Sustainable Management of Headwater Resources: Research from Africa and India

River headwaters are the primary source of fresh water for millions of people downstream, particularly in Africa and India. Acting as drainage basins for water runoff from the surrounding land, headwaters are threatened by runoff pollutants, erosion, and reduced drainage caused by overdevelopment. Sustainable Management of Headwater Resources provides both an overview and scientific analyses of local and regional headwater issues in India and Africa. The authors analyze the current situation through field experiments that provide reliable information on the status of headwater resources in these regions. The book discusses current and future problems, including those caused by land degradation, natural hazards, and the development processes. It offers ideas for developing better land management, environmental protection, and landscape regeneration practices and policies. The authors also address the many challenges that remain, such as fostering community participation, the role of education, effectiveness and limits of current technology, and the sustainability of current activities.