First a military system and a commercial transportation route, recreational boating is today the major use of the extensive Rideau and Trent-Severn Waterway systems. Since 1972, these canals have been managed by Parks Canada in the context of the Canada - Ontario - Rideau - Trent-Severn Agreement (C.O.R.T.S.). In fact, Parks Canada#x2019;s responsibilities extend throughout adjacent reservoir lakes totalling over 150,000 hectares and integrate programs involving: the maintenance of navigation channels; water level control; development of support facilities for boater recreation but also for land based users; the physical maintenance of the control structures and locks; natural, cultural and historical resources conservation and interpretation; and enhancement of general recreational environment.A variety of other federal, provincial and municipal agencies play a role in the management of these waterways. Water uses also include hydro-electric power generation, irrigation for agriculture, water supply for domestic or industrial purposes, and resource harvesting. Together, supported by research and monitoring, these multiple uses constitutes a practical example of managing a reservoir ecosystem.
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