CPAWS New Brunswick’s Recommendations to Clean Water Act Review Process

The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – New Brunswick Chapter (CPAWS NB) has submitted recommendations to the provincial government calling for a modernized Clean Water Act that reflects the realities of climate change, biodiversity loss, and growing pressures on the province’s watersheds.

“Protecting nature is protecting water,” said Roberta Clowater, Executive Director of CPAWS NB. “The wetlands, forests, rivers and peatlands that shape New Brunswick’s landscape are the foundation of clean drinking water, climate resilience, and healthy communities.” 

In its submission, CPAWS NB urges the province to strengthen protections for wetlands and peatlands, implement watershed-based planning across the province, align the Clean Water Act with other conservation laws, and establish stronger safeguards for coastal ecosystems facing increasing climate risks.

The organization also recommends greater transparency and monitoring of water quality and watershed health, as well as stronger alignment between water protection and New Brunswick’s conservation and climate commitments.

“Modernizing the Clean Water Act is a critical opportunity to ensure that water protection, nature conservation, and climate resilience move forward together,” Clowater said. “Healthy watersheds are natural infrastructure that protect communities, support biodiversity, and secure drinking water for generations to come.”