Conservation Authorities are…

Conservation Authorities are a unique entity and a model that has stood the test of time for over 70 years. I am glad that the province recognizes the value of the land holdings of the Conservation Authorities to the people of Ontario. Conservation Authorities are a good value for taxpayer money and are flexible and responsive to local environmental needs in our watersheds. I value the work on the ground to make residents safer and our environment more resilient. There is no one else doing what Conservation Authorities do and without it, Ontario would be a less desirable place to be. You cannot take the watershed out of the water. Floodplains cannot be managed if we don’t look back up the watershed and engage in review of proposals that may impact the runoff of water. We can watch floodplains get bigger or we can actively engage in their management and perhaps reduction by taking certain measures. The quality and quantity of drinking water cannot be managed if CAs are not looking at the watershed and ensuring that the water to support the supply continues to get where it needs to go. I encourage the province to see the bigger picture. Water management is becoming increasingly important and we need the tools and the act updated to recognize this and not constrain us.