The book "Water Resources Law" by Alex Gardner, Richard H. Bartlett, Janice Gray, and Gerard Carney is a comprehensive legal text that explores the complexities of water resources management. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Water Markets: The book includes an in-depth analysis of the emergence of water markets, which is a significant theme in modern water resources management. This section discusses the implications and regulations surrounding these markets.
2. Intergovernmental Agreements: The 2013 Intergovernmental Agreement on Implementing Water Reform is another key area of focus. This agreement is crucial for understanding the federal and state-level policies governing water resources.
3. Water Access Rights: The book provides an overview of the Australian model of water access rights, which is a critical component of water resources law. This includes discussions on the history, purposes, and effects of water resources planning.
4. Constitutional Framework: The book also delves into the constitutional framework for water resources management, highlighting the legal structures and principles that govern this field.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to provide a thorough understanding of water resources law, covering various aspects from historical perspectives to contemporary legal frameworks. It includes chapters on the history and purposes of water resources planning, the evolution of water markets, and the implementation of intergovernmental agreements. The text is designed to be both informative and practical, making it useful for legal professionals, policymakers, and students in the field.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews of the book are not provided in the search results, the book's comprehensive nature and updates on significant legal developments suggest it would be well-received by scholars and practitioners in the field of water resources law. The inclusion of bibliographical references and an index indicates that the book is a reliable source for further research and study.

Editions

The book has been updated and reviewed, with the most recent edition available being the 2nd edition, published in 2017. This edition includes the latest developments in water markets and intergovernmental agreements, making it a current and authoritative resource.

In summary, "Water Resources Law" by Alex Gardner, Richard H. Bartlett, Janice Gray, and Gerard Carney is a seminal work in the field, offering a detailed exploration of the legal frameworks governing water resources. Its comprehensive coverage of key themes, including water markets and intergovernmental agreements, makes it an essential text for anyone involved in water resources management.