Conservation Halton Board of Directors Meeting - October 22 2020
Conservation Halton Board of Directors Meeting - October 22 2020Zoom Webinar
httpsus02webzoomusj85243985405pwd=cFpXVjM4NFY4Yk14d2FSVnZHU2czQT09 Passcode338366
Start Thursday October 22 2020 - 300pm
End Thursday October 22 2020 - 600pm
1 Roll Call
2 Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest for Conservation Halton Board of Directors
3 Acceptance of Agenda
4 Delegations - Don Mclean The Hamilton 350 Committee
Kirkwall to Hamilton valve pipeline 2020pdf
5 Presentations
51 Strategic Forestry Management Plan - Hajnal Kovacs Forest Technician (Report CHBD O7 2006)
52 2021 Budget Summary - Hassaan Basit President amp CEO (Report CHBD 07 20 07)
6 Consent Items
61 Approval of Conservation Halton Board of Directors DRAFT Meeting Minutes dated September24 2020
Conservation Halton Board of Director DRAFT Meeting Minutes - September 24 2020pdf
62 Approval of Finance amp Audit Committee DRAFT Meeting Minutes dated October 7 2020
Finance amp Audit Committee DRAFT Meeting Minutes - October 7 2020
7 Briefing Memos
71 Summary of Funding Received for Stewardship
1320
Memo - Outreach Restoration
72 Progress update on Source Protection plan updates
Memo - Source Protectionpdf
73 Kelso amp Glen Eden Master Plan
Memo - GE Master Plan - October 2020
8 Action Items
81 CHBD 07 20 01 - SW Georgetown Subwatershed Study
CHBD 07 20 01 - SWS VisionGeorgetownpdf
82 CHBD 07 20 04 - Oakville Slope Stability Assessment
CHBD 07 20 04 - Oakville Slope Stability Assessmentpdf
83 CHBD 07 20 02 - Site Specific Principles for Redevelopment of the Post Office Property - 193Church Street Town of Oakville CH File No ADM 349
CHBD 07 20 02 Oakville Post Officepdf
84 CHBD 07 20 03 - Halton Region Official Plan Review CH Discussion Paper Comments CH FileMPR 734
CHBD 07 20 03 - Halton Region Official Plan Review CH Discussion Paper Comments - CHFile MPR 734
CHBD 07 20 03 - ROPR Attachpdf
85 CHBD 07 20 05 - Applications to expand Burlington Quarry Nelson Aggregate Co - CH File NoPQ 20
CHBD 07 20 05 - Nelson Quarry
86 CHBD 07 20 06 - Strategic Forest Management Plan Report
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CHBD 07 20 06 - Strategic Forest Management Report - October 2020
CHBD 07 20 06 - Full Plan 2020 - Proposed
87 CHBD 07 20 07 - 2021 Budget Summary
CHBD 07 20 07 - Board Report 2021 Budget Summary - October 22 2020pdf
Conservation Halton Budget Book - 2021pdf
88 CHBD 07 20 08 - Amendment to CH By-Law No 18 01 - Title Change for CAO
By-law amendment President amp CEO title 22 10 20pdf
CH_By-Law 2018 CAO title change - REVISED October 22 2020
9 CEO Update
10 CHF Update - Jim Sweetlove
11 IN CAMERA
111 Legal Matter - Memo - October 22 2020
112 Legal Matter - Memo - October 22 2020
12 Other Business
13 Adjournment
3320
Dundas Turtle Watch DundasTurtleWatchca dundasturtlewatch08gmailcom
Dundas Turtle Watch 49 Kirby Ave Dundas ON L9H 6H6 To Environment Hamilton Re Proposed Kirkwall to Hamilton Valve natural Gas pipeline August 2020 DTW is aware that we have missed deadline dates for submissions against the pipeline but a turtle pond on the Brock Road has just been brought to our notice DTW does not approve of turtle habitat being disturbed for a pipeline anywhere along the proposed Kirkwall to Hamilton Valve route especially the Beverley swamp and a known turtle pond on the Brock Road There is no good time to move large equipment through such sensitive lands as turtles are nesting in the spring turtles eggs are in nests all through the summer and hatch in the Fall they then live in the mud during all their winter hibernation It takes fourteen to twenty years for a female snapping turtle to reach adult maturity to lay her first batch of eggs If this cycle is broken or disturbed then those turtles are lost forever All the species of turtles in this area are on the Ontario species at risk list They will be destroyed whenever the pipeline is constructed It would then take years if it happened at all for the any turtle to rehabilitate on lands damaged to that extent by a pipeline corridor Rosemary Horsewood Chairperson Dundas Turtle Watch rhorsewoodyahooca 905-627-4498 or Dundas Turtle Watch dundasturtlewatch08gmailcom
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MEETING NO 06 20 Conservation Halton Board of Directors
MINUTES A meeting of the Conservation Halton Board of Directors was held on Thursday September 24 at 330 pm via Zoom Webinar Members Present Hamza Ansari
Mike Cluett Rick Di Lorenzo
Joanne Di Maio Cathy Duddeck Allan Elgar Dave Gittings Zeeshan Hamid Zobia Jawed
Moya Johnson Gordon Krantz Bryan Lewis
Marianne Meed Ward Rory Nisan Gerry Smallegange Jim Sweetlove Jean Williams Absent with regrets Rob Burton
Steve Gilmour
Guests Ken Jull Legal Counsel Gardiner Roberts Peter Pickfield Partner Garrod Pickfield LLP
Staff present Robin Ashton Manager Marketing Kim Barret Associate Director Science amp Partnerships Hassaan Basit CAOSecretary-Treasurer
Garner Beckett Director CH Foundation Adriana Birza Manager Office of the CAO Tamara Boric Project Lead PMO Niamh Buckley Administrative Assistant Office of the CAO
Chitra Gowda Senior Manager Watershed Planning amp Source Water Meghan Hunter Manager Risk amp Lands Craig Machan Associate Director Park Operations Kellie McCormack Associate Director Planning amp Regulations Marnie Piggot Director Finance
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Plezzie Ramirez Senior Manager Human Resources Jill Ramseyer Director Corporate Compliance Pavan Seth Procurement Specialist
Katie Skillen Associate Director Marketing and Communications Barb Veale Director Planning amp Watershed Management Mark Vytvytskyy Director Parks and Operations Executive Lead Digital Transformation
Chair Gerry Smallegange called the meeting to order at 330 pm Chair advised that the Agenda would be amended to reflect that CAO Hassaan Basit would present the CH Fall event 1 Roll Call 2 Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest for Conservation Halton Board of Directors There were NONE 3 Acceptance of Amended Agenda CHBD 06 01 Moved by Jean Williams Seconded by Moya Johnson THAT the Amended Agenda be accepted as distributed Carried 4 Presentations 41 Strategic Plan methodology (Action Item 62)
(Hassaan Basit CAO amp Tamara Boric PMO)
At the request of the CAO 4 members have volunteered to be part of the Conservation Halton Strategic Plan Task Force team Mike Cluett David Gittings Jim Sweetlove and Rory Nisan Staff will reach-out directly to the members with next steps for the project and engagement
42 CH Foundation ndash Fall Event
(Hassan Basit CAO)
The CAO provided an update to the board on the CHF ldquoMountsberg Sugarbush Experience Eventrdquo that will take place on Saturday October 3 with 3 experiences ldquoA Bluegrass Brunchrdquo ldquoA Whiskey Siprdquo and ldquoA Country Dinnerrdquo In response to concern from some Board members re timeliness of the event the CAO advised that CH staff have worked closely with the City of Hamilton to ensure that all measures are being taken to adhere to COVID 19 public health guidelines and restrictions Arrival times are staggered and the experiences are set up to respect social distancing
6320
CH will post and email a fact sheet to guests advising them of the staggered arrival times (which appears on the top of their invite) and the steps that have been taken to ensure their safety 5 Consent Items Approval of Conservation Halton Board of Directors Meeting Minutes dated
June 25 2020 2020
51 Purchasing Report for April ndash July 2020 (Report CHBD 06 20 01) 52 CN Status Update (Report CHBD 06 20 02) 53 Proposed Amendment 1 to A Place to Grow Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe (A Place to Grow) and Proposed Land Needs Assessment Methodology for A Place to Grow Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe ERO No 019-1680 and 019-1679CH File No PPO 053
(Report CHBD 06 20 03) 54 Updating Ontariorsquos Water Quantity Management Framework
ERO No 019-1340 CH File No PPO 059 (Report CHBD 06 20 04)
55 Permits amp Letters of Permission issued under Ontario Regulation 16206 from January 1 to August 31 2020 (Report CHBD 06 20 05)
56 Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan Funding (Report CHBD 06 20 06)
6 Action Items 61 Amendment to The Halton Region Conservation Authority General Membership By-law No 2018-01
(Report CHBD 06 20 07)
CHBD 06 02 Moved By David Gittings Seconded by Cathy Duddeck
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors direct staff to post the amended General Membership By-law No 2018-01 on the Authorityrsquos website wwwconservationhaltonca And
7320
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors direct staff to post the MECP Ministerrsquos Direction that enables conservation authorities to convene meetings of the board electronically in order to make the necessary amendments to their By-law on wwwconservationhaltonca Carried 62 Strategic Plan methodology (Report CHBD 06 20 08) CHBD 06 03 Moved by Moya Johnson Seconded by Allan Elgar THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve the proposed project methodology governance model work plan and task force membership to support the renewal of Conservation Haltonrsquos strategic plan 2021-24rsquo Call for Participation from Board Members Rory Nisan Dave Gittings Jim Sweetlove Mike Cluett volunteered to be part of the Strategic Plan Task Force Carried 63 Land Disposition ndash Kingrsquos Highway 401 at Kelso CA
(Report CHBD 06 20 09) CHBD 06 04 Moved by Gordon Krantz Seconded by Jim Sweetlove THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve the disposition of 00865 acres from PIN 249740013 shown as Part 2 of Plan 20R-21482 (known as Part Lot 5 Concession 6 Nassagaweya) part of Kelso Conservation Area owned by The Halton Region Conservation Authority to be transferred to the Ministry of Transportation in alignment with the approved Land Securement Strategy And THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve the acceptance and deposit of $203000 into the Land Securement Reserve based on the calculated market value and administration fees from the Ministry of Transportation in alignment with the approved Land Securement Strategy Carried 64 Budget Variance Report for the Period Ended July 31 2020 and 2020 Projected Year End Amounts (Report CHBD 06 20 10) CHBD 06 05 Moved by Allan Elgar Seconded by Dave Gittings
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THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve capital projects as follows
1 Reinstating the Milton Channel Repairs capital project included in the 2019 budget for $255927 and associated funding sources closed in the staff report dated June 25 2020 and
2 Conservation Areas capital projects of $235000 related to facility infrastructure and technology requirements as noted in the staff report dated September 24 2020 funded by a transfer from the Conservation Areas Capital Reserve
And THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors receive for information the staff report dated September 24 2020 on the Budget Variance for the period ended July 31 2020 and 2020 Projected Year End Amounts Carried The CAO provided an update on ParkPass that CH had worked with to enable the parks to reopen The CAO advised that the system they developed which had gone through many changes and updates had enabled CH to welcome guests back to the parks in a safe way while continuing to respect social distancing Visitation was up by 70 from previous years The CAO advised that the marketing team had carried out a survey for opening Glen Eden and had received over 3000 response in 3 days The CAO confirmed that Glen Eden will reopen using the same ParkPass reservation system Allan Elgar and Board members commended the CAO for all of the work and efforts that had been made to reopen the parks during the pandemic and keep staff safe and supported over the past eight months 65 Margaret Grace Harris Bequest (Report CHBD 06 20 11) CHBD 06 06 Moved by Dave Gittings Seconded by Allan Elgar THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve the designation of funds bequeathed by Margaret Grace Harris as recommended herein CHF Director Garner Beckett will work with family to identify memorial to honour the legacy of Margaret Grace Harris Carried 66 Re-appointment of Member to the Conservation Halton Foundation Board of Directors (Report CHBD 06 20 12) CHBD 06 07 Moved by Jean Williams
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Seconded by Moya Johnson
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve the re-appointment of Don Ford as member to the Conservation Halton Foundation Board of Directors for a two-year term
And
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors accepts the recommendation from the Conservation Halton Foundation Board of Directors report CHF 05 19 02 (approved at the CHF Board meeting dated September 23 2020) regarding the above-named appointment
Chair Gerry Smallegange acknowledged that Jim Sweetlove had been re-elected Chair of Conservation Halton Foundation 20202021
Carried
7 CAO Verbal Update
The CAO advised the Board members that CH has been awarded the ldquoBest Social Initiativerdquo by Sustainable Hamilton Burlington (SHB) CH is a relatively new and proud member of SHB with a mission to inspire other organizations with a goal of reducing environmental impact while providing for greater social good
The CAO provided an update on MPP Jeff Yurek Minister of the Environment Conservation and Parks recent visit to Crawford Lake
The CAO advised that CH is working with a consultant to turn CH into a ldquoModel of Innovationrdquo and will provide an update at a future Board of Directors meeting about CHrsquos vision for a Innovation Hub The Innovation Hub will create strategic partnerships collaborate with local start up andor established technology companies to develop pilots and proof of concept deployments with the intention of continuing to potential product development The potential partner will have to show evidence of having developed products in the areas of interest to CH ndash broadly smart water and smart parks
8 CHF Update (Jim Sweetlove)
CHF Chair Jim Sweetlove provided an update on Conservation Halton Foundation including a synopsis of a presentation at the September 23 CH Foundation meeting on ldquoFundraising Activities and Opportunities During a Pandemic by Karen Willson Senior Vice President at KCI Ketchum Canada Inc
9 IN CAMERA Items
CHBD 06 08 Moved by Jean Williams Seconded by Marianne Meed WARD
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THAT the Conservation Halton Board meeting break for 15 minutes and convene IN CAMERA
Carried 91 Legal Matter
(Report CHBD 06 20 13)
92 Legal Matter (Report CHBD 06 20 14)
93 Legal Matters Report CHBD 06 20 15)
94 Legal Matter (Verbal update with legal counsel Kenneth Jull Gardiner Roberts LLP)
95 Legal Matter (Report CHBD 06 20 16)
96 Legal Matter (Report CHBD 06 20 17)
97 Personnel Matter (Report CHBD 06 20 18)
CHBD 06 09 Moved by Gordon Krantz Seconded by Cathy Duddeck
THAT the Conservation Halton Board meeting reconvene in public forum
THAT the Conservation Halton Staff proceed as directed by CH Board members
Carried 10 Other Business
11 Adjournment
CHBD 06 10 Moved by Gordon Krantz
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors meeting adjourn at 610 pm
Carried
Signed Hassaan Basit President amp CEOSecretary-Treasurer
Date October 22 2020
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MEETING NO 02 20 Finance amp Audit Committee
MINUTES A meeting of the Finance amp Audit Committee was held on October 7 2020 via Zoom videoconference at 1005 am
Present Rob Burton
Mike Cluett Moya Johnson Jim Sweetlove Gerry Smallegange
Absent with regrets Joanne Di Maio Staff Present Hassaan Basit President amp CEOSecretary- Treasurer
Marnie Piggot Director of Finance Adriana Birza Manager Office of the President amp CEO Melissa Silber Manager Accounting Lawrence Wagner Senior Director Corporate Services Niamh Buckley Administrative Assistant Office of the President amp CEO
Chair Rob Burton called the meeting to order at 1001 pm 1 Acceptance of Agenda FA 02 01 Approved by Moya Johnson Seconded by Jim Sweetlove THAT the Finance and Audit Committee approve the agenda as distributed Carried 2 Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest for Committee Members There were NONE 3 Consent Items 4 Action Items 41 2021 Budget amp Business Plan (FA O3 20 01)
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FA 02 02 Moved by Moya Johnson Seconded by Mike Cluett THAT the Finance and Audit Committee recommend to the Conservation Halton Board of Directors that municipal funding of $10430879 in the 2021 budget be approved by a weighted vote by the Conservation Halton Board of Directors at the October 22 2020 meeting And THAT transfers to and from Reserves in the 2021 budget be approved as outlined in this report And THAT the 2021 Budget amp Business Plan be approved as presented Carried 5 Other Business 6 Adjournment FA 02 03 Moved by Mike Cluett THAT the Finance amp Audit Committee Meeting be adjourned at 1010 am Carried Signed Hassaan Basit President amp CEOSecretary-Treasurer
Date October 22 2020
13320
TO Conservation Halton Board of Directors
FROM Barbara J Veale Director Planning and Watershed Management
DATE October 22 2020
SUBJECT Landowner Outreach amp Restoration (Stewardship) Program Funding
MEMO
Conservation Halton has been successful in securing additional funds in support of the Landowner Outreach amp Restoration (Stewardship) Program over the next few years Pending forthcoming decisions on outstanding grant applications and negotiation on compensation projects the funds raised in 2020 may surpass any raised in past years
In total Conservation Halton staff applied for $102325867 in external funding and have confirmed $65895276 to date a further $21852891 in requests remains outstanding Most funding sources span multiple years which reduces administrative tasks and provides stability to overall program funding In many cases external funding leverages Conservation Haltonrsquos levy funding to make those investments go even farther The following table provides more detail
Funding Source Project Amount Requested
Amount Received
Length of Grant
Funding Stream
Metrolinx Compensation
BurlingtonOakville Planting Compensation
$19484476 $19484476 2020-2022
Compensation Project
Species at Risk Stewardship Fund
Aquatic Species at Risk in Conservation Halton Watersheds
$18310000 $17710000 2020-2023
Grant
Sustain our Great Lakes
Limestone Creek Restoration Project
$12050000 $12050000 2021-2022
Grant
Great Lakes Protection Initiative
Hamilton Harbour Watershed Stewardship Project
$9600000 $6600800 2020-2022
Grant
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Funding Source Project Amount Requested
Amount Received
