SVCA Appoints Erik Downing as General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority Appoints Erik Downing as General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer

September 6th, 2024

ALL SAUGEEN WATERSHED MUNICIPALITIES – Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, Municipality of Brockton, Township of Chatsworth, Municipality of Grey Highlands, Town of Hanover, Township of Howick, Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, Municipality of South Bruce, Township of Huron-Kinloss, Municipality of Kincardine, Town of Minto, Township of Wellington-North, Town of Saugeen Shores, Township of Southgate, Municipality of West Grey.

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Erik Downing as General Manager and Secretary-Treasurer (GM/S-T), effective September 9th, 2024. Erik’s appointment follows a comprehensive internal and external recruitment process, solidifying his leadership after having served in the Acting GM/S-T role over the past year.

With more than 20 years of experience in environmental management, natural hazard protection, conservation enforcement, and watershed governance Erik brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this position. His extensive career across multiple Conservation Authorities, including 17 years with SVCA, has equipped him with a broad skill set and a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the Saugeen, Teeswater, Pine, and Penetangore watersheds.

“Erik has provided strong leadership during this past year as Acting General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer. With his deep understanding of the watershed and the organization, we are confident that he will continue to guide SVCA with stability and vision as we move forward.”

-          Barbara Dobreen, Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority Board Chair

As a Provincial Offences Officer and a graduate of York University with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies (BES), Erik has committed his career thus far to balancing safe and sustainable development with environmental protection. As SVCA looks to the future, Erik is committed to collaborating with the Board, stakeholders, and the broader community to strengthen the organization’s role in environmental conservation.

 Erik is eager to lead SVCA in continuing its mission to protect and manage the natural resources of the Watershed for future generations. His personal connection to the Saugeen watershed, where he resides with his family, bolsters his passion for conserving the local natural environment.

Erik’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for SVCA, and his leadership is expected to bring stability and progress as the organization navigates evolving provincial mandates and growing environmental challenges.   

Photo credit: Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority. Photo 1: Headshot, Erik Downing.  Photo 2: Erik Downing standing beside a ‘Virgin Pine’ tree in the Greenock Swamp.

For more information, please contact:
Ashley Richards
Communications Coordinator, Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
Email: a.richards@svca.on.ca     
Cell: 519-369-4295