The “Decision Support and Nurturing Management of Watersheds”, also known as Project DANUM, is a DOST-funded project by the University of the Cordilleras. For the year 2022, through its initiatives and impacts, this project proves to be a model for responsible and inclusive water resource management, benefiting not only local communities but also advancing the global goal of conserving and safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.

Project DANUM achieved its objectives by signing a Memorandum of Agreement with various stakeholders, including the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Baguio, Itogon, and Tuba. Through this collaboration, numerous sensors were installed along the river to continuously monitor water quality, river conditions, and surface temperature; thus, contributing to the preservation of the aquatic ecosystem. Additionally, landcover maps have been shared with LGUs to enhance their understanding of landcover changes in their respective areas.

The team has also organized a watershed management seminar and conducted a biodiversity assessment in collaboration with the LGUs of Baguio, Itogon, and Tuba. These programs have been instrumental in preserving the flora and fauna within the Bued River.

The team is currently a member of the water councils of Baguio and Tuba, under the Bued Water Quality Management Area and the Bued Watershed Council. They have actively participated in consultations for the 10-year Tuba Water Resources Development and Protection Plan, aimed at sustainable resource management and rural development.

Project DANUM is an externally funded project of the University of the Cordilleras. It has a total funding of PhP 7.8 million. Its primary objective is to conserve and protect rivers and watersheds within the Cordilleras; with a specific focus on the Bued River watershed, covering the City of Baguio, Municipality of Tuba, and parts of the Municipality of Itogon.