4.5: Regional Planning and Regulation

Utilize the planning and regulatory powers of a regional governmental authority, the Delaware River Basin Commission, to facilitate coordination and cooperation.

Other Information:

Coordinating federal and state agencies within the Basin. The Delaware River Basin Commission is a federal-interstate agency, established by compact to manage water resources within the Basin. One purpose of the Commission is to coordinate the management of a common regional resource that was previously subject to administration by 43 state agencies, 14 interstate agencies and 19 federal agencies. Managing water resources pursuant to a comprehensive plan. The compact authorizes the Commission to develop and adopt, after public hearing and with input from the states and their political subdivisions, a comprehensive plan for the immediate and long-range development and use of the water resources of the Basin. The Commission should use its Comprehensive Plan to coordinate the goals and activities of government agencies, and to guide and where appropriate, regulate private activities. Using the Commission’s multi-faceted authority to assist and administer water resources in an integrated manner. The Commission is uniquely placed to integrate and provide consistency among federal, state and regional water resource programs. The Commission’s Compact grants broad powers in areas of water supply, pollution control, flood protection, watershed management (including soil conservation and fish and wildlife habitats), recreation, hydroelectric power and surface and ground water withdrawals and diversions. Leading by example and guidance as well as through regulation. The Commission should use its planning authority and leadership to educate, partner with other public and private entities, and demonstrate how water resources can be wisely managed. Where coordinated efforts are important, the Commission should explore utilizing regulatory mechanisms such as setting performance standards that allow states, political subdivisions and private parties maximum flexibility to select the methods to meet the standards.

Objective(s):

4.5.A: Comprehensive Plan

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