Length of Grant
Funding Stream
Canada Ontario Agreement
Brighton Beach Bioswale Part 2
$4900000 $4900000 2020 Grant
Imperial Oil Joe Sams Park Stewardship Action Plan
$3500000 $3500000 2020-2021
Foundation Sponsorship
Meighen Foundation
Brookies in Bronte Forever
$1000000 $1000000 2020 Foundation Sponsorship
Terrapure General Stewardship
$500000 $500000 2020 Foundation Sponsorship
TD Friends of the Environment Foundation
Partner with OFAH on Atlantic Salmon Riparian Plantings
$450000 $150000 2020 Grant
Habitat Stewardship Program
Western Chorus Frog Project
$9928500 $000 NA Grant application unsuccessful
Woodbine Cares Horse Farm Stewardship Restoration
$750000 $000 2020 Foundation Sponsorship (funding approved then cancelled due to COVID-19)
MTO Compensation Part 2
Redside Dace Outreach and Restoration
$12594058 TBD multi-year
Compensation Project
Canada Ontario Agreement
Hamilton Harbour Rainwater Compensation Project
$6506333 TBD multi-year
Grant
Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk
Campbellville Side Road Weir Decommissioning Design
$2000000 2020-2021
Grant
TD Friends of the Environment Fund
Courtcliffe Park Riparian Planting
$752500 2021 Grant
TOTAL $102325867 $65895276
Notes
bull Compensation projects are typically driven by development proponents whoseprojects impact the habitat of species at risk which triggers a requirement underthe Endangered Species Act for them to compensate elsewhere These projectscover 100 of the cost of restoration projects that address both the strategic
15320
priorities of Conservation Halton and the regulatory needs of development proponents which in the past have included municipal governments provincial ministries private developers and other private businesses The Metrolinx project is unique in that it is the outcome of a voluntary program initiated by the organization itself
bull Conservation Halton successfully competed against applications from both Canadaand the United States for the Sustain Our Great Lakes grant Sustain Our GreatLakes is an American public-private partnership designed to sustain restore andprotect fish wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding buildingconservation capacity and focusing partners and resources toward key ecologicalissues This funding will support Conservation Haltonrsquos Brookies in Bronte Foreverprogram launched in 2014 to protect sustain and enhance Brook Trout habitatthrough education awareness and empowerment of private landowners toundertake meaningful actions
bull The Great Lakes Protection Initiative is administered by Environment and ClimateChange Canada This funding is provided through a long-standing partnershipwith Hamilton Conservation Authority (since 1994) to provide stewardship andenvironmental restoration services to the joint watersheds of the Hamilton HarbourArea of Concern (AOC)
bull The Canada-Ontario Agreement funding is administered by the provincial Ministryof Environment Conservation and Parks and relates to the Hamilton HarbourAOC and associated Remedial Action Plan Staff has been working with theBrighton Beach community and City of Burlington for several years to help mitigatethe lack of stormwater control in the community using bioswales which are a formof Low Impact Development The two bioswales we have constructed to date willtrap sediment and reduce the erosive force of rainfall as it travels through steepravines to the Harbour
16320
TO Conservation Halton Board of Directors
FROM Barbara Veale Director of Planning and Watershed Management
DATE October 22 2020
SUBJECT Source Water Protection Update 2021
MEMO
This memo provides a brief update on the Source Water Protection program and some key priorities over the coming months The Conservation Authorities Act and Source Water Protection Through amendments made to the Conservation Authorities Act in 2019 the responsibilities of a conservation authority (CA) as a source protection authority under the Clean Water Act 2006 will be a mandatory program The changes will enable municipal levy to be utilized for source protection authority responsibilities The program will be prescribed through regulations that have yet to be proclaimed In the interim the province continues to fully fund source protection authority responsibilities Staff will keep the board apprised of any proposed regulations It is anticipated that there will opportunities for public input prior to proclamation Conservation Halton Source Water Protection Program Priorities 2021 Conservation Halton (CH) is the lead source protection authority of the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Region as designated under the Clean Water Act working closely with the Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) A major responsibility and current priority of CH and HCA is to update the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Plan and the underlying science These updates ensure the continued protection of Lake Ontario and groundwater aquifer sources of municipal drinking water through changing landscape activities climate conditions new water sources etc CH staff is leading work through 2021 to support comprehensive updates to the source protection plan in partnership with HCA CH continues to engage municipalities the Source Protection Committee and other drinking water stakeholders through this process The key events and milestones in the program since its inception in 2006 are shown on Figure 1
17320
Figure 1 Key Events and Milestones
In August 2020 the province proposed changes to the technical rules through a posting on the Environmental Registry of Ontario Comments are due by November 9 2020 The technical rules form a crucial part of the process of updating the source protection plan CH staff are simultaneously analysing the proposed changes while engaging municipalities and the committee prior to submitting comments An information report summarizing staffrsquos comments will be provided to the CH Board at the November board meeting Road Salt Management Ontariorsquos Clean Water Act source protection plan policies include mandatory policies to manage road salt application and storage where they pose a significant level risk to municipal drinking water sources Policy implementation is well underway However road salt continues to impact not only drinking water sources but aquatic life while also causing infrastructure damage and other impacts Climate change is expected to exacerbate these impacts At the same time it is recognised that road salt is necessary for the safety of the public during winter conditions This emerging issue was highlighted in the Made In Ontario Environment Plan which includes several actions to manage road salt impacts The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) at itrsquos Board of Directors meeting in September 2020 invited Chitra Gowda Senior Manager Watershed Planning and Source Protection for Conservation Halton and Martin Keller Source Protection Program Manager for the Grand River Conservation Authority to present on this matter Staff spoke about the need for a review of Ontariorsquos liability framework training for third party contractors use of techniques that optimize road salt usage watershed monitoring and several other considerations In response AMO will seek cooperation from several Ontario ministries to make sure that road salt can be used in a manner that balances public safety source water protection and municipal liability To effectively manage the environmental social and economic impacts of road salt a broader watershed management approach is necessary Staff will continue to enhance awareness of the issue and solutions through 2021
Clean Water Act 2006
Assessment Reports 2011
Source Protection Plan 2015
CA Act changes 2019
Source Protection Plan Updates 2020-21
18320
TO Conservation Halton Board of Directors
FROM Meghan Hunter Manager of Risk amp Lands
DATE October 22 2020
SUBJECT Kelso amp Glen Eden Master Plan
MEMO
Conservation Halton staff have now completed the Kelso amp Glen Eden Master Plan renewal in collaboration with the internal Steering Committee and external agencies This Memo along with final report submission to the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) Ministry of Natural Resources amp Forestry (MNRF) and Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks (MECP) for approval marks the end of the project The final Master Plan report will be going to the NEC for approval in November for final endorsement with sign-off from President amp CEO Hassaan Basit and Board Chair Gerry Smallegange Long-term sustainable planning for Conservation Haltonrsquos programs services and development over the next 5-10 years for Kelso amp Glen Eden are identified within this Master Plan Phased Capital investments for both Kelso North and the Kelso Quarry total just over $74M The Master Plans outlines directions for sustainable management for the property that balance the cultural natural and recreational needs of the park The presentation done by staff at the June 21 2018 Conservation Haltonrsquos Board of Directors meeting outlined the process public engagement conceptual designs and investment proposed by the Master Plan The phased Capital investment was presented to the Board members on October 24 2019 as part of Investing in Canada Infrastructure- Grant Funding Request A presentation to the Conservation Halton Foundation Board on February 19 2020 detailed the major Capital projects for the park as identified in the Master Plan including the preliminary design of the proposed Recreation Centre
19320
REPORT TO
REPORT NO
FROM
DATE
SUBJECT
Conservation Halton Board of Directors
CHBD 07 20 01
Barbara J Veale Director Planning and Watershed Management
October 22 2020
Vision Georgetown Secondary Plan and Subwatershed Study Town of Halton Hills CH File No MPR 634
Recommendation
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors receives for information the staff report entitled ldquoVision Georgetown Secondary Plan and Subwatershed Study Town of Halton Hillsrdquo
And
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors endorses the Vision Georgetown Secondary Plan and Subwatershed Study specifically the management recommendations that relate to areas regulated by CH
And
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors directs staff to send staff report entitled ldquoVision Georgetown Secondary Plan and Subwatershed Study Town of Halton Hillsrdquo to the Town of Halton Hills and Region of Halton for information
Executive Summary
The Town of Halton Hills prepared a Secondary Plan (Official Plan Amendment 32) to establish land use designations and policies for residential and mixed use as well as Natural Heritage System (NHS) lands within its Vision Georgetown Secondary Plan Area The Secondary Plan was informed by a Scoped Subwatershed Study (SWS) that characterized environmental features and functions and established management recommendations for the NHS As a member of the SWS Technical Advisory Committee Conservation Haltonrsquos involvement was twofold 1) as a regulatory agency and 2) as a technical advisor as per the Memorandum of Understanding with Halton Region and local municipalities
The NHS includes features regulated under Ontario Regulation 16206 (eg Sixteen Mile Creek tributaries and associated flooding and erosion hazards wetlands and other significant features such as woodlands and wildlife habitat linkages and buffers) Some regulated watercourses and small wetlands are identified in the SWS management recommendations as features that may be relocated in future development scenarios Proposed relocationsenhancements would be subject to more detailed study through an Environmental Implementation ReportFunctional Servicing Study (EIRFSS) to demonstrate an overall benefit to the system and would require Conservation Halton permit approval
20320
The SWS is a foundational document that guides future development Planning and permit applications must adhere to the management requirements contained within it By endorsing the report and approving the SWS management recommendations specifically related to CHrsquos regulations CH staff can issue permits for works in regulated areas when they meet the requirements of the SWS This is in keeping with Board approved policies as per the Board-approved Policies and Guidelines for the Administration of Ontario Regulation 16206 and Land Use Planning (modified February 25 2016)
Report
Background
The Vision Georgetown Secondary Plan Area located in the Town of Halton Hills is bounded by 10 Side Road to the south 15 Side Road to the north Eighth Line to the east and Trafalgar Road to the West The study area is approximately 400 hectares (988 acres) in size and lies within the Sixteen Mile Creek and Silver Creek watersheds (Figure 1) The study area contains tributaries of Sixteen Mile Creek and Silver Creek including associated flooding and erosion hazards as well as headwater drainage features wetlands and woodlands Silver Creek is within the jurisdiction of Credit Valley Conservation
Figure 1 Vision Georgetown Secondary Plan Area
Secondary Plan and Subwatershed Study Process
21320
The Vision Georgetown Secondary Plan establishes land use designations and policies for residential mixed use and a Natural Heritage System (NHS) for the above-described study area The Secondary Plan was adopted by the Town of Halton Hills in June 2018 by way of Official Plan Amendment (OPA) 32 The Region of Halton made a decision on September 25 2020 to approve OPA 32 with modifications Local municipalities are required to prepare Area-Specific Plans (Secondary Plans) or policies for major growth areas including the development or redevelopment of communities The plans or policies are to be incorporated by amendment to the Local Official Plan and must demonstrate that the goals and objectives of the Regional Official Plan (ROP) have been met The ROP requires that Secondary Plans be supported by a subwatershed study The purpose of the SWS is to bull inventory characterize and assess natural hazard natural heritage and water resource features and
functions within the study area (ie constraints to development)
bull provide recommendations for the protection conservation and management of natural hazard natural heritage and water resource features within the study area
bull provide sufficient detail to support the designation of a Natural Heritage System (NHS) through refinement of the Regional Natural Heritage System
bull evaluate a land use concept as well as a supporting stormwater management strategy where the functions of natural features are maintained or enhanced while ensuring no aggravation of natural hazards and
bull provide recommendations for a management strategy implementation and monitoring plan to be implemented through the Secondary Plans and future sitearea specific studies
The SWS characterized and established management recommendations regulated features including watercourses floodplains valleylands and wetlands These regulated features comprise a significant portion of the study arearsquos NHS which was refined through the SWS process A stormwater management strategy was also established The SWS outlines requirements for future studies to be submitted in support of future Planning Act applications (eg EIRFSSs) These future studies will further evaluate and provide a greater level of detail on the future land use servicing and stormwater management strategy and may further refine the limits of the NHS These studies will also establish a more refined monitoring plan to evaluate potential effects of development on the NHS Basis of CH Review and Involvement CH staff participated as a member of the SWS Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and provided technical advice to Town staff and their consulting team as well as Regional staff throughout the preparation of the SWS CH staff also ensured that CHrsquos interests specifically regulatory requirements under Ontario Regulation 16206 and responsibilities delegated by the Province of Ontario with respect to Section 31 (Natural Hazards) of the Provincial Policy Statement (2014) were addressed CH provided technical advice on matters relating to stormwater management and ecology as outlined in the MOU with the Region of Halton and local municipalities
22320
Vision Georgetown NHS One of the overarching goals of the SWS was to develop an NHS that would protect restore and enhance natural features and areas on the landscape for the long-term The goal was to take a systems approach to identifying and protecting natural heritage and hazard features and areas such that there would be an overall net benefit to the system This approach also ensures that future development adjacent to the NHS or hazard lands or proposed NHS refinements to the NHS limits will not negatively impact critical natural heritage featuresareas or create new natural hazards or aggravate existing ones Through the SWS a series of management recommendations were produced that focused on ensuring that the natural features and areas would function as part of an overall robust system and that natural hazards would be contained Features were evaluated based on their sensitivity and connection with other natural features All significant natural features and natural hazards along with appropriate regulatory allowances andor buffers form part of the NHS In general more sensitive features are to be protected in-situ and less sensitive features are to be relocated and enhanced elsewhere in the study area adjacent to the NHS Primary components of the Vision Georgetown NHS include several tributaries of Sixteen Mile Creek wetlands Significant Wildlife Habitat and Significant Woodlands Some regulated watercourses and small wetlands are identified in the SWS management recommendations as features that may be relocated in future development scenarios These proposed relocationsenhancements would be subject to more detailed study at the EIRFSS level to demonstrate an overall net benefit to the system and would also require Conservation Halton permit approval
CH Policies Policy 3191 of CHrsquos Policies and Guidelines for the Administration of Ontario Regulation 16206 and Land Use Planning Policy Document (modified February 25 2016) states
Major flood plain alterations (including placement of fill to create or enlarge a building lot) and major watercourse alterations (including enclosures and diversions from one watershed to another) are generally not permitted Such alterations may be considered where justification is provided through a subwatershed study an Environmental Assessment or similar comprehensive study and are subject to conformity with municipal planning documents The applicable study or assessment must be current (generally within 5 years) and must be supported by Conservation Halton
