Exploring a partnership initiative for Western Lake Ontario

Session: Poster session

Shari Dahmer, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, [email protected]
Gary Bowen, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, [email protected]
Kate Hayes, Credit Valley Conservation Authority, [email protected]

Abstract

Land use planning decisions in communities around Western Lake Ontario collectively affect the health of our watersheds and the nearshore of Lake Ontario. There is currently a disconnect between efforts on the land and improvements in the health of Lake Ontario. By incorporating the health of the lake into decision making processes, we can efficiently leverage local action for regional environmental benefit. From 2016 to 2018 Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) co-hosted a series of workshops that brought together decision makers from multiple levels of government. Participants explored the viability and level of enthusiasm for an initiative that would allow partner organizations to maximize the collective impact of policies, research, and implementation measures on the health of our watersheds and the nearshore of Western Lake Ontario. We will discuss outcomes to date and recommendations for next steps to formalize a partnership for the Western Lake Ontario Land to Lake Initiative.

1. Keyword
Lake Ontario