Engineer Memoirs
As a consequence of these efforts, the capability and capacity of the Corps of Engineers
to return to active development of our water resources has remained intact and is ready
for the work which will appear rapidly as the new Water Resource Development Act
is implemented.
As in the past, the future will have its share of major issues. But unlike the recent
past, the immediate future will be one of getting back to work, of more activity, and of
"doing," and that is exciting. For the longer view, a couple of presently suppressed
issues will surface and must be resolved.
. What is the role of the Federal Government in the Water Resource Field?
Should it not look to the long term needs of our people and development of our
resources? The current policies seem to be concentrated on short term matters.
. How can we upgrade the efficiency of the systems built piecemeal by both
federal and non-federal agencies over the past 50-60 years?
. What is our national water supply plan?
I'm sure more and possibly deeper issues than the above will emerge in the next
decade; however, I doubt that any issue, or combination of issues, will have greater
effect or a more far reaching impact than the environmental and economic concerns of
the public and the resulting national policies adopted by the U.S. government between
1970 and 1980. While the water resource program has been seriously ill during much
of the time since 1970, it has survived and has an excellent chance for full recovery and
good health as we look to the future.
The Corps of Engineers has experienced major changes right along with the water
resources program. The Corps similarly is also enjoying its best health of many years
and is ready and anxious to be a major player in Building Tomorrow-Today. One
thing is clear: The future of the Corps of Engineers and the national water program
continue to be interrelated as they have been for over 200 years of America's growth
and strength. The Corps cares. Essayons!
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