MINUTES - Essex Region Conservation · MINUTES Minutes for Meeting of the Board of Directors held...

MINUTES

Minutes for Meeting of the Board of Directors held Thursday, January 19, 2017, at 7:00

p.m. in Council Chambers, Essex County Civic Centre, 360 Fairview Avenue West, Essex,

ON.*

Members Present:

Steve Bjorkman

Terry Burns

Susanne Coghill

Fred Francis

Rick Fryer

Len Janisse

Tania Jobin

Irek Kusmierczyk

Rick Masse

Rita Ossington

Larry Patterson

Hilary Payne

Jeff Renaud

Ed Sleiman (Chair)

Larry Snively

Ron Sutherland

Larry Verbeke

Absent:

Regrets: Al Fazio John Jacobs

Staff: Richard Wyma, General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer

Candice Kondratowicz, Corporate Services: Administrative Associate

Tim Byrne, Director, Watershed Management Services

Shelley McMullen, Director, Finance & Corporate Services

Kevin Money, Director, Conservation Services

Danielle Stuebing, Director, Community Outreach Services

Alex Denonville, Event Planner

Michael Dick, Agricultural Technician

Kris Ives, Curator/Education Coordinator

Ashley Gyori, Risk Management Official/Inspector

Dan Jenner, Regulations Technician

Beth Johnston, Finance & HR Administrator

Vivian Kennedy, Community Outreach: Administrative Associate

Roger Palmini, Geomatics Technician

Lisa Pavan, Watershed Management Services: Administrative Associate

Phil Robson, Environmental Educator

Bryan Schmidt, IT Support Technician

Guests: Assorted Media

Audrey, WAC

William Altenhoff, Town of Tecumseh

Karen Amlin

Mayor Ken Antaya, Town of LaSalle

Warden Tom Bain, Essex County

Lisa Bauer, Friends of John R. Park Homestead

Ron Barrette, Source Protection Committee

Jim, John & Chris Brush

Jeannette Chase

Steve & Lisa Chase

Sean Collier, Union Gas

Irene Moore Davis

Rodney Davis

Martin Denonville

Henry & Kathy Denotter

Jeremy Denotter Emmanger

Jerome Deslippe

Kim & Karley Dick

Bill Dukes, Source Protection Committee

Alyssa Frazao

Amanda Gellman, Director, ERCF Board of Director

Bob Hall-Brooks, HBMO

Cheryl Hardcastle, MP, Windsor-Tecumseh

Cara Hernould, MNRF

Tom Henderson

John Howitt, GECDSB

Bryan Hyland, ESCIA

Mary-Ann Keefner, Shibley Righton, LLP

Barb Kondratowicz

Carrie Lee

Patricia M.

Deputy Mayor Hilda MacDonald, Municipality of Leamington

Timothy McDermid

Mayor Ron McDermott, Town of Essex

Linday McKinlay, Town of Lakeshore

Dave Monk, Source Protection Committee

Bob Morand, Rotary Windsor-St.Clair

David Munroe

T. Neufeld, Kingsville

Irene Ossington

Andy Paul

Michael Payne, Amherstburg

Jamie I Peter, Councillor Caldwell First Nations

Hans Peter Pfeifer, Source Protection Committee

Tracey Pillon-Abbs, Town of Essex

Robert, Andrew, Jennifer, Molly, Bob, Penny, Emma, Hunter Pula

Wendy Pulleyblank

Neil Quenneville, Union Gas

Dan St. Denis, Caesars Windsor

Jasmine St. Pierre

Ken Schmidt, ERCF Board of Director

Chris Snip

Justine Taylor, Source Protection Committee

Dwight Velichka

Claire Wales, Vice President, ERCF Board of Directors

Niels Wilcken, Rotary Windsor-St.Clair

1. Call To Order

Good evening, everyone, and welcome to our Annual General Meeting.

I would also like to welcome all of our elected officials, members of our Essex

Region Conservation Foundation, and all our ERCA Staff who have joined us

this evening. Thank you also to our Conservation Award Winners, who will be

more suitably introduced later this evening.

Tonight we celebrate the efforts of so many in our Community that have

contributed to making Essex Region The Place for Life; and I know you will be

impressed.

We do have some business to take care of before we begin our Awards.

First, we have regrets tonight from:

Councillor John Jacobs and Councillor Al Fazio.

2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest

Fred Francis noted that he will be abstaining from voting on section (e) (ii) due

to family at WFCU.

3. Approval of Agenda

Resolution BD01/17 Moved by Tania Jobin

Seconded by Irek Kusmierczyk

THAT the Agenda for the Thursday, January 19, 2017, Meeting of the

Board of Directors be approved. - CARRIED

4. Adoption of Minutes

(a). ERCA Board of Directors

Resolution BD02/17 Moved by Rick Fryer

Seconded by Larry Patterson

THAT the Minutes of the Thursday, December 8, 2016 Meeting of

the Board of Directors and the recommendations therein be

approved as distributed. - CARRIED

(b). Conservation Ontario (CO)

Resolution BD03/17 Moved by Susanne Coghill

Seconded by Steve Bjorkman

THAT the Minutes of December 5, 2016, Conservation Ontario

Council Meeting* be received. - CARRIED

5. Actions

(a) Opening Remarks

Before vacating the Chair, I would like to express to each of you what a

privilege it has been to serve on this Board. I believe that together, we

have done a good job in advancing environmental sustainability in the

Place for Life.

We will have the opportunity to reflect on some of our many

accomplishments later this evening with our annual report video, but

there are a few notable highlights that I will take with me from my time

as Chair.

I was extremely pleased to launch our new Strategic Plan, and to broadly

consult with a variety of stakeholders through the process.

I was proud to work with Susan Stockwell Andrews and the Essex Region

Conservation Foundation to help launch our new visual identity and The

Place for Life.

It was rewarding to travel to our many conservation areas to see our staff

in action – educating students, engaging volunteers, planting trees,

monitoring water quality, providing flooding and erosion protection and

so much more. I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to work on the tree

planting machine!

And, despite the torrential rain of September 28 this year, it was exciting

to break ground for the new Cypher Systems Group Greenway – a trail

that brings our vision of a connected community one step closer to

reality.

To the members of the Board, I thank each of you for your dedication,

commitment, and support. One of the most important elements of this

Board is our relationships – with each other, with all levels of government,

volunteers, organizations and many, many others. I am pleased that we

had the opportunity to strengthen our relationships with one another

over these past few years.

I look forward to continuing to work with you all for years to come.

Now, I look for a motion to allow Mr. Richard Wyma, General Manager, to

chair the election of the new Chair and Vice Chair for our Authority.

(b) Election of Chair

Resolution BD04/17 Moved by Rick Masse

Seconded by Larry Verbeke

THAT the General Manager of the Essex Region Conservation

Authority (ERCA) be authorized to act as Chair for the 2017 ERCA

election of Chair - CARRIED

Resolution BD05/17 Moved by Terry Burns

Seconded by Steve Bjorkman

THAT the following two individuals, Mary-Ann Keefner and Tracey

Pillon-Abbs are accepted to act as scrutineers for the election of

Chair and Vice Chair, if needed. - CARRIED

6. Nominations for Chair

The General Manager called for nominations for the 2017 Chair

Len Janisse nominated Rick Fryer.

Tania Jobin nominated Rita Ossington.

Richard Wyma asked for the third and final time if there are any other

nominations for the position of Chair.

