Celebrate World Water Day

Water is essential for life.  Yet an overwhelming number of people in the world—an estimated 1 in 8 according to the United Nations—do not have a regular supply of clean water. 

In the Southern Cardamoms, water is essential not only for regular consumption but also for the protection of forests and wildlife and the daily business of almost everyone in the community.

Koh Kong province is home to over 100 miles of coastal mangroves and fisheries, hundreds of miles of inland fisheries and 8 major waterways.  These waterways, fed by the coastal salt water and the inland fresh water, provide rich networks of aquatic nurseries where fish, crabs and shrimp flourish.  Fishermen and shrimp harvesters provide food and income for their families.

Rich biodiversity has developed in the coastal mangroves, and protecting the vulnerable species requires careful management and protection of the waterways.

Farmers, trained and equipped by Wildlife Alliance, tap into these sources to supplement annual rainfall and ensure their crops thrive.  They feed their families and sell their goods in the local communities.  Their access to water ensures the food security for the entire region.

Still other communities have partnered with Wildlife Alliance staff to develop a growing ecotourism industry, depending on the beauty and outdoor activities the winding waterways provide.

Communities, forests and wildlife all owe their life to effective water and forest management.  A watershed protection approach implemented by Wildlife Alliance and the Forestry Administration has proven incredibly effective in preserving the region.

The Southern Cardamoms currently have the slowest rate of deforestation in the country.  This was made possible by the generosity of friends around the world and the hard work of our staff on the ground.

As we celebrate World Water Day, consider making a gift to enable Wildlife Alliance to continue to preserve vital watersheds that sustain forests, wildlife and communities.