Logo: Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority
One conservation authority covering Huron County is expressing concerns with potential changes to the province’s “Conservation Authorities Act.”
In the Doug Ford government’s 2020 Budget, limits were proposed on the scope of conservation authorities’ “non-mandatory” programs and services.
The budget also proposes changes to how conservation authorities appoint a board of directors, and establishes more environmental powers for various provincial ministries.
The group Conservation Ontario has spoken out about the proposed changes, saying “changes have been made to the planning role for conservation authorities which could
actually put more people at threat, rather than protect them from natural hazards.”
The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority has echoed the sentiment.
Brian Horner, ABCA General Manager, says “We are encouraged the Province has re-confirmed the purpose and objects of the Conservation Authorities Act but some of the proposed changes could have a significant negative impact on the ability of conservation authorities to fulfill their watershed responsibilities.”
Ausable Bayfield Conservation is encouraging partner municipalities, residents throughout the jurisdiction and the conservation authority’s network of supporters to reach out to the Premier of Ontario; the Ontario Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks; the Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; the Ontario Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry; and their local member of provincial parliament (MPP) over the next couple of weeks to request that they address the outlined concerns, before the Bill is enacted.