WOODLAND BEACH PARK MASTER PLAN Documents/Woodland Beach Master Pla… · Woodland Beach Park...
Transcript of WOODLAND BEACH PARK MASTER PLAN Documents/Woodland Beach Master Pla… · Woodland Beach Park...
WWOOOODDLLAANNDD BBEEAACCHH PPAARRKK MMAASSTTEERR PPLLAANN
TINY BEACHES ROAD TOWNSHIP OF TINY, COUNTY OF SIMCOE
prepared for
CORPORATION OF
THE TOWNSHIP OF TINY
January 2009
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 BASIS OF THE MASTER PLAN ........................................................................................................................ 2 1.3 CONSULTATION PROCESS ............................................................................................................................. 2
2.0 WOODLAND BEACH PARK ...................................................................................................................... 4
2.1 PURPOSE ....................................................................................................................................................... 4 2.2 FEATURES ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
3.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS ....................................................................................... 4
3.1 VEGETATION AND VEGETATION COMMUNITIES ............................................................................................ 4
4.0 PARK USERS ................................................................................................................................................. 9
5.0 PARK ISSUES ................................................................................................................................................ 9
5.1 ANALYSIS OF ISSUES ..................................................................................................................................... 9 5.1.1 Vegetation Restoration ............................................................................................................................ 9 5.1.2 Parking .................................................................................................................................................. 10 5.1.3 Facility Capacity ................................................................................................................................... 11 5.1.4 Cost of Upkeep ....................................................................................................................................... 11 5.1.5 By-law Enforcement ............................................................................................................................... 12 5.1.6 Facilities ................................................................................................................................................ 12 5.1.7 Park Access ............................................................................................................................................ 12 5.1.8 Pets and Animals ................................................................................................................................... 13 5.1.9 Erosion ................................................................................................................................................... 13 5.1.10 Beach Maintenance ........................................................................................................................... 14
6.0 THE PLAN .................................................................................................................................................... 15
7.0 STEWARDSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ......................................................................................................... 19
8.0 THE FUTURE .............................................................................................................................................. 19
9.0 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................. 22
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Key Plan of Study Area ................................................................................................................. 1 Figure 2. Existing Environmental Features ................................................................................................... 8 Figure 3. Woodland Beach Master Plan ..................................................................................................... 18
LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Comments from Information Session #1 ........................................................................................ 3 Table 2. Comments from Information Session #2 ........................................................................................ 4 Table 3. Ecological Land Classification Communities in the Study Area .................................................... 6 Table 4. Summary of Issues for the Master Plan ........................................................................................ 11 Table 5. Short Term Recommendations ..................................................................................................... 16 Table 6. Long Term Recommendations ...................................................................................................... 19
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page ii
LGL Limited environmental research associates ● John D. Bell Associates Landscape Architects
APPENDICES Appendix A. Information Session Notices Appendix B. Public Comment Forms Appendix C. Working Vascular Plant List Appendix D. Stewardship Principles Appendix E. Photographic Record
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
Woodland Beach Park (Park) is located in Part of Lot 27, Plan 670, Concession 2, fronting on Tiny
Beaches Road. The Park has a total area of approximately 0.81 ha (2.0 acres) with 115.0 m (377 feet) of
shoreline on Georgian Bay. Woodland Beach is one of five significant, municipally‐owned facilities
identified by the Township Official Plan. Woodland Beach, a community within the Township of Tiny,
surrounds the municipal park. A Township Fire hall is located in the eastern portion of the Township
property, east of the Park facility. A mixture of seasonal and permanent residential, commercial and
institutional uses is found around the Park. The area east of the Park forms the commercial core of
Woodland Beach. A key plan, identifying the location of Woodland Beach Park, is presented in Figure 1.
FIGURE 1 – KEY PLAN
Woodland Beach has experienced significant pressure from increased use, which has resulted in impacts
to both the ecological features of the Park, as well as to the level of enjoyment and access for local
residents. The Park provides residents of Woodland Beach, the Township of Tiny and other members of
the public with access to the waterfront.