Councillor Fryer and Councillor Ossington allowed their names to stand for

position of the Chair.

Resolution BD06/17 Moved by Larry Patterson

Seconded by Larry Snively

THAT nominations for the Chair be closed. - CARRIED

The General Manager acknowledged Councillor Fryer as the new Chair of the

Conservation Authority for the next two years by majority vote.

7. Nominations for Vice Chair

The General Manager called for nominations for the 2017 Vice Chair

Hilary Payne nominated Ed Sleiman.

Len Janisse nominated Hilary Payne.

Steve Bjorkman nominated Irek Kusmierczyk.

Councillor Sleiman, Councillor Payne and Councillor Kusmierczyk allowed their

names to stand for the position of Vice Chair.


Seconded by Rick Fryer

THAT nominations for the Vice Chair be closed. - CARRIED

The General Manager acknowledged Irek Kusmierczyk the 2017 Vice Chair of

the Essex Region Conservation Authority for the next two years by majority

vote.

Resolution BD08/17 Moved by Ron Sutherland

Seconded by Terry Burns

THAT the ballots be destroyed in accordance with the “Essex Region

Conservation Authority – Governance Overview, Section 4.0” - CARRIED

8. 2017 Chair Comments

Thanks to all of you for your confidence in electing me as Chair – I look

forward to serving this Board and the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island community

in this role.

Congratulations also to Irek Kusmierczyk on his election.

Before we move on, on behalf of the Board of Directors, I’d like to extend my

sincerest appreciation to Councillor Sleiman for his leadership as our Chair

over past two years.

As a token of our thanks and in recognition of your service, I am pleased to

present you with this ERCA jacket as gift of appreciation.

To all of the Members of the Board, I look forward to working with you to

make the decisions that will ultimately affect our children, grandchildren and

great grandchildren as we strive to create a future of environmental

sustainability for this region.

There’s no question that a healthy economy, healthy citizens and healthy

environment are linked together, and what helps to make our region the Place

for Life.

What an exciting opportunity we have here, through this Board, and at this

time, to work together better create these connections and sustain and enrich

our regional environment. I am so looking forward to working together with

all of you to achieve this important goal.

9. 2017 ERCA Committee Membership

Resolution BD09/17 Moved by Larry Verbeke

Seconded by Susanne Coghill

THAT the 2017 Committee memberships remain status quo until

new Committee Structures and Terms of Reference are presented

and approved - CARRIED

10. Appointment of ERCA Auditor, Financial Institutions, Solicitor and

Insurance Company for 2017

(a). Auditor


Seconded by Len Janisse

THAT the firm of Hicks, MacPherson, Iatonna and Driedger LLP be

appointed as the Authority’s Auditor for 2017. - CARRIED

(b). Banker

Resolution BD11/17 Moved by Jeff Renaud

Seconded by Terry Burns

THAT the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and the Windsor

Family Credit Union be appointed as the ERCA financial institutions

and utilized for banking, including borrowing and short-term

investments, for 2017. - CARRIED

(c). Solicitors

Resolution BD12/17 Moved by Fred Francis

Seconded by Rita Ossington

THAT the firms of Shibley Righton, LLP, and M. Gordner Law

Professional Corporation be appointed the ERCA Solicitors for

2017. - CARRIED

(d). Insurance Company

Resolution BD13/17 Moved by Larry Patterson

Seconded by Ron Sutherland

THAT ERCA continues to participate in the Conservation Ontario

Group Insurance program for its insurance coverage for 2017. - CARRIED

(e). Approval of ERCA Borrowing Resolution for 2017

Resolution BD14/17 Moved by Len Janisse

Seconded by Jeff Renaud

THAT ERCA adopt for 2017, the following resolution:

WHERAS it is necessary for the Essex Region Conservation

Authority (hereinafter called the “Authority”) to borrow the sum of

up to 1,500,000 dollars required for its purposes until payment to

the Authority by the participating municipalities designated as

such under the Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter

C.27, as amended 2006, and grant payments received from senior

levels of government.

Be It Therefore Resolved:

THAT the Authority borrow, at the lowest effective interest rate,

from any one of its appointed financial institutions or participating

municipalities, a sum not to exceed in the aggregate 1,500,000

dollars at any one time necessary for its purposes by way of loans,

advances, overdrafts, or promissory note, or notes of the Authority

until payment to the Authority of any grants and of sums to be

paid to the Authority by participating municipalities. - CARRIED

(f). Designation of Signing Officers for 2017

Resolution BD15/17 Moved by Larry Verbeke

Seconded by Susanne Coghill

THAT the Chair/Vice Chair, General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer,

and Director of Finance and Corporate Services be designated as

ERCA’s Signing Officers for 2017. - CARRIED

11. 2016 ERCA Annual Report (attached)

Each year, we endeavour to provide a snapshot of the accomplishments of the

past year. While there are hundreds of successes we could feature, we choose

to concentrate on just a few.

You will find a printed copy of this year’s report at your desks, and I invite you

to please enjoy this brief video of highlights from the past year.

12. ERCA Staff Service Awards

The accomplishments we celebrate here tonight would not have been

possible without the dedicated team of staff who implement them.

We are so fortunate to have staff who, over many years, continue to

contribute to the sustainability of the region, and we have undertaken the

practice of recognizing special milestones. At this time, I invite General

Manager Richard Wyma to introduce those staff members.

Michael Dick

For 10 years, Michael has been representing ERCA within the farming

community with pride. Michael’s expertise as a certified agrologist allows him

to provide much needed advice and expertise to farmers looking to make

improvements to their farming operations. Michael has overseen thousands

of windbreaks, buffer strips, well cappings, septic upgrades and rock chutes

during his tenure here. With a renewed international focus on phosphorus

reduction, Michael has risen to the task of learning about innovative Best

Management Practices that may be of interest to our local farmers. He also

works with industry, government and academic partners to run ERCA’s

Demonstration Farm, which is designed to showcase methods of reducing

environmental impacts while maximizing crop yields. And finally, Michael is a

valued part of the Essex Soil and Crop Improvement Association and serves as

the Secretary-Treasurer for this farming organization - a position everyone

avoids. Through this role, he works alongside farmers to curb some of the

most pressing environmental issues this region faces, such as Lake Erie Algal

Blooms. Michael’s agricultural understanding and knowledge are valued

assets to ERCA, and we are pleased to recognize his 10 years of service.

Bryan Schmidt

Bryan celebrates 10 years of service this year as ERCA’s sole network and

applications support technician. While he’s a one-man MacGyver show at

ERCA and some people have never even met him (he hides out in the server

room), too many of us are unaware that our work lives depend on his

unwavering tenacity and problem-solving ability! For years, Bryan managed

our systems on a shoestring budget, never complaining, and I think in fact,

we’ve seen actual shoestrings holding up wires in the server room.

Maintaining and managing a network, data security, email/internet, phones

and desktop computer systems is a lot like providing electricity- no one ever

thanks you for it or gives it much thought until the lights go out! This past

fall, Bryan took holidays for two weeks in a row, a FIRST in ten years! We are

most pleased for the opportunity to thank him, not only for this last decade of

service but a decade of patience and we promise you’ll be able to take more

vacations!

Beth Johnston

Beth celebrates 15 years of service at ERCA, and for most of that time she

worked as the accounting and payroll technician but in more recent years has

taken on broader responsibilities related to human resources administration.

