Thank you for the…

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on modernizing Conservation Authority operations under the Conservation Authorities Act.

Under Schedule 2 of Bill 108, “The More Homes, More Choice Act,” new definitions are given for the mandatory programs and services for Conservation Authorities. These four new definitions are rather vague and unclear. To better define the important work Conservation Authorities need to undertake for Ontarians, I suggest adding a fifth mandatory program – namely the conservation of natural resources. This reflects the mandate to further the conservation, restoration, development, and management of natural resources in a given watershed; and would include some of the programs and services that are now part of core Conservation Authority work, such as:

-inventory and monitoring
-watershed/subwatershed planning
-tree planting and forest management
-natural heritage systems planning
-habitat restoration and creation
-invasive species management
-stewardship and outreach activities

Due to the devastating floods caused by Hurricane Hazel in 1954, Conservation Authorities were further mandated to control floods. Floods can only be managed if Conservation Authorities are managing the whole watershed and this includes the conservation of natural resources within the watershed.

I appreciate the opportunity to comment on this matter. Thank you.