The lifeblood of the region

The boreal forest is blessed with an abundance of clear cold lakes, fast-flowing rivers and diverse wetlands. It is also a place of many “divides” where waters flow in multiple directions.

As so many major rivers have their headwaters in the boreal forest and carry waters into other areas in many different directions, an impact on water here will affect people and wildlife living hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away. Additionally, actions taken within the watershed can have a significant and lasting impact on the quality and quantity of water available within the region. For example, extensive inland clearcutting can negatively affect a watershed’s aquatic habitats.

Moraines cut across the region and act like sponges, absorbing and filtering water. If these moraines are targeted for forestry or road building, their important role as water storehouses and filters in a region containing generally thin soils may be severely disrupted.

As we have learned from the experiences of the people of Grassy Narrows and Walkerton, a few poorly considered decisions are enough to destroy one of our most precious resources. Whether it is industrial pollution, lack of proper sewage or water treatment, the cutting down of shoreline forests, or the destruction of wetlands that store and purify water, the results can be devastating and potentially irreversible.

When looking at water, we must always remember that we cannot “create” or “grow” new water supplies. Water moves in an endless cycle from ground to air and back to ground. If we disrupt that cycle or pollute water bodies, we will have nowhere else to turn for the water that sustains us and the land around us. We must ensure the health and longevity of the abundant water sources, and those that depend on them throughout the boreal region.