The Minimum Network

In the early stages of development of a hydrological network, the first step should be the establishment of a minimum network. Such a network should be composed f the minimum number of stations which the collective experience of hydrological agencies of many countries has indicated to be necessary to initiate planning for the economic development of the water resources. The minimum network is one that will avoid serious deficiencies in developing and maintain water resources as a scale comm nssrate with the overall level of economic development of the country. It should be developed as rapidly as possible by incorporating existing stations as appropriate. In other words, a minimum network will provide the basic framework for network expansion to meet future needs for specific purposes. It is emphasized that a minimum network will not be adequate for the formulation of detailed development plans and will not meet the numerous requirements of a developed region for the operation of projects and the management of water resources.