Welcome to the Winter 2025 edition of News Splash. It’s been another productive quarter for Canadian Water Network (CWN) and our members, and I’m excited to share some updates.

First, mark your calendar! We are excited to announce the dates for Blue Cities 2026. The event is taking place June 9-10, 2026 in Gatineau, Québec, at the lovely Château Cartier Hotel & Resort. Registration, sponsorship, and program details will be available January 19, 2026 at BlueCities.ca.

In this edition of News Splash, you’ll find my interview with thought leader Peter Weltman, co-chair of the Canadian Infrastructure Council, where we discuss key takeaways from the recently released National Infrastructure Assessment. My latest CEO blog dives deeper into how data can guide funding programs and critical decisions to maintain and expand water infrastructure — essential for thriving communities and economic prosperity.

We’re also shining the water leader spotlight on Iman Hashemi, CEO of the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) and a valued member of our Municipal Water Consortium. Alongside these features, you’ll find updates on CWN’s activities as well as updates from the Government of Canada (e.g., the much-anticipated federal budget released in early November).

I’m delighted to welcome Anthony Parente as our newest member of CWN’s Board of Directors. At the same time, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Theresa McClenaghan for her five years of service as she steps down at the end of this year.

As we wrap up the year, I want to wish you, your family, and friends the happiest of holidays and a peaceful and prosperous year ahead. As you raise a glass of your drink of choice to toast the New Year, please take a moment to reflect on and appreciate how everyone in the water sector contributes to the health and well-being of all Canadians every single day.

Yours in woolly hat and mittens,

Nicola