Each day, and with most of us unaware, Beth addresses and manages multiple

issues relating to hiring, payroll, OMERS, banking, accounts receivable and

more, all while maintaining utmost professionalism in her confidential and

trusted role. We’d like to mention that, on her own accord and her own time,

Beth successfully obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and has taken

numerous courses to further her job- related knowledge and skills.

When Beth’s not at ERCA, or doing ERCA’s bank reconciliations at home or

someone’s tax return, Beth loves to travel, spend time with her family,

including her beloved cat Winston, and quiet times at the lake. We are most

pleased for the opportunity to thank her, not only for 15 years of service but

for her stalwart support of ERCA’s work in the region!

Kevin Money

Kevin began work with ERCA in August of 2001 as the Friends of Watersheds

Organizer. In January 2005, he became the Coordinator of Conservation Areas,

and in January 2013, that position changed again to his current role, Director

of Conservation Services.

Over his 15 years, and true to his name, Kevin has likely spent more money

than anyone else at ERCA, but to his credit, he’s also been responsible for

bringing in much of the money he spends – for everything from school yard

plantings, to wetlands, to large scale restoration efforts, shoreline

enhancements, and greenways. With the launch of our Sustainability Plan in

2013, and the introduction of a Capital Plan and reserves, Kevin was tasked

with upgrading our Conservation Area infrastructure, and combined with his

other efforts related to visitor services, has been able to reintroduce our

communities to the important landscapes and habitats around them.

Through it all, Kevin has an ability to keep smiling, and is always calm and

steady despite juggling many often-competing priorities. His staff appreciate

that Kevin ‘always has their back’ and genuinely wants them to succeed as

much as the projects they are working on.

During his 15 years with ERCA, Kevin has developed ‘on-the-ground’

relationships with local conservation partners, senior levels of government

and other agencies that have significantly benefitted the Essex Region. Thank

you Kevin.

13. ERCA Conservation Awards Presentation

(speaking notes & presentation attached)

Taking the time to honour those organizations and individuals who have

made significant contributions to protecting and improving our region’s

natural environment is one of the most exciting elements of each year’s

annual meeting.

At this time, I’d like to invite Vice Chair Kusmierczyk and Danielle Breault

Stuebing, ERCA’s Director of Communications and Outreach Services, to assist

in recognizing this year’s award winners.

<present awards to Conservation Award Winners>

Congratulations to all Award Winners, and a final reminder that immediately

following the conclusion of our meeting, please gather in the centre of

Council Chambers for a group photograph.

We hope all guests will join us for a reception in the lobby

Again, thanks to everyone for joining us tonight on this special occasion, and

for your contributions toward making our region the Place for Life.

14. Other Business

(a). The next meeting of the ERCA Board of Directors will be held on

Thursday, February 9, 2017 starting at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers,

Essex County Civic Centre, 360 Fairview Avenue West, Essex, ON.

15. Adjournment

Resolution BD16/17 Moved by Fred Francis

Seconded by Larry Verbeke

THAT the Meeting be adjourned. - CARRIED

Richard J.H. Wyma

General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer

2016 Annual Report

ERCA is unique in that in addition to the valuable services it provides to its member municipalities, we also provide a significant financial return. Over the last decade, ERCA has received $26.5 million in levy funding; and in return, secured more than $35 million in external grant funding for municipalities and the region. This is over and above all we do to create a future of sustainability, and demonstrates a remarkable return on investment.

It has been my honour to serve as Chair for the past two years, and I look forward to continuing to work together for years to come, to ensure that our region is the Place for Life.

Sincerely,

Ed SleimanChair/Councillor, City of Windsor

2016 Annual Report - Sustaining the #PlaceforLife

Message from the Chair

Thanks to the support of many, there are great achievements to celebrate this year. The new Cypher Systems Group Greenway is under construction, and accessibility for visitors to Kopegaron Woods and the John R. Park Homestead has been improved. We’ve added 103 acres of natural area to our landscape and implemented 88 projects to help improve water quality. We hosted the first Western Lake Erie Student Conference which highlighted the vulnerabilities of our Great Lakes. And, we launched the development of Regional Stormwater Guidelines, made all the more critical in the aftermath of the rainfall emergency that hit Windsor, Tecumseh and Lakeshore in September.

All of these projects are made possible by working together – with municipalities, private landowners, senior levels of government and volunteers. We are thankful to all of our partners for their many contributions.

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2016 was a very significant year for Essex Region Conservation. We launched our new strategic plan, Sustaining the Place for Life, which sets our priorities and directions for the next decade. Together with the Essex Region Conservation Foundation, we created a new visual identity to demonstrate the strengthened relationship between our two organizations, and our shared commitment to create a place we can be proud of and celebrate – one we can call home. For life.

The projects, programs and priorities implemented over the past year, and in fact, the past more than four decades, are critically important to ensuring that the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region will continue to be the Place for Life.

Yours in Conservation,

Richard J. H. WymaGeneral Manager/Secretary-Treasurer

Message from the General Manager

The Essex Region, like other areas, is made up of places – where we live, where we work, where we gather, where we play. All elements of a place are interconnected. We recognize that natural processes contribute to the health of the places we live in, which, in turn, influence the health and integrity of our natural areas; and strengthen our regional economies.

We have a responsibility to enrich and sustain our region as a place with connected natural areas, where people are protected from flooding and erosion. A place with healthy rivers and streams, beaches we can swim in, and lakes we can fish in; greenways and trails that connect us to our landscapes and to each other. A place with productive agricultural lands. A sustainable place that is resilient and can adapt to change. We have to learn about and understand what makes our places great, how changes in our landscapes impact the places we live in, and how to respond to ensure our region is healthy and sustainable.

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Our VisionThe Essex Region is a sustainable, resilient and vibrant place with healthy and thriving watersheds, Great Lakes and a green culture.

Our MissionImproving our environment to enrich our lives.

The Place for Life reinforces thatall elements of a place are interconnected – our community, its environmental health, healthy lifestyles for our citizens, and our economy. Life recognizes our living, thriving, sustainable natural systems. Life refers to the people of our community; their health and protection, and our shared heritage. We embrace this place and make it our home. For life.

PLaCe fOr LifeIn 2016, we launched our Strategic Plan 2016-2025 – Sustaining the Place for Life, which builds on five main areas of focus that resounded through broad consultation: climate change, Great Lakes, landscapes and habitats, sustainable communities and a strong, resilient organization. In total, fifteen strategic goals have been identified, with forty-five actions outlined to achieve these goals.

We also created a new visual identity to demonstrate the strengthened relationship between the Essex Region Conservation Authority and Foundation. essex region Conservation, an overarching identity, promotes the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region as the Place for Life. Both the Authority and Foundation logos have been updated and modernized with unique but complementary icons and messaging that strategically portray the spirit of the Place for Life.

To build on this theme, we hosted the #PlaceforLife social media contest to enhance community excitement and pride in our region, and showcase all of its special places. Friends and followers submitted stories or photographs via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to demonstrate why this region is the #PlaceforLife.

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2016 WaterShed hiGhLiGhtS2016 was a year of significant change and progress. We launched our new strategic plan and five key strategic directions to ensure our region is the Place for Life. The following highlights are a snapshot of the programs implemented to align with our strategic priorities.

resulting in a better understanding of regional issues and a streamlined review process. Completion of this guideline, in conjunction with the Intensity-Duration- Frequency Curve research, are important first steps in the development of a regional climate adaptation strategy.

