Burlington MPP Eleanor McMahon will be significant part of the provincial review of Conservation Authorities Act; What will this mean to Conservation Halton?

By Staff

July 21, 2015

BURLINGTON, ON

Conservation Authorities across the province will participate in a discussion and review of the Conservation Authorities Act as announced by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.

“The role of Conservation Authorities around Ontario’s natural resources has changed significantly over the years in response to increasing challenges to our water and land resources,” said Kim Gavine, General Manager of Conservation Ontario.

“Stresses such as climate change, rapid growth, and changing land uses significantly challenge the health of Ontario’s watersheds. The work of Conservation Authorities has had to change in order to reflect this and we expect to see this discussed through the review of the Conservation Authorities Act.”

Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities are local watershed management agencies that deliver a wide variety services and programs that protect and manage water and other natural resources in partnership with all levels of government, agencies, industry, and landowners.

Conservation Halton is a lot more than the Escarpment and Crawford Lake – just how much more?

The original Conservation Authorities Act was established in 1946. Some amendments have been made over time, including those in the 1990s which addressed local programs, fees, partnerships and other areas. In 2006, the scope of Conservation Authorities’ regulatory responsibilities changed to encompass additional water related hazards.

The Minster of Natural Resources and Forestry has posted a discussion paper for a 91 day comment period. The Ministry states that the objective for this review is to ‘improve the legislative, regulatory and policy framework that currently governs the creation, operation and activities of conservation authorities that may be required in the face of a changing environment’.

The discussion paper highlights and solicits feedback around three areas of interest: governance, funding mechanisms, and roles and responsibilities of Conservation Authorities.

Eleanor McMahon will play a leading role in the review of the Act that controls the 36 Conservation Authorities in Ontario.

“We look forward to having discussions with many different partners throughout this process,” said Gavine. “Conservation Authorities are committed to improving and streamlining watershed management in Ontario in order to ensure sustainable natural resources which are needed to support a vibrant economy, strong environment, and healthy people.”

Burlington’s MPP Eleanor McMahon is Parliamentary Assistant to Bill Mauro, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry; THE Ministry that is conducting the review.

Discussion Paper