Pub. L. 95-467, tit. II, sec. 201

Sec. 201. The Secretary is authorized and directed to— (a) conduct, encourage, and promote basic scientific research and fundamental studies to develop effective and economical processes and equipment for the purpose of converting impaired water into water suitable for beneficial uses; (b) pursue the findings of research and studies authorized by this title having potential practical applications, including application to matters other than water conversion, and to other supply sources such as brackish waters, staged development, and use with energy sources; (c) conduct engineering and technical work including the design, construction, and testing of various processes, systems, and pilot plants to develop saline water conversion processes to the point of demonstration; (d) study methods for recovery, beneficial uses and disposal of residuals, and marketing of byproducts resulting from the improvement or conversion of impaired water in an environmentally acceptable manner; (e) undertake economic studies and surveys to determine present and prospective costs of producing water for beneficial purposes in various parts of the United States by saline water conversion processes and, by means of models, or other methodologies, prepare and maintain information concerning the relation of such conversion processes and systems to other aspects of State, regional, and national comprehensive water resources planning.