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Lake Winnipeg Basin Summit (2010)









On November 30th and December 1st, 2010, approximately 150 scientists, policy-makers, business leaders, civil society members and other stakeholders convened in Winnipeg for an intensive, two-day “Lake Winnipeg Basin Summit” hosted by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) Water Innovation Centre (WIC).

The discussions focused on how to develop solutions for Lake Winnipeg water quality and nutrient loading that not only address environmental concerns, but also recognize social and economic values.

The springboards for dialogue were presentations by IISD staff and guest speakers. Special attention was paid to the opportunity to transform the “problem of Lake Winnipeg” nutrient loading into a strategic opportunity for innovation and sustainable development through such cutting-edge approaches as harvesting plant materials from existing and restored wetlands to create bio-products (products made from renewable resources). IISD research suggests the careful application of this idea has the potential to generate substantial revenues for investors and farmers, while also enhancing habitat and greatly reducing nutrient loads.

Other presentations given were:

Attendees engaged in lengthy facilitated group and plenary discussions throughout the two-day event. Attendees were asked to consider what they envisioned for the Lake Winnipeg Basin by the year 2040, and discussed how a shared vision could be pursued.

The final discussion session resulted in consensus on the need for partnership and collaboration, and a call for IISD to chair a stakeholder group tasked with producing a five-year action plan that incorporates innovative approaches and economic benefits for Manitobans. IISD now plans to convene a meeting of stakeholders in early 2011 to begin the transition to a solutions agenda for the Lake Winnipeg Basin.

The summit also saw the government of Manitoba announce new funding support for IISD’s Netley-Libau Marsh Management Project.

Summit discussions and consensus around some initial next steps going forward can be found in our report, The Lake Winnipeg Basin Summit: Synthesis and next steps.

On December 1st 2011, IISD's Water Innovation Centre convened a first anniversary meeting of the Summit to review progress and inspire progress. See here for further details on this meeting.

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