To the Ontario Ministry of…

To the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks:

I am a graduate student who does research on endangered animal species across Ontario, and I am writing to express my strong concern about the proposed Bill 5.

My first concern regards the changes to the definition of "habitat" and restriction of critical habitats to just those required for breeding. All species, but especially species at risk require safe habitat for more than just breeding. Foraging, mating, and migration stopover habitats, for example, are also crucial for the survival of a species. Furthermore, most species do not engage in any of these activities within the bounds of a nesting or hibernation site. Unchecked destruction of these other areas would prove extremely detrimental to endangered species.

My second concern regards the lack of scientific authorization regarding the "Registration-First" approach. This approach will prove dangerous as it will not require industries to meet any standards before beginning activities, and any destructive activities that are stopped "after-the-fact" cannot necessarily be undone or reversed. When it comes to loss of critical habitats, there is no going back.

Third, I am extremely concerned with the inevitability that the outcomes of Bill 5 will put the provincial government of Ontario in conflict with the federal government and with indigenous nations, regarding both legislation on endangered species and land use rights.

I commend the government of Ontario for their desire to improve human wellbeing through increasing productivity, however, the propositions outlined in Bill 5 will ultimately lead to more harm than good. There are many endangered species that directly impact human wellness and industry (agriculture for example). Their loss would be detrimental not only to our natural systems but to humans as well. Further, unchecked or unregulated use of our natural resources will, in the long-term, be of more harm than any short-term benefits it can provide.

I thank the Ministers for their attention, and implore them not to pass Bill 5.