I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my concern about the proposed amalgamation of the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) into a new Northeastern Ontario Regional Conservation Authority.

I am concerned that the proposed consolidation will:
Impact recreational trail management. Any delays or reductions in local capacity could affect trail maintenance, land use agreements, and public access that our community groups depend on.
Disrupt long-standing community partnerships. Local relationships between conservation authorities, municipalities, volunteers, and recreation organizations have taken decades to build.
I respectfully request that the Province prioritize local representation, local operational control, and protection of northern community interests before moving forward with any restructuring. Conservation authorities have successfully delivered watershed protection for more than 60 years, and changes should strengthen, not weaken, local expertise and accountability.
Thank you for considering my comments. I urge the Ministry to ensure that any new structures preserve the strong local stewardship and community partnerships that protect both our natural environment and our recreational opportunities.
I also feel that the smaller communities needs will get overlooked as focus will be on the larger population areas.