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Table of Contents Introduction ............................................................................................................ 3

Section 1 Ecosystem Dynamics and the Status of Ecosystems in Trinidad and Tobago .................. 5

Section 2 Water and Society ............................................................................................................... 10

Section 3 Watershed Assessment and Quality ................................................................................. 12

Section 4 Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) ....................................................... 18

Section 5 Adopt A River ...................................................................................................................... 23

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Introduction

The health and state of a nation’s watersheds are a reflection of the culture and character of its people. At the core of our social and economic functions is water. The dynamic interactions of the demand for water to facilitate human and ecological functions require an Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) approach. The Adopt-a-River initiative, which offers a unique opportunity for the promotion of a better understanding of the impact of environmental conditions and human behaviour on water and society, is premised on the IWRM approach. This initiative facilitates the involvement of schools, civil society and the corporate sector in the holistic, coordinated and sustainable approach to improving the status of our rivers and watersheds. The Summary Student Study Guide is intended to provide a foundation for the study of watersheds in Trinidad and Tobago, and in particular, for students participating in the Water and Sewerage Authority’s 3rd National Secondary Schools’ Quiz Competition ‘In the Know with H20’ on the theme ‘Adopt-a-River’. The challenges of water resource management and measures for restoration of Trinidad and Tobago’s watersheds are addressed in great detail. Ecosystems as building blocks of the environment are strategically introduced in the first section of the manual. A description is presented of the types of ecosystems and those native to Trinidad and Tobago. The biotic (living) and abiotic (mineral) characteristics of ecosystems are examined. The intent is to capture the concept of cyclic flows within ecosystems, including animals, humans and minerals, a rhythm which has been in harmony for millenniums. As a consequence of human development, this synchronisation has become disturbed, creating excessive pressures on the system. An important factor towards understanding the relationship between water and society is exploring the intricate history of the human influence on Trinidad and Tobago’s water resources. This is outlined in the historical uses of rivers, in a less industrialised Trinidad and Tobago. This guide also describes the cultural value of local rivers and waters, including our local folklore. The idea is to remind and in some cases inform on our forefathers use and respect for water. A deeper recognition of the natural elements of a river system is defined by outlining the concept of watersheds. Hydrological theories and water quality parameters are explained to provide a scientific background for watershed assessment. The guide demonstrates the natural water quantity and quality characteristics of a watershed and the tracers that are typically utilised to ascertain anthropogenic changes. The IWRM paradigm, as a possible solution to the stresses placed on water resources, is discussed subsequent to the examination of the scientific and social aspects of water. The discussion highlights the role of IWRM as a best practice approach to the coordinated development and management of all natural water resources. It explains the various aspects of water management and the roles of the human system, regulatory and institutional in achieving the goals of IWRM. The Summary Student Study Guide concludes with a focus on the Adopt-a-River initiative where the project objectives are outlined drawing reference to current local and international watershed improvement projects. The programme aims to discover avenues by which society can become custodians of their waterways.

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At its core, the Adopt-a-River Summary Student Study Guide will seek to deliver the message of balance between development and conservation, which is desperately needed at this time. The ultimate goal is to share information and empower the society, particularly via the student population, to change their behaviour toward protection of the natural environment and to secure this precious, finite resource, WATER, for present and future generations.

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Section 1 Ecosystem Dynamics and the Status of Ecosystems in Trinidad and Tobago

This area addresses the definition of an ecosystem and identifies the various types and their characteristics.

It also seeks to highlight the roles of biotic, abiotic and human factors in an ecosystem.

In order to completely understand the role that humans are supposed to place in the environment, we

must understand how the environment works. The natural environment consists of ECOSYSTEMS. An

ecosystem, short for 'ecological system', includes all the living organisms existing together in a

particular area (Sydenham and Thomas 2009). An ecosystem consists of a complex set of

relationships amongst the living resources or biotic factors

and the non-living or abiotic resources. Biotic factors are the

living organisms such as plants, trees, animals, birds, fishes

and people. The abiotic resources refer to the elements

which all organisms need to survive such as oxygen, water

and minerals in the soil.

Although there are different types of ecosystems, most have

similar characteristics, which will be discussed further. In

understanding ecosystems and their functions, you must

consider that most of the ecosystems are cyclic or better

said, part of the „circle of life‟. It is important to know that in

a natural environment there is a great deal of dependency among organisms, populations and

communities which live in ecosystems.

