1. Landscape Approaches I…

1. Landscape Approaches

I support recovering species by looking at the entire landscape and taking actions that will contribute the most to improving habitat and protecting species from harm; however, also believe that care must be taken to ensure that the individual needs of each species are taken into account. There will be situations in which a species-specific approach is warranted.

2. Species Listing Process and Protections

The ability of the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO) to determine the status of species, independent of the government, is essential to the proper functioning of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Improved communication and transparency in all aspects of species assessment and protection is warranted to provide clarity for members of the public and businesses.

Habitat loss or degradation is the primary cause of species decline. Automatic protection, combined with clear communication regarding where impacts can and cannot occur, would protect species and provide certainty regarding what to expect in terms of economic development.

3. Species Recovery Policy and Habitat Regulations

Delays and inaction are detrimental to species. They also result in economic uncertainty, since businesses are uninformed regarding the parameters under which they must operate. What is needed for both specifies recovery and economic development is for the government to focus resources on quickly providing the framework for protecting habitat and taking action.

4. Permitting Processes

I am in favour of consistent application and streamlining of decisions, which must also include decisions to deny a permit for an activity that would harm a species or its habitat. Permits allowing harm to endangered species or their habitat pose considerable risk and thus need to be issued with strict conditions. Extinction is permanent.

In summary, I want strong protection for Species at Risk in Ontario, which requires prioritizing the conservation of species at risk and the habitats on which they depend through improved implementation of the Endangered Species Act in its current form. Our economy will benefit by clear regulations, swift responses, and improved communications, not by delays and exemptions in applying the ESA, which is a critical backstop against extinction.