Objectives

The main objectives of the Department are:

Implement integrated package programs that include vegetative, agronomic and water management measures to tackle erosion problems taking the sub-watershed area as the unit of planning, implementation and management.
Ensure the multiple use of land and water to fulfill diverse needs.
Operate Soil Conservation and Watershed Management (SCWM) programs in line with the integrated watershed management approach.
Establish linkages and networking with all other related sectors like forestry, agriculture, livestock, water and land resources.
Ensure people's participation through conservation extension education and demonstration of appropriate technologies.
Adopt ways and means of minimum damage to the environment during the construction of development infrastructures.
Protect important watersheds (e.g. upstream of hydroelectric dams, irrigation systems) and riverbanks through plantation and the other conservation measures.
Expand and institutionalize SCWM services in all districts of Nepal.
Focus on conservation activities in the Siwalik region and other marginal lands.
Enhance capacity of technical manpower of DSCWM by providing knowledge, skills, and technologies related to various aspects of SCWM through trainings and workshops.

to assist in maintaining ecological balance by reducing pressure from natural hazards such as floods, landslides and soil erosion through conservation and development of important watersheds of the country.
to maintain land productivity, reduce soil erosion and contribute in development infrastructure protection by scientific management of watersheds.

Policies and Strategies

DSCWM has adopted the following policies and strategies for Soil Conservation and Watershed Management: