New sign recognizes Humber River as protected urban valley in York Region

The river is one of 21 urban river valleys connecting the Greenbelt to the Great Lakes, inland lakes and areas beyond

Newmarkettoday.ca
July 14, 2021

Today, Michael Tibollo, MPP for Vaughan-Woodbridge joined Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Jennifer Innis, Chair of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Norm Sterling, Chair of the Greenbelt Council to unveil a new sign recognizing the Humber River as a protected urban river valley within the Greenbelt.

The Humber River is one of 21 urban river valleys that connect the Greenbelt to the Great Lakes, inland lakes and areas beyond. These are the valleys of rivers that pass through cities or towns and act as urban gateways to the Greenbelt.

“We are incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such a beautiful environment that provides numerous opportunities for us to explore nature and engage with our important ecosystems,” said MPP Michael Tibollo. “Today’s unveiling is an occasion for us to celebrate the Greenbelt and look forward to ways in which we can further conserve these types of natural spaces.”

The government of Ontario is in the process of undertaking what could be the largest expansion of the Greenbelt since its creation in 2005. The Greenbelt protects environmental, groundwater, and agricultural resources.

“Protecting our local environment and the Humber River is critical as we preserve our green spaces for the benefit of Vaughan and King families,” said Stephen Lecce, MPP for King-Vaughan. “Having spent my entire life enjoying the beauty of Boyd Park, I am proud to partake in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow the Greenbelt and protect Ontario’s environmental, groundwater, and agricultural resources for future generations.”

“The Ford government understands that there needs to be a balanced approach to managing growth while protecting the natural environment for future generations,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “That is why we are adding urban river valleys to the Greenbelt and also enhancing and protecting two acres of land for every single acre where a Minister’s Zoning Order has or will be issued.”

The consultation process, which received over 5,500 submissions, saw overwhelming support for adding urban river valleys and the Paris Galt Moraine to the Greenbelt.