Regarding wetlands in…

Regarding wetlands in Ontario, it is vitally important to retain existing functional wetlands especially in southern Ontario, due to the important functions wetlands perform in sequestering carbon, absorbing excess water during major rainfall events and retaining moisture during periods of drought. In addition wetlands are an integral part of eco-systems providing water, habitat and food resources for a wide number of plant and animal species. Southern Ontario has lost a large proportion on once existing wetlands over the past 200 years due mainly to past agricultural practices and development of roads and communities.
Wetland complexes are integrated eco-systems with various units supporting the health and vitality of the entire wetland complex and adjoining lands. Evaluations need to continue to look at the whole wetland complex and the inter-relationships.
The province has an important stewardship role in maintaining a vibrant system of wetlands across southern Ontario.