On October 31st, the Ontario Minister of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MECP) announced proposed changes to the Conservation Authorities Act that would alter the boundaries and governance of Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities.
The proposed amendments include the establishment of a new provincial, board-governed agency — the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA). The OPCA would provide leadership, governance, and strategic direction to Conservation Authorities across Ontario. Its initial mandate would focus on province-wide streamlining of the permit process for homeowners and developers, and coordinating the regional consolidation of Conservation Authorities.
The Province will consult on the proposed consolidations and criteria for new regional boundaries through a 45-day Environmental Registry of Ontario policy proposal posting.
Founded in 1961, the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) delivers programs and services that protect people and property from flooding and erosion, safeguard water quality, and support healthy and resilient watersheds. During the provincial review, all SCRCA services will continue uninterrupted, including permitting under Ontario Regulation 41/24, flood forecasting and warning, drinking water source protection, environmental stewardship and restoration, and conservation area operations.
“It remains business as usual,” said Ken Philips, General Manager of the SCRCA. “Our work to protect public safety, water quality, and local watershed health is ongoing. We are committed to working with our member municipalities, Indigenous communities, and the Province throughout the consultation process.”
The proposed amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act are expected to be released in the coming weeks, with full implementation of the new framework anticipated in late 2026 or 2027.