Elements

of an

Ecosystem

“An ecosystem consists of a

complex set of relationships

amongst the living resources

or biotic factors and the non-

living or abiotic resources.”

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Types of Ecosystems

There are various types of ecosystems that can be broadly characterized between terrestrial

(land) and aquatic (water) ecosystems. Most ecosystem types are natural, though there are a few

which are generated from human impacts. These include secondary forests, agricultural lands,

freshwater dams and reservoirs.

ECOSYSTEMS

TERRESTRIAL AQUATIC Mountains Forests

Deserts

Savannas/Grasslands

Freshwater Marine

Rivers Seagrass beds

Ponds Estuaries

Streams Coral reefs

Wetlands Salt marshes Hydrothermal vents

Figure 1. Ecosystem Characterization

Ecosystems in Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago hosts a variety of ecosystem types which include forests ecosystems,

savannahs, rivers, swamp/mangrove forests (wetlands), and coral reefs. These ecosystems are

home to an abundant biodiversity of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) which is unparalleled in

the Caribbean.

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Forest Ecosystem

Our forests ecosystems are mostly found in our three mountain

ranges: the Northern, Central and Southern ranges. The northern

range has the two highest peaks, with El Cerro del Aripo and El

Tucuche reaching over 900m (3,000ft). Forests contribute directly to a variety of

functions: maintaining the integrity of an ecosystem, providing wildlife habitats, protecting

watersheds, mitigating impacts of extreme weather, sequestering carbon, and generating goods

and services for direct use by people for consumption, other economic uses, and recreation. It is

known that the forests of the Northern Range have continued to be altered as a result of forest

clearance for various uses such as housing developments and supporting infrastructure, agriculture,

quarrying, and timber harvesting. Forest fires are also a source of forest degradation (NRA

2005).

Savanna

The Aripo Savannas are a natural savanna ecosystem which in

August 2007, was given the designation of Environmentally Sensitive

Area (ESA) under the ESA Rules 2001. The Aripo Savanna is dominated by

sedges, grasses and herbs as well as a number of rare species including the sundew, an

insectivorous (consumes insects) plant. The savannas are the only remaining natural savannah

ecosystem in Trinidad and Tobago and has been under threat from quarrying, fires, illegal

human settlements and hunting. This has resulted in greater fragmentation of the savanna as well as

degradation of the savanna and marsh vegetation.

Rivers

Rivers are a major source of potable water but are also an important

cultural, recreational and a source of food and income to many

citizens. For the ease of monitoring and management these rivers are characterised by watersheds,

Trinidad and Tobago has 69 watersheds - 54 in Trinidad and 15 in Tobago. One of the major rivers

systems is the Caroni River which serves over 40% of Trinidad with potable water. According to the

Cropper Foundation, the current status of local freshwater ecosystems is fair but they are being

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threatened by housing, agriculture, industry, quarrying, chemical and solid waste pollution, alien

invasive species and overharvesting.

Wetlands

A wetland is a land area that is saturated with water, either

permanently or seasonally, such that it takes on characteristics of

distinct ecosystems. Wetlands in both Trinidad and Tobago have undergone significant

alterations especially on account of human activities. Significant losses have occurred along the

west coast of Trinidad (including the Caroni Swamp), on the east coast of Trinidad (Nariva

swamp), and in south-western Tobago (Institute of Marine Affairs, 2010). Opadeyi (2010) reports

a decrease of 17% in the extent of wetlands in Trinidad. It has been estimated that the Nariva

Swamp has seen 17% reduction in the size. This is an environmentally sensitive area and an

internationally recognised Ramsar site, but as a result of rice farming activities, slash and burn

agriculture and infrastructural development (Carbonell et al 2007) there has been a loss of

approximately 135 hectares.

Coral reefs

Coral reefs are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea” since

they support the most diverse ecosystem on earth. This complex system acts

as the first natural defense against high energy waves protecting the shoreline from wave

damage and coastal erosion. They are also important to the local economy attracting tourists as

well as a nursery for fishes. Reefs are sensitive to small changes in the environment such as

sediment, nutrients and temperature. Though these parameters change naturally, man’s influence

has increased the rate of change which negatively affect this ecosystem thus reducing their

beneficial capabilities.

Man-made Systems

There are a number of man-made systems as well, which include

secondary forest, agricultural lands, freshwater dams and reservoirs.

