Protecting fresh water: Canada Water Agency invests over $4.5 million in 39 new projects across the country

The Canada Water Agency announced over $4.5 million for 39 new projects funded through EcoAction and the Fraser River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative.

December 18, 2025 – Vancouver, British Columbia 

The Canada Water Agency announced over $4.5 million for 39 new projects funded through EcoAction and the Fraser River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative.

EcoAction supports partner-led projects across Canada that improve water quality and protect fresh water and ecosystem health through local actions and innovative solutions.

The Fraser River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative focuses on advancing science and knowledge, collaboration and engagement, and reducing nutrients and contaminants in the Fraser River basin. 

Stream 1: Community-led freshwater action across Canada 

Tsartlip First Nation  
Project: KÉNNES Watershed Restoration: Preserving Ecosystems, Building Climate Resilience, and Protecting WSÁNEĆ Cultural Practices
Funding Amount: $100,000 over 2 years 
Project Description: This project will restore 10,000 square metres of riparian, wetland, and stream habitats within the KÉNNES watershed. Such work will improve water quality, enhance habitat for native species (like Coastal Cutthroat Trout), and support cultural revitalization through Indigenous-led stewardship, youth engagement, and community participation.

Fraser Basin Council 
Project: Vedder River Restoration Project: Youth-Led Action for Freshwater Health 
Funding Amount: $73,250 over 2 years 
Project Description: This project will engage youth in improving freshwater quality and habitat for salmon and other native species in the Vedder River. Goals of the project include learning about different approaches to restoration, helping youth explore career pathways in sustainability, and transferring knowledge to the wider community to encourage long-term behaviour changes.