Commentary, Opinion

Conservation authorities are a pillar in our communities

January 30, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By Jonathan Scott

This month, I had the honour of being elected chair of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA). As I step into this new role, I’ve been reflecting on why conservation authorities matter so deeply to our communities, our province and our country.

What could be more Canadian than protecting our lakes, rivers, forests and wetlands? Conservation authorities like NVCA are res ponsible for stewarding these natural resources and preserving them for future generations. But this work isn’t just about environmental responsibility—it’s also about safeguarding our local economy. 

In regions like ours, where agriculture and tourism thrive, conservation is as much about protecting livelihoods as it is about protecting nature. Our farmers depend on healthy ecosystems to sustain some of the best agricultural land in Ontario. Likewise, the beauty of our lakes and forests draws tourists, hunters and anglers from far and wide, fueling local businesses. Without clean water, thriving fish stocks or healthy wetlands, these economic drivers would suffer.  

The work of conservation authorities is vital, but it’s not always visible. Behind the scenes, our teams are planting trees, restoring creeks and riverbeds, and implementing nature-based solutions to tackle the impacts of climate change. These solutions—such as wetland restoration to reduce flooding or reforestation to capture carbon emissions—are among the most effective tools we have to address the environmental challenges of our time.  

I’ve been passionate about the environment since high school, working on policy at both the provincial and federal levels and supporting environmental NGOs in my professional life. As a Councillor in Bradford West Gwillimbury, I’ve chaired our award-winning Green Initiatives Advisory Committee, where we’ve tackled everything from water conservation to energy retrofitting older buildings, expanding recycling programs, and advocating for the right to repair electronics and agricultural equipment. These initiatives are rooted in a simple principle: protecting the environment is both the right thing to do and the smart thing to do. 

But conservation authorities aren’t just about policy and projects—they’re also about people. At NVCA, I’ve seen the dedication of our staff firsthand. Their work to plant thousands of trees, protect water quality and restore natural habitats is extraordinary. At the same time, we know that serving the public is at the heart of our mission. Residents, farmers and businesses deserve clear, efficient and fair processes when it comes to planning and permitting. Time is money, and we have to strike a balance between thorough reviews and expeditious customer service.

That’s why, as chair, I’m committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement at NVCA. This means responding quickly to enquiries, streamlining development approvals and ensuring consistent application of standards. It also means celebrating and communicating our successes. Conservation authorities do incredible work, and we need to share those stories to build trust and confidence in our role. 

Conservation authorities like NVCA represent a uniquely Canadian way of protecting what matters: the natural beauty and resources that define our communities. This work isn’t just about today—it’s about ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. 

As I begin this new chapter, I’m optimistic about what lies ahead. With the support of our dedicated staff, board, municipal partners and the wider community, I’m confident we can continue making a difference—protecting our environment, strengthening our economy and serving the people who call this region home. 

Jonathan Scott is Chair of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority and a Councillor in Bradford West Gwillimbury 

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