When wildfires threatened Lytton First Nation in 2021, Warren Brown was essential in protecting his community's water supply by staying behind-as others evacuated to safety-to ensure the water treatment plants remained up and running. He wanted to do everything he could to ensure his community had safe and clean drinking water to come home to. Warren's commitment to caring for his community's clean water supply continues to play a significant role in protecting their health and safety.
Today, Warren Brown of Lytton First Nation was announced as the 2023 recipient of the National First Nations Water Leadership Award at the 14th annual BC and Yukon Territory Water and Wastewater Operational Excellence Conference held in Vancouver, BC.
First nominated in 2022, Warren was at the forefront of the response to the 2021 wildfires that devastated Lytton First Nation and the Village of Lytton. Not only did he save the water systems in his own community, he also helped the Village of Lytton and continues to lead conversations about best practices for water services in the village. Warren operates 13 drinking water systems and has led work to lift six long-term drinking water advisories.
Admired for his professionalism and compassion, Warren continues to be a strong advocate for water operator education and training. He developed a summer program for youth interested in the field to help meet the need in many communities for a certified water operator.
Minister of Indigenous Services Patty Hajdu spoke with Warren this week to hear his insights into water management and conservation.
Now in its sixth year, the National First Nations Water Leadership Award recognizes First Nations organizations and individuals like Warren Brown who are making a difference in their communities. The nominees for this year's award are using innovation to improve access to clean drinking water, advocating for source water protection and water conservation, training and mentoring the next generation of water operators, and much more.
