We received deeply disappointing news on May 28, 2015 that has galvanized us in the continued fight to protect Ontario’s wild species. Ontario’s Divisional Court upheld a provincial regulation that exempts major industries from the protection of the Endangered Species Act and allows them to kill species at-risk and destroy their habitat.
As Ontario Nature members and supporters, the protection of Ontario’s endangered species is very dear to your hearts. We want you to know that we are not about to give up. We are considering all of our options, including an appeal of the court’s decision.
We will continue to fight for the protection and recovery of species at risk in Ontario in many ways, including the following:
Promoting municipal and regional natural heritage systems planning through the requirements of the Provincial Policy Statement and the 2015 coordinated review of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, Greenbelt Plan, Niagara Escarpment Plan and Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
Working with farmers through the ALUS Program to advance our shared concern for grassland species at risk, like the bobolink.
Working with Ontario Nature’s Youth Council to protect pollinators – several of which are at risk – and calling for bans and significant restrictions on toxic pesticides, such as neonicotinoids.
Advocating for new protected areas and sustainable management of the boreal forest, home to the threatened woodland caribou and many other species at risk.
With the help of Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas volunteers, compiling much-needed data on endangered reptiles and amphibians in order to inform conservation and recovery plans.
To learn more about the Ontario Divisional Court decision and how you can help, please visit our website or call our member relations coordinator at 1-800-440-2366 ext. 233.
Ontario Nature's former executive director, Caroline Schultz led Ontario Nature’s programs and operations from 2005 to 2025. Previously she served as conservation director for the Canadian Nature Federation for 10 years, leading the organization’s national advocacy, science and stewardship programs.
One Reply to “A Major Blow for Endangered Species”
The creeping destruction of the natural world is the biggest threat to health and life that we face. Keep the struggle to protect nature alive and on the front page.
To help advance our objectives related to Bill 5, Ontario Nature is partnering with Legal Advocates for Nature’s Defence (LAND). An environmental law non-profit, LAND advances access to justice in northern Ontario to protect nature and Indigenous rights. Ontario Nature is providing financial and in-kind advocacy support to LAND to advance legal challenges by Indigenous rights holders to Bill 5. Ontario Nature and LAND will also collaborate on events, and amplifying Bill 5 opposition and Indigenous voices.
The creeping destruction of the natural world is the biggest threat to health and life that we face. Keep the struggle to protect nature alive and on the front page.