Water Resources Management - Practices of Irrigation and On-farm Water Management - page 150

- identification of building block method reaches and sites
- description of natural and present daily flow regime
- analysis of stage-discharge curve
The objective of the exchange of opinions among different experts is to identify and
conclude on the recommended flows for the river. The experts should visit the site.
Attention should be given to the flow features that are considered most important
for maintaining or achieving the desired state of the river. These flow features are
the building blocks which are constructed to create the in-stream flow requirements.
Required flows are identified month-wise, considering low and high flows.
In final stage, recommended flow regimes are integrated with engineering con-
cerns for the river. Two or three possible flow states with probable economic and
social consequences are developed.
The building block method is costly for data collection and employment of
experts. The final selection is dependent on professional judgment and experience.
5.3 Strategies for Water Resources Management
Strategies for water resources management can be broadly categorized into two
classes:
(a) Demand management, and
(b) Supply management
5.3.1 Demand Side Management
5.3.1.1 Concept
Demand management options refer the actions that influence the use of water after
the entry point. Demand side management is commonly implemented together with
a water conservation program. Water conservation is generally accepted to mean
“the minimization of loss or waste, the preservation, care and protection of water
resources and the efficient and effective use of water.” Demand side management
involves a broad range of measures that aim to increase the efficiency of water use.
Demand management may be defined as the adaptation and implementation of a
strategy by a water institution to influence the water demand and usage in order
to meet any of the following objectives: economic efficiency, social development,
social equity, environmental protection, sustainability of water supply and services
and political acceptability.
5.3.1.2 Different Approaches of Demand Management
The measures for demand management can include the following:
- conservation-oriented rate structures
- leak reduction program