Watershed management practices in the tropics

Abstract

Tropical watersheds are characterized with high input in energy which allows agricultural production throughout the year. Many tropical countries have developing economies largely supported by agriculture. Unsustainable agricultural production is a major cause of land degradation and water pollution. Watershed management in the tropics should focus on practices which promote synergies among agricultural production, environmental protection, and poverty alleviation. In this chapter the concept of sustainable land management practices which is crucial in selection of appropriate watershed management practices is discussed. Further, the environmental services approach in watershed management is highlighted, and some examples of water-related Payment for Environmental Services (PES) schemes and programs in tropical Africa are given. A case study of a successful PES program in Kenya is then discussed. The need for creating an enabling environment for watershed management by creating appropriate policies, laws, and institutions is discussed, and a case study of legal and institutional framework from two East African countries is presented.