BC’s current licensing system for water does not apply to groundwater such that fisheries managers have few regulatory tools to curtail excessive groundwater extraction.
“The inclusion of ‘sustainability’ in the title of the proposed new Act reveals a welcome change in the way water could be viewed, However, the Proposal remains unacceptably vague on some key issues,” states Linda Nowlan.
Water in Canada, a Resource in Crisis – by Hanneke Brooymans
The quantity and quality of Canada's freshwater resources are diminishing at an alarming rate. Environmental journalist Hanneke Brooymans examines the effects of human activities on Canada's water, and presents a thought-provoking analysis of water issues.
According to Oliver Brandes, his POLIS Water Team has been active throughout the Water Act Modernization (WAM) process, providing research and feedback to the Ministry of Environment at every stage.
“We are CONNECTING THE DOTS between land use planning, development, watershed health AND infrastructure asset management. Those operating in the local government setting can now access tools and experience that will enable them to make a difference. The approach is keyed to three words: ALIGNMENT, COLLABORATION, INTEGRATION,” stated Kim Stephens.
“The inclusion of ‘sustainability’ in the title of the proposed new Act reveals a welcome change in the way water could be viewed. The hoped‐for emphasis on water sustainability recognizes that humans are not the only users of water,” wrote Linda Nowlan.
“Premiers across Canada endorsed the Council of Federation Water Charter in August 2010. Commitment #7 is to make a World Water Day 2011 a national event,” reports Stephanie Lepsoe, BC lead for Canada Water Week.
“In both Canada and the United States, light bulbs are going on about the inter-connectedness of green infrastructure and water sustainability, and the implications for watershed health. In December 2010, the Clean Water America Alliance brought together green infrastructure leaders from around the United States at a conference on urban water sustainability leadership,” states Kim Stephens.
Fresh Coast Green Solutions – cover (475p)
Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District
Milwaukee will continue to build grey infrastructure and consider ways to reduce inflow and infiltration throughout the entire system as well as to consider widespread implementation of green infrastructure.
“Struvite clogs wastewater pipes. Yet it also provides a sustainable source for the vital nutrient phosphorus as mined reserves are depleted,” says Don Mavinic.
