Executive Summary
SAP-Bermejo River Basin
STRATEGIC ACTION PROGRAM FOR THE
BINATIONAL BASIN OF THE BERMEJO RIVER
Executive Summary
Introduction
The Bermejo River Basin, in southern South Amer-
ica, extends over some 123,000 km2, originating in the
Andes Mountains of northwestern Argentina and
southern Bolivia. The river, which flows some 1,300
km, links two major geographic features: the Andean
Cordillera and the Paraguay-Paraná Rivers. It is the
only river that crosses completely the huge expanse of
the Chaco Plains, acting as a corridor for the connection
of biotic elements of both the Andean mountains and the
Chaco Plains. Radically differing weather and topo-
graphic conditions in the large basin promote an array of
rain forests, humid valleys, and mountain deserts in the
Upper Basin and dry forests as well as humid and gal-
lery forests in the Lower Basin. There is exceptional
habitat diversity along the water course.
Sediment loadings in the Bermejo waters are some
of the highest in the world (8 kg/m3). Total discharge of
sediment is on the order of 100 million tons/year. The
greater part of the sediment is produced in the Upper
Basin and flushed down during peak floods. The
amount of sediment deposited along the course of the
Lower Basin during floods regularly changes the course
of the river, impeding a rational use of water and land
resources. The population is estimated at 1.2 million,
the majority being rural workers, small farmers, and in-
digenous communities, with the lowest levels of in-
vestment, and provide for rational and equitable use of
come, education ,and sanitary conditions. The basin has
its water resources. In 1995, the Binational Commis-
a history of "extractive" exploitation of forests, which
sion requested GEF assistance for the preparation of a
has resulted in diminished biodiversity and impover-
water resources management program in the binational
ished natural resources. Clearing of land for cultivation
watershed. This assistance, provided through a PDF
and widespread overgrazing has created problems of
Block B Grant, helped with the preparation of a proj-
erosion and desertification, aggravating sediment mobi-
ect proposal for the formulation of a Strategic Action
lization that has contributed to downstream environ-
Program (SAP), seeking to solve the priority trans-
mental degradation.
boundary environmental problems affecting the basin,
To promote development in the region, both gov-
particularly soil erosion and sedimentation, water deg-
ernments have agreed to construct a series of mult i-
radation, and biodiversity loss.
purpose water resources development projects in the
The preparation of the SAP, between 1997 and
Upper basin. Bidding for their construction has al-
1999, comprised the identification of priority trans-
ready been initiated. Other provincial and local proj-
boundary environmental concerns and related sectoral
ects are also underway or planned. In 1995, the two
issues; the implementation of pilot demonstration
governments created a Binational Commission as a
projects to assess the feasibility and relative costs of
permanent legal and technical mechanism responsible
specific remedial measures; and the establishment of a
for managing the Upper Bermejo and Grande de Tarija
comprehensive public participation and consultation
River basins, seeking to achieve the sustainable devel-
process for the planning and implementation of devel-
opment of its area of influence, optimize the use of its
opment projects in the basin. This Executive Summary
natural resources, generate employment, attract in-
1

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
summarizes the major find-
dialogue between decision-
ings and recommendations of
The development of the SAP was
makers and local communities.
the two year SAP planning
the outcome of a highly transpa-
The present project is proposed
phase.
as a means of giving effect to
rent, public interaction process..
The development of the
this concept. It draws upon
The public was not only consulted
SAP was the outcome of a
the results of studies and pilot
highly transparent, public
throughout the SAP formulation
demonstration projects com-
interaction process that has
process, but actively participated
pleted prior to and during the
identified community-based
process of completing the
in it.
mechanisms for the protec-
Transboundary Diagnostic
tion of the water resources of
Analysis (TDA) and develop-
this Plata Basin tributary river system. The public was
ing the SAP, and seeks to facilitate actions by the gov-
not only consulted throughout the SAP formulation
ernments of Argentina and Bolivia to promote sustain-
process, but actively participated in it. The effort in-
able development in the binational and interjurisdic-
volved work by community level organizations, non-
tional basin of the Rio Bermejo (CBRB).
governmental institutions, official local, state and fed-
To begin the process of implementing the develop-
eral agencies, and the private sector. A total of 260
mental and environmental guidelines of the SAP, a
consultants were hired to produce specific studies, im-
small part of the total program included in the SAP
plement pilot demonstration projects, and collaborate
was selected. They comprise a specific set of high
in preparing the final reports. Overall, more than 70
priority, incremental activities that will lay the
different institutions have directly or indirectly partic i-
groundwork for the execution, on a participatory and
pated in the process. There were 12 regional work-
sustainable basis, of the larger set of remaining
shops or seminars involving approximately 1,300 par-
strategic actions. Successful implementation of these
ticipants. The workshops identified major problems,
actions will provide support to the efforts of local,
their causes and possible solutions. Also, as a result of
regional, national, and binational institutions in
these workshops, a series of working groups of gov-
starting to address the principal causes of the envi-
ernment, civil society, and local experts were estab-
ronmental problems affecting the Bermejo Basin--
lished to accompany the SAP preparation process. A
erosion, sedimentation, water scarcity and availability
Web page was established, which not only promoted
restrictions, water resource degradation, loss of biodi-
access to a steady stream of preliminary reports and
versity, losses due to floods and other natural hazard
information about study conclusions, but also facili-
events, and diminished quality of life and endangered
tated an interactive discussion forum for preliminary
cultural resources--and will set the path toward the
findings and recommendations
sustainable development of the CBRB.
As a result of this process, an expectancy has been
The four components that together embrace all
created among the riparian communities of greater
project activities are: (1) institutional development and
citizen involvement in the management of the land and
strengthening for integrated planning and manage-
water resources of the Basin. While this expectancy
ment; (2) environmental protection and rehabilitation;
differs in quality between the Bolivian portions of the
(3) sustainable development of natural resources; and,
Basin--where public participation has been an ele-
(4) public awareness and participation. These priority
ment of governmental planning for some time, under
components have been identified through a process of
the law for popular participation--and the Argentine
broad-based public participation. Their activities and
portions, the basic concept is one of public involve-
associated costs are detailed below.
ment in the sustainable use and protection of the Ba-
sin's land and water resources through a process of
2

