Archived Letter - 1248

Dear Editor,
This letter relates to an article published recently relating to the requirement by the MOECC that all cottagers at Belwood and Conestoga Lakes require environmental compliance approval. It is worthwhile knowing that the MOECC has never scientifically assessed  the ambient water quality conditions. They have failed to show that the water quality of these lakes does not meet their water quality objectives. It is also worthwhile knowing that fly fishing downstream of the Shand Dam is currently one of the big draws to the area with many fish species attracting many Canadian and American visitors. This has to be the ultimate indicator of water quality.
Based on a loophole in our legislation with regard to land parcelling, the MOECC intends to extract over 1/2 million dollars from cottage owners who will further be penalized another 1/2 million dollars for septic tank inspection by an engineer of their choice. I am embarrassed by the decision making process of the MOECC management. It is less than thoughtful. I sincerely hope that this management style is not the norm when addressing day to day operational issues and long range strategic planning.

J H Lund