Federal Visit to CCRWS Showcases Community-Led Conservation Research

May 25, 2026

On May 22, 2026, the Centre for Cold Regions and Water Science (CCRWS) welcomed federal leaders for a visit focused on community-led conservation, freshwater stewardship, and northern research impact. The event showcased how Laurier researchers and CRRC members are contributing to conservation science, Indigenous partnerships, climate adaptation, and decision-ready environmental monitoring across northern Canada.

The visit included The Honourable Nathalie Provost, Secretary of State (Nature), and The Honourable Bardish Chagger, Member of Parliament for Waterloo. Guests toured the CCRWS facilities and learned about Laurier’s interdisciplinary conservation and freshwater research initiatives.

As part of the research showcase, Dr. Heidi Swanson presented work on Indigenous-led freshwater stewardship and northern food security. Dr. Homa Kheyrollah Pour highlighted community-based ice and water monitoring partnerships across the Northwest Territories, while Dr. Chris Lemieux discussed conservation policy, protected areas, biodiversity, and climate adaptation research. The discussions emphasized the importance of community and Indigenous partnerships in shaping environmental monitoring and conservation research in Canada. The visit also provided an opportunity to explore future collaborations and strengthen connections between Laurier researchers, CRRC members, and federal conservation priorities.