Abstract:
Knowledge of how water is perceived, used and managed in a community is critical to
the endeavour of water governance. Surveys of individuals residing in a community offer
a valuable avenue to gain information about several of these aspects of water. This paper
draws upon experiences in three First Nation communities to explore the values of
surveys to illuminate water issues and inform water decision-making. Findings from
experiences with surveys in Six Nations of the Grand River, Mississaugas of the New
Credit, and Oneida First Nation of the Thames reveal rich information about how surveys
can provide insights about: the connection of individuals to the land, water and their
community; reasons for valuing water; perceptions of water quality and issues
surrounding water-related advisories; and, degree of satisfaction with water management
and governance at different scales. Community partners reflected upon the findings of the
survey for their community. Dialogue was then broadened across the cases as the partners
offer benefits and challenges associated with the survey. Community surveys offer an
important tool in the resource managers’ toolbox to understand social perceptions of
water and provide valuable insights that may assist in improving its governance.
