The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) conserves natural resources in the Rideau River valley for everyone’s benefit. The RVCA believes that sound planning is a critical part of protecting our land and water.

As part of this mandate, the RVCA reviews development proposals (Municipal Planning) within or adjacent to natural areas. We also regulate construction in environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands, shorelines and waterways (Ontario Regulation 174/06 — Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation). The RVCA also reviews proposals to ensure that fish habitat is protected and not harmfully altered.

The RVCA oversees permits for the construction, enlargement or alteration of a septic system in the City of Ottawa and Tay Valley Township.

These efforts allow an expert team of staff (experienced in water resources, engineering, biology, hydrogeology, municipal planning and other elements of resource management) to ensure clean water, natural shorelines and sustainable land use throughout the watershed.