On behalf of Fieldgate…

On behalf of Fieldgate Developments, these comments are to act as support and request for further clarification regarding the proposed regulatory changes to improve implementation of the Endangered Species Act, 2007.

We are supportive of the changes and believe they will increase certainty and streamline processes but continue to delivery protections on areas that have a high likelihood of supporting species-at-risk.

Regarding the regulatory amendments regarding habitat protections for Redside Dace, it is requested that further amendments be considered by MECP to:

1. Outline the proposed methodology to determine presence/absence of Redside Dace in a watercourse within the previous 10 years.
2. Confirm existing MECP data such as fish community investigations can be used or made available to the public. Although reducing from 20 to 10 years is a benefit, this is a substantial burden of proof that, if borne by the public, could potentially take a substantial amount of time and financial resources to complete.

We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments on ERO 019-8016 and are available to discuss the comments above and future amendments to the Endangered Species Act with Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks staff at their convenience.