Why a Paddle Canada Threatened Waterways Designation?
Pollution, dams, and industrial development are just a few of the many threats faced by Canada's waterways. In recent years, climate change has emerged as an additional problem that jeopardizes the health of every waterway on Earth—through warmer water, changing water levels, and the introduction of alien or exotic species.

One of the core elements of Paddle Canada’s mandate is advocacy for a healthy natural environment. Paddle Canada’s Threatened Waterways designation draws attention to Canadian waterways that are in the most immediate need of our help. The designation provides groups with the ability to use the Paddle Canada brand in their efforts to draw attention to a threatened waterway. In addition, it provides opportunities for local action groups to partner with the National Paddling Association and our 1200 plus members to help protect our Canadian waterway heritage.

How does a waterway achieve the designation?
Individual, Instructor or Regional Member Associations of Paddle Canada nominates rivers. Nominations are made by submitting a written letter to the Board of Directors of Paddle Canada that outlines how the waterway is deserving of the designation based on the following three criteria.

1. National significance of the waterway (ecological, cultural, and economic values)
2. Magnitude of the threats facing the waterway
3. Opportunities in the coming year to make a positive intervention to either protect the ecological integrity of the waterway or restore it’s health.

How is the designation granted?
The Board of Directors of Paddle Canada reviews nominations and approves the designation. Once approved, the nominator is informed of the decision, the waterway is then listed on the Paddle Canada website as a threatened waterway and members of Paddle Canada are informed the designation has been granted.

Where do I send the nomination?

Paddle Canada Pagaie Canada
PO Box 20069
RPO Taylor-Kidd
Kingston ON K7P 2T6
Canada
Facsimilie: 613.547.4880
Email: info@paddlingcanada.com

[Click here for a printer friendly PDF version of this page]