Caption: Voyageur Canoe at Métis Crossing
Credits: Explore Edmonton
North Saskatchewan River (kisiskāciwani-sīpiy) in Alberta: A Canadian Heritage River
Flowing over 1,200 kilometres and known by many names, the North Saskatchewan River (kisiskāciwani-sīpiy [KEY-SIS-CATCH-WAN-SI-PPY] in cree/nêhiyawak and AAPÁTOHS O’MAHKAHTA in Blackfoot/Niitsitapi) originates from the toe of the Saskatchewan Glacier within the Columbia Icefield in Banff National Park. From its headwaters in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, kisiskāciwani-sīpiy carves its path across the rugged terrain of western Canada and treaties 6 and 8 territories and the homeland of the Métis Nation. Its journey encompasses diverse landscapes, from towering mountains to sprawling prairies, offering a glimpse into the country's geographical and ecological diversity.
As the North Saskatchewan River winds its way through the heart of Alberta, it serves as a lifeline for communities, ecosystems, and wildlife. Recently designated under the Canadian Heritage Rivers System, the Alberta section of this majestic river embodies a rich tapestry of stories that have shaped the past, present, and future of Western Canada.
But beyond its natural splendour, the North Saskatchewan River holds profound cultural significance for Indigenous communities, whose ancestors thrived along its banks for millennia. For Indigenous Peoples, the river is more than just a waterway—it's a lifeline, a source of sustenance and a repository of ancestral knowledge. The designation under the Canadian Heritage Rivers System acknowledges and honours this enduring connection, recognizes the river's role in shaping the cultural identity of the region and signifies a commitment to safeguarding its natural integrity for future generations.
Caption: Kayaking on the North Saskatchewan River
Credits: Parks Canada
25 Years of Stewardship: The North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance
Recognizing the interconnectedness of these elements, the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance (NSWA) has worked tirelessly to foster cooperation amongst communities, partners, and river users. Established in 2000, the NSWA has been at the forefront of efforts to steward this vital and cherished watershed.
For nearly a quarter of a century, the NSWA has led collaborative initiatives that address the complex challenges facing the North Saskatchewan Watershed and spearheaded initiatives aimed at safeguarding the watershed’s health and integrity. By promoting healthy aquatic ecosystems, the organization helps to protect and restore critical habitats within the watershed, enhancing biodiversity and ecological resilience. From water quality monitoring and habitat restoration projects to community engagement and education efforts, the organization has played a pivotal role in raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices.
As the NSWA approaches its 25th anniversary, it not only reflects on its achievements but also acknowledges the broader context of water management in Alberta. By building on its successes and learning, the organization strives to ensure that the region and wider province’s water resources remain healthy, resilient, and abundant for years to come.
Central to this initiative is the Alberta Water for Life Strategy, a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the province's water resources. Launched in 2003, the strategy embodies a holistic approach to water management, focusing on three key pillars: healthy aquatic ecosystems, reliable quality water supplies, and safe, secure drinking water. It provides a roadmap for sustainable water management, emphasizing the need for collaboration, innovation, and adaptive management to address the complex challenges facing the province's water resources.
Caption: The North Saskatchewan River flowing through Edmonton Alberta
Credits: Explore Edmonton
Against this backdrop, the NSWA's role in implementing and contributing to the objectives of the strategy becomes even more significant. One of the NSWA’s most notable achievements has been the development and implementation of the North Saskatchewan Integrated Watershed Management Plan. Developed in 2012, the plan provides a framework for managing water resources within the watershed, balancing the needs of various users while preserving ecological integrity.
The 25th anniversary milestone serves as an opportunity to reflect on the organization's journey, celebrate its achievements, and chart a course for the future. As the NSWA looks ahead, it does so with a sense of pride in its accomplishments and a renewed commitment to its mission. To that end, we intend to remember past accomplishments as well as inspire a new generation of stewardship and foster an ever-deeper appreciation for the North Saskatchewan watershed.