The Park provides users with a landscape comprising shoreline, dunes and wooded areas. Given the
increase in use, and the sensitivity of the ecology, it is imperative that this Park have its future growth
guided by a Master Plan. Due, in part, to its wonderful location and accessibility, use of the Park has
increased over time.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 2
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This Master Plan provides the Township of Tiny and its residents with: 1) the rationale for this Plan; 2) a
summary of existing ecological conditions found in and around Woodland Beach Park; 3) details of the
consultation process used to gain input from members of the public; and, 4) a set of short and long term
objectives that can be used to provide a strategic direction for the Park into the future. This Master Plan
incorporates public comments, along with sound ecological, planning and landscaping principles aimed
at creating a sustainable and functional park that will become a showpiece for area residents. This Plan
seeks to develop a framework for the Park which may result in the creation of other, complementary
efforts, each seeking the same objective.
1.2 BASIS OF THE MASTER PLAN
The Township of Tiny Official Plan identifies Woodland Beach and four other facilities as municipal parks
that form part of the Township’s Open Space network (Section B3.2). The principal objectives of the
Open Space designation are:
To ensure that the use and development of open space lands is consistent with the ‘environment‐first’ philosophy of the Official Plan.
To ensure that all open space lands are used in a manner that recognizes their capacity for public use.
To ensure that the impacts of the use of the open space lands on adjacent land uses and the character of the surrounding neighbourhood are minimized.
To ensure that the residents of the Township have access to a properly planned and accessible open space network
This Master Plan addresses each of these objectives in a real and direct manner.
The Official Plan also notes that “It is also a policy of this Plan that, before any major changes in funding
or the level of service in each of the community parks are made, a long range plan be prepared for each.
Such a long range plan should review the current and proposed functions of the park and the type and
scale of the improvements required to ensure that the park meets the community’s needs and is cost
effective to operate.” (Section B3.4.4 ‐ Major Community Parks in the Settlements)
This provides the basis and clear policy direction for the preparation of this Master Plan.
1.3 CONSULTATION PROCESS
The development of Master Plans incorporates an open and collaborative process of communication
with members of the public. Combining this public input with sound ecological, planning and
landscaping principles results in the creation of a Master Plan that is both consistent with the objectives
of Township of Tiny planning policy as well as viable from a local stewardship perspective. To achieve
this end, two information sessions were held: one on July 26, 2007 and the second on September 15,
2007. Residents were notified via advertisements in the Midland Free Press, posting on the Township of
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Tiny website, as well as providing Notices to area businesses for public posting. Members of the
Woodland Beach Homeowners Association also assisted notifying residents using their own networks.
Copies of the notices for Information Session 1 and 2 are presented in Appendix A.
Information Session #1 was conducted at Woodland Beach on Saturday, July 26, 2007. The format was
informal, with a question and answer period following a brief presentation on the purpose of the
meeting. Comment forms were circulated to those in attendance during this Session, with a request
that they be submitted to the Township for review as part of the Master Plan process. A total of 21
comment forms were received. A summary of the comments received is presented in Table 1. A copy of
the comment form is presented in Appendix B.
TABLE 1.
