Governance of groundwater resources in the municipality of Yopal

Abstract

This article focuses on analyzing how institutional, social, and individual stakeholders are involved in the protection of groundwater resources, in order to evaluate their roles in its governance.  The objective is achieved through the collection of information from field work, regulatory review, and literature, including surveys and interviews, permitting a qualitative approach to understanding the adopted behaviors in light of this vital resource.  The results of the investigation demonstrate that there is discordance among the stakeholders who operate independently and according to their own criteria.  Understanding the current state of the water management crisis allows consideration of alternative solutions to this problem, in order to promote true protection and sustainable use of hydro-subterranean resources.