Water is arguably the most complex and important natural resource that supports human society. While alternatives to fossil fuels and other natural resources are at least possible, there is no possible substitute for water to support human life, agriculture, industry, and aquatic ecosystems. Water shortages, degradation of aquatic ecosystems, and social conflicts over water management are rampant in New Jersey, the United States, and throughout the world.

Climate change is likely to have profound impacts on water resources by accentuating floods and droughts. Such changes could affect drinking water quality and availability, water management policies and procedures, and aquatic ecosystems. New Jersey's water resources are also affected by rapid development and urban sprawl. Indeed, New Jersey is a microcosm of the water management problems that exist throughout the country.

The complexity of water issues necessitates an integrated trans-disciplinary approach in which physical, biological, and social scientists work jointly with lawyers and ethicists to understand and propose solutions. The Freshwater Resources group is therefore composed of scientists from the departments of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences, Geology, and the Institute of Marine and Coastal Sciences.