Scugog Councillor Robert Rock acclaimed Chair of Kawartha Conservation

FEBRUARY 23, 2023 – Township of Scugog Ward 3 Councillor, Robert Rock was acclaimed Chair of the Kawartha Conservation Board of Directors during the first meeting of 2023 on Thursday afternoon, February 23.

City of Kawartha Lakes Ward 2 Councillor, Pat Warren was nominated, and subsequently acclaimed as vice-chair of the Kawartha Conservation Board of Directors.

Joining Councillor’s Rock and Warren, on the Kawartha Conservation Board of Directors for 2023 is Lloyd Rang (Municipality of Clarington), Harold Wright (Township of Scugog), Tracy Richardson (City of Kawartha Lakes), Eric Smeaton (City of Kawartha Lakes), Peter Franzen (Municipality of Trent Lakes), Gerry Byrne (Township of Cavan Monaghan), and Cria Pettingill (Township of Brock), and Jeff Forbes (Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation).

“I’m very excited to take on this role,” said returning Board member and newly acclaimed Chair Rock. “I think there is a bit of a rocky road ahead, and I’m excited to be the Chair during this, slightly tumultuous time. I am looking forward to the challenges ahead and all of us as a group working together to find new paths, as necessary, as laws potentially continue to change.”

Vice-chair Warren echoed Chair Rock’s comments regarding challenges for conservation authorities, boards, and municipalities as a result of recently enacted provincial legislation.

“I’m looking forward to being Vice Chair,” Vice-Chair Warren commented. “As the Chair said, we are in somewhat tumultuous times, and I’m hoping it evolves differently going forward.

“I am looking forward to working with everyone as we move forward, and celebrating the great work Kawartha Conservation and its staff have, and continue to do.

Kawartha Conservation is an essential organization that protects and manages the Kawartha watershed. This region is a valuable natural resource and provides essential services to surrounding communities.

Committed to protecting private and public property from natural hazards like flooding and erosion, Kawartha Conservation also provides advice on the appropriate use of land, issuing permits for construction and development, and implementing strategies to mitigate risks.

Kawartha Conservation also addresses the impacts of climate change on the region, working on initiatives to reduce improve resilience to extreme weather events, and promote sustainable land use practices that support biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Kawartha Conservation plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and sustainability of the Kawartha watershed. By supporting people, property, and watershed health, they ensure that the region remains a thriving and vibrant place for generations to come.