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For more information on water availability assessment and climate data interpretation, contact Sarah Tufford at 612/ 297-2431. For more information on LABS, contact Doug Thomas at 612/297-5617. analysis and water availability assessments to support water supply planning for wise use of groundwater and surface water. The DNR is requesting one staff position to compile and interpret data about aquifers, compile information about each basin, and to prepare reports assessing trends in water demand in relation to the estimated available supply. The determination of consequences. of different levels of withdrawal would allow decision-makers at all levels of government to make development decisions consistent with water availability. This effort is particularly urgent in view of the projected rapid expansion and large population growth for the Twin. Cities Metropolitan Area. Climate Data Interpretation (DNR) Climate data interpretation is needed in connection with the effort to assess water availability; therefore, the department is requesting one position to provide precipitation data and interpretation for studies of recharge to groundwater. The additional position is needed to support additional compilation and interpretations of climate data for water resources studies, particulazly recharge studies in connection with the demand for information on water availability and trends. This effort represents a new direction for the DNR to estimate the sustainable volume of water available for use. In conjunction with the staff position, funds are requested (to be matched by the United States Geological Survey) to investigate rates of recharge in various terrains and using new scientific methods. The work will lead to a more precise estimate of available water supply. Focal Government Annual Reporting System (CARS) (BWSR) It has been very difficult to assess overall environmental improvements resulting from local water resource efforts. Funding would be used by the Boazd of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), in cooperation with the MPCA, MDA, and the federal Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS), to put in place the CARS data base, providing a consistent format for local governments to track and report on water and land management activities. This would allow systematic estimation of pollutant reductions and cost-effectiveness for an array of BMPs, and make the resulting information readily available to state policy makers. Community Technical Assistance and Education The purpose of this interagency initiative is to help local communities participate more effectively in management of the environment and natural resources. Funding is requested for field personnel, whose 8