Following the historic signing of the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) Agreement in Phuentsholing earlier this year, the first on-the-ground activity has now begun in the Omchhu Watershed.
From 8th to 14th March 2026, a week-long hands-on training on the construction of log check dams and stone check dams was successfully conducted at Wangdigatshel. The training was facilitated with technical guidance from Mr. Chenga Tshering, Principal Land Management Officer of the National Soil Services Centre, and saw enthusiastic participation and strong support from the local community.
Conducted in a landslide-affected area, the training focused on building community members’ capacity to independently implement soil and water conservation interventions as part of their community action plans under the PES initiative.
Participants learned how simple yet effective structures, such as log-and-stone check dams, can:
โข Slow down water flow in steep terrain
โข Reduce soil erosion and trap debris moving downhill
โข Filter sediments and reduce water turbidity
โข Stabilize landslide-prone areas and protect downstream ecosystems
These practical skills will enable the community to take an active role in protecting the watershed while strengthening environmental resilience in the landscape.
The training marks an important step in translating the PES agreement into real action, empowering upstream communities to safeguard the watershed that sustains both livelihoods and water security for downstream users. The PES initiative links upstream watershed stewards with downstream water users, creating a shared responsibility to conserve the ecosystem while supporting local livelihoods.
A meaningful beginning towards community-led conservation and sustainable watershed management in the Omchhu landscape.
