Drinking Water and Watershed Management Community Engagement
Duncan, BC – Drinking water and watershed management have consistently been identified as priority issues by the public. In early 2017, the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) asked the community for its input on the role of local government in addressing drinking water and watershed protection in the Cowichan watershed.
“Through this consultation, we heard loud and clear from the community that drinking water and watershed management challenges are not unique to one community or one watershed, but exist throughout the regional district,” explains Chair Jon Lefebure. “While our original engagement early last year focused on the Cowichan watershed specifically, through ongoing discussions with the community and stakeholder groups, we understand we need to look at a regional approach to drinking water and watershed management.”
Building on engagement activities in 2017, the CVRD will be reaching out to the community again throughout February to get input on possible options for a drinking water and watershed protection service for the region.
The CVRD’s outreach will involve conversations with the community regarding the complexity of issues facing the region, the opportunities that exists to address some of these issues, as well as identify gaps that exist in our ability to respond to current or emerging issues.
There are a number of ways the public can provide their input – online at www.placespeak.com/drinkingwater or by attending one of the following open houses.
Tuesday, February 6 3-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Cowichan Lake Sports Arena
Thursday, February 8 3-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Island Savings Centre
Tuesday, February 13 3-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Kerry Park Recreation Centre
Thursday, February 15 3-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Frank Jameson Centre, Ladysmith
The public’s input and further recommendations will be considered by the Regional Services Committee at its March 28 meeting.
For more information visit www.cvrd.bc.ca/drinkingwater or www.placespeak.com/drinkingwater