SparrowWe humans have not always recognized the importance of, and our responsibility in, safeguarding the environment. In fact, we didn't always recognize that the industries that we build and the ways in which we use our resources can be damaging to the environment - or that damaging the environment can directly affect our health and our well being. Scientific and public awareness of the important balance between humans and nature has increased slowly.

Non-toxic Cleaning ProductsWhat can We do to Improve Our Water Quality?

The choices Canadians make every day can help protect our water sources. Individual actions such as taking used engine oil and other household hazardous waste to a proper waste facility, to collective efforts of Canadians working together to develop watershed-based source protection and integrated management plans can assist in protection.

Water conservation means doing the same with less, by using water more efficiently or reducing use where appropriate, in order to protect the resources now, and for the future.  Using water wisely reduces pollution and health risks, lowers water costs and extends the useful life of existing supply and waste treatment facilities. It is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to ensure sustainable supplies of fresh water. For the average household, water conservation practices can result in up to 40% reduction in water use!

How to Flood Proof Your Home

Learn as much as you can about flooding in your community.

If your house is located in one of the areas mapped under the Flood Damage Reduction Program, you can receive detailed information on flood levels from Environment Canada offices.

• Pick up after your pet to prevent harmful bacteria from polluting stormwater.
• Use rain barrels to collect stormwater from your roof to reduce runoff of rainwater.
• Use the water on your lawns and gardens.
• Hand weed to avoid the use of herbicides.
  

As an individual there are a number of ways that you can help protect aquatic ecosystems:

   1. Read the Landowners Resource Centre’s guides on how to restore and protect natural shorelines and fish habitat;
   2. Know your responsibilities as a landowner when doing any construction that may impact local water resources; and
   3. Get Involved in a community stewardship program.

Take Action to Reduce the Effects of Climate Change:

Conserving water quantity and protecting water quality, in addition to energy conservation steps will help to reduce the effects of Climate Change.

1. Water Conservation:

It is actually quite easy to cut back on the amount of water we use if we follow the 3Rs of water conservation: reduce, repair and retrofit.

Visit our calendar of watershed events!