Image: A group of paddlers celebrate on the Ottawa River in front of Parliament Hill
Photo Credit: Sven Brouwer
On June 21, 2002, a significant milestone was achieved in the realm of river conservation and stewardship in Canada. The Minister of Canadian Heritage, Sheila Copps, signed a proclamation declaring the second Sunday of June as Canadian Rivers Day. This day was established to promote public awareness of the importance of preserving the heritage and health of rivers in Canada. The creation of Canadian Rivers Day was the culmination of years of advocacy and dedication by many organizations.
The Journey to Canadian Rivers Day
Image: A canoer looks beyond the horizon of the still and calm waters of the Mattawa River
Photo Credit: CHRS Photo Contest 2011, photographer unknown
The idea of a national day dedicated to rivers was inspired by the success of BC Rivers Day, which had been celebrated for over two decades in British Columbia. Among the groups advocating for this annual celebration was the Canadian Heritage Rivers Board. The concept received unanimous endorsement at the 2001 Canadian Rivers Heritage Conference, setting the stage for the official proclamation the following year.
The CHRS's mission aligns perfectly with the goals of Canadian Rivers Day. By designating rivers or river segments as heritage rivers, the CHRS helps to raise awareness about the significance of these waterways and celebrates the efforts of the people who care for them.
Celebrating Canadian Rivers Day
Image: Two volunteers demonstrating how settlers dried cod for export to Europe between 1732 and 1745, on the Montague River. The Montague, along with the Brudenell and Cardigan Rivers make up the Three Rivers designation in the Canadian Heritage System
Photo Credit: Dale Dewar
Canadian Rivers Day is celebrated across the country. Events are organized to commemorate the day, including picnics, paddle-a-thons, voyageur canoeing, sharing river stories, creating river artwork, shoreline clean ups, and taking nature walks or bicycle rides along rivers. These activities not only bring communities together but also highlight the diverse ways in which rivers contribute to cultural and natural heritage in Canada.
The establishment of Canadian Rivers Day has had an important impact on river stewardship efforts in Canada. The annual event has helped spread the message that rivers are vital to maintaining healthy ecosystems and a healthy Earth.
The CHRS continues to support Canadian Rivers Day by promoting events and activities that engage the public and foster a deeper appreciation for river heritage. Through its ongoing efforts, the CHRS ensures that the legacy of Canadian Rivers Day endures, inspiring future generations to cherish and steward rivers in Canada.
Image: On a sunny day, a child sits on a dock on the St. John Canadian Heritage River and watches ducks swim by
Photo Credit: Mitchell Amos
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate Canadian Rivers Day each year, we are reminded of the importance of rivers and the need to protect them. By working together, we can ensure that rivers continue to support human life, remain a home to diverse plants and critters, and provide a source of history, beauty, and inspiration.
Join us in celebrating Canadian Rivers Day this Sunday, June 8th and help spread the message that rivers are worth protecting!