Being that forests and trees are essential to maintaining resilient production systems, communities and ecosystems, they are, unequivocally vital to our water supply. They provide high quality water resources by intercepting atmospheric moisture, contributing to cloud and rain formation, reducing erosion and even recharge groundwater.

Forested watersheds provide an estimated 75 percent of the world’s accessible freshwater resources, on which more than half the Earth’s people depend for domestic, agricultural, industrial and environmental purposes.

However, changes in climate and land-use are contributing to altered groundwater and base flows locally, and precipitation regionally. Global hydro sheds – major watersheds – have experienced 40
percent tree cover loss, resulting in increased risk to water stress, erosion and forest fires.

With approximately 80% of the world population facing water insecurity, the management of forests for water is increasingly important. Using forests to produce high quality water can cost as low as UGX700 per person per year. Yet, 75 percent of the world’s forests are not managed for water conservation.

That said, the relationship between forest and water resources needs to be addressed through integrated management and policies, supported by scientific understanding.