Opposing Amalgamation of…

Opposing Amalgamation of Conservation Authorities

I am a resident of East Hamilton who regularly participates in outdoor sports and recreation on Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) lands, including areas along Lake Ontario and throughout the Dundas Valley. I strongly oppose the proposal to amalgamate Ontario’s conservation authorities into large regional bodies.

-HCA plays a direct and visible role in maintaining the lands and waterways I use for running, cycling, paddling, hiking, and community events. These spaces are well managed because decisions are made locally by those who understand Hamilton’s watershed.

-Local conservation authorities possess essential, place-based knowledge of shoreline erosion, flooding, valley systems, and habitat protection. Centralization across vast regions risks slower response times and weaker outcomes for communities like East Hamilton.

-Streamlining housing and development approvals can be achieved through targeted process improvements without dismantling trusted, locally governed conservation authorities that already balance growth with environmental protection.

-Conservation authorities are primarily funded by municipalities. Amalgamation risks redirecting funds raised in Hamilton away from local lands, facilities, and programs that residents directly rely on.

-Residents who use HCA lands for recreation, health, and community events do not want increased provincial control over areas that are currently well managed and locally accountable.

The Government of Ontario should abandon this proposal and preserve the existing locally managed, watershed-based conservation authority system, while pursuing housing solutions that do not compromise environmental protection or community access to natural spaces.