The Government of the Northwest Territories and the Canada Water Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding this week to affirm their collaboration on shared freshwater priorities in the North.
“Protecting water is not only an environmental priority. In the Northwest Territories especially, it is essential for community well-being, traditional harvesting, transportation, economic opportunity and future generations of Northerners,” said Minister Jay Macdonald.
This two-year agreement creates a framework for cooperation on issues affecting northern waters, such as the impacts of climate change.
It also recognizes the NWT’s position as the ultimate downstream jurisdiction within the Mackenzie River Basin, and the importance of partnership and communication across jurisdictions when managing freshwater resources.
“By working together, the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Canada Water Agency, are ensuring our freshwater ecosystems remain healthy and resilient for generations to come,” said Minister Rebecca Alty.
Some of the collaboration this MoU supports includes the sharing of data and research, strengthening engagement with Indigenous partners, advancing freshwater protection and stewardship, and addressing gaps in freshwater monitoring.
“Our government will continue to support informed decision-making as we advance the protection of northern freshwater ecosystems together,” said Minister Rebecca Chartrand.