---

Executive Summary
SAP-Bermejo River Basin
THE BOTTOM LINE
Major findings of the transboundary diagnos-
opment potential of otherwise favorable agricul-
tic analysis are listed below.
tural production zones. Irrigation is a clear eco-
nomic as well as social priority.
Soil Degradation
§ Studies found that more than 50% of the binational
Loss of Biodiversity and Biotic Resources
basin is subject to erosion processes that range
§ The clearing of land for cultivation, and the in-
from significant to very severe. While both erosion
tense selective exploitation of forest resources,
and desertification are clearly related to natural
have modified the natural endowment of the Ba-
conditions of topography, soil susceptibility, and
sin. The study showed that severe or very severe
torrential rain patterns, it is evident that human
deforestation is affecting 26% of its natural for-
activities have been decisive in accelerating both
ests, and 15% of its total area is at risk for major
processes during the last 50 years. Studies indi-
biodiversity loss. Moreover, data shows an
cate that more than 60% of the rangelands of the
alarming increase in deforestation rates during the
Bermejo Basin are either overgrazed or improperly
last three decades.
managed.
§ Twenty-four species of flora and fauna have al-
§ Small-scale sediment control methods tested in the
ready been categorized as vulnerable. Eighteen of
Tolomosa subbasin produced cost-effective de-
these are at risk.
signs that could help reduce transboundary sedi-
§ Pilot studies conducted suggest that community-
ment load and achieve local benefits by providing
extension programs aimed at promoting sustain-
irrigation for small farmers, improving local agr i-
able production alternatives, and the creation of
culture and/or protecting local reservoirs. Other
integrated community-based units in the Basin to
soil management demonstration projects, carried
serve the ecotourism market, are viable means of
out during the study in the Central Valley of Tarija
preserving remaining areas of natural habitat in the
in the Upper Basin, showed promise and may be
region.
replicable.
§ Buffer zones should be used more extensively to
§ Severe and very severe salinization is affecting
reduce human impact on fragile ecosystems, and
primarily the semiarid-Chaco region. Desertifica-
the creation of environmental corridors linking ar-
tion is already affecting 38% of the overall basin
eas of significant habitat value was seen as a crit i-
area, 18% under severe and very severe condi-
cal action. Favorable experience with these ap-
tions.
proaches in the Yungas Cloud Forest region of
Argentina and Bolivia can be replicated in the
Water Resource Degradation
Lower Basin.
§ While not yet a major transboundary problem,
§ Further research is clearly needed on the biodiver-
water quality protection and restoration is a
sity resources of the Basin, especially in its lower
growing concern as the Bermejo region develops.
reaches. The study reaffirmed the importance of
In the Bolivian section of the Upper Basin, where
making a careful analysis of biodiversity issues
water-quality deterioration problems appear to be
within large river basins, particularly regarding
localized, 68% of the surveyed sites had restric-
biological corridors.
tions by bacteriological contamination.
Floods and Other Natural Hazard Events
Water Scarcity and Availability Restrictions
§ Natural disasters have severely affected both rural
and urban infrastructure and economic production
§ Water supply is a serious problem in the Basin.
systems (mainly crop and cattle areas). Flood
The extreme water shortage during the dry season,
events, caused primarily by river overflows during
affecting almost a third of the Basin area, not only
the rainy season, severely affect 7% of the Basin
diminishes the living conditions of an already de-
area, including the city of Tarija in Bolivia. In
prived local population, but also limits the devel-
3

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
Chaco Province alone, more than 390,000 hectares
Causal Chain Relationship
were flooded during the 1983-84 season.
§ Waterlogging, which occurs in the Lower Basin,
The analysis of the causal-chain relationships pro-
affects 7% of the Basin area. Other natural events
vided information on the underlying basic actions that
like drought, hail, and freezes occur primarily in
were originating and/or exacerbating the effect of each
the Eastern Cordillera, affecting agricultural pro-
environmental problem identified. Basic causes (natu-
duction and forcing seasonal migration of rural
ral and man-made) specifically related to each of the
populations.
priority environmental problems were identified and
discussed in a participatory manner, through a series of
regional workshops, seminars, and meetings of spe-
Diminished Quality of Life and
cialized working groups. For those causes of human
Endangered Cultural Resources
origin, five appeared common to the priority environ-
Moderate and extreme poverty is widespread in
mental problems identified. These are: (1) deficient
the basin, affecting particularly small farmers, native
political, legal, and institutional framework; (2) poor
indigenous populations, and marginal urban centers.
planning and inter-jurisdictional coordination; (3) in-
Data collected during the planning phase show over
adequate community awareness, knowledge, and par-
40% of the population with unsatisfied basic needs. A
ticipation in sustainable resource management; (4) de-
large number of the population are illiterate, and most
ficient financial and support mechanisms; and, (5) in-
have no access to medical care.
adequate access to and application of sustainable tech-
§ Permanent and temporary migration of seasonal
nologies for economic production. For basin
workers constitutes an important transboundary
stakeholders, these issues constituted a constant threat
symptom of prevalent poverty and unemployment.
to the stability, conservation, and protection of their
A socioeconomic survey conducted in Tarija, Bo-
sensitive land, as well as an obstacle to the adequate
livia, indicated that more than 32% of the popula-
management of natural resources and the formulation
tion has gone at least once to Argentina in search
of sustainable development programs. Therefore, spe-
of employment opportunities and better living
cific activities oriented to address each of these root
conditions. These processes increase human pres-
causes were prioritized by the community and form
sure on the limited available natural resources, and
the basis of the set of actions proposed in the SAP.
promote unsustainable production practices.
Figure 1 presents a summarized causal-chain relation-
ship diagram, indicating the basic common causes, and
direct causes--both from natural and human origin--
related to the identified priority environmental prob-
lems.
4

---

Executive Summary
SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Figure 1. CAUSAL CHAIN RELATIONSHIP FOR PRIORITY ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
Direct Causes
Direct Causes
Environmental
(human origin)
(natural origin)
Problems
§ Destruction of vegetative cover by defo-
Soil Degradation
restation and overgrazing
Adverse natural
§ Clearing of land for agricultural activities
conditions (soil,
Common Basic
topography,
geology, climate)
Causes
§
Contamination by industrial and urban
Water Resource De-
wastes
gradation
§ Water misuse and contamination by
§ Deficient political, legal,
agricultural and livestock activities
and institutional fra-
mework
§
Rainfall seasona-
§ Poor inter-jurisdictional
lity
Water Scarcity and
planning and coordination
§
Reduced water
§
Inadequate water infrastructure
Availability Restrictions
§ Inadequate community
availability in the dry
§
Depletion of groundwater supplies
awareness, knowledge,
season
and participation in sus-
§ High sediment
tainable resource mana-
load and fluviomor-
gement
fologic dynamics
§
Over-exploitation of forest resources
§ Deficient financial and
§ High groundwater
§
Uncontrolled fishing and hunting activities
support mechanisms
Loss of Biodiversity
§
Clearing of land for agriculture
§ Inadequate access to
and
§
Inadequate agricultural practices
§
Overgrazing
and application of sustai-
§ Pollution of water sources
nable technologies
§
Extreme river
highflows
§ Extreme cli-
§
Urban expansion in flood-susceptible areas
matic events
Floods and Other Natural
§
Agricultural activities in areas prone to floo-
Hazard Events
ding events
§
Destruction of vegetative cover
§
Unemployment and seasonal sub-
Diminished Quality of Life
employment
and Endangered Cultural
§
Deficient health, sanitation and education
5
Resources
services.

