Our History
Canadian Water Network was established in 2001, in response to Walkerton’s deadly drinking water crisis. Over the next 16 years, the organization invested more than $100 million in water research as a Network of Centres of Excellence. Today, the organization is an independent nonprofit that serves decision-makers across the water sector.
Our Network
We draw upon an extensive network of leading ‘thinkers & doers’ from government, academia, NGOs and industry to articulate key water challenges, share knowledge and practice insights, discuss effective strategies and build partnerships. We also connect with and support emerging water leaders through our Student and Young Professional program.
A National Leader
Through initiatives like our expert panel review of contaminants in wastewater, state-of-the-knowledge reports, Canadian Municipal Water Consortium, annual Blue Cities conference and collaborative projects with stakeholders, we are shaping important national narratives on some of Canada’s most complex water management challenges.
Land Acknowledgement
Canadian Water Network (CWN) respectfully recognizes and acknowledges the deep connection that First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada have with the land that all Canadians call home. Their rich history spans thousands of years on Turtle Island. We also honour and recognize the significance of the treaties that establish the relationship between Indigenous peoples and settlers on this land.
CWN recognizes the sacredness of water as understood by Indigenous peoples. Water is more than simply a resource. It’s a life-giving entity that sustains people, flora and fauna. CWN will continue its work supporting all Indigenous communities through this lens.
Our offices are located in Waterloo, Ontario, on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Situated on the Haldimand Tract, which granted land to the Six Nations, our office resides on a section of the Grand River extending six miles on each side.
We are grateful for the privilege to work and live on this land.