Water conservation ponds in Nepal

Abstract

In Nepal, increasingly irregular rainfall patterns have been affecting the livelihoods of Nepalese farmers. Households face water shortages during the pre-monsoon season, between March and May, as well as during post-monsoon and winter, between October and February. In this context, it is essential to guarantee water supply throughout the year in order to reduce vulnerability of farmers caused by erratic rainfall patterns. Water conservation ponds prove a strategic adaptation practice, collecting rain water and replenishing groundwater reserves during the monsoon, as well as preventing excessive erosion and surface runoff down landslides slopes. In addition, the availability of water during dry season is key for traditional rural livelihoods, such as livestock and crop cultivation, as well as in the development of new activities, providing habitat for fish-raising. Additional advantages include the stabilization and re-vegetation of gullies, water availability for cultivation of small-scale fodder, vegetables and fruit trees along the boundaries of the pond, irrigation of kitchen gardens during dry periods and manure from dredged silt.