Tim Clark, Stuart Marwick, and Claire Malcolmson
The Lake Simcoe Protection Plan is currently under mandatory review by the Province. As a result, the IDA is working with our partners to champion Lake Simcoe. It is key that we keep the current level of protection in the plan or, better yet, it increases.
Raising Awareness for MPPs
It is important that the MPPs become aware of the Plan’s role in maintaining a healthy Lake Simcoe. So, to draw attention to these pressures, Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition organized an event at Queens’ Park. It took place on Tuesday November 26th.
IDA directors Stuart Marwick, Tim Clark and Ross Pityk drove to Toronto. They were able to speak with 14 MPPs, staff and members of the public.
We would also, like to acknowledge that MPP for Barrie-Innisfil Andrea Khanjian for helping this event to take place.
Key Priorities for Lake Simcoe
Claire Malcolmson, Executive Director of the Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition outlined key priorities:
- keeping phosphorus levels from increasing (especially with the addition of any new sewage treatment plants.
- maintain a minimum of 40% high-quality natural coverage around Lake Simcoe,
- linkages between these patches of natural cover are well-protected by policy
Young Advocates
A group of students called the “Change Makers” from Shanty Bay Elementary School prepared art exhibits reflecting their concerns about the lake.
Grade six student Nari Hwang made an impassioned speech about the “Beautiful Water,” or Ouentironk, the Huron name for Lake Simcoe. She emphasized that Lake Simcoe needs our help. Especially since, it is an important source of drinking water for 450 000 people and recreation contributes $200 million to our local economy.
Question Period
At the beginning of Question Period, MPP Andrea Khanjian acknowledged both the individuals and groups at today’s event. The IDA received honourable mention.
This was a highly successful event, bringing to light many concerns that the IDA has been championing for a healthier Lake Simcoe.
Click this link to access the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan