Logo: Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority
Conservation officials in Huron County say they will be keeping an eye on possible changes coming from the province.
The Government of Ontario has proposed the creation of a provincial watershed authority, the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA).
According to the province, the proposed OPCA’s aim would be, “improving the province’s conservation authority system to help get shovels in the ground faster on homes and other local infrastructure projects, while strengthening the vital role conservation authorities play in managing watersheds and protecting communities from floods and natural hazards.”
Chair of the ABCA Board of Directors, Ray Chartrand, says board members will hold a special meeting to discuss the Province’s proposal.
ABCA will also work with Conservation Ontario, which represents Ontario’s conservation authorities, in the coming weeks to provide input into the proposed changes.
The public, local municipalities, and other stakeholders will have a chance to review and comment upon Ontario’s proposal when it is posted on the Environmental Registry of Ontario in the coming days.
The Province has said there will be a 45-day consultation on the changes, when introduced.
“The Province has said they look forward to input on their proposal. That is encouraging,” Chartrand said.
“We hope people provide input to the government and that the government listens to that input. We appreciate that the Province of Ontario continues to recognize the need for conservation authorities to deliver the programs and services that we deliver today.”