About the NSWA

Under the provincial Water for Life Strategy the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance became one of 11 Watershed Planning and Advisory Councils (WPAC) in Alberta in 2005. For more information on the work of WPACs take a look at our WPAC brochure.

NSWA fosters collaboration at the watershed level, create opportunities for stakeholders to come together, share resources and explore innovative solutions to watershed challenges. Our role is reflected in our key strategic goals which state the NSWA:

• Supports Collaborative Watershed Planning
• Provides Leadership in Watershed Management
• Promotes Watershed Knowledge Sharing

The NSWA is a non-profit society that is provided strategic direction and guidance by our 20-member elected Board of Directors which reflect the range of stakeholders within the watershed. The day to day operations of the NSWA Society are run by the Executive Director and staff.

Our key supporting watershed planning documents are the State of the Watershed Report completed in 2005 and the Integrated Watershed Management Plan which was released in 2012.

Click link to NWSA: NSWA website

The Science Behind the Ribbon of Life

Why Vegetated Shoreline Buffers Matter

What is the Ribbon of Life and why is it essential to the health and sustainable use of waterfront properties?

The ‘Ribbon of Life’ is the natural shield protecting our freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams. It is what mitigates erosion, protecting the beauty and property values of waterfront properties. It is a haven for wildlife. It is a key natural feature increasing resilience to climate change for people and wildlife.

Watersheds Canada’s survey of nearly 200 Ontario freshwater stakeholders found that the science of inland water ecosystems was the least understood area of shoreline stewardship.  

Please view Watersheds Canada’s Chris Dennison on November 28, 2022 as he discusses the scientific literature supporting the restoration and maintenance of native vegetation on shorelands and the importance of informed policies that protect both properties and the environment.

Please click the link: The Science Behind: Vegetated Shoreland Buffers