The Government of the Northwest Territories and the Canada Water Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) earlier this week to strengthen collaboration on shared freshwater priorities and advance the protection and stewardship of freshwater ecosystems across the Northwest Territories.
The two-year agreement establishes a framework for cooperation on issues affecting northern waters, recognizing the critical importance of fresh water to Indigenous peoples, communities, ecosystems, and the economy. The MOU supports joint efforts to address emerging challenges, including the impacts of climate change on northern freshwater systems.
The agreement also recognizes the unique position of the Northwest Territories as the ultimate downstream jurisdiction within the Mackenzie River Basin and the importance of partnership in managing freshwater resources across jurisdictions.
The MOU supports practical collaboration, including:
- Sharing data, research, expertise, and knowledge to support informed decision-making.
- Identifying opportunities to address freshwater information and monitoring gaps.
- Strengthening engagement and relationships with Indigenous partners.
- Supporting mentorship, learning, and collaboration among organizations.
- Advancing strategic freshwater protection and stewardship initiatives.
