Province celebrates the importance of existing urban river valleys in the Greenbelt
MPP Daisy Wai, Richmond Hill, joined Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation, and Joe DiPaola, Acting Mayor, City of Richmond Hill and Board Member of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, On July 20, 2021, to unveil a new sign recognizing the Don River as a protected urban river valley within the Greenbelt.
The Don River is one of 21 urban river valleys that connect the Greenbelt to the Great Lakes, inland lakes and areas beyond. These are the valleys of rivers that pass through cities or towns and act as urban gateways to the Greenbelt.
“We are incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such a beautiful environment that provides numerous opportunities for us to explore nature and engage with our important ecosystems,” said MPP Daisy Wai. “Today’s unveiling is an occasion for us to celebrate the Greenbelt and look forward to ways in which we can further conserve these types of natural spaces.”
The government of Ontario is in the process of undertaking what could be the largest expansion of the Greenbelt since its creation in 2005. The Greenbelt protects environmental, groundwater, and agricultural resources.
“The Ford government understand that there needs to be a balanced approach to managing growth while protecting the natural environment for future generations,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “That is why we are adding urban river valleys to the Greenbelt and also enhancing and protecting two acres of land for every single acre where a Minister’s Zoning Order has or will be issued.”
