1.      What is the Adopt A River Programme? – The Adopt A River Programme is designed to identify critical watersheds in need of improved water supply and/or management and engage stakeholders at the community and national level to participate in projects to achieve this improvement.

2.      Who/What is the Implementation Unit? – The Implementation Unit was constituted on January 09^th 2017 and consists of the Project Manager, Financial & Administrative Officer, Management Officer, Data Officer, Communications Officer, Four Outreach Officers, Five Outreach Assistants and an Office Assistant/Driver. This comprises a total of 15 staff members.

3.      What type of projects do you do? – Public Education geared towards behavioural change is one of the core pillars. However, approved watershed management projects include Check Dams, Reforestation, Water Monitoring Programs, Recycling Programs, School Participation & Competitions, Voluntary Effluent Clean-up.

4.      Who/What is an “Adopter?” – An Adopter can be a member of corporate Trinidad, School, NGO, Village Council, Sporting Team, Social Club, just about anyone who is committed to becoming a steward of a specified river.

5.      What is expected of an Adopter? – An Adopter is required to lead the charge in defence of their Watershed and River. They participate in Public education, promote volunteerism, participate in the development of watershed management projects and motivate their community to generally become better stewards of their environment.

6.      Is training available to Adopters? – YES. The Programme Implementation Unit will provide resources by way of their two-day, Water Warriors Training Programme. This will be done at the Adopters convenience and will introduce Water Quality Testing Processes to the group as well as discuss the challenges faced by our water resource.

7.      Why should communities participate? – In addition to the possibility of an augmented water supply, communities produce less waste and actively participate in the management of their water resource. Other benefits include Ecotourism business opportunities, reduced flooding, improved freshwater fisheries and cleaner rivers to enjoy.

8.      Where can I find Adopt A River Activities? – The simple answer is nationwide. The four Outreach Officers are assigned to areas across Trinidad and Tobago. No matter the location of an interested group, an Officer and Assistant will be assigned.

9.      Do Adopters have an opportunity of share their stories? YES. The Programme Implementation Unit have engaged in activities to bring all stakeholders together. These activities include Stakeholder consultations, Expositions and an Annual Conference.

10.  Is employment available in the programme? – NO. The Adopt A River Programme is premised on Volunteerism and National Pride. The Programme can only offer resources by way of project materials but cannot employ or pay wages or stipends to Adopters/Community Members.

11.  How can I find out more about the Programme? – We have a very active social media presence. You can visit the website, www.adoptarivertt.com, Facebook or Instagram handles. Our Adopter registration form can be found on our user-friendly website. The unit can also be reached at 662-2302, ext. 6560.