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Show recommendation addressing an identified need is consistent with the state water policies identified in the 1990 State Water Plan. Previous water- related studies conducted by state and federal agencies in the Jordan River Basin have provided important information on the resources and, in some cases, alternative water development plans. The studies used in preparing this report are listed by number in Section B. The Jordan River Basin Plan is prepared at a reconnaissance level, with a general assessment of problems and demands, and their location. Basin planning is a continuous process, and the plan is flexible to allow for future revisions. Water management, protection of water quality, and conservation needs are delineated, and all potential uses are considered. It is intended that the formulation and implementation of a basin plan will provide a balance of environmental, economic, social and political factors. Over the years, many water supply projects have been built by private individuals, ( non- profit) irrigation companies, incorporated municipalities and other water users. The state and federal government have participated in water development within the basin. Future water projects will be required due to the increasing demand for water along the Wasatch Front caused by population increases. 3.2 Planning Guidelines The State Water Plan describes the basic premises and lays the foundation for state water planning. This insures continuity so individual basin plans will be consistent with the statewide plan and with each other. To be flexible and accommodate changes in needs and circumstances, review and revision of the plan will be a continual process. This will provide opportunities for all state and federal agencies, local government entities, organizations and individuals to present their concerns. 3.2.1 Principles Many uses and interests are involved in preparing a basin plan. Certain guiding principles are also considered, namely: • All waters, whether surface or subsurface, are held in trust by the state as public property, and their use is subject to rights administered by the State Engineer. The prior appropriation doctrine has governed Utah water law since before statehood. • Water is essential to life. Utah residents have the responsibility to maintain or improve water quality to meet the needs of the generations that will follow. • The diverse present and future interests of Utah's residents should be protected through a balance of economic, social, aesthetic and ecological values. • Public water uses for which it is difficult to identify specific beneficiaries, such as recreation and aesthetics, should be included in the water planning and development process. • Public input is vital to water resource planning. • All residents of the state are encouraged to conserve water and implement wise water use practices. • Water rights owners are entitled to transfer their rights under free market conditions. • Water resource projects should be technically, economically and environmentally sound. • Water planning and management activities of local, state and federal agencies should be coordinated. • Local governments, with state assistance as appropriate, are responsible for protecting against emergency events such as floods and droughts. • Designated water uses and quality should be improved or maintained unless there is evidence the loss is outweighed by other benefits. • Educating Utahns about water is essential. Effective planning and management requires a broad- based citizen understanding of water's physical characteristics, potential uses and scarcity. 3.2.2 Purpose The main purpose of this basin plan is to inventory existing resources, assess existing conditions, identify issues, and describe potential development alternatives for meeting the water needs of future generations. The State Water Plan and river basin plans can provide guidance and help coordinate 3- 2 |