Canada Water Agency advances efforts to restore and protect Lake Winnipeg

Member of Parliament Terry Duguid, on behalf of the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and the Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency, announced an investment of $1.6 million in 10 new freshwater projects to protect and restore Lake Winnipeg.

Today, Member of Parliament Terry Duguid, on behalf of the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and the Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency, announced an investment of $1.6 million in 10 new freshwater projects to protect and restore Lake Winnipeg.

Lake Winnipeg is one of Canada’s largest lakes and plays a vital role in the lives of millions of Canadians. It supports local economies and communities, accounting for over 25% of Canada’s freshwater fishery revenue and over $600 million worth of hydroelectric generation annually. It also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many First Nations and Métis communities. 

The Lake Winnipeg basin spans over one million square kilometers, crossing four Canadian provinces and four U.S. states.  The basin contains about 70% of Canada’s cropland, making it one of the most economically important agricultural regions in the country. 

The health of the lake and basin is under increasing pressure from nutrient loading and algal blooms, invasive species, changes in land use, and impacts of a changing climate. Restoring the health of Lake Winnipeg is a priority for Canada’s water security, economy and prosperity.

These projects are funded through the Canada Water Agency’s Lake Winnipeg Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative, a part of the strengthened Freshwater Action Plan. They focus on reducing nutrient loading and enhancing Indigenous engagement in freshwater decision-making to improve the lake’s water quality and ecosystem health.