Webinar | The Changing Landscape of Species at Risk in Ontario

The passing of Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025 implemented significant changes to how species at risk (SAR) are protected. The bill includes interim amendments to the Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) and introduces the Species Conservation Act, 2025 (SCA), which will ultimately replace the ESA. During this transition, unclear guidance on the application of these two Acts creates uncertainty for proponents. In this webinar, ecologists Heather Melcher, Jessica Wright, and Amber Sabourin break down key changes to the ESA and highlights of the new SCA. The discussion focuses on how these legislative changes may affect technical studies, as well as project planning and permitting for current and future projects.