water is one of the most important sources of life and forms the foundation of agricultural development and rural livelihoods. The proper use and protection of this vital...
Date of Event: February 20, 2026 Location: Chesht-e Sharif District, Herat Province Organizer: AYA Volunteers Team – Herat Target Group: Farmers, livestock owners, and local elders Topic: Proper use and sustainable management of surface and groundwater resources
Introduction:
Given the increasing challenges caused by water shortages, climate change, declining groundwater levels, and the growing need for effective natural resource management, the AYA Volunteers Team in Herat Province organized an awareness session for farmers in Chesht-e Sharif District. The aim of this program was to raise awareness among local communities about the responsible use of surface and groundwater resources, reduce water wastage, and promote sustainable water resource management practices.
Water is one of the most vital resources for life and forms the foundation of agricultural development and rural livelihoods. Therefore, the proper use and protection of this essential resource is a shared responsibility of all members of society.
Program Flow:
The session began with a welcome to the participants and an introduction to the objectives of the program. Then, facilitators from the AYA Volunteers Team provided comprehensive information on the status of water resources, the importance of water conservation, and the role of local communities in its sustainable management.
During the program, the following key topics were discussed:
The importance of surface and groundwater resources in meeting agricultural and livelihood needs The negative consequences of excessive water consumption on the environment and the future of agriculture The impact of drought and climate change on regional water resources Methods to reduce water loss in agricultural lands The importance of modern and efficient irrigation methods Protection of springs, karezes (qanats), rivers, and groundwater resources Prevention of water pollution caused by waste and chemical substances The role of cooperation and coordination among farmers in shared water management
It was also explained to participants that excessive extraction of groundwater without considering the natural capacity of resources can lead to a decline in water levels, drying of wells, and serious problems for future generations.
Participation and Experience Exchange:
An important part of the program was dedicated to open discussion and exchange of experiences among farmers. Participants raised their concerns and challenges related to water shortages, recent droughts, and water management in their agricultural lands.
Farmers also shared their successful experiences in water conservation, proper irrigation scheduling, and protection of local water resources with other participants. This enriched the discussions and enhanced mutual learning.
Achievements and Outcomes of the Program:
This session resulted in several valuable achievements, including:
Increased awareness among farmers about the importance of sustainable water resource management Improved knowledge regarding the consequences of irresponsible water use Encouragement of farmers to adopt efficient and cost-effective irrigation methods Strengthened responsibility of local communities in protecting water resources Promotion of a culture of water conservation and reduction of wastage Increased cooperation among farmers for better management of shared water resources Enhanced awareness about protecting groundwater for future generations
Conclusion:
The awareness session on the proper use of surface and groundwater resources was successfully conducted by the AYA Volunteers Team in Chesht-e Sharif District of Herat Province. Participants warmly welcomed the program and emphasized the need for continued educational activities, expressing their readiness to cooperate in better protection and management of water resources.
This program demonstrated that awareness-raising and active participation of local communities can play an effective role in reducing water wastage, protecting natural resources, and strengthening agricultural sustainability. The AYA Volunteers Team remains committed to continuing such educational and awareness programs in the future to promote a culture of environmental protection and enhance the capacity of local communities in Herat and other regions of the country.