Why the International Day of Action for Rivers matters

The International Day of Action for Rivers is a time for reflection and celebration of the importance of rivers, streams, and lakes in our daily lives.

These bodies of water provide us with drinking water, recreational opportunities, and important habitats for a wide range of aquatic life.

Kawartha Conservation plays a vital role in supporting these important waterways through its work in Integrated Watershed Management, Stewardship, Planning and Permitting.

Kawartha Conservation's Integrated Watershed Management staff work to protect and manage the health of the watershed in the Kawartha region.

“The watershed is a complex system of interconnected water bodies, including lakes, rivers, and wetlands, and the staff uses an integrated approach to address issues such as water quality, flooding, and erosion,” explained Mark Majchrowski, CAO at Kawartha Conservation. “This approach takes into account the diverse needs of stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and other organizations, and aims to balance these needs with the conservation of the watershed's natural resources.”

Rivers are essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem. They provide habitats for various plant and animal species and serve as a crucial source of water for both wildlife and humans. Rivers act as natural filters, cleansing the water and removing pollutants. They also help to regulate the temperature of the surrounding environment by acting as a natural cooling system. The vegetation around rivers helps to absorb carbon dioxide, which helps to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Rivers are also important for maintaining the water cycle. They serve as a primary source of water for rainfall, and they transport water from one place to another. Rivers feed into lakes and wetlands, which helps to maintain the natural water balance in these ecosystems.

At Kawartha Conservation, Stewardship staff work to engage and educate the community about the importance of protecting the local watershed. They provide resources and support to landowners and farmers to help them manage their land in a way that supports healthy waterways. This includes providing advice on best management practices for agricultural operations and working with local residents to create habitat for pollinators and other wildlife.

One of the key tools used by Kawartha Conservation to guide their work is the Lake Management Implementation Action Plan. This plan is part of a comprehensive series of documents, including Lake Management Plans, Lake Characterization reports, and more that outlines the current state of the watershed, identifies key issues, and provides data-driven information to stakeholders.

“It is an important tool for supporting the local watershed and ensuring that decisions are based on the best available information,” explained acting Manager of Integrated Watershed Management at Kawartha Conservation, Nancy Aspden. “The work of Kawartha Conservation is critical to the health of the local watershed and the communities that depend on it.”

Taking a multi-department approach to supporting a healthy watershed is what makes Kawartha Conservation a unique organization, well-positioned to know what’s happening within the environmental ecosystem, and how best to support it moving forward.

“Our efforts help to ensure that we have access to clean, safe drinking water, that our local rivers and lakes are healthy and provide productive habitats for aquatic life, and that we can continue to enjoy recreational opportunities on these important waterways,” said Kristie Virgoe, Director of Stewardship and Conservation Lands.

Kawartha Conservation's Stewardship and Integrated Watershed Management staff works closely with landowners to undertake important projects to support rivers in their region. These projects range from planting trees and vegetation along riverbanks to improving fish habitats and erosion control measures.

One of the primary ways in which Kawartha Conservation works with landowners is through the Water Fund. This is an annual grant program that helps landowners access funding, knowledge and technical support for environmental projects in the City of Kawartha Lakes and Durham Region.

Stewardship staff works with landowners to identify issues on their property that may be impacting the health of nearby rivers and to develop solutions to mitigate these issues.

In addition, Kawartha Conservation staff also provides education and outreach to landowners and the community about the importance of protecting and preserving rivers. They provide workshops and training sessions on topics such as shoreline restoration, invasive species management, and water quality monitoring.

“As we celebrate the International Day of Action for Rivers, we should take a moment to recognize and appreciate the important work that organizations like Kawartha Conservation, and the other Conservation Authorities in the province do to support these vital resources,” said Robert Rock, Scugog Ward 3 Councillor and Chair of the Kawartha Conservation Board of Directors. “Their dedication to Integrated Watershed Management, Stewardship and Planning and Permitting helps to ensure that we can continue to enjoy and benefit from our local waterways for generations to come.”

Rivers offer many opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation. From fishing and boating to swimming and kayaking, rivers provide a wide range of activities for people of all ages. They are also a popular destination for camping and hiking, offering breathtaking views and access to natural resources.

Many communities have developed around rivers, providing opportunities for local businesses and tourism. Rivers are often seen as an important aspect of community identity, providing a source of pride and promoting a sense of belonging.

“Rivers are the lifelines of our planet, providing us with essential resources and supporting diverse ecosystems,” said Kawartha Lakes Ward 2 Councillor and Kawartha Conservation Board Vice-Chair, Pat Warren. “Kawartha Conservation plays a crucial role in protecting and preserving these vital waterways, ensuring their health and sustainability for generations to come.

“Today, on this International Day of Action for Rivers, we all celebrate the great work of Kawartha Conservation and the immense benefit they provide to our communities and our entire region,” Warren added.