On Water Resources Development in Western China

The status quo of water and land resources in the west area of China is described.It is pointed out that the success for social and economic development of the region depends on water resources development and utilization.Three issues are discussed.(1)The strategy of sustainable development should be adopted in water resources development.(2)Experiences from previous practices both at home and abroad should be considered,such as experiences in water resources protection,the study on water related strategies,assessment of the impacts of water resources development on ecosystem and environment,and integrated planning for water resources development.(3)High and new science and technology should be adopted in the development and administration of water resources.