Originally published in 1992, this book dispels some of the myths that surround water resource problems of arid lands and the notion that there are simple ‘once and for all’ solutions. Population growth, industrialization, environmental mismanagement and land degradation have led to droughts, poverty and famine with the result that the need for space, food and key natural resources such as water has become the most critical issue in global development.

Nowhere is this crisis more apparent than in arid lands, where water resources provide the key to economic and environmental development. The authors argue that as the arid land environment is highly variable the key to success is flexibility.

The book is divided into four sections, dealing with the geography of the arid realm; the water resource problems they face: the methods available for enhancing water supplies and finally, management of this resource. The book will be of use to undergraduate and postgraduate student and for those actively engaged in the development of arid land water resources.

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