ERO 025-1257: Proposed…

ERO 025-1257: Proposed Boundaries for the regional consolidation of Ontario’s Conservation Authorities - Key Points: Short Version (complete submission attached)

The Willow Beach Field Naturalists (WBFN) wish to express our sincere concern related to ERO 025-1257 and request that the provincial government reconsider proceeding with the proposed boundaries for the consolidation of Ontario’s Conservation Authorities for the following reasons:

1. Oversight by the proposed OPCA will seriously erode the ability to focus on local priorities.
2. The changes are unnecessary to achieve the stated objectives that include standardized permitting and processes.
3. The scale of the consolidation presents an unacceptable risk to the delivery of effective locally focused conservation services.
4. The consolidation will result in the dilution of resources allocated to the protection of natural heritage.

We also feel that the legislative changes proposed for Bill 68 will further undermine the effective operation of the Conservation Authorities. The WBFN supports opportunities to modernize and improve the function of Conservation Authorities; however, the significance of the proposed changes requires further evaluation and direct consultation with affected stakeholders.

The following details the concerns of the WBFN regarding ERO 025-1257 (and associated legislative changes to Bill 68).

1. Creation of the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA)

The proposal fails to provide details on the make-up of the OPCA and the process for appointments.

The OPCA would be accountable to the Minister and cannot provide direction to the regional Conservation Authorities without the approval of the Minister. This leaves the conservation and protection of local natural heritage values vulnerable to competing provincial-level priorities.

2. ELORCA: Regional Consolidation of Conservation Authorities in Northumberland County

The proposal would consolidate the seven CA’s in Northumberland County into a single Eastern Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority (ELORCA). This creates serious challenges for effective delivery of local services and protection of natural heritage areas.

3. Impact on the WBFN Membership and the Public

We feel that the proposal will seriously impact the protections of conservation lands and natural areas enjoyed by the WBFN and the public in general. These changes will also reduce the accessibility to valued resources for the conservation programs that are supported by the existing CA’s. The uncertainty around the retention of offices and facilities along with the transition, costs, and impact on staffing will cause significant disruptions and put these programs at risk.

In summary, the WBFN recommends serious reconsideration of this proposal and requests that the province engage in further direct consultation with affected municipalities and other stakeholders to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

President
Willow Beach Field Naturalists