Thank you for this…

Thank you for this opportunity to comment on the Updating Ontario's Water Quantity Management Framework. As a citizen I feel this is one of the crucial issues of our time. Water is a natural and essential resource and should therefore be controlled by the citizens for the health of communities, without fearing competition with commercial interests. I live in a jurisdiction (Centre Wellington) where this has been a struggle over the past 5 years.

On the basis of this Water Management Framework, it looks as though our provincial government is finally addressing this vitally important issue. I would like to comment on 4 key components:

1. THE MINISTRY PROPOSES TO MAKE MUNICIPAL SUPPORT A CONDITION FOR WATER BOTTLERS

This is critical and I applaud the wisdom of ensuring that municipalities are an essential part of this decision-making process. It seems obvious that municipalities, the level of government most accountable for the well-being of communities, should have control in questions of water-taking. In our case, the citizens in Centre Wellington have done an amazing amount of research and clear thinking when confronted with Nestle's purchase of a well. We have worked closely with our municipal government around water-taking issues. This is a perfect example of how a grassroots response, informed and well-prepared, has helped to shape our municipal government's role and advocacy. We are more than prepared to deal with questions of water-taking to ensure good sources of fresh water for our communities for generations to come.

THE MINISTRY PROPOSES TO SET PRIORITIES FOR WATER USE

Yes, a priority system for water use is a must. It makes perfect sense with environment and municipal water use coming first, then agriculture and only then commercial and industrial water-taking like commercial water bottling.

THE MINISTRY PROPOSES TO ASSESS AND MANAGE MULTIPLE TAKINGS OVER LARGER AREAS

Again, a very prudent and forward-thinking direction in relation to water use. As it is difficult to understand the needs and the impacts of water-taking, attention must be paid to the cumulative effects of water-takers on a regional area or watershed. We must improve how we are going to manage the effects of climate change and water use and still protect ecosystems. We must speak up for the rivers and streams, the flora, fish and fauna.

THE MINISTRY PROPOSES TRANSPARENCY

Absolutely! It’s essential that water-taking and monitoring data be available to the public. An accessible database is important not only for water managers, conservation authorities, and water users, but also to ensure Indigenous and public involvement and participation in any issues and conflicts regarding water.