Fresh water is part of our identity as outdoor recreationists and Canadians, and MEC wants to encourage everyone to speak up for healthy water across the country. MEC is launching a multi-year fresh water conservation project called Homewaters to communicate the importance of fresh water not only for pristine recreational experiences, but also its importance in supporting healthy ecosystems.

Their hope is that the whole outdoor industry can support the protection of Canada’s fresh water together. This movement comes at a critical time, when Canada’s federal government has systematically weakened laws protecting our water.

1024px-Elbow_Falls_(Alberta,_Canada)_Kayaker_20070728 (1) — Elbow Falls, Kananaskis, Alberta.

The 2014 portion of the MEC project will run to mid-October and will feature a website encouraging people to get involved with one of eight local fresh water non-profits to help preserve their homewaters (see below).

Homewaters is part of MEC’s commitment to 1% for the Planet—every year, MEC contributes one percent of sales (nearly $3.1 million in 2013) to Canadian non-profit organizations. By conserving Canada’s ecologically and recreationally important urban spaces and awe-inspiring wild places, MEC lives their commitment to inspire and enable everyone to enjoy active outdoor lifestyles.

#MYHOMEWATERS