Question

Which of the followings are the principles of watershed management?
(A). Utilizing the land according to its capability
(B). Maintaining adequate vegetative cover
(C). Increasing groundwater recharge
(D). Draining out excess water with a safe velocity
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (B), (C) and (D) only.
• C. (B) and (C).
• D. (A), (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Remember the three pillars of watershed management:
1. Soil Conservation (preventing soil loss)
2. Water Conservation (recharge and storage)
3. Biomass Management (vegetative cover and sustainable land use)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Watershed management involves the rational utilization of land, water, and vegetation resources within a watershed to protect soil, conserve water, and minimize natural hazards.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze each statement against the core principles of watershed management:
- Statement (A): Utilizing land according to its capability class (such as forest land, pasture land, or arable land) prevents land degradation and ensures long-term sustainability. This is a primary principle.
- Statement (B): Vegetative cover (grasses, trees, crops) protects the soil surface from the direct impact of raindrops, reduces runoff velocity, and enhances infiltration. This is a key principle.
- Statement (C): Capturing rainwater through trenches, ponds, and bunds helps slow down runoff, allowing more water to percolate into the soil profile and recharge aquifers. This is a critical principle.
- Statement (D): While conserving water is important, extreme rainfall events generate excess runoff.
This excess water must be safely guided out of the watershed through structured channels (like grassed waterways) at a non-erosive (safe) velocity to prevent gully formation. This is a key engineering principle.
Since all four statements represent fundamental principles, they are all correct.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The correct option is (D), which includes (A), (B), (C), and (D).