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ECOSYSTEM PROVISIONING SERVICES

REGULATING SERVICES

SUPPORTING SERVICES

FORESTS

Timber Non-timber forest products (including wildlife, handicraft and medicinal plants) Tropical forest biota i.e. game species and species used in the pet trade

Runoff regulation and retention Biodiversity services (population regulation, habitat and species diversity)

Soil conservation; Soil formation and fertility; Climate and microclimate regulation; Atmospheric composition regulation

Water cycling and

replenishment of surface and ground water resources Biodiversity support (pollination, germination, dispersal, food webs, productivity, terrestrial/aquatic ecosystem interface) Nutrient cycling and transport

INLAND FRESHWATER SYSTEMS (rivers and streams)

Freshwater sources

in land fisheries, species for the pet trade; Aquaculture Aquatic species used in the pet trade

Waste disposal, assimilation and treatment (for the provision of freshwater)

Flood regulation, water storage Biodiversity services

(population regulation, habitat and species diversity)

Biodiversity support (food webs, productivity,

terrestrial/aquatic ecosystem interface) Nutrient cycling and transport

COASTAL / MARINE

SYSTEMS

Marine fisheries (including other coastal and marine products - e.g. oysters, shrimp, crabs) Other food (wildlife, agricultural products) Coastal and wetland resources (eg. from mangroves)

Ornamental marine, brackish water species

Waste disposal, assimilation and treatment (regulation of

coastal water quality) Flood regulation/ water storage

Shoreline protection (provided by coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, coral reefs and seagrass beds) Climate and microclimate regulation Biodiversity services

(population regulation, habitat and species diversity)

Biodiversity support (food webs, productivity,

terrestrial/aquatic ecosystem interface) Nutrient cycling and transport

MAN-MADE

SYSTEMS (Agricultural,

reservoirs)

Agricultural products: crops and livestock

Water storage

Provide variations on natural habitats well as new niches

Soil conservation;

Soil formation and fertility; Climate and microclimate regulation;

Atmospheric composition regulation

Biodiversity support (food webs, productivity, terrestrial/aquatic ecosystem interface)

Nutrient cycling and transport

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Section 2 Water and Society

This theme describes the historical use of water in Trinidad and Tobago as well as its influence on our

culture, communities and beliefs.

Amerindian societies, like many civilizations throughout history, were

strategically located near water courses to quench their need for water

to drink, acquire food (fishing), transportation and washing their

clothes and themselves. The rivers were the only reservoirs of freshwater in those times.

The rivers that our forefathers knew were much larger than they are today. Ships and canoes

were the major modes of transportation and aided in the discoveries of many of our towns as

villages. In 1592, under the Spanish flag, a ship sailed up the Caroni River and turned into a

tributary, now known as the St Joseph River, the first capital of Trinidad was founded and called

San José de Oruňa. The Lopinot River once transported a great deal of cocoa from the estates

high in the hills to the main road and then into Port of Spain.

One of the first efforts in the conservation and protection of water

sources in the western hemisphere was the establishment of the first

forest reserve in Tobago in 1765. The Colonials reserved this area for the “protection of

the rains” and their direct environmental benefits. The

dawn of the industrial age saw the distribution of water go

underground and out of sight. In 1853 the Maracas

Waterworks became the first organized distribution system in

Trinidad and Tobago. It served the purpose of granting

25,000 people that lived in Port of Spain, at that time, pipe

borne water. There was no need to live near the source;

pipelines were established to bring water to your home no

matter how far you were from a source. Humans now

controlled its supply and distribution. New technologies

ensured accessibility to the masses.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Dial, the most famous

landmark in Arima, when

installed used machinery

which was powered by a

stream that flowed through

the town.

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Maraval waterworks in the 1850’s

Water bodies have long since been the gathering place for cultural activities as well as for more social gatherings. From the Hindu festival of

Ganga Dhaaraa to the local “river lime”, people of Trinidad and Tobago have always gone to

water bodies for spiritual mediation and recreational purposes.

These activities have also left a negative effect on our water bodies; litter and garbage are left

after these events that clog the water ways contributing to flooding and diminishing the aesthetic

appeal of the area.

