Development of a Strategic Plan for Waterways Management and Conservation

Developing a strategic plan for management and conservation of rivers and waterways is one of the fundamental goals in the watershed management and natural resources activities and serve as an effective way for controlling waterway erosion and water resources degradation. This plan is a strategy to guide the management and conservation of waterways and floodways through the next 10 years. The strategy considers the rivers and waterways as it relates to the overall mission of the Soil Conservation and Watershed Management Research Center of. The plan also considers and promotes the values of teamwork, professionalism, and quality. Progress on this plan will be evaluated annually, prior to the development of annual budget and work program for the following fiscal year. The plan will serve as a guidepost in establishing priorities, pursuing new initiatives, devoting staff time and resources to specific work assignments, and seeking appropriate training to further the growth and development of rivers and waterways. The strategic plan includes the following areas: Collect and analyze data to assess the condition of rivers and waterways in the selected basin. Organize, maintain, and distribute data and information for management of effective rivers and waterways. Develop and implement data processing guidelines to collect, store, retrieve, and disseminate rivers and waterways resource and geospatial data. Develop integrated data and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications to support river engineering programs and projects. Use monitoring and assessment data to identify priority areas for implementing river conservation and restoration activities. Conduct demonstration projects based on priorities identified by comprehensive Watershed management programs. Support and assist water quality monitoring and improving efforts to meet the required standards and promote consistent, sound surface water quality practices. Develop and implement flood-flow and low-flow management plans in rivers and streams to protect in and outstream uses. Use monitoring and assessment data to identify areas vulnerable to erosion and to prioritize areas for protection activities. Develop, upgrade and localize guidelines and techniques for structural and bio-engineering practices in rivers and waterways to protect against erosion and flooding. Work cooperatively with other agencies, organizations to develop or revise appropriate legislation and policies and to provide appropriate input regarding new regulations, initiatives, and waterway problems pertinent to watershed management activities. Improve and diversify staff capability to implement established goals. Provide training to each member to enhance staff expertise and efficiency in performing work assignments, as well as encourage certification in appropriate fields. Attend conferences related to program activities and encourage membership in professional societies and organizations to assist staff in remaining current in staff fields of expertise. Promote teamwork to effectively utilize staff expertise to accomplish program objectives.