Proposed River Management Plan

This volume provides readers with an opportunity to learn from front line water managers of watershed-based agencies across Canada about integrated water management (or integrated water resource management). In common with practice in much of the world, the responsibility for implementing integrated watershed management in Canada is fragmented. Each province and territory in Canada has developed unique approaches or governance models to guide decision making in that regard. Thus, this edited volume enables readers from around the world to gain insight on the best practices in Canada for achieving success and addressing barriers to implement IWM. Although there remains non consensus about how to "best" approach river basin management, some of the main observations include: There is a need to balance a focus on "the big picture", with scoping the scale and scope of planning activities in order that feasible and effective solutions can be implemented Three types of integration are popular among the agencies included in the book: (i) among environment, economy and society, (ii) interactions between people and the environment and (iii) integration (or coordination) of administrative activities. Much more attention is required to achieving effective engagement from Indigenous communities The chapters were originally published in a special issue of the International Journal of Water Resources Development.

The Water for Life strategy outlines the Government of Alberta's commitments to manage and safeguard Alberta's water resources, now and in the future. The strategy has been the vehicle for managing Alberta's precious water resources since its release in 2003. Because it has been such an effective tool for managing Alberta's water resources, the Government of Alberta renewed the strategy and will implement a renewed action plan. The Water for Life renewal builds upon the good work already undertaken and reaffirms the Government of Alberta's commitment to the Water for Life approach for the wise management of Alberta's water quantity and quality for the benefit of all Albertans. Five years later, Albertans continue to care about the health of the aquatic environment, as well as issues concerning water quality and quantity. They are also aware of the impacts of climate change, unprecedented economic growth and development, and population demands on Alberta's water resources. The renewed Water for Life strategy and action plan reflect current issues in our province and the recommendations made by the Alberta Water Council. It is a renewal that builds on an already strong foundation to ensure continued sustainable water quality and quantity in Alberta. In most cases, significant foundational work has begun or will be initiated in the short-term.