Hello, The proposal to merge…

Hello,

The proposal to merge 36 Conservation Authorities (CAs) into just seven regions under a new provincial agency, with the goal of improving consistency, reducing duplication, and freeing up resources for on-the-ground work needs to be clarified. Not all CAs have access to the same resources or funding models, so streamlining operations and finding collective efficiencies in principle are good ideas. Efficient service delivery, clarity of standards, and alignment across regions matter, especially when we’re dealing with natural hazards, flood management, and long-term watershed health. Having worked in a smaller CA in eastern Ontario, our partnership network is what made us strong, it was critical to come together, share resources and learnings, and creatively problem solve how to tackle the multiple challenges facing our natural environment.

The scale of this change has me thinking about the importance of local governance and the watershed model. This has anchored conservation work in Ontario for decades and is revered across the country. In this new model, will decision making be diluted? Data-driven solutions based on local priorities, unique environments, place-based expertise need to be incorporated into the new regional governance model to drive context-based decisions. I’m not yet understanding how consolidation would maintain or enhance service continuity and ensure local voices are heard. A strong implementation plan, with clear consultation with CAs, communities and partners, is needed BEFORE this proposal is passed.

For CAs to be efficient, effective, and resilient, especially in the face of climate change and increasing pressures on land and water resources, we need to encourage and incentivize meaningful local engagement, accountability, and community trust, not erode it. Working together toward solutions that balance efficiency while maintaining strong local governance and stewardship is key.

Recommendation 1: Governance Clarity
I recommend a consultation with CAs on how the communication and decision making will be completed before implementing this change. There can be regional models on how to speak about watersheds, however, the decision-making cannot be so far removed that it doesn't make effective on-the-ground change.

Recommendation 2: Funding Support
The proposed changes may impact eligibility of CAs to apply for funding. I strong discourage this. CAs do not all have access to the same funding baseline and with less than 5% from the province, the changes suggested will not be possible for all CAs. A revisit on the municipal and CA funding framework is needed.