• CAs are a unique entity…

• CAs are a unique entity and a model that has stood the test of time for over 70 years. Our forefathers had it right.

• CAs are good value for money. They are flexible and responsive to local environmental needs in local watersheds

• CAs have a local presence; boots on the ground; no one else fills the role. I value the work on the ground to make residents safer and our environment more resilient. There is no one else doing what CAs do and without it, Ontario would be a less desirable place to be

• For years the debate has been what is in the core mandate of CAs and what is not. Since 1946 the core mandate has been the program and services that further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources on a watershed scale. After Hurricane Hazel the mandate to control floods and pollution was added. Watersheds, natural resources and hazards= core mandate.

• You cannot take the watershed out of the water. Floodplains cannot be managed without looking back up the watershed and engaging in the review of proposals that may impact the runoff of water. We can watch floodplains get bigger or we can ensure out conservation authorities have the mandate to 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 involved in the watershed and ensuring that the water to support the supply continues to get where it needs to go.

• water management is becoming increasingly important and we organizations like conservation authorities to be supported and flexible enough to be responsive the changing environment

• Change the terminology from Programs and services related to the risk of natural hazards to programs and services for the protection from and management of natural hazards. The proposed wording in the Act is too vague as to provide guidance as to the intent.

• the province should include an additional mandatory program area of “conservation of natural resources” to capture some of the programs and services that have long been part of a CAs core work, including:
o inventory and monitoring,
o tree planting and forest management,
o natural heritage systems planning,
o habitat restoration and creation,
o invasive species management and
o stewardship/ outreach activities.

CAs hold large tracts of natural lands and active park facilities. Many of these lands provide flood control, flow augmentation, and contain erosion and flood hazards as well as sensitive and provincially significant ecological areas. These parks are regional destinations like Ontario Parks. Visitations to the parks continue to rise with the increasing population, emphasis on the health benefits of nature and decreasing access to personal greenspace in housing choices. CAs need to be able to invest in facilities and land to allow for more visitors and better experiences. I am glad that management of CA lands is recognized as core mandate. Please ensure that the recreational value is also given consideration.