In this video, Dr. Anne Bell and Sarah Hasenack introduce viewers to Ontario Nature’s report, Wetland Offsetting Policies for Local Planning Authorities: A Review of Wise Practices in Ontario.

With the possibility of a provincial offsetting policy for natural heritage on the horizon, local planning authorities may soon need to develop policies to guide implementation of this controversial practice – often referred to as compensation – within their communities. Understanding the limited situations in which offsetting might be appropriate and the policy measures needed to minimize the risks associated with this practice will be critical to maintaining the many benefits wetlands provide.

Developed in response to the increasing frequency of offsetting projects and ongoing changes to Ontario’s natural heritage policy regime, the report provides a framework, key information and policy examples for developing and assessing offsetting policies to help secure the best possible outcomes for wetlands and the communities that depend on them.

For more information about Ontario Nature’s wetlands campaign, please visit our Wetlands Campaign page: https://ontarionature.org/campaigns/w.... To explore past Ontario Nature reports about offsetting, among myriad other valuable resources, please visit https://ontarionature.org/about/resou....