Staff is satisfied that the Vision Georgetown SWS provides comprehensive justification for the recommended relocationre-creation of the regulated watercourse and floodplain as well as the re-creation of small wetland features and that by doing so it will result in an overall benefit to the system Further it has been demonstrated that future conditions will not create new or aggravate existing hazards CH staff supports the SWS as a foundational document that guides land use planning and related Planning Act applications and specifies the requirements that supporting technical studies will need to adhere to CH staff is seeking Board approval of the SWS so that in the future CH staff can issue permits for works in regulated areas when they meet CHrsquos policy and permitting requirements the requirements of the SWS and further technical studies
23320
Conclusion CH staff has worked with the Town of Halton Hills Region of Halton and their respective consultants in the development of a SWS as part of the Vision Georgetown Secondary Plan process Through the SWS an NHS has been identified that will protect restore and enhance existing natural features and areas for the long term All significant natural features and natural hazards along with appropriate buffers and regulatory allowances form part of the NHS In general more sensitive features are to be protected in-situ and less sensitive features are to be relocated and enhanced elsewhere in the study area adjacent to the NHS Staff is satisfied that the Vision Georgetown SWS provides comprehensive justification for the recommended relocationre-creation of regulated watercourses and small wetland features and recommends that the Board of Directors endorse the Vision Georgetown SWS Impact on Strategic Goals This report supports the Metamorphosis strategic theme of Taking care of our growing communities and Protecting our natural cultural and scenic assets The theme is supported by the objective to remain dedicated to ecosystem-based watershed planning that contributes to the development of sustainable rural urban and suburban communities Financial Impact CHrsquos involvement in the development of Secondary Planrsquos is part of the plan input services that CH provides Halton Region municipalities in accordance with the joint MOU Signed amp respectfully submitted Approved for circulation
Barbara J Veale PhD MCIP RPP Hassaan Basit Director Planning and Watershed Management President amp CEOSecretary-Treasurer
FOR QUESTIONS ON CONTENT Matt Howatt Team Lead Regional Infrastructure Team
9053361158 x 2311 mhowatthrcaonca
Kellie McCormack Associate Director Planning and Regulations 9053361158 x 2228 kmccormackhrcaonca
24320
REPORT TO
REPORT NO
FROM
DATE
SUBJECT
Conservation Halton Board of Directors
CHBD 07 20 04
Barbara J Veale Director Planning amp Watershed Management
October 22 2020
Sixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Assessment Erosion Hazard Limits in Downtown Oakville CH File No MPR 709
Recommendation
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors receive for information the staff report entitled ldquoSixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Assessment Erosion Hazard Limits in Downtown Oakvillerdquo
And
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve the updated Regulation Mapping produced as part of the lsquoSixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Assessment Erosion Hazard Limits in Downtown Oakvillersquo for posting on the Conservation Halton website and for distribution to member municipalities in accordance with the timeframes established in CHrsquos Approximate Regulation Mapping Maintenance Protocol
Executive Summary
The Town of Oakville and Conservation Halton completed a Slope Stability Assessment for an area along the southerly bank of Sixteen Mile Creek in the vicinity of Randall Street within Oakvillersquos Downtown Area The purpose of the Assessment was to refine the stable top of bank and associated regulatory allowance (ie regulation limits) for the study area Targeted public consultation was undertaken to ensure that affected landowners and the general public were made aware of the study and had opportunities to provide input No formal written comments were received within the consultation period CH staff recommends that the CH Board of Directors approve the updated stable top-of-bank line and regulation limit for the study area based on the results of the lsquoSixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Assessment Erosion Hazard Limits in Downtown Oakvillersquo
Report
Background ndash Ontario Regulation 16206 amp Approximate Regulation Limit Mapping
Conservation Halton (CH) is responsible for administering Ontario Regulation 16206 (Development Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation) Ontario Regulation 16206 restricts development in hazard areas
25320
Pursuant to Ontario Regulation 16206 CH regulates
bull All development in or adjacent to river or stream valleys wetlands and surrounding lands where development could interfere with the hydrologic function of the wetland Lake Ontario shorelines and hazardous lands such as karst and any prescribed allowances
bull Alterations to a river creek stream or watercourse and bull Interference with wetlands Permission is required from CH for undertaking any works within regulated areas CHrsquos Board-approved Policies and Guidelines for the Administration of Ontario Regulation 16206 and Land Use Planning Policy Document (modified February 25 2016) outlines the policies and technical requirements which must be met before permission may be granted Areas regulated by CH are generally shown on Approximate Regulation Mapping (ARL) which is available to the public through CHrsquos website and to municipalities as digital map layers Not all regulated areas are mapped but natural hazards and associated allowances whether mapped or not are regulated CHrsquos ARL mapping is an important screening tool used by conservation authority staff municipal staff consultants real estate agents and others to determine if a site may contain natural hazards and be regulated by CH To ensure that the most current and comprehensive regulation limit mapping is provided in the ARL maps Conservation Halton Board of Directors approved a new Mapping Maintenance Protocol on November 21 2019 for updating regulation limit mapping for sites where technical studies supporting a planning or permit application refine the hazard limits to the satisfaction of CH (Res No CHBD 11 08) Major changes made at the watershed subwatershed watercourse or shoreline reach or multimdashproperty scale not associated with a planning or permit application require CH Board approval prior to incorporating them into the public-facing ARL mapping layer For these types of changes CH follows Conservation Ontariorsquos (CO) Guidelines for Updating Section 28 Mapping Development Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulations This document updated and approved by Conservation Ontario Council in 2018 indicates that hazard mapping should be done in accordance with provincial standards and follow the public consultation and notification processes contained within it Sixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Assessment Erosion Hazard Limits in Downtown Oakville In Fall 2016 the Town of Oakville and CH commenced a Slope Stability Assessment (SSA) for an area along the southerly bank of Sixteen Mile Creek in the vicinity of Randall Street within Oakvillersquos Downtown Area The study area included the Sixteen Mile Creek Valley and lands along Navy Street Randall Street and Dunn Street (Figure 1) The area between Lakeshore Road East and Navy Street was studied earlier as part of the Downtown Cultural Hub Study When CHrsquos ARL mapping was originally developed for this area it was generated using computer modelling air photo interpretation and contour mapping based on guidance from the Province and CO A regulated allowance of 15 metres as prescribed by Provincial regulation was also included Erosion hazard lines were based on a computer-generated stable top-of-bank as defined by the 31 (horizontalvertical) slope plus an 8 to 15 metre toe erosion setback depending on the cohesiveness of the soil Conservative computer-generated stable top-of-bank or meander belt lines are used until
26320
the lines can be refined and more accurate sitearea specific mapping is produced through detailed technical studies (eg slope stability assessment fluvial geomorphological assessment)
Figure 1 Study Area for Sixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Stability Assessment (Existing and Proposed Approximate Regulation Limit)
As part of the Town of Oakvillersquos Downtown revitalization plans an opportunity was identified to produce more accurate stable top-of-bank line and regulation limits along Sixteen Mile Creek in Downtown Oakville based on a detailed technical study Some of the key components of the study included bull Review of background information (previous mapping and reports) bull Site inspections and detailed topographic survey bull Geotechnical investigation to assess subsurface soilbedrock and groundwater conditions bull Slope stability analysis to determine stable slope line and bull Fluvial geomorphological investigation to estimate creek bank erosion over a 100-year plan
horizon
Based on the results of the SSA a refined stable top-of-bank line and regulation limit was identified for the study area and has resulted in a reduced regulated area in the study area Figure 1 shows CHrsquos current ARL and the proposed updated regulation limit for the study area
27320
The regulated area is defined as the greatest extent of the combined natural hazards plus a prescribed allowance CHrsquos current ARL in this area is based 120 metres from the limit of a Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) which is located within the valley of Sixteen Mile Creek In cases where a wetland is located within a steep valley CH generally clips its regulated limit to reflect the stable-top-of-bank and regulatory allowance as impacts to or interference with wetlands are unlikely As such the greatest extent of CHrsquos regulated area would be defined by the erosion hazard which is identified by the updated stable top-of-bank line identified through the SSA and a prescribed allowance of 15 metres Public Consultation In accordance with Conservation Ontariorsquos Guidelines for Updating Section 28 Mapping Development Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulations (modified February 25 2016) as well as Town of Oakville public consultation requirements the Town of Oakville and CH have worked together to undertake scoped public consultation for landowners within the study area Scoped public consultation was with those landowners whose properties impacted by the proposed adjustments to the regulatory line Given the limited number of properties affected extensive public consultation was not necessary Consultation involved an ad in the local newspaper targeted mail-out in early August to affected landowners and 30 day posting on Town and CHrsquos website Town and CH staffrsquos contact information was provided to landowners allowing them to raise questions and receive answers Interested parties were invited to provide their insights and comments directly to Town and CH staff All comments received in writing were to be recorded and responded to Final comments were requested to be submitted by September 30 2020 CH received one phone inquiry related to the study but no formal written comments were submitted Town of Oakville staff did not receive any inquiries or comments Given that the results of this study reduced the limit of CHrsquos regulated area which is largely viewed as a positive substantive comments or concerns were not anticipated No concerns were expressed over the study findings Conclusion and Recommendation Given the growth and development that has occurred in CHrsquos watershed it is imperative that CHrsquos mapping is updated on a regular basis to reflect best available information More accurate mapping allows CH to provide cost-effective and more efficient client service and avoid confusion resulting from obvious errors contained in outdated mapping (eg the mapping of features which no longer exist or that have changed in extent over time) CH staff recommends that the CH Board of Directors approve the updated 2020 regulation limit for Sixteen Mile Creek along Randall Street based on the results of the study entitled ldquoSixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Assessment Erosion Hazard Limits in Downtown Oakvillerdquo The extent of CHrsquos regulated area in the study area would be based on the updated stable top-of-bank line identified through the SSA and a 15-metre regulatory allowance
28320
Following Board approval CH staff will update its internal mapping layer External mapping will be updated in accordance with the timelines established via CHrsquos Approximate Regulation Mapping Maintenance Protocol Impact on Strategic Goals This report supports the Metamorphosis strategic theme of Taking care of our growing communities The theme is supported by the objective to remain dedicated to ecosystem-based watershed planning that contributes to the development of sustainable rural urban and suburban communities Financial Impact There is no financial impact to this report Signed amp respectfully submitted Approved for circulation
Barbara J Veale PhD MCIP RPP Hassaan Basit Director Planning amp Watershed Management President amp CEOSecretary-
Treasurer FOR QUESTIONS ON CONTENT Kellie McCormack Associate Director Planning amp Regulations 905-336-1158 x 2228 kmccormackhrcaonca
29320
REPORT TO
REPORT NO
FROM
DATE
SUBJECT
Conservation Halton Board of Directors
CHBD 07 20 02
Barbara J Veale Director Planning amp Watershed Management
October 22 2020
Site Specific Principles for Redevelopment of the Post Office Property 193 Church Street Town of Oakville CH File No ADM 349
Recommendation
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors receives for information the staff report entitled ldquoSite Specific Principles for Redevelopment of the Post Office Property 193 Church Street Town of Oakvillerdquo
And
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve site-specific principles for the Post Office Property 193 Church Street Town of Oakville that if met allow CH staff to issue a permit for proposed development
AND
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors direct staff to provide Town of Oakville staff with a copy of this report and associated resolution
Executive Summary
The Town of Oakville and Conservation Halton completed a Slope Stability Assessment (SSA) for an area along the southerly bank of Sixteen Mile Creek in the vicinity of Randall Street within Oakvillersquos Downtown Cultural Hub Within this area the Town of Oakville owns a few properties including the Post Office property Through the SSA the Post Office property was confirmed to be outside of the stable top-of-bank but partially within CHrsquos regulatory allowance The Town is contemplating redevelopment of the site and is seeking direction from CH about what opportunities may be possible Strict adherence to CHrsquos policies would preclude full redevelopment of the Post Office site
In May 2014 CHrsquos Board of Directors approved site-specific policies and principles for redevelopment for portions of the Downtown Cultural Hub in the area bounded by Navy Street to the west Lakeshore Road to the south and Sixteen Mile Creek to the west and north However these principles and site-specific policies do not apply to the SSA study area including the Townrsquos Post Office property Site-specific principles for the Post Office property consistent with the intent of CHrsquos current policies will allow for redevelopment of the site outside of hazard lands
30320
Given that no development is proposed within hazard lands publicly-owned and maintained infrastructure (ie Randall Street) is located adjacent to the valley and redevelopment of the site is unlikely to jeopardize the health or safety of persons or result in damage or destruction of property if site-specific principles are met staff recommends that the CH Board support the staff recommendation in Report CHBD 07 20 04
Report
BackgroundProposal
As outlined in Report CHBD 07 20 02 the Town of Oakville and Conservation Halton (CH) completed a Slope Stability Assessment (SSA) for an area along the southerly bank of Sixteen Mile Creek in the vicinity of Randall Street within Oakvillersquos Downtown Area The study entitled ldquoSixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Assessment Erosion Hazard Limits in Downtown Oakvillerdquo covered the Sixteen Mile Creek Valley and lands along Navy Randall and Dunn Streets
The purpose of the SSA was to refine the stable top of bank and associated regulatory allowance (ie regulation limits) for the study area shown on Figure 1 Targeted public consultation was undertaken to ensure that affected landowners and the general public were made aware of the studies and had opportunities to provide input Based on the results of the SSA CH staff recommended that the CH Board of Directors approve an updated stable top-of-bank line and regulation limit for the area
Figure 1 Study Area for Sixteen Mile Creek Valley Slope Stability Assessment
31320
Within the SSA study area the Town of Oakville owns a few properties including the Post Office building which is located at 193 Church Street The northerly limit of the subject property is adjacent to Randall Street beyond which is the Sixteen Mile Creek valley (Figure 2) Randall Street is a Town-owned public right-of-way and the Town also owns and maintains a Bin-Wall (revetment works) along a portion of the Sixteen Mile Creek valley wall
Figure 2 Post Office Property ndash 193 Church Street Oakville
CHrsquos current ARL mapping shows the entire Post Office property as being regulated by CH However based on the results of the SSA and pending Board approval of the revised regulation limit for this area the subject property is confirmed to be outside of the stable top-of-bank but partially within the erosion access allowance and regulatory allowance The depth of the regulatory allowance on the property varies but at its greatest it extends approximately 9 metres into the site (refer to Figure 2) The Post Office building is completely outside of CHrsquos regulated area
The subject property located in Downtown Oakville is recognized as a key area of focus for mixed use development and is illustrated as a Node in the Townrsquos Urban Structure It is also within the Townrsquos Downtown Cultural Hub (DCH) study area The DCH study was undertaken to explore opportunities for revitalizing the Townrsquos downtown as the Town is interested in combining cultural and performing arts facilities with mixed uses to support cultural venues maintain the economic viability of the downtown area and strengthen social and cultural opportunities for residents
