A report from Gravenhurst Mayor John Klinck stated environmental conscience has played a significant role in policy-making decisions at all levels of government.

“In spite of our collective base intentions over the years, it has become clear that man’s presence within our environment, both local and beyond, has created significant change in the way our ecosystems function,” Klinck said.

“Acid rain, sewage system technology, riparian zone degradation, stormwater management philosophies and personal waste management practices are but a few of the factors in play within Muskoka and beyond.”

Klinck said a consolidated local effort, if implemented effectively by all local administrators, will produce a cumulative effect to the benefit of all communities.

A local citizen-driven environmental advisory body would also help facilitate the interests of other environmental groups in Muskoka including the Muskoka Watershed Council and the Muskoka Lakes Association’s Muskoka Bay remedial action plan, as well as potential business interests considering “green” business initiatives, he said.

“The list of potential issues is huge,” said Klinck. “It’s not just planning-related matters, but also the use of fertilizers, urban forestry and clearcutting, and energy-saving initiatives.”

Councillor Terry Pilger said he hopes the terms of reference to be developed for the committee also allow council to have full control.

“I have reservations that we don’t come up with another committee to produce red tape or impede development,” Pilger said. “While we want to be green and environmentally safe, we don’t want to impede the individual rights for property development.”

Klinck said by working together the situation can be improved and people can be educated without thinking government is imposing more rules.

Staff was instructed to commence the process to create a citizen-based environmental advisory committee and bring back more information.