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O~!235 CHAPTER III . REGIONAL AND LOCAL NEEDS o Regional Needs There is a continuing need for the orderly development and juci- cious use of the many resources and attractions of the Gunnison River Basin and adjacent areas. Some of the resources have been exploited, others have been zealously guarded and still others are undeveloped because they are unneeded or lack the necessary economic incentives. The scenic attractions and recreation spots are becoming increasingly popular with local residents and visitors from outside the region. Homes and other housing facilities have been constructed in various localities for retired people and part-time residents. Despite the continuing development of the regions, many localities are economically depressed and are experiencing population decreases and unemployment problems. Much of the unemployment is seasonal and related to labor requirements of agriculture and the summer tourist trade. These localities are in need of developments that will provide a stabilizing influence on their economy. . Large undeveloped areas suitable for recreational, residential and industrial usage now sustain only light incidental use by various forms of wildlife and seasonal grazing of livestock. Although parts of the region contain sizeable tracts of undeveloped arable lands, most of the lands economically suitable for agriculture are now utilized for that purpose. More intensive usage of the irrigated lands of the area is a continuing trend and will encourage establishment of local plants for processing of agricultural products. Although the lower elevation areas of Western Colorado are arid, the high mountains and plateaus receive generous amounts of precipi- tation and are the principal source of flows of the Colorado River. Much of the water is committed to use in or diversion from the Lower Colorado River Basin and large quantities of water are being inter- cepted in the headwater areas and diverted outside the basin. Many proposals and water right filings have been made concerning further diversions to out-of-basin areas. As a result, the competition for water has become very keen. Water supplies now available for use within the drainage basin are generally adequate for present developments. However, there is a need to reserve water supplies for future in-basin development and to prevent further transbasin diversions from unduly damaging the environment. . Dependable and safe supplies of municipal and domestic water have long been a need in many localities. Cities, towns, water con- servancy districts, and small water companies have developed water supplies and constructed pipe systems to the more populous ~