In Trinidad and Tobago we feel entitled to water because it is so easy to access. We can bring it

into our homes by merely turning on a faucet. This means that we tend to take cheap, abundant,

good quality water for granted. This situation describes the theory of „Tragedy of the Commons’. It describes an ongoing condition of unsustainability that arises when a shared

resource is continuously depleted even when it is in the best interest of all to prevent this from

happening. Without responsible use, our water resources can be severely affected.

Water has also stretched into our folklore, "Mama Glow" or "Mama Dlo" or "Mama Dglo" whose

name is derived from the French "maman de l' eau" which means "mother of the water" is one of the

lesser known personalities of Trinidad and Tobago folklore. A half woman, half snake with

long flowing hair which she combs constantly. Her upper torso is a naked, beautiful woman, the

lower part coils into a large form of an anaconda snake that is hidden beneath the water. She is

sometimes thought to be the lover of Papa Bois, and old hunters tell stories of coming upon them in

the 'High Woods'.

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Section 3 Watershed Assessment and Quality

This area identifies watersheds in Trinidad and Tobago and their status. It also explains the

parameters of assessment and effects of land use change on their condition.

A watershed is defined as

“The area of land where all of the water that is under it or drains off of

it goes into the same place” United States Environmental Protection Agency, (USEPA)

It is also considered as an area or region drained by a river, river system, or other body of water

which is separated by an area or ridge of land that prevents waters from flowing into different

rivers or basins (Oxford Dictionaries).

Figure 2 illustrates the concept of watersheds as defined

above. All the water moving through the area of land

eventually accumulates at a lower point. The watershed is

also bound by ridges on either side from its upper to

lower reaches. This physical barrier prevents any

interaction with other watersheds.

Trinidad and Tobago is subdivided into fourteen (14)

hydrometric units, nine (9) in Trinidad and five (5) in

Tobago. Trinidad is further sub-divided into 54

catchment areas (watersheds) and Tobago sub-divided

into 15 catchment areas (watersheds).

DID YOU KNOW?

One of the most critical watersheds

in Trinidad and Tobago is the Caroni

Basin, which serves as a source for about

40% of the country’s potable water

and is one of the most polluted Figure 2. A conceptual diagram of a and is one of the most polluted. watershed.

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Maps showing the Hydrometric Areas and Watersheds of Trinidad and Tobago (Genivar, 2009)

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The important thing about watersheds is what we do on the land and how it affects the quality and quantity of water for all communities living downstream. Healthy watersheds provide food and shelter for wildlife as well.

Watershed management is the process of creating and implementing plans, programs and projects

to sustain and enhance watershed functions that affect the plant, animal and human communities

within the watershed boundary. Some of the features of a watershed that agencies seek to manage

include water supply, water quality, drainage, storm water runoff, water rights and the overall

planning and utilization of the watersheds.

Watershed assessment is a necessary component of a monitoring program in order to determine what degraded or impaired areas may exist in the watershed and why. Several characteristics of a watershed are taken into

consideration during the assessment process including land use, land cover, hydrology and

biodiversity. It is important to also consider the natural and cultural resources of the watershed as

well as the human activities. This information may be obtained from various sources including

topographic maps to determine drainage area and land features as well as land use data (North

Carolina Cooperative Extension).

Watershed assessment is also an efficient and cost-effective means of evaluating and categorizing water quality. It provides valuable information for use in

community planning, identification of pollution sources, and maintenance of the health and

aesthetics of a water body (Watershed Assessment Associates, 2001).

Land use Issues in Watersheds There are several different land uses in a watershed:

natural vegetation, deforested/clear-felled, agriculture, industrial and commercial and

residential. Each of these uses can impact on the dynamics of a watershed. In addition to

processes within the watershed, land-use changes also affect its physical and biological makeup.

DEFORESTATION

Definition: the clearing of forests and removal of trees (e.g. quarrying) and other vegetation

for agricultural, commercial, housing or firewood uses without replanting (reforesting) and

without allowing time for the forest to regenerate itself.

Impacts: soil erosion, reduced soil absorption of rainfall, reduction in water availability,

increased runoff (flooding), landslides.

Affected watersheds: Arima, Guanapo, Mausica, Santa Cruz, St Joseph, Tacarigua, Courland

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AGRICULTURE

Definition: The science or practice of farming, including cultivation of the soil for growing of

crops and the rearing of animals to provide food and other products (Oxford Dictionary,

2011).

