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The plan proposes to open up 46 million hectares of crown land to industrial development by way of long term leases, while setting aside a mere 8.2% of the area for wilderness conservation.
A number of groups are actively lobbying to increase this protected area to at least 15-20%. Most recently, on Dec. 2, the Partnership for Public Lands presented a statement signed by 2252 scientists demanding that the Progressive Conservative government drop its proposals, and increase the protected area to 20%.
Time is running out! By the end of December, the Ontario government will determine which of the 242 Lands for Life recommendations will become policy. This policy will determine how Crown Lands, which cover 87% of the province will be used for generations to come.
Please act now! Email or fax a letter to Premier Mike Harris, or Minister of Northern Development Chris Hodgson expressing your opposition to the Lands for Life proposal. Their contact information is listed here, including an easy direct email link to the Premier.
For more information, as well as sample letters, please follow the links listed below:
The Partnership for Public Lands - The World Wildlife Fund, Federation of Ontario Naturalists, and the Wildlands League joint effort to fight Lands For Life
WWF: Ontario’s Wilderness at Risk --- Your Letters Needed Today! (includes sample letter)
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) - Lands for Life - Learn How You Can Help
Natural Hemphasis' letter to Mike Harris