For a given watershed, should only people who live downstream of water should be concerned with the management of water resources?
People who have to manage the watershead area have to be concerned, as they are the doers of any conservation and control
so is that a yes or no?
Just about anything that includes the words only, none, all, always, never, everyone, no one (and so on) needs to be considered very carefully.
What is that question actually asking? How does Bob Pursley's reply fit with that question?
Think about all this, and let us know what you decide.
No, the management of water resources in a watershed should not be the sole concern of people who live downstream. All individuals within a watershed have a stake in the responsible management of water resources, regardless of their location within the watershed. Here's why:
1. Interconnectedness: Watersheds are interconnected systems where water flows from higher elevations (upstream) to lower elevations (downstream). Activities and decisions made by people throughout the watershed can impact the quality and quantity of water resources downstream. Therefore, everyone within the watershed can potentially affect the water supply and its sustainability.
2. Upstream-downstream relationship: People living upstream and downstream are dependent on each other in the water cycle. Upstream communities contribute water to downstream areas, which can include drinking water, irrigation, and other important uses. Cooperation and collaboration among all watershed residents are vital to ensure an equitable sharing of resources and preventing conflicts.
3. Environmental impacts: Proper watershed management includes considerations for water quality, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. Environmental changes upstream, such as deforestation, urbanization, and pollution, can directly affect downstream ecosystems and the well-being of communities relying on them.
4. Long-term sustainability: Effective water resource management focuses on long-term sustainability, ensuring a continuous supply for all users. By involving all stakeholders, including upstream and downstream residents, a collaborative approach can be adopted to address issues like pollution, water conservation, flood control, and drought preparedness collectively.
To summarize, the responsible management of water resources in a watershed requires the participation and involvement of all individuals living within it, not just those residing downstream. Cooperation and collaboration among upstream and downstream communities are crucial for maintaining water quality, quantity, and sustainability for current and future generations.