Re: Proposed Changes to the…

Re: Proposed Changes to the Endangered Species Act

Dear Sir or Madame,

I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes to Ontario’s Endangered Species Act. These changes pose a significant threat to the protection and recovery of vulnerable species in our province.

First, shifting to a registration-first system for permits could undermine oversight and allow harmful activities to proceed before proper environmental assessments are conducted. This weakens the precautionary approach that is essential for protecting at-risk species and their habitats.

Second, allowing the government to override decisions made by COSSARO—an independent scientific body—threatens the integrity of the species-at-risk list. Science, not politics, must guide decisions about which species are protected.

Third, changing the definition of “habitat” could narrow protections and exclude vital areas needed for species recovery, further endangering wildlife that is already at risk due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Lastly, the proposal to stop compiling recovery strategies and progress reviews where federal documents exist is a step backward. Provincial and federal responsibilities are not interchangeable; Ontario must continue to lead in developing comprehensive, localized strategies to protect its biodiversity.

These changes would create more loopholes than safeguards and prioritize short-term development over long-term conservation. Ontario has a responsibility to protect its unique and irreplaceable wildlife for future generations. I urge the government to reconsider these changes and strengthen—not weaken—the Endangered Species Act.

Thank You