Introduction

The Winnipeg Student and Young Professionals chapter started in September 2005 with a networking event that was attended by approximately 35 students and 15 professionals from the water resources field in Manitoba. Since this event we’ve had several meetings to get the chapter up and running. We will be organizing monthly speaking events at the University of Manitoba starting in January, and will hopefully begin a mentoring program in January as well. Students from the chapter will be paired off with professional members of the CWRA to help get a better understanding of the ‘real world’ of water resources in Manitoba. Springtime will hopefully bring the opportunity for a couple fun events such as canoeing the Seine River and a trip to Oak Hammock Marsh. We are also planning to send two students to the national CWRA conference in Toronto.

The Canadian Water Resources Association (CWRA) is a national organization of individuals and organizations interested in the management of Canada's water resources. The membership is composed of private and public sector water resource professionals including managers, administrators, scientists, academics, students and users. CWRA has branch organizations in eight provinces and members throughout Canada and beyond.

The Canadian Water Resources Association has it roots in the Western Canada Reclamation Association (WCRA) established in 1947. The WCRA was formed to promote the development, control, conservation, preservation and utilization of the water resources of Western Canada.

Around 1966, the WCRA added "Conservation" to its name reflecting the broadening of its objectives. It became a national organization in 1968 and the name was changed to the Canadian Water Resources Association.

CWRA's Vision:

Water Resources are Managed with a Commitment to Environmental, Economic and Social Sustainability.

CWRA Objectives

* To stimulate awareness and understanding of Canada's water resources
* To encourage recognition of the high priority and value of water
* To provide a forum for the exchange of information and opinion relating to the management of Canada's water
* To participate with appropriate agencies in international water management activities