The proposal to merge…

The proposal to merge Ontario's conservation authorities is a dangerous idea—not only for outdoor recreation enthusiasts from hunters to hikers, but also for the Ontario Conservative government as this issue gains more attention, and the Ontario taxpayer for whom this is an expensive and inefficient use of public funds.

As a hunter, I am especially concerned. My conservation authority already provides robust, efficient and responsive service to provide reliable (and even expanding-over-time) access to high quality, not over-pressured land tracts. There are many anxiety-provoking reasons why the merger proposal threatens to add uncertainty about the locally-responsive service provided, and even complicate or reduce access to the same lands.

This issue will motivate my voting and energy to mobilize my community in the coming months. There is no evidence of benefit compared to the current organization and local responsiveness of conservation authorities. Be warned of how much the hunting and general public will be mobilized by this issue!