CATFISH CREEK CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
8079 Springwater Road, RR# 5, Aylmer, Ontario N5H 2R4
PHONE: (519) 773-9037 • FAX: 519-765-1489
E-mail: [email protected] • www.catfishcreek.ca
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CCCA Continues Focus on Watershed Health During Province’s Conservation Authority Review
The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA) acknowledges the October 31, 2025 announcement from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks regarding its intent to introduce amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act to establish the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA).
According to the Province, the proposed OPCA will provide centralized leadership, governance, and strategic direction to Ontario’s 36 Conservation Authorities. The Province has also indicated it will begin consultation on proposed regional boundary consolidations of Conservation Authorities, engaging municipalities, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders. This consultation will include a 45-day Environmental Registry of Ontario posting period for public review and comment.
At this time, CCCA understands that these are proposals only, and that operations will continue without disruption. The Province has indicated that any proposed changes would not be implemented until after the 2026 municipal elections.
“The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority remains focused on our ongoing work to protect public safety, water quality, and watershed health,” said Dusty Underhill, General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer of the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority. “It’s business as usual for our staff and our community partners. We appreciate the opportunity to engage with the Province during the consultation process and will continue to provide expertise and feedback to help shape an effective, locally responsive framework for watershed management in Ontario.”
CCCA will work closely with Conservation Ontario, member municipalities, and other Conservation Authorities to review the Province’s proposal and provide coordinated input during the consultation period. The Authority remains committed to the principles of local watershed management and to the continued delivery of programs and services that protect people, property, and ecosystems, while ensuring growth remains both rapid and resilient, achieving efficient regulatory processes while also maintaining essential environmental safeguards.
“Our goal is to balance Ontario’s urgent housing needs with the equally important task of protecting our watershed and adapting to a changing climate,” said Dusty Underhill. “We remain dedicated to local collaboration and service excellence.”
The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority will continue to monitor information from the Province as the consultation process unfolds and will keep the public, partners and stakeholders informed of any updates or next steps.
##
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dusty Underhill
General Manager / Secretary-Treasurer
T: 519-773-9037