Table 11. Ten useful watershed conservation principles.*

  1. For watershed conservation approach to work, there must be widespread recognition that social, economic, and environmental values are compatible.
  2. Successful watershed conservation requires the formation and support of diverse partnerships under the authority of landowners and other local interest.
  3. Leadership is critical in the watershed approach to conservation.
  4. A good coordinator is key to successful watershed conservation projects.
  5. The best plans have clear visions, goals, and action items.
  6. Good tools (planning guides, technical assistance, and funding sources) are available to help watershed groups achieve their goals.
  7. It is important to start small and demonstrate success before working on larger scales, celebrating even minor success as it occurs.
  8. Plans are most likely to succeed in implemented on a manageable scale.
  9. Public awareness, education and involvement are keys to building and maintaining support for watershed conservation efforts.
  10. Measuring and communicating progress is essential to the success of watershed conservation efforts.

*For EPA Publication 840-F-97-001, call the National Center for Environmental Publications and Information at 1-800-490-9198.

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