The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority has a unique relationship with residents in its watershed.
Healthy Watershed Supervisor Mari Veliz explains in most organizations the scientific people and the community groups work separately, but the Watershed Department at ABCA includes both the scientific team and community groups, and they're working very well together.
She points out as more people get involved in environmental issues, that stimulates more action and the need for monitoring the results of that action.
Veliz credits the community groups for the success of the partnerships because they've identified specific issues like beach posting and localized algae blooms.
Veliz adds the community groups quite often find sources of funding for the projects they want to pursue, and their involvement also tends to generate more funding from various government sources.