Impacts: high nutrient levels (fertilizers), reduced oxygen (increased algal bloom resulting in

fish kills), and heavy metal contamination (pesticides) i.e. reduced water quality for human

consumption.

Affected watersheds: Aripo, Guanapo, Arima, Tacarigua, Maracas, Talparo,

INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL

Definition: a particular form of economic activity concerned with the processing of raw

material and manufacture of goods in factories.

Impacts: industrial effluent, notably synthetic organic chemicals, heavy metals

Affected watersheds: Mausica, Tacarigua, Arouca, Couva, Guaracara, Caparo, South

Oropuche, Guapo, Erin

URBAN DEVELOPMENT/SPONTANEOUS SETTLEMENTS

Definition: the expansion of communities, towns and cities into natural areas such as, forests,

flood plains and swamps.

Impacts: the same impacts as deforestation and includes, domestic wastewater, urban runoff,

solid waste (bottles, and other garbage thrown in waterways)

Affected Watersheds: Mausica, Guanapo, Santa Cruz, Tacarigua, Couva, Nariva, South

Oropuche, Erin, Aripo, Cunupia, Cumuto, Talparo, Courland

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Water Quality

Pollution is the contamination of the earth‟s environment with

materials that interfere with human health, the quality of life or the

natural functioning of the ecosystem. Water pollutants can be classified into three

types: solids, liquids and gases. Solid pollutants would be garbage and trash that we litter our

rivers with for example, old fridges and cars. Domestic wastewater or untreated water from our

sinks and toilets are examples of pollutants. Gaseous pollutants include steam which is a waste

product of industrial processing. There are many parameters which are used to assess water

quality. Some of the more commonly measured parameters are as follows:

TSS are solid materials that are suspended in the water which result

from erosion from urban runoff and agricultural land, industrial

TOTAL SUSPENDED SOILDS

(TSS)

CONDUCTIVITY (COND)

pH

wastes, bank erosion, algae growth or wastewater discharges (NDDH

2005). High concentrations of suspended solids gives water a brown

colour and blocks out light, thus preventing the growth of aquatic

plants, reducing the oxygen in water and kills aquatic organisms e.g.

fish and crabs.

Conductivity is a measure of the ability of water to pass an

electrical current. It is affected by the presence of inorganic

dissolved solids in the water. Organic compounds like oil do not

conduct electrical current very well and therefore have a low

conductivity in water. Conductivity is also affected by temperature:

the warmer the water, the higher the conductivity (USEPA 2011).

pH is a measurement of the acidity or alkalinity (base) of a solution.

pH is measured on a scale of 0 to 14. Neutral water has a pH of 7.

Low pH values in freshwater are also caused by the dissolution of

acids-forming substances in precipitation. Pure rainfall has a pH of

about 5.6. High organic matter content in the water will also

decrease the pH of water.

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DISSOLVED OXYGEN

(DO)

TURBIDITY (TURB)

FREE AMMONIA

NITRATES

Dissolved oxygen analysis measures the amount of gaseous

oxygen (O2) dissolved in an aqueous solution. Oxygen gets

into water by diffusion from the surrounding air, by aeration

(rapid movement), and as a product of photosynthesis.

Oxygen levels that remain below 1-2 mg/l for a few hours can

result in large fish kills (KY Water Watch 2011). Dissolved

oxygen values locally ranged from 0.6 to 8.2mg/L.

Turbidity is a measure of the degree to which the water

loses its transparency (Lenntech 2011). There are various

parapeters which influences the cloudiness of the water. It is

measured in NTU: Nephelometric Turbidity Units. The instrument

used for measuring it is called a nephelometer or turbidimeter,

which measures the intensity of light scattered at 90 degrees as a

beam of light passes through a water sample (Lenntech 2011).

The term free ammonia refers to NH3. It is highly reactive and can

affect the health of organisms, including humans. Ammonia is

an indicator of faecal (sewage) pollution. It affects the taste

and smell of water and makes disinfection more difficult (WHO

2008).

Ammonia in the environment can originate from metabolic,

agricultural and industrial processes, from disinfection with

chloramines, fertilizer runoff and sewage release (Bellingham

2011).

Nitrate ion (NO3-) is the common form of nitrogen in natural

water (Bellingham 2011). Natural sources of nitrates include

igneous rock, plant decay and animal debris. Nitrate levels

over 5mg/L indicate man-made pollution which includes

fertilizers, livestock, urban runoff, septic tanks and wastewater

discharges. In general, nitrates are less toxic to people than

ammonia or nitrites however, they are toxic to infants.

