A few thoughts on the…

A few thoughts on the proposed changes to CA's.

I agree. Each CA has unique watershed issues that local knowledge and input is essential for water management.

Having had spent many years dealing with and working with Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority. I am concerned with the Ford Government Bill 68 and the impact that it will have on the management of this watershed and other watersheds.

Water management includes flood control, low water augmentation, ground water source protection, municipal water supply, and land use planning and development

For example, although there are several head water lakes including Mazinaw, Mississagon, Kashwakamak, and Big Gull, Crotch Lake is the main reservoir. It experiences biannual drawdowns of 10 to 14 feet. Carleton Place is considered one of the fastest growing communities in Canada. It relies on the Mississippi for all of its water. What is the "carrying capacity" of the Mississippi River as it relates to the rapid growth and development of Carleton Place? The Mississippi has experienced downstream flooding in recent years. The mitigation strategy is to get rid of the excess water as soon as possible. But what about a severe drought? What is the mitigation strategy to resolve that issue especially as it applies to Carleton Place and its municipal water supply?

There are 46 municipalities within the St. Lawrence Regional Conservation Authority. Each municipality contributes taxpayers dollars towards the operation of each CA. Currently each municipality has representation on each CA's Board. The proposal is to have 5 to 12 representatives on the newly formed Board.

How will they be chosen and by whom? Will they be bureaucrats or politicians? How will each of the current CA's be represented? How will the municipalities be represented? How about other stakeholders such as the hydro-electric producers, lake associations, tourist operators, First Nations.

What will be the funding structure for the new SLCA?

The current CA's have property, equipment, vehicles, etc. How will these resources be distributed, or disposed of? Where will the new Head Office be located? How many staff will be required to operate the SLRCA? Will there be satellite offices and equipment storage facilities?

Will there be fewer staff required to operate the new CA? Will the new CA be able to operate more efficiently and more cost effectively than the current CA structure? How will the proposed Regional CA manage and maintain all of the dams? Time and distance will be an important cost factor in operating dams and assessing site approvals within this new entity.

What will the costs be to create this new SLRCA and eliminate existing CA's? Will this amalgamation cost more to operate than the existing management system?

Bigness is not always best.