Changes in Water Resources Systems:
Methodologies to Maintain Water Security and Ensure Integrated Management
(Proceedings of Symposium HS3006 at IUGG2007, Perugia, July 2007). IAHS Publ. 315, 2007, 276-283.
The puzzle of policy learning in water resources
management
LEON M. HERMANS
Delft University of Technology, Faculty of
Technology, Policy and Management, PO Box 5015, 2600 GA, Delft, The Netherlands
Abstract
Policy learning is essential for the management of complex and changing water
resources systems. However, the lack of genuine interest in policy evaluations
suggests that at best a partial effort is made to enable such learning. This
paper explores this discrepancy, based on a review of current evaluation
practice and literature. This indicates that there is a need for more and for
better evaluations of water policies. Current evaluations are generally limited
to the efficiency and effectiveness of water policy implementation, ignoring
the importance of reviewing the theories underlying the original policies. The
contours of two avenues to deal with limitations and facilitate more innovative
learning in water resources management are identified and discussed.
Key
words
adaptive management; evaluation; policy analysis; policy learning; water
policy; water resources systems