instrument that can directly detect water in the top meter or two from orbit. It does so my measuring gamma rays and high energy neutrons emitted from the surface. There is more interesting data than we have time to think about. Many of the predicted mineral are simply not there, which dramatically changes are view of Mars. The most important natural resource that people often take for granted is water.
Water is needed to humans, plants and animals.
It can also be used to produce oxygen and fuel. Without abundant water we would have a dificult time landing people on Mars or colonizing the planet. When do you think men and women will make it to mars. I think that we will land people on Mars some time in the next century. Perhaps in as early as 20 or so years, but maybe not for 50 years.