WORLD WATER DAY PROMOTES UNDERSTANDING OF A PRECIOUS RESOURCE

Only 2.5 per cent of all the water on Earth is freshwater to be shared amongst a population of seven billion people.  Ensuring that all play their part in protecting this precious resource, SaskWater is creating a wave of awareness of water conservation practices and encouraging participation in World Water Day activities in each community.

World Water Day is held annually on March 22 to bring attention to the importance of freshwater and sustainable management of freshwater resources.  Each year, World Water Day highlights a specific aspect of freshwater.  The United Nations (UN) has declared 2013 the International Year of Water Co-operation.
         
“Co-operation is an ideal theme for 2013,” Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Water Corporation Ken Cheveldayoff said.  “Saskatchewan’s economy is thriving, our communities are growing and water infrastructure needs are a timely topic.  Co-operation between residents, communities, industries and governments will ensure that our province continues to prosper while protecting the invaluable natural resource that is freshwater.

“We have reliable access to quality water in Saskatchewan and SaskWater does an excellent job promoting water conservation here at home.  World Water Day is a reminder of the importance of issues that affect this precious resource – not only in Saskatchewan, but around the globe.”
    
The UN points out that there are many opportunities for cooperation around water to find a balance between conflicting interests and sharing the resource.  The uneven geographical distribution of water, rapid urbanization, population growth, pollution and climate change make good water management a uniquely challenging task.

Individuals, groups and communities across the province are encouraged to get involved by organizing or participating in fun and educational events.  Together, residents can raise awareness of the importance of water accessibility and promote understanding and co-operation around this valuable resource.

For more information, ideas for getting involved, tips on conserving water and links to other World Water Day websites, please visit SaskWater at www.saskwater.com/conservation.

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For more information, contact:

Gayle Zimmerman
SaskWater
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-3729
Email: gayle.zimmerman@saskwater.com
Cell: 306-631-4930

Dan Wall
SaskWater
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-3766
Email: dan.wall@saskwater.com
Cell: 306-690-8058