NATIONAL INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT POLICY

What is Water Resources Management?

 A process which promotes the coordinated development and management of

water, land and related resources in order to maximize the economic and social
welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital
ecosystems.

 The mission involves the effective management of the country’s water resources
and promotion of conservation, development and protection of these resources
for sustainable use in a cost-effective and integrated manner to support socio-
economic growth.

 Therefore the goal includes:

 To support the socio-economic development of Trinidad and Tobago

through the integrated management of the water resources and water
environment.
 Satisfying and managing the growing demands for all water users in an
efficient and effective manner.
 Maintaining and/or enhancing the quality of the environment and integrity
of ecosystems.

Importance of Water Resources Management

 Water is a limited (finite) and vulnerable resource that is essential for economic
growth and environmental and social well-being.

 The freshwater resources are under increasing pressure because of the actions
that we undertake for development (land use).

 Water is in crisis and many persons lack access to adequate water supply and
sanitation because of inadequate or improper practices rather than water
shortages.