Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority have elected a new chair and vice-chair for 2024.
At the annual general meeting, the board of directors elects a chair and a vice-chair, and after five and three years respectively in their positions, chair Wayne Emmerson, chairman and CEO of the Regional Municipality of York, and vice-chair Bradford Councillor Peter Ferragine both stepped aside, according to a news release.
Barrie Councillor Clare Riepma was elected chair, and Oro-Medonte Mayor Randy Greenlaw was elected vice-chair.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed chairing this board,” Emmerson said. “I always knew the conservation authority did great work, but as the chair, I had the opportunity to see firsthand the tremendous knowledge, skill and determination these folks apply to preserving and improving the health of the lake and the watershed. We’re privileged to have an organization like this working behind the scenes.”
Ferragine also thanked the board and staff, saying, “I have been a long-standing member of this board and as vice-chair over the last three years, I’ve had the opportunity to get more involved and lend my support for the significant conservation and restoration work that the team at the conservation authority are continuously implementing. I’m proud to continue on the board, and to offer up my experience and counsel to the new chair and vice-chair.”
Also at the meeting Dr. Brian Ginn presented on the health of Lake Simcoe, emphasizing the importance of taking a holistic view and considering the many indicators of lake health.
“Much like when we go to the doctor, there are many indicators, such as blood pressure, vitamin and mineral levels, weight, and much more that are factored into being given a clean bill of health. Lake Simcoe is no different,” he said. “Lake health can’t just be determined based on phosphorus levels, or any other one indicator. We need to continue to measure and monitor many factors, and then adapt our management decisions based on our findings.”
LSRCA CAO Rob Baldwin highlighted some of the significant work completed in 2023 to transition and implement changes made to the Conservation Authorities Act. He also introduced a year-in-review video compilation, highlighting noteworthy achievements.
To view the 2023 year-in-review video the metrics and infographic, visit the website.
The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority’s mission is to collaborate to protect and restore the Lake Simcoe watershed with innovative research, policy, and action.
