Chairs of the Grand River, Catfish Creek, Kettle Creek, and Long Point Region conservation authorities issue joint statement
In accordance with recent changes to the Conservation Authorities Act, Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities will amalgamate into nine regional conservation authorities on February 1, 2027.
Locally, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA), Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA), Kettle Creek Conservation Authority (KCCA), and Long Point Region Conservation Authority (LPRCA) will amalgamate to form the Eastern Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority (ELERCA).
As the transition process begins, the Chairs of the GRCA, CCA, KCCA, and LPRCA have issued a joint statement affirming their shared commitment to conducting this process with openness, transparency, and accountability. To support this commitment, each Board has adopted the “Guiding Principles of Transition”, which will help inform the decision-making process throughout the amalgamation. While not listed in order of priority, all principles are considered essential to ensuring a successful and responsible transition.
The newly established Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA) will oversee the transition and is in the process of appointing a Project Executive to chair a transition committee. The transition committee will consist of the General Manager/CAO and one elected board member from each of the amalgamating conservation authorities. The transition committee is expected to convene in late summer, 2026.
For the GRCA, there are no immediate changes to governance structure, programs, services, or day-to-day operations. Grand River watershed residents are encouraged to stay informed as the transition progresses by visiting the GRCA’s website, where additional information will be posted as it becomes available.
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Media Contacts:
Serena Catania, GRCA Supervisor of Communications and Marketing
Phone 519-621-2763 x2240 | Email scatania@grandriver.ca
Lisa Stocco, GRCA Director of Strategic Communications
Phone 519-621-2763 x2316 | Email lstocco@grandriver.ca