Canada opens public survey for first national water-security strategy

Canadians can now submit ideas for the country’s first National Water Security Strategy through an online survey that remains open until October 25.

The Canada Water Agency launched the public-engagement phase on September 9 and highlighted it in a September 10 announcement. The federal government says the strategy is intended to address freshwater challenges, protect ecosystems, improve community resilience and support reliable water access for industry.

What the consultation covers

The agency is seeking priorities, experiences and possible areas for joint action. It is also consulting provincial, territorial and Indigenous partners and stakeholders from multiple sectors. A summary of the public feedback is expected later in 2026; the announcement does not set a date for a completed strategy.

The federal release identifies drought, flooding, pollution, wildfire, aging water infrastructure, groundwater pressure, permafrost degradation and algal blooms among the issues facing Canada’s freshwater systems.

Separately, the agency announced $480,000 for three partner-led Fraser River projects, including $169,000 over two years for community water-quality monitoring and restoration work led by the Raincoast Conservation Foundation.

Sources: Canada Water Agency consultation page, modified September 9, 2026, and its September 10 news release.