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Show tions are compared with the established scope of the powers of Congress, it is clear that the de- cisions to be made are within its legislative discretion. As an aid to legislative consideration, the Com- mission has set forth those major objectives which it deems should be adopted as a unified national policy in order to derive maximum usefulness from the Nation's land and water resources. Whatever the language used in a legislative statement of such a policy, the fundamental principles finally adopted should be so specific as to leave no doubt as to the legislative intent. At- tainment of those objectives will be better insured if the agencies made responsible for their accomplishment are positively certain of the congressional purpose. An additional need for clarity arises from the fact that administration of the legislation will be unavoidably complex. Many rights are to be safeguarded, and many obligations are to be ful- filled; there are variations in the land and water resources to be developed, utilized, and con- served so as better to serve the needs of the Nation; and a number of agencies with going organiza- tions and accumulated experience will be affected. Finally, the legislation should promote cooperation by all concerned in the preservation of the vital interests of present and future generations. RECOMMENDATIONS The Commission suggests that consideration of its recommendations be divided into three stages. The first need not and should not be delayed by the other two. 1. So far as practicable, the recommendations should be considered together. To this end, the Commission will prepare and submit proposed legislation. This proposal will consist in the main of a statement of principles and policies together with provisions requiring their applica- tion to all affected Federal activities irrespective of the agency or agencies concerned. 2. In harmony with such a unification of Federal policy, many implementing revisions should be made in existing law to eliminate a century's accumulation of conflicts, duplications, and gaps. Precision will again be required to insure the ultimate in coordination. Extensive research will be necessary and the final legislation will be extremely detailed. A foundation for the undertaking of this task is set forth in volume 3 of the Commission's report. 3. Separate treatment is preferable for con- sideration of the Commission's recommendation respecting waterborne transportation. Here, formulation of a unified transportation policy will be necessary to permit efficient utilization of waterways in combination with other modes of transportation. While it has been suggested that the task be divided into three stages, in no event should such division preclude prompt consideration of the first. Delay means waste. The problems have been fully outlined, and the urgency of the situa- tion is apparent. The Commission advocates basin-wide development for optimum beneficial use of river systems and their watersheds. It is for Congress to decide what should be done. 303 |