CLiMateChanGeWe are continuing to observe a changing climate. While efforts to slow climate change must continue, we also need to help our partner communities adapt to its impacts. This year, ERCA:

• Assisted Windsor, Tecumseh and Lakeshore by mobilizing pumps, providing sandbags, and providing general emergency response assistance during the significant rainfall emergency in September.

• Launched the development of regional Stormwater Guidelines in partnership with the County of Essex and all mainland municipalities. This document will address the need for a comprehensive technical guide to assist municipalities, consultants and ERCA in the design and review of stormwater facilities. It will ensure that a consistent approach is implemented,

Received over 1,650 planning and development requests for review and applications for permits, to protect new development from flooding hazards while ensuring environmental sustainability.

• Obtained Water and erosion Control infrastructure improvements (WeCi) funding to implement additional improvements along the Grand Marais drain flood Control Channel, furthering the City of Windsor and ERCA’s ongoing efforts to provide flood protection and storm drainage outlet for this watershed. Works included the deepening and widening of

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GreatLaKeSThe Great Lakes are our most significant natural resource. Our 2012 Watershed Report Card identified failing grades for surface water quality in virtually every watershed. More must be done to protect and improve water quality, and this year, ERCA:

• Implemented 88 water quality improvement projects across the region.

• Continued partnering with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) in the Kingsville-Leamington nutrient Study (KLN). Fourteen streams are monitored to collect information to understand the contribution of phosphorus from greenhouses and track changes in phosphorus concentrations over time. • Worked with partners to raise public

awareness about drinking Water Source Protection through the installation of road signs in vulnerable drinking water areas. These signs are consistent across the province to raise awareness that our streams and rivers are connected to our sources of drinking water.

• approximately 180 metres of open channel and drain improvements through the South Cameron Road culvert. These continued improvements bring the channel one step closer to attaining full flood control benefit.

• Partnered with the Town of Lakeshore and the Provincial WECI program to complete the Belle river flood Control Structure. The project included the replacement of

Continued water quality monitoring at 93 sites across the region. These include surface water, ground water, wet weather and benthos monitoring stations.

approximately 65 metres of sheet steel shore protection and the removal of one manually operated flood control gate. These works reinstate the integrity of portions of the flood control structure which provides protection to approximately 250 floodprone dwellings within the Belle River area.

Collaborated with the University of Windsor Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research (GLIER) and other partners in the Great Lakes Recreational Water Security research project. This study is to better understand the types of microbial communities found at our beaches and how they relate to beach closures and harmful algal blooms.

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cleanups, invasive species removals, citizen science and other outreach events.

• Introduced a full service restoration program option for landowners interested in tree planting and other habitat creation programs, without undertaking site preparation and long term maintenance. This new turn-key operation hopes to result in more landowners participating in habitat creation projects, contributing to a future of sustainability for all.

LandSCaPeS& haBitatSOur landscapes and habitats are among the most significant in Canada, and, while we have planted more than 6 million trees and achieved 8.5% natural areas coverage, more action is needed to reach our 12% target. This year, ERCA:

• Created 8 new wetlands totalling 6 acres. Wetlands improve water quality, filter surface runoff, provide groundwater recharge, reduce flooding and erosion, and maintain soil moisture during drought conditions.

• Engaged 1,800 volunteers to take action to improve environmental sustainability by participating in 36 tree plantings, stream

• Provided risk Management Services on behalf of municipalities to implement policies in the Source Protection Plan, and began approving Risk Management Plans to mitigate risks associated with the handling and storage of large volumes of liquid fuel throughout the region.

Planted and distributed 101,000 trees, and restored nearly 87 acres of forest habitat and 11.5 acres of prairie habitat.

• Administered the Great Lakes agricultural Stewardship Priority Subwatershed initiative (GLASI) to determine the cost of

phosphorus reduction using agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) in the eastern branch of the Wigle Creek watershed near Kingsville. In 2016, 47 cost sharing BMP projects were approved, including planting cover crops and the purchase of new farm equipment to facilitate the more precise application of fertilizer. This project was funded in part through Growing Forward 2 (GF2), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of GF2 in Ontario. ERCA’s water quality team monitors phosphorus concentrations at seven sites to determine phosphorus reduction in this small watershed.

Worked with agricultural landowners to exchange knowledge and information through tours, meetings and other initiatives.

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• Undertook a pilot project to restore Wetlands through Phragmites removal at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area, a managed 117-acre wetland cell. This multi-phase project included GPS mapping, specialized herbicide application, hand-removal and monitoring activities. As well, an educational video was created, and a workshop hosted in partnership with the Windsor-Essex County Environment Committee Green Speaker series.

• Initiated a significant restoration project at Spring Garden natural area, in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and the City of Windsor. Prairie habitat will be restored as a result of this multi-year project to remove invasive Autumn Olive and allow native species to flourish.

• Drafted environmental impact assessment (eia) Guidelines for the region to help our municipal partners consistently apply decisions regarding natural heritage protection.

• Provided significant advice and input to the Official Plan updates in four municipalities – Lakeshore, Tecumseh, LaSalle and Kingsville.

• Constructed the Cypher Systems Group Greenway. Thanks to a generous gift of $250,000 from Cypher Systems Group, and support from the Government of Canada, the Town of Essex and many corporate and individual donations, the Essex Region Conservation Foundation’s TrailOn! campaign

SuStainaBLe COMMunitieSOur urban areas will continue to grow and expand: ERCA will need to continue to work with all partners to plan sustainable communities that reduce urban sprawl, are walkable, have a healthy food supply and incorporate green infrastructure. In 2016, we:

• Conducted significant natural heritage inventory work on behalf of the Towns of Tecumseh and Lakeshore to aid these municipalities in protecting natural heritage features through their Official Plan Amendments.

Conducted a Low Complexity Prescribed Burn at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area to revitalize and maintain the tallgrass prairie ecosystem and allow rare plants and animals to flourish.

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• Hosted the first Western Lake erie Student Conference. Thanks to funding from the Ontario Ministries of Environment and Climate Change and Education, 150 secondary school students from across the region participated to learn more about the challenges and issues surrounding the most vulnerable of our Great Lakes, and a variety of related career opportunities.

raised over $1 million to develop this trail. This property stretches 26 kilometres from the urban centre of Essex to the Town of Amherstburg and intersects with the existing Chrysler Canada Greenway in McGregor.

• Rebuilt the Kopegaron Woods Boardwalk to improve accessibility, environmental sustainability and visitor services. In total, nearly 600 metres of boardwalk have been replaced, and the balance of the gravel and woodchip trail resurfaced to improve walkability. The boardwalk is constructed of red cedar instead of pressure treated wood, to eliminate the use of man-made preservatives.

Engaged nearly 10,000 students in outdoor and conservation education programs, to provide curriculum-based experiences that teach young people about the importance of protecting our environment and preserving our human and natural heritage.

• Partnered with the Greater Essex County District School Board and the Ministry of Environment to offer the first Great Lakes innovation-Creativity-entrepreneurship training session, aimed at finding solutions to local challenges with Lake Erie. Five students were chosen to present the collective proposals at the provincial Great Lakes Summit in October 2016.

• Doubled capacity in our teen ranger Program, providing 40 youth aged 12 - 15 with unique opportunities to connect with and take action for the environment. Participants graduated with an increased appreciation of the world and people around them; better team-building skills; and greater awareness of themselves and their abilities.

Connected nearly 300 new Canadians to nature through snowshoeing and safe canoeing experiences, with support from the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Recreation.

