Led by State Conservation Engineer Jeffrey C. Wheaton of USDA-NRCS Pacific Islands- West Area Office in Guam, the training featured over 25 participants from the state and FSM national governments, as well as representatives from environmental non-government organizations.
The two-day training began with welcoming remarks by Pohnpei Lt. Gov. Churchill Edward, followed by opening remarks by U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission William “Doug” Douglass.
The agenda included overviews of soil erosion, hydrology, rainfall and runoff concepts, and watershed delineation.
Attendees also learned how to analyze hydrographs, runoff models, and how to utilize software to record invaluable surface water data.
The successful workshop concluded with numerous comments about how important it is for local offices to consider the impact on the local watershed when planning, designing, and implementing local projects.
Training participants at the state and national level requested follow-up activities to promote further learning, concept application, and project simulation.
USDA-NRCS officials plan to conduct similar workshops in Chuuk and Kosrae by the end of the year.
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