Peel active in securing natural landscapes

The Region of Peel is taking an active role in the protection of key natural heritage landscapes. These greenlands are secured using a range of tools, including planning policy, stewardship, monitoring and acquisition of land through bequests, easements, donations or purchase.

"Through the Government of Ontario's Places to Grow initiative, Peel has been identified as a growth region," said Brampton Mayor Susan Fennell, chair of Peel's planning committee. "The challenge is ensuring the Region's planning initiatives balance growth and development with the protection and preservation of our natural environment."

To monitor and guide greenlands securement in Peel, Caledon regional councillor Richard Paterak has been appointed as chair of the Greenlands Securement Subcommittee (GSSC) for the 2006-2010 regional council term, and Mississauga Regional Councillor Maja Prentice has been appointed vicechair.

"The GSSC will support greenlands securement initiatives through policies in the Peel Region Official Plan and other documents that protect Peel's natural landscape," said Paterak. "Protecting and enhancing our natural heritage is leaving a legacy for future generations."

To provide residents with innovative resources for greenlands securement, the Region of Peel, along with local municipalities, conservation agencies and organizations, recently hosted a workshop to inform landowners on how they can protect their property's natural features, while taking advantage of income and property tax relief programs.

"The information provided at the workshop was excellent," Paterak added. "Landowners with unique properties were provided with information that will not only help them manage their tax situation, but help preserve and protect their environmentally sensitive property."

For more information on greenlands securement, Peel's natural features and areas, as well as various tax incentive programs available to landowners, visit them at peelregion.ca/greenlands.

For more information on the Region of Peel, please call 905-791-7800, or visit peelregion.ca.