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<br /> <br />Another major objective' of the State of Louisiana in regards to <br />water resources is the rendering of the ~ed River as a navigable water- <br />way. Economic development in the resource rich segment of the state known <br />, as Northwest Louisiana can be facilitated through the provision of water- <br />00 borne commerce. The Red River is one of this area's greatest assets, but <br />~ in its present condition is unsuitable as a transportation artery. For <br />~ these reasons, the state of Louisiana has aS'a goal the development of <br />the Red River Waterway Project. <br /> <br />I <br /> <br />I <br /> <br />I <br /> <br />The water resources of Louisiana are also viewed as elements for <br />both recreation an tourism. Louisianians intend to emphasize con- <br />s,ervation and innovation in the development of its water resources for <br />the enjoyment of its citizens and as attractions to out-of-state visitors. <br /> <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />" <br />, ' <br /> <br /> <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br />I <br /> <br />Key Water Problems <br /> <br />While the Red River has been identified as one of the greatest assets <br />of the Louisiana portion of ASA 1107, it also presents a multitude of <br />problems. One of the primary problems associated with the Red River <br />is naturally high chloride quantities. This renders it unfit for most <br />uses without extensive treatment. It also presents flooding problems <br />periodically as well as eroding away valuable agricultural lands. The <br />sedimentation not only harms the fish and wildlife.'production but makes <br />the river unattractive as a recreational water. It is felt that bank <br />stabilization measures associated with the Red River Waterway project <br />will help remedy erosion and sedimentation problems presently in <br />existence. <br /> <br />Another key water issue in this portion of Louisiana is the limited <br />availability of high quality groundwater. Water is seldom found in <br />quantities sufficient for large pumpages. This problem hinders large <br />water using industrial development and in some instances proves trouble- <br />some to municipalities. There will be an increased reliance on surface <br />water in this area if economic development is to continue. For this <br />reason both man-made and natural pollution will have to be stemmed. <br />Also, water transfers within the region may have to be studied in the <br />future as well as the need for industry to increase reuse of water. <br /> <br />A key institutional issue in Northwestern Louisiana is the failure of <br />the states contained in the Red River Basin to come to terms on an <br />Interstate Compact. The absence of an agreement on the apportionment <br />of Red River waters leaves doubt as to what future supplies will actually <br />be available. <br /> <br />26 <br />