In the environment, nitrate will become toxic to fish at about

30 mg/L. Nitrate pollution will cause eutrophication or algal

blooms where algae and aquatic plant growth will consume the

oxygen and increase the TSS of the water (Bellingham 2011)

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1 2

Section 4 Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)

This area describes the role of IWRM as a best practice approach to the coordinated development

and management of all natural water resources. It explains the various aspects of water management

and the roles of the human system; legislative institutional and stakeholders, in achieving the goals of

IWRM.

In 2000, freshwater became redefined as a finite and vulnerable resource, especially to sustain

life, development and the environment (GWP TAC 2000). This redefinition became necessary due

to the increase in global population size, increased economic activities and improved standards of

living, which lead to increased competition for and conflicts over limited freshwater resources.

Trinidad and Tobago is not a water scarce nation. According to the World Bank water

requirement criteria, the minimum water availability to sustain human life is approximately 1000

cubic meters per capita per year. Trinidad and Tobago has an annual average water production

of 2500 cubic meters per capita per year (GOTT, 2007). However, the availability, accessibility

and quality of water do not coincide with the location and needs of the citizens.

Dublin Principles

In January 1992, at the International Conference on Water and the Environment (ICWE), Dublin

Ireland the Dublin Statement on Water and Sustainable Development also known as the “Dublin

Principles” was adopted. This conference was the last technical preparatory meeting before the

UN Conference on Environment and Development (the “Earth Summit”) in Rio de Janeiro in June

1992. The Dublin Principles have been the basis for much of the subsequent water sector reform,

they are as follows:

Fresh water is a finite and vulnerable resource. Water Management has to

involve all stakeholders.

Role of women. Water has a Social and economic

value.

Integrating the three (3) E’s: economic efficiency, equity and

environment

3 4 5

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Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)

“IWRM is a process that promotes the coordinated development and management of water, land and

related resources, in order to maximize the resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable

manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems”

(GWP-TAC, 2000)

The IWRM approach promotes a coordinated development and

management of land and water, surface water and groundwater, the

river basin and its adjacent coastal and marine environment, and

upstream and downstream interests. The concept of Integrated Water Resources

Management - in contrast to “traditional”, fragmented water resources management - at its most

fundamental level is as concerned with the management of water demand as with its supply.

IWRM has gained worldwide acceptance as a successful way to tackle the challenges associated

with water resources management. Thus, integration can be divided into two (2) basic categories:

The natural systems, with its critical importance for resource availability and quality. The

integration of the natural systems, such as freshwater systems and the coastal zone; land and

water; surface and groundwater and the upstream and downstream interests.

The human systems, which fundamentally determines the resource use, waste production

and pollution of the resource, and which must also set the development priorities. This

would include national integrated policy development, influencing the economic sector,

integration of ALL stakeholders and the integration of water and wastewater

management.

IWRM explicitly challenges conventional, fractional water development and management systems and

places emphasis on an integrated approach with more coordinated decision making across sectors

and scales.

This integrated approach to water management is not a one shot approach but a process that

achieves three (3) key strategic objectives:

1. Efficiency to make water resources go as far as possible

2. Equity in the allocation of water across different social and economic groups

3. Environmentally sustainable, to protect the water resources base and

associated ecosystems.

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The three pillars of IWRM as stated by the Global Water Partnership are:

Moving towards an enabling environment of appropriate policies, strategies and

legislation for sustainable water resources development and management;

Putting in place the institutional framework through which policies, strategies and

legislation can be implemented; and

Setting up the management instruments needed for effective regulation and

enforcement, conflict resolution and information exchange.

IWRM is a process and should not be considered a one-shot approach. It is one that is long-term and

forward-moving but iterative rather than linear in nature. It is a process of change which seeks to

shift water development and management systems from their currently unsustainable forms; IWRM

has no fixed beginnings or endings

Cross-Sectoral Integration

ENABLING

ENVIRONMENT

INSTITUTIONAL

ROLES

MANAGEMENT

INSTRUMENTS

Water for Water for

people Food

Water for

industry Water for and

Nature other

uses

Figure 3. IWRM and its relations to sub-sectors (“GWP Comb” Taken from GWP, 2002)

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In the IWRM process there are some vital components that must be included in the management

framework, the Components of IWRM:

Managing water at the basin or watershed, this includes integrating land

and water, upstream and downstream, groundwater, surface water, and coastal resources.

