Selkirk Mayor Larry Johannson was appointed in 2024 to the International Red River Watershed Board for a three-year term.
For the mayor and lifelong Selkirk resident, it’s an appointment that is deeply meaningful to him.
“I’ve lived next to the Red River my entire life, as has my family and countless others here in Selkirk. We know the importance of the Red River and the power of it as well,” Johannson said.
“We also know that it doesn’t only affect our city, the Red River and its watershed impact two countries, our province and three states south of the border. It’s a vast area and managing the watershed in a cooperative way with our American neighbours is crucial. I’m honoured and humbled to be appointed to the Red River Watershed Board.”
The appointment not only aligns with Mayor Johannson himself, but with Selkirk’s Strategic Plan, Priority 5, Environmental Stewardship, as well which calls for the city to protect natural features and resources that are important to the community.
One of the most important bilateral agreements between Canada and the United States
Johannson was appointed by the Commissioners of the International Joint Commission (IJC). The Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909 established the IJC, to investigate, resolve and prevent boundary water disputes between the two countries and is considered to be one of the most important bilateral agreements between Canada and the United States.
The IJC has been involved in the Red River Basin for many years and has established many boards to work on issues related to the engineering of flooding and dyking solutions, causes of pollution and a task force created following the 1997 flooding of the Red River in both Canada and the United States.
The International Red River Watershed Board was established in 2021, following a pilot project that began in 2005. Watershed boards monitor water quality, water quantity and aquatic health using an integrative, ecosystem approach. The International Red River Watershed Board is one of three IJC international watershed boards including the International St. Croix River Watershed Board and the International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board.
“Watershed boards reflect the fact that water quality and quantity problems in a basin don’t stop at the international border
Mayor Larry Johannson
“Watershed boards reflect the fact that water quality and quantity problems in a basin don’t stop at the international border; they require an integrated approach if they are to be resolved. The International Red River Watershed Board is well-positioned to do just that,” said IJC Canadian Co-Chair Pierre Béland following the board’s designation.
The Red River Watershed Board’s duties include monitoring water quality at the international crossing, reporting and advising on flood mitigation activities, and investigating ecosystem and aquatic habitat issues.
“The Watershed Board does important work that impacts the habitat and people of two countries and over the years the cooperation that has existed has proven to be beneficial to both,” Johannson said.
