•EACOM supports the proposal…

•EACOM supports the proposal to extend the current Section 55 Regulation by two years to allow for the creation of an independent expert panel to provide advice on a long-term solution for species at risk in Ontario’s managed Crown forests. •The extension provides a more predictable regulatory environment for the next two years while the panel completes its mandate. •We believe it is possible for such a panel to propose solutions that achieve all our common objectives: provide for the protection of SAR, support forest management and reduce implementation challenges. •In developing the SAR strategy, the Province needs to properly consider climate change, local and indigenous knowledge and current peer reviewed science. •A progressive SAR strategy must include the consideration of a landscape-scale approach to SAR recovery and biodiversity conservation similar to that promoted by the CFSA which considers the needs of multiple wildlife species which inhabit the same landscape. The current single species approach under the ESA results in conflicts between species. •EACOM is committed to supporting this process and collaborating with all stakeholders and affected communities in order to find long-term solutions for SAR.

[Original Comment ID: 213331]