I am writing as a…

I am writing as a constituent to express my serious concern regarding the proposed consolidation of Conservation Authorities and the potential impacts on the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA).

While I understand the intent to improve efficiency, I am deeply concerned that consolidation would weaken the very strength of Ontario’s conservation model: locally governed, watershed-based decision-making rooted in deep ecological knowledge of place.

The ABCA watershed is ecologically fragile and highly altered. Today, only approximately 2% of the watershed remains classified as wetland, placing it among the lowest wetland cover levels in Ontario. The majority of this remaining wetland area is concentrated in Hay Swamp, a provincially significant wetland complex that now provides outsized benefits for flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, water quality, and species-at-risk habitat. Without Hay Swamp, remaining wetland cover in the watershed would be drastically lower.

This extreme historic wetland loss means the ABCA region depends on highly nuanced, locally informed conservation decisions. Expanding governance across a much larger and ecologically diverse area risks diluting local voices and disconnecting decision-making from on-the-ground realities — ultimately weakening environmental protection rather than strengthening it.

At a time of increasing climate-driven flooding, erosion, and biodiversity loss, I urge you to advocate for maintaining strong, locally governed Conservation Authorities like ABCA. Conservation outcomes are most effective when decisions are made by those who understand the watershed, the landowners, and the long-term ecological risks specific to their region.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope you will stand up for the continued protection of our local watersheds and the communities that depend on them.