Integrated Catchment Management

In South Africa water and sanitation are deemed basic human rights necessary for human life and development, illustrated by the phrase “some, for all, forever”. Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) is the foundation of water provision for humans and aquatic / riparian ecosystems, and forms the basis of sustainable water resource management. Integrated Catchment Management (ICM) is regarded as the overarching paradigm for effectively implementing IWRM. This course provides students with an introduction to the philosophy and practice of sustainable water resources management, based on South African and international catchment research and experience. Catchments produce runoff, making water available for the environment and for human use. Catchments comprise complex biophysical, socio-economic and political / governance processes and systems. The natural and anthropogenic processes and activities that take place on the catchment land surface affect the quantity and quality of runoff reaching rivers. Water resource managers need to understand these complex systems to ensure sustainable water security, in terms of both quality and quantity for the environment and for development. Learning is conducted through directed readings and critical engagement with material during discussions and seminars. Field work is an important part of the course, taking place as day visits in Makhanda and Riebeek East. The course includes presentations from several practitioners in the water sector. Week Three is presented by Julia Heemstra, the founder and coordinator of the AMANZI: Water to Schools (https://amanzi2schools.org/) projects in Makhanda and Riebeeck East.