Purpose and Aims

The Institute's Purpose

• To advance aquatic sciences research and provide education on the structure and function of fresh water and estuarine ecosystems, improving planning and management to promote sustainable use of water resources.

And to do so as: 

• A multi-disciplinary centre of excellence for advancing river, estuarine and watershed sciences and promoting healthy waterways.
• The institution of choice for world class education in aquatic sciences, creating a new generation of informed and engaged professionals.

The Institute's Aims

• Develop and provide applicable science tools and information.
• Expand laboratory and field-based research and education opportunities for students and professionals.
• Provide leadership in the development of new standards and community of practice in environmental assessments, protection and restoration.
• Promote and improve integrated management as an effective vehicle for planning.
• Raise the profile and quality of research on rivers, estuaries and watersheds in Canada.
• Increase the Institute's and Canada's participation in international research on the world's rivers, estuaries and watersheds.
• Increase the effectiveness of research to address the immediacy of critical water issues.