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Kent County chapter highlights forestry and watersheds to mark World Water Day

The Council of Canadians Kent County chapter marked World Water Day with an event drawing attention to the interconnectedness between forests and watersheds.


Their media release noted, “On March 29th, the Kent chapter will host an evening of discovery, knowledge-sharing, and discussion about the relationship between water and forestry management at Bonar Law High School in Rexton. Doors open at 6:30 pm for viewing of displays from the Richibucto Watershed Association, Elsipogtog’s Kopit Lodge, and local photographers’ beautiful nature photos of our area.”


Their media release then adds, “At 7:00 pm, presentations begin with drumming and a Water Song from Kopit Lodge water protector, Lorraine Clair. Scientist Frank Johnston, a member of the Conservation Council of New Brunswick’s Board of Directors, will give a presentation regarding clearcuts. From the Restigouche River Watershed Management Council, David LeBlanc or his colleague Carole-Anne Gillis, will speak about the impacts of our forestry practices on watersheds.”


Chapter activist Debbie Hopper highlights, “In recent years, residents of Kent County united to protect our water against the irreversible damage caused by shale gas fracking. We remain vigilant on that issue, but we are also taking aim at the harm done to our water by clearcutting and the use of chemicals such as glyphosate-based herbicides. Frank Johnston’s shocking aerial photographs provide a clear depiction of our shrinking forests. Current provincial policies harm streams and rivers within the forests in a multitude of ways. Everything depends on the water.”


In her book Boiling Point: Government Neglect, Corporate Abuse, and Canada’s Water Crisis, Council of Canadians chairperson Maude Barlow writes, “If we continue to destroy and endanger Canada’s forests and wetlands, the burden on our already stressed waterways will grow. Protecting forests means also protecting wetlands, and all levels of government, First Nations and communities must work together to protect, restore and rejuvenate the damaged forests and wetlands of Canada.”


Twenty-eight chapters participated in World Water Day actions this year. Those actions included: a cross-border rally, presenting to municipal councils to become a blue community, film screenings, organizing a provincial all-candidates meeting on water, taking a group-selfie in front of a local river, holding public forums, tabling, holding discussions, organizing a tap water versus bottled water taste test, and more.


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