A rally is being organized to save the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve as well as the Rouge National Urban Park on Sunday August 13.
It will be held outside Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) Peter Bethanfalvy’s office at 1550 Kingston Road in Pickering.
A spokesperson for the organizers said local and provincial leaders must not be allowed to urbanize the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve and impact sensitive areas of Rouge National Urban Park.
The integrity of Rouge National Urban Park (RNUP) and affordability for Pickering residents is threatened by the removal of the 4,700-acre Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve (DRAP) from the Greenbelt, he said.
Former Scarborough MP and Federal Environment Minister, Pauline Browes has been a long-time advocate for the creation of the Rouge National Urban Park and has been outspoken about the need to return the DRAP to the Greenbelt to preserve the integrity of the RNUP. She recently articulated a strong case here, the spokesperson said.
He issued an action letter, urging stakeholders to sign it to send a message of opposition to destroying DRAP to Premier Doug Ford, Minister Clark, MPP Bethlenfalvy, and Mayor Ashe.
He urged residents to join the rally and raise voice against the urbanization and destruction of the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve. “Bring your signs, friends and neighbours,” he added.