Hard pass. This is terrible…

Hard pass. This is terrible legislation. Here is my assessment:

Your proposal to replace the Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) with the new Species Conservation Act, 2025 (SCA) introduces significant changes that, overall, weaken protections for wildlife in the province.

Key Changes and Implications:

Shift from Permits to Registration:

The current ESA requires permits for activities that may harm species at risk. The proposed SCA would allow most such activities to proceed immediately after online registration, without prior review.

While this aims to reduce delays for development projects, it raises concerns about inadequate oversight and potential harm to species and habitats.

Redefinition of Habitat and Removal of "Harass":

The SCA proposes a narrower definition of "habitat," focusing on specific dwelling places like nests or dens, and excludes broader ecosystems essential for species' survival.

The term "harass" would be removed from prohibited activities, potentially allowing disturbances that could negatively impact species.

ERO Ontario

Elimination of Recovery Strategies and Advisory Committees:

Mandatory recovery strategies, management plans, and progress reviews for species at risk would no longer be required.

The Species Conservation Action Agency and the Species at Risk Program Advisory Committee would be disbanded, reducing scientific and public input into conservation efforts.

Government Discretion Over Species Listing:

While the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO) would continue to assess species, the government would have discretion to add or remove species from the protected list, potentially politicizing species protection decisions.

Exclusion of Certain Species from Provincial Protection:

Migratory birds and aquatic species already protected under federal law would no longer receive additional provincial protections, which could lead to regulatory gaps.

Introduction of the Species Conservation Program:

A new program would replace the current stewardship program, with increased funding for voluntary conservation activities. However, the effectiveness of voluntary measures compared to mandatory protections is uncertain.

Overall Assessment:

The proposed changes prioritize economic development and aim to streamline processes for projects impacting species at risk. However, they significantly reduce mandatory protections, oversight, and scientific input, very likely leading to increased risks for vulnerable wildlife and their habitats.

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Buildings are not more important than wildlife. Do better!!!