The widely accepted and recognized modern principles of water resources management require watershed-wide approach. It was already incorporated in water codes of many countries as well as international treaties such as Water Framework Directive adopted by EU. Watershed-wide approach to water resource management was also proclaimed in Russia and Ukraine. However, there is no any practical implementation of these nice principles.
The Azov Center for Watershed Cooperation was established in 2009 aiming to enhance environmental security and facilitate sustainable development of the Azov Sea region. The purpose of the Center is to carry out research, education and coordination functions in sustainable management of water and aquatic resources.
The Center aims to facilitate cooperation over water related issues in the Azov Sea watershed, shared between Russia and Ukraine.