Water Availability Assessment Report

The availability of water to meet the state's needs is determined by three basic factors; climate and global weather patterns, human changes to flow pathways and water use, and human changes to water quality . In Minnesota, we have little ability to affect climate and global weather patterns, but we have great ability to affect how we change flow pathways and water use, and our land use choices that can affect water quality. In order to address the long-term sustainability and availability of our water and natural resources, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) must necessarily engage in long-term thinking and planning efforts. Minnesota Statutes, 103G.265 requires the DNR to provide for an assurance of water supply as follows: The commissioner shall develop and manage water resources to assurean adequate supply to meet long-range seasonal requirements for domestic