President's Message

Myth can be something mysterious, inspiring, even terrifying. Myths are our collective cultural stories that explain the world and remind us of our values—from Zeus to Skywoman. And, as Robin Wall Kimmerer notes in her book Braiding Sweetgrass: “When the green earth lies resting beneath a blanket of snow, this is the time for storytelling.”

Nature-Based Solutions
Landscape architects understand the importance of nature-based solutions. This is reflected in our upcoming 2021 Congress theme Nature-Based Solutions: The Green Recovery that Ensures a Great Recovery. These solutions are increasingly relevant in addressing the biggest issues of this moment, like the need to reduce greenhouse gasses, and to help provide a connection to nature during the pandemic. More information on Congress 2021 can be found here: https://www.csla-aapc.ca/events/2021congress.

OALA Taking a Stand with Provincial Leaders
Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney held a meeting with OALA’s Municipal Outreach Committee on Oct. 28 to discuss landscape architects’ concerns with the government’s plan to install electronic billboards on 400 series highways and rail lands. Committee Co-Chairs Cynthia Graham and Robert Norman identified the need for criteria and standards to evaluate billboard proposals and locations, and the Minister requested a follow-up meeting.

In December, the OALA submitted a letter to the Premier expressing concerns that changes to the Planning and Conservation Authorities Acts identified in Bill 229 would undermine the independent voice of conservation authorities.

The OALA also submitted comments to the NDP on their Green New Deal, in response to their request. There needs to be bold action to meet the climate crisis in Ontario and the OALA suggested a number of ways Ontario can best invest in green infrastructure and build resiliency.

Taking a stand with provincial leaders to advocate for landscape architecture is the work of many dedicated volunteers. If you would like to contribute to raising this awareness, please contact me or the OALA office.

Together we can make a difference.

Jane Welsh, OALA, FCSLA
OALA President
[email protected]