AWWA ACE59895

In late 2001, the Niagara Region, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), andOntario Ministry of Environment (MOE), consulted to consider ways to more effectivelymanage Niagara's water resources. All parties agreed that in order to properly protect thearea's water, a more integrated approach would be required that took into consideration alljurisdictional levels. To this end, the three principals commissioned a study in August 2002to develop Niagara's Water Quality Protection Strategy (NWQPS).The consortium of MacViro Consultants Inc., CH2M HILL Canada Limited, and PhilipsEngineering Ltd., along with eight specialist firms, including Lura Consulting whichcompleted the community engagement component, worked together with area stakeholdersto produce the strategy in 14 months; releasing it, October 2003. The effort includedintensive consultation with active stakeholder groups that were organized by specific themeareas.The strategy involved an intensive data gathering exercise including over 1000 data items,comprising reports, maps, databases, and general information from 14 municipalities andover 30 formal agencies and watershed groups. Based on this information, an assessmentwas conducted of the sensitivity and value of the area's water resources, as well as theirpotential stressors (i.e. sources of contamination, flooding, water taking, etc.).The understanding gained from the study area characterization was subsequently used asthe underpinning to develop the management strategy. This phase of the work involvedsignificant consultation with area stakeholders to develop a prioritized action plan,comprised of over 400 area-wide and locally-specific activities organized into 11 focussedAction Programs, to address core issues related to water quantity and quality management.The NWQPS recommends that an integrated structure (including representation from theNiagara Region, NPCA, local municipalities, and agencies) be established to manage certainactivities directly under its control. In addition, this integrated structure, termed the NWQPSImplementation Team, is also to inform and be informed through involvement in numerousindirect activities, which would be carried out by other organizations. This integratedprocess will ensure that water resources are protected and managed in an effective manner. Includes 11 references, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

06/17/2004

Number of Pages:

15

File Size:

1 file , 4 MB