SUMMARY OF COMMENTS FOR WOODLAND BEACH – INFORMATION SESSION #1
Topic Issue/Comment
1. Ecology Restoration required
Natural vegetation ruined by heavy use
Storm water drainage has created problem
Need improved stewardship
2. By‐law enforcement Needs to be improved
Generally good
3. Parking Parking on weekends is a problem
Illegal parking on streets and on lawns during peak periods
Make parking permits available at general store
4. Facilities (ie. washroom, parking spaces, garbage)
Existing facilities are adequate
Destruction of facilities by non‐residents
Need additional garbage and recycling cans
Garbage pick‐up needs to be better
5. Access ATV’s, motorcycles ruin beach
Senior/handicapped access is difficult
6. Cost of Upkeep Residents pay, should enjoy the benefits
Destruction by non‐residents increases costs for residents
7. Pets Dogs must be kept on leashes
Need better ‘poop n scoop’ in place
8. New Structures Would like to see a play structure for children
Gazebo or outside meeting place desirable
Information Session #2 was conducted on Saturday, September 15, 2007 in the study area. This session
involved a workshop format, where the draft Master Plan was presented, followed by break‐out
sessions dealing with the environment and landscape architecture. Comment forms were again
provided to those in attendance, with a request that they be returned in September, prior to the Plan
being finalized. A total of five comment forms were received. A summary of the comments is presented
in Table 2.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 4
LGL Limited environmental research associates ● John D. Bell Associates Landscape Architects
TABLE 2. SUMMARY OF COMMENTS FOR WOODLAND BEACH – INFORMATION SESSION #2
Topic Comment
1. Parking Agree that the parking should not be increased
Pay parking is a good idea to fund future park operations
Open parking area could be delineated with boulders
2. Access Boardwalk is a great idea
Fencing should be installed to reduce public access
3. Maintenance Increased garbage pick‐up during July and August
4. Erosion Erosion from the former boat ramp needs to be addressed
5. Park Capacity Capacity can only be limited by parking
Picnic tables need to be in clearly defined areas and properly secured to the ground (i.e. chained and locked)
6. By‐law Enforcement Increased patrols during peak periods are needed
7. Stewardship Use information from “Caring for Our Beaches” workshop
2.0 WOODLAND BEACH PARK
2.1 PURPOSE
Woodland Beach Park provides an informal setting for users to access the shoreline of Georgian Bay for
recreational and/or other social purposes.
2.2 FEATURES
Woodland Beach Park currently offers users several unique and beautiful features:
Clean and safe access to Georgian Bay via a
sandy beach
17 paved parking spaces for “permit holders”
20 paved ‘open’ parking spaces
Manicured grounds Paved public parking
Picnic facilities Male/female washroom facilities
Fences to delineate parking areas and restrict
vehicular access
Municipally maintained garbage facilities
3.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
3.1 Vegetation and Vegetation Communities
In order to chart a course for the future of the Park, it was necessary to determine what existed
previously and today. To accomplish this, the Park was surveyed for the variety and type of vegetation
present as well as the vegetation communities that exist. The survey was conducted using the provincial
standard Ecological Land Classification (ELC) protocol, which involves mapping the study area based on
the vegetation community type and extent. The results of this mapping are presented in detail below.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 5
LGL Limited environmental research associates ● John D. Bell Associates Landscape Architects
A total of four vegetation communities are found in the study area:
Open Sand Dune Eco‐site (SD01): This beach ecosystem is found west of the Woodland Beach
Park property, at the edge of Georgian Bay. As a dynamic beach, this ELC community is
constantly under change from various natural forces, including wind, water and sun. Incoming
wave action deposits sand, while wind and rain wash sand out to the water.
Balsam Poplar Treed Dune Type (SDT1‐2): This beach ecosystem is located between the open
sand dunes and the more wooded area of the Park. Site investigations confirm that this
community is heavily impacted by park users, which has resulted in the displacement of several
areas of vegetation. Immediately north and south of the Park, this vegetation community
showed far less impact.
Scotch Pine Coniferous Plantation Type (CUP3‐3): Occupying generally the southern and
western portions of the Park, this community was planted and shows obvious signs of human
intervention. With most points of access going through this area, it will continue to see impacts
from users until improved management practices are put in place. Very little ground cover
exists in this community due to the lack of defined route(s) between the beach and parking.
Dry‐Fresh Red Oak Deciduous Forest Type (FOD1‐1): Occupying the northern and eastern
portions of the Park, this area shows less impact that the coniferous plantation as it is not
subject to the same high level of cultural impacts found in the Scotch Pine plantation. Very little
ground cover exists in this community due to the constant impact of users and the lack of
defined route(s) between the beach and parking.
While each of the ELC communities have been impacted by human activity, some of the communities
are more sensitive than others. The SDT1‐2 and SDO1 communities should be considered the most
sensitive, while the CUP3‐3 community provides the greatest opportunities for enhancement.
