Question

Given below are some of the facts related to watershed.
A. In small watersheds overland flow is the chief contributor to the peak flow.
B. In small watersheds peak flows are influenced by channel characteristics.
C. Each watershed is an independent hydrological unit.
D. People's participation is the key to the success of any watershed programme.
E. Watershed management should be done on top-down approach.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

• A. B only
• B. B and E only
• C. A, C and D only
• D. A, B and D only

Hint:

In watershed management, always associate people's participation with the bottom-up approach. Questions frequently test this concept.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A watershed functions as a natural hydrological unit where rainfall, runoff, infiltration, and streamflow are interconnected. Successful watershed management combines scientific planning with community participation.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Evaluate each statement:
Statement A: Correct. In small watersheds, overland flow contributes significantly to peak discharge because runoff reaches the outlet rapidly.
Statement B: Correct. Channel characteristics such as slope, roughness, and channel length influence the timing and magnitude of peak flow.
Statement C: Incorrect. A watershed is a hydrological unit, but it is not completely independent because it interacts with neighboring systems through climate and groundwater processes.
Statement D: Correct. Community participation is essential for the long-term success and maintenance of watershed projects.
Statement E: Incorrect. Modern watershed management follows a bottom-up participatory approach, not a top-down approach.
Thus, only A, B, and D are correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct combination is A, B and D only. Hence, the answer is (D).