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")' Ir1n ~~~ l&tv. . . Every ground water aquifer differs in many respects from every other. Each river basin has resources and problems which differ from every other. While some general rules and laws could be made applicable to ground water on a state-wide basis, any law adopted should recognize the variations between scientific facts in the different aquifers and basins. The people of each basin should be given the opportunity to conserve, develop and plan the optimum use of its ground water resource. A basin- wide state agency for this purpose either alone, or in conjunction with surface water and other natural resources, should be provided. A study of the papers presented at the Ground Water Section of the Western Resources Conference, Colorado University, August 24 and 25, 1960, demonstrates that the adoption of the doctrine of prior appro- priation in and of itself does not solve the ground water problem. An overall water managem ent program for an entire river basin for both ground and surface water is desirable. The success of any ground water program and the success of efforts to adopt a workable ground water law depend upon public accept- ance and cooperation. Efforts to work out a solution to this problem must be brought down to the local level. The active cooperation of the surface owner, the well owner, and the local community is an absolute prerequisite to success. Summary presentation of established scientific facts should be given to the ground water users, the local businessmen, and community organizations in each area. Programs of this nature should be given in all the critical areas as well as in the entire area in which ground water has been developed. A thorough program of public information should be carried out. Likewise, a procedure should be established whereby the local well owner and ground water user is given an opportunity to present his proposed solution of the problem. Through- out the areas of extensive ground water use, hearings should be held and should be reported for the consideration of the state agencies and the legislature; Competent research in the ground water field as to physical facts, law, economics, and public administration does not of itself secure the adoption of a good ground water program. The need for active participa- tion of the ground water user commencing at the local level on through the various proposed organizational steps must be recognized. Par- ticipants at the Ground Water Section of the Western Resources Conference all emphasized the need of local participation, adequate public knowledge, and wide public support. Any task force to which this problem is assigned should be given adquate means of recording the comments of those who participate. Keeping a record for future reference is imperative. - 7 -