First Nations

Governments are legally required to respect the unique relationship and rights First Nations have regarding the land and water. First Nations rights and traditional practices, such as fishing and hunting, are dependent on healthy freshwater ecosystems. Therefore, threats to water quality and quantity have direct implications for the cultural and economic survival of Aboriginal peoples. Since respecting First Nations' rights requires that they be involved in water use and allocation decisions, they are important actors in water management decision-making across the country. See the Expert Panel on First Nations Safe Drinking Water reports for more information.