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NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE: The Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) celebrated its 50th anniversary of protecting, maintaining, and enhancing the Niagara Escarpment with a special celebration at Queenston Heights Park in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario on June 18, 2024.
Local dignitaries, provincial leaders, and members of the public gathered to celebrate the creation of the Commission, which took place in 1973 following public concern about unregulated growth and resource development along the Escarpment.
Among speakers at the event were Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources Drew Vanderduim, Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa, NEC Director Shawn Carey, NEC Chair Jim Collard, and Niagara Parks Commission Chair Bob Gale.
“For 50 years, the Niagara Escarpment Commission has been a trusted steward of this region’s breathtaking landscapes: Contributing to local and regional economies through tourism, agriculture and more,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources. “Today is an opportunity to show our continuous support for this important work on behalf of the region and Ontario.”
“The Niagara Escarpment is a thriving example of how responsible development and sustainable management can grow while protecting our natural resources,” said Drew Vanderduim, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources. “Congratulations to the Niagara Escarpment Commission on 50 years of your commitment to maintaining and protecting this vital region for Ontarians.”
Around 195,000 hectares of land within 23 local municipalities spanning seven regions and counties and the City of Hamilton are protected through the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP), Canada’s first land use plan, which was implemented in 1985 for the maintenance of the Niagara Escarpment – A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The plan establishes land-use designations, development criteria, and related permitted uses for lands within its boundaries. It also provides the framework for a string of more than 160 parks and open spaces linked by the Bruce Trail.
Areas within the NEP are protected by the NEC through the issuance of Development Permit Applications. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, NEC received 506 applications and issued 267 permits.
“The Commission and staff have worked together to protect the Escarpment and balance the needs of our partners and residents with the needs of the land,” said Jim Collard, NEC Chair.
“Protecting, maintaining, and enhancing Ontario’s Escarpment for half a century is no small feat,” said NEC Director Shawn Carey. “Many staff members, Commissioners, and other governments have played a crucial role in keeping this unique landform something all Ontarians can enjoy and be proud of.”
Marie Bowering offers a land acknowledgement. (NEC)
NEC staff, NEC Commissioners, partner agencies, and political dignitaries in attendance at the NEC 50th anniversary. (NEC)
NEC Director Shawn Carey. (NEC)
NEC Director Shawn Carey (Left), NEC Chair Jim Collard (Centre), and Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Drew Vanderduim.
The Niagara Escarpment Commission as of June 2024.
NEC Staff and NEC Commissioners. (NEC)
Former NEC Chair Jim Collard (left) with fellow former NEC Chair Don Scott (right).
Niagara Parks Commission's Bob Gale. (NEC)
Drew Vanderduim, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources. (NEC)
Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa. (NEC)
NEC staff, NEC Commissioners, partner agencies, and political dignitaries in attendance at the NEC 50th anniversary. (NEC)
NEC and Bruce Trail Conservancy
