​SVCA appoints Erik Downing as acting general manager/secretary-treasurer

Erik Downing (above) is the new acting general manager/secretary-treasurer of the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA), having accepted the role, following the leave of absence of Jennifer Stephens.

With more than 20 years of professional experience in conservation authorities, Downing has dedicated his life to the cause of environmental conservation. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Studies from York University and is designated as a Provincial Offences Officer with Saugeen Conservation. He has managed the Environmental Planning and Regulations department at the SVCA for the past 10 years.

Downing’s career spans across various conservation authorities, including Ganaraska Regions, Halton Conservation, and Toronto Region, equipping him with a broad skill set and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the SVCA.

His appointment to the SVCA is not only a professional milestone but a personal one. As a husband and a father of two, his family shares his deep and active connection to the Saugeen Watershed. His role at the SVCA resonates with his family's values of preserving and enjoying the natural beauty of their home region.

"I have a profound appreciation for rural Ontario, and an understanding of the delicate balance needed with urban-rural boundaries,” said Downing. “Witnessing the transformation of vast farmlands and natural spaces into urban developments during my formative years, I was drawn to the complexities of sustainable land use. My upbringing amidst the rich, albeit unrefined, valleys and woodlands, where historic family farms often gave way to uniform subdivisions, fuelled my desire to delve deeper into environmental conservation and responsible development.

“While provincial and municipal support may fluctuate, the impact of the SVCA's collaboration with the residents within Saugeen Conservation's jurisdiction, is unmistakably visible across the entire watershed. This co-operative effort consistently yields tangible, positive outcomes in our shared environment."

As he steps into his new role, Downing is committed to continuing the legacy of the SVCA, which is approaching 75 successful years. He sees the SVCA's role as crucial in co-managing natural resources alongside residents, businesses, farmers, and other stakeholders.

One of his key convictions is the effectiveness of conservation authorities' watershed boundary management model, which he sees as the gold standard internationally in environmental conservation. His belief in this model, combined with his understanding of Saugeen Conservation's unique geographical and socio-economic climate, positions him perfectly to lead the organization into its future endeavours.

Downing is enthusiastic about the opportunities and challenges ahead and is dedicated to improving the approach of conservation authorities in general, as well as the specific operations of the SVCA. He looks forward to working closely with the board of directors and all stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for the Saugeen Watershed, a place he and his family are proud to call home.

The SVCA board of directors includes representatives from the Municipality of Kincardine, as well as the Township of Huron-Kinloss, Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, Municipality of Brockton, Township of Chatsworth, Municipality of Grey Highlands, Town of Hanover, Township of Howick, Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, Municipality of South Bruce, Town of Minto, Township of Wellington-North, Town of Saugeen Shores, Township of Southgate, Municipality of West Grey.