I support the creation of a…

I support the creation of a conservation reserve along the South Shore of Prince Edward County. Residents have long recognized the value of Ostrander Point Crown land and the Point Petre Provincial Wildlife Area, and it’s appropriate to protect them from all development. The status of Conservation Reserve is appropriate for the following reasons:

1. The land is presently undeveloped and therefore provides a unique opportunity to protect the last surviving pieces of crown-owned, natural environment on the Lake Ontario shore.
2. Both pieces of land lie within the South Shore Important Bird Area, which provides vital habitat especially for migratory birds crossing Lake Ontario.
3. The South Shore is a staging point for Monarch Butterflies on their long migration.
4. Recent studies by the Prince Edward County Field Naturalists have documented the remarkable biodiversity of these lands and their importance for rare and endangered species like the piping plover, black tern, and Blanding’s turtle.
5. During the past 15 years PEC residents have shown their commitment to keeping the South Shore natural by opposing wind development at Ostrander Point and by helping financially to set aside private lands such as the Rose-Hudgins property and the Miller Family Nature Preserve.
6. The Ostrander Point Crown land and the Point Petre Provincial Wildlife Area have long been frequented by bird-watchers, hunters, and ATVers. Conservation Reserve status would enable better regulation of these usages.

Though I live elsewhere in Prince Edward County, I urge the Ministry of Environment to designate the proposed areas as Conservation Reserves so the natural environment can be protected for the enjoyment of many Ontarians.