The Profile of Umalad Watershed in Roxas, Palawan

Abstract

The access in fresh water supply in Roxas is mostly from Umalad watershed. Majority of the households’ water consumption in Poblacion is supplied by the shed. This study used the descriptive qualitative method in determining water quality and quantity, watershed ecosystem, management activities, conservation and restoration, monitoring, and sustainability. The findings were the water from Umalad watershed is safe to drink; 7 plants/tree recommended for watershed are found in the area; management is concentrated on extensive annual tree planting; sustainability of the watershed depends primarily on the presence of adequate vegetation; stressors found in the area charcoal making, slash and burn activities, presence of residents and logging. It could be concluded that the Umalad watershed has quality control as to the safety of water; stressors in the area affects the sustainability of the water quantity along the minimal government intervention in the management of the watershed. It is recommended that vegetation in the area should be properly monitored and maintained; plans and strategies should be implemented effectively; legislations against charcoal making slash and burn activities and logging in the area should be strictly implemented; residents present in the area can be considered as co-managers of the watershed; analysis of the water coming from the household faucets as distributed by the Roxas Water District (RWD) is recommended.