Masters Theses

Date of Award

12-1984

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Planning

Major Professor

George E. Bowen

Committee Members

David Johnson, Joseph Prochaska

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis was to contribute to a better understanding of the problems and solutions presently confronting water quality planning and management in Tennessee. It was based on the research findings of an earlier study which defined the basic water quality problems in the state. This thesis attempted to further rank these problems and identify the best possible means of resolving them as perceived by those who administer water quality operations and regulations.

The survey group was selected from the Water Resource Research Center mailing list based on the following criteria: their geographical area; whom they represented; and their willingness to participate. A total of three rounds of questionnaires were mailed out in two phases utilizing the survey technique known as the Delphi Process. Their responses to water quality problems and solutions were then compared with those recommendations advanced by the governor's Safe Growth Team in an effort to highlight the similarities and differences of opinion regarding these issues.

Results from the first round of questionnaires indicated that of the ten most serious water quality problems, six were related to nonpoint source pollution, although the lack of funds was consistently ranked the highest priority problem. The second and third round questionnaires were aimed at identifying the most effective and feasible means of resolving these problems. A Policy Value Index score was calculated for each solution which indicated the likelihood of implementing the proposed solutions. Comparing the recommendations of the survey group with those of the Safe Growth Team revealed a number of similarities in terms of resolving these problems.

With Tennessee now having more authority, as well as more financial responsibility in maintaining water quality standards, a realistic commitment to the protection of this resource must be initiated. It is hoped that this research will help inspire such a commitment.

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