Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in Ontario. Formed in 1968, MVCA’s mandate is to manage the watershed’s resources in partnership with our eleven member municipalities and the Province of Ontario. With more than 250 lakes and wetlands, the Mississippi River watershed encompasses an area of 3,750 km² from its headwaters at Mazinaw Lake to its confluence at the Ottawa River. Together with the drainage areas of the Carp River, MVCA has a total jurisdiction of 4353 km². Protecting the needs of landowners and the environment by using an Integrated Approach to Watershed Management, MVCA works to keep your drinking water, local ecosystems, and your property safe. Let us help you reconnect with the natural environment by visiting locally significant areas, taking up stewardship practices at home or by monitoring your water quality.