As the Drainage…

As the Drainage Superintendent representing the Township of Wainfleet I am in support of the proposed changes to the Drainage Act.

I am highly supportive of the proposal to create a new process for simple drain improvements. Our municipality has numerous open ditch municipal drains with older engineer's reports, the drains typically function well and property owners are not interested in major changes. Often property owners who are interested in a minor change are concerned about how costs could escalate if a new report is undertaken and the whole drain reevaluated. Property specific minor improvement projects would go a long way in our community as long as the projects remain eligible for grant.

As a Township that has not undertaken many engineer's report updates in the last 15 years I am supportive of the proposal to update changes made during construction. It would be beneficial to have the most complete and correct "as built" for any works that are updated under a new report, as these new reports are a large undertaking.

The Township currently utilizes the voluntary DART protocol, and would be supportive of exemptions on certain drain repair and maintenance activities that are undertaken in accordance with that protocol. Obtaining permissions, authorizations and permits currently occupies a significant amount of time, streamlining the process would be beneficial to The Township's Drainage program. If a protocol could be added to deal with the potential species at risk it would be a greater benefit. Wainfleet has many F Class drains, but due to the potential for species at risk on most drains our approval process can be delayed.

Discussions and Feedback:
1. Beyond DART protocol, what additional protocols could be established to help streamline approvals?
-A protocol for drain maintenance when dealing with potential Species at Risk/Endangered Species.

2. What projects should be included in the definition of minor improvements? What else would you like a minor process to achieve?
Buffers, enlargement/improvement of bridges, culverts, tile, pumping stations and water gates, enclosures, widening.

3. Do you have any specific concerns with any of the items discussed in the paper?
No.

4. Do you have any additional suggestions to reduce burden or contribute to additional opportunities for your business?
Streamlined regulator approvals, DART protocol and/or dealing with Species at Risk/Endangered Species. Consistency between conservation authorities.