Conservation Ontario 2025 Annual Report
Message from the Chair and General Manager
Powered by Purpose
At the core of Ontario’s conservation system are shared values that guide everything we do: responsibility to communities, stewardship of land and water, respect for local knowledge, cooperation, and accountability in public service. In 2025, these values shaped how conservation authorities responded to a changing environmental and policy landscape.
Across the province, conservation authorities remained focused on protecting people, property, and natural systems, while supporting healthy watersheds that underpin long term environmental and economic well-being. With extreme wet and dry weather, this work is more important than ever. Science based decision making and local expertise continue to guide how we manage risk and support communities.
A key priority this year has been finding the right balance between strong environmental protection and efficient, predictable approvals. Working closely with municipalities and the development community, we are advancing partnerships that improve clarity, reduce delays, and support responsible growth. By identifying best practices and leveraging new technologies, we can streamline processes without compromising safety or environmental standards.
This work reflects a broader commitment to building resilient and vibrant communities. Well planned development and watershed protection must go hand in hand, particularly as we respond to increasing climate pressures.
The year also reinforced the importance of local decision making and working together. Conservation Ontario continues to advocate for our network, our collective mandate under the Conservation Authorities Act, and ensuring the system remains transparent, accountable, and responsive.
Our engagement on proposed regional consolidation and boundary changes reflected a clear, values-driven message: modernization must enhance—not diminish—local expertise, meaningful engagement, and sound governance.
Conservation authorities deliver services fundamental to public safety, including flood and erosion control, natural hazard management, development permitting, and water monitoring. These are not only technical responsibilities, they are essential to protecting communities now and in the future.
Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on practical solutions that balance protection with progress. Through strong partnerships, clear processes, and a commitment to innovation, Conservation Authorities will remain trusted, effective, and ready to meet future challenges.
Conservation Authorities showcase what is possible when we work together with common purpose for the good of watersheds in Ontario.
We thank our members, partners, and staff for your leadership and commitment throughout 2025.
Dave Barton
Chair, Conservation Ontario
Angela Coleman
General Manager, Conservation Ontario