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Water Science & Data

Last updated on May 23, 2019

Water is essential for drinking, power generation, household use, industry and recreation. In order to understand how much water we have and how to keep our water resources healthy, scientific data are needed. This information is important to help us better understand and manage our water resources for future generations.

Water Data and Tools

Use the mapping tools to find regional information about water, climate and the environment. Find information about water use and water rights in different regions of B.C., and keep track surface water quantity, groundwater quantity and snow data in real time. You can also create your own maps of water bodies and other spatial data.

Water Quality

Human activities and natural disturbance can affect water quality, putting human health, aquatic life, wildlife, livestock and plants at risk. The aesthetic and recreational value of our water resources can also be compromised through reduced water quality. The Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Health work together to ensure safe water for all uses.

Water Science Report

Water Science Series: a technical publication focusing on scientific reports that relate to the understanding and management of B.C.'s water resources.  The series communicates scientific knowledge gained through water science programs across the B.C. government, as well as scientific partners working in collaboration with provincial staff.

Ecological Reports Catalogue (EcoCat): a catalogue containing reports from a variety of disciplines, including aquatic species and habitats, terrestrial species and habitats, floodplain mapping, reservoirs, ground water and vegetation. EcoCat provides access to digital reports and publications, and their associated files such as maps, datasets, and published inventory information.

Confluence: Journal of Watershed Science and Management: an open access science journal that aims to increase knowledge and awareness of watershed science and how it applies to management throughout the Pacific Northwest. Confluence is intended not only for the scientific community and water professionals, but for resource managers, government staff, stewardship groups, and other interested individuals.

Standards, Guidelines and Manuals

In B.C., standards and guidelines are set for collecting, storing, analyzing, interpreting and reporting data that are required to complete an application for a water licence, approval or other authorization.

The British Columbia Field Sampling Manual outlines procedures, protocols and equipment needed for continuous monitoring and collection of air, air-emission, water, wastewater, soil, sediment and biological samples.

CLIR searches multiple sources of environmental and natural resource information through a single search window.

The J.T. Fyles Natural Resources Library provides information about natural resources to government employees and the public.