We are thrilled to share the Watershed Security Fund (WSF)’s Annual Report 2025-2026. The report highlights key milestones and outcomes from our third year of co-developing the WSF.
“We recognize that climate change–driven events, such as extreme flooding in the Fraser Valley and persistent droughts in northeastern BC, are placing significant strains on communities. While the growing list of emergencies requiring attention is daunting, the resiliency stories we hear from funded projects motivate us to remain focused […] We will continue to strengthen our commitments to watersheds and bring together the voices, values, and visions of many as we strive for the health of our ecosystems and the well-being of future generations.” – Stu Barnes and Mark Gifford
Over the past year, the First Nations Water Caucus, the First Nations Fisheries Council, and the Real Estate Foundation of BC have made significant progress as interim stewards for the WSF, advancing watershed security through collaboration, openness, shared learning, and respect. That progress is reflected in our commitments to co-development and co-governance and collective efforts to support initiatives that directly respond to community needs and priorities.
Key Milestones & Deliverables 2025-2026
- Formed two new working groups: the Co-Development Working Group, and the Growing the Fund Working Group.
- Confirmed the creation of a Multi-Interest Advisory Table and initial membership. The Multi-Interest Advisory Table is intended to reflect diverse interests such as First Nations, environmental non-governmental organizations, agriculture, and industry.
- In September 2025, hosted a reception in conjunction with UBCM that brought a diverse group of individuals together including partners, First Nations leaders and communities, government representatives, grantees, and funders.
- Developed a storytelling approach to inspire and engage diverse audiences, demonstrate need and impact, and lift up the value of partnerships and collaboration. This included partnering with Woven Cedar Films, an Indigenous-owned film company, to create WSF project videos.
- 28 projects totalling $6,999,960 in grants were announced in April 2025 for Grants Intake 2.
- 26 projects totalling $5,998,000 in grants were announced in March 2026 for Grants Intake 3.
- Secured a $1M contribution from The Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation to support WSF Intake 3 grants. This contribution increased the Intake 3 grants budget from $5M to $6M.
- Met with federal representatives in Ottawa to build relationships, increase understanding of the WSF and make a case for federal investment to the WSF.
Access our 2025/2026 Annual Report below for more highlights and outcomes.
Downloads
