I feel like centralizing…

I feel like centralizing environmental protection is a bad idea. Bigger agencies have less information about the specific, contextual needs of various watersheds and eco systems. Smaller, localized conservation authorities have better insight into the needs of the communities they serve.

Secondly, which is probably part the reason the government is moving to centralize in the first place, this process will likely create less protective oversight and reduce checks and balances, allowing potentially dangerous or disruptive projects to be developed. I imagine the impact studies and logistical hurdles will be reduced, resulting in harmful projects being rushed into development.

Finally, I feel the local conservation authority is active in our community, creating opportunities for connection, through event planning, communications and stewardship projects such as tree planting initiatives. I highly doubt a more centralized system will provide the same service for our communities.

Please do not dismantle these conservations authorities, I feel it would be a mistake.