Optimizing supply, this involves conducting assessments of surface and groundwater

supplies, analyzing water balances, adopting wastewater reuse, and evaluating the

environmental impacts of distribution and use options.

Managing demand, such as adopting cost recovery policies, utilizing water-efficient

technologies, and establishing decentralized water management authorities.

Providing equitable access, that supports effective water users’ associations,

involvement of marginalized groups, and consideration of gender issues.

Establishing policy, examples are implementation of the polluter-pays principle, water

quality norms and standards, and market-based regulatory mechanisms.

Utilizing an intersectoral approach to decision-making, where authority for managing

water resources is employed responsibly and stakeholders have a share in the process.

Trinidad and Tobago is still far from being fully immersed into the integrated approach to water

management; however we have taken strides in this direction.

Current legislation places the responsibility for water planning, management, conservation and

protection of the water resources under the ambit of the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA),

(WASA Act [1965], Part III Sections 42). The Water Resources Agency (WRA), a department

within WASA, has the responsibility for monitoring and managing the watersheds in Trinidad and

Tobago.

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In 1987, WASA established a Water Resources Committee in recognition of the need for an

integrated approach to water management in Trinidad and Tobago. This Committee consisted of

representatives from various governmental organizations and private sector groups, whose

activities impact on water. One of the most important achievements of this committee was the

preparation of a draft Water Management Policy, known today as the Integrated Water

Resources Management Policy (2005)

This Policy was approved by cabinet in 2005 seeking to establish the foundation of IWRM in

Trinidad and Tobago. This policy speaks to the integration of sectors and maps the way forward

towards an improved legislative framework for water management. The policy provides an overview

of the status of the country‟s water resources and outlines the goal and objectives of water

resources management.

One of the major milestones in the water

sector was the establishment of the

Integrated Water Resources

Management Stakeholders

Meetings in November 2009. Since

then, there have been 10 general

meetings and several sub-committee

meetings. This elite group composes of

over thirty (30) representatives from

Governmental Organizations, NGOs

and CBOs that come together every

quarter to discuss and implement the

way forward in water resources

management. The members of this group have gained a better understanding of the IWRM

principles and the philosophy that it adheres to.

Coming out of these meetings have been projects to improve our watersheds, water quality and the

public perception and understanding of water related activities.

Water resources management is critical to the well being of the country. However, water

resources cannot be managed in isolation of the environment. The delicate balances between

securing water for people, food and ecosystems, while maintaining the long term sustainability of

the water resource must involve the management integration of the interdependent water, land

and ecosystems. Management of the environment is the actual key to

sustainable water resources management.

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Section 5 Adopt A River

This theme explains the Adopt A River project, which is an initiative to involve the community and

corporate citizens in the improvement of watersheds in Trinidad and Tobago in a sustainable, holistic

and coordinated manner. It details the process of Adopt A River and describes the project initiatives

while drawing reference to current watershed improvement projects both locally and internationally.

The Adopt a River project is an initiative to involve the community and

corporate citizens in the improvement of watersheds in Trinidad and

Tobago in a sustainable, holistic and coordinated manner. Due to the

increase in the pollution of the rivers, fragmented management and institutional frameworks as

well as the exclusion of citizens in the management process, the Adopt A River Program will

encourage the active participation of stakeholders within the river basin at all stages of the

program life cycle. Stakeholders will design and implement projects that are applicable,

implementable and sustainable, therefore, promoting a sense of ownership of the watershed and

encouraging a commitment towards its rehabilitation and conservation.

This community and issue-based approach has been the recommended path for the

implementation of IWRM in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), such as Trinidad and Tobago.

According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), this will more readily lead

to an action strategy based on tangible and immediate issues. It has also

been shown that such an approach can help win broad public support.

The logo (Figure 4) created for the Adopt A River Program is the local fish species Poecilia

reticulata or Guppy. This is a very common local species of fish which is known for being able to

adapt to adverse environmental conditions. It was chosen because it is very well-known and also

because of its survivorship. The common name of this fish (Guppy) was

actually taken from a Trinidadian, Robert John

Lechmere Guppy, who discovered this fish locally

in 1886. As such, it has great significance locally and makes a

favourable mascot for the Adopt A River program.

