1
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
“An ecosystem consists of a
and people. The abiotic resources refer to the elements
which all organisms need to survive such as oxygen, water complex set of relationships
and minerals in the soil.
amongst the living resources
Although there are different types of ecosystems, most have or biotic factors and the nonsimilar characteristics, which will be discussed further. In living or abiotic resources.”
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
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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
Rivers
Ponds
Streams
Wetlands
Marine
Seagrass beds
Estuaries
Coral reefs
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
Timber
FORESTS
INLAND FRESHWATER
SYSTEMS
(rivers and streams)
COASTAL / MARINE
SYSTEMS
Non-timber forest products
(including wildlife, handicraft
and medicinal plants)
Tropical forest biota i.e.
game species and species
used in the pet trade
Freshwater sources
in land fisheries, species for
the pet trade;
Aquaculture
Aquatic species used in the
pet trade
REGULATING
SERVICES
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
Waste disposal, assimilation and
treatment (for the provision of
freshwater)
Flood regulation, water storage
Biodiversity services
(population regulation, habitat and
species diversity)
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
MAN-MADE
SYSTEMS
Agricultural products: crops
and livestock
(Agricultural,
reservoirs)
Water storage
Provide variations on natural
habitats well as new niches
Soil conservation;
Soil formation and fertility; Climate
and microclimate regulation;
Atmospheric composition
regulation
SUPPORTING
SERVICES
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
Biodiversity support (food
webs, productivity,
terrestrial/aquatic
ecosystem interface)
Nutrient cycling and transport
Biodiversity support (food
webs, productivity,
terrestrial/aquatic
ecosystem interface)
Nutrient cycling and transport
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)
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Biodiversity support (food
webs, productivity,
terrestrial/aquatic
ecosystem interface)
Nutrient cycling and transport
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.
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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.
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
and is one of the most polluted.
Figure 2. A conceptual diagram of a
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:
TOTAL SUSPENDED SOILDS
(TSS)
CONDUCTIVITY (COND)
pH
TSS are solid materials that are suspended in the water which result
from erosion from urban runoff and agricultural land, industrial
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
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).
NITRATES
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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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:
1
Fresh water is a finite and vulnerable resource.
5
3
4
Role of women.
2
Water Management has to
involve all stakeholders.
Water has a Social and economic
value.
Integrating the three (3) E’s: economic efficiency, equity and
environment
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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
1.
2.
3.
objectives:
Efficiency to make water resources go as far as possible
Equity in the allocation of water across different social and economic groups
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
legislation can be implemented; and
framework through which policies, strategies 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
Water for
people
Water for
Food
Water for
Nature
Water for
industry
and
other
uses
MANAGEMENT
INSTRUMENTS
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
Management of the environment is the actual key to
sustainable water resources management.
and ecosystems.
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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.
this will more readily lead
to an action strategy based on tangible and immediate issues. It has also
According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP),
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
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
because of its survivorship.
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.
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