The book traces the environmental consequences of over a century and a half of social, economic and legal arrangements through which Canada and the U.S. have managed — and mismanaged — the Lake of the Woods and Rainy Lake watershed. As a drainage basin that carries water across political boundaries from northwestern Ontario and northern Minnesota into Lake Winnipeg and to the Hudson Bay, this natural watershed highlights the complexities of transboundary relationships.
In its announcement of the award, the OHS said the following of the book: “This is no simple story. The work is important for its use of historical method to appreciate how political boundaries and water bodies shape us and are shaped by us.”
Upon accepting the award, Professor Benidickson said the following: “I am very appreciative of the honour involved in receiving the OHS Fred Landon Award, recognizing Levelling the Lake for its contribution to regional history. […] Perhaps awareness of the interaction between social and economic activity and environmental quality at the watershed level will also help to stimulate – along with Greta Thunberg’s encouragement – effective responses to the broader contemporary challenges of climate change.”
Levelling the Lakepreviously won the Albert B. Corey Prize, awarded to the best book on the history of Canadian-American relations by theAmerican Historical Associationand theCanadian Historical Association.
Founded in 1888, the Ontario Historical Society is a non-profit corporation and registered charity dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Ontario’s history for people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
Congratulations to Professor Benidickson on this exceptional honour!
Read more about Levelling the Lake: Transboundary Resource Management in the Lake of the Woods Watershed.