Incorporation of environmental flows in water allocation in Texas.

An institutional framework and supporting water availability modelling capabilities are presented for integrating ecological needs into water resources management. Concepts illustrated by the Texas experience are relevant worldwide. Environmental flow standards with subsistence, base, in-bank pulse and over-bank flow components are established through a legislatively mandated process by stakeholder committees and science teams working in collaboration with government agencies. The flow standards incorporate ecosystem needs into water allocation and associated water availability modelling. Recognizing the complexities of defining and preserving environmental stream flows, expedited present action is combined with an adaptive management process for future improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]