Strengthening Canada's Freshwater Future: Government of Canada Appoints New President of the Canada Water Agency

News release

March 7, 2025 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

The Government of Canada today announced the appointment of Mark Fisher as the President of the new Canada Water Agency, reporting to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

Fresh water is essential to the well-being of Canadians, the health and sustainability of the environment, and the economy. Mr. Fisher will lead the Agency in pursuing its mandate by:

improving freshwater management across federal departments and agencies by fostering a whole-of-government approach to freshwater protection and stewardship,
building partnerships, enhancing trust, and advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit partners,
advancing meaningful and respectful collaboration with provinces and territories, municipalities, non-governmental and private sector partners, as well as binationally, and
advancing science, monitoring, and the application of Indigenous knowledge to support decision-making and effective action.

Strong partnerships are key to protecting fresh water across Canada. Mr. Fisher brings extensive experience in addressing national, regional, and Canada-United States freshwater management and stewardship challenges, having served as the President and CEO of the Council of the Great Lakes Region since 2014.

In addition, his extensive experience in engaging with diverse stakeholders and forming multi-sector collaborations to address key socioeconomic and environmental challenges will be a major asset to the Government of Canada, as the Canada Water Agency works to ensure that Canada’s fresh water is safe, clean and well-managed for today and future generations.

Quotes

“The Canada Water Agency is at the forefront of strengthening our country’s freshwater resilience and sustainability. With Mr. Fisher at the helm, we are confident that the Agency will continue to make meaningful progress in ensuring clean and sustainable water for all Canadians.

The Government of Canada also wishes to extend its sincere gratitude to Daniel Wolfish for his leadership as Interim President. His efforts were crucial in the establishment of the Agency, its successful launch, and the early implementation of its strategic priorities.”
– The Honorable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of the Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for the Canada Water Agency

Quick facts

The Canada Water Agency was established in October 2024.
In Budget 2023, the Government of Canada provided $650 million over ten years for the Freshwater Ecosystem Initiatives, as well as $85.1 million over five years (and $21 million ongoing thereafter) for the creation of the Canada Water Agency.
The Canada Water Agency is headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, reflecting the region’s significant freshwater resources and central role in national water management efforts.