If you're concerned that the province's new framework to amalgamate conservation authorities will impact services locally, don't be.
The Essex Region Conservation Authority said it has been assured that local programs and services will continue.
There are 36 conservation authorities across Ontario, and the government plans to merge them into nine regional authorities.
The Essex Region Conservation Authority will be merged with the Upper Thames River, Lower Thames Valley, and St. Clair to create a new Western Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority.
"While details of the transition remain to be answered, the province has emphasized that local programs and services will continue, that front-line staffing levels will not be affected, and conservation areas and assets will remain owned and managed by conservation authorities," said ERCA Chair Molly Allaire. "The province has also stated that local expertise and well-established relationships with municipalities, developers, and buildings will be retained within the new structure."
Throughout the transition, there will be no disruptions to ERCA programs, including caring for conservation areas and trails, drinking water source protection, watershed management services, stewardship programs, agricultural extension services, and education programs," added ERCA CEO Tim Byrne. "Above all, ERCA remains committed to protecting the watersheds and the residents of the Windsor-Essex County-Pelee Island region."
The transition is expected to be complete by early 2027.
