Regionalization in Water Resource Projects

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Abstract
Regionalization is the integration or coordination of the physical, economic. social, informational, orpersonnel structure of water resource projects to better achieve national, regional, and local societal objectives and constraints. Seven degrees of regionalizationare identified in general terms and illustrated with actual project examples. Among the common advantages of regionalization are: cost reduction through economies of scale; internalization of external diseconomies; higherproduct quality; greater public participation; consideration of more alternatives and project impacts; greater certainty in development plans; easier financing; and increased political power. If not adequately planned, however, regional projects may involve: greater external diseconomies; greater overall consequences of system failure; a prolonged planning process; political opposition; and cost sharing impediments. Where implemented, regional projects have shown advantages to far outweigh disadvantages. Societal trends such as the demand for a higher quality product, population growth, increased urbanization, and advances in computer technology, will promote regionalization. Education of participants in the project planning process as to the relative advantages of regionalization is the greatest unmet need.

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