Proposed Consolidation of Conservation Authorities

For residents and stakeholders of the Kettle Creek watershed, this matters. Conservation authorities were built on local knowledge — people who understand the land, the watercourses, the flooding risks, the wildlife, and the needs of the local community. Local staff respond to emergencies, provide on-the-ground advice to landowners, and deliver well-used programs such as tree planting, wetland restoration and outdoor education. KCCA manages 9 Conservation Areas, 24 km of trails, and 2 campgrounds that support tourism, recreation, and local economies. KCCA provides timely, predictable approvals for landowners, municipalities, and developers, consistently meeting or exceeding provincial review timelines. Centralizing these roles risks slower service, reduced access, and decisions that don’t reflect the realities of our area. With Kettle Creek Conservation Authority representing just 3% of the area within the proposed new Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority, the unique concerns of small watersheds like ours could be overlooked or lost. 

That’s why public feedback is essential. The province is asking for comments before making any final decisions. This is a critical moment to speak up for local conservation, local expertise, and the programs and services that directly support you and our watershed. Your voice can help ensure that any changes protect what matters most: responsive service, fair funding, strong environmental protection, and decisions rooted in local understanding.

You can submit your comments on ERO posting #025-1257 until December 22, 2025.

Visit ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-1257 to share your feedback.