I fully support the Hamilton…

I fully support the Hamilton Conservation Authority recent publicly issued response to this proposed bill.

It is absolutely appalling to me that the government would consider centralizing the crucial work of conservation authorities. This will undoubtedly result in a lack of understanding of the nuances of our watersheds locally, which is unthinkable, especially given the changing climate we are experiencing and unpredictable weather.

I strongly urge the government to consider and adopt the recommendations put forward by the Hamilton Conservation Authority, especially the recommendation to strengthen centralized standards, resources and communication across all conservation authorities, rather than this proposed consolidation and centralization.

Large- scale, regional consolidation would introduce substantial transition costs, and would divert resources away from frontline watershed programs. Restructuring at this scale would erode local decision-making, weaken municipal accountability and disrupt long-standing community partnerships that are central to delivering responsive watershed management.

I have worked with several of southern Ontario’s conservation authorities over the years as an employee and as a consultant. I can attest to the incredible level, and importance of the local science based knowledge that conservation authorities bring to their local watershed management.

Thank you.