Community based demand driven approach to watershed management: lessons learned in implementing the Philippine strategy for improved watershed resources management

Professorial Chair Lecture

San Miguel Corporation Inaugural Professorial Chair Lecture

Place

College of Forestry and Natural Resources, UPLB, College, Laguna

Date

12-2-2003

Abstract

Watershed degradation in the Philippines is widespread and has reached severe degrees in many areas. The consequences of the past, and present mismanagement of the country's watershed resources have resulted in the significant reduction in the economic, social, and environmental benefits to society. In recognition of this, the Philippines formulated the Philippine Strategy for Improved Watershed Resources Management (PSIWRM). The legislation, institutional and technological changes that the country should undertake to reverse the consequences of poor management of the country's watershed. The underlying philosophy of the strategy is that "there should be a demand driven, community based approach to watershed management involving two parallel components. Firstly, one where the demand is determined by national policies and concerns. Secondly, one in which direct stakeholders can articulate their needs and actively participate in the conservation, planning, management, and sustainable utilization for multiple purposes of the local watershed resources."

To test the efficacy of the strategy it was piloted in one of the watersheds of the country. This paper presents the various lessons in implementing the strategy. The analysis of the experiences and lessons along various cross cutting themes of participatory process and methods, institutional arrangements, livelihood development, and tenure are aimed at contributing to the possible improvement of the strategy and institutionalization of community based demand driven watershed management.

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

College

College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR)

Language

English

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