As an Ecologist based in…

As an Ecologist based in Central Ontario, and a certified wetland evaluator per the OWES, I am pleased to see that the protections for Black Ash are limited to the extent of the cause of its decline - the Emerald Ash Borer distribution. I undertake a large amount of wetland delineations in Northern Ontario, and can attest to the contrast between Black Ash abundance in Northern Ontario compared to its decline in Southern Ontario. The majority of the wetlands that I have visited in Northern Ontario within the past few years have contained an abundant and healthy amount of mature, seedling and sapling Black Ash. This year alone, 70% of our sites contained Black Ash, with many of the swamps dominated by the species. A 'full-protections' approach would simply remove any feasible use to the lands of our clients.

The two-tiered approach to Black Ash protections appears to be very reasonable.

Thank you.