The resolution stipulates that BWA will provide technical assistance in the development of strategies to protect Ngarchelong’s watersheds and its sources of water, and to devise programs to further the strategies.
During the early1990’s and in lieu of environmental awareness, studies were conducted to identify areas in Palau that contain critical resources – resources which if not looked after would put the people of Palau in jeopardy. Ranked as top environmental areas that needed immediate attention were the Southwest Islands (particularly Helen Reef), the rocks islands (Southern Lagoon), the Northern Reefs, and Babeldaob. Efforts eventually evolved to address issues and concerns about the specified areas. However, most of the efforts were focused on the marine resources.With the development of the Compact Road, a number of individuals took notice of its indirect and direct effects on the environment; and voiced their concerns. In 2006, the traditional and elected leaders of the states of Melekeok and Ngaremlengui took the initiative and began discussions about forming a cooperative to ensure that the resources in existence within Babeldaob are protected; and thus, the Babeldaob Watershed Alliance (BWA) was born. In November 2007, Ngiwal State enlisted into BWA.The mission of the BWA is to “protect, conserve, and restore the water resources of Babeldaob through collaborative outreach, education, networking, science, information sharing, and technical assistance by and for the communities of the island.”BWA aims to ensure that the watersheds within Babeldaob are protected; thus, ensuring that the water quantity and quality are maintained at their best possible.BWA currently has 6 allied states – Aimeliik, Ngaremlengui, Ngchesar, Melekeok, Nardmau, and Ngiwal – and aims to enlist all of the Babeldaob states.According to Joyce Beouch, BWA coordinator, NSA, by way of its resolution, has initiated a process for Ngarchelong State to become a member of BWA.“We will be conducting meetings with members of NSA,” Beouch said, “to ensure that they are familiar with the alliance and its purpose before the signing BWA’s Master Cooperative Agreement.”Arrangements are being made, according to Beouch, to enhance the progress of Ngarchelong’s interests in joining BWA.
