A new perspective on Edmonton's river

For over 15 years, EPCOR and RiverWatch have helped Edmontonians connect with the North Saskatchewan River. Through hands-on science, guided floats, and unforgettable experiences, thousands of students and community members are learning just how vital our river is—and how we all play a role in protecting it.

Programs like RiverWatch remind us that the river is more than a backdrop to our beautiful city. It’s a vital part of our story—past, present, and future. When people understand our connection to the river, they’re more likely to care for it.

RiverWatch provides an opportunity to go out onto the North Saskatchewan and learn more about its significance to our community. From families on an EcoFloat seeing the city from a new perspective to students pulling a sample of river water and run tests while they learn the science behind a healthy watershed, RiverWatch connects Edmontonians to the water.

Long before the EcoFloat, our relationship with RiverWatch began with a shared belief: that hands-on learning is one of the best ways to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

That’s why we’ve supported the RiverWatch School Program for more than 15 years. Each spring, thousands of Grade 8 students take to the river on a science float to conduct water tests, learn about wastewater treatment, and see firsthand how science and stewardship go hand in hand.

In 2024 alone, the School Program reached 4,600 students from 68 different schools, and the program has continued to grow. 

The popularity of the EcoFloat program shows just how much Edmontonians value their connection to the river! In 2021 we started our sponsorship of the EcoFloat program to inspire environmental stewardship through hands-on learning for the public. Growing demand led us to expand our sponsorship in 2023, inviting Edmontonians to explore the river on evenings and weekends from May through October.

Each season, over 1,700 Edmontonians take to the river for an EcoFloat. Rafters enjoy a unique blend of city history, environmental education, and river science—all from the comfort of a bright blue raft.

At EPCOR, we understand that the water flowing through our taps—and back into the river—connects us all. That’s why we’re committed to supporting programs that help people see this connection firsthand.

Whether it’s students testing water quality before and after the Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant, or families learning about the river’s role in our city’s story, RiverWatch helps deepen understanding and spark curiosity.

“Protecting our water source for the future is a responsibility we all share”, says Jillian Baird, Sr. Manager, Operational Communications at EPCOR. “Programs like RiverWatch help make that responsibility real for people—especially young people—by showing them how the system works and how they can be part of it.”

Together, EPCOR and RiverWatch are doing more than teaching science—we’re building pride in our watershed, inspiring future environmental leaders, and reminding Edmontonians that the river running through our city is something worth protecting.