I would like to strongly…

I would like to strongly encourage the provincial government and MPs not to adopt this legislation. The consolidation of conservation authorities is a further step to undermine the effectiveness of conservation authorities and the work they do to protect human health and safety, ensure sustainable development, and protect wildlife and their natural habitats.

Conservation authority boundaries have been drawn around watershed boundaries based on science that tells us this is the most effective way to manage water resources, prevent flooding, and protect drinking water. Amalgamating conservation authorities, whose staff and resources are already stretched, will reduce their ability to properly assess risks and mitigate hazards. It will also make it more difficult for local knowledge and experience to inform important decisions within our communities.

Adopting this legislation would be a huge mistake and a huge step backward for environmental protection in Ontario.