Subject: Feedback on…

Subject: Feedback on Proposed Changes to Conservation Authority Boundaries in Ontario

To Whom It May Concern

Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback regarding the proposed changes to Conservation Authority boundaries in Ontario.

My primary concern relates to the delivery of educational programming. As an Environmental Educator working within an area managed by a smaller local Conservation Authority, I believe one of the greatest strengths of these organizations lies not only in their ability to protect land but also in their capacity to provide engaging, educational opportunities for students and children within their watershed. Environmental education improves academic achievement, fosters environmental stewardship, and strengthens communities, while enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students (North American Association for Environmental Education [NAAEE], 2020; UNESCO, 2021). Hands-on, place-based learning connects students to their local environment, increasing intrinsic motivation and long-term engagement (NAAEE, 2020).

Educating students about their local watershed is invaluable. When young people develop a relationship with their natural environment during adolescence, it fosters a lifelong sense of connection and stewardship. Individuals who grow into environmentally conscious adults typically contribute to healthier ecosystems and well-maintained communities (UNESCO, 2021). This connection also encourages greater use of local natural spaces, which in turn supports local economies. Many educational festivals and grassroots initiatives to restore and enhance natural areas have been successfully implemented in our region with the guidance and support of local Conservation Authorities (Conservation Ontario, 2023).

Within our local school board, Conservation Authorities are among our most important community partners. We have a long-standing relationship that benefits both parties: Conservation Authorities receive funding through programming, while schools gain access to natural areas and expert knowledge. These partnerships are integral to place-based, experiential, and environmental education (Conservation Ontario, 2023). I urge you to consider the significance of these established relationships when evaluating amalgamation.

Additionally, I am concerned about the preservation of keystone species and species at risk. Ontario hosts over 30,000 species, but biodiversity is declining rapidly. Southern Ontario alone has 133 species at risk, and 98% could face local extinction by 2050 without urgent action (Ontario Nature, 2024). Carolinian forests, which make up only 1% of Canada’s landmass, support 25% of Canada’s at-risk species (Ontario Nature, 2024). Amalgamation risks eroding local knowledge and understanding of the unique processes required to preserve these spaces. What works for one protected area may not be effective for another. Smaller Conservation Authorities possess intimate knowledge of their ecosystems, which is critical for effective conservation.

Natural spaces provide immense ecological, social, and economic benefits. Trees and vegetation help mitigate climate change by absorbing CO₂, cooling communities, and improving air quality (Government of Canada, 2023). Proximity to nature accelerates healing and reduces healthcare costs, as shown in studies linking green infrastructure to improved health outcomes (World Health Organization [WHO], 2021). Furthermore, Ontario’s natural beauty attracts tourism and supports local businesses, contributing over $2.3 billion annually to local economies (Ontario Parks, 2023). The Greenbelt alone generates $9.6 billion in economic activity and supports 177,700 jobs (Greenbelt Foundation, 2022).
I respectfully ask that you consider the wide-ranging benefits that Conservation Authorities provide to local communities, students, and ecosystems. Their partnerships and local expertise are vital and should not be compromised.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Environmental Educator in Ontario

References:

Conservation Ontario. (2023). Environmental education programs. Retrieved from https://conservationontario.ca
Greenbelt Foundation. (2022). Greenbelt economic impact report. Retrieved from https://greenbelt.ca
Government of Canada. (2023). Benefits of urban forests. Retrieved from https://canada.ca
NAAEE. (2020). Benefits of environmental education. Retrieved from https://naaee.org
Ontario Nature. (2024). Species at risk in Ontario. Retrieved from https://ontarionature.org
Ontario Parks. (2023). Economic impact of parks and tourism. Retrieved from https://ontarioparks.com
UNESCO. (2021). Education for sustainable development. Retrieved from https://unesco.org
WHO. (2021). Urban green spaces and health. Retrieved from https://who.int