This association of 27 village water committees located in the southern buffer zone of Honduras’ Pico Bonito National Park oversees the management of micro-watersheds and trains the local community in reforestation, conservation and the application of environmentally friendly technologies. A primary focus is ensuring local access to potable water in a region prone to shortages. The association made the connection between declining freshwater supply and deforestation, unsustainable agricultural practices, ranching and firewood collection taking place in local watersheds.

The association links water committees who are responsible for maintaining water delivery systems, protecting water ‘recharge’ zones, and both collecting and regulating water-use fees. The association has reforested more than 120 hectares of land with native tree species. It has grown from 4 to 27 water committees and served as a learning model for more than 80 across the north coast of the country. The association has also provided its constituent communities with access to ‘eco-stoves’.

 

Key Facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2012

Founded: 2003

Location: Aguan River Valley watershed, Olanchito

Beneficiaries: 11,000 people in 27 communities

Biodiversity: Pico Bonito National Park

 

Case Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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