The Rideau Valley…

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority has significant concerns with the proposal to shift certain storm water management works from the Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) process to a process that relies on self-registry through the Environmental Activity and Sector Register (EASR). The risk of impact from storm water for surface and groundwater quality (including drinking water supply), flood control, erosion control and natural heritage, warrants robust scrutiny through the ECA process, which is already being streamlined through the Constructed Linear Infrastructure EAC. Experience with storm water management plan review confirms that there are significant issues with adherence to existing Provincial guidance and local master servicing studies, etc. The current process is not red tape. It is the exercise of responsible due diligence to protect and sustain a invaluable resource upon which all Ontarians rely. Opportunities for further process improvements within the context of the existing framework should be explored and implemented without deferring to the EASR.