Species Conservation Act now in force

The Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) and its regulations have been repealed. The Species Conservation Act, 2025 (SCA) and its regulations are now in force. Find more information on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (notice 025-0380 , notice 025-0909) and e‑Laws.

This information provides general guidance only. If you are planning an activity that may affect a species on the Protected Species in Ontario List, review the SCA and its regulations. You should also seek appropriate advice, such as legal or scientific advice, or contact SAROntario@ontario.ca.

If there is any inconsistency between this webpage and the SCA or its regulations, the legislation prevails.

Give input on assessments

The list of plants and animals that will be considered at the next meeting of the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario is posted online. You are welcome to submit information to the Committee when the meeting agenda is set, or to observe the discussions at the meeting in person.

For additional information about upcoming meetings, please contact COSSAROsecretariat@ontario.ca.

See which species will be considered by the committee and the location of the next meeting

Write recovery strategies

The Ministry periodically seeks submissions from qualified people for the development of new recovery strategies or updates to existing strategies.

If you would like to receive notification of future opportunities to author Ontario recovery strategies, email us to be placed on our distribution list.

Comment on proposed government decisions

Visit the Environmental Registry to provide your feedback on:

  • recovery strategies
  • government response statements
  • habitat regulations
  • other information about how the government will act to protect species at risk

Read and comment on current postings about species at risk:

Visit the Environmental Registry to comment