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• Restored the Smokehouse at the John R. Park Homestead, thanks to a grant from Questers International. As well, ERCA replaced 6 windows at the Homestead to ensure the museum’s historical and architectural integrity.

• Unveiled the ‘Waterbirds of hillman Marsh’ interpretive sign to augment birding tourism in the Place for Life. Created with support from the Ontario Field Ornithologists, Pelee Wings Nature Store,

Certified 205 secondary school Specialist High Skills Major students with training in a variety of subject matters to permit them to graduate with these specializations, while achieving our goal of helping to educate the next generation of conservationists.

a StrOnGreSiLientOrGanizatiOnERCA is a sustainable, resilient and valued agency. Since 1973, ERCA has been striving to achieve a state of sustainability for the Essex Region. In 2016, we worked toward organizational sustainability in the following ways:

Friends of Point Pelee and Essex County Nature, the sign profiles 36 species of water birds, and adds another tourism amenity to the Shorebird Habitat, which is unique in North America.

• Improved safety and accessibility along the shores of Lake Erie at the John R. Park Homestead as the boardwalk was removed and a limestone pathway installed. Accessibility at Hillman Marsh and Holiday Beach outdoor classrooms were also improved this year with significant upgrades.

• Improved visitor services at Holiday Beach Conservation Area with the creation of a rental cottage. This beautiful, private three-bedroom facility on the shore of Lake Erie, just steps from the beach, will be available to rent in 2017. A utility hub was also created at the park to better serve those renting the facility for weddings and other events.

• Demonstrated significant return on investment. Over the last ten years, ERCA has received $26.5 million in levy funding; and in return, secured more than $35 million in additional funding for municipalities and the region. This is a net benefit to the Essex Region of almost $10 million, and is over and above in-kind contributions from partners and the programs and services that we implement to benefit our regional environment.

• Upgraded our network infrastructure and servers to improve efficiency and capacity.

9

erCa aCCOuntaBiLity 2016

2014 2015 2016Permits Requested 615 753 983Permits Issued 588 560 808Clearances Issued 113 100 97Request for Information Letters Issued 159 242 273Permits to Take Water Applications 6 3 4Appeals 11 13 15Appeals in CA favour 11 13 15Violations Issued 16 14 19Average Response time for permits Minor Development 8 days 15 days 10 days

Major Development 29 days 30 days 21 daysAlteration to Waterways 11 days 15 days 9 days

Number of structures located in the floodplain 10,000 10,000 10,000Kilometres of watercourses with floodplain mapping completed 609 609 609Hectares (area) digitally mapped delineating the CA Regulation Limit 38,304 38,304 38,304Hectares (area) digitally mapped delineating the flooding hazard limit (flood plains)

38,304 38,304 38,304

Metres of shoreline protected from flooding and erosion 140 m 250 m 245 m$ Value of Water/Infrastructure Contributions to Municipalities 494,000 772,500 287,500Flood Messages Watershed Conditions 7 6 2

Flood Watches 7 10 7Flood Warnings 0 3 3Wind Warnings 1 0 0

• Improvements were made to the existing Property and information database, which improves processing and ultimately reduces turnaround times for permits and planning applications. The Authority continues to make system enhancements to accomodate the demand for digital exchange of information with applicants and consultants.

Implemented a new database to facilitate customer tree orders and to track outcomes of tree plantings and naturalization projects. By understanding project outcomes and plant survivability, resources can be directed to projects with better cost/benefit ratios.

CLIMATE CHANGE

The following provides a three-year ‘by the numbers’ comparison of achievements.*Some metrics were not calculated prior to 2015

10

2014 2015 2016Water Quality Improvement Projects Implemented

Agriculture/Other (total) 20 26 88Detroit River Watersheds 8 6 10Lake Erie Watersheds 8 10 19Lake St. Clair Watersheds 4 10 12Great Lakes Agricultural Priority Subwatershed Stewardship Initiative

- - 47

Number of wells decomissioned 3 4 9Number of landowners participating Agriculture/Other - 30 58Number of surface water quality monitoring stations 19 71 77Number of ground water quality monitoring stations 9 8 8Number of benthos monitoring stations 8 15 8

2014 2015 2016Total Landholdings (Hectares) 1,628 1,669.6 1,669.6Hectares of recreational land owned and managed * - 1,036.8 1,036.8Total hectares under forest management plans * - 44.39 44.39Total Taxes for CA Landholdings $53,256 $49,166 $75,290Land Acquisition in Reporting Year (in acres) 0 51 0Value of acquisitions (Fair Market Value) 0 $508,000 0Total Acres of Habitat Restored 152 142.5 103.5Number and Acres of Trees 134,000

trees125,450

trees 115 ac

101,000 trees 87 ac

Number and Acres of Wetlands 1 wetland1.25 ac

4 wetlands5 ac

5 wetlands5 ac

Number and Acres of Prairie 4 sites / 17.5 ac

8 sites / 22.5 ac

8 sites/11.5 ac

Number of landowners involved in restoration * - 209 214Trees planted by volunteers * - 2,912 2,603Native plants planted by volunteers * - 1,669 3,858

GREAT LAkES

LANDSCAPES & HABITATS

11

2014 2015 2016Planning Services - transactions/year 588 597 689Kilometres of Trails owned, managed & developed 79.6 79.6 95.1Number of volunteers 2,612 2,580 1,904Number of outreach events 38 33 35Number of schoolyard naturalization projects 11 7 3ERCA hosted special events 29 38 36Number of schools * - 78 96Number of unique education programs * - 285 294Number of students 7,314 9,538 9,986Number of public meetings/workshops 16 16 19Day Use Visitors to JRPH (estimated) 12,993 10,895 11,190Day Use Visitors to HBCA (estimated) 5,426 5,985 9,000Number of seasonal campsites purchased 65 72 69

2014 2015 2016Area of CA Jurisdiction 1,681.3

sq km1,681.3 sq km

1,681.3 sq km

Watershed Population 332,380 332,350 326,105Staff - Permanent and Long-Term Contract 30 34 36Staff - Special Grant and Short-Term Full Time Equivalent Contract 12 9 8Average Full Time Staff Length of Service 10 9 10Number of Local Committees, Boards and Advisory Panels with ERCA representation

21 25 27

Number of Provincial Committees, Boards and Advisory Panels with ERCA representation

18 26 26

Number of research studies with ERCA involvement * 8 8Number of unique visitors to our website * 55,000 68,591Number of Facebook followers * 1,617 2,424Number of Twitter followers * 2,003 2,428Number of Instagram followers (launched October 2016) 90Number of Youtube video views * 2,134 views

4,334 min

SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES

A STRONG, RESILIENT ORGANIZATION

12

WAGES/BENEFITS$3,519,857.00

CONSTRUCTION$2,062,851.08

PLANT MATERIALS/LANDOWNER

GRANTS $696,032.24

ASSET REPLACEMENT & MAJOR REPAIRS$581,750.00

PROJECT AND OPERATING SUPPLIES $511,713.60

ENGINEERING/CONSULTING/TECHNICAL $503,088.87

VEHICLE/TRAVEL/EQUIP'T USAGE $412,228.68

CORP SUPPORT/SHARED SERVICES $391,272.00

RENT/INS/TAXES/UTILITIES $332,204.00

DUES, AUDIT, LEGAL, BofD, INT/BK CHGS $120,376.88

2017 Projected Expenses- $9,131,374

TOTAL LEVY,$2,956,833.00

TOTAL MUNICIPAL SPECIAL LEVY, $729,403.64

PROVINCIALGRANTS, $1,471,686.00

FEDERAL GRANTS, $800,850.00

DONATIONS (ERCF AND OTHER), $1,158,565.00

OTHER INCL FEE FOR SVC, $1,988,119.39

2016 Projected Revenues-$9,167,367 2016 finanCiaL reVieW

2016 PrOjeCtedreVenueS $9,167,367

note: The 2016 Projected Revenues and Expenses graphs are based on information available as of January 13, 2017 and as such the numbers are subject to change. The unrestricted surplus is used to reduce the accumulated operating deficit, in accordance with the 2013 - 2017 Sustainability Plan. The graphs depict the types of expenses incurred by the Authority in 2016 and how those expenses were funded. The graphs are not intended to replace audited Financial Statements and readers interested in the financial condition of the Authority should consult Financial Statements, prepared in accordance with GAAP. Audited Financial Statements are available annually after June 30th and include all statements and schedules required for public sector entities.

