The Government of Canada has announced the appointment of Mark Fisher as the President of the newly established Canada Water Agency. Reporting to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Mr. Fisher will lead the agency in strengthening the country’s freshwater management and stewardship.
The Canada Water Agency aims to enhance freshwater protection by fostering collaboration across federal departments, provinces, territories, Indigenous partners, and private sector stakeholders. Mr. Fisher’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing science-based policies, monitoring initiatives, and integrating Indigenous knowledge into decision-making processes.
Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault expressed confidence in Mr. Fisher’s ability to lead the agency effectively. “The Canada Water Agency is at the forefront of strengthening our country’s freshwater resilience and sustainability. With Mr. Fisher at the helm, we are confident that the Agency will continue to make meaningful progress in ensuring clean and sustainable water for all Canadians.”
Mark Fisher brings significant experience in freshwater management, having served as the President and CEO of the Council of the Great Lakes Region (CGLR) since 2014. Under his leadership, CGLR became a recognized regional leader in areas such as cross-border trade, border management, and Great Lakes protection. His expertise in engaging stakeholders and fostering multi-sector partnerships will be invaluable in addressing Canada’s freshwater challenges, including binational cooperation with the United States.
The federal government also acknowledged the contributions of Daniel Wolfish, who served as Interim President during the agency’s establishment. “The Government of Canada also wishes to extend its sincere gratitude to Daniel Wolfish for his leadership as Interim President. His efforts were crucial in the establishment of the Agency, its successful launch, and the early implementation of its strategic priorities.”
Established in October 2024, the Canada Water Agency is headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, a region known for its vital freshwater resources. Budget 2023 allocated $650 million over ten years for Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives, alongside $85.1 million over five years to support the agency’s creation, ensuring long-term freshwater sustainability across Canada.