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
PROPOSED STRATEGIES
As presented in the previ-
In many instances,
The SAP has been envisioned by Basin
ous section, six transboundary
while the root causes of
priority areas for ecosystem-
stakeholders as a long-term action
the priority environ-
level conservation, rehabilita-
plan, designed not only to address the
mental problems remain
tion, and preservation were
unchanged along the
root causes of the critical environ-
identified in the TDA: (1) soil
water-course, the spe-
degradation, primarily due to
mental degradation processes affect-
cific character and
erosion and desertification
ing the basin, but also to promote the
manifestation of the
processes; (2) water scarcity
issues varies in degree
sustainable development of basin
and availability restrictions;
between and among the
communities.
(3) water degradation; (4)
five ecoregions deline-
habitat and biodiversity losses
ated within the Basin.
and deterioration of terrestrial
For example, soil deg-
and aquatic biotic resources; (5) losses due to flood-
radation in the montane portions of the Basin often
related and other natural disasters; and, (6) deteriora-
results in sediment-related problems in the savannah
tion of quality of life of the Basin population and loss
portions. These include diminished opportunities to
of cultural resources. These issues are endemic
use the water resources of the Basin in a sustainable
throughout the Basin, and most have both a natural
manner, impairing public health and welfare; loss of
and an anthropogenic component.
and damage to infrastructure and economic develo p-
The analysis of their basic and direct causes was
ment potential; and undesirable biological impacts on
the subject of an extensive public consultation process,
both terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna. Such is-
the results of which defined the strategic actions in-
sues also involve policies and practices at all levels of
cluded in the SAP. To this end, a comprehensive list
society that result in a fragmented and sectoral view of
of current and planned programs and projects related
the Basin that exacerbate the localized and basin-wide
to sustainable development and environment for the
manifestations of these impacts.
region was compiled during the initial stages of the
On the basis of an evaluation of these issues and
SAP formulation process. Through consultation, those
their relative magnitudes, and taking into consideration
most relevant to the solution of the identified problems
the interrelationships between the issues and their
were selected, and included as part of the final SAP.
manifestations within the Basin, four priority actions
To help shape specific action proposals, pilot demon-
to address these issues were identified in the SAP.
stration projects were conducted in various represen-
These actions include:
tative areas during the planning phase.
§ Institutional strengthening and implementation of
The SAP has been envisioned by Basin
an effective legal framework for integrated land
stakeholders as a long-term action plan, designed not
and water resources planning/management within
only to address the root causes of the critical environ-
the Basin;
mental degradation processes affecting the basin, but
§ Prevention of environmental degradation and re-
also to promote the sustainable development of Basin
habilitation/protection of degraded environments;
communities. The program leading toward sustainable
§ Implementation of projects for sustainable water
development is composed of 136 projects, to be im-
use and natural resource management; and
plemented in a 20-year period, at a total investment of
§ Implementation of a program of consultation and
US$470 million. More than 70% of this amount (or
public participation for environmental protection
US$331 million) corresponds to water resource devel-
and management. Table 1 presents the long-term
opment projects, mainly structures for irrigation and
SAP and its components.
drinking-water supply, reflecting a long-awaited aspi-
ration of the Basin communities. The strengthening of
Basin institutions, the building of agency and organiza-
tional capacity, and the integration of environmental
concerns into economic development activities are also
key elements of the program.
6

---

Executive Summary
Table 1. Strategic Action Program for the Binational Basin Of The Bermejo River (Long-Term)
ENVIRONMENTAL
COSTS
PRIORITIES
STRATEGIC ACTIONS
ACTIVITIES
($x000)
§ Strengthening of the Binational Commission
720.0
§ Development, harmonization and enforcement of the legal framework
714.0
Soil Degradation
v Institutional Develo-
§ Sectoral and jurisdictional coordination and articulation.
195.0
pment And Strengthe-
§ Development of an Environmental Information System for the Basin
1,840.0
ning For Integrated
§ Formulation and implementation of integrated basin management plans, environmental
Water Scarcity and
Planning And Mana-
and land use zoning
1,100.0
Use Restrictions
gement
§ Institutional strengthening.
1,900.0
§ Development of economic instruments and financial mechanisms
558.0
Water Resource
§ Biodiversity and natural heritage protection.
2,936.0
Degradation
§ Strengthening and consolidation of the system of protected natural areas
28,258.0
v Environmental Protec-
§ Mitigation plans for flooding and other natural disasters.
tion And Rehabilitation
§ Contamination prevention and control, rehabilitation of water bodies.
41,925.0
Loss Of Biodiversity
§ Prevention and control of erosion and sedimentation
18,387.0
And Biotic Re-
6,790.0
sources
§ Development and implementation of integrated water management plans.
20,090.0
§ Sustainable management programs of natural resources at basin level.
Floods And Other
v Sustainable Develo-
§ Appropriate technologies, management practices and production methods.
250.0
Natural Hazard
pment Of Natural Re-
§ Sustainable water resources development and utilization projects
7,260.0
Events
sources
§ Research for natural resources development and management.
331,872.0
2,030.0
Diminished Quality
Of Life and Endan-
gered Cultural Re-
§ Strengthening of public participation in planning and implementation of actions for the de-
1,190.0
velopment and management of natural resources.
sources
v Public Awareness And
§ Environmental education and training programs for citizens.
1,160.0
Participation
§ Dissemination of sustainable technologies for production.
970.0
§ Access to and public dissemination of information to support decision making proc-
150.0
esses
TOTAL COSTS
470,295.0
8

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
SHORT-TERM ACTION PROGRAM
From each of the four strategic areas of the SAP, a
activity is intended to develop and broaden the partici-
small number of basic actions have been selected to
patory framework, including mechanisms for specific
provide the necessary legal and institutional frame-
participation by provincial governments, the Prefec-
work for the entire program, consolidate participatory
ture and municipalities of Tarija, and to strengthen the
mechanisms, and execute specific preventive and re-
capacities of the institutions that represent them. The
medial actions. The short-term SAP, to be imple-
estimated cost of Activity 1.1 is US$1,824,500. Ac-
mented in a four-year period, is considered to be of
tions under this activity include:
immediate priority, and will catalyze the implementa-
· Institutional development and strengthening of the
tion of specific actions necessary to address priority
Binational Commission for the integrated man-
transboundary problems identified during the SAP
agement of land and water resources of the Basin.
formulation process and to promote the sustainable de-
To foster institutional development at the bina-
velopment of the binational Basin. The activities, and
tional level in the Bermejo Basin that will permit
the components of each, are presented below and sum-
integrated and participatory planning and man-
marized in Table 2.
agement of the Basin's land and water resources.
· Institutional development for the integrated man-
COMPONENT I: INSTITUTIONAL
agement of the Basin at the interjurisdictional
DEVELOPMENT AND STRENGTHENING
level in Argentina. To support the institutional de-
velopment of the Regional Commission for the
Bermejo River with a view to establishing an in-
Activities undertaken within this component spe-
ter-jurisdictional entity for the Bermejo Basin in
cifically address weaknesses within the current organ-
Argentina.
izational base, identified during SAP formulation, that
· Institutional strengthening and capacity building
hinder the effective, holistic management of the water
for governmental and civil society organizations.
resources of the BRBB. This will ensure the institu-
To strengthen the capacities of governmental and
tional capacity to implement the new laws, regulations,
civil society organizations, within the Bermejo
and procedures necessary for the longer-term success
River Basin that have responsibilities for, or in-
of the watershed management measures by helping to
volvement in, the sustainable management of natu-
increase participation in decision-making within the
ral resources.
Basin, and enhance and underpin the ability of the Bi-
national Commission not only to carry out its current
Activity 1.2. Development of a holistic regional
mandate but also to assume additional responsibilities
legislative, economic, and environmental frame-
relating to information sharing and coordination
work
among stakeholders. The activities will include the
By designing and implementing legal and financial
following:
instruments and harmonizing standards for water-
quality management and land use in the basin, this ac-
Activity 1.1. Development and strengthening of the
tivity will serve to inform and involve water resource
institutional framework
professionals and others in the diagnosis and correc-
This activity is intended (1) to deepen and broaden
tion of environmental problems identified in the Ber-
activities initiated during the SAP formulation stage
mejo Basin. The estimated cost of Activity 1.2 is
with respect to implementation of the project and the
US$1,929,500. It includes the following specific ac-
coordination role of the Binational Commission, in-
tions:
cluding its institutional development as an agency for
the Basin, (2) to promote regional coordination and
programming, and (3) to address weaknesses in the
complex institutional framework that currently impede
a comprehensive vision of the Basin and the integrated
and sustainable management of its resources. This
8

