Enhancing citizen engagement in water resources management

The world is currently facing serious water challenges that require an unprecedented global response. The present study proposes a multidisciplinary and dynamic approach to enhance citizen involvement in water resources management. It was conducted in Ave river, a medium-large sized river located in the Northwest region of Portugal, and the target groups were the inhabitants of Guimarães’ parishes crossed by Ave river (45.000 inhabitants), particularly students (aged 6 to 18), the green volunteers of each parish, and parish council mayors. For a year, the ecological quality and the biodiversity of Ave river was monitored at 11 sampling sites, and mitigation and restoration measures to be done with the citizens were promoted. Additionally, more than 120 environmental education theoretical and practical actions were carried out to empower target groups with tools to track freshwater quality, to debate opinions, and to standardize procedures among parishes (e.g., clean-up and rehabilitation actions). Actions also included discussions with citizens, researchers, local authorities, and governmental entities about citizens’ concerns, as well as proposing measures that reconnect citizens with local rivers. Citizens’ engagement in water resources management has fostered good environmental practices and has increased society's awareness of green policies.