The Northern River Basins Study was established on September 27, 1991 by the governments of Canada, Alberta and the Northwest Territories to examine the relationship between industrial, municipal, agricultural and other development and the Peace, Athabasca and Slave River basins. The NRBS was launched in response to concerns expressed by northern residents following the late 1980's decision of the Alberta Government to allocate additional forestlands for pulp and paper production. From its beginning in 1991 to its completion in 1996, work completed by the NRBS remained timely and relevant. Approximately 150 research projects were contracted under eight categories including contaminants, drinking water, nutrients, traditional knowledge, hydrology/hydraulics, synthesis and modeling, food chain and other river uses. The NRBS Board presented its Report to the Ministers on June 5, 1996.