When you plan for anything, the ultimate is the sustainability of whatever actions you roll out. Key for success in this is the local people. When you plan without their input -understanding their perceptions, you might end up doing zero work because you will not be there in perpetuity to see the sustainability of the plans. You can incorporate it through a participatory process. When you involve them, you get to learn about their perceptions, and therefore plan with this in mind.

But Dr. Saeed, we cant deny that some of the local perceptions are self-driven decision and thoughts which in some instances may cause failure or deviation of good plans.

I understand that, and, I fully agree with you. However, remember I used the world participatory. This is the moment you can use to positively explain perceptions that can cause failure -citing their own examples, where it warrants so! Politely though, so as to buy in good-will.

Yeah, you're right. But how can we justify that?

This is justified in the context of generating baseline data before actions. In this way, use of funds, is acceptable for the purpose. Remember, good plans can fail where perception is negative hence less support to sustain actions after completion and implementation of plans. Its also an opportune moment to obtain data for future evaluation of success or otherwise.

Dear Wilbert,

In my opinion, the most important perception is about pollution of  sources.

In the contexto of "planning", please see:

Nine Minimum Elements to Be Included in a Watershed Plan

http://www.epa.gov/region9/water/nonpoint/9elements-WtrshdPlan-EpaHndbk.pdf

Regards,

Vanessa

Hi Vanessa, to the issue "important perception is about pollution", I would add that it is important to find a way to explain the pathways of pollutants, so people understand that one way or the other pollutants will affect themselves, or relatives and friends further downstream, or livestock they eat afterwards etc. It is important to make people aware of the impacts of pollution.

Many relevant points are mentioned in the above discussion. I agree with Saeed on the importance of participation in watershed planning (as in all other forms of public planning). According to Principle No 2 in the Dublin 1992 Statement  we shall always involve the water users. North American and European experience points toward the necessity of engaging the public in watershed planning and management ("adopt-a-river" programs, and so forth). The public should  - ideally  -  share a perception of "our own river".

http://www.un-documents.net/h2o-dub.htm

Your plan has to be acceptable by public. This can be done by proper social marketing as well as public participation of all stakeholders. You have to convince them that your project benefits are  common good for all. However, you need to address the concerns and negative impact of your plan on public if any.