This news release has been updated to accurately reflect the Yukon Indigenous Representative on Mackenzie River Basin Board’s comment:
The governments of Yukon and the Northwest Territories have signed two Bilateral Water Management agreements. The agreements apply to the Peel and Liard River sub-basins, both of which are in the Mackenzie River Basin, and will help better manage and sustain the aquatic ecosystem health in these two key watersheds.
Together, the parties have agreed to:
- establish a Bilateral Management Committee for both watersheds, including representatives from First Nations whose territories overlap with each basin;
- classify rivers based on level of potential development, existing environmental conditions and level of sensitive or traditional uses;
- develop learning plans for rivers of higher concern, which may lead to increased collaborative monitoring; and
- share information and consult with each other on development or activities that may impact the aquatic ecosystems.
These agreements will continue to strengthen relationships and cooperation between the Government of Yukon and transboundary partners, and ensure these waters are protected now and for future generations.