A participatory approach to watershed management : The Brazilian system

摘要: : Brazil is currently facing the challenge of implementing a new water resources management system to promote rational and sustainable use country's waters. This based on following principles management: (2) stakeholders' participation; watershed as planning unit; (3) economic value water. Stakeholders' participation involvement civil society in decision making process guaranteed by permanent seats watersheds' committees. These committees are highest level for establishment policy its use. The executive branch agency or agency. paper presents recently approved Brazilian discusses participatory approach followed validate ensure prompt response decisions regarding all stakeholders. formulation National Water Law (January/1998) was also supported extensive consultation with society, professional associations, state municipal governments well federal governmental agencies private sector organizations. It an overview Law. Finally, have been created already operating limited number watersheds, some major obstacles success discussed along alternatives overcoming such obstacles.