---

Executive Summary SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Table 2. Proposed Short-Term Action Program (4 Years)
ACTIVITIES
COSTS
COMPONENTS
(US$000)
Develo-
§ Strengthening of the Binational Commission
pment/strengthening of
1,824.5
§ Strengthening of COREBE
the institutional fra-
mework
§ Strengthening of government and civil society orgs.
§ Harmonization of regional and jurisdictional legal frameworks
Development of a ho-
§ Environmental zoning for land-use regulation in selected areas
INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
listic regional legislati-
1,929.5
ve, economic and envi-
§ Economic instruments for sustainable water use
ronmental framework
§ Incorporation of environmental & social costs in project evaluation
§ Sediment control in the Tolomosa River basin
Soil management and
§ Integral mgnt. of natural resources in the Santa Ana River basin
erosion control in criti-
2,134.2
§ Integrated management of the Iruya River basin
cal areas
§ Soil loss prevention in the Huasamayo sub-basin
§ Ecotourism activities in piedmont transition forests
§ Carbon fixation in the Yungas
Consolidating protec-
1,786.0
§ Implementation of the Baritú-Tariquía biological corridor
ted areas and protec-
§ Management plan for Sama and Tariquía biological reserves
ting biodiversity
§ Evaluation of sub-Andean rangelands
§ Study and implementation of the Teuco National Park (Chaco region)
AND REHABILITATION
§ Biodiversity study
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
§ Environmental clean-up of the Guadalquivir River (pilot-scale waste-water
Protection and restora-
treatment plants in rural communities)
tion of water quality
326.5
§ Assessment and design of water-pollution control strategies in the Ber-
mejo Triangle
9

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
Implementation of a
planning framework for
2,675.9
§ Regional integrated program for water resource management,
integrated water re-
erosion and pollution control, and protection of natural areas
source management
§ Training and promotion of sustainable resource management
Sustainable practices
techniques in the humid and sub-humid Chaco
for rehabilitation of de-
2,393.1
graded areas in the
§ Diversification of production alternatives to reduce human pres-
Chaco and Yungas re-
sure on natural forest resources in the Yungas region
gions
§ Survey, assessment, validation and extention of traditional natu-
Community extention
ral resource management practices in representative areas of the
programs for sustain-
340.2
Bermejo River basin
able production and
natural resource man-
§ Promotion of sustainable production activities and natural re-
agement
source management in indigenous and native communities
OF NATURAL RESOURCES
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Sustainable agriculture
and soil conservation
243.0
§ Pilot project for testing and dissemination of soil and water man-
practices along the
agement techniques in irrigated farming along the San Jacinto
San Jacinto project
water reservoir area (Upper Bermejo)
area
§ Implementation of environmental awareness and training pro-
Environmental educa-
1,166.0
grams on sustainable resource use for different ecological re-
tion programs
gions of the Bermejo basin
§ Information dissemination, consultation workshops, and estab-
Public participation
532.3
lishment of suitable mechanisms for public participation in the
program
Bermejo river basin
SS &
AWARENESS &
PARTICIPATION
Information system for
§ Creation and implementation of an environmental information and
the Bermejo River
2,081.6
monitoring system
basin
TOTAL COSTS
17,432.8
10

---

Executive Summary SAP-Bermejo River Basin
COMPONENT II: ENVIRONMENTAL
· Development and harmonization of political and
PROTECTION AND REHABILITATION
legal frameworks for sustainable management of
water resources in the Basin. The purpose of this
Component II is designed to extend the imple-
activity is to promote action to establish common
mentation of feasible measures of basin management
environmental quality objectives and policies, and
identified during formulation of the SAP. Together
to foster the participatory formulation and imple-
with the institutional initiatives to be undertaken as
mentation of a regional regulatory framework that
part of Component I, the three activities programmed
will address basic aspects in the management of
for this component will deal with specific trans-
shared water resources and make possible the in-
boundary aspects identified in the TDA. In particular,
tegrated management of water and other natural
action is planned on soil management, the consolida-
resources. It will also encourage the development
tion of protected areas, basic natural resource studies,
and harmonization of jurisdictional frameworks,
and the maintenance of the quality of the Basin's water
particularly those relating to environmental legis-
resources.
lation, water codes, environmental impact assess-
ment standards, public participation and access to
Activity 2.1. Soil management and erosion control
information.
· Environmental zoning and land-use regulation. To
The TDA identified several regions and sub-basins
encourage land-use regulation as a basic tool of
of the Bermejo Basin, such as those within the Central
regional planning that will contribute to sustain-
Valley of Tarija, the sub-Andean or Yungas regions,
able management of natural resources. To this
the Iruya River basin, and the Rio Grande basin, as
end, the project will identify and assess the techni-
critical in terms of current or threatened erosion, cur-
cal, institutional, legal, and political aspects that
rent and potential contribution to the production and
must be taken into account by national and subna-
transport of sediments, and loss of productive soils.
tional governments in establishing the basic in-
The SAP calls for structural and non-structural meas-
struments governing land settlement and economic
ures (tree planting for carbon fixation, farming and
activities as a function of the carrying capacity of
ranching practices, regulatory frameworks, environ-
natural resources.
mental regulation) to control soil loss and provide pro-
· Strengthening and developing economic instru-
duction alternatives through a focus on watershed
ments to promote sustainable use of water. To de-
management. This activity will extend and transfer the
sign and achieve consensus on strategies, at the
implementation of feasible measures for erosion con-
regional level, for incorporating financial and eco-
trol in the Upper Bermejo Basin identified and proved
nomic instruments to reflect the economic value of
effective during the SAP formulation phase to promote
water. These strategies will be designed as com-
greater use of soil management practices that minimize
plementary to other regulatory instruments gov-
degradation and the risk of destabilization. The results
erning natural resources in the Bermejo Basin re-
of these efforts will encourage broader application of
gion and will constitute genuine sources of fi-
these management practices, contributing to sustain-
nancing for integrated management of water and
able land use (essentially for farming) and conserva-
other natural resources.
tion of areas that, although not yet significantly al-
· Development of strategies for incorporating envi-
tered, are at risk of land degradation. A key feature of
ronmental and social costs into project manage-
this activity will include the mitigation of erosion in
ment and decision-making. The purpose of this
critical zones. The output of this activity will include
activity is to design, formulate, and validate re-
the application of recommended soil conservation and
gional criteria, instrumental strategies, and rec-
erosion control measures to limit the loss of soil. The
ommendations for generalized incorporation of
estimated cost of Activity 1.2 is US$2,134,200, and
environmental and social costs into the evaluation
includes the following specific actions:
of development projects, using methodologies that
· Sediment control in the Tolomosa River Basin.
will assign proper value to natural resources and
This activity consists of three components: (1)
services.
control of sediments in transit, through the con-
struction of five earthen dikes, 10 gabion dikes
with riprap protection, and an enclosed area of 160
11