2016 PrOjeCtedeXPenSeS $9,131,375

13

2016 at a GLanCeGreat places don’t just happen...

trees have been planted to increase green space.

Projects to improve water quality have been implemented.

events hosted to connect people with the place for life.

Students have been educated through outdoor education

programs about the importance of preserving our heritage and conserving our environment.

Awesome volunteers! Thank You.

Permits requested and reviewed to ensure

landowner protection.

Average permit response times for minor development

is 10 days.

Kilometres of trails were developed to connect communities to the

natural landscapes around them.

Metres of shoreline protected from flooding

and erosion.

acres of forest, tall grass prairie, and wetlands have been restored.

101,000

88 71

9,986

1,904

983

10

15.5

245103.5

14

Contact us360 Fairview Avenue WestSuite 311, Essex, ON, N8M 1Y6

P: 519.776.5209F: 519.776.8688W: www.essexregionconservation.ca

facebook.com/EssexRegionConservation

twitter.com/essexregionca

instagram.com/EssexRegionConservation

youtube.com/TheEssexRegionCA

Amherstburg / Essex / kingsville / Lakeshore / LaSalle / Leamington / Pelee Island / Tecumseh / Windsor

Cover image by Rene Tremblay

2016 Staff Service Awards

Essex RegionConservation Authority

sustaining the place for life

Beth Johnston

Finance and HR Administrator

15 years

Beth Johnston

Finance and HR Administrator

15 years

Kevin Money

Director, Conservation Services

15 years

Kevin Money

Director, Conservation Services

15 years

2016 Conservation Awards



John R. Park Homestead Award –01

Irene Moore Davis



John R. Park Homestead Award –

Irene Moore Davis

Conservation Farm Award–

J. Brush Farms Ltd.01



Conservation Farm Award –

J. Brush Farms Ltd.

01Education Award –

Henry Denotter



Education Award –

Henry Denotter

Volunteer Award –01

Tom Henderson



Volunteer Award –

Tom Henderson

Volunteer Award –01

Robert and Andrew Pula

Photo by Dan JanisseWindsor Star



Volunteer Award –

Rob and Andrew Pula

Volunteer Organization Award –01

Union Gas Limited

Photo by Rebecca WrightWindsor Star



Volunteer Organization Award –

Union Gas Limited

Active in the Place for Life Achievement Award –01

Carrie Lee



Active in the Place for Life Achievement Award

Carrie Lee

Environmental Achievement Award–01

Caldwell First Nation



Environmental Achievement Award

Caldwell First Nation

Robert Pulleyblank Award for Municipal Environmental Achievement – 01

Town of Essex

01 01



Robert Pulleyblank Award for Municipal Environmental Achievement -

Town of Essex

Dennis Chase Staff Award

01Dennis Chase Staff Award –

01

Candice Kondratowicz



Dennis Chase Staff Award

Candice Kondratowicz

For digital versions of tonight’s publications, please visit:

erca.org/agm

Conservation Award Presentation

Tonight marks the 25th anniversary of our Conservation Awards. Once again this year, we are

delighted to recognize organizations and individuals who have made a difference in sustaining

and enriching the Place for Life. Gary Snyder, described as the 'laureate of Deep Ecology’, once

said :“Find your place on the planet. Dig in, and take responsibility from there.” Those we honour

tonight have certainly done just that.

John R. Park Homestead Award Winner – Irene Moore Davis

The John R. Park Homestead Award recognizes outstanding contributions to the preservation

and interpretation of human and natural history in the Essex Region. Recognized for her

longstanding and tireless contributions toward the preservation of Black history in our

community, this year, we are pleased to honour Irene Moore Davis.

Irene has spearheaded numerous public commemorations and intensive research into Windsor

and Essex County’s Black History. She is frequently consulted by the media for her expertise in

Black history, which is such an important part of our Canadian heritage. She credits her mother

and grandmother as ‘two great local community historians’ who trained her and inspired her

passion.

She is a founding member and Past President of the Essex County Black Historical Research

Society, and serves on the Boards of the North American Black Historical Museum and the

Northstar Cultural Community Centre. She served on the Underground Railroad Monument

Committee, and in 2015, was awarded the prestigious University of Windsor History

Department’s Community Heritage Medal.

She is presently involved with the African-Canadian Roads to Freedom Project, helping the

Greater Essex County District School Board integrate African-Canadian history into its

curriculum. Irene is one of the contributing authors to A Fluid Frontier: Slavery, Resistance, and

the Underground Railroad in the Detroit River Borderland, which was launched in 2016. This

book explores the experiences of our region’s freedom-seekers and advocates.

History professor Miriam Wright once said Moore Davis’ contributions to enhancing a broad

understanding of Black history in the Windsor area are varied, invaluable, and enduring. She

said: “The history of black settlement to this region is important. It’s a national and international

story, and we’re right at the heart of it. There are so many people and stories out there but in an

aging community stories start to fragment. Irene is reaching out to these people and recording

their stories before they are lost forever.” For Irene’s lifelong dedication to preserving this

important part of our region’s – and indeed our Country’s – history, we are delighted to

recognize her with the John. R. Park Homestead Award.

Conservation Farm Award Winner – J. Brush Farms

The Conservation Farm Award is presented in conjunction with the Essex Soil & Crop

Improvement Association and is awarded each year to the farming operation which best

displays conservation minded farming practices. The nominated farms are evaluated on tillage

practices, crop rotation, chemical use and storage, knowledge of fertility programs, Best

Management Practices and overall farm maintenance.

We are pleased to recognize J. Brush Farms Ltd. of Harrow as the 2016 winner. Jim Brush

operates the farming operation along with his father John, and sons Jim and Chris. They have

participated in the Canada-Ontario Environmental Farm Plan program, the Great Lakes

Agricultural Stewardship Initiative and the Essex Region Conservation Authority’s Clean Water ~

Green Spaces program to implement many of the Best Management Practices on their farms.

Some of these practices include cover crops; and a combination of mulch till, strip till and no-till

cropping. Precision soil sampling and variable rate fertilizer application helps to maximize crop

yields and protect water quality.

Windbreaks, rock chutes and buffer strips also reduce soil erosion to protect soil health and

water quality. The farm also features a 10 acre mature woodlot which has been preserved for

the family’s enjoyment and that of future generations. Congratulations to the Brush family, the

winners of the 2016 Conservation Farm Award.

