Laws and Policies

The Water Resources Division operates under a long list of laws and policies. NPS Management Policies and Directors Orders reflect the influence of multiple federal laws that dictate how natural resources—including water—will be managed. In addition, the NPS has established priorities, preferences, and specific guidance where it is in the bureau's discretion to do so.

Please review the laws and policies on these pages to learn more about how and why we manage water resources in the NPS. As always, please contact us if you have any questions.

Laws

Policies