This paper documents the results from a questionnaire and two workshops sponsored by the Bureau of Reclamation and the National Water Supply Improvement Association. The questionnaire and workshops were used to obtain information from industry experts on research and development needs in the field of desalting. Information gathered indicates that research needs fall into two broad categories; general research needs (education, legislative, environmental), and technical research needs. This paper also provides information on current research efforts by the Bureau of Reclamation to help meet those needs. BACKGROUND Development and use of desalination has grown considerably since the mid-1950's, when the U.S. Government, through its Office of Saline Water, led a major research program to develop desalination technology. However, in 1982, this program was deemphasized and U.S. Government investment in basic research was reduced considerably. Since the 1980's, there has been little reduction in the cost of desalination technology. Low profit margins associated with the manufacture and sale of desalination and equipment have resulted in little capitol for research and development by industry. Most cost savings and technology development in desalination have resulted from refinement of existing technology.