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
hectares for natural vegetation regeneration; (2) a
tial erosion from which it currently suffers. This
protected forest area of 80 hectares; and (3) man-
activity will develop a comprehensive plan to
agement and conservation of 600 hectares of
control soil loss within this subbasin based pri-
farmland and rehabilitation of dry-land farming
marily upon actions of a structural kind, but also
areas in the Mena River subbasin. This pilot proj-
including non-structural management measures.
ect is intended to control sediments in transit and
to apply erosion control techniques to reduce silt-
Activity 2.2. Consolidating protected areas and
ing in the San Jacinto reservoir, the principal water
protecting biodiversity
source in this area, and loss of arable soils. The
project will draw upon experience with erosion
In accordance with the conclusions of the SAP,
control practices gained during the formulation
this activity will promote the creation of integrated,
phase of the SAP.
community-based units within the Bermejo Basin to
· Integral management of natural resources in the
serve the ecotourism market, will help to establish
Santa Ana River Basin. This activity consists in a
buffer zones and environmental corridors to reduce
series of works regulating water flow in microba-
human impacts on areas of significant habitat value,
sins tributary to, and in the main channel of, the
and will sponsor specific studies on natural resources,
Santa Ana River. These works will promote sus-
including a pilot demonstration project on carbon
tainable use of land and water resources within the
fixation.
Basin for irrigation and soil management through
This activity will also help to transfer experience
the application of conservation and rehabilitation
gained in two other natural areas of the Yungas cloud
practices; the restoration of vegetation; livestock
forest region of Argentina and Bolivia and to design
management; and the consolidation of grassroots
strategies for extending them to other natural areas of
institutions through public participation. The in i-
the lower basin. The results of the project will be the
tial stage will see the execution of a pilot project in
introduction of management programs for the devel-
the Gamoneda River subbasin. Integrated basin
opment of protected areas and buffer zones in the vi-
management techniques will be developed and ap-
cinity of the national parks and reserves of Calilegua,
plied with a view to ensuring environmental
Campo El Rey, Baritu, Tariquia, and Sama, and will
sustainability and improving the living conditions
promote ecotourism as a form of sustainable develop-
of the local population.
ment in those areas, within a framework of
· Integrated management of the Iruya River Sub-
sustainability and protection of biodiversity. The esti-
basin. The Iruya River contributes nearly 50 per-
mated cost of Activity 2.2 is US$1,786,000. Specific
cent of all sediments transported by the Bermejo
projects under this activity are the following:
into the Plata River system. It is in this subbasin
· Introducing alternative forms of ecotourism in
that management measures and practices for con-
piedmont transition forests in the vicinity of the
trolling the production and transport of sediments
National Parks of El Rey and Calilegua. This ac-
will have the greatest influence in controlling land
tivity consists of two elements, distinct but inti-
degradation at the regional level. The objective of
mately linked to each other. Element A includes
this activity, therefore, is to supplement develop-
the monitoring and evaluation of alternative ecot-
ments already being undertaken by COREBE to
ourism uses in the area surrounding the El Rey
identify, evaluate, and implement methodological
National Park, initially identified during the SAP
approaches and techniques for preserving ecosys-
formulation stage. Element B consists of identi-
tems still in their natural state and restoring those
fying, designing, and implementing alternatives
disrupted by human activity that have a determin-
for sustainable use of the buffer zone surrounding
ing influence on the stability of the landscape and
the Calilegua National Park for ecotourism pur-
on the phenomena of surface erosion and land-
poses. Both of these components envision, among
slides that are characteristic of this region.
other things, the introduction of ecotourism as a
· Management of the Rio Grande Basin: Systemati-
sustainable alternative to traditional productive
zation of the Huasamayo River subbasin. This is
practices, by incorporating the montane selvas, in
the first component of a program for the sustain-
particular the transition forests, into the tourism
able management of the Rio Grande Basin, the
market and by encouraging conservation-oriented
purpose of which is to avoid or reduce the torren-
12

