Climate change impacts and adaptation strategies in watershed areas in mid-hills of Nepal

The impacts of climate change are widespread, making watershed areas and watershed-dependent communities particularly vulnerable. The impact is more significant in developing countries where locals rely on watershed resources for their livelihoods. We examine the impacts of climate change and local peoples’ adaptation strategies in Begnas and Rupa watersheds in western Nepal. Using a mixed method approach we collect primary data including questionnaire surveys, field observations, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Our results reveal that the temperature around Begnas and Rupa watersheds has been increasing for the last 30 years while precipitation has both been decreasing and becoming more erratic. These fluctuations and anthropogenic activities impact agricultural productivity, degrade ecosystems, and reduce socioeconomic status. Local people use several adaptation strategies in response, including improved seeds, changing cropping patterns, cleaning invasive species in wetlands, constructing irrigation canals, diversifying income-generating activities, and launching sensitization and awareness campaigns. To support climate change adaptation, we recommend that the local government focus on participatory-based planning as well as mainstreaming climate change adaptation in the planning process.