I would like to express my…

I would like to express my strong objection to the proposed changes to the Conservation Authority System and Regional Consolidation of Ontario's Conservation Authorities, which includes the amalgamation of the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) with six other Southern Ontario Conservation Authorities to form the Huron-Superior Regional Conservation Authority.

As a resident of Thunder Bay and as a private citizen that has volunteered with the LRCA for almost thirty years, I have become very familiar with LRCA programing, and operations. For Seven decades LRCA have developed a strong role in flood forecasting and control, natural hazards mapping and protection, public education and conservation, all programs that supporting and protect the Lake Superior watershed, and residents. The LRCA programs have continued despite having core provincial funding reduced by the current Ontario Government during the past decade.

The amalgamation with a six other southern Ontario Conservation Authorities (that are 1200 km away) would result in loss of control and direction into how to properly manage the Lake Superior watershed. I am confident that the greater number of municipalities within the Huron section of the proposed Huron-Superior Regional Conservation Authorities will dictate how land use planning, flood control, and educational programing will be delivered, with little regard to the unique landscape of Northwestern Ontario. Currently the LRCA has representation from eight member municipalities, providing a unique insight into the needs of our area. Amalgamation with a far greater number of Lake Huron municipalities would dilute our local decision making, and strip away extensive local knowledge.

I support the recommendation that the LRCA form a stand alone independent Regional Conservation Authority, as the “Northwestern Ontario Regional Conservation Authority” to ensure that the interests of Northwestern Ontario are equitably represented.