Water Use and Land Use Are Deeply Intertwined

Although land use and water planning decisions have historically been made by separate agencies, the Water Foundation's Mike Myatt argues that more comprehensive, intersectional planning is crucial to developing sustainable and equitable policies for the future.

With water challenges facing more and more communities, many of them low-income and rural, an integrated framework is crucial for making policy decisions that address climate change, restore ecosystems, ensure safe and accessible drinking water, and create long-term employment that supports local economies. Supporting capacity-building and leadership training at all levels can "generate more democratic, responsive, and effective water institutions" and give a stronger voice to communities whose needs often go unheard.

A number of resources by researchers, advocates, and community groups share recommendations for adapting government decision-making to a more comprehensive model that takes into account climate change, environmental justice, and historical inequities in land and water policies. Recommendations include technical assistance in more languages, leadership building and investment in community organizations, and transparency that lets people understand the true effects of land use and water policies in their communities.