---

Executive Summary SAP-Bermejo River Basin
management practices that will consolidate the
sociological concepts initially identified in the
buffer zones surrounding existing protected areas.
program with respect to the Tariquia-Baritu Eco-
· Carbon fixation in the Yungas. During the first
logical Corridor.
phase of this project, this activity will investigate
· Zoning for the future Teuco National Park. This
the current ecological status of natural habitats in
initiative is intended to protect units of the dry
the Yungas (upper basin of the Bermejo River)
Chaco, and is seen as a fundamental step towards
and the design of a pilot project for protection,
establishing the Chaco Biological Corridor identi-
conservation, natural resource management and
fied in the regional biodiversity protection and
rehabilitation of degraded habitats in this ecologi-
management plan. The area to be zoned covers
cally sensitive portion of the Basin. A second and
250,000 hectares in the provinces of Formosa and
more important element of this activity will be to
Chaco. This area is drained, for the most part, by
implement this pilot plan in a selected representa-
the Bermejo and the Teuco rivers. The project
tive area. The project will be located in one of the
will attempt to define the real potential of the sec-
major water-supply zones of the Basin and will be
tor as a protected natural area and to establish ob-
aimed at increasing the carbon-fixation capacity of
jectives for its conservation, to provide appropriate
the area through the use of sustainable production
zoning for the area, to establish recommendations
practices, the regulated use of natural resources,
for its management, and to formulate and propose
and the application of techniques for the protec-
policies for establishing a protected area
tion, conservation, management, and rehabilitation
· Biodiversity study. This activity is intended to
of natural habitats.
improve the state of knowledge about biodiversity
· Implementation of the Baritu-Tariquia biological
in the Upper Bermejo Basin, to determine the con-
corridor. The purpose of this activity is to ensure
servation status of the principal ecosystems, to
the physical continuity of the protected areas cur-
identify problems affecting the biota, and to pro-
rently included in the Baritu Park in Argentina and
pose lines of action for its conservation and man-
the Tariquia Reserve in Bolivia. Through the in-
agement. The activity will be based on earlier
tegrated management of the natural resources of
studies conducted during the formulation phase of
these protected areas, a representative portion of
the SAP, and on other existing studies in the re-
the Tucumán-Bolivian selva will be protected. The
gion.
activity includes the legal and administrative con-
· Evaluation of sub-Andean rangelands. This is a
solidation of the biological corridor and the im-
second and supplementary phase of the pastures
plementation of an integrated management pro-
study of the Central Valley of Tarija that was init i-
gram for natural resources in the corridor through
ated during the formulation stage of the SAP. The
actions of protection, economic support, education
study extends zoning of the natural pasture lands
and environmental health education, research, and
in the sub-Andean ecoregion (Upper Bermejo Ba-
institutional strengthening. The corridor area in-
sin), on the basis of ecological and socioeconomic
cludes the Tariquia Reserve, the Baritu Park, and
criteria, quantifying their current condition, their
the intervening zone on both sides of the border.
management, and their limitations and potential,
· Zoning and management plan for the Sama and
and identifies possible sustainable development
Tariquia Reserves. This activity consists of un-
strategies. Before such strategies can be developed
dertaking the ecological and socioeconomic stud-
and implemented, basic information for develop-
ies necessary to establish core guidelines and con-
ing sustainable management plans is required on
crete actions for managing the biological reserves
the natural rangelands in this ecoregion.
of Sama and Tariquia, in a manner consistent with
their objectives, and characteristics. The project
Activity 2.3. Protection and restoration of water
will develop a proposal for delimiting and reclassi-
quality
fying these reserves, dividing the territory into
zones according to their ecological, economic, and
This activity is intended to restore the quality of
social characteristics, and preparing a management
water in the critical stretches identified during the SAP
plan for both reserves. The activity implements
formulation phase, particularly in the watercourses
lessons learned during the formulation phase of
classification study. Implementation of the cleanup of
the SAP, and extends the underlying technical and
the Guadalquivir River, planned during the formula-
13

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
tion phase of the SAP, will imply additional support to
COMPONENT III: SUSTAINABLE
the efforts of the local institutions that will be respon-
DEVELOPMENT OF NATURAL
sible for carrying out the core activities under this
RESOURCES
plan. It will be supplemented by a similar planning
study of watercourses in the vicinity of the city of
Component III will encourage the adoption of al-
Bermejo, another critical point of pollution of the wa-
ternative production modes that will be environmen-
ter resources in the Upper Basin. In so doing, this ac-
tally friendly or that will at least minimize environ-
tivity will extend and refine the lessons learned in the
mental degradation, while at the same time providing
Guadalquivir subbasin. It will ultimately have a bene-
greater economic opportunities for the local populace,
ficial effect for the entire Rio Bermejo basin. This
in a context of integrated management of water re-
activity will be complementary to the establishment of
sources and planning for the basin as a whole. The
a water-quality monitoring network for the whole ba-
initial action under this component will be to formu-
sin, already undertaken. The estimated cost of Activ-
late an integrated management program for the Basin's
ity 2.3 is US$326,500, and includes the following spe-
water resources, which will draw upon, and at the
cific actions.
same time establish, a regional framework for execu-
· Environmental cleanup of the Guadalquivir River.
tion of the remaining activities.
Involves the implementation of two, pilot-scale
wastewater treatment plants in small rural settle-
Activity 3.1. Implementation of a planning frame-
ments, including the adaptation and dissemination
work for integrated water resource management
of feasible wastewater treatment technologies; the
establishment of a pollution control system for
This activity is intended to incorporate and
subterranean aquifers; and the formulation of a
strengthen regional practices, procedures, and capaci-
monitoring plan for waste waters. This activity
ties for programming and planning, thereby addressing
will assist in the environmental cleanup of the
one of the basic causes of environmental problems in
Guadalquivir River, within the context of an ac-
the basin as identified by the SAP. In particular, it
tivity that takes an integrated approach to this en-
calls for the formulation and development of an inte-
vironmental problem identified during the Trans-
grated water resource management plan comprising
boundary Diagnostic Analysis.
information gathering and dissemination, studies,
· Environmental cleanup study for watercourses in
analyses, sharing of experiences, demonstrations, and
the Bermejo Triangle. The activity will consist of
evaluations conducted to date or to be undertaken as
analyzing the existing sewage and water treatment
part of the first stage of the SAP. The results of this
system, evaluating the sources and degree of pol-
activity will provide an agreed planning framework for
lution imposed upon the receiving waterbodies,
sustainable management of land and water resources,
and proposing solutions for treating wastewater
within a regional regulatory context negotiated and
from the city and the sugar industry. In addition, it
supported through a broad process of public participa-
will propose solutions for eliminating solid wastes
tion. The estimated cost of Activity 3.1 is
and other pollutants that also degrade the envi-
US$2,675,900. It includes one specific action:
ronment, and be accompanied by specific legal
· Program for Integrated Management of Water
provisions relating to the application of environ-
Resources in the Bermejo River Basin. The pur-
mental controls. The expected outcomes are (1) a
pose of this project is to integrate all the actions
diagnosis of the environmental situation of water-
undertaken during the first stage of the SAP,
courses, primarily those of the El Nueve and El
within a programming framework for the inte-
Cinco gorges and the Bermejo and Grande de
grated management of the basin's resources, and to
Tarija rivers, which are affected by industrial and
place development initiatives in the context of
organic pollution; and (2) the formulation of the
preventing erosion and pollution and conserving
final design of an environmental cleanup plan for
nature. This framework will serve as a basis for
these watercourses.
decision-making, and will establish a threshold of
sustainability for development projects undertaken
by the various jurisdictions, either alone or jointly.
It will serve as a basis for giving programming
14

