Community of practice for environmental water managers
Project details
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Objective: |
To create the opportunity for interested environmental water managers to meet and discuss common issues and explore a range of mechanisms for ongoing engagement. |
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Funding: |
Up to $430,000 plus applicable GST from the Australian Government towards cost associated with supporting the work program. Total value of the project is up to $430,000. |
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Jurisdiction: |
National |
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Commenced: |
April 2009 |
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Completion: |
April 2011 |
About the project
Many environmental water managers work in isolation with few, if any, opportunities to transfer knowledge and share experiences. This is likely to result in frequent "reinventing the wheel" solutions rather than building on others' experiences. The project will address this issue.
The project had two main components:
- an initial two-day forum where interested environmental water managers met to discuss common issues and explore a range of mechanisms for ongoing engagement
- provision of a facilitator and resources for meetings and travel for at least an establishment period of three years to pursue the recommendations arising from the conference.
Project benefits
- Opportunities for engagement, sharing of experiences, and learning,
- Support more effective and efficient environmental water management
Project outcomes
- Establishment of a recognised entity through which environmental water managers can participate which will respond to their needs
- Implementation of a web platform through which environmental water managers can collaborate and share knowledge
- Emergence of environmental water manager leaders and enhanced contribution to an emerging discipline
- Clear evidence face-to-face meetings were of significant benefit for creating engagement
On 1 July 2011 the Community of Practice for Environmental Water Managers transitioned to the Environmental Water Managers Specialist Network (EWM SN) of the Australian Water Association. The EWM SN will provide a long term sustainable platform, where the members can:
- be part of a professionally recognised group working in environmental water management
- learn from others and share experiences
- have opportunities to network and build contacts with like minded professionals
- receive and contribute to regular e-bulletins and an interactive website
- propose and participate in professional development activities relevant to their practice
The new arrangements are supported by National Water Commission funding of up to $22,000 (plus applicable GST) to:
- subsidise membership to the EWM SN until 30 June 2011
- support activities which are likely to encourage more active participation by members including regional meetings.