Environment Ministry highlights progress in protecting Yaque del Norte River

Santo Domingo.-The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources highlighted progress in efforts to protect and restore the Yaque del Norte River basin, reaffirming the watershed’s vital role in drinking water supply, agriculture, hydroelectric generation, and biodiversity conservation.

Led by Environment Minister Paíno Henríquez, the initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to improve water security through the conservation and restoration of the country’s major river basins, including the Haina and Nizao watersheds.

The ministry said it is implementing projects focused on reforestation, soil conservation, watershed restoration, and integrated water resource management in coordination with the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources (INDRHI), local governments, producers, community organizations, and international partners.

Authorities are also carrying out technical reviews of projects that could affect rivers and other surface water bodies, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while promoting sustainable development.

Among the flagship initiatives is the Watersheds and Climate-Resilient Communities (CReW-RD) project, a US$90 million program financed by the Green Climate Fund to restore strategic ecosystems, strengthen climate resilience, and expand nature-based solutions. The Yaque del Norte River basin will be one of the project’s primary areas of intervention.

According to the ministry, protecting the country’s watersheds is essential to securing long-term water supplies, reducing erosion, restoring ecosystems, and supporting sustainable economic development in the Dominican Republic.