Freshwater stewardship is critical for Canada's environment, economy and people, and it begins at the local level.  Investing in partner-led projects for environmental protection, restoration, and conservation bolsters Canada's economy and helps ensure the sustainability of fresh water for current and future generations.

On November 14, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency, announced the launch of several calls for applications for upcoming funding opportunities. 

Five of these calls for applications are through Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives being implemented through Canada's Freshwater Action Plan. They support regionally specific actions to restore and protect water quality and ecosystem health in the following waterbodies of national significance: 

1. the St. Lawrence River 
2. the Great Lakes 
3. the Fraser River
4. the Wolastoq/Saint John River 
5. Lake Winnipeg 

Another two calls for applications are through the EcoAction program, which supports freshwater sustainability efforts across Canada.

Funded projects will support partner-led and community-based projects to improve water quality, restore aquatic habitats, engage Indigenous people, and strengthen capacity for sustainable freshwater management across Canada.

The calls for applications will open in November and December 2025, with deadlines in December 2025 and January 2026.

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