---

Executive Summary SAP-Bermejo River Basin
content to actions that will be included in other
subtropical zones, sustainable soil management
stages of the SAP, either subsequent or comple-
and conservation, and management of excessive
mentary. Activities relating to project coordin a-
and deficient water flows.
tion and administration, contract monitoring and
· Productive diversification under conditions of
supervision, and the formation of a basic technical
sustainability in the Yungas. This activity is in-
team will use a substantial portion of the financing
tended to take advantage of the pilot experiment in
provided for this project.
the community of Los Toldos by expanding its
area of application, pursuing aspects that were
Activity 3.2. Implementation of sustainable man-
passed over during the SAP formulation stage
agement practices that will contribute to the reha-
such as sustainable exploitation of the forest on an
bilitation of degraded areas
experimental scale, management of pasture lands
and livestock, and the development of small-scale
The Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis identified
traditional crops to supply a highly selective mar-
human pressures on natural forest resources as a direct
ketto generate employment opportunities
cause of the loss of habitat and biodiversity in the
through existing activities or promising new ones,
montane systems of the upper basin. At the same
such as ecotourism. These actions are intended to
time, the fluvio-morphological dynamics resulting
reduce human pressure on natural forest resources
from the transport of sediments originating in the Up-
by diversifying the productive options open to ru-
per Basin and unsustainable approaches to the man-
ral families in ways that will reduce their trans-
agement of natural resources in general, and of the
formation of the forest, integrate them into the re-
land in particular, associated with farming activity,
gional market, generate local employment oppor-
have been identified as immediate causes of the prob-
tunities, and promote sustainable land-use tech-
lems of lack of access to water resources and degrada-
niques within the parameters of multiple use of
tion of soils in the Chaco, an area of great regional
mountainous areas of the Upper Bermejo River
importance in terms of habitat and biological diversity.
Basin.
The SAP recommended both structural and non-
structural measures to address erosion risks in the up-
Activity 3.3. Evaluation of traditional subsistence
per basin and to control the deposit of sediments, to
practices in agriculture and fishing
moderate excessive fluctuations in water flow, and to
limit the negative impacts of the invasion of exotic
The Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis found a
species in this part of the lower basin. The activity
high incidence of subsistence-level exploitation of
will extend and transfer feasible approaches to sustain-
natural resources in some areas of the Bermejo Basin.
able economic development resulting from experience
Given the high population growth rates and the vul-
during the SAP formulation stage, in the form of pilot
nerability of the natural resource base in these areas,
projects. These will in turn help to mitigate environ-
these levels of exploitation are clearly unsustainable.
mental problems arising from the degradation of for-
The SAP therefore recommended efforts to promote
ests and soils by human activity. The estimated cost of
sustainable forms of production and subsistence based
Activity 3.2 is US$2,393,100. Specific actions in-
on a community approach. This activity will identify
clude:
current subsistence practices in these communities and
will introduce programs designed to encourage the
· Sustainable management alternatives for natural
adoption of sustainable water and soil management
resources in the humid and subhumid Chaco. This
practices. Using the knowledge gained during the
essentially involves the promotion of sustainable
formulation stage of the SAP, this activity will con-
resource management techniques, on the basis of
tribute to the protection of water and soil resources,
experience gained during the formulation stage of
including native fauna, particularly fish, in the natural
the SAP. Some of the major issues to be ad-
ecosystems of the Bermejo River, while at the same
dressed by the activity are the restoration of de-
time helping to satisfy the demand for food, fuel, and
graded environments in the lower basin, manage-
shelter in rural communities. The estimated cost of
ment of forage in humid and subhumid areas, pro-
Activity 3.3 is US$340,200. Specific actions include
ductive restoration of vinalares, sustainable man-
the following:
agement of the agro-silvo-pastoral potential of
15

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
· Implementing water and natural resource man-
COMPONENT IV: PUBLIC AWARENESS
agement practices that are consistent with tradi-
AND PARTICIPATION
tional practices in the basin. The purpose of this
activity is to recognize the value of traditional
This component embraces activities to identify and
cultural manifestations typical of the region with
coordinate the interests of people and organizations
respect to managing water and other natural re-
with economic and/or institutional responsibilities in
sources so that subsistence communities will adopt
the Basin, including the agricultural and industrial
them as valid practices for sustainable manage-
sectors. Access to information is an essential part of
ment. To this end, a cultural survey of the region
this process of encouraging local stakeholders to take
will be undertaken. The most promising manifes-
an interest in sound management of the Basin's natural
tations will be applied in pilot projects, with the
resources. To this end, a central element of this com-
participation of the communities concerned, and
ponent will be to inform the local citizenry hrough an
an action program will be prepared and imple-
integrated program of environmental education, insti-
mented to promote the appreciation, dissemina-
tutional transparency, and exchange of information
tion, and application of traditional practices and
among communities, organizations, and government
manifestations most suitable for the sustainable
entities.
management of natural resources.
· Sustainable rural development in indigenous and
Activity 4.1. Environmental education programs
native communities. This activity is intended to
improve living conditions among native Wichi and
The SAP identified the need for environmental
native communities, through sound management
education programs as a key element in support of
of agro-silvo-pastoral systems and greater aware-
sustainable programs for protecting and rehabilitating
ness of sustainable resource management.
the environment and promoting economic develop-
ment. This activity continues and extends this com-
Activity 3.4. Sustainable development of natural
munity focus throughout the Bermejo Basin. It will
resources
also contribute to the development and distribution of
curricula and materials for use in training teachers and
Under this activity, a demonstration project will be
will include community and private sector initiatives
undertaken in areas recently brought under irrigation
in the scope of education programming. One element
within the San Jacinto project area in an effort to op-
of this activity is specifically designed to improve
timize soil and water use, control soil loss in and
educational opportunities in the most vulnerable com-
around areas under cultivation, and at the same time
munities. The results of this activity will be not only
enhance the productivity of economic activities. The
an increase awareness among communities in the ba-
results of this experiment will be extrapolated to other
sin, but will also a better understanding of ways to im-
zones with similar characteristics within the upper ba-
prove their living standards and bringing about posi-
sin. The estimated cost of Activity 3.4 is US$243,000.
tive environmental change at the local level. The out-
It includes the following strategic action.
put of the activity will include the preparation of ap-
· Systematization of irrigated areas of the San
propriate curricula at the different educational levels,
Jacinto project. This activity includes the devel-
publicity materials for promoting public awareness,
opment and implementation of technological
and materials and manuals for use in teaching and
packages for soil and water management in irri-
teacher training. The estimated cost of Activity 4.1 is
gated farming areas and the management of mar-
US$1,166,000, and includes the following specific
ginal lands within the project's area of influence.
action:
The project calls for optimizing soil and water us-
age in order to enhance the productivity of farm-
· Sponsoring environmental education activities in
ing, and to control erosion in lands next to culti-
the basin. This activity will implement a com-
vated areas. The experience gained will be dis-
prehensive program of efforts to promote envi-
seminated to other irrigated areas that are similarly
ronmental education (awareness, training and for-
vulnerable to soil loss.
mal and informal education) relating to the sus-
tainable use of water and other natural resources,
16