The Sixteen Mile Creek Valley is a prominent feature within the DCH and a considerable portion of the DCH study area is regulated by CH pursuant to Ontario Regulation 16206 Given this the Town of Oakville initiated discussions with Conservation Halton in July 2013 to explore what redevelopment
32320
opportunities would be possible within CH regulated areas Strict adherence to CHrsquos current regulatory policies would preclude substantial changes in size and use
To keep with the intent of CHrsquos regulatory policies and considering the existing development footprint uses and level of natural hazard risk site-specific policies and principles were recommended to allow the Town to move forward with several alternative redevelopment scenarios outside of the natural hazard areas CHrsquos Board of Directors approved site-specific policies and principles for redevelopment in May 2014 (Staff Report CHBD 05 14 01) The Board Resolution is applicable for lands bounded by Navy Street to the east Lakeshore Road to the south and Sixteen Mile Creek to the west and north
The principles and site-specific policies established at that time are not applicable for the SSA study area which includes the Townrsquos Post Office site The Town is contemplating redevelopment of the Post Office property and is seeking direction from CH about what opportunities may be possible now that the SSA is completed
Although concepts for the Post Office site have not been finalized the building footprint is anticipated to be expanded and underground parking provided northerly towards the Randall Street frontage Any future development on the site would maintain at least a 2-metre setback from the northerly property line or a 6-metre setback from the stable top-of-bank (ie no development is proposed within the erosion hazard)
Depending on the final details of the proposed development a potential zoning by-law amendment may be necessary and site plan approval will be required for any future development Development will also need to meet CH regulatory requirements
Policy Review
Policy 335 of CHrsquos Policies and Guidelines for the Administration of Ontario Regulation 16206 and Land Use Planning Policy Document (modified February 25 2016) outlines CHrsquos policies for development within 15 metres of stable top-of-bank of a major valley system
3352 Where buildings and structures already exist within 15 metres of the stable top of bank of major valley systems and a 75 metre publicly owned access is not provided adjacent to the stable top of bank the following policies will apply
33521 Any replacement (same size and use) or additions to the existing buildings and structures may be permitted subject to the following a) the replacement or addition does not encroach any closer to the stable top of bank than the
existing development at its closest pointb) even if existing development is closer than 6 metres to the stable top of bank no new
development is permitted within 6 metres of the stable top of bank in order to provide for anerosion access allowance as per the Provincial Policy Statement
c) a geotechnical assessment by a qualified engineer (at the expense of the applicant) may berequired to determine the location of the stable top of bank and to determine if the proposeddevelopment would have a negative impact on slope stability See Policy 342 and Section 5for study requirements and
33320
d) In cases where the building or structure can be reasonably relocated outside of the setbackthe applicant will be encouraged to do so
hellip 3353 Except as provided for in policies 3351 and 3352 no new development or redevelopment is permitted within 15 metres of the stable top of bank of major valley features
The intent of Policy 3352 is to limit development within hazard lands and CH regulated lands if reasonable alternative locations for redevelopment are possible onsite The intent is also to provide for an erosion access allowance ideally on publicly owned lands to ensure there is a large enough safety zone for people and vehicles to enter and exit an area during an emergency (eg slope failure) and to provide sufficient area to access and maintain protection works along valley The 6-metre erosion access allowance is based on guidance from the Province
As noted above based on the results of the SSA CHrsquos regulatory allowance extends approximately 9 metres into the site from Randall Street but the existing Post Office building is located outside of CHrsquos regulated area Redevelopment of the site would be considered new development within CHrsquos regulatory area and any development would encroach closer to the stable top-of-bank than existing which is not permitted based on CHrsquos current policies Options to redevelop the subject property away from the valley towards Church Street are not feasible given the lot configuration
The Town is not proposing any development within hazard lands and public infrastructure is located between the Post Office property and Sixteen Mile Creek valley (eg Randall Streetpublic right-of-way waterwastewater lines) As such a publicly owned access is available if access to the slope is necessary A Bin-Wall is also located on the valley wall which is owned and maintained by the Town
Like other areas of the DCH strict adherence to CHrsquos policies would preclude full redevelopment of the Post Office site CH staff can only issue permits that meet CHrsquos Board-approved regulatory policies and deviation from CHrsquos regulatory policies requires Board of Director approval
Recommendation
CH staff recommends that the CH Board support site-specific principles for redevelopment on the Post Office site for the following key reasons
bull No development is proposed within hazard lands
bull A publicly owned access (ie municipally owned and maintained infrastructure) is locatedadjacent to the valley and
bull Redevelopment of the site is unlikely to affect the control of erosion or to create a condition orcircumstance that in the event of a natural hazard might jeopardize the health or safety ofpersons or result in damage or destruction of property
Site-specific principles for the Post Office property consistent with the intent of CHrsquos current policies will if met enable CH staff to issue a permit allowing for redevelopment of the site outside of the hazard lands
Principles for redevelopment of the Post Office property (193 Church Street Oakville) include
34320
1 Development does not encroach any closer to the stable top of bank than 6 metres at its closetpoint in order to provide for an erosion access allowance and
2 A geotechnical assessment prepared by a qualified engineer is submitted as necessary toconfirma) the location of the stable top of bankb) the proposed works will not negatively impact slope stability andc) the Bin-Wall along the valley is functioning as designed
Conclusion
For the reasons stated above staff recommends that the CH Board endorse site-specific principles for the Post Office property that if met would enable CH staff to issue a permit to allow for redevelopment of the site
Impact on Strategic Goals This report supports the Metamorphosis strategic theme of Taking care of our growing communities The theme is supported by the objective to remain dedicated to ecosystem-based watershed planning that contributes to the development of sustainable rural urban and suburban communities
Financial Impact There is no financial impact to this report
Signed amp respectfully submitted Approved for circulation
Barbara J Veale Hassaan Basit Director Planning amp Watershed Management President amp CEOSecretary-
Treasurer
FOR QUESTIONS ON CONTENT Kellie McCormack Associate Director Planning amp Regulations 905-336-1158 x 2228 kmccormackhrcaonca
35320
REPORT TO
REPORT NO
FROM
DATE
SUBJECT
Conservation Halton Board of Directors
CHBD 07 20 03
Barbara J Veale Director Planning amp Watershed Management
October 22 2020
Halton Region Official Plan Review Conservation Halton Discussion Paper Comments CH File MPR 734
Recommendation
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors endorse the staff report entitled ldquoHalton Region Official Plan Review Conservation Halton Discussion Paper Commentsrdquo
And
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors direct staff to send the report entitled ldquoHalton Region Official Plan Review Conservation Halton Discussion Paper Commentsrdquo to the Region of Halton the local Halton Area municipalities and conservation authorities
Executive Summary
A review of the Region of Haltonrsquos Official Plan (ROP) commenced in 2014 Phase 2 of the review is currently underway and has involved background research technical analysis and the development of five discussion papers related to Rural and Agricultural System Natural Heritage Regional Urban Structure Climate Change and North Aldershot Planning Area Conservation Halton staff has engaged with Regional staff throughout the ROP review process as a member of the Halton Area Planning Partnership (HAPP)
CH staff has reviewed all five discussion papers and has responded to the discussion questions in each paper Staffrsquos review and comments focused on the areas that fall within CHrsquos areas of expertise and on matters of interest to CH including topics related to natural hazards natural heritage water resources source protection and climate change Staff recommends that the CH Board of Directors endorse Report No CHBD 07 20 06
Report
Background
Halton Regionrsquos Official Plan (ROP) review commenced in 2014 Phase 1 of the ROP review was completed in 2016 and included the establishment of key directions and a work plan
36320
Phase 2 of the ROP review is currently underway Phase 2 involved on background research technical analysis and the development of discussion papers related to key themes of the ROP review Five discussion papers have been prepared on the following topics Rural and Agricultural System Natural Heritage Regional Urban Structure Climate Change and North Aldershot Planning Area The discussion papers explore issues related to each of these topic areas and options for how the ROP could address issues and achieve conformity with the Provincial Plans and Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) These reports are available on Halton Regionrsquos website Regional Council endorsed the discussion papers for public release at the Regional Council meeting on July 15 2020 The Region is currently undertaking a broad public consultation on the discussion papers until the end of October 2020 Conservation Halton (CH) staff has engaged with Regional staff throughout the Regional OP review process as a member of the Halton Area Planning Partnership (HAPP) Staff will continue to participate in HAPP reviews and technical meetings throughout the OP review and will keep the Board of Directors apprised of progress at critical milestones Key comments CH staff has reviewed the discussion papers and has responded to the discussion questions raised in each paper (Attachment A) Staffrsquos review and comments were focused on the areas that fall within CHrsquos areas of expertise and on matters of specific interest to CH including topics related to natural hazards natural heritage water resources source protection and climate change Key comments for the Region to consider as part of the ROP review are 1 ROP natural hazard policies should be strengthened The current ROP policies are limited and focused on flooding Through the ROP review there is an opportunity to strengthen and develop broader policies to address all natural hazards as identified in Section 31 of the PPS At a minimum CH staff recommends ROP policies include clear language that identifies natural hazards as a constraint whether mapped or not and directs the reader to the appropriate Conservation Authorityrsquos regulatory mapping and local Official Planszoning by-laws as a source of information ROP policies should also guide the user to consult with and conform to conservation authority (CA) regulatory policies as they relate to development in and adjacent to hazard lands (excluding wildfire hazards) CA regulatory policies direct how and where development can proceed as it relates to hazard lands Opportunities exist for the ROP to support CA policies and promote CA consultation CAs have the delegated responsibility to represent the Province on the natural hazard policies of the PPS (311-317 inclusive) These delegated responsibilities require CAs to review and provide comments on municipal policy documents (Official Plans and comprehensive zoning by-laws) and applications submitted pursuant to the Planning Act as part of the Provincial One Window Plan Review Service It is recommended that CH staff be actively engaged in the development of natural hazard policies of the ROP
37320
2 CHrsquos Floodplain Mapping Program can support planning decisions In 2018 CH embarked on a renewed Floodplain Mapping Program New technologies and tools offer opportunities to provide more accurate depiction of flood hazards This information is used to support CHrsquos regulatory program and planning decisions as well as infrastructure planning design and maintenance flood forecasting and warning emergency planning and response and prioritization of flood mitigation efforts It also provides an opportunity for CH the Region and local municipalities to work collaboratively to identify priority areas to be mapped such as new growth areas (eg MTSA boundary delineation settlement area expansions) or areas of concern CH will engage with municipal planning staff in this regard 3 CH has data and expertise that can support the identification of a Water Resources
System and the development of source protection related policies and mapping Given CHrsquos roles as a watershed management agency regulatory authority and Source Protection Authority (SPA) CH has data and expertise that would benefit the Region in the identification of a Water Resources System (WRS) as required in the Provincial Plans and as it relates to source water protection CH staff would be pleased to provide support to the Region in the development of WRS and source protection mapping or policies Under the Clean Water Act CH was designated the lead SPA for the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Region In 2019 CA roles and responsibilities in source water protection were further reinforced when the Conservation Authorities Act was amended to prescribe source protection as a mandatory program and service for CAs to deliver In 2021 CH will be updating the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Plan as well as the underlying science The Plan update will support continued protection of Lake Ontario and groundwater aquifer sources of municipal drinking water and consider changing landscape uses and activities climate change and new water sources among other things CH staff will continue to engage municipalities throughout the Plan update process to ensure that any changes are addressed in the ROP 4 ROP policies and a corporate strategy will help Halton respond to climate change
CH supports the Regionrsquos intention to develop climate change policies in the ROP that can be implemented through land use planning and sees opportunities to embed climate change mitigation and adaptation direction throughout the ROP including within the natural heritage natural hazard watersource water sections of the ROP Maintaining and enhancing policies related to watershed planning and natural assetsgreen infrastructure would also strengthen the Regionrsquos approach to addressing the impacts of climate change The Region should consider developing a corporate Climate Change Strategy to address climate change corporate mitigation and adaptation actions that fall outside of the land use planning arena 5 CAs are important partners for the development of a Regional Natural Heritage Strategy The CAs that have jurisdiction in Halton should be recognized as key partners in helping the Region develop a Regional Natural Heritage Strategy particularly given that CAs deliver numerous programs and services that support the Regionrsquos vision and objectives (eg environmental education environmental monitoring stewardship land securement protection of greenspaces) Furthermore CAs have decades monitoring data and expertise that can help support such initiatives
38320
Next Steps Consultation on the discussion papers will conclude at the end of October 2020 Phase 3 of the Regional Official Plan review will focus on the development of policy directions including a draft amendment to the ROP There will be additional opportunities for public engagement throughout the Regional Official Plan Amendment process in Phase 3 which Conservation Halton staff will participate in and report to the Board of Directors at critical milestones Impact on Strategic Goals This report supports the Metamorphosis strategic theme of Taking care of our growing communities The theme is supported by the objective to remain dedicated to ecosystem-based watershed planning that contributes to the development of sustainable rural urban and suburban communities Financial Impact There is no financial impact to this report Signed amp respectfully submitted Approved for circulation
Barbara Veale PhD MCIP RPP Hassaan Basit Director Planning amp Watershed Management President amp CEOSecretary- Treasurer FOR QUESTIONS ON CONTENT Kellie McCormack Associate Director Planning amp
Regulations (905-336-1158 ext 2228 kmccormackhrcaonca)
Leah Smith Manager Environmental Planning (905-336-1158 x2235 lsmithhrcaonca)
39320
1
APPENDIX A Regional Official Plan Review Discussion Paper Conservation Halton Comments
CHrsquos specific comments on the five discussion papers in response to the questions posed by the Region within those documents are below
Natural Heritage System Discussion Paper
Discussion Question Response
1 As required by the Growth Plan the new Natural Heritage System for the Growth Plan mapping and policies must be incorporated into the Regional Official Plan Based on options outlined in Section 33 what is the best approach in incorporating the NHSGP into the ROP
NOTE on options Option 1 ndash Provide Separate Frameworks for Each Natural Heritage System Option 2 ndash Harmonize the Provincial Natural Heritage Systems Option 3 ndash Create an updated Regional Natural Heritage System that incorporates the Provincial Natural Heritage Systems
Conservation Halton (CH) recommends Option 2 or 3 Any opportunity to harmonize Natural Heritage System (NHS) policy frameworks would be helpful to the end user where possible Harmonized policies would be applicable to all NHS areas regardless of what provincial plan policies may apply However CH acknowledges that for both Options 2 and 3 different sets of policies would be also required for each area in addition to the harmonized policies where provincial plans have different minimum standards (eg Vegetation Protection Zones)
