Draft Regional Natural Heritage System map available for comment

Whitby, Ontario – Based on consultation with and data from the province, area municipalities and conservation authorities, the Region of Durham has developed a map identifying the draft Regional Natural Heritage System (NHS) and is inviting the public and agencies to comment. This map is a key component of Envision Durham, which is the Municipal Comprehensive Review of the Regional Official Plan.

Why: Identification of an NHS is required for the Regional Official Plan to be consistent with provincial policy and to conform with provincial plans such as the Growth Plan, the Greenbelt Plan, and the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP).

An NHS, which includes key natural features and areas, has a significant environmental, social and economic role in the region. NHS protection is necessary to maintain biological and geological diversity, natural functions, viable populations of indigenous species, and ecosystems.

These systems can include natural heritage features and areas, federal and provincial parks and conservation reserves, lands that have been restored or have the potential to be restored to a natural state, areas that support hydrologic functions, and working landscapes that enable ecological functions to continue.

When: The map identifying the draft Regional NHS is available as of March 1, and input on the draft is requested by May 2, 2022.

Where: To provide input, use the interactive map available at durham.ca/EnvisionDurham, or submit comments by emailing EnvisionDurham@durham.ca.

Note: As Council’s core planning document, the Regional Official Plan guides Regional decision-making on long-term growth and development.

Envision Durham is an opportunity to deliver a new, forward-looking official plan that will guide growth and change in Durham in the years ahead – providing the blueprint for Durham to become known as the place to live, learn and thrive by 2051.

To learn more about Envision Durham, visit durham.ca/EnvisionDurham.

– 30 –

For media inquiries, contact Corporate Communications.