Julie Welker

Upper Thames River Conservation Authority

The UTRCA covers the upper watershed of the Thames River, an area of 3,421 square kilometres. The 17 municipalities within the Upper Thames River watershed appoint representatives to the UTRCA's Board of Directors. These members represent the local urban and rural communities, deciding policies and programs that will lead to a healthy watershed. Programs and services focus on five key areas: - protecting people and property and supporting safe development; - delivering landowner stewardship; - providing natural spaces and recreational opportunities; - making science based decisions; - empowering communities and youth. The UTRCA employs approximately 80 permanent and contract staff, and an additional 70 seasonal staff.