Mission Statement
The Alberta Whitewater Association (AWA), a non-profit society, is the provincial sport governing organization for Alberta that promotes, strengthens, and builds canoe and kayak paddling as both a recreational and competitive activity. AWA achieves this by providing:

-       educational, training and certification programs
-       encouragement and support to leaders, paddlers, coaches, officials, and volunteers
-       support to whitewater competitive sport disciplines of Slalom, Downriver, Canoe Polo, and Freestyle paddling
-       environmental advocacy for whitewater rivers, development of whitewater facilities, and access to rivers
-       recreational paddling, festivals and events
-       support for the development and growth of member clubs


As a Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) the Alberta Whitewater Association has an interest in making sure that club facilities exist and rivers are accessible by members across the province. The AWA as a PSO has information and leverage, that clubs can use when planning infrastructure and access in their region.

AWA has a long history of supporting facilities around the province. The big builds include; the original Kananaskis, built in the 80s (maintained and rebuilt several times); Boulder Run in '91 (rebuilt in 2018); and more recently Harvie Passage 2011/2018. In addition smaller projects have been undertaken by clubs with support from AWA. Edmonton's Rundle Park, various Alberta Summer Games sites, and river access points. Previous projects that have been floated include a whitewater park in Edmonton, Winsport, & Chestermere.

Based on feedback from the memberships survey, which listed facilities and access as top priorities for our members, the AWA is now looking at what projects it will drive, co-lead, and support in coming years. We would love to hear what you and your club's priorities are, and how we can help.