POLIS Water Sustainability Project, University of Victoria RE: Watershed Security Strategy Intentions Paper – Full Submission

A vision that articulates the link between watershed security and the socio- economic benefits to local community development (such as employment in the watershed sector, cost savings through proactive climate adaptation and disaster mitigation, and the urgent and necessary transition from sunsetting industries) will help deliver a unifying strategy that minimises division. [...] Focus on the Fund: While government builds a clear timeline and the necessary internal capacity to execute the Watershed Security Strategy, ongoing attention and further investment will be needed in order to increase Strategy’s impact and strengthen community’s and Indigenous ability to effectively partner and support the implementation of its associated priorities. [...] The success of the Watershed Security Strategy and Fund will depend on accountable and timely implementation, building capacity both inside government and resources for communities to be effective partners, and deploying new tools and innovative solutions that significantly change the current approach and are consistent with the principles and direction set out in this submission. [...] The appointed office would have the capacity and expertise to respond rapidly to urgent watershed issues, coordinate with and provide direction to various partners and stakeholders, leverage internal and external expertise and lead investigations and reviews, all while raising the profile and importance of watershed security and ensuring that the public is kept informed and engaged. [...] 9 APPENDIX B: Function and Characteristics of a Robust Strategy The most important role of a prospective strategy is to help government organize itself, secure internal priorities and resources, and drive a cohesive cross-ministerial and -government approach to watershed security that can deliver on the ground.