The government must realize…

The government must realize that the use of wetlands throughout Ontario by species at risk is not an unimportant factor in protecting these habitats from development. Wetlands are extremely biodiverse habitats that serve as essential breeding grounds, hibernation sites, migratory stopovers for many species. To disregard the ecological, social, and economic importance of Ontario's wetlands as they are now (that is to say, as undeveloped protected lands), is wildly irresponsible. Efforts should be made to maintain these protected areas and create housing where it is needed in existing residential zones. Using residential zones more efficiently would mean that our wetlands do not have to be compromised. I'm outraged to discover that this proposal makes light of value of these areas and the threatened species that use them, as if they are no longer important. Our wetlands are important and if we protect them, will last much longer than the quickly-built housing that threatens to destroy them now.