Highlights of Drought Policy and Related Science in Australia and the U.S.A.

Authors

David H. White, ASIT Consulting, Canberra, ACT, Australia
Donald A. Wilhite, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Bruce O’Meagher, Department of Industry, Science and Resources, Canberra, ACT, Australia
Graeme L. Hammer, Agricultural Production Systems Research Unit, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia

Date of this Version

2001

Citation

Published in Water International 26:3 (September 2001), pp. 349–357

Comments

Copyright © 2001 International Water Resources Association. Used by permission.

Abstract

Patterns of water supply and use in Australia and the U.S.A. differ in many ways. This results in different perceptions concerning the nature of drought and policy approaches to its management. This paper discusses the differences and similarities and explores lessons that policy makers in both countries can learn from one another. A key difference between the two countries is that whereas drought is perceived in Australia essentially in terms of its impact on agriculture, in the U.S. both perceptions and policy are also heavily influenced by the impact of drought on urban communities. This has led to different policy emphases. In 1992 Australia established its National Drought Policy; the U.S. is presently considering the adoption of a national drought policy. These policies highlight drought being accepted as part of natural climate variability, rather than as a natural disaster. They also emphasize the protection of the natural resource base.