The Québec Water Collective emerged from the Participatory Water Science Forum in November 2022. During this event, around sixty participants from various backgrounds gathered. Together, they defined a vision of what participatory science should be in Québec. After discussing the strengths, weaknesses and challenges of participatory science, these two days of discussions and exchanges concluded with the development of an action plan which will be implemented in the coming years. 

For all the details and documents from the Participatory Water Science Forum, click here. 

The Collective’s mission is to mobilize the knowledge of participatory water science stakeholders in Québec and encourage their commitment, in an innovative and inclusive way, by offering members of the Collective opportunities to network, learn and work together.  

For more details on the values, objectives, and action plan of the Collective, please see this presentation document.  

The Collective’s vision is a participatory science network for water health, recognized for the sustainable commitment of communities, the diversity of actors as well as for scientific and traditional knowledge sharing. 

Inclusive vision

Every member follow the same direction toward a common goal.

Engagement

All the players in citizen water science in Quebec are sustainably committed to keeping water healthy.

Durability

Through funding and resources development strategies, working towards the long-term continuity of the Collective and its actions.

Data credibility

Getting the practice of citizen science recognized, as well as the acceptance of the data gathered by its participants.

Knowledge sharing

Set up solutions for data inventory, knowledge sharing, and considering citizen science in political and public decision-making related to water conservation.

For more details on the values, objectives, and action plan of the Collective, please see this presentation document.  

The organizational and functional structure of the Collective is made up of a strategic committee, a scientific committee, members, and the coordination team.

• The strategic committee ensures smooth operations and guides strategic decisions.
• The scientific committee mainly acts as an expert panel on the scientific credibility of the participatory approach to water health.
• The Water Education and Eco-Monitoring Group (G3E) handles the overall coordination of the Collective.
• Members help advance citizen science in water in Quebec by getting involved in developing activities that meet their needs.

These different structures are supported by:

• Practice committees that make it easier to share experiences and know-how among members.
• Working groups that help carry out a project or specific action contributing to the Collective’s strategic vision.