Photo provided by ABCA
The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) is carefully reviewing new plans from the Ontario government that could change how conservation authorities work across the province.
The province has proposed creating a new Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA) and merging some conservation authorities into larger, regional watershed groups. The goal, according to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, is to “improve service delivery and protect communities.”
ABCA Board Chair Ray Chartrand said the local authority is studying the proposal and will hold a special board meeting to discuss it. The ABCA Board represents 12 member municipalities.
The public will also get a chance to share their thoughts once the proposal is posted on the Environmental Registry of Ontario, where it will be open for a 45-day public consultation.
Chartrand said ABCA welcomes public input and hopes the government listens to community feedback.
He added that while ABCA supports efforts to make services more efficient, any changes must stay practical, science-based, and focused on local watershed management.
More details about the provincial plan and its public consultation will be available soon on the Environmental Registry of Ontario.
