Building on the Coalition’s work in support of economic recovery funding for watershed security (which resulted in $27 million invested in watershed projects across the province), the BC Watershed Security Coalition will bring its collective voice on two priorities articulated in provincial government mandate letters: 1) a BC Watershed Security Strategy, and 2) a BC Watershed Security Fund. The Coalition will engage in constructive and solutions-oriented dialogue with the Province to:
- Create a permanent BC Watershed Security Fund that provides sustainable & independent funding for communities to build the capacity and resilience required to secure the health of their local watersheds, including the fish, wildlife and nature that depend on them.
- Advance Local Watershed Boards across BC working with First Nations.
- Create good, sustainable local jobs in restoration, monitoring, technology and planning and support education and training in the watershed sector.
- Advance reconciliation and deliver in a concrete way on provincial UNDRIP and DRIPA commitments.
- Build a more visible connection between communities and their watersheds, supporting the tourism and recreation sectors.
6. Implement the Water Sustainability Act in partnership with First Nations.
7. Establish a First Nations-BC government process to address watershed security issues.
8. Under BC’s Climate Adaptation Strategy implement nature-based solutions and green infrastructure for Flood & Drought Mitigation.
9. Implement the Auditor General’s recommendations on Source Drinking Water Protection.
10. Appoint a new Provincial Water Security Officer.