Groundwater management: The search for practical approaches

This report gives a brief diagnosis of the nature of current groundwater use and management practices and sets a path for a more practical approach. The limits of conventional water management are discussed and the prospects for expanding the repertoire of management tools for groundwater are examined. The roles of research, dissemination of data and integrated water management will continue along with adaptive approaches tuned to local settings. The United Nations agencies each have a role to play in their respective areas of comparative advantage, but these will need to stem from a heightened appreciation of what can be achieved in practice.