VICTORIA, B.C. – Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy announced it is developing a watershed security strategy and fund. Sonia Furstenau, leader of the B.C. Greens and MLA for Cowichan Valley has issued the following statement:
“I am relieved that action is being taken to establish and resource a Watershed Security Strategy and Fund in British Columbia. It is a testament to the hard work of communities around the province, as well as the devoted water policy experts at UVic’s POLIS Project.
“The events of the last year have demonstrated that we need urgent investment in our natural infrastructure, with particular focus on building ecosystem and community resiliency. Our watersheds are key not only to healthy drinking water, but to food security, ecosystem health, and landscape stability. We also know that our watersheds are deeply connected to our forests; I look forward to seeing more meaningful commitments on the part of the provincial government to conserve and restore forests in areas key to watershed stability.
“I also hope to see the provincial government acknowledge the negative impacts of fracking on water resources and human health. This NDP government has continued to provide subsidies to this industry, without taking into account the long term health and environmental costs.
“Today’s news is encouraging and a step in the right direction. For all of those who advocated for improved watershed governance in BC: thank you.
“Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to remind British Columbians who rely on groundwater of the fast-approaching registration deadline to license their non-residential groundwater use. It is imperative that this registration is completed as soon as possible, and anyone who needs assistance is encouraged to call Frontcounter BC.”
Resources:
- Water license application (deadline March 1, 2022)
- For support with your application: Frontcounter BC, 1-877-855-3222, [email protected]
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Media contact
JoJo Beattie
Press Secretary
B.C. Green Caucus
+1 250-882-6187 | [email protected]