To: Watershed News Media, Municipalities

May 30, 2006

An updated regulation that prevents loss of life and property due to flooding and unstable soil has been in effect since May 4 within the jurisdiction of the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority.

"This regulation protects people and property from these hazards and conserves the integrity of the natural environment," explains CRCA General Manager Steve Knechtel.

Conservation authorities work with municipalities to protect development from hazards such as flooding and unstable soils and to conserve environmentally sensitive areas.

"Anyone planning development such as filling, building a house or dock, dredging, installing culverts or shore protection and ditching along watercourses, lake shorelines, wetlands, valleys and swamps will require a permit from the conservation authority," says Mr. Knechtel.

The regulation, known formally as Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses, ensures public safety, says Mr. Knechtel.

For more information call:

Steve Knechtel, General Manager (613) 546-4228 ext. 239

Holly Evans, Environmental Technician (613) 546-4228, ext. 244