Bear Brook Watershed Study
The Bear Brook Watershed faces challenges related to urban expansion, agricultural intensification and a changing climate. The City recognizes these pressures and we are working in partnership with South Nation Conservation to complete a comprehensive, multi-year study to plan for the future of this important area.
Healthy watersheds support biodiversity, reduce flooding and erosion risks, provide clean water, and help communities adapt to climate change. The Bear Brook Watershed covers 488 square kilometres of urban areas, farmland, forests and wetlands in Ottawa and Prescott-Russell. This study will identify actions to protect watershed health while supporting sustainable growth.
What is a watershed study?
A watershed study is a science-based plan that looks at how land, water and communities interact within a watershed. It combines technical research with local knowledge to set shared priorities for protection, restoration and sustainable management.
The Bear Brook Watershed Study will:
- Assess current watershed conditions
- Examine how future land use and climate change may affect natural systems
- Recommend actions and policies to keep the watershed healthy for future generations
Where can I find more information?
- South Nation Conservation has prepared a digital Bear Brook Watershed Study story map
- A full suite of Watershed Plan Reports, including the Characterization Report describing current watershed conditions, is available on South Nation Conservation’s website
Get involved
Community input is central to the watershed study. Residents, landowners and partners are invited to participate at key milestones.
You can submit your feedback on this project through the survey below. You can attend a Public Information Centre to learn more about the study and ask questions of the study team. Event details are provided below.
Feedback collected from the community will help shape recommendations for stewardship, monitoring and restoration in the Bear Brook Watershed. A summary of public input will be shared.
