Frequently Asked Questions
Objectives established by the authority that will inform the authority’s decision-making related to the lands it owns and controls (conservation areas).
Identification of the mandatory and non-mandatory programs and services provided on land owned and controlled by the Conservation Authority.
An assessment of how the lands owned and controlled by the Conservation Authority may enlarge and enhance any natural heritage located within the Authority’s area of jurisdiction and integrate with other provincially or municipally owned lands and trails within the Authority’s area of jurisdiction.
The establishment of land-use categories for the purpose of classifying lands in the Land Inventory (coming soon).
A period to review and update the Conservation Area Strategy.
- Invasive species management plan
- Permitted uses for individual conservation areas
- Programs and services for individual conservation areas
- Access points, gates, parking lots
- Restoration plans
- Climate action plan
- Trail management/standards plan
- Wayfinding/signage plan
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Visit conservation areas
Join us at events like the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival
Long Beach: 905.899.3462
Chippawa Creek: 905.386.6387
Binbrook: 905.692.3228
Ball’s Falls: 905.788.3135
All other parks: 905.788.3131
What is a Conservation Area Strategy?
A Conservation Area Strategy is a high-level document that will guide the management and operation of NPCA conservation areas.
All conservation authorities in Ontario must complete this document on or before December 31, 2024, and meet the requirements outlined in O. Reg. 686/21 Sec. 10.
This includes any interests in land that the Conservation Authority has registered on title that must meet the following requirements:
Why is NPCA developing a Conservation Area Strategy?
The NPCA is developing a Conservation Area Strategy to identify the land-use categories and guide the types of programs and services on lands owned and managed by NPCA.
This strategy will outline funding sources for those programs and services and identify any gaps, challenges, or future needs to ensure they are captured as appropriate. The Conservation Area Strategy will outline goals and objectives to guide conservation efforts on NPCA conservation areas. These goals are consistent with NPCA’s Strategic Plan 2021-2031. The Conservation Area Strategy will also include when and how the strategy will be reviewed and updated.
A Conservation Area Strategy is a mandated deliverable for each conservation authority in Ontario, as directed through the Conservation Authorities Act.
What is not included as part of a Conservation Area Strategy?
It should be noted that while the Conservation Area Strategy is an over-arching and guiding document that covers all conservation areas and lands owned and managed by NPCA, some details and plans will not be included as part of the Conservation Area Strategy. These will instead be discussed and included in management or master plans for each conservation area, as well as other strategic level documents that will guide the use and management of NPCA conservation areas.
Examples of items or topics that will not be addressed in the Conservation Area Strategy:
How does this work relate to other NPCA plans and strategies?
The Conservation Area Strategy will identify goals and objectives specific to current and future NPCA conservation areas and will be a guiding document for the management, conservation, and improvement of those properties.
From the Conservation Area Strategy, we will use the overarching goals and objectives to develop individual management plans for all NPCA conservation areas and each plan will have its own engagement plan.
How will the survey responses be used?
We value the feedback and input provided by members of the community who take time to participate in this process.
NPCA is committed to reviewing this feedback and including it, as appropriate, in the development of the Conservation Area Strategy. Additionally, we are committed to future engagement with the public through the implementation of the Conservation Area Strategy, and the development of individual management plans for NPCA conservation areas.
Your participation is vital to the success of NPCA’s Conservation Area Strategy! By understanding how visitors engage with Conservation Areas and the programs and services we offer, we can make informed decisions to enhance the visitor experience, boost conservation efforts, and ensure these natural spaces remain vibrant and sustainable for future generations.
Please note that while we appreciate all feedback on this strategy, we are limited to implementing actions that fall within our mandate. As such, we will read and respond to all comments and suggestions but may not be able to act on them all.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The Conservation Area Strategy must be finalized and approved by NPCA’s Board of Directors by December 31, 2024, in accordance with Provincial regulation. However, the implementation of the strategy will continue through several years.
Which conservation areas are the focus of the Conservation Area Strategy?
The Conservation Area Strategy will apply to all conservation areas and lands owned and managed by NPCA. Following this, there will be individual management plans for NPCA properties on a priority basis.
What is the difference between conservation areas, flagship parks, and conservation lands?
Generally, conservation areas are the properties that the public are invited to visit, and may have infrastructure on them such as trails, signage, and parking lots.
Conservation lands are the properties that are not publicly available, and do not have any amenities or infrastructure to support visitation. These lands are held in public trust for nature preservation/natural heritage protection, or due to the nature of the ecosystem (hazard lands like wetlands, floodplains) that make them difficult or dangerous to access.
Flagship Parks are the paid access conservation areas, including Ball’s Falls, Long Beach, Chippawa Creek, Binbrook, and Rockway that are most visited/accessed by the public and may include advanced services and programs like adventure camps, overnight and seasonal camping, educational programs, and more.
What are the next steps after the Conservation Area Strategy is finalized?
The Conservation Area Strategy is the first step that will set the overall vision, goals and land-use categories for all NPCA conservation areas. The next step will be to develop management plans for individual conservation areas on a priority basis over the next several years that will provide a more detailed look at each conservation area. Management plans outline how the goals, objectives, and actions will be achieved through capital investment, restoration efforts, invasive species management, and trail management.
How can I stay informed about future engagement opportunities for NPCA conservation areas (e.g. Management Plans, volunteering, etc.)?
Who should I contact if I have further questions regarding this Strategy?
Kerry Royer, Conservation Area Land Planning, Specialist kroyer@npca.ca 905-788-3138 x234
Who should I contact if I have general questions about the NPCA?
Main office during business hours: 905-788-3135 (office hours are Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) or info@npca.ca
Who should I contact if I have a concern about a specific conservation area?
Please call during regular business hours or email us at info@npca.ca
If there is an emergency, please call 905-788-3135, and press 2.