Top 5 Water Challenges That Will Define British Columbia’s Future

Published On: September 1st, 2016

Author: Oliver M. Brandes and Rosie Simms

Escalating water challenges in BC require a better understanding and coordinated work to avoid future crisis. Drawing on an extensive review of media, court and tribunal cases, and insights from attending over 100 recent events related to water issues, this report documents dozens of examples of why and where critical water issues exist in the province’s watersheds. It focuses on 5 key issues: (1) Building resilience to droughts & floods; (2) Sustaining water for nature; (3) Understanding the state of B.C.’s watersheds; (4) Protecting water quality for drinking, swimming & fishing and (5) Reconciling the water-energy nexus. The report also suggests possible solutions to these five water challenges to create water security and sustainability over the coming years.

Top 5 Water Challenges That Will Define British Columbia's Future

Report Highlights

Map of Water Challenges in B.C.

Media Release