Pauline Kerr

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

pkerr@midwesternnewspapers.com

FORMOSA – Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority’s 75th anniversary celebration was marked with a major announcement on July 29.

SVCA announced Formosa has become more than its administrative centre; it’s now the location of the newest conservation area in the Saugeen watershed, a 24-acre piece of land graced by a pergola and hiking trail on the scenic, hilly land north of the centre. According to a written statement from the SVCA, “This new conservation area was established as a tribute to 75 years of protecting people, property, and the environment, and reflects SVCA’s enduring commitment to community and conservation partnerships.”

The site has been planted with native species including cranberry bushes, sumac, white pine and white spruce. Visitors are advised that the trails include uneven terrain; there are no facilities on site.

The official ribbon cutting for the area was the highlight of events on July 29. Among the approximately 100 guests who attended were MP Ben Lobb and MPP Lisa Thompson, municipal leaders, representatives from Conservation Ontario and other conservation authorities, and SVCA staff and board members past and present.

Erik Downing, SVCA general manager, commented, “We are excited to celebrate 75 years of conservation by opening the Formosa Conservation Area to the public. It reflects our ongoing mandate to protect natural spaces while encouraging responsible public access and recreation.” 

Downing and board chair Tom Hutchinson welcomed guests, who first gathered in the board room to look at displays and enjoy refreshments, before heading outside for the ribbon cutting. 

Downing provided a brief outline of the SVCA’s history, saying, “In 1950, conservation authorities were a new idea,” based on geography, not political lines. “CAs [Conservation Authorities] were charged with protecting the environment,” he said. “They were the ‘boots on the ground’ when rivers rose.”

He noted the dikes in Walkerton were among the first accomplishments of the new SVCA.

Today, the mandate has extended to include protecting drinking water, a key task in light of the water tragedy in Walkerton 25 years ago.

He commented that CAs face more challenges today than in the past, but there’s also “more collaboration and dedication” that will stand them in good stead as they carry forward their legacy. “Here’s to the next 75 years,” he said in conclusion.

Hutchinson said the event was “more than a milestone;” it was a celebration of leadership that will ensure the SVCA’s work remains relevant. 

Certificates presented

He commented on the progress made over the past 75 years, and said, “Let’s just keep it going!”

Ben Lobb, member of parliament for Huron-Bruce, congratulated the SVCA on 75 years, and presented Downing with a certificate to mark the milestone. Lobb commented that conservation authorities “do their best work behind the scenes, educating us all …  protecting the environment and doing the right thing.” He thanked the SVCA’s employees, past and present, for all their years of service.

Lisa Thompson, member of provincial legislature for Huron-Bruce and minister of rural affairs, also presented a certificate on behalf of Ontario’s government. She commented, “This is a very special moment in time” to honour “75 years of people who care about the environment.”

South Bruce Mayor Mark Goetz also presented a certificate to mark the occasion.

Dick Hibma, former interim general manager of the SVCA, commented on the obstacles overcome in protecting our resources, since the Conservation Authorities Act of 1946.

Ed McGugan, chair of Maitland Valley Conservation Authority, brought greetings on behalf of himself and general manager Phil Beard.

Leslie Rich, of Conservation Ontario, said this milestone anniversary is a “great opportunity to look at the past, take stock,” and determine the direction for tomorrow.

She noted that SVCA has been a “leader in watershed management” when it comes to balancing community needs with safeguarding resources. “You’re raising the profile of the entire sector,” Rich told the group. “You’ve made a real and lasting difference,” not just locally but across the province. 

Grey Sauble’s Gloria Dangerfield also spoke of SVCA’s leadership in the region, saying she values “your dedication to our shared goals.”

Dan Gieruszak, a past SVCA chair, thanked the board and staff for providing “a great community service.”