Identifying issues related to sustainable water resource management is a complex process. This complexity is evident in that there are diverse freshwater sources and users - paralleled by many diverse solutions or initiatives. For the purpose of this paper three case studies and initiatives related to water management and marketing are highlighted as: 1) The municipal water supply in Halifax; 2) Bottled water sales in the United States; and 3) International bulk transport and sales in arid Mediterranean regions. Brief descriptions of case study initiatives are provided. The sustainability of each is then assessed through question and response considerations that assist in determining the overall successes of each initiative regarding the management of sustainable development. This provides specific examples of successes or failures and indicates the practicality of initiatives with respect to such factors as location, resource limits, use, and demand. The overall intent is to inspire thought, attitudes, and actions that ensure adequate freshwater supplies for present and future generations - without compromising peaceful relationships.