I am not supportive of the…

I am not supportive of the changes to "A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe" that strip endangered species protections in the Greater Golden Horseshoe nor the changes that remove protections for waterways, deleting them from the growth plan’s definition of what qualifies as an ecological function. While economic growth and development are important, they cannot and should not be pursued at the expense of endangered species, clean waterways and a healthy, diverse, vibrant and ecologically productive environment. The "Place to Grow" plan needs to build in stronger protections for species, waterways, and habitats while taking into consideration climate change impacts and ensuring we are building resilient human and ecological communities that are able to grow and adapt to a changing climate while still maintaining ecological productivity. In this same vein, measures that have been previously introduced that exempt the forestry industry from the Endangered Species Act need to be revoked and stronger rules need to be enforced that ensure the forestry industry is operating in a sustainable manner that protects endangered species (and other species and habitats as well). While it is commendable that the Greenbelt exists and is protected, a "belt" of green is not enough. The Greater Golden Horseshoe needs to integrate nature into society, not relegate it to the outskirts.