Freshwater Conservation planning

WCS Canada Comments - OMNR Wetland Conservation in Ontario Discussion Paper - October 2015

Wildlife Conservation Society Canada [WCS Canada]

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Abstract

We are pleased that Ontario is developing a Strategic Plan for Wetland Conservation. However, we suggest the primary focus should be proactive evaluation and land-use planning that explicitly includes wetland protection and the effects of climate change, rather than a sole focus on a mitigation/compensation hierarchy as outlined in the discussion paper. If a mitigation/compensation hierarchy must be instituted, it should emphasize avoidance and minimization, relying on compensation only as a last resort. These recommendations are particularly relevant to Ontario's Far North, where there is huge potential for wetland loss due to land-use changes, and few options for wetland restoration. We also provide detailed responses to the questions outlined in the discussion paper.

Recommended citation

Wildlife Conservation Society Canada [WCS Canada] (2015). WCS Canada Comments - OMNR Wetland Conservation in Ontario Discussion Paper - October 2015. WCS Canada. https://wcscanada.org/resources/wcs-canada-comments-omnr-wetland-conservation-in-ontario-discussion-paper-october-2015/