I ntelligent use and management of water resources are required to ensure sufficient, quality water for public use and future development of industry and agriculture in the basin of the Red River of the North. There is a great need to care for the supplies available and identify the various management options available.
Water quality is as important as quantity.
The quality of water resources in the basin must be determined with respect to potential contaminants, thus establishing a baseline for future use. Once a baseline is established, changes in water quality can be monitored and solutions to problems encountered can be determined. This program was developed to establish a consortium of industries, municipalities, and other regional entities in partnership with state and federal governments to address important issues that may impact the area's water resources. A watershed management program such as this responds to environmental and water quantity concerns with technical solutions while allowing for community and economic development.