2 RNHS policies were last updated through ROPA 38 Are the current goals and objectives for the RNHS policies still relevantappropriate How can the ROP be revised further to address these goals and objectives
CH recommends the following newamended objectives related to the NHS be included in the ROP bull A general goalobjective(s) that speaks to the various approaches to NHS
management (eg protection restoration enhancement) that is to be employed based on context For example objectives for NHS management may differ depending on whether it is an urban greenfield or rural context
bull New objective(s) (and related policies) on the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark system (see Question 7)
bull New objectives (and related policies) to introduce the concept of ecosystem servicesnatural assets infrastructure
bull Regarding the existing objective ldquoTo preserve the aesthetic character of natural featuresrdquo CH recommends that this objective be further qualified to underscore the ecological and hydrologic function is a first principle over aesthetic objectives eg To preserve the aesthetic character of natural features hellipin a manner that supports the ecological and hydrologic function of the features
bull New goal related to the precautionary principle (see Question 3)
3 Based on the discussion in Section 42 to ease the implementation of buffers and vegetation protection
Precautionary Principle
CH supports the inclusion of the term ldquoprecautionary principlerdquo in the ROP
40320
2
Discussion Question Response
zones should the Region include more detailed policies describing minimum standards
NOTE on options Precautionary Principle Option 1 Include Policy Direction Option 2 Maintain Current Approach
Buffers and Vegetation Protection Zones Option 1 Include Policies in the ROP Option 2 Do Nothing
While the current ROP policies support an approach to the protection of natural heritage that is grounded in the precautionary principle (ie faced with uncertainty fault on the side of being conservative in the protection of natural heritage components) in practice there have been implementation challenges with the application of the precautionary principle in Subwatershed Studies and site specific Environmental Impact Studies
Identifying the precautionary principle in the vision andor goals of the ROP in combination with implementation guidance through various ROP guidelines would assist with the implementation of the principle
Buffers and Vegetation Protection Zones (VPZ)
CH recommends Option 1 to include buffer and VPZ policies in the ROP subject to the following considerations bull Identify minimum VPZ as per provincial policies but avoid significant detail or a
prescribed VPZ in the Official Plan as a one-size-fits-all VPZ would not be appropriate across all sites or areas across the Region (ie urban propertiesareas may require different VPZ than rural propertiesareas)
bull Instead of a prescribed VPZ guidance for establishing a VPZ should be provided through publicly consulted documents such as Subwatershed Study andor EIA guidelines These types of guidance documents could provide additional guidance about how to best evaluate and establish buffer widths This would allow for flexibility and to address site specific information acquired through the application process (ie the type of development that is proposed the sensitivity of the features site specific ecological data etc)
bull The ROP should ensure there is clarity on terminology and distinguish between VPZ (Provincial Plans) buffers (Regional OP) and regulatory allowances and other areas adjacent to wetlands (Conservation Authorities ActRegulations) These terms should not be used interchangeably as they are all defined differently and may provide different functions
4 Given the policy direction provided by the PPS and Provincial plans how should policy and mapping address the relationship between natural heritage protection and agriculture outside of the Urban Area or the Natural Heritage System Options are provided in Section 53
NOTE on options Option 1 Prime Agricultural Area with NHS Outside Key Features overlay and NHS Key Features overlay Option 2 Prime Agricultural Area and Key Features are designated with a Natural Heritage System overlay Key
Option 2 is recommended
In rural areas CH supports the use of a land use designation for the key features of the NHS used in conjunction with an overlay to conform with the latest provincial policies and to solve some practical challenges of implementing the NHS A NHS designation applied to key features paired with an overlay that triggers the need for detailed study in other areas of the system is an effective tool to demonstrate support for agriculture in rural areas and counter any perceptions that the ROP is not supportive of agriculture andor that environmental regulations have expanded too far while still ensuring the natural environment is protected
41320
3
Discussion Question Response
Features that overlap with the Prime Agricultural Area are cut out of the Prime Agricultural Area and incorporated into the Key Features Designation Option 3 Prime Agricultural Area and Key Features are designated with Natural Heritage System overlay Key Features that overlap with the Prime Agricultural Area are designated separately as ldquoKey Features in Prime Agricultural Areardquo Option 4 Sustainable Halton ndash Existing Policy and Mapping Approach
In urban areas it is recommended that other NHS lands (ie linkages buffers enhancements) be included as part of the land use designation once the limits of these areas are confirmed through a detailed site-specific study such as an EIA or equivalent
5 The Greenbelt Plan 2017 and Growth Plan 2019 require municipalities to identify Water Resource Systems (WRS) in Official Plans Based on the two (2) options provided in Section 63 how should the WRS be incorporated into the ROP
NOTE on options Option 1 Combine the NHS and WRS Option 2 Separate the NHS and WRS
Recommend Option 1 as it reflects the integrated nature of Natural Heritage and Water Resource Systems As noted in the discussion paper while common set of policies for Key Natural Heritage Features and Key Hydrologic Features can be developed the ROP should also include separate policies pertaining to the two systems as needed and must include separate policies for Key Hydrologic Areas
Given CHrsquos role as a watershed management agency regulatory authority and source protection authority CH has data and expertise that would benefit the Region in the identification of a Water Resources System (WRS) CH staff would be pleased to provide support to the Region in the development of WRS mapping or policies
6 Preserving natural heritage remains a key component of Haltonrsquos planning vision Should Halton Region develop a Natural Heritage Strategy and what should be included in such a strategy
CH supports the development of a Natural Heritage Strategy and the broad objectives identified in the discussion paper bull restore habitat and increase forest cover through restoration and stewardship bull promote natural heritage education and community awareness bull secure greenlands and their linkages bull explore opportunities to mitigate climate change and bull promote and protect the natural environment
The Conservation Authorities (CAs) that have jurisdiction in Halton should be recognized as key partners in developing a Natural Heritage Strategy particularly given that CAs deliver numerous programs and services that support the Regionrsquos vision and objectives highlighted above (eg environmental education watershed-wide and site-specific environmental monitoring stewardship land securement protection of greenspaces)
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of providing public access to green and open spaces for recreation health and wellness Any Natural Heritage Strategy should also support the objective of promoting access to nature for recreational use providing opportunities for residents to connect with nature for physical and mental health benefits and to develop an appreciation for and commitment to the protection of
42320
4
Discussion Question Response
the NHS The Strategy should also evaluate opportunities to better physically connect all green and open spaces throughout Halton
7 Should the ROP incorporate objectives and policies to supportrecognize the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System
We support general objectives and policies to support and recognize the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System
Objectives related to supporting partnerships and strategies for promoting and supporting the EcoPark system could also be developed and the implementing policies could focus on lands securement While the ROP could include high level supportive objectives and policies the Natural Heritage Strategy referenced in Question 6 could act as a supportive tool to provide more detailed guidance
8 The Regional Official Plan is required to conform to applicable Source Protection Plans and must be updated through this ROPR process What is the best approach to address Drinking Water Source Protection policies and mapping
As noted in the discussion paper the ROP must conform to significant threat policies and Great Lakes designated policies in accordance with the Clean Water Act
Source Protection Plan (SPP) policies applicable to vulnerable areas with the same policy implementation outcome could be grouped into ldquocommonrdquo ROP policies to avoid redundancy For example the ROP could include one overarching policy to address the S 59 - restricted land use policy of the SPP We recognize that the three SPPs applicable to Halton Region may not have similar policy approaches and applicability mainly due to unique watershed characteristics
The OP should include maps of drinking water vulnerable areas where significant threat policies apply We recognize that this mapping may change during the life of the ROP for various reasons such as Provincial requirements or new or expanded drinking water systems As such if possible the ROP could refer to the necessary maps contained in the SPPs to ensure the policies will apply to the any new or updated maps approved by the Province Alternatively regular consolidations of the ROP would be required to update any source protection maps embedded in the ROP
Under the Clean Water Act CH is designated the lead source protection authority for the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Region In 2019 CA roles and responsibilities in source water protection were further reinforced when the Conservation Authorities (CA) Act was amended to prescribe source protection as a mandatory program and service for CAs to deliver While the implementing regulations under the CA Act are not yet enacted a major responsibility and current priority for 2021 will be for CH to update the Halton-Hamilton SPP as well as the underlying science The Plan update will support continued protection of Lake Ontario and groundwater aquifer sources of municipal drinking water and consider changing landscape uses and activities climate change and new water sources among other things CH staff will continue to engage municipalities the source protection committee and other drinking water stakeholders throughout the Plan update process As mentioned in Comment 5 NHS Discussion Paper CH has data and expertise that would benefit the Region in the development of source water protection
43320
5
Discussion Question Response
related ROP policies and mapping CH staff would be pleased to provide support to the Region as requested
9 The ROP is required to conform to the updated Natural Hazard policies in the PPS What is the best approach to incorporate Natural Hazard policies and mapping
NOTE on options Option 1 Create a separate Schedule in the ROP that maps the Natural Hazards Option 2 On the RNHS schedule (Map 1G) show the Natural Hazards as an overlay Option 3 Do not map Natural Hazard in the ROP but rather include additional policies to direct the Local Municipalities to map Natural Hazards in their Official Plans
At a minimum CH supports Option 3 ROP policies should include clear language that identifies natural hazards as a constraint whether mapped or not and directs the reader to CA Approximate Regulation Limit (ARL) (ie regulatory mapping) and local Official Planszoning by-laws as a source of information
ROP policies should also guide the user to consult with and conform to CA regulatory policies as they relate to development in and adjacent to hazard lands (excluding wildfire hazards) CA regulatory policies direct how and where development can proceed as it relates to hazard lands As such opportunities exist for the ROP to support CA policies and promote CA consultation
Notwithstanding the above a hybrid approach to incorporating both natural hazard policies and mapping into the ROP would also be supported as it would ensure there is a visual representation of some natural hazards in the ROP
If Natural Hazards mapping is included in the ROP CH suggests Option 1 to identify the hazard lands on a single schedule rather than an overlay The NHS does not contain all hazard lands nor was it intended to In some instances flood plains were included as a general proxy for ecological features and areas While this is appropriate there is often a misconception that all environmental constraints to development are encompassed within the NHS designation and as such hazards are not often well understood when decisions are being made regarding the purchase of land or when studies are being undertaken in support of a planning process A ROP natural hazards map would ensure that applicants and staff have an easy-to-access screening map to identify natural hazards early in the process
If Option 1 is carried forward in addition to Option 3 we offer the following recommendations bull In order to encompass all natural hazards (ie flooding erosion and shoreline)
Conservation Authority regulations and regulatory mapping should be used as a source of information
bull As hazard mapping is updated frequently through Conservation Authority updates to the ARL the ROP schedule should be updated at regular intervals through consolidations or consider including the hazard mapping in an appendix that can be updated more frequentlyeasily
bull It may be challenging to depict natural hazards at a Regional scale Including a map panel for each local municipality may be more useful to the end user
bull Indicate that mapping is approximate and subject to change direct the reader to the policy section and promote further consultation with the CA
44320
6
Discussion Question Response
Refer also to Comment 4 under the Regional Urban Structure Review Discussion Paper
10 How can Halton Region best support the protection and enhancement of significant woodlands through land use policy
CH staff concurs with the suggestion in the Discussion Paper that consideration should be given to refining the existing definition of woodland in order to address issues identified in the Greenbelt Plan technical paper (eg ldquoWoodlands experiencing changes such as harvesting blowdown or other tree mortality are still considered woodlands Such changes are considered temporary whereby the forest still retains its long-term ecological valuerdquo)
As noted in the paper woodlands experiencing these changes still provide habitat for wildlife as well as potential areas for enhancement to the NHS and should continue to be assessed The increasing frequency of extreme weather (eg ice storms) impacts from invasive species and urban environments will continue to impact woodlands which will require increased efforts to protect restore and enhance significant woodlands particularly those experiencing mortality This is especially critical in urban areas
The protection restoration and enhancement of woodlands will also contribute to the goals identified in the Climate Change Discussion Paper
11 Are there any additional considerations or trends that Halton Region should review in terms of the Natural Heritage component of the ROP
CH staff recommends the Region address the following policy updates through the ROP Review bull We recommend updating ROP policies to allow the Region to update NHS mapping
outside of an MCR As site specific studies are completed and NHS limits are revised through approved Planning Act applications the updated mapping could be incorporated into the ROP through periodic consolidations This would ensure the mapping remains up to date and based on the best information available
bull Policy 118(2) a) should be broken into two points to separate Species at Risk and fish habitat from significant wetlands and significant coastal wetlands This is to ensure that provincial Endangered Species Act approval for works within species at risk habitat are not misconstrued as representing provincial approval for works within Provincially Significant Wetlands where the two features are coincident
Climate Change Discussion Paper
Discussion Question Response
1 Have you felt the impacts of climate change on your community What impacts are of most concern to you in the next 20 years
The climate change impacts that are of most concern to CH relate to natural hazards natural heritage and the source protection of drinking water
Climate change increases risk related to natural hazards For example the region is experiencing more frequent and intense storms This results in increased risk of damage
45320
7
Discussion Question Response
and destruction to property or infrastructure from flooding and erosion Critical public infrastructure may not be designed to withstand the frequency duration andor intensity of these storm events
Climate changes also impacts the NHS For example climate change exacerbates thermal impacts to streams which can render streams uninhabitable for sensitive species or species at risk Climate change also results in increased impacts to woodlands and other natural areas through increased introduction of invasive species and impacts to species diversity
Sources of drinking water are also impacted by climate change For example in Halton region some municipal groundwater wells are showing elevated (and increasing) levels of chloride likely from road salt This could worsen with climate change as longer or more intense winter conditions may lead to increased use of road salt
2 How do you think the Regional Official Plan can help Halton respond to climate change What mitigation and adaptation actions would you like to see embedded in the ROP
Areas where the ROP can support to climate change mitigation and adaptation goals include Natural Hazards bull Stronger natural hazard policies to ensure development is directed away from hazard