A summary of Ecological Land Classification communities in the study area is presented in Table 3. The
vascular working plant list for this project is presented in Appendix C.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 6
TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL LAND CLASSIFICATION VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
ELC Code ELC Vegetation
Community Species Association Community Characteristics
TERRESTRIAL – NATURAL/SEMI-NATURAL SDO1 Open Sand Dune Active rolling sand hills formed through
shoreline and Aeolian processes. Tree cover ≤ 60% (SD). Tree cover ≤ 25%; shrub cover ≤ 25% (O)
SDT1-2 Balsam Poplar Treed Dune
Canopy: Balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera) is abundant. Understory: Balsam poplar is abundant. Common Juniper (Juniperus communis) is occasional. Ground Cover: Canada bluegrass (Poa compressa) and Riverbank grape (Vitis riparia) are abundant.
Active rolling sand hills formed through shoreline and Aeolian processes. Tree cover ≤ 60% (SD). 25% < Tree cover ≤ 60% (T) Cover comprised of savannah to woodland. Relatively stable sand (1). Dominated by balsam poplar (-2).
FOD1-1 Dry-Fesh Red Oak Deciduous Forest
Canopy: Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) is abundant. Understory: Red Oak (Quercus rubra) is dominant. Ground Cover: Bush Honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera) and Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) are abundant.
Tree cover > 60 % (FO). Deciduous trees > 75 % of canopy cover (D). Moderately dry to fresh (1). Red Oak dominant (-1).
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 7
LGL Limited environmental research associates ● John D. Bell Associates Landscape Architects
TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL LAND CLASSIFICATION VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
ELC Code ELC Vegetation
Community Species Association Community Characteristics
TERRESTRIAL – CULTURAL CUP3-3 Scotch Pine
Coniferous Plantation Canopy: Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris) is dominant). Understory: Riverbank grape is abundant. Ground Cover: Canada bluegrass, red oak, smooth rose (Rosa blanda) and catchfly (Silene vulgaris) are abundant.
Tree cover > 60 percent, but planted (CUP). Coniferous trees > 75 percent of canopy cover (3). Community resulting from, or maintained by, anthropogenic-based influences.
SDO1
SDT1-2
CUP3-3
FOD1-1
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Vegetation Community Boundary
Open Sand Dune EcositeSD01
Balsam Poplar Treed Dune TypeSDT1-2
Dry - Fresh Red Oak Deciduous Forest Type
FOD1-1
Scotch Pine Coniferous PlantationType
CUP3-3
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Woodland BeachMaster Plan
Existing Conditions
Property Boundary
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 9
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4.0 PARK USERS
Presently the Park is used by many groups, including those residing in the following locations:
1. Community of Woodland Beach
2. Greater Township of Tiny
3. Simcoe County
4. Greater Toronto Area
While a municipal park is always considered a public use, the term public can mean many things. The
public can include the businesses and residents immediately adjacent to Woodland Beach, the
community of Woodland Beach, the Township of Tiny, or the general public. Public uses should not
exclude one or more groups from accessing the Park for any reason. However, in this instance, the
provincially approved Township Official Plan provides some direction on the meaning of ‘public’.
5.0 PARK ISSUES
The Park has several issues that need to be addressed in order to be maintained as a sustainable facility
for the local population. The issues identified most frequently by those surveyed include: vegetation
needs to be restored and/or re‐established (ecology); parking (ie. in‐park and outside); capacity of the
facility; cost of upkeep; by‐law enforcement; facilities (i.e. washrooms, picnic areas, garbage cans,
recycling cans, etc.); access; pets/animals; and, erosion.
Each of these issues has its own inherent interests and limitations. The list is provided in order, based on
responses received from the public, as well as background research and generally applied planning and
ecological principles.
5.1 Analysis of Issues
In general, those who provided input want the park to remain essentially unchanged. The public want
to see the beach and dune ecology restored and some easy and straightforward management tools put
in place towards achieving a sustainable natural park that residents and visitors alike will be proud of.
