Our Programs and Projects

Alberta WPACs build long-term partnerships that examine watershed issues, make recommendations to the appropriate water and land use decision-making authorities, and undertake an adaptive approach to watershed management that benefit Alberta’s watersheds.

Adaptive Approach to Watershed Management

Although not an exhaustive list, Alberta WPACs are actively involved in the following roles:

• Provide a forum where stakeholders meet to share information and to identify, discuss and recommend priorities for issues and initiatives within their watershed.


• Undertake State of the Watershed reporting where indicators of the health of the watershed, the pressures facing it, and the data and research gaps that need to be addressed are identified and compared over time.


• Prepare watershed management plans that identify issues and examine the best course of action to address them. These plans may address a number of areas including water, land use, and information needs. They may also include a water management plan with Water Conservation Objectives as outlined under the Framework for Water Management Planning.


• Seek adoption of these plans by the jurisdictions (municipal, provincial and federal) and stakeholders with the appropriate legislated authority to implement recommendations.


• In collaboration with its stakeholders, assist in the development and implementation of water conservation, water monitoring, source water protection and wetland programs.


• Promote awareness and implementation of best management practices by landowners and other stakeholders in the watershed.


• Conduct education and awareness programs such as riparian health assessments, field demonstration sites, and other stewardship activities.


• Produce and release annual reports on activities and accomplishments.