Mike Walters appointed new LSRCA CAO

LSRCA new release

Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority’s (LSRCA) Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Mr. Mike Walters will assume the position of Chief Administrative Officer effective October 6, 2014.

Walters, currently LSRCA’s General Manager of Watershed Management, replaces Gayle Wood, who’s been leading the organization as CAO for nearly 20 years.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Mike is taking on the position of CAO,” says LSRCA Chair, Regional Councillor/Deputy Mayor (Brock) Debbie Bath. “He is a well-respected member of the watershed community, bringing over 30 years of operational and leadership experience to the position.”

Mike’s rise to CAO comes after a competitive search that began in April 2014 and involved a number of highly qualified applicants.

“With his extensive background in integrated watershed management, climate change adaptation, innovative stormwater management and low impact development, Mike was unanimously supported when the Board of Directors met recently to vote on the recommendation from the selection committee,” adds Chair Bath. “One candidate excelled throughout the process, and that was Mike. We know that he is the absolute best person to lead us through the future.”

Mike is an Honours Geography graduate from the University of Western, has earned a Masters Certificate in Business Analysis from the Schulich School of Business, and is a Level 3 Certified Municipal Manager. Since 1984, he has developed LSRCA’s science, research, stewardship and environmental programs and services.  He is an avid supporter of the Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation, an accomplished author, sought-after speaker, and compelling advocate for integrated watershed management. Mike is well known and respected locally, regionally and internationally for his straightforward and insightful approach to watershed issues.

“Our watershed is set for growth – it’s going to be my number one priority to see that it takes place sustainably, in a way that utilizes the latest in low impact technologies and achieves our watershed health targets,” says Mike Walters. “The impacts of climate change make the issues even more pressing. I look forward to meeting these challenges head on, with the incredible team of staff and members at LSRCA and with our many municipal, community and other government partners.”

Mike Walters lives in Bradford West Gwillimbury with his wife Kelly.