Water : local-level management

Summary of the results of three decades of IDRC-supported research on water supply which demonstrates that some of the most powerful responses to water scarcities have been mounted at the community or local level. Field research is examined in three approaches to local water management: small-scale water supply; wastewater treatment and reuse; and watershed management and irrigation. Solidly grounded propositions with a focus on research findings, and failures are presented for decision-makers and researchers. Recommendations are given for policy design and future research efforts on local water management. Future directions are plotted where progress can be accelerated in the science and in the conduct of local water management.