Foreword: The history of water resources in the United States is long and complicated. The issues are complex and will no doubt remain that way, for problems dealing with water quality and quantity are not always easily resolvable. They involve overlapping jurisdictional, technological, and political questions. For more than forty years, Professor Maass has attempted to rationalize water management in such a way as to provide needed benefits in a cost effective manner. He has heavily influenced the Corps and other water agencies, both federal and non-federal.
This interview and the accompanying articles provide an overview of Professor Maass’s thoughts and insights into the evolution of his ideas. As we look toward the 21st century, it is important to keep in mind the steps that we have taken in the last half of this century to resolve our water problems. Professor Maass has been in the forefront of these efforts.
