Managing specific freshwater ecosystems: Conservation and management

Abstract

The International Lake Environment Committee (ILEC 2005) has identified six major pillars for lake governance: 1) policies, which represent the “rules of the game”; 2) institutions, representing the entities responsible for carrying out the rules of the game; 3) stakeholder participation in implementing effective management plans; 4) technology, involving selection of “hard” versus “soft” management approaches; 5) knowledge and information, focusing on obtaining the most accurate information and data; and (6) finances, including identifying and ensuring sustainable sources. These pillars are encompassed within the concept of Integrated Lake Basin Management (ILBM), which represents a major complement to Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) for addressing lakes, reservoirs, wetlands and other lentic water systems.