166 Protec ting Watersheds
Think about some of the deals made in the Aguan River Valley. One group
planted trees on other people’s land. Wealthy ranchers agreed to fence creeks
and springs. Some people even traded land. Determination, patience, and
benefits of more and cleaner water allowed partnerships to grow and succeed.
5. Make an action plan
Set clear goals and make an action plan. One goal may be to have trees
growing near all water sources in 5 years. Another goal may be to protect a
river so that in 50 years it will be safe to drink.
The action plan could include the protection of some land by not using it at
all, especially near streams or on hilltops. Post “Watershed Preserve: Do Not
Use” signs or mark trees with paint.
The first to benefit from watershed protection are usually people at the
bottom of the watershed (by having more water and improved soil). Make an
action plan that includes the needs of those at the top of the watershed who
will only benefit later. When everyone in the community works together, the
plan is more likely to succeed.
Aguan River Valley Watershed Action Plan
action plan
1. Do not cut vegetation near water sources.
2. Help young trees grow, and reforest areas that have
few trees, especially close to water sources.
3. Start community nurseries to grow plants for reforestation.
4. Organize groups to prevent and fight forest fires. Educate local farmers
not to burn their fields, or how to do safe, controlled fires.
5. Fence the area around water sources and post “Protected Area” signs.
6. Encourage farmers to conserve soil by using green manures, recycling
crop wastes, building retaining walls, and planting on contour lines.
7. Discourage the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
8. Work with the local government and water commissions to move toilets,
sewer systems, and washing areas away from water sources.
9. Organize community trash collection, and prevent trash from washing
into streams and rivers.
10. Move cattle away from water sources, and mark areas where no cattle
should graze.
11. Make sure people who have just moved to the community and new
businesses learn about the watershed and how they can help care for it.
These steps can be a model for any community’s watershed protection project.
The most important part of the project is to involve as many people as possible
in agreements that will benefit everyone in the long term.
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012