lands consistent with the PPS 2020 and CA regulationsregulatory policies bull ROP policies should ensure that climate change is consideredaddressed through
master planning processes particularly for public infrastructure Policies should address resiliency and adaptation as it relates to infrastructure and stormwater management (eg infrastructure should be plannedsized to accommodate more frequent intense and longer storm events) Low Impact Development (LID) stormwater management approaches should be promoted
Natural Heritage amp Water Resource Systems bull Forests wetlands woodlands and soils act as natural carbon sinks As such they
soak up some of the greenhouse gas emissions providing an important benefit to addressing climate change The ROP should include policy objectives related to the protection of the NHS water resource system and urban forest for carbon sequestration benefits
bull Embed the concept of natural infrastructure (natural assets) in the ROP for the services and benefits the natural system provides for mitigating climate change (eg flood attenuation carbon sequestration thermal impacts) and increasing resiliency to climate change impacts (see the Municipal Natural Assets Initiative at MNAIca)
bull Policies that support land dedication to ensure natural areas are secured and protected in perpetuity
46320
8
Discussion Question Response
bull Policies to support recreational and connected greenspaces such as conservation areas and other publicly owned and accessible greenspaces across the region
bull Selecting a growth concept that protects the NHS over the long term and that supports the development of more compact mixed-use and transit-oriented communities and minimizes the need for any urban boundary expansions
bull ROP policy direction should continue to support Watershed and Subwatershed planning and require climate-change related issues to be consideredaddressed at the watershed scale through future and ongoing studies Watershed Planning supports better understandings of and maintenance of functioning and resilient ecosystems at the watershed level
bull The ROP should include specific targets and monitoring policies to track ifhow targets are being met Given CHrsquos role as a watershed management agency CH has monitoring data and expertise that would benefit the Region in setting ecological and water quality and quantity targets CH staff would be pleased to provide support to the Region in the development of climate change targets and monitoring policies
Source Protection bull The ROP should include source protection related policies to address potential
climate change impacts to drinking water bull While planning for growth ROP policies should address current water stressed areas
(ie water quantity and quality related stresses) as these stresses could worsen with climate change Cumulative impacts of multiple water takings should also be considered
3 Haltonrsquos population is forecast to grow to one million people and accommodate 470000 jobs by 2041 What do you think about policies to plan for climate change through more compact urban form and complete communities In your opinion are we growing in the right direction
Yes CH supports policies to plan for climate change through more compact urban form and complete communities as summarized in question 2
4 What do you think the Region should do to help you reduce your GHG emissions For example if you typically commute by car to work or school every day what would make you consider taking transit biking walking
The reduction of GHG emissions can be partially addressed through ROP land use policies that lead to the creation of compact complete and transit-oriented communities
In order to further enable the reduction of GHG emissions the Region should undertake a broader corporate Climate Change Strategy to address the impacts and opportunities in other program areas that are not addressed directly by land use policies in the ROP
For example a Climate Change Strategy could recommend prioritization of transportation electrification both in transit and private automobiles Enabling residents to change the fuel source for their cars may result in a more rapid reduction in emissions over the larger and longer-term shift from driving to transit Policies supporting a public network of
47320
9
Discussion Question Response
charging stations (including at Regional facilities) could have a dramatic effect on emissions particularly in low density neighbourhoods that cannot support transit
ROP can also provide direction for the Active Transportation Plan including direction to support the protection of system of linked publicly owned greenspaces across Halton Region
5 Do you think the Region should encourage and support local renewable energy sources If so what should be considered
Yes the Region should encourage and support local renewable energy sources
Similar to question 4 above a Climate Change Strategy andor other non-land use planning strategies may better address support for renewable energy sources than the Regional OP
For example such a strategy could include recommendations related to bull Electrified transit vehicles could provide a source of storage for electricity produced
from renewable energy sources Policies should seek to integrate local renewable energy sources with bus storagemaintenance facilities
bull The use of solar lights on municipal properties and road rights-of-way bull Programs to promote the use of renewable energy sources with the industrial
commercial sector
6 Can you provide examples of opportunities to address climate change as it relates to agriculture that you would like to see in Halton
Increasing local food production in the GTHA will result in fewer transportation related GHG emissions The ROP should include a strong agricultural system framework to support local food production and related industries
The Regionrsquos Agriculture Strategy should continue to support agricultural landowner stewardship programs in conjunction with other partners such as CAs Agricultural stewardship programs contribute towards healthier agriculture systems and soils which act as a carbon sink and help mitigate the impacts of climate change
7 According to the PPS 2020 planning authorities are required to consider the potential impacts of climate change in increasing risks associated with natural hazards (eg fires and floods) How can ROP policies be enhanced to address climate change impacts on natural hazards
As highlighted under question 9 of the Natural Heritage System Discussion Paper current ROP policies are limited and focused on flooding There is an opportunity to provide stronger policies on natural hazards including mapping
At a minimum this should include strong policy direction in the ROP directing local municipalities to map natural hazards in their Official Plans However a visual representation of natural hazards in the Regional Plan may assist with the identification of potential constraints prior to purchase of land andor the submission of a Planning Act application
As noted under question 2 of the Climate Change Discussion Paper maintaining and enhancing policies related to watershed planning and infrastructure would also strengthen the Regionrsquos approach to addressing natural hazards and the impacts of climate change
48320
10
Discussion Question Response
8 Are there additional measures the ROP should include to improve air quality
Many of the approaches recommended in the discussion paper and the feedback in the questions above related to the reduction of GHG emissions also support improving air quality
For example the protection of the NHS and other greenspaces building a compact and transit-oriented built form promoting renewable energy the electrification of transit and the development of electric vehicle charging stations Therefore we recommend the ROP andor a climate change strategy include these directions
Rural and Agriculture System Discussion Paper
Discussion Question Response
1 Mapping options A Should the updated ROP designate prime agricultural areas with a separate and unique land use designation B Are there any additional pros and cons that could be identified for any of the options C Do you have a preferred mapping option If so why
CHrsquos land restoration and stewardship program and goals for protecting valuable resources (including a sustainable land base) aligns with the goals of a sustainable agriculture system
As summarized in above under question 4 of the NHS Discussion Paper option 2 is recommended
In rural areas CH supports the use of a land use designation for the key features of the NHS used in conjunction with an overlay to conform with the latest provincial policies and to solve some practical challenges of implementing the NHS A NHS designation applied to key features paired with an overlay that triggers the need for detailed study in other areas of the system is an effective tool to demonstrate support for agriculture in rural areas and counter any perceptions that the ROP is not supportive of agriculture andor that environmental regulations have expanded too far while still ensuring the natural environment is protected
2 Agriculture-related uses A Should the ROP permit the agriculture-related uses as outlined in the Guideline on Permitted Uses in Ontariorsquos Prime Agricultural Areas in its entirety B What additional conditions or restrictions should be required for any agriculture-related uses C Should some uses only be permitted in the Rural Area as opposed to Prime Agricultural Lands
The ROP should continue to include policies to manage the interface between agriculture-related uses and key features of the NHS
3 On-farm diversified uses The ROP should continue to include policies to manage the interface between on-farm uses and key features of the NHS
49320
11
Discussion Question Response
A Should the ROP permit on-farm diversified uses as outlined in the Guidelines on Permitted Uses in Ontariorsquos Prime Agricultural Areas in its entirety B What additional conditions or restrictions should be required for any on-farm diversified uses C The Guidelines on Permitted Uses in Ontariorsquos Prime Agricultural Areas limit on-farm diversified uses to no more than 2 percent of the farm property on which the uses are located to a maximum of 1 ha As well the gross floor area of buildings used for on-farm diversified uses is limited (eg 20 percent of the 2 percent) Are these the appropriate size limitations for Halton farms
4 To what extent should the updated ROP permit cemeteries in
A) Urban areas B) Rural areas C) Prime agricultural areas Explain the criteria eg factors that are important to you that should be considered when evaluating cemetery applications for each
CH supports the inclusion of policies in the ROP to direct the siting of this land use Regardless of the area that cemeteries are permitted in we recommend including policies to establish clear criteria for the siting of cemeteries outside of natural hazard and natural heritage areas
5 Do the AIA policy requirements in the ROP sufficiently protect agricultural operations in the Prime Agricultural Area and Rural Area If not what additional requirements do you think are needed
No comment from CH
6 Should the requirements for an AIA be included in any other new or existing ROP policies
No comment from CH
7 Should special needs housing be permitted outside of urban areas and under what conditions
No comment from CH
8 Are there any additional considerations or trends that Halton Region should review in terms of the Rural and Agricultural System component of the ROP
No comment from CH
50320
12
North Aldershot Planning Area Discussion Paper
Discussion Question Response
1 Given the environmental and other provincial policy constraints what are appropriate future land uses that should be permitted in the North Aldershot Planning Area
Given natural heritage natural hazard and other provincial policy constraints land uses associated with NHS and rural land use designations are appropriate in North Aldershot as outlined in the discussion paper
2 Are there any additional considerations or trends that Halton Region should review in terms of the North Aldershot Planning Area review of the ROP
Grindstone Creek and its tributaries traverse much the North Aldershot area As such the erosion and flooding hazards associated with Grindstone Creek and its tributaries as well as any CH regulatory allowance may influence development limits in this area Both natural heritage featuresareas and natural hazard lands need to be considered when identifying what is developable vs non-developable Any new policies for the North Aldershot area should address natural hazards
As noted under question 7 the ROP should include policies to support the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System in order to better protect restore and connect the natural lands in this biodiversity hotspot
Regional Urban Structure Discussion Paper
Discussion Question Response
1 How can the Regional Official Plan further support the development of Urban Growth Centres
The ROP should acknowledge the need to identify potential constraints to development within Urban Growth Centre if hazard lands are identified (or if the natureextent of hazard is greater than previously thought) through future Area Specific Plans and other comprehensive planning processes
2 Should the Region consider the use of Inclusionary Zoning in Protected Major Transit Station Areas to facilitate the provision of affordable housing
No comment from CH
3 Should the Region consider the use of the Protected Major Transit Station Areas tool under the Planning Act to protect the Major Transit Station Areas policies in the Regional Official Plan and local official plans from appeal If so should all Major Transit Station Areas be considered or only those Major Transit Station Areas on Priority Transit Corridors
No comment from CH
4 From the draft boundaries identified in Appendix B and the Major Transit Station Area boundary delineation
Hazard lands should be considered as part of the identification of MTSA boundaries Ideally hazard lands should be confirmeddelineated prior to the Region confirming
51320
13
Discussion Question Response
methodology outlined do you have any comments on the proposed boundaries Is there anything else that should be considered when delineating the Major Transit Station Areas
MTSA boundaries as part of the ROPR However given that this may not be possible the ROP will need to acknowledge potential constraints to development if hazard lands are identified (or if natureextent of hazard is greater than previously thought) through future Area Specific Planning processes
For example the extent of the flood hazard in the Burlington GO MTSA and Downtown Burlington were confirmed to be substantially larger than initially thought through the Cityrsquos Mobility Hubs Flood Hazard Study Special policies will need to be developed for Burlingtonrsquos OP that address the nature and extent of the hazard in those areas Ideally the boundaries of the MTSAs would exclude hazard lands to the extent possible Where hazard lands are within an MTSA boundary the ROP andor local Official Plans should provide clear policy direction to direct development away from these areas in keeping with the PPS
In 2018 CH embarked on a renewed Floodplain Mapping Program New technologies and tools offer opportunities to provide more accurate depiction of the flood hazard This information is important to support CHrsquos regulatory and planning programs infrastructure management decisions flood forecasting and warning emergency planning and response prioritization of flood mitigation efforts and infrastructure design It also provides an opportunity for CH the Region and local municipalities to work collaboratively to identify priority areas to be mapped CH will be engaging with municipal planning staff to initiate discussions in this regard
5 How important are Major Transit Station Areas as a component of Haltonrsquos Regional Urban Structure What is your vision for these important transportation nodes
No comment from CH
6 Building on the 2041 Preliminary Recommended Network from the Determining Major Transit Requirement should corridors be identified as Strategic Growth Areas in the Regional Official Plan Is so should a specific minimum density target be assigned to them
No comment from CH
7 Should the Regional Official Plan identify additional multi-purpose and minor arterial roads in the Regional Urban Structure not for the purposes of directing growth but to support a higher order Regional transit network
No comment from CH
8 Are there any other nodes in Halton that should be identified within the Regional Official Plan from a growth or mobility perspective (ie on Map 1) If so what should the function of these nodes be and should a density
No comment from CH
52320
14
Discussion Question Response
target or unit yield be assigned in the Regional Official Plan
9 Are there any other factors that should be considered when assessing Employment Area conversion requests in Halton Region
No comment from CH
10 Are there any areas within Halton Region that should be considered as a candidate for addition to an Employment Area in the Regional Official Plan
No comment from CH
11 How can the Regional Official Plan support employment growth and economic activity in Halton Region
No comment from CH
12 What type of direction should the Regional Official Plan provide regarding planning for uses that are ancillary to or supportive of the primary employment uses in employment areas Is there a need to provide different policy direction or approaches in different Employment Areas based on the existing or planned employment context
No comment from CH
13 How can the Regional Official Plan support planning for employment on lands outside Employment Areas and in particular within Strategic Growth Areas and on lands that have been converted What policies tools or approaches can assist with ensuring employment growth and economic activity continues to occur and be planned for within these areas
No comment from CH
14 Are there other factors besides those required by the Growth Plan Regional Official Plan or Integrated Growth Management Strategy Evaluation Framework that Halton Region should consider when evaluating the appropriate location for potential settlement area expansions
Similar to comment 4 above hazard lands should be considered as part of any proposed settlement area expansion and ideally confirmed as part of ROPR Further we recommend that the Region consider the potential implications andor policy options if hazard lands are identified (or if natureextent of hazard is greater than previously thought) through future Area Specific Planning processes
