On October 31, 2025, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) announced its plans to establish the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency to provide centralized governance, strategic direction and oversight of Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities. Through this announcement, the Ontario Government also confirmed the vital role that Conservation Authorities play in protecting our communities and managing our watersheds. We understand that the province will introduce amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act to establish the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency and further consult on proposed boundaries for the regional consolidation of Conservation Authorities.
NPCA acknowledges the importance of provincial leadership in aligning priorities such as housing, infrastructure, the economy, and climate resilience. We recognize that the proposed changes are intended to enhance efficiency, and support consistent, high-quality service delivery across Ontario. Conservation Authorities remain one of Ontario's best tools for balancing the province's urgent housing needs with the equally urgent imperative of watershed protection and climate resilience. We are committed to being part of the solution and will work to achieve these goals for an effective balance between watershed protection and Ontario’s housing goals.
NPCA looks forward to participating in meaningful consultations and providing constructive input to ensure that any future framework continues to address the unique needs of our watersheds. In recent years, we have focused on improving planning and permitting policies, enhancing procedures, and modernizing operations, including investments in software and data management. We remain dedicated to delivering programs and services for the health and well-being of our watersheds and communities.
At NPCA, we continue to operate as usual, delivering programs and services without disruption, including commitments under agreements with our member municipalities and other partners. NPCA will continue to ensure continuity of front‑line services and maintain the high standards our communities rely on.
Consultation on the proposed boundaries for the regional watershed-based consolidation of Conservation Authorities will include a 45-day policy proposal notice on the Environmental Registry of Ontario, providing an opportunity for Conservation Authorities, municipalities, Indigenous communities, interested parties, and residents to review and comment on the proposed changes. Legislative and regulatory amendments are anticipated in 2026, with any governance and structure changes expected to take effect following the 2026 municipal elections.
Media inquiries to be directed to:
Erika Navarro
Supervisor, Communications & PR
Mobile: 905-650-4027
enavarro@npca.ca
For more information about NPCA, visit www.npca.ca.
Follow on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for more updates.