---

Executive Summary SAP-Bermejo River Basin
geared to the different ecological regions of the
information system will be to identify potential
Bermejo Basin, and promote awareness and un-
sources of information, nodes, and users in the Basin.
derstanding among the various stakeholder
The estimated cost of Activity 4.1 is US$ 2,081,600,
groups--social, political and economic--about the
and includes the following specific actions:
environmental consequences of improper use of
natural resources and the impact of human activi-
· Access to information in support of public par-
ties, through workshops, seminars, meetings, bib-
ticipation. The purpose of this activity is to pre-
liography, manuals, brochures, the mass media,
pare recommendations and strategies for estab-
etc. The activity builds upon the experiences
lishing and applying mechanisms to ensure that
gained in the pilot demonstration project carried
civil society has access to information on water,
during the SAP formulation phase.
natural resources and development projects, in-
cluding the identification of the necessary regu-
Activity 4.2. Public participation program
latory frameworks and institutional structures.
The current situation within the region will be
The formulation process for the SAP has gener-
analyzed, and guidelines will be formulated to en-
ated expectations among stakeholders in the Basin,
sure the flow of information and to identify focal
who recognize that public participation in establishing
points for providing that information. Case studies
priorities and implementing new practices is essential
will be used to assess technical, institutional and
for improving the management of water and environ-
legal possibilities and difficulties for establishing
mental resources. The basic elements for ensuring the
one or more selected mechanisms, and on this ba-
commitment of local stakeholders are information,
sis general recommendations will be formulated
education, and the establishment of suitable mecha-
and strategies will be proposed for generalized
nisms for public participation. To this end, the activity
implementation across the different jurisdictional
will seek to stimulate public participation in environ-
levels of the basin.
mental management of the Rio Bermejo basin by dis-
· Developing networks and mechanisms of articu-
seminating information to communities and or-
lation among the various economic sectors and ju-
ganizations through a variety of means, including
risdictional authorities in the basin. The purpose
public hearings, community-based legislative initia-
of this activity is to promote the development of
tives, environmental education courses, consultation
networks and other mechanisms for sectoral and
and mobilization workshops, capacity strengthening
interjurisdictional articulation as instruments for
programs, and use of the mass media (radio, television,
coordinating efforts at sustainable management
Internet, newspapers). This information will help to
among the different economic sectors and among
build a basic awareness so that individuals, organiza-
the various jurisdictional authorities in the basin.
tions and businesses will become engaged in the deci-
To this end, priority interest groups and appropri-
sion-making process. The estimated cost of Activity
ate articulation mechanisms will be identified, ex-
4.2 is US$532,300.
amined, and recommended. Selected activities of
articulation and coordination will be conducted in
Activity 4.3. Creating an information system for
regional workshops.
the Bermejo River Basin
· Developing and implementing an environmental
information and monitoring system for the Ber-
The SAP identified the need to acquire and dis-
mejo River Basin. This activity will consolidate
seminate information at two levels within the basin:
the implementation of an environmental informa-
technical information among water resource profes-
tion system for the basin as a whole, embracing
sionals at all governmental levels involved in the use
activities in the area of generating, acquiring,
and management of waters of the Bermejo River, and
processing, and storing information on the status
information of more general interest for the public and
and use of the basin's natural resources. To this
other interested entities in the Basin. This information
end, an environmental monitoring network will be
will foster institutional transparency, stimulate in-
designed for the Basin, to cover data on climate,
formed participation in community decision-making,
sediments, the volume and quality of water in the
and help to standardize practices among professionals
different rivers of the Basin, the state and dynam-
and jurisdictions. A prerequisite for establishing the
ics of vegetation cover, the process of soil erosion,
17

---

SAP-Bermejo River Basin
Executive Summary
socioeconomic aspects, and other items. A GIS
pation by the competent jurisdictions and consultation
database will be established and information will
of all stakeholders in the basin. Efforts will be made
be made available to different users. Efforts will
to develop and strengthen the binational and regional
also be made to strengthen and coordinate activi-
organizations involved, the relevant provincial go v-
ties among the responsible entities.
ernment agencies in Argentina, those of the prefecture
of Tarija in Bolivia, and non-government organiza-
COSTS AND FINANCING
tions as well, so that they can take an active part in the
consultation process. The intent will be to develop
The total cost of the project is estimated to be
and harmonize the regional regulatory framework and
US$17,433,000. In addition, more than US$500
that of the various jurisdictions in a manner consistent
million is included for investment in the Bermejo
with the principles and policies of the SAP. This in
River Basin, as reimbursable loans that are now
turn will rely on complementary programs of informa-
administered by FONPLATA, CAF, the Inter-
tion and education supported by the schools, universi-
American Development Bank, the World Bank, and
ties, and NGOs. Comprehensive programs for envi-
bilateral governmental cooperation agencies. These
ronmental zoning and land-use planning will also be
funds may be considered as part of the financial
important in this process.
There is a risk that national governments will not
baseline, according to the present agreements. It is
accord enough importance to the need to open bina-
assumed that these investments represent the total
tional and regional organizations to participation by
value of the national benefits produced by the project
the competent jurisdictional players or equip them to
and that they will be specifically applied to deal with
take on the functions of basin-wide entities embracing
such aspects as effluent treatment, flood management,
the entire Bermejo River Basin. There is also a risk
and domestic water supply. Funding would be
that provincial governments will fail to complete and
contributed by the governments of Argentina and
harmonize their environmental legal frameworks. The
Bolivia, local provinces and prefectures, and other
result of such failure would be that the mechanisms
public and private sources in support of new
and regulations essential for the integrated manage-
initiatives. Financing by international institutions is
ment of the basin's natural resources would not be
being sought to complement and/or help catalyze
adopted. A further risk is that the public participation
implementation of specific project activities. The GEF
program will fall short of its goal for lack of response,
is being approached to fund incremental costs,
and the inadequacy of local capacities and resources.
particularly for activities related to the development of
Experience gained during the program formulation
an effective organization for the basin, mitigation and
stage suggests that significant progress is being made
prevention of soil degradation processes, and
in instilling an awareness of the need to incorporate
reduction and control of water quality degradation.
environmental issues in development programs and
projects and to foster participatory decision making
about projects, based on broad public information and
RISKS AND SUSTAINABILITY
consultation. Progress has also been made in the use
of coordination and participation mechanisms at the
governmental and nongovernmental level, thereby
In terms of SAP objectives, the principal risk fac-
strengthening the regional vision of the basin and en-
ing development efforts in the Bermejo Basin is that
couraging a joint interjurisdictional approach to issues
environmental considerations will not be adequately
of general interest relating to shared resources. This
incorporated into projects, programs, policies and ac-
tivities in the manner needed to ensure sustainability,
suggests that the risks discussed above can be min i-
within a comprehensive vision of the basin. This
mized through the explicit commitment and support of
could give rise to undesirable environmental effects,
the various stakeholders for this Strategic Action Pro-
such as damage to the natural resource base, flooding,
gram.
pollution of ecosystems, and loss of productive units.
One other important risk relates to the lack of ade-
To ensure sustainability, there will have to be appro-
quate human and financial resources allocated by na-
tional and regional institutions to the implementation
priate institutional development to ensure proper re-
of the priority activities defined in the SAP. Faced
gional planning and coordination, with direct partic i-
with such a great demand on their resources, they will
18

---

Executive Summary SAP-Bermejo River Basin
have to resort to various financing procedures such as:
the financial risks during implementation of the Stra-
international lending and technical cooperation, dona-
tegic Action Program and will support the manage-
tions from multilateral cooperation agencies, bilateral
ment of the Basin and help to develop practical ap-
cooperation agreements, and participation by private
proaches to the stewardship of its environmental re-
banks in undertaking private-sector projects within the
sources. Moreover, account must be taken of other
strategies proposed. These funds will constitute the
sectoral projects financed with national and interna-
principal source of financing for ensuring that coun-
tional funds in the area of natural risk management,
terpart contributions are adequate to the budgets and
sanitary and storm sewer effluents, and water quality
resources currently available and planned for the fu-
control infrastructure that are now under way or in the
ture. Both sources of funding will help to minimize
pipeline.
19

---