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2001 Report of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development

BOOKMARK

LINK: http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/osh_20020131_e_23335.html

Description

The report sets out three broad areas of federal activity-the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River basin, managing for sustainable development, and climate change and energy efficiency. The Report recognizes wetlands as key sources of life. Section 5.3 of the audit, focusing on Conserving Wetlands, asked: Does the federal government know to what extent it is meeting its goals and objectives for wetlands conservation in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River basin? Does the federal government have enough information to make sound decisions about wetlands activities? The Report concludes:

"Since the basin was first settled, many wetlands have been lost or degraded. In response, the federal government has participated in restoring and protecting wetlands. While these activities are encouraging, there is not enough information on the current status of wetlands to say whether it is improving or getting worse. Environment Canada and Fisheries and Oceans are involved in efforts to improve the information on wetlands in both the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River. There is no single federal department or agency formally responsible for wetlands. Designating a lead department or agency would strengthen accountability for monitoring, evaluating, and reporting federal action on wetlands."

Additional Information:

Regions: Ontario, Quebec, Canada

Submitted by: WetlandNetwork