The IWRG is in its third research phase in the Nechako River Basin. This new two-year research program is made possible through a substantial $400,000 grant from the Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund Society (NEEF), complemented by an equivalent contribution from additional sources, including the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). This phase marks a significant milestone for the group, building upon the foundation of nine years of prior research in the region. During the preceding research phases, the team explored critical aspects affecting the Nechako watershed, including climate-related disturbances and water security, sediment sources and dynamics, and the development of tools to facilitate comprehensive understanding and informed decision-making. In this phase, Dr. Eduardo Martins brings freshwater ecosystem knowledge to the group for a more thorough understanding of fish adaptation to environmental changes. 

The project is actively in development and has a timeline of action between July 2023 to July 2025.

The proposed research for this program is divided into the following research themes: 

Theme 1: Network of  Experimental Watersheds for Integrated Research led by Professors Stephen Dery (UNBC) and Siraj UI Islam (UNBC).

Theme 2: Landscape Disturbances on Sediment and Contaminant Fluxes led by Professors Phil Owens (UNBC) and Faran Ali (UNBC).

Theme 3: Fish Responses to Environmental Change led by Professors Eduardo Martins (UNBC) and Scott Hinch (UBC).

Theme 4: Co-benefits for Climate, Catchments (Watersheds) and Communities led by Professors Margot Parkes and Flor (June) Garcia-Becerra.