Since greenfield areas should have no new development in hazard lands these lands become a ldquotake outrdquo when identifiedconfirmed during the Area Specific Planning process which impacts developable area proposed built form andor density targets Challenges arise if the anticipated amount of developable land is substantial reduced through the ASP process
See Comment 4 above regarding CHrsquos Floodplain Mapping Program
53320
15
Discussion Question Response
15 What factors are important for the Region to consider in setting a minimum Designated Greenfield Area (DGA) density target for Halton Region as whole and for each of the Local Municipalities Should the Region use a higher minimum Designated Greenfield Area density target than the 50 residents and jobs per hectare target in the Growth Plan
No comment from CH
16 Are there any additional considerations or trends that Halton Region should review in terms of the Regional Urban Structure component of the Regional Official Plan Review
No comment from CH
54320
REPORT TO
REPORT NO
FROM
DATE
SUBJECT
Conservation Halton Board of Directors
CHBD 07 20 05
Barbara J Veale Director Planning amp Watershed Management
October 22 2020
Applications to expand Burlington Quarry Nelson Aggregate Co CH File No PQ 20
Recommendation
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors receives for information the staff report entitled ldquoApplications to expand Burlington Quarry Nelson Aggregate Cordquo
And
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors directs staff to send the staff report entitled ldquoApplications to expand Burlington Quarry Nelson Aggregate Cordquo to the Niagara Escarpment Commission Region of Halton City of Burlington and Ministry of Natural Resources for information
Executive Summary
On May 14 2020 Nelson Aggregate Co submitted applications under the Planning Act Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act and Aggregate Resources Act (ARA) for a Category 2 Class A Licence for a pit and quarry below the water table The proposed quarry expansion is on lands adjacent to the existing quarry at 2435 No 2 Sideroad in the City of Burlington
A Joint Agency Review Team (JART) was established with staff from the Region of Halton City of Burlington Niagara Escarpment Commission and Conservation Halton (CH) The JART will prepare coordinated technical comments on the reports submitted to inform decision making by the parties reviewing the various applications CH is not a decision-making body with respect to the Nelson quarry applications CH will review the applications based on our delegated responsibility to represent the Province on the natural hazard policies of the PPS (311-317) as a technical advisor providing advice on natural heritage and groundwater matters through the JART technical review process CH will also review the applications to ensure that the proposed works meet the intent of CHrsquos regulatory policies and requirements
55320
Report
Background On May 14 2020 Nelson Aggregate Co filed several applications related to a proposed expansion of the existing Burlington quarry including 1 An application for a Licence pursuant to the Aggregate Resources Act (ARA) to the Ministry of
Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) The application is for a Category 2 Class A Licence for a pit and quarry below the water table
2 An application to amend the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEPA) 3 A Niagara Escarpment Development Permit Application 4 An application to amend the Regional Official Plan (ROPA) and 5 An application to amend the Burlington Official Plan (LOPA)
The applications propose to expand the existing quarry by extending the license and extraction areas to the south and west of the existing quarry lands located at 2435 No 2 Sideroad The proposed new extraction areas are on lands located at Part Lot 17 amp 18 and Part Lot 1 amp 2 Concession Two NDS (former Township of Nelson) in the City of Burlington (Figure 1)
Figure 1 Proposed Location of Nelson Quarry Burlington Quarry Expansion (From Region of Halton Report LPS08-20)
56320
The area proposed to be licensed for the pit and quarry is approximately 783 hectares (193 acres) however the extraction area is proposed to be 502 hectares (124 acres) The south quarry extension is 183 hectares (45 acres) with a proposed extraction area of 145 (36 acres) hectares The west quarry extension is 60 hectares (148 acres) with a proposed extraction area of 357 hectares (88 acres) Nelson has applied for a maximum tonnage of 2 million tonnes per year It is estimated that the Burlington quarry extension lands contain approximately 30 million tonnes of aggregate resources The existing Burlington Quarry site is located within the Bronte Creek watershed and proposed expansion lands are primarily located within the Grindstone Creek watershed The expansion lands contain andor are adjacent to features regulated by Conservation Halton (CH) including various tributaries of Grindstone Creek and the flooding and erosion hazards associated with these watercourses in addition to wetlands The site also contains hazardous lands in the form of karst topography and sensitive groundwater features and significant woodlands as well as provides habitat wildlife [Note Areas licensed for aggregate extraction under the ARA are exempt from CA permitting activities However CAs may bring technical expertise and local environmental and watershed knowledge into the application review processes CHrsquos role in the review process is discussed below] The lands are located within the Niagara Escarpment Plan (NEP) Area and are designated lsquoEscarpment Rural Arearsquo The lands are designated lsquoAgricultural Arearsquo and lsquoNatural Heritage Systemrsquo in the Regionrsquos Official Plan (OP) and lsquoEscarpment Rural Arearsquo in the City of Burlingtonrsquos OP As the site is subject to development control under Ontario Regulation 82690 of the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act (NEPDA) the site is not subject to the Cityrsquos Zoning By-Law There was a previous proposal for expansion to the mineral aggregate extraction area for the Burlington Quarry covering a larger area on the south side of No 2 Sideroad The extent of that application is shown on Figure 1 CH participated in the review of the 2004 proposal along with the Region of Halton the City of Burlington and the Niagara Escarpment Commission The applications for the previous proposal were referred to the Joint Board (consisting of the Ontario Municipal Board and Environmental Review Tribunal) The key issue with the proposal was related to the protection of Jefferson salamander habitat The Joint Board found that the proposal was not consistent with the purpose and objectives of the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act (NEPDA) and the NEP and not consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) and refused the expansion As illustrated on Figure 1 the current proposal includes a smaller portion of the lands from the previous 2004 proposal on the south side of No 2 Sideroad and also includes proposed extraction to the west of the existing quarry on the lands that are currently part of the Burlington Springs golf course Joint Agency Review Team Following the submission of the various applications staff from CH Halton Region City of Burlington and Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) initiated a Joint Agency Review Team (JART) The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and other provincial ministries as required will also participate in JART technical discussions
57320
The purpose of the JART is to share information and expertise as well as to review and respond to the application and submitted materials in a comprehensive and co-ordinated manner The JART will prepare coordinated technical comments on the reports submitted to inform decision making by the parties reviewing the various applications JART is not a decision-making body nor does it make recommendations on whether the proposal should be approved Rather the JARTrsquos role is to manage the technical review process including co-ordinating all agency technical review efforts and responding to the public and government decision-makers on issues and concerns The JART process reduces duplication promotes better government decision-making and provides the various approval agencies and applicant with a coordinated streamlined response A JART Protocol which outlines the purpose roles and responsibility of the JART was updated in February 2020 Application Hierarchy and Agency Roles
The proposed quarry expansion will require approvals under the ARA the NEPDA and the Planning Act The JART review process will take place during the legislated processes so that technical input can be provided to the decision-making bodies prior to any decisions being made The NEC must decide on the applications under the NEPDA prior to the Region City or the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) deciding on their respective applications As per subsection 24(3) of the NEPDA no approval or permission required by an Act that relates to development (such as the ARA or Planning Act) shall be made in respect of any land building or structure within an area of development control unless a Niagara Escarpment Development Permit has been issued Any amendment to the Regional Official Plan and a local Official Plan that deals with lands subject to the Niagara Escarpment Plan must be in conformity with the Niagara Escarpment Plan This makes conformity with the Niagara Escarpment Plan a precondition to other approvals for mineral aggregate extraction within the Niagara Escarpment Plan Area Unlike the other agencies Conservation Halton is not a decision-making body with respect to the Nelson quarry applications Under Section 28 (2) of the Conservation Authorities Act areas licensed for aggregate extraction under the ARA are exempt from CA permitting activities However CAs may bring technical expertise and local environmental and watershed knowledge into the application review processes CAs are afforded an opportunity to review and provide comments directly through their participating municipalities or through a JART to the MNRF on applications submitted under the ARA during the application review and consultation process MNRF is the approval authority for ARA license applications whereas the NEC is the approval authority for applications submitted pursuant to the NEPDA and municipalities Planning Act applications As with other applications submitted pursuant to the NEPDA or Planning Act CH will review the applications based on its delegated responsibility to represent the Province on the natural hazard policies of the PPS (311-317) and as a technical advisor providing advice on natural heritage and groundwater matters through the JART technical review process CH staff will also review the applications to ensure that the proposed works meet the intent of CHrsquos regulatory policies and requirements Process and Next Steps After the applications were filed with the MNRF NEC Region of Halton and City of Burlington in May of 2020 the applications were assessed for completeness by the various agencies
58320
On July 20 2020 the Region deemed the application to amend the Regional OP complete and the City of Burlington concurrently deemed the application to amend the Cityrsquos OP complete The NEP Amendment process was recommended for initiation and circulation at the August 20 2020 NEC meeting
At the time of report writing the MNRF has not yet deemed the ARA application complete as the provincial emergency order (COVID-19) has delayed the process by which the MNRF is required to deem the application complete Once the ARA application is deemed complete all agencies will have 45 days to file initial letters of objection CH the Region of Halton City of Burlington and NEC staff have all commenced the technical review of the applications and supporting studies and reports This review will be ongoing throughout the next year CH staff will keep the Board of Directors apprised of JARTs progress at critical review milestones
Impact on Strategic Goals This report supports the Metamorphosis strategic theme of Taking care of our growing communities The theme is supported by the objective to remain dedicated to ecosystem-based watershed planning that contributes to the development of sustainable rural urban and suburban communities Financial Impact There is no financial impact resulting from this report Signed amp respectfully submitted Approved for circulation
Barbara Veale PhD MCIP RPP Hassaan Basit Director Planning amp Watershed Management President amp CEOSecretary-Treasurer FOR QUESTIONS ON CONTENT Kellie McCormack Associate Director Planning amp
Regulations 905-336-1158 x2228 kmccormackhrcaonca
Leah Smith Manager Environmental Planning 905-336-1158 x2235 lsmithhrcaonca
59320
REPORT TO
REPORT NO
FROM
DATE
SUBJECT
Conservation Halton Board of Directors
CHBD 07 20 06
Craig Machan Associate Director Park Operations
October 22 2020
Strategic Forest Management Plan
Recommendation
THAT the Conservation Halton Board of Directors approve the Conservation Halton Strategic Forest Management Plan for 2020-2040
Executive Summary
Conservation Halton has been managing forests within its watersheds since its inception in 1963 and before that as the Sixteen Mile and Twelve Mile Creek Conservation Authorities For more than 50 years the Authority has protected restored managed and planted forests in the Halton watershed During this time more than 4 million trees were planted over 10840 acres (4387 ha) of largely forested lands are protected through ownership and contributing toward the delivery of more than 2471 forest canopy cover across the watershed
The Strategic Forest Management Plan reflects the ongoing evolution of this program within Conservation Halton and establishes a context for the next 20 years of our role as a leader in sustainable forest management
The Plan
bull Identifies a desire to take a landscape approach to forest management focussing less onindividual properties and more on the landscape scale and management of our forestresource
bull Re-establishes a commitment to sustainable management practices that place forest health asthe main outcome
bull Highlights the key pressures and challenges that our forests face from both global and localactivities changes and how these can be addressed through sustainable forest management
bull Supports Conservation Halton re-engaging in active sustainable forest management toensure that the current challenged condition of our forests is addressed
bull Takes an accountable approach to forest management with Key Performance Indicators builtinto the Plan
bull Re-defines a commitment to excellence and leadership in forest management
60320
Report
The purpose of the Strategic Forest Management Plan is
bull To enable Conservation Halton to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of our external partnerships
bull To redefine our forestry relationship with our partners bull To guide the delivery of services through Forests Ontario and 50 Million Tree program which
supports afforestation and increasing forest cover on private and public lands through funding bull To support the delivery of functions and services of our Conservation Areas through our
Master Plans bull To provide the tool to enable Conservation Halton to budget for its forest management
operations and activities The goals of the Plan are
bull To improve forest health conditions using current and future accepted methodologies and science
bull To maximise the value of our forests in delivering environmental goods and services social and health benefits and enhanced forest diversity
bull To maintain and where possible increase forest cover across our watershed through afforestation of Conservation Halton land acquisitions and on private municipal and corporate lands and through public education and landowner outreach programs
The Strategic Forest Management Plan will be reviewed in 2027 and 2037 (which aligns with the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Plan) and will be formally updated in 2040
The Full Strategic Forest Management Plan is attached to this report as Appendix A
Impact on Strategic Goals This report supports the Metamorphosis strategic theme of Preparing for the effects of climate change The theme is supported by the development of a forest management plan to ensure sustainability and relevance of our forests and forestry services
Financial Impact CH Staff will use the revenues generated through forestry programs such as Tree Planting to offset the cost of the Plan $20000 will be set aside as a contingency in the first year
Signed amp respectfully submitted Approved for circulation
Craig Machan Hassaan Basit Associate Director Parks Operations President amp CEOSecretary-Treasurer
FOR QUESTIONS ON CONTENT Jennifer Roberts Forest Technician Lead
905-336-1158 ext 2251 jrobertshrcaonca
61320
1
1
SECTION ONE Context Goal and Performance Measures
Conservation Halton | 2020
Strategic Forest Management Plan
62320
2
Executive Summary
Conservation Halton has been a manager of forests within its watersheds since its inception in 1963 and before
that as the Sixteen Mile and Twelve Mile Creek Conservation Authorities For more than 50 years the Authority
has protected restored managed and planted forests in the Halton watershed more than 4 million trees
planted over 10840 acres (4387 ha) of largely forested lands protected through ownership and contributing
toward the delivery of more than 2471 forest canopy cover across the watershed1
The Strategic Forest Management Plan reflects the ongoing evolution of Conservation Halton and establishes a
context for the next 20 years of our role as a leader in sustainable forest management the Plan
bull Identifies a desire to take a landscape approach to forest management focusing less on individual
properties and more on the landscape scale and management of our forest resource
bull Re-establishes a commitment to sustainable management practices that place forest health as the
principle outcome
bull Highlights the key pressures and challenges that our forests face from both global and local activities
changes and how these can be addressed through sustainable forest management
bull Supports Conservation Halton re-engaging in active sustainable forest management to ensure that the
current challenged condition of our forests is addressed
bull Takes an accountable approach to forest management with Key Performance Indicators built into the
Plan
bull Re-defines a commitment to excellence and leadership in forest management
The Plan is in three sections
1 Section 1 Context Goals and Approaches
2 Section 2 Forest Inventory
3 Section 3 Implementation ndash a rolling annual operational program supported by Forest Prescriptions
1 Data sourced from SOLRIS v3 data tallying SOLRIS Landcover types Conifer Forest Deciduous Forest Forest Hedged Rows Mixed Forest Plantation and Treed Swamp
