Participatory integrated watershed management : evolution of concepts and methods

Abstract

This paper focuses on the conceptual evolution of watershed management within the context of an action research program operating in the highlands of eastern Africa, as informed by both theory and practice. After situating the AHI watershed program within the global context, the paper explores the conceptual underpinnings of watershed management within AHI. The paper summarizes progress made thus far in conceptualizing “watershed issues” (NRM problems at landscape or watershed scale and related incentives) and “stakeholders”, and how such clarifications have helped to operationalize “integration” and “participation” in watershed management. By discussing these concepts one by one in the context of an implementation process, the influence of practice (approaches and lessons) on the program’s conceptual development are brought to light. The paper concludes with a discussion of implications for agricultural R&D in the eastern African region.