Education – Henry Denotter

Henry Denotter has been recognized in the past for his dedication to conservation farming

practices. This year, we honour him with the Education Award for his efforts in reaching out to

engage other landowners in agricultural best management practices, helping to educate non-

agricultural landowners about the importance of farming to our region, and sharing his

knowledge and expertise with ERCA staff, students, and a broad variety of regional residents.

Mr. Denotter was an early adopter of Conservation Farming Practices, and has worked diligently

over the years to ensure that water and wind erosion Best Management Practices have been

implemented at their family farm. He has also educated and encouraged other farmers to adopt

these practices. In fact, several years ago, he appeared in an ERCA produced Public Service

Announcement encouraging the agricultural community to implement these types of practices.

His nominator describes Henry as an innovator: a farmer on the forefront of new technologies

who shares his knowledge with agricultural and non-agricultural landowners. Most recently, he

has been an important liaison in helping ERCA to administer the Great Lakes Agricultural

Stewardship Priority Subwatershed project in Wigle Creek. He also always goes the extra mile to

educate ERCA’s water quality team about various farming techniques and practices, helping us

to better understand a variety of perspectives.

Recognizing the importance of helping to educate the next generation, Henry hosted over 100

students at his farm this past spring, to demonstrate farming practices and agricultural

technology at the Western Lake Erie Student Conference.

He’s been a participant in and strong proponent of the Canada-Ontario Environmental Farm

Plan program, and a long time member of the Essex Soil & Crop Improvement Association

where he served as Director and President. For his continued dedication to educating people

about sustainable agricultural practices, it is our pleasure to recognize Henry Denotter with the

Conservation Award for Education.

Volunteer – Tom Henderson

Tom Henderson‘s volunteer efforts have gone on for decades. He has mentored many by

planting thousands of native trees, and leading and participating in countless river cleanups, all

of which have contributed to the Essex Region’s improving environment

More than 25 years ago, Tom helped establish the Little River Enhancement Group,

affectionately known as ‘Lil REG. The work of this group has won much recognition for their

positive environmental outcomes, as well as educating the public regarding the importance of

the Little River to our community. Thanks in large part to the volunteer efforts of Tom and the

group, this watershed is now flourishing with a growing abundance of flora and fauna.

Tom has dedicated much of his retired life to continuing his environmental volunteerism. He

has been involved in the Detroit River Canadian Cleanup since the late 90s, and continues to

serve as Chair of its Public Advisory Council. He is an effective communicator, and is regularly

in contact with federal, provincial and city officials to request and provide information regarding

issues in our local environment. He has attended countless open houses and meetings of

environmental interest about the Little River and Detroit River Watersheds, and has been

especially vigilant in his efforts to bring attention to the importance of Ojibway Shores.

Tom Henderson has the ability and credibility to bring community environmentalists together to

pool their resources in a successful effort to improve the Essex region as our Place for Life. He is

a sincere and diligent environmental steward. His nominators state: “It has been an honour to

work with Tom improving the ecosystem health of the Little River and Detroit River Watersheds.”

For more than 25 years of dedicated volunteerism in improving the environment of our region,

we are delighted to recognize Mr. Tom Henderson.

Volunteers – Rob Pula & Andrew Pula

Robert and Andrew Pula are dedicated volunteers and long-time supporters of ERCA and the

Place for Life.

When ERCA first explored the idea of hosting the South Coast Adventure Race in partnership

with the Rotary Club of Windsor-St. Clair, Robert and Andrew immediately stepped up to

volunteer their involvement, and this exciting event would not be possible without their

incredible expertise.

As long-time adventure racers, they put their experience to good use by dedicating hundreds of

hours planning and developing the unique race courses, which highlight natural places and

conservation areas throughout the region. The race welcomes participants from all over, helping

to put a spotlight on the unique ecosystems and landscape of the Essex region. They

successfully spread their love of adventure racing with free workshops, inspiring others to

connect to nature and commit to healthy living.

As a teacher at Belle River High School, Andrew engages his students on environmental issues.

Last year, he led his Specialist High Skills Major students in the ICE training program, a first in

our region. The program challenged students to tackle environmental issues, with the guidance

of ERCA staff, through the lens of Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship. Andrew brought

his class to the first Western Lake Erie Student Conference, which highlighted the many career

and educational opportunities tied to this important ecosystem. From 2007 to 2016, he

volunteered his time on the Source Water Protection committee, where his experience and

knowledge helped promote the protection of our local drinking water sources.

Robert, as founder and owner of Kinetic Konnection, is also a regional leader in connecting our

citizens to healthy and active lifestyles. Rob and Kinetic Konnection were sponsors of the first

Holiday Beach Hawk Run, which raises funds for one of ERCA’s premier conservation areas.

Alongside his donation of time, Rob supports the SCAR through financial contributions,

donations of wellness products for event participants, and prizes for winning teams. Beginning

in 2012, he took the lead in organizing the local Walk for Arthritis, an annual event that has

raised millions of dollars nationally. He continues to provide leadership and resources to this

important fundraiser, and connect people to nature through this walking event.

These are just a few of the brothers’ highlights. Rob and Andrew, who both have young families,

are truly inspiring examples of volunteers in our region. They each contribute hundreds of

hours each year to connecting people of all ages to our natural landscape and encouraging

them to be healthy and active in the Place for Life. It is our honour to recognize them with

Conservation Volunteer awards.

Volunteer Organization – Union Gas Limited

Union Gas Limited has been providing volunteers, as well as financial support, for a variety of

environmental efforts and initiatives over the past 20 years. One of our first collaborative efforts

was to create a Conservation Areas guide in the late 90s.

In 2000, volunteers from Union Gas helped us to connect children from the City core with nature

through the first Urban Conservation Challenge. For 13 years, Union Gas staff volunteers have

provided key support to the Essex Region Children’s Water Festival, helping to over 44,000

students to date learn about the critical importance of our water resources.

In 2011, Union Gas provided staff volunteers who used their talents to significantly refresh

ERCA’s donated portable classroom at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area. A few years later, they

again stepped up to the plate to provide volunteers and financial support to help refurbish the

portable at Holiday Beach. Because of their support, thousands of students each year can

comfortably use these facilities for conservation education.

Union Gas volunteers participate as a Green Team in the Earth Day Tree Planting event, helping

to plant nearly 2,000 trees annually for the benefit of our region’s environment. They are also a

long-time sponsor of and participants in the CSC Bike Tour. They have helped us to provide

Nature in Education to nearly 10,000 students annually since 2009.

Union Gas is a strong corporate steward in our community. Their generous support and long-

time partnership with ERCA and our Foundation continues to help to build a more sustainable

environment in the Place for Life. We are grateful for their many volunteer efforts, and are

delighted to recognize Union Gas Limited with the Conservation Award for a Volunteer

Organization.

Active in the Place for Life Achievement Award – Carrie Lee

The newly introduced Active in the Place for Life Achievement Award recognizes an individual

who has demonstrated dedication to connecting to nature through participation in the slate of

Essex Region Conservation’s active events. These events highlight the amazing natural areas the

Windsor/Essex/Pelee Island region has to offer, while raising funds and awareness of the

ongoing conservation work happening throughout the Place for Life. The first ever recipient of

this award is Carrie Lee.

Carrie is an avid cyclist, runner, and triathlete. She has participated in a wide range of athletic

endeavors and continues to devote time and effort towards her training, utilizing a variety of

trails and venues in the Essex region.

