The Government of Yukon released the five-year report on the Yukon Water Strategy and Action Plan at the fourth annual Yukon Water Forum.

“This report marks the end of the Yukon Water Strategy and Action Plan, but not the end of our ongoing work with partners to sustainably manage and conserve Yukon’s most vital resource—our water,” said Pauline Frost, minister of environment. “Thank you to all those who helped implement this water strategy. I look forward to ongoing collaboration with Yukon water stewards and managers to ensure our water is managed responsibly.”

The final report highlights key actions taken since the water strategy was put into place in 2014. These initiatives include work from the Government of Yukon, federal, First Nations, and municipal governments, as well as researchers, industry, and community organizations. The actions include:

  • Creating a Yukon government groundwater program.
  • Increasing water monitoring across the territory.
  • Providing enhanced technical advice to inform decision-making processes.

The report also provides information on ongoing work and future priorities, including:

  • Improving flood forecasting tools to ensure communities are more resilient to climate change.
  • Continuing to develop a wetland policy.
  • Advancing transboundary water management agreements.
  • Coordinating efforts to monitor surface and groundwater quality and quantity.

“We are part of the land and part of the water! As the Headwaters of the Yukon River, it is crucial for Carcross/Tagish First Nation to have dialogue in respect to water,” said Lynda Dickson, Carcross/Tagish First Nation Haa Shaa du Hen (Chief). “We are Revitalizing our Tlingit and Tagish water laws and looking at developing a joint working group and developing a joint water legislation. Most importantly, people need to be educated on Spiritual aspects surrounding water. This forum was the perfect place to have that dialogue and strengthen relationships.”

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