- Watershed Management Plan implementation.
The keystone of the association, the Plan will continue to receive focused attention to move forward its recommendations. The gaps identified in 2004 will be followed up, and the third annual review meeting held with stakeholders. The Plan’s recommendations will be reviewed and updated if necessary to reflect recent developments and priorities, eg. source water protection; sub-watershed plans.
- Stewardship, education and public activities.
FoTW will extend public awareness of the watershed and involve surrounding communities, schools, clubs, NGOs and other organizations in programs and activities that will increase a broader sense of stewardship. There is need for this increased awareness at all levels of the community - public, school and official levels. Ideas for carrying this out include completion of the Tay Tabloid, more media articles and a possible river-related event.
- Celebrate the Tay
There is a need to increase public awareness of the many economic and social benefits of the watershed and its water resources, as well as the opportunities offered – including recreation – by the Tay River, Canal, and the watershed lakes. The planned activities will include assistance in promoting development of the Tay Trail and Corridor, continuation of the ‘Canoe the Tay’ pamphlet, cooperation in producing a photographic record of the water bodies (including Tay mills), promotion of expanded use of public wetlands, and participation in the Rideau Canal 175th anniversary celebrations.
- Municipal liaison
Local municipalities have responsibility for many areas that impact on the watershed. There is need to maintain contact with and input to water-related questions, to provide support, assistance and education as need arises, eg. Perth water quality.
- Networking with other organizations with an interest in the watershed.
To accomplish the association’s goals, there is need to maintain and expand cooperation with other organizations with similar interests, including NGOs, associations, government agencies, etc., through information and membership exchange, participation at meetings, etc. FoTW will also expand its information base for official contacts with key government agencies, ministries, and other organizations.
- Association administration and management
Ongoing management, administration and financial activities are necessary to maintain and build the association. Activities in support of these will continue to include promotion of memberships, fund-raising, pursuit of grants – directly and in support of other organisations’ initiatives – and the sourcing of the skills needed to carry these out.
