The Need for Integrated National Water Actions

Testimony of Dr. Peter H. Gleick
Before the Legislative Hearing of the
House Committee on Science and Technology of the
United States Congress

On 21st Century Water Planning:
The Need for Integrated National Water Actions

Mr. Chairman, Representatives: I would like to thank the Committee for inviting me to offer comments on the critical issue of 21st century water planning in the United States. The water crisis around the nation is growing and the need for better and more coordinated responses is urgent. We have long known that we need coordinated federal planning for water; but such coordination remains an elusive goal. And new water challenges such as climate change, new pollutants, and decaying infrastructure face the nation.

My written testimony will address three issues:

1. The kinds of water challenges we face at the national level and the kinds of responses we need,

2. Some specific thoughts about the proposed legislation sponsored by Congressman Gordon of Tennessee (HR 1145, entitled the “National Water Research and Development Initiative Act of 2009.”), and

3. The need for additional federal policies and legislation not directly addressed by this legislation.