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The degradation of environment in the dryland areas is basically attributed to the increasing biotic pressure on the fragile ecosystems in the absence of adequate investment and appropriate management practices to augment and conserve the land and water resources. Population growth and poverty on the one hand and the pressure of rising demand from affluence and consumerism on the other, have been exerting powerful pressure on the ecosystems. Besides, the macro-economic policies, which provide inducement to overexploitation of natural resources, are also responsive for denudation of environment. Addressing the wide spectrum of issues relating to ecological challenges and human response, the present book covers all important aspects of watershed development which are needed for a proper grounding in watershed management for agencies and people involves in it.  The book has been written keeping in view all the problems faced by planners, implementors and field workers and tries to cater to their requirements. It has been intended as a comprehensive guide, full of practical tips for those working in the field of watershed management from either governmental or non-governmental organizations. The book could also be used by students in agriculture, forestry and engineering colleges and institutions. Noteworthy is the fact that this  all-inclusive manual will be the first of its kind that will solve innumerable problems of the field workers who run from pillar to post in search of solutions.    

Contents: 1. Philosophy and Concept of Watershed. 2. Soils.3. Soil Erosion. 4. Land Capability Classification. 5. Rainfall and Runoff. 6. Topographic Surveying. 7. Participatory Rural Appraisal in Watershed Programme. 8. Community Mobilisation and Participatory Institution-Building. 9. Use of Remote Sensing Thematic Maps. 10. Indigenous Soil and Water Conservation Practices and Agronomic Measures. 11. Erosion Control Measures on Agricultural Land. 12. Mechanical Erosion Control Measures for Non-Agricultural Land. 13. Water Conservation and Harvesting. 14. Groundwater Management in Watershed. 15. Nursery Raising and Community Plantation. 16. Grassland Management. 17. Agro-Forestry Systems. 18. Horticulture Development. 19. Joint Forestry Management in Watershed. 20. Common Property Resource Management in Watershed Areas. 21. Empowerment of Women and Other Gender Issues. 22. Equity Issues in Watershed Management. 23. Financial Management and Accounting Procedures. 24 .Monitoring and Evaluation in Watersheds.