People Participation in Conservation and Re-generation of Natural Resources of Watersheds

Abstract

The changes in natural resources and climate are mainly occurring due to the anthropogenic activities where they are present. This paper illustrates conservation and management of natural resources and environmental issues that must be sorted out at the watershed level. All the problems related to watershed resources and environment must be tackled through participation of local people living therein. By implementing integrated approaches of conservation and development, involving people in watershed level, we can not only improve the natural resources but also help in the mitigation of climate change. Involvement of people in planning, designing, planting, production and consumption cycle can play a lead role and must be considered in various conservation and protection and developmental programs. Human resource constitutes a major part in the sustainable development of watersheds. Education and training of professionals along with local people help in the conservation, utilization and protection of each natural resource in any watershed, which is an urgent. The sustainability of resources like pasture, livestock, agricultural land, soil, water, biodiversity, forests and practices like agro-forestry, medicinal and aromatic plants, sustainable use of resources and responsible eco-tourism through integrated development approache,s must be recognized for better production and productivity at the watershed level.