I am against the proposed…

I am against the proposed interim changes to the Endangered Species Act, 2007 and the proposal for the Species Conservation Act, 2025. As a conservation professional and lifelong nature lover, these changes would threaten Ontario's biodiversity. In particular, I am against the proposed changes to the definition of habitat, and defining this as "a dwelling place, such as a den, nest, or similar place, occupied or habitually occupied by one or more members of a[n animal] species for the purposes of breeding, rearing, staging, wintering, or hibernating” or “the critical root zone surrounding a member of the [vascular plant] species”. This would miss key areas of species-at-risk habitat that are necessary for foraging, dispersal, and breeding. I like-wise do not support the move to a "registration first" approach to development. Issuing permits for development ensures that activities are reviewed and proper suggestions are made to mitigate harm to at-risk species. Removing these protections would see even more harm done to vulnerable species.