The province wants to consolidate Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities in an effort to improve services.

The move was announced Friday to help get housing and other local infrastructure projects done faster while improving the way watersheds are managed and offer better flood and natural hazard protection.

“Conservation authorities play a vital role in protecting our communities and managing our watersheds, but the system has become too fragmented, inconsistent and outdated,” said Environment minister Todd McCarthy in a statement.

“The new, dedicated agency would work with conservation leaders to ensure faster, more transparent permitting and more front-line services so we can reduce delays to get shovels in the ground sooner, support economic growth and keep our communities safe fro

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