Assessing water use and quality through youth participatory research in a rural Andean watershed

摘要: Abstract Water availability, use and quality in a rural watershed of the Colombian Andes were investigated through participatory research involving local youth. Research included quantification disaggregated water at household level; comparison with availability; monitoring streams, community intakes faucets; determination land – interactions. Youth involved all aspects from design to implementation, dissemination results remediation options. Quantification domestic on-farm use, availability indicated that was sufficient during study period, but only an 8% decrease dry season supply would result shortages. Elevated conductivity levels headwaters related “natural” bank erosion, while downstream high coliform associated discharges livestock stalls poorly maintained septic tanks stream buffer zone. Through involvement youth as co-investigators, knowledge generated by appropriated level. Community workshops led promoted conservation protection practices based on research, resulted broader participation management. The approach stimulated improved management both resources, could be applied small watersheds developed or developing countries.