Figure 4. The Adopt A River

Logo

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The overall objective of the „Adopt a River‟ program is to bring awareness to local watershed

issues and to facilitate the participation of public and private sector entities in sustainable and

holistic projects aimed at improving the status of rivers and their watersheds in Trinidad and

Tobago.

The specific objectives to be achieved by the WASA program are:

Educating citizens of all sectors on the water pollution issues locally, how they contribute towards the problem and how they can help

Fostering appreciation for the natural environment and by extension

national pride whilst maintaining an open, sharing, facilitating atmosphere within the

„Adopt a River' project

Promoting a volunteerism ethic to benefit all levels of society

Empowering all users of water - private and public sector agencies,

communities and schools - to protect water resources and participate in water resource

management

Facilitating the involvement of patrons and sponsors in stakeholder

empowerment and resource management strategies

Developing and making available the necessary tools for

training and empowering local implementing agents and other role-players

Ensuring optimum efficiency through involvement and linkages with other

existing programs and water resource initiatives.

Managing the initiative towards achieving a change in culture and behaviour towards sustaining the health and aesthetics of a river

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The Adopt A River (AAR) process consists of ten (10) simple steps.

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The initiatives under AAR can be either direct (active participation) or indirect (funding or

sponsorship) projects. The participants are encouraged to adopt either an entire watershed or a

part thereof and work within these areas, implementing any of the suggested projects. The

adopter can also design their own project for implementing within their watershed of adoption;

however, this project should meet at least 3 of the objectives of the overall program and fall into the

following project areas:

Education

Education is the foundation on which the following projects will be successful. Educational

programs would include:

School visits and lectures

Community-based lectures and outreach programs

Television and radio

Websites

Employee initiatives

Reforestation, repopulation and rehabilitation Exercises

Since deforestation has been identified as a major cause of water pollution and flooding, especially in the

Northern Range (NRA 2005), tree-planting exercises can be done in catchments of greatest concern. Lack of

vegetation along watercourses and its poor management has been identified as an important

contributor to increased erosion and sedimentation of rivers (Maharaj and Alkins-Koo 2007) therefore, it is

very important to implement a reforestation program, not only on river banks but also on deforested

slopes and plains which become denuded regularly during the dry season.

Cleanup Projects

This involves regularly cleaning up the watersheds to ensure that garbage or debris does not

block waterways and encourage flooding. It would include regular clean-up exercises,

landscaping and the establishment of proper waste disposal facilities as required. One possible

example of a clean-up exercise would be a ‟River Clean-up Lime‟ where persons walk a

particular length of a river, cleaning as they go and arrive at a particular point at which food is

being prepared as in a „river lime’, just in time for lunch. One advantage of adopting a river in

this manner is the possibility of using the adopted area for retreats and company functions such as

family days.

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Water Monitoring Programs

Since there is a need for continuous monitoring of our rivers, baseline water quality monitoring can

be included aside from clean-up and tree planting exercises. A very good example of a

community-based monitoring program is the ProEcoServ project which is being implemented by

the Institute of Marine Affairs. Under this project, community and farming groups from the

Caura/Tacarigua area have received training in water quality monitoring so that they can

conduct monitoring exercises and also act as trainers in their communities (IMA 2011).

School Involvement and Competitions

Schools can be involved in the „Adopt a River’ drive in a number of ways:

Tree Planting Exercise - Schools can participate in a tree planting exercise at least once per

academic year.

School Water Conservation Competitions - A school water conservation competition can be

launched where the school with the most impressive, inexpensive water recycling model wins. This

system will be completely functional and a permanent addition to the infrastructure at the school

with no threat to safety of the students.

Community Based Projects and Competitions

With community visits and exchange, a level of trust can develop between communities and

adopters. This would facilitate the easy exchange of information about the water related issues

amongst the participants so that adopters and communities can work together to resolve them.

Voluntary Effluent Cleanups

In most rivers industrial, agricultural and domestic effluents are major sources of contaminants.

Hence, companies or individuals can become involved in the Adopt a River activities by voluntarily

cleaning up their effluents before release. In many cases, companies which release their effluent into

rivers have little knowledge or understanding of their impacts on downstream activities. For

example, the Mausica River and Tacarigua Rivers receive effluents from industrial and residential

areas and are still used by farmers to irrigate crops.