Twenty-nine national organizations have united to protect America’s drinking water at the source – in the lakes, rivers, streams and aquifers we tap for drinking purposes. The Source Water Collaborative (SWC) was originally formed in 2006 with the goal to combine the strengths and tools of a diverse set of member organizations to act now, and protect drinking water sources for generations to come.
BENEFITS OF USING A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH:
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- Increases recognition of need for protecting drinking water sources.
- Offers cost-effective approach rather than “going it alone.”
- Aligns diverse efforts for mutual benefit (watershed protection, conservation, regulation, planning, and/or economic development).
- Brings together those with authority and influence to solve problems.
- Uses a voluntary approach while leveraging current state and federal programs.
COLLABORATION TOOLKIT: HOW TO BUILD AND MAINTAIN EFFECTIVE PARTNERSHIPS TO PROTECT SOURCES OF DRINKING WATER
The Source Water Collaborative has developed this extensive “How-to Collaborate” Toolkit to help others initiate or enhance partnerships to protect drinking water sources. This Toolkit is part of the SWC’s ongoing efforts to help foster local, state and regional/watershed source water collaboratives. Below are excerpts from the SWC Collaboration Toolkit. For more information visit sourcewatercollaborative.org.
Learn about the benefits of a collaborative approach
Find which type of collaborative might work for you
Align planning with priority source water concerns
Identify the resources you have
Identify key partners
Start conversations with trusted partners
Get initial agreement
Consider Steps to Get Started
Identify Leaders and Facilitators
Identify Options for Structuring Your Collaborative
Bring Collaborative Members to the Table
Identify Common Ground Among Your Partners
Define Your Intentions with Key Materials
Engage Members and Drive Action with Communication Tools
Set Specific Goals-Propose Initial Protection Activities
Plan Effective Meetings
Develop Effective Meeting Agendas
Find Sample Meeting Materials
Find Funding Ideas
Engage Partners and Drive Action
Define Priority Outcomes and Set Annual Goals
Create Concrete Actions and Projects
Pursue Common Ground with Partners
Improve Communication Among Collaborative Members
Leverage Funding Opportunities
Engage Stakeholders
Keep Partners Motivated and Engaged
Measure Your Progress
Secure Sustainable Funding
Engage New Partners