I am concerned about this…

I am concerned about this proposed act to amalgamate conservation authorities (CAs) into regional conservation authorities. This is NOT a good idea and does not provide social or ecological benefits to Ontarians.

As someone working in conservation and a background in environmental science, it is known that watersheds can behave differently from its headwaters to the delta in which they drain. Municipalities built around these watersheds also have very different topographies, biodiversity, and levels of urbanization.

For example, the proposed boundaries for the Huron-Superior and the North Eastern Regional Conservation Authorities are not geographically consistent with one another, with both of them spanning several hundred kilometres. The watershed health, and conditions in Thunder Bay are not the same as those in Barrie. These municipalities are over 1400 km from one another and grouped in the same region. They have different climates, differing land-use types, are situated by two different Great Lakes, and have different populations, and flora and fauna. Spanning all that distance will affect the timeliness and fairness of resource allocation, in which these two regions have differing needs.

Similarly, the watersheds around Timmins and Sault Ste. Marie are not similar, where rivers north of Chapleau drain into the Hudson’s Bay, and Algoma headwaters flow into Lake Superior. They have different forest types as well. That has drastic impacts on how municipalities are affected by floods, snow melt, and increasing urbanization/development/industry.

Ultimately, I am doubtful that a regional conservation authority will be able to maintain or strengthen relationships with local municipalities, especially in Northern Ontario, whose environments are completely different. CA boards need local governance comprised of city councillors, conservation science experts, First Nations leaders, local business owners, and community members who have a stake in their home environment.

Consolidating CAs will also further limit the number of conservation jobs in this province, limiting opportunities for future generations. As a conservation worker, I fear my job will be at risk.

CAs as they stand have an intimate knowledge and of the land now need additional resources to support and protect their local municipalities. Local governance is key to keeping communities safe, and the current CAs need more support for their municipalities. There is no need for amalgamation which will only result unnecessary spending of tax dollars, and jeopardize the livelihoods of all Ontarians.