On World Water Day, we join communities around the world in recognizing the essential role water plays in our health, environment, and daily lives. Clean, safe drinking water is vital and protecting it is a shared responsibility.
The CRD provides drinking water to more than 430,000 people across the region, supporting homes, businesses, public services, and fire protection. Safeguarding this essential resource requires careful planning, strong stewardship, and long-term investment.
Through the Regional Water Supply Strategic Plan [PDF/2.5MB], the CRD is taking a proactive, forward-looking approach to water management, guiding how services are delivered while remaining flexible and responsive to climate change and evolving water demand.
One of the most important ways the CRD protects drinking water is by safeguarding the water supply area. Greater Victoria’s primary water supply comes from the Sooke Lake Watershed, with additional supply from the Goldstream Watershed and future supply planned from the Leech Watershed. The CRD owns approximately 98 per cent of the lands surrounding these watersheds, helping protect water quality at the source.
The CRD also recognizes that these watersheds lie within the traditional territories of many First Nations. Protecting drinking water includes working collaboratively with First Nations to support stewardship, share knowledge, and respect Indigenous connections to land and water through meaningful, government-to-government relationships.
How You Can Help on World Water Day and Every Day
Individual actions make a difference. When thousands of households take small steps to conserve water, the collective impact is significant. Simple ways you can help include:
- Using water efficient fixtures and appliances
- Fixing household leaks as soon as they’re noticed
- Watering lawns and gardens responsibly, especially during dry months
- Choosing drought tolerant plants and landscaping
- Being mindful of indoor water use, such as taking shorter showers and running full laundry loads
These everyday choices help protect a shared resource and strengthen our region’s resilience.
By working together through smart planning, responsible water use, and ongoing stewardship, we can ensure Greater Victoria continues to enjoy a safe, reliable drinking water supply for generations to come.
If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate World Water Day, register for one of our FREE Water Supply Area Tours. Online registration is now open for May and June tours. For more information, please visit www.crd.ca/watertours
