I wholeheartedly disagree…

I wholeheartedly disagree with the proposed updates to the Ontario Wetland Evaluation System without further consultation with Conservation Authorities’ experts and full transparency with the citizens of Ontario as to the veracity of the proposed changes.

The Silver Creek Wetland, deemed a provincially significant wetland, is located in Collingwood, ON in the Nottawasaga Watershed and is very important for flood control, water filtering, groundwater recharge and discharge and provides important fish and wildlife habitat. The Silver Creek Wetland absorbs excess rainwater and snowmelt, slows floodwaters helping to alleviate property damage. In the face of climate change, the Silver Creek Wetland is even more important as we experience more extreme storm events.

In addition, the Wetlands provide a critical habitat for threatened and endangered species such as the Least Bittern and the Spotted Turtle, as well as the provincially rare plant species, Stiff Yellow Flax. These and a number of other fish, wildlife and vegetation would be wiped out with the abolition of proper wetland evaluation and protection. I want to protect the Silver Creek Wetland from erroneous development and keep it as one of the most important features of our natural heritage in Ontario for generations to come.

I am also very concerned with the effects these changes will have on protecting other significant wetlands in the province. These wetlands also protect watersheds and numerous species.