photo of the bow river in the mountains

Water Research

Research themes

Water and Climate

Water and Climate focuses on how a changing climate is affecting the availability, timing, and movement of water. By improving our ability to understand and anticipate droughts, floods, changing snow and ice, and other shifts in the water cycle, this theme helps communities and decision-makers prepare for a less predictable water future.

Co-led by Drs. Erin Nicholls, PhD, and Alain Pietroniro, PhD

Water and Health

Water and Health examines the condition of lakes, rivers, wetlands, and other aquatic ecosystems, and why their health matters for people and communities. The theme looks at how environmental change, pollution, and human activity affect water quality and ecosystem function, with the goal of supporting healthier freshwater systems and reducing risks to both ecological and human well-being.

Co-led by Drs. Karin Orsel, PhD, and Frederick Wrona, PhD

Water and People

Water and People explores the relationships between water, communities, governance, and ways of knowing. With a strong emphasis on Indigenous leadership and community priorities, this theme supports approaches to water research and decision-making that are locally grounded, respectful, and better able to strengthen resilience over the long term.

Led by Dr. Deborah McGregor, PhD.

Research facilities

At four research stations across Western Canada, UCalgary hosts water researchers from around the world alongside our own world-class scholars. 

Kananaskis Centre

This research station provides a platform for studying watershed processes and ecological responses to environmental change, with applications that extend to mountain regions worldwide.

Learn more

Advancing Canadian Water Assets (ACWA)

ACWA is a state-of-the-art research facility focused on water management and wastewater treatment innovations. The facility enables researchers to test and develop technologies that address the complexities of modern water challenges.

Learn more

Kluane Lake Research Station

The Kluane Lake Station, part of the Arctic Institute of North America supports field-based research on mountain hydrology and climate impacts, offering unique insights into the dynamics of Northern water systems.

Learn more

Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre

Located on the west coast, this center facilitates marine and coastal research. It serves as a collaborative space for understanding oceanic water systems and their role in sustaining ecological and human communities.

Learn more