Knowledge Translation ResearchThe research that the Canadian Water Network funds is fundamentally important to expanding knowledge about water issues in Canada. While this research has the capacity to clean our aquatic ecosystems, reduce the cost of replacing infrastructure and improve public health, it will do none of those things if it is not put into practice. Results from research projects need to be communicated to those people who can use the findings to invoke change - in industry, government and non-government organizations. Knowledge translation (KT) is the term used by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CHIR) to describe the process of putting research findings and the products of research into the hands of key audiences. KT is about using research findings to inspire people to think and/or act differently. It is about bridging the gap between the scientists in the lab conducting the research and the people in the field who can apply the research Knowledge translation leverages the value from research so that the results create better decision making, commercial solutions and uptake of new approaches to water management. KT initiatives are changing the way governments, industry and NGOs are developing technology, policy and market initiatives. Our work is contributing to social innovation and Canada's economic growth and competitiveness. CWN recognizes the inherent value in existing research knowledge, and as a result initiated a knowledge translation call for proposals. In March 2007 CWN funded four research projects to improve storm water management, increase understanding related to small water supply systems, improve watershed-level environmental risk assessments, and identify challenges for small water treatment systems. Our support will assist researchers to create innovative initiatives to accelerate the uptake and diffusion of their research results. Projects
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