55..11..11 VVeeggeettaattiioonn RReessttoorraattiioonn
Vegetation in the Park beyond the beach has a full tree canopy cover, but a lack of defined routes for
beach and/or parking access has resulted in the destruction of most ground cover. This lack of
groundcover has lead to increased erosion, introduction and growth of non‐native vegetation and a
general disregard for the quality of natural features at this Park.
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Original Beach Ecology
55..11..22 PPaarrkkiinngg
Parking was identified as a significant issue by most of those who provided comments. The number of
parking spaces is sufficient for local residents. However, improper use of parking in the Park and illegal
parking on Township streets during peak periods has resulted in over‐crowding of the Park and a variety
of impacts to the local area, including safety of access.
As the Park is meant to provide Township residents with access to the beach, priority should be given to
residents using this facility. The Township has already provided permit parking along the adjacent
Township road, with a total of 17 spaces being provided for the general public. However, high levels of
use, lack of respect for the facilities provided and other factors have resulted in the public parking area
being used at over‐capacity. Improved design and delineation of approved parking spaces, including the
installation of barriers to keep vehicles off of grassed areas, will limit outside use of the Park and will
allow the natural vegetation to re‐establish over time.
Another recommendation is to install a “pay as you go” type metered parking system in the public area.
This would involve a single coin‐operated parking ticket dispenser system being located within this
public parking area. With improved by‐law enforcement, vehicles not displaying valid tickets would be
ticketed and/or towed. Township residents displaying valid parking permits would be exempt from
paying for this parking. This would both discourage the use of non‐traditional parking spaces as well as
limit the number of non‐residents using this facility.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 11
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55..11..33 FFaacciilliittyy CCaappaacciittyy
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) developed a set of criteria for the carrying capacity of beaches,
based on the scale of development proposed. In this instance, a park is identified as a Level 2 use,
having a low intensity of use, with basic facilities. While this document is somewhat dated (dated early
1990’s) it provides a framework for setting beach capacity and a useful reference in the preparation of
this Master Plan. This information is presented in Table 4.
TABLE 4.
DRY BEACH CAPACITY
Intensity of Facility Development Approx. Allocation of Dry Beach Per Person
1. High, a major attraction with full facility service: usually in development zones
9 sq. metres p.p.
2. Moderate: a minor beach attraction with basic facility service, usually in access zones
23 sq. metres p.p.
3. Low: an incidental beach attraction with rudimentary facility service, wherever beach exists and invites use.
46 sq. metres p.p.
Dimensions taken from the Master Plan drawing (John D. Bell Associates, 2007) suggest that the
dimensions of the beach area are approximately: 88 m long (north‐south) by 33 m wide (east‐west).
This provides a total dry beach area of 2,904 m2. When applying the Moderate density, this works out
to 127 (126.6) people. Given that 20 open parking spaces and 17 permit parking spaces are available,
this provides for 37 spaces. Assuming that, on average, three people per vehicle, fully used parking
spaces would provide for 111 persons, or 87% of the total capacity. When local residents, who access
the park via walking or bicycle are added in, the park would be over‐capacity during peak periods. Add
to this illegal parking on Township roads, and capacity is further exceeded.
Using this general reference tool demonstrates that this facility is over‐capacity during peak periods,
primarily during summer long weekends. This over‐capacity would lead to increased impacts to the
existing vegetation, sand dunes and facilities located in the park and adjacent beach.
55..11..44 CCoosstt ooff UUppkkeeeepp
Several comments received noted that Township residents pay for the upkeep of this Park, but are not
generally responsible for littering and the general destruction of the area. Introducing the paid parking,
as mentioned in 5.1.3, would lead to fewer non‐resident users of the Park, which would likely reduce the
level of upkeep required. In the end, the Township would not be forced to raise local taxes to maintain
appropriate levels of maintenance.
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55..11..55 BByy--llaaww EEnnffoorrcceemmeenntt
While most people agreed that current levels of By‐law enforcement were adequate, this enforcement
could be used in a more effective way by increasing levels during peak periods (i.e. summer weekends).
Regular patrol of Woodland Beach by by‐law enforcement officers has lead to the issuance of parking
infractions.
