Recommendations and Conclusion

Is small-scale automation sustainable? We think so, but only time will tell. Important keys to the survivability of the innovations include: (1) active participation by the end user's staff with design, installation, and maintenance, and (2) the end users providing a consistent level of funding. It is critical that the end users be involved at all levels. This will necessitate redefining jobs. For example, a river commissioner will need to evolve from a gate turner/strip-chart reader to a telecommunication/computer specialist. This transition will not always be easy.

From experiences in the western United States, P.R. China, and Malaysia, the following observations can be made: (1) it is difficult to operate a project 24/7 (24 hours/day; 7 days/week) in manual mode; (2) many river systems, watersheds, and irrigation systems around the Pacific Rim are over allocated; and (3) on many projects, automation can substantially reduce operating expenses and enhance water management.