Water shortages have become increasingly serious natural resource problems in recent years. In most cases local water systems are responsible for programs to reduce individual water use. The effectiveness of these organizations is related to their ability to obtain information and assistance from other organizations at the local, state, and federal levels. This paper examines the experiences of 28 local water systems in North Carolina in responding to water shortage. Results are based on detailed personal interviews with the main decision maker for each water system. Obstacles to effective water management are evaluated. Sources of information and assistance are identified. Attitudes of respondents about their experiences are analyzed. Smaller systems were found to face more problems in coping with water shortage. They are also in greater need of assistance and information from outside organizations.
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