55..11..66 FFaacciilliittiieess
Most comments noted that the current level of facilities is adequate for Township residents and new
facilities should not be introduced as they will result in higher user levels. Some suggestions for
improvements included installing and anchoring more garbage and recycling bins at defined access
points, as well as providing more picnic facilities in designated areas.
Example of Current Facilities
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Reducing the number and location of current access points as well as improving access for seniors
and/or the physically‐challenged were the primary comments. Reducing the number of access points
and better defining those that remain using wood chips, or similar natural material, would go a long way
to improving the quality of the natural features found in the Park. These access points should be well
signed and clearly visible to park users. Conversely, fencing off former access points as well as
ecologically sensitive areas will assist the enhancement of the Park over time.
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Provision of improved access for seniors and/or the physically challenged is a more difficult and
expensive issue to address. As sand is predominant in this area, a boardwalk, or other form of raised
walking platform would be required to allow strollers, walkers and wheelchairs access to the beach.
Current Park Access
55..11..88 PPeettss aanndd AAnniimmaallss
Pets should only be permitted on this public property if they are leashed and their owners are practiced
in the proper disposal of pet droppings. By‐law enforcement could focus on pet owners during peak
periods to improve compliance with this rule.
Some comments received noted that the Township does not permit the disposal of pet droppings in the
regular garbage. As part of this Master Plan, the Township should provide some form of disposal
containers for pet droppings, in order to address this issue.
55..11..99 EErroossiioonn
Inadequate storm water facilities have created soil erosion in several areas of the Park. The primary
area of erosion is located at the southern side of the entryway to the paved public parking area. The
source of this water seems to be roadside drainage from areas east of the Park. At present, the water
outlets to the Park in an uncontrolled fashion, which has lead to rills and gullies leading down‐gradient
to the beach.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 14
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Erosion within Park
To control erosion, an ex‐filtration pipe is recommended to be installed under the municipal road, with
connections to existing municipal storm sewers. This pipe would provide a settling area for surface
water drainage, which would be encouraged to infiltrate into the ground for filtering prior to re‐
emerging along the beach and entering Georgian Bay. Erosion is a serious issue and should be
considered a priority issue by the Township.
55..11..1100 BBeeaacchh MMaaiinntteennaannccee
Beach maintenance activities are required to provide a usable area for sunbathers. Beach maintenance
activities may include augmentation of beach material, removal of live or dead plant or animal material,
debris or mechanical raking. These activities may lead to erosion of beach materials, removal of riparian
vegetation beyond existing beach boundaries and introduction of deleterious substances from
improperly maintained equipment. The Township is required to maintain the beach on a regular basis
to uphold the recreational features that it offers.
The area where beach maintenance activities are to be conducted should be clearly delineated so that
there are no impacts to adjacent areas. Beach maintenance activities should be carried out in
accordance with federal and provincial legislation including the Fisheries Act. The Department of
Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) have prepared an Operational Statement to permit beach maintenance
activities without the need to secure an Authorization for Works or Undertakings under Subsection
35(1) of the Fisheries Act, provided several conditions are met. These conditions include:
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 15
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it is the maintenance of an existing public or community beach and does not include creating a
new beach;
maintenance activities do not include expanding the current size of the beach;
new beach material will not be placed below the ordinary high water mark; and,
the measures to protect fish and fish habitat prescribed in the Operational Statement are
followed.
In the past, the Township has provided a Notification Form to DFO for all beach maintenance activities
as a precaution.
6.0 THE PLAN
A Master Plan is intended to be an easily understood, workable document that will be used by people of
all backgrounds and abilities. As such, a Master Plan must be developed both in the public interest and
based on public input. This Woodland Beach Park Master Plan was created for the people of the
Township of Tiny.
The public interest is defined by the Township of Tiny Official Plan and reinforced by many of the
comments received from the public. The public, in this instance, is considered the residents of the
community of Woodland Beach and those residing in other areas of the Township. The public, including
those residing outside of the Township should not be excluded from using the park, nor can they be, but
rather the facilities and benefits of the Park should focus on the needs and values of Township residents.
