This proposal will…

This proposal will drastically impact the effectiveness of program delivery by conservation authorities across Ontario. Reducing the number of authorities from 36 down to only 7 regional authorities will severely weaken programming related to flood forecasting, community outreach, and natural resource management. These programs offer vital knowledge to members of the community regarding natural assets, land management, and general education of environmental management and public safety. Diminishing these would result in reduced public awareness and preparedness in the face of environmental changes or natural disasters. While this proposal claims that it will "reduce duplication of efforts", it fails to explain how they will achieve this outcome. In reality, reducing staff capacity while increasing regional jurisdiction will result in slower program delivery, decrease the efficiency of land assessments, and place higher stress and workload onto fewer individuals. This approach both impacts service quality and institutional capacity. Ontario's conservation authorities framework is internationally marveled for its effectively and innovation. Hence, it is deeply concerning that such a well-regarded and successful system is being dismantled without clear evidence that the proposed changes would improve any outcomes. This proposal represents a huge disservice to conservation professionals across Ontario and to the communities they serve. I strongly urge the Ontario government to reject this proposal.