Basin Comanagement plans-a participative approach to water governance: A case study in honduras, central America

Abstract

This case study addresses the governance and institutionality of integrative and participative basin management in the micro-basin of the Valle de la Soledad located on the outskirts of the Honduran capital Tegucigalpa. The initiative comprises four basic stages: (1) identification of existing laws and state institutions, (2) knowledge of local actors' capacities to protect and administer water resources, (3) determination of water conflicts and steps for its possible solution, and (4) determination of factors and actors in favor and against water protection. The process allowed to develop municipal capacities, participative and efficient basin, and land use management programs that benefited local communities, particularly small and medium farmers, as well as to develop financial sustainability mechanisms.