Keeping our watersheds healthy.

Watersheds comprise all the land that drains into a waterbody, including streams and rivers, lakes, and oceans.  Healthy watersheds provide food, fibre, and habitat for native animals. They produce clean water for consumption as well as water for power, agriculture, and industry. They move sediments and cycle nutrients, purify and store water, and regulate flow to reduce downstream flooding. Furthermore, functioning watersheds moderate extreme weather, absorb pollutants, and store carbon, offering resilience to climate change.

The vision.

The fisheries and watershed vision is for operations to be watershed stewards working to keep water clean, allow the species that rely on healthy watersheds to thrive, and maintain the integrity of the physical formations and processes that support watershed functioning.

Maintaining their health and function.

Any work around water or other components of a functioning watershed can have impacts on water quality, fish and wildlife species, and habitat. When foreign substances are introduced into water, this can influence water flow, natural drainage, alter nearby wetlands, and impact flood protection. Foreign substances are also detrimental to species and habitat both in and beside the water.

Watersheds can be impacted by activities year-round. Ensuring that work in and around watercourses is planned and carried out in compliance with environmental legislation and with the advice of a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) is key to maintaining healthy and sustainable watersheds.