Grow Native Halton opposes…

Grow Native Halton opposes the proposed merger of conservation authorities. The Province has not provided clear evidence that a merger is necessary or that existing conservation authorities are failing. Challenges such as inefficiencies or inconsistent service could be addressed through targeted improvements without dismantling a system that already works.
Conservation Halton has been a valuable partner to our organization and to communities across Halton Region. Its staff bring deep, place-based knowledge of local watersheds, ecosystems, species at risk, and land-use pressures. This local expertise directly supports effective conservation, restoration, and community education efforts and cannot be easily replicated within a much larger, more centralized authority.
The proposed merger would weaken local decision-making and accountability. Municipalities provide the majority of conservation authority funding, while provincial funding is minimal. Under a significantly larger merged authority, local voices and regional priorities would carry less weight despite continued municipal investment.
Mergers are costly and disruptive, yet no funding plan, cost analysis, or clear implementation details have been provided. Conservation authorities like Conservation Halton already deliver efficient, reliable service and meet provincial expectations. Reorganization risks undermining strong local relationships with municipalities, community groups, landowners, volunteers, and Indigenous partners—relationships that are essential to successful conservation.
Until governance, costs, impacts, and demonstrated benefits are clearly explained, this proposal should not proceed.