Overview

The Niagara Escarpment is the most prominent topographical feature of the southern part of Ontario. Discover what the escarpment is, where it is and why it is so special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visit this Q & A web page to find answers to common questions about Ontario's Niagara Escarpment, the Commission and the Plan.

Environmental Planning on the Escarpment

An introduction to the Niagara Escarpment Plan, the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve and the Niagara Escarpment Commission.

Protecting the Escarpment

Learn about the history of environmental planning for the escarpment.

Issues: Environment versus Development

A look at four controversial issues -- Mineral Resource Extraction, Lot Creation in the Countryside, Urban Sprawl, Clash of Values -- that face the Niagara Escarpment Plan Area

Public and Private Interests

Controversy about restrictive land use policies for the Niagara Escarpment began with the first proposals of 1978 and continues today. An overview of organizations at both ends of the protection-development spectrum.

Geology

Learn about the history of this massive topographic feature with origins dating back some 430 to 450 million years, as well as the Escarpment's geological features, structure and location and weathering forces

Facts

A few quick facts about the Niagara Escarpment, its recognition as a World Biosphere Reserve, and the Niagara Escarpment Plan, as well as data outlining the physical and biological features of the Niagara Escarpment biosphere reserve.