The More Homes, More Choice…

The More Homes, More Choice 2019 Bill 108 proposes changes that has negative implications for the important on-the-ground work of Conservation Authorities. It is important to clearly define the mandatory programs and services to be programs for the protection and management of natural hazards.

Conservation Authorities are a unique made-in-Ontario model that has stood the test
of time for over 70 years. Climate change will increasingly affect our communities and we need the programs and services of Conservation Authorities to build resiliency against climate change. The Province should include an additional mandatory program area of “conservation of natural resources” to capture some of the core programs and services that have long been part of Conservation Authority work.

Since 1946 the core mandate of Conservation Authorities has been the program and
services that further the conservation, restoration, development and management of
natural resources on a watershed scale. After the devastating floods of Hurricane
Hazel, the mandate to control floods and pollution was added. This should be maintained.

Conservation Authorities are good value for money. They are flexible and responsive to the local environmental needs in watersheds across Ontario. The local presence of the Conservation Authority in my community has boots on the ground. No one else fills the role.

The natural environment contributes clean air, clean water and a multitude of
benefits important to the health and well-being of the people of Ontario. Conservation Authorities not only need the resources to manage CA lands and provide for Ontario’s growing population, Conservation Authorities also need resources to deliver programs and services that support the protection and restoration of private land through outreach and stewardship. Conservation Authorities are major providers of restoration activities including tree planting, wetland restoration and forest management as well as monitoring watershed health in Ontario.

Without a healthy natural environment and building resilience to climate change, we can't have a strong economy, reduce the provincial debt and create jobs. Investing in Conservation Authorities and in nature is imperative.

Thank you.