Today, Member of Parliament Terry Duguid, on behalf of the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and the Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency, announced an investment of $1.6 million in 10 new freshwater projects to protect and restore Lake Winnipeg.
Lake Winnipeg is one of Canada's largest lakes and plays a vital role in the lives of millions of Canadians. It supports local economies and communities, accounting for over 25% of Canada's freshwater fishery revenue and over $600 million worth of hydroelectric generation annually. It also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many First Nations and Métis communities.
The Lake Winnipeg basin spans over one million square kilometers, crossing four Canadian provinces and four U.S. states. The basin contains about 70% of Canada's cropland, making it one of the most economically important agricultural regions in the country.
The health of the lake and basin is under increasing pressure from nutrient loading and algal blooms, invasive species, changes in land use, and impacts of a changing climate. Restoring the health of Lake Winnipeg is a priority for Canada's water security, economy and prosperity.
These projects are funded through the Canada Water Agency's Lake Winnipeg Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative, a part of the strengthened Freshwater Action Plan. They focus on reducing nutrient loading and enhancing Indigenous engagement in freshwater decision-making to improve the lake's water quality and ecosystem health.
Among the recipients:
- Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium will receive $708,900 to support in-lake science efforts. This includes the operation of their vessels, the MV Namao and the MV Fylgia, which are vital for governments, academia, and other partners to conduct research and monitor the lake.
- Ducks Unlimited Canada will receive $150,600 to help reduce phosphorus entering Lake Winnipeg by protecting and restoring wetlands. Funding will also support educational outreach to farmers to promote adoption of farming practices that reduce nutrient runoff and protect water quality.
- The University of Winnipeg will receive $218,000 to improve understanding of the risk of phosphorus runoff during snowmelt, including through the development of a snowmelt runoff risk map for the Red River Basin. It will also test the effectiveness of soil amendments (to reduce this risk) and the associated impacts on agricultural production.
These projects will create lasting economic and social value by supporting sustainable fisheries; restoring vital habitats; and engaging Indigenous peoples, local communities and landowners in stewardships efforts. Reducing phosphorus runoff and promoting sustainable land use practices across the Lake Winnipeg basin will help protect water quality while supporting farmers in growing more food sustainably.
Through the new Canada Water Agency, the Government of Canada enhances coordination and collaboration with provinces, territories, and Indigenous peoples to address freshwater challenges and opportunities in Lake Winnipeg and across the country. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to building a cleaner, more secure, and more prosperous future for all Canadians.
