Essays examine the new knowledge-based economy, discussing regional economic development, policies regarding technology and innovation, and corporate strategies for the changing economy.

The Paso del Norte is home to some of the fastest growing desert communities in the world. About two million people live in this arid border region, which includes two counties in Southern New Mexico, five counties in West Texas, and four municipalities in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Irrigated agriculture is an important part of the economy, and farmers compete with the cities of El Paso, Las Cruces, and Ciudad Jurez for the same increasingly scarce sources of water: the Rio Grande and several aquifers. Navigating the Waters of the Paso del Norte: A People's Guide highlights the links between water and development in the region. It summarizes key water issues that the people of the Paso del Norte will need to resolve over the next few decades in order to allow for population growth and a healthy economy in the face of declining water resources. Written in nontechnical language, it is intended to be useful to students, teachers, organizations, and citizens interested in the critical role of water in their communities and the future development of the Paso del Norte region. A Spanish translation will be available in early 2000.