Opposing the Land Transfer…

Opposing the Land Transfer at Wasaga Beach – Prioritize Piping Plover Conservation:

As a concerned citizen and supporter of science-based environmental stewardship, I strongly oppose the proposed legislative amendments that would remove portions of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park from provincial protection and transfer their control to the Town of Wasaga Beach.

Wasaga Beach is Ontario’s most important nesting habitat for the endangered Piping Plover, having supported over half of the province’s fledglings since 2007. This site is not only a rare ecological gem but also a conservation success story, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Ontario Parks, Birds Canada, and local volunteers.

Transferring this land to municipal control, without clear and enforceable conditions for ongoing conservation, puts this critical habitat and the species it supports at serious risk. With recent weakening of the Endangered Species Act under Bill 5, this proposal could leave these federally listed birds with no meaningful habitat protection at all.

I urge the Province to
• Maintain the current provincial park boundaries to ensure continued protection for Piping Plover habitat
• If the transfer proceeds, include binding commitments for year-round habitat conservation, prohibition of mechanical raking and dune alteration, and support for science-led stewardship programs
• Guarantee sustained involvement of experts like Birds Canada in any future management or development of these lands

Ontario has a responsibility to lead by example in conserving endangered species. Please do not allow a strong legacy of stewardship at Wasaga Beach to be undone