Future Water Priorities for the Nation

Solving problems related to use of water resources will be of paramount importance in coming decades as increasing pressure from growing populations, climate change, extreme weather, and aging water-related infrastructure threaten water availability and quality. The Water Mission Area (WMA) of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has a long-established reputation for collecting and delivering high-quality, unbiased scientific information related to the nation's water resources. WMA observations help inform decisions ranging from rapid responses during emergencies such as hurricanes, floods, and forest fires, to the long-term management of water resources. Produced at the request of USGS, this report identifies the nation's highest-priority water science and resources challenges over the next 25 years. Future Water Priorities for the Nation summarizes WMA's current water science and research portfolio, and recommends strategic opportunities for WMA to more effectively address the most pressing challenges. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Introduction 2 Water Science and Resources Challenges for the Next 25 Years 3 Priority Questions and Recommendations References Appendix A: The U.S. Geological Survey Water Mission Area Appendix B: Biographical Sketches of Committee Members and Staff Appendix C: People Who Provided Input to the Committee Appendix D: Prioritization Rubric