An Institutional Analysis of the Water Allocation Process in South Dakota as it Relates to the Designation of Wild, Scenic and Recreational Rivers

South Dakota’s system of water allocation I general, of which river designations are a part, affect groups with preferences concerning the use of water resources. This study’s main hypotheses is that groups with preferences concerning river designations will have their preferences affected, it is expected, by the make-up of the system. For example, both water development and preservation interests wish a water allocation system which facilitates them in pursuing their preferences. According to the Department of Natural Resource Development. “…the Legislature can aid water development in South Dakota…through the alteration of expansion of administrative institutions and arrangements.” On the pro-designation side, the Department of Wildlife, Parks and Forestry recommends “… to proceed toward a more realistic and workable system of wild, scenic and recreational rivers in South Dakota, consistent with the intent of the Legislature and the Water Resources Management Act.” This study will show the effects of various designation decision systems on several special interest groups and on river designations and river preservation. This information will aid these groups in deciding what type of decision process will best facilitate their preferences. An institutional approach utilizing a structure-conduct-performance model will be used to analyze the effects of the various designation systems. The study will describe the existing water allocation structure in South Dakota