At a Watershed: Ecological Governance and Sustainable Water Management in Canada

Date

2005-05-01

Authors

Brandes, Oliver M.
Ferguson, Keith
M'Gonigle, Michael
Sandborn, Calvin
Reynolds, Ellen (ed)

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Polis Project on Ecological Governance, University of Victoria

Abstract

This report focuses on the enabling environment that ensures holistic water management is institutionally embedded. Water is the strategic resource of the 21st century and Canada stands “at a watershed” in freshwater management. Attitudes, institutions, and policies are changing, but an outdated supply-oriented paradigm still dominates. Ultimately, the goal is “ecological governance,” where natural ecosystem processes are carefully considered at all levels of decision-making. The strength of this report lies in the rich mosaic of experiences and examples from around the world where theory and concept inform practice.

Description

At a Watershed is a collaborative project involving both The POLIS Project on Ecological Governance and the Environmental Law Centre at the University of Victoria. This report examines sustainable water management in the broader context of governance and provides a blueprint for a national water management strategy.

Keywords

ecological governance, water governance, international

Citation

Brandes, O.M., Ferguson, K., & M'Gonigle, M. (2006, May) At a Watershed: Ecological Governance and Sustainable Water Management in Canada, Victoria, Canada: The POLIS Project on Ecological Governance at the University of Victoria.