MWSS: More trees in watersheds lessen turbidity

The Metropolitan Waterworks Sewerage System (MWSS) has called for a sustainable integrated watershed management program in the wake of the increase in the turbidity level of raw water in Ipo dam, which affected water supply in Metro Manila.

The increase in the turbidity level triggered water supply interruptions in several parts of Metro Manila and nearby Bulacan.

“Recognizing the importance of watersheds in supporting the water supply of Metro Manila and adjoining provinces, MWSS needs to come up with an integrated approach toward sustainable management and protection of the watersheds,” MWSS administrator Reynaldo Velasco said.

6 watersheds

The MWSS has launched the Annual Million Tree Challenge, a reforestation project, which aims to plant 1 million trees per year for five years.

The project focuses on six watersheds—Umiray, Angat, Ipo, La Mesa, Marikina Watershed and Laguna Lake.

On its first year, the project surpassed its target at 1,258,000 trees planted. This year,   1.55 million trees will be planted.

Trees in the watersheds absorb rainwater which channels it into streams, rivers, and eventually dams where fresh water is sourced.  Thus, there is a need to protect the trees in watersheds to lessen the turbidity of water in the dam caused by  landslides.

Illegal logging, slash-and-burn farming and charcoal making have been identified as the main causes of deforestation at Ipo Dam.