Watersheds are complex systems involving social, economic, and ecological dimensions that are constantly interacting and influencing each other, and governance of these systems involve a large and diverse cast of actors that add to the complexity and difficulty in deciding what is best for the watershed and people. Resilience thinking offers a way to understand and navigate the uncertainty, dynamics and complexity of watershed governance. This primer describes key ideas associated with resilience: more inclusive participation; building a shared understanding; inclusion of ecosystem services and functions in long-term planning; strong leadership; institutional and decision making flexibility; and, a decentralized system. This primer is an initial effort to translate the scholarly understanding of these key ideas and initiate a dialogue about their application in the context of watershed governance.

Citation:

Krievins, K., Baird, J., Plummer, R., Brandes, O., Curry, A., Imhof, J., Mitchell, S., Moore, M-L., and Gerger Swartling, Å. (2015). Resilience in a Watershed Governance Context: A Primer. St. Catharines, ON: Environmental Sustainability Research Centre. Available online.

This report examines the important role water plays in everyday life in Niagara. It highlights some of the benefits and potential challenges associated with the region’s reliance on water. It first presents what is known about water quantities used by sectors in the region and what is known about the benefits derived from those quantities used. This is followed by an overview of the complex water governance structure in Niagara, and some of the conflicts arising from this structure that were identified by community members in interviews. The report highlights the potential impacts of climate change for water use and benefits, and identifies some of the areas where Niagara may experience vulnerabilities, as well as where the region is well-situated to adapt to challenges.

Citation:

Dupont, D., Renzetti, S., Plummer, R., Heinmiller, T., Baird, J. (2013). Liquid assets: Assessing water’s contribution to Niagara. Thorold, ON: Niagara Region. Available online.

Through a partnership with Brock University Niagara Region commissioned a background report to better understand how climate change might impact Niagara. The report, “Adapting to Climate Change: Challenges for Niagara”, authored by Dr. Jennifer Penney, is now available and is expected to be a valuable resource to the many organizations and individuals working together to address the challenges of climate change in Niagara and in the development of community climate change action plans.

Citation:

Penney, J. (2012). Adapting to climate change: Challenges for Niagara. Thorold, ON: Niagara Region. Available online.

Through a partnership with Brock University Niagara Region commissioned a background report to better understand how climate change might impact Niagara. The report, “Adapting to Climate Change: Challenges for Niagara”, authored by Dr. Jennifer Penney, is now available and is expected to be a valuable resource to the many organizations and individuals working together to address the challenges of climate change in Niagara and in the development of community climate change action plans.

For the full document, please contact Bradley May.