Developing the government response statement for Black Ash under the Endangered Species Act, 2007

Description of policy

Ontario is developing this government response statement to identify and prioritize actions to protect and recover Black Ash, in response to recommendations in the recovery strategy prepared pursuant to s.11 of the ESA . This proposed government response statement provides policy direction to government and partners about what should be done to recover Black Ash in Ontario.

In developing this draft government response statement, we considered the advice and input from:

• the recovery strategy
• the public
• stakeholders
• Indigenous communities and organizations

Species at risk in Ontario

In Ontario, once a species is listed as endangered or threatened, there is a process for gathering information and developing policy guidance to support the protection and recovery of each species.

First, the province engages external individuals and organizations with expertise on the species to prepare recovery strategies. These documents form the foundation of scientific advice and can include knowledge from:

• the public
• stakeholders
• Indigenous communities and organizations

Once recovery strategies are finalized, the province develops a government response statement for each recovery strategy.

Learn more about species at risk in Ontario.

Proposed government response statement for Black Ash

We are proposing a government response statement in relation to the recovery strategy for Black Ash.

You can read the recovery strategy for Black Ash, which was finalized on September 6, 2022.

Purpose of policy

The proposed government response statement provides species-specific direction on the actions the government intends to lead and support in the protection and recovery of Black Ash.

The purpose of this notice is to:

• inform the public that the proposed government response statement has been prepared
• seek feedback on the proposed government response statement

The province will consider comments as the proposed government response statement is finalized. Please reference Environmental Registry number 019-6990 in the comments you submit.

Concurrently with this posting the province is seeking input on a regulatory proposal for Black Ash. To view and provide input on that proposal please see 019-7378.