The Myth of the Water Manager

Miranda Fricker, the British Philosopher, writes on epistimic injustice - when some people are deemed “to know” and others are deemed not to have a clue.

There are many educated people within the wider community who understand water science and engineering and have views which are worth listening to. Similarly, there are those who have gained experience and knowledge through life and work experience – like farmers, bush residents. Then there are those with expertise in the social sciences who can speak of the sociology involved, the spiritual impact of decisions and so on. These are ignored. The only social sciences that seem too be considered are economics and politics. Other social sciences aren’t in the race.

Monitoring changing values

This seems to be beyond the understanding of the Brumby government and those advising it. Joe Powell points out how developkment went hand in hand with water in the Victoria’s early days. This mindset continues. However, there is widespread interest in environmental values and impacts that did not exist when Deakin and the Chaffey brothers were dominant in water affairs. In the construction of the North-South Pipeline and the Wonthaggi Desalination Plant, there is no evidence of recognition of dominant environmental values.  A trip along-the Pipeline shows forest devastation. Yet to be faced is the reality of ocean degradition.

In short, a strong case can be made that current water managers and the Brumby government are incapable of responding to changing environmental and social values in management of Victoria’s water resources. There are hints that questions will be raised in the election on whether the Brumby government really has a plan for Victoria’s water resources. There may well be a plan of sorts. Is it of environmental and community benefit? Will communities exercise a voice in water resource management? Or will the plan merely satisfy private and public water corporations and politicians who may be seeking to underwrite a post-political career?