Heritage Designation for the Ottawa River
Canada honours and respects its leading rivers by distinguishing them as Canadian Heritage Rivers. Having outstanding natural and/or cultural values, and offering quality recreational opportunities, these rivers showcase the benefits and enjoyment of healthy river environments, now and in the future. Rivers in the Canadian Heritage Rivers System must have their heritage values and integrity protected.
Currently there is a group of individuals actively pursuing Heritage Designation for the Ottawa River. The Ottawa River Heritage Designation Committee is guiding communities along the Ottawa River on a journey of discovery as it compiles information on the natural, cultural and recreational values of this famous watershed. To learn more about this initiative, please visit the committee’s website.
Ottawa Riverkeeper supports the designation of the Ottawa River as a Heritage River, however, we feel that we cannot rely on such a title to provide adequate protection or conservation for the river. The designation is a stepping-stone that will communicate the richness and significance of the Ottawa River and bring people together to think about a management strategy for the river.
You can read Ottawa Riverkeeper’s support letter to the Ottawa River Heritage Designation Committee here:
Heritage Rivers in the Ottawa Watershed
Currently two tributaries of the Ottawa River have received Canadian Heritage River Status: