New Conservation Authority Watershed Report Cards reveal stressed conditions in our watersheds
NEWMARKET (March 22, 2018) - A second set of Conservation Authority Watershed Report Cards has begun to roll out today and the grades indicate that many of Ontario’s watersheds – particularly those in southern, more urban areas – are stressed.

Conservation Authority Watershed Report Cards show an average grade of 'C' for surface water quality and 'C' for forest conditions. Groundwater appears to be in better shape, however it is much more difficult to assess on a watershed-wide basis. 

The first set of Conservation Authority Watershed Report Cards was released in 2013 and showed similar results. The main challenges to healthy watersheds continue to be the impacts of urbanization and climate change. 

“March 22 is World Water Day and one of the reasons we celebrate it is to bring attention to how important it is to protect our lakes, rivers, streams and groundwater. We rely on them as sources for drinking water, in addition to all kinds of other uses,” said Kim Gavine, General Manager of Conservation Ontario. READ MORE
WHY ARE WE REPORTING
Watershed report cards are a successful way to deliver a vast amount of technical information in a readily understandable and interesting way. They help to:
  • Benchmark conditions
  • Measure environmental change
  • Identify issues and target watershed programs 
  • Track progress of actions
  • Inform decision-makers and others
WHAT ARE CONSERVATION AUTHORITIES DOING TO HELP
Through watershed plans, Conservation Authorities and their partners can develop and implement stewardship initiatives such as rural water quality programs, tree and shrub planting, agricultural best management practices, green infrastructure, backyard improvements, and wildlife habitat protection and restoration. READ MORE
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