In 2016, she participated in three out of four of the Essex Region Conservation active events. In

June, she and a partner tackled the challenging South Coast Adventure Race. The duo trekked,

cycled, paddled, and navigated their way through their first ever adventure race, which featured

over 70 kilometres of the Region’s trails, waterways, conservation areas, and green spaces.

In August, she ran the Wet & Wild Hawk Run, placing second in her age group at this annual 5K

run which raises funds for conservation projects at Holiday Beach. The very next month,

alongside hundreds of cyclists, she cycled 70km as part of the Canada South Coast Bike Tour to

experience our natural environment while supporting trail development.

Not only has Carrie participated in these events with great enthusiasm, she has also encouraged

her friends and family members to join her, making her an ambassador for active living in the

Place for Life. We are very pleased to present Carrie Lee with the first Active in the Place for Life

Achievement Award.

Environmental Achievement – Caldwell First Nation

It is our honour to recognize the Caldwell First Nation with the Award for Environmental

Achievement. Point Pelee and Pelee Island are at the heart of Caldwell First Nation’s ancestral

territory. As they always have, Caldwell First Nation continues to work in harmony with Mother

Earth to preserve, protect, and utilize the wealth of her resources. Essex Region Conservation is

proud to have partnered with the Nation on a number of environmental projects.

Caldwell First Nation has been a tremendous partner in the management of Hillman

Marsh. Some of their members have been trained in Marsh Monitoring, and were also key

partners in the recent project to control phragmites in the East Cell. On their own property

within the Marsh, the Caldwell has undertaken habitat restoration projects such as installing nest

boxes for waterfowl populations.

We are thankful to have been invited to participate in Caldwell First Nation education initiatives

that they organize regularly to better connect members and, specifically, youth with the

environment. Last spring, Chief Hillier was a featured speaker at the first Western Lake Erie

Student Conference, where she spoke about water security and our collective responsibility to

protect it for future generations.

Caldwell First Nation youth members have participated in an environmental leadership training

program at Point Pelee National Park, to further foster generational environmental

stewardship. As well, Caldwell First Nation has been extremely generous in helping us to

connect the public to the environment at Hillman Marsh, allowing us to use their lands for

birding initiatives and our South Coast Adventure Race.

Most recently, ERCA and Caldwell First Nation have partnered to initiate a 10 hectare restoration

project at the mouth of Sturgeon Creek. This winter, all of the docks and piers at this former

marina site will be removed and restored. This project will create new coastal wetland habitat,

which is lacking in our region, creating habitat for multiple species at risk. For their continued

achievements in protecting and improving the environment in the Place for Life, we are

delighted to recognize the Caldwell First Nation and Chief Louise Hillier with this Conservation

Award.

Robert Pulleyblank Award for Municipal Environmental Achievement – Town of Essex

The Town of Essex has long been dedicated to contributing to the place for life, and are

especially recognized as a regional leader in trail development. With a contribution of $100,000,

Essex was key in helping the Essex Region Conservation Foundation secure the $1 million total

needed to construct the Cypher Systems Group Greenway. This helped to create a chain

reaction of momentum that ultimately led to construction of the long-awaited trail, which will be

opened in the coming months. The Town also significantly contributed to the construction of

the first 6 kms of this trail, built in 2013. Essex has continued to demonstrate leadership

related to regional active transportation and has built many new cycling facilities to create a

safer, healthier and more connected community.

They were also amongst the first municipalities to embrace low impact development, with the

creation of the Harrow Rain Garden, the first engineered community rain garden in the region.

This amenity helps protect properties from flooding, protects streams and lakes from pollutants

in urban runoff, and provides habitat.

Sustainable planning is also a top priority for the Town, which has strongly supported initiatives

brought forward through the Inter-Municipal Planning Consultation Committee, such as

Stormwater and Environmental Impact Assessment guidelines. The Town of Essex was the major

contributor to the Canard River flood control project, which was undertaken to lower the flood

levels by re-establishing the natural channel. More recently, the Town has invested significantly

in sewer separations to improve capacity and utilize the existing sewage lagoons. This helps to

alleviate flooding and lessens contamination threats to downstream watercourses.

The municipality is also committed to improving the habitat values of our landscape, and

initiated a Legacy Tree Program in 2013. The program allows the graduating class at each

elementary school in Essex to plant a tree and present it as a gift to the Senior Kindergarten

class. The program helps create a legacy of environmental awareness over the student’s

academic life, encouraging them to take pride in their community by enhancing and beautifying

green spaces.

In 2014, the Town collaborated with us to host a community tree planting and a 12 acre

restoration project in Colchester. In total, over 22,000 trees were planted through this project,

enhancing aesthetics while increasing biodiversity and wildlife habitat.

There’s no question that the Town of Essex has made significant advancement in making our

region the Place for Life, and we are pleased to honour them with the Robert Pulleyblank Award

for Municipal Environmental Achievement.

Dennis Chase Staff Award – Candice Kondratowicz

The Dennis Chase Staff Award honours longtime staff member Dennis Chase and recognizes those

who demonstrate the traits that Dennis upheld: dedication, commitment, conscientiousness,

kindness to colleagues, enthusiasm for work, pride in a job well done, and good humour. We’d like

to take a moment to recognize Dennis’ family, who as part of the ERCA family, are with us tonight.

This year, it is an honour to present this award to Candice Kondratowicz. Candice serves as the

Administrative Associate for Corporate Services, and embodies the traits that Dennis embraced.

She is dedicated to and incredibly conscientious about her work. Despite being pulled in many

directions while juggling dozens of priorities at one time, she does so with a quiet kindness to

and consideration of her colleagues.

Candice serves as the main point of contact for ERCA Board members, the Essex Region

Conservation Foundation Board of Directors, and municipal Councillors, mayors and CAOs. She

assists ERCA’s General Manager in managing his schedule and preparing for his many meetings.

She is an essential member of both the Water Quality Team and Source Protection Committee,

ensuring that reporting deadlines are adhered to.

Candice is a conduit of information. She is ensure accounts payable are accurately processed,

assists staff with our in house and cell phone systems, oversees our uniform program and other

duties to numerous to detail.

Even with these many responsibilities, Candice takes her own personal time to give back to the

community. In 2014, she was part of ERCA’s four-person Heartbreaker Mud Run team – the

ERCA Marsh Warriors – to raise funds for Cardiac Research. She participates in our Hats on for

Healthcare event. Each holiday season, she organizes our staff adoption of a family from

Children’s Aid Society. She liaises with the CAS to determine the family’s needs, circulates the

information to staff, collects the donations, and undertakes the shopping and delivery of the

wish list to make the Christmas season brighter for a local family in need.

Here are a few things that her colleagues had to say about her:

“She is always lovely and genuine. She greets each person with a smile and a ‘How can I

help?’ attitude.”

“As a new employee, Candice was welcoming and accommodating and provided me with

lots of support and guidance – and continues to do so.”

“The thing about Candice that I find truly remarkable is her constant and steadily positive

nature. I know that Candice, like the rest of us, has days that are very stressful with tight

deadlines or unexpected issues cropping up, but the thing about Candice is that you never

know when those days are. She is always the same – smiling, steady and strong, no matter

what pressures might be upon her in any given moment. She is truly one of ERCA’s great

treasures!”

We agree, and are grateful for the opportunity to honour her with this prestigious award.

Ladies and Gentlemen, please join in a final round of applause for all of tonight’s honourees, who

have dedicated time and effort to ensuring that our region – our home – is the Place for Life.

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