To whom concerned, I am not…

To whom concerned,

I am not in favor of the proposed changes to the definition of "habitat," as they significantly weaken protections for endangered species by narrowing the scope of what constitutes a protected habitat. By reframing habitat to focus solely on immediate dwelling places and their surrounding areas, critical ecological functions and broader habitat needs may be overlooked. This redefinition could allow harmful activities to occur in vital breeding, rearing, and staging areas, ultimately jeopardizing the survival of already vulnerable species. Furthermore, the removal of the term "harass" from species protections diminishes the legal framework for preventing disturbances that can disrupt essential life processes. Together, these changes create uncertainty and increase the risk of habitat degradation, undermining the very purpose of the Endangered Species Act and threatening the delicate balance of Ontario’s ecosystems.