Profile assessment and protection of Way Karang Spring as a priority water spring in South Sumatera, Indonesia.

Currently, the quantity, quality, and quantity of springs in various regions of Indonesia have changed or decreased. This is due to various factors, including deforestation and changes in how water catchment areas function. Limited data and information has been identified as a weakness in spring protection efforts. In this regard, an integrated, spatiallybased database that is easily understood and accessible to all parties is required for reference in planning activities. This research aims to provide the public with a complete picture of data and information on priority springs. Data was collected using the desk study method and interviews with relevant agencies, communities, and other stakeholders. The spring data collected included general, biophysical, socioeconomic and spring management information. Way Karang Spring was selected to be the subject of this research after several assessments. Based on the result, Way Karang Spring is classified as having interrupted status damage, and spring protection efforts are being made to restore the spring's quality. This spring is extremely important to the community. Way Karang Spring must be preserved to meet the water needs of the local community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]