This thesis presents a state of the art review of environmental impact assessment procedures utilised in the water resources projects which have evolved over the past two decades. The methodologies employed and some of their limitations which exist and are inherent in both the planning and assessment phases of analysis are identified. The above was supplemented by an investigation of the various views of professionals currently employing the above methodologies. The review effort summarizes the relevant information obtained from the literature which is rather dynamic because of the ever evolving nature of the field. One conclusion drawn from this study is that the recent changes in water planning guidelines are but a pragmatic adaptation to the way planning actually takes place and that multiobjective methods will continue to play a role. Among suggestions offered by this author, in the case of analytical methods are needs for adapting more to the new institutional environment and for greater usage of conflict management techniques. It is believed that some of the recommendations in this thesis would serve to strengthen the process and the projects developed as part of the assessment program.