people rely on for potable water as well as industrial uses, recreation and ecological health. James is particularly interested in how long water resides in a watershed, where it is stored and the pathways that it travels.


James explains that “Nipissing is really perfectly situated for this research, given its location within the headwaters of two watersheds, with Lake Nipissing flowing to the French River and on to Georgian Bay while Trout Lake flows into the Ottawa River. What happens in the North Bay region impacts water users both locally and downstream. If we can better understand how our watersheds process water, we can apply that knowledge to improve watershed health and support long term sustainability.”


Tanks in part to funding provided by the Canada Research Chairs program and Canada Foundation for Innovation, Nipissing has established a Watershed Analysis Centre.


Freshwater Summit from Science to Policy


In June 2010, Nipissing University’s Muskoka Campus hosted the National Freshwater Summit, linked to the concurrent G8 conference, and highlighted international water issues and examined policy options for water protection. Our approach to managing our inland lakes and rivers will have serious health, economic, social, cultural, and environmental implications. As global environmental degradation continues, acting responsibly at the local level while providing leadership in managing our freshwater resources is vital.


Te summit attracted some of Canada’s most prominent speakers on the topic of water resources, including Henry Lickers, John Smol, Norman Yan, David Schindler, Maude Barlow and Gordon Miller. Teir discussion was presented to the G8 leaders, who met the following week.


At the same time as this expert summit was taking place, a parallel summit for Muskoka’s youth was under way. Students were able to use an online workbook and resource tools prepared by Nipissing professor Dr. Jeff Scott, and students from the Schulich School of Education, acting as coaches, ensured these students were well prepared to engage in the conference discussion.


Te summit was made possible through a partnership featuring the university, the Town of Bracebridge, the District Municipality of Muskoka, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment and the Muskoka Watershed Council.


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