I agree with Hamilton…

I agree with Hamilton Conservation Authority’s submission to the ERO. I am concerned about losing local decision-making and I support keeping conservation decisions rooted in our community. The Hamilton Conservation Authority provides valued oversite of our local watersheds and a venue for significant local engagement and enjoyment of our local protected areas. I see at every visit, the diverse and enthusiastic use of the conservation areas under the HCA's administration. These are local people who deserve a local voice in the management and use of our local natural areas. These voices would be lost in a large bureaucracy!
As an environmental scientist with over 50 years of experience in the field, I have seen first hand that direct on the ground knowledge is essential for good environmental oversight. I cannot imagine how large a staff of a huge multi-watershed administration would be able to ensure the local knowledge and expertise to manage the natural areas and watersheds and also maintain the community engagement that forms an integral part of our current Conservation Authority.