For the benefit of Ontarians…

For the benefit of Ontarians, Ontario should strengthen the species at risk act. I believe more investment in monitoring of plant and animal communities is important for having up to date information on the status of wild populations. It is important to not only consider individual species, but also species communities and ecosystems at risk (e.g. wetlands, old growth forest) which support species at risk. With increasing risk of climate change effects, forecasting of future impacts on wild populations of plants / animals should be considered (e.g. work MNRF does). It is important that future developments and industries take into consideration species at risk, and relocate or modify plans to avoid species at risk areas or mitigate impacts.