Other facilities, including Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, Awenda Provincial Park and others, are
available to the general public and are managed accordingly.
Given that the Park should be focussed on the needs of the Township residents, and more specifically
those of Woodland Beach, the Master Plan process was based on input received from this public at
Information Session #1. Comments received from this Session, and recommended ways to address the
issues, are presented in Table 5.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 16
TABLE 5. ISSUES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Topic Implementation
1. Ecology Clearly define public areas
Install barriers (i.e. sand fencing) around sensitive areas such as the SDT1‐2 community to allow regeneration
Install French drains at all locations of concentrated surface water run‐off to control storm water
Enlist help of local residents and ratepayer associations to provide stewardship role
Use Master Plan as guide for stewardship
2. By‐law enforcement Consider increasing frequency of by‐law enforcement during peak periods in summer
3. Parking Install improved signage
No additional parking spaces and/or areas are recommended
Install “pay as you go parking” for non‐residents
Parking permit holders are exempt from paid parking
Better define and delineate approved parking areas
Improve resident access to parking permits
4. Facilities (i.e. washroom, parking spaces, garbage)
Maintain current facilities
Install more picnic tables in clearly defined areas
Install and anchor garbage and recycling bins at clearly identified locations
Improve parking ‘design’
Continue daily garbage pick‐up during summer
5. Access Prohibit motorized vehicles from the park
Upgrade fencing in specific locations to limit the points of access to the beach
Install woodchips along paths from designated entrances to ‘highlight’ entry points
Install garbage and recycling bins at each designated entrance to further encourage access at these locations
Clearly sign designated entries
Boardwalk needed to provide improved access from designated access points to the beach
6. Pets Improve signage in park to keep pets on leash and to use proper methods of disposal for droppings
Provide containers for disposal of pet droppings
7. New Structures Not recommended as this would impact on the park ecology
Maintenance costs would rise
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TABLE 5. ISSUES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Topic Implementation
8. Erosion and Sediment Control An ex‐filtration pipe is recommended to be installed under the municipal road, with connections to existing municipal storm sewers to channel surface drainage and encourage it to infiltrate into the ground for filtering prior to re‐emerging along the beach and entering Georgian Bay.
9. Beach Maintenance Clearly define area of beach to be used by sunbathers
Conduct beach maintenance activities in this area in accordance with provincial and federal legislation including the Public Beach Maintenance Operational Statement
The Master Plan for Woodland Beach Park is presented in Figure 3.
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 19
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7.0 STEWARDSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Community stewardship is possibly the single biggest opportunity available to the Township to ensure
protection of Woodland Beach into the future. Stewardship opportunities, including partnerships with
interested organizations, should be considered by the Township. Local groups could perform many of
the short‐ and long‐term priorities identified in this Plan, including:
garbage pick‐up
monitoring of ecological protection measures
reporting to Township officials if a problem occurs (i.e. policing)
organizing ‘clean the beach’ events and related fund‐raising activities to generate funds for the
Township to implement initiatives faster
generally spread the word encouraging local residents to support the sustainability of the Park
The stewardship role would not involve patrols or enforcement activities that could lead to confrontation with beach users. For health and safety reasons, volunteers would also require proper training. In addition, The Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation recently published a number of papers
addressing the preservation of coastal ecosystems, such as that at Woodland Beach Park. A copy of the
general stewardship principles is presented in Appendix D. These principles should be followed to
achieve a sustainable facility into the future. They are also affordable and realistic.
8.0 THE FUTURE
Table 6 provides a summary of the potential impacts, mitigation and net effects if control measures
proposed for residential properties are implemented.
TABLE 6. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE WOODLAND BEACH MASTER PLAN
Issue Recommended Solution Implementation
1. Ecology Clearly define public areas.
Install barriers (i.e. sand fencing) around sensitive areas.
Enlist help of local residents and ratepayer associations to assist with Park stewardship (not enforcement).
Install ex‐filtration pipe, as delineated in the Master Plan (Figure 3).
