Many subwatershed plans stress ecological concerns and appear proactive, but are often development driven. As a result, they have difficulty reconciling economic and environmental goals. Communication among conservation authorities, government agencies, and the public is vital to successful formulation and acceptance of subwatershed plans. Improved awareness of resource management issues and the functions of regulatory bodies involved in planning appears to aid public participation. Inadequate funding is the most common barrier to successful subwatershed planning. Costs may be minimized by reducing the level of detail of various study components, but may render the plan less effective. Improved leadership from the Conservation Authorities Branch of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Association of Conservation Authorities of Ontario will enhance the subwatershed planning process. Although considered important, none of the examined plans included monitoring in their budgets. A clear definition of the role of conservation authorities is essential to successful subwatershed planning.
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