On October 31, Ontario’s Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks announced plans to amend the Conservation Authorities Act, introducing major changes to the structure and governance of Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities.
A key part of the proposal is the creation of a new province-wide organization — the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA). This board-governed agency would provide leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for all Conservation Authorities. Its initial priorities include streamlining the permitting process for homeowners and developers, as well as coordinating the regional consolidation of existing Conservation Authorities.
The Province will seek public feedback through a 45-day consultation period on the Environmental Registry of Ontario, focusing on proposed regional boundaries and consolidation criteria.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA), established in 1961, will continue to operate as usual throughout this review. All current programs and services — including permitting under Ontario Regulation 41/24, flood forecasting and warning, source water protection, environmental restoration, and conservation area management — will remain in place.
The proposed legislative amendments are expected to be released in the coming weeks, with the new governance framework anticipated to take effect in late 2026 or 2027.
Written by: C. Soares