Immediate
Implement “pay as you go parking” for non‐residents.
Within 2 years
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 20
LGL Limited environmental research associates ● John D. Bell Associates Landscape Architects
TABLE 6. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE WOODLAND BEACH MASTER PLAN
Issue Recommended Solution Implementation
2. By‐law enforcement Consider increasing frequency of by‐law enforcement during peak periods in summer.
As budget permits
3. Parking Improve resident access to parking permits.
Install improved signage.
Clearly define public parking areas.
Immediate
Improve parking ‘design’ to reduce improper parking.
Maintain current parking capacity.
As budget permits
4. Facilities (i.e. washroom, garbage)
No new structures or facilities are recommended.
Install and anchor garbage and recycling bins at clearly identified locations.
Continue daily garbage pick‐up
during peak summer months.
Immediate
5. Beach Access Prohibit motorized vehicles from the park.
Upgrade fencing to limit the points of access to the beach.
Clearly define paths from designated entrances to ‘highlight’ entry points.
Install garbage and recycling bins at designated entrance.
Immediate
6. Pets Provide disposal facilities for pet droppings.
Immediate
7. Signage Install improved and advanced signage.
Install signage to identify sensitive ecological areas, where public is not allowed (i.e. nature stations).
Clearly define paths from designated entrances to ‘highlight’ entry points.
Install clear signage for pet owner disposal of droppings.
As budget permits
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 21
LGL Limited environmental research associates ● John D. Bell Associates Landscape Architects
TABLE 6. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE WOODLAND BEACH MASTER PLAN
Issue Recommended Solution Implementation
8. Erosion Control An ex‐filtration pipe should be installed under the municipal road, with connections to existing municipal storm sewers.
As budget permits
9. Beach Maintenance Clearly define area of beach to be used by sunbathers.
Conduct beach maintenance activities in this area in accordance with provincial and federal legislation including the Public Beach Maintenance Operational Statement.
Immediate
Woodland Beach Park Master Plan January 2009 Township of Tiny Page 22
LGL Limited environmental research associates ● John D. Bell Associates Landscape Architects
9.0 REFERENCES
Chapman and Putnam 1984. The Physiography of Southern Ontario. Ontario Geological Survey, Special Volume 2. Map 2715, Scale 1:600,000
Hoffman, D.W., B. C. Matthews and R. E. Wicklund. 1964. Soil Survey of Simcoe County Ontario. Report of the Ontario Soil Survey.
Lee, H.T., W.D. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig and S. McMurray. 1998. Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation and Its Application. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Southcentral Science Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch. SCSS Field Guide FG‐02. North Bay, Ontario. 225 pp.
Planning Partnership. 2001. The Township of Tiny Official Plan. Adopted September 11, 2000, approved April 24, 2001.
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. 2005. Provincial Policy Statement.
Natural Resources, Ministry of. Natural Heritage Information Centre website (http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/nhic/nhic.cfm). Ministry of Natural Resources, Peterborough.
Natural Heritage Information Centre. 1997. Southern Ontario Vegetation Communities List. Natural Heritage Information Centre, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Peterborough, Ontario. http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/nhic/communities/comm_list.cfm. Last revised January 1997.
Newmaster, S.G., A. Lehela, P.W.C. Uhlig, S. McMurray and M.J. Oldham. 1998. Ontario Plant List. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario Forest Research Institute, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Forest Research Information Paper No. 123, 550 pp. + appendices.
Oldham, M.J. 1999. Natural Heritage Resources of Ontario: Rare Vascular Plants. Natural Heritage Information Centre, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Peterborough, Ontario. 56 pp.
Riley, J.L., W.D. Bakowsky, P.W. Ball, D.M. Britton, P.M. Catling, C.A. Campbell, W.J. Crins, K.L. McIntosh, S.M. MacKay‐Kuja, M.J. Oldham, A.A. Reznicek, D.A. Sutherland, and S. Varga, 1989. Distribution and Status of the Vascular Plants of Central Region. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Parks and Recreational Areas Section, Central Region. Richmond Hill, Ontario. 110 pp.