“We can actually restore fish habitat and riparian areas, build refuge habitat, stabilize banks, stabilize sub-straits, and end up with a system that's going to be self-sustaining,” stated Jack Minard, Executive Director of the Comox Valley Land Trust.
“Rethinking Our Water Ways has been developed to help planners, decision makers and communities strengthen their capacity to look after healthy watersheds and water resources. The guide offers a primer on 10 different types of water and watershed planning processes that are available in BC to manage water supply and demand; protect drinking water quality; and better integrate water, land and watersheds,” states Steve Litke.
“It’s important now that we realize that water policy and effective improvement of the way we manage water is not merely a government strategy anymore— it has to be a broader societal commitment which includes the average citizen who has an interest in what’s happening in his or her watershed,” says Bob Sandford.
“This survey is a tale of romance between Canadians and their treasured water. But there’s a significant gap between romance and reality. We found a troubling lack of awareness not only about water conservation but also the very pressing need for investment in infrastructure. Mobilizing the political will to deal with these issues will be a challenge,” stated Chris Coulter.
“Water-centric planning means planning with a view to water. The underpinning premise is that resource, land use and community design decisions will be made with an eye towards their potential impact on the watershed. Implementation of water-centric strategies and solutions ultimately requires integration of missions, mandates and accountabilities of participating agencies,” states Erik Karlsen.
For many years, Australia and Europe have faced serious problems with the management and governance of their water resources. These challenges offer a glimpse into Canada’s water future.
“Dialogue is always a precursor to action in a healthy democracy. The challenge is to include a broader cast of characters so that more than just the “usual” suspects are involved in decisions. This forum was designed with the belief that collaborative solutions are within reach, calling on successful stories of change,” stated Oliver Brande.
