The proposed changes to the…

The proposed changes to the regulations will not help the conservation areas or Ontario residents. If amenities aren't maintained fewer people will be able to use the areas and connect with nature. If we want to ensure that future generations are connected and care about nature you have to provide them with the opportunity to connect. Not all residents are comfortable bushwhacking but will enjoy maintained trails. Other individuals with disabilities will be physically unable to enjoy the benefits of the natural environment without maintenance of some amenities.

Increasing user fees to cover defunded maintenance makes it more difficult for individuals with limited finances to use the areas. Putting pressure on local governments to pick up the shortfall means residents of affluent municipalities will have better access to natural areas than those living in less affluent areas.

In addition if areas aren't maintained as well as they used to be, the province may discover that the people visiting them are less likely to take care when using the area.