Why Watershed Organizing Works

Rivers are far more than the waters within their banks. They are the hearts of flowing, living freshwater systems that include groundwater, springs, wetlands, ponds, streams, lakes and estuaries. These systems reflect the natural characteristics of their basins and the effects of all human activities within them.

Every one of us lives in a watershed. Everything we do can affect water, people and natural systems downslope and downstream. One simple, popular definition of the term "watershed" is "communities connected by water."

Because of the intricate connections between waters, lands and people, river conservation work encourages whole-system, long-term thinking, organizing and action. In fact, successful river conservation work requires it.

There is power and magic in this fact. Perhaps no other human endeavor forces us to apply so many disciplines; look at issues from so many perspectives; or connect so many economic, social and environmental concerns. In an age when our society desperately needs something to counter the forces that tend to separate us daily, river conservation provides it. Watersheds are literally common ground.

A watershed-oriented approach to analysis, planning and action provides a superior framework for addressing not only water issues, but many social and other environmental issues as well. In recent years, this approach has been embraced by thousands of individuals, communities, businesses, organizations and agencies as the principal tool for environmental protection and resource management.