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

Published On: May 1st, 2005

Author: Oliver M Brandes, Keith Ferguson, Michael M'Gonigle, and Calvin Sandborn

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 Attitudes, institutions, and policies are changing, but an outdated supply-oriented paradigm still dominates.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.

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

Executive Summary