Water Quality ProgramThe Shuswap Watershed Council (SWC) is focused on a watershed-wide collaborative program to maintain and enhance water quality “at the source.” This is different from the role of water suppliers to treat and deliver drinking water “at the tap.” Source water protection is a first line of defence. This is best done through collaboration since no single agency has the exclusive responsibility for keeping the watershed healthy. This is where the SWC comes in: as a partnership of several organizations with different roles in water, it facilitates different groups working together to protect and enhance water quality. Taking steps to protect Shuswap water resources is an important investment in the future of the region. It is easier and less costly to manage small programs now, while water quality is generally good, than to try to fix more serious problems later. Program OverviewThe SWC implemented its Water Quality Program in 2016, with financial support from the CSRD, TNRD, and City of Salmon Arm. In 2018, Adams Lake Indian Band became a financial supporter of the SWC’s work. This program complements and supports the work of agencies with responsibilities for water, and will not duplicate any functions. The program consists of two initiatives: 1) WATER MONITORING
2) WATER PROTECTION With guidance from an advisory committee, this initiative supports:
See the full five-year program plan here: Water Quality Program and Recreational Safety Education Program in the Shuswap Watershed (2016–2020).
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SWIM GUIDE APPGet up-to-date information about the water quality at beaches – including some popular ones in the Shuswap – using the Swim Guide app. The app is free and easy to use, and will provide you with recreational water quality for 7000 beaches and swimming sites in Canada, the US, Mexico and New Zealand. Check out the Swim Guide: EVERYONE CAN PLAY A ROLE!Everyone in the Shuswap can help protect water quality. This is so whether you are a farmer choosing fertilizers, a houseboat operator managing greywater, or an individual homeowner looking to lighten your footprint. How homeowners can help:
Also check out the SWC Water Protection Initiative brochure. HAVE YOU HEARD?Have you heard ... I Don't Flush! Pledge not to flush personal care products, such as floss, swabs and wipes, to help keep water quality and sanitary sewers in shipshape. NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT REPORT
A new report on nutrient management in the Shuswap is now available: see Agricultural Nutrient Management in the Shuswap Watershed for Maintaining and Improving Water Quality. The report canvasses current research and management practices for reducing phosphorus loading on agricultural land and for reducing the movement of phosphorus from agricultural land into surface water. It sets opportunities for further research, education and dialogue, and strategies to improve phosphorus management. The Shuswap Watershed Council commissioned the report to assist in the development of its five-year program.
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