Hydrological information systems for integrated water resources management : WHYCOS Guidelines

Water is one of the most highly valued natural resources. It exerts an enormous influence on a nation's economy, and almost every aspect of development is closely linked to the proper utilization of water. It is the key element for both environmental conservation and economic development and as such should be managed through an integrated approach to land use, water supply and waste management. With due attention to all the parallel uses of water in nature and society, as well as the evident linkages between upstream land, water use and downstream opportunities, the most evident unit of such integration should be the catchment or river basin.