Humber River recognized with new permanent signage

By Mark Pavilons

Local officials unveiled a new sign paying tribute to the importance of the Humber River.

Caledon Councillor Jennifer Innis, who's also chair of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, was joined by colleagues at the ceremony, which acknowledges the Humber River is a protected river valley within the Greenbelt.

“The river valleys of the Greenbelt. like the Humber Valley, play a vital role in sustaining the Region's biodiversity and in helping to protect our communities from the negative effects of flooding and erosion,” Innis said. “They also offer a space for our residents to be active and healthy, while connecting with nature. The TRCA commends the Province for their commitment to protecting green spaces by growing 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.

Joining Innis were King-Vaughan MPP Stephen Lecce, Vaughan-Woodbridge MPP Michael Tibollo, Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Norm Sterling, Chair of the Greenbelt Council.

“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 Lecce. “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 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.

“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 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 Ford government understands that there needs to be a balanced approach to managing growth while protecting the natural environment for future generations,” said Minister Clark. “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.