I support the comments and…

I support the comments and recommendations submitted by Conservation Ontario regarding the proposed consolidation of Conservation Authority boundaries.

While I recognize the Province’s objective to improve effectiveness and consistency in watershed management, the proposed large-scale regional consolidation risks undermining local governance, accountability, and watershed-specific expertise. Conservation Authorities are most effective when aligned with natural watershed boundaries and supported by strong local municipal and Indigenous relationships.

I am particularly concerned that recent and significant legislative reforms affecting Conservation Authorities have not yet been fully implemented or evaluated. Introducing major structural consolidation at this time creates uncertainty, and may compromise service delivery and public confidence.

I support Conservation Ontario’s recommendation to pause mandatory consolidation and instead pursue incremental modernization, or voluntary, evidence-based consolidation where benefits can be clearly demonstrated.

Conservation Ontario’s submission:
https://conservationontario.ca/fileadmin/pdf/policy-priorities_section/…

I respectfully urge the Province to give significant weight to this submission when considering ERO #025-1257.