For the last year, CPAWS-OV has been working tirelessly to develop a new vision for the National Capital Greenbelt. This protective band of green space, which spans some 200 square kilometers, is a source of high quality local food, a much-loved place for recreation and a haven for biodiversity – in fact, the Mer Bleue bog is one of the most biodiverse areas in all of southern Ontario.
Despite these benefits, the Greenbelt remains unprotected and at risk of development, lacking a bold, long-term vision reflective of immense value. In short, the Greenbelt is languishing and will be lost if we don’t take action now.
In February, we will be convening rights holders, partners, elected officials and representatives of the community for a one-day summit on the future of the Greenbelt.
In the lead-up to this event, we are planning to engage municipal leaders in Ottawa to make them aware of the incredible current benefits and future potential the Greenbelt offers our city and region and to solicit their support for increased protections for the Greenbelt. One such option would be to give it National Urban Park status.
Members of Council take meeting requests involving citizens of their ward very seriously so these upcoming lobby days are a great way to demonstrate widespread public support for the protection of the Greenbelt.
In January, we will be requesting meetings with the mayor and all members of council and would like you to consider joining us to meet with your Councillor. These meetings will take place at Ottawa City Hall during the weekday hours and are likely to involve about an hour of your time.
Not familiar with all the Greenbelt issues and opportunities? No problem! We will be onsite for these meetings and will provide you with briefing materials in advance so you have ample time to prepare!
Please consider helping out. Our goal is to have at least one CPAWS supporter present to meet the mayor and each of the 24 Councillors.
To sign up to meet your member of Council, please send an email to Maggie at greenbelt@cpaws.org with the name of your ward and/or member of council by January 6. You can find the name of your Councillor and ward by following this link: How City government works | City of Ottawa