Watershed Policy for Jamaica.

This policy on watershed management in Jamaica sets out the principles that should guide decision-making by agencies having functions in relation to watersheds. The Policy builds on the already agreed National Integrated Watershed Management Programmatic Framework and supports the continuing efforts to define and clarify roles, responsibilities, programmes and actions. It is intended to guide all watershed management activities and legislative initiatives carried out over the next five years by government departments and agencies, private sector interests and donor agencies. It will be monitored and adjusted as necessary to ensure relevance and usefulness as a management tool. The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) will exercise this monitoring function.
The Policy is divided into three sections: Section 1 provides a context for the Policy, giving by way of Background, a brief description of the physical location of Jamaica’s watersheds, and provides a concise overview of past efforts at watershed management in Jamaica. Section 2 sets out the current situation. This includes: 1. Presenting a synopsis of watershed condition and problems; 2. Highlighting the causes and effects of degradation; 3. Setting out the International Conventions and other instruments which influence Watershed Policy nationally and internationally; 4. Giving an overview of the prevailing domestic legislative, institutional and policy frameworks within which watersheds in Jamaica are managed; 5. The work of key significant watersheds management projects are also highlighted in this Section. The Section ends with a summary of the issues and concerns that the Policy seeks to address. These include governance (legislative and institutional frameworks; human, technical, and financial resources requirements, as well as public awareness, and land use capabilities. In Section 3, the Government’s vision, policy goals and objectives are set out; the principles that guide the policies and proposed strategies and actions are enunciated; and the mandates of various entities are identified in so far as they affect watersheds management.
The specific Policy Goals are summarised as follows: A coherent and rationalized legislative and institutional framework for the integrated Management of watersheds on a sustainable basis is put in place; Provision and development of adequate human resources for effective Watershed Management; Adequate financing for watershed management is secured; Availability of improved technical capacity for effective watershed management; Increased public awareness for improved participation in watershed management; Initiatives to encourage proper Land Use supported. A Plan for the Implementation of the Strategies is included in this Policy Document as Appendix 2. While maintaining its overall co-ordinating function, NEPA will seek to facilitate the management of watersheds by establishing linkages and partnerships with other Central Government agencies, the Parish Councils, NGOs and the Private Sector. The Policy sets out the functions and responsibilities of the principal agencies involved in watershed management. The Government is committed to community participation in managing the country’s natural resources.