The MPP for Windsor West is trying to reverse a recent provincial decision to allow development on the South Cameron woodlot.
Lisa Gretzky said in a statement issued Monday night that she has written the premier and asked him to immediately reinstate the significant wetland designation to "protect this critical wetland."
"Many Windsorites are concerned about development on South Cameron woodlot," she said.
Mayor Drew Dilkens announced through his Facebook page on February 28 that the province lifted a "Provincially Significant Wetland" designation for nearly 50 acres of the South Cameron woodlot, opening the possibility for future residential development in that part of Windsor just west of Mark Avenue and Kenora Street.
"Windsor has a low percentage of wetland acreage and has become increasingly prone to flooding. We need to protect this area, not pave over it," Gretzky added.
Gretzky wrote in the letter that countless of her constituents are alarmed by the decision.
She added the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry's rationale to remove the designation is flawed. The ministry said the wetland is so degraded because of road salt and pollution that it no longer meets criteria for provincial significance. Gretzky added the degradation should only amplify the need to protect the wetland.
She reminded the premier that her riding has been repeatedly hit by flooding and other areas in Windsor should be considered for development over the South Cameron wetland.
A group of Windsor residents also is urging the city to reconsider opening a portion of that previously-protected woodlot to development.
Area residents are worried about the environment being compromised and an increased potential for basement flooding as a result of development on the wetlands.
