Carleton MPP, George Darouze…

Carleton MPP, George Darouze, is no doubt aware of the Level 3 low water conditions within the Rideau Valley, South Nation, and Mississippi Valley watersheds, brought on by severe drought conditions throughout this summer. Conservation authorities provided critical on-the-ground evaluations of the watershed levels to local authorities thereby enabling the situation to rise to a state of emergency. Hundreds of households in the vast rural communities surrounding Ottawa were faced with no drinking water due to dry private wells. The Rideau Valley watershed is over 4200 square km, of which 23% is wetlands. The network of lakes, rivers, and streams are mainly subject to flooding risk. What is clear is that local rapid response to conditions that would normally be unimaginable is critical to resiliency. Conservation authorities are increasingly important guardians and early warning rangers helping to keep residents safe as the impacts of climate change increase.
Conservation Authorities operate on a local watershed model, recognizing that water and ecosystems do not follow municipal boundaries. They are able to provide in-depth local environmental expertise and understanding of the waterways within their area, and share that information and analysis with communities. They are responsible for protecting drinking water sources, monitoring water levels and carrying out restoration work. On behalf of municipalities, they also decide whether development can happen in areas prone to natural hazards.
Within the Ottawa area the South Nation, Rideau Valley and Mississippi Valley Conservation Authorities coordinate with each other and deliver efficient and timely services to residents and municipalities. Improved digital toolsets and processes to enable better outcomes is welcome. Sustainable provincial funding for conservation is essential and an increase would be wise given the unpredictable and often unprecedented impacts of climate changes.