I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my concern regarding the proposed amalgamation of the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) into a new Northeastern Ontario Regional Conservation Authority and urge the Province to consider maintaining local presence in this small, isolated region.

The SSMRCA plays a vital role in the Sault Ste. Marie community through its management of flood control infrastructure, stewardship of conservation lands, review of development proposals, and support of safe, sustainable recreational use. These responsibilities require strong local knowledge, timely decision-making, and established community relationships.

The Soo Finnish Nordic Ski Club, provides cross-country ski trails, fat bike trails, and snowshoe trails for the residents of Sault Ste. Marie and visiting tourists. They host provincial level ski races that support the local economy, teach hundreds of children to cross-country ski every year, groom the ski trails and have about 2000 trail pass holders every year. The ski club relies heavily on lands managed by the SSMRCA for public access and trail-based recreation and hold a Land Use Agreement with SSMRCA that is typically renewed every five years. The ski club maintains the trail systems, bridges and parking lots for use in the winter. Through close collaboration with our local Conservation Authority, the ski club has built and maintained high-quality, well-managed outdoor experiences that serve both residents and visitors year-round. These trails are also heavily used in the summer for mountain biking and hiking and are a key component of the city’s growing tourism economy, which Sault Ste. Marie relies on now more than ever.

I am concerned that consolidation into a larger regional authority could significantly impact recreational trail management and existing land-use agreements. The SSMRCA is very small in relation to the proposed new region. Any reduction in local capacity or delays in approvals could negatively affect trail maintenance, public access, and the ability of community organizations to respond quickly to safety issues or storm damage. These are not theoretical concerns; they directly affect public safety and the usability of the conservation lands. Storm damage is a common occurrence that requires quick responses from our local SSMRCA general manager.

Equally concerning is the potential disruption of long-standing community partnerships. The relationships between conservation authorities, municipalities, volunteers, and recreation organizations have been built over decades and are rooted in local trust and accountability. Without local oversight of trails within conservation areas, it is highly likely that unauthorized or “rogue” trails will develop, leading to land erosion, damage to sensitive ecosystems, and negative impacts on water quality and wildlife. Limited local presence could also result in increased unauthorized motorized vehicle use, further threatening environmental integrity and public safety. This happened in neighbouring MNRF/IO land where motorized vehicles on the land and unauthorized mountain bike trails threatened the local fish hatchery.

I respectfully urge the Province to prioritize local representation, local operational control, and the protection of northern community interests before moving forward with any restructuring. Conservation authorities have successfully delivered watershed protection and land stewardship for more than 60 years. Removing local expertise, responsiveness, and accountability will weaken the system and negatively impact the land, water and wildlife.

Thank you for considering my comments. I strongly encourage the Ministry to preserve the local management of the SSMRCA, the strong local stewardship and community partnerships that are essential to protecting both our natural environment and the recreational opportunities that contribute so significantly to the health and economy of our region.