Home

Jalakoota, an informal forum intending to educate people on soil and water conservation was launched on October 27, 2001 at Sri Ranga in Kukkujadka of Sullia Taluk in Karnataka under the leadership of farmer - journalist Mr. Shree Padre. Innovative farmer Dr. L.C. Soans of Moodabidri inaugurated the Jalakoota.

Known environment journalist Mr. Nagesh Hegde releasing the books on water conservation at the launch of Jalakoota.

Soil and water conservation (SWC) has attained utmost importance in the wake of continuous drought in the recent years. This endevour demands the active participation of every citizen irrespective of social and geographical disparities. Jalakoota has been working to bring about public awareness about the significance of SWC both in villages and cities. Shree Padre who has been working for the cause in the last few years is heading the activities of Jalakoota.

Water conservation doesn't mean the construction of few check dams. It doesn't have a universal formula to apply. The ideal mode of conservation is to choose a method based on the geography and the environment of the respective area and work collectively or individually. Jalakoota is enlightening people about several issues and techniques that the soil and water conservation methods comprise. In this regard it is conducting 'jalayatra' to places where people have successfully employed rainwater-harvesting techniques.

The forum is also planning to gather information about the success stories in various parts of the world and study if useful factors from those methods can be applied in local conditions. Jalakoota aims to document the details of those who are already involved in rainwater harvesting. This will act as a link among the like-minded and will also help those who need guidance to take up soil and water conservation.

Jalakoota will also publish books on soil and water conservation and other related aspects. Initially four books written by Shree Padre have been released on October 27. The books are Hanigoodisuva Haadhiyalli, Maththe Rooparel Baththalilla, Baanigondu Aalike, Gujaraathina Neera Thijori - Tanka. Known development journalist from Bangalore, Mr. Nagesh Hegde released the books. The books give adequate information about water conservation and rainwater harvesting. Success stories of soil and water conservation in India and abroad are documented in these books.

For details:shreepadre@sancharnet.in

Mr. Padre's books on water conservation in Kannada

Jalakoota: Objectives To create awareness among public on various aspects of soil and water conservation (SWC): Slide shows Talk Discussion Field visit Guidance Articles Books Networking To document success stories on SWC.

Home