At the Friends of the Tay AGM in March 2025, Climate Network Lanark’s Director of NBCS, Doreen Watson-Donald, delivered a thoughtful presentation on Ontario’s Bill 23—its impacts on our local wetlands and potential community solutions. The presentation included important information specific to Lanark County's local wetlands, highlighting how recent legislative changes could affect their protection and long-term sustainability.

Doreen's talk was followed by an engaging Q&A session that emphasized the critical role of community action in defending our wetlands. Attendees learned why wetlands are so deeply important—not just for their beauty and biodiversity, but for the essential ecological services they provide. Wetlands act as natural filters for carbon and pollution, improve water quality, offer flood control, support a wide range of species, and contribute to groundwater recharge.

See the slideshow to learn more about Bill 23 and what it means for our local environment and where we play a role in protecting them.