The Laboratory was delegated certain functions in the flood data programme in minute 14B on file 81/379/000 dated 5/7/84. This working paper reviews the activities of the Laboratory and other groups as perceived by us. It also points to the need for strategic planning. Recommendations are detailed of Section 5 of this paper.

With the recent addition of Grade IV coastal engineers to the districts and the greater involvement of the Hydraulics Laboratory, it is now essential that the objectives of the data collection programme be reviewed and if necessary redefined. The first target should be the documentation of the objectives of the programme. It seems that the principal contributor to this documentation will be Rivers and Ports Branch taking advice where necessary from the Laboratory and the Districts. The objectives will relate to the perceived end use of data.