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3
The Plan is driven by the following Vision and Mission
Our 20 Year Vision
Our working forest system will continue to support a range of habitat types and species richness that is vital in
providing environmental ecological and sociological goods and services Our forests will improve in health and
resiliency while we prioritize conservation of forest communities over timber production
Our mission to achieve this is
To sustainably manage Conservation Haltonrsquos forests in a changing climate while ensuring healthy resilient and
productive forests for the benefit of our environment and watershed communities Softwood plantations will
continue to be managed with the intent of conversion to natural mixed hardwood stands and where possible
selected mixed hardwood stands will be managed to include old growth forest characteristics
In summary the Plan identifies a 20-year vision delivered through a rolling five-year outlook of activities that
address three goals to be achieved through the Plan implementation
1 Goal 1 To improve forest health conditions using current and future accepted methodologies and
science
2 Goal 2 To maximise the value of our forests in delivering environmental goods and services social and
health benefits and enhanced forest diversity
3 Goal 3 To maintain and where possible increase forest cover across our watershed through
afforestation of Conservation Halton land acquisitions and on private municipal and corporate lands
and through public education and landowner outreach programs
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4
The Strategic Forest Management Plan
This Strategic Forest Management Plan (hereinafter the Plan) is laid out in three sections
Section One establishes a context for forest management at Conservation Halton It reflects on the strengths
weaknesses opportunities and threats that our forests face and represents the challenges and possibilities
that this poses on us as an agency Section One establishes a guideline for Conservation Halton for its forests
and lays out a series of Strategic Themes Forests by their nature have extended lives and so these Themes are
developed with a timescale appropriate to the subject ndash Section One is written to provide a broad context to
guide forest management for a 20-year period (2020 ndash 2040)
Section Two establishes the current resource by way of a comprehensive inventory Each forest stand will be
recorded each parcel of land managed by Conservation Halton will be reflected within this inventory Maps
that capture the current condition and pressures on our forests will be developed Much of this stems from
extensive records already developed however there are areas that we do not yet have full details on and
areas with outdated information on them The Plan will lay out a tool for undertaking this inventory populated
with information that is current It is envisioned that Section 2 will eventually be an electronic resource (Forest
Information Management System or FIMS) through Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technology The
goal will be to keep all inventory current within 5 years so this will be an ongoing inventory and will be updated
continuously
Section Three will establish activities that meet a range of social outreach and forest cover targets as well as
themes that stem from and are suited to the needs of each forest management stand based on the
information in Section Two Section Three needs to be agile and flexible to allow us to adapt to both to external
pressures and organisational change As such Section Two and Three include a detailed 1-year Operational
Plan accompanied by a list of priority properties needing forest management As forest inventory data is
collected staff will create a rolling five-year outlook that will be updated as properties are prepared for
operations Activities will be listed with annual targets for operations across forests and each year activities
completed will be reviewed and the list revised to ensure it always maintains a five-year outlook
Section Three will be supported by the development of forest management prescriptions for each stand These
will be developed as the comprehensive plan to deliver the activities in Section Three These prescriptions do
not form part of the plan but are an important element of delivery For complex forest management stands
prescriptions could take up to five years to develop for simple forest management activities they could be
created in a few weeks
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5
Contents
SECTION ONE Context Goal and Performance Measures 1
Executive Summary 2
The Strategic Forest Management Plan 4
Contents 5
Background 9
Who We Are 9
What We Do 10
The Forestry Department 11
Purpose and Scope of The Plan 12
Forest Context 14
Landscape Context 14
Recreation and Community Engagement16
Silvicultural Context 17
Relevant Legislation and Policies 21
Partners Stakeholders and Linkages 23
Land Securement Land Management amp Stewardship 25
Land Securement 25
Land RestorationRehabilitation 25
Stewardship 25
Forest Values 26
Canada Target 1 26
Ecosystem Services 26
Municipal Natural Assets Initiative for Grindstone Creek 28
Timber Values 29
Forest Health and Management 30
Forest Health and Resilience 30
Forest Health Metrics 31
Forest Cover 32
Tree Planting Programs 33
Seed Stock 33
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6
Forest Establishment and Growth 34
Foundations of Forest Management 35
Sustainable Forest Management 35
Mimic Natural Disturbance 35
Old Growth amp Interior Forest Habitat 36
Management Challenges and Opportunities 36
Structural and Biological Diversity 37
Climate Change 37
Invasive Species 38
Species at Risk 40
Hazard Tree Management 42
Recreational Use 43
Development Pressure 43
Forest Health Monitoring 44
Summary 46
Objectives of Forest Management 47
Definitions 50
References 54
Appendices 57
Appendix 11 Forest Management and Sustainability Policy 58
Appendix 12 Conservation Halton Properties by Land Class59
Appendix 13 Invasive Species Evaluation and Prioritization 60
Appendix 14 Management Recommendations for Species at Risk 61
Bats eastern small-footed myotis little brown myotis northern myotis (aka northern long-eared bat) tri-
coloured bat 61
Butternut 64
Jefferson salamander 65
Snapping turtle 67
West Virginia white 68
Appendix 15 Forest Management Approaches for Climate Change 69
Appendix 16 Managing Hazard Trees Policy 70
SECTION TWO Forest Inventory 71
Introduction 72
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7
Inventory Approach 73
Appendix 21 Example of Compartment Attributes Collected during Forest Inventory 74
SECTION THREE Implementation 77
Introduction 78
Conservation Haltonrsquos Managed Forest 78
Appendix 31 Management Plan 84
Recommendations
RECOMMENDATION 1 Update Forest Inventory to inform strategic forest management 19
RECOMMENDATION 2 Continue to build support and develop relationships with partners and agencies where
there is a joint benefit 24
RECOMMENDATION 3 Develop and sustain meaningful relationships with First Nation Metis and Indigenous
partners that seek opportunities for increased engagement and mutually beneficial partnerships 24
RECOMMENDATION 4 Support active land securement by building relationships with private landowners
through landowner education regarding Ecogifts program andor designate a percentage of timber revenues to
the Land Securement budget 25
RECOMMENDATION 5 Ensure that the lsquovaluersquo provided by the forest infrastructure on Conservation Halton
lands is reflected in the emerging asset management framework 29
RECOMMENDATION 6 Establish a Forest Reserve Budget to enable timber revenues to be dedicated toward the
continued growth and improvement in Conservation Halton Forests 29
RECOMMENDATION 7 Monitor and improve overall forest health and wildlife habitat throughout Conservation
Halton forests 32
RECOMMENDATION 8 Maintain current forest cover percentage through the management of the Conservation
Halton forests and by working with watershed partners32
RECOMMENDATION 9 Promote private landowner tree planting programs to engage a wider community in the
importance and value of forested landscapes 33
RECOMMENDATION 10 Continue to support a vibrant local seed stock within southern Ontario nurseries by
providing a reliable local seed source 34
RECOMMENDATION 11 Manage for long term forest health by promoting and utilizing Sustainable Forest
Management principles and practices that meet or exceed current standards 35
RECOMMENDATION 12 Identify and manage appropriate stands toward lsquoold growthrsquo characteristics recognising
that the human environment surrounding our forests will rarely allow for true old growth forests 37
RECOMMENDATION 13 Build resiliency in our forests with climate change mitigation and adaptation by
maintaining and enhancing forest science knowledge for forest management practices 38
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8
RECOMMENDATION 14 Establish an Invasive Species Management Program and manage invasive and non-
native plant species on Conservation Halton properties where possible 40
RECOMMENDATION 15 Adopt leading practice through sustainable forest management to conserve and
improve forest habitat for the benefit of Species at Risk 41
RECOMMENDATION 16 Maintain a responsive hazard tree program and reduce risk of hazard trees through
proactive Sustainable Forest Management 43
RECOMMENDATION 17 Continue to monitor for forest pests and diseases including invasive species and
establish greater interdepartmental collaboration on monitoring programs 45
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9
Background
Who We Are
Conservation Halton works to sustainably protect restore and manage natural resources throughout the watershed from lake to escarpment Our vision is to sustain a healthy watershed with clean streams vigorous forests abundant green space and balanced growth that results in strong livable communities Our mandate is to create avenues for sustainable synergy between the natural world we live in and the 625000 (growing to an estimated 1m by 2041) residents that
make up the Conservation Halton watershed
With many new neighbourhoods and growing communities within our watershed it is Conservation Haltonrsquos priority to protect the people homes and businesses within our watershed from the risk of flooding and erosion through planning and regulation We also make it our priority to support sustainable innovative approaches to infrastructure and land use that protect and restore the natural environment enable community growth and contribute to a thriving economy
The natural systems within our watershed are essential for clean air safe water healthy ecosystems biological diversity climate change resilience and flood and erosion control It is our mandate to protect and restore the lands forests and water features needed to support these natural systems and maintain the features and functions that promote the environmental integrity of our watershed We work to conserve the landscapes that create opportunities for recreation and tourism and the landmarks that define our natural cultural and indigenous heritage
Healthy watersheds and resilient ecosystems enable us to reduce and better respond to the effects of climate change Understanding the impacts of climate change such as potential flooding drought and erosion will increase the ability of our watershed to adapt to these changes and support our communities agricultural lands and natural environment We will also address the impacts of climate change on biodiversity such as species and habitat loss and invasive species
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10
Our watershed is abundant with forests trails streams and waterbodies which offer endless opportunities for active and passive outdoor recreation Our parks provide diverse opportunities to connect people with nature support the health and wellness of those who live in our communities and create living classrooms for children to learn about the natural world It is important that these opportunities be provided in an environmentally sustainable way while minimising disruption to plant and animal habitats or any of the natural features and functions of the environment
To achieve our goals and objectives as an organization we will continue to use innovative technologies best practices and creative solutions to operate in a way that is more effective efficient and agile We will listen cooperate and take a proactive approach to accountability and transparency We will pursue knowledge share our expertise and offer leadership Above all we will strive for service excellence for our customers clients partners staff and landscape
What We Do
Conservation Halton owns and manages more than 10840 acres (4387 ha) of land across its watersheds These
lands represent a diverse mix of habitats and woodland types with over 63 of the lands being forested The
Forestry department is responsible for managing around 7000 acres (2834 ha) of forests under various
programs such as the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program the Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program the
Ash and Hazard Tree Management Program and trails and maintenance programs Conservation Haltonrsquos areas
of focus include education recreation and water and forest resource management Educational and recreational
experiences in natural environments enrich the lives of people of all ages by instilling awareness and
appreciation of the watershedrsquos natural heritage Conservation Halton manages water resources using
integrated ecologically sound environmental practices to maintain secure supplies of clean water to protect
communities from flooding and erosion and to ensure that environmental planning is an integral part of
community development
Forests form a major part of the natural resources owned and managed by Conservation Haltonand play an
important role in determining the quantity and quality of water in the watershed Our forests form an important
ecological network across our watersheds protecting and enhancing both the natural heritage and quality of life
71320
11
of those who live in our watershed These forests provide important landscape recreation economic and
ecological-service values and represent an iconic element of the Conservation Halton mandate Our goal is to
manage this large forest resource using sustainable forest management practices while educating the public on
the importance of the natural environment and why we need to be proactive in managing a resource that is
facing increasing pressures Mandatory programs under the CA Act stipulate
211 (1) An authority shall provide the following programs or services within its area of jurisdiction
1 A program or service that meets any of the following descriptions and that has been prescribed by the regulations
i Programs and services related to the risk of natural hazards
ii Programs and services related to the conservation and management of lands owned or controlled by the authority including any interests in land registered on title
The Forestry Department
The Forestry Department consists of an Arborist team and a Technical team currently within our Park Operations team The Departmentrsquos role is to plan implement and monitor the management of Conservation Haltonrsquos forests and to deliver sustainable forest and hazard tree management The Forestry Department also provides support and services to internal departments and private landowners within the Conservation Halton watershed Forestry staff offer services to landowners at a fee such as but not limited to creating Managed Forest Plans (under the Managed Forest Tax Incentive program) tree marking and tree planting The Forestry Department works in a close partnership with many teams within Conservation Halton
bull Parks Our parks encompass approximately half of the total land that Conservation Halton manages These are operating recreational facilities with hazard tree and forest management services
bull Lands Our property portfolio is extensive and Forestry carries out tree planting invasive species control hazard tree and forest management on these lands Through Managed Forest and Conservation Lands Tax Incentive Programs Conservation Halton realizes significant financial cost savings on property taxes In 2020 these savings were estimated to be $356000year
bull Stewardship Our Stewardship team is engaged in landowner outreach through a wide variety of programs A close partnership between our Forestry and Stewardship teams means that landowners can benefit from the expertise offered from both teams as well as accessing available funding opportunities
bull Restoration Our Restoration team provides services to a range of landowners that are looking to engage in environmental restoration programs Tree planting advice is provided and stock is secured by our Forestry team who provides advice on which species align best with soil and climate conditions of planting sites
bull Ecology The skillset between Forestry and Ecology is shared Ecological Land Classification (ELC) work as an example is delivered by and a shared resource of both teams
bull Planning and Regulations Our Planning and Watershed Management team provides planning expertise to help facilitate approvals for planning matters on our lands and regulatory oversight for ensuring that our parks operations and works comply with our legislation
72320
12
bull Engineering Our Engineering team manages dams and flood control structures which are located across our watershed Forestry provides the operational support in the management of the treed areas bordering these structures
bull Education Our outreach and education teams are supported by Forestry in the delivery of a wide range of programs including Maple Town the annual Water and Forest Festivals and Fall into Nature
Not only is Forestry a key support and part of the output of each of these teams but each of these teams provides support advice and expertise to our Forestry programs This Plan attempts to encompass the totality of the Forestry programs at Conservation Halton while focussing on the operational element of our forest resource The core focus of the Forestry Department is
bull To manage the existing forest resource using accepted best practices of government and industry
bull To mitigate the effects of climate change
bull To enhance the existing forest resource responsibly and sustainably
bull To inspire and educate landowners on the importance of forested lands
bull Build on our role as a leader in forest management within the watershed
bull To support the provision of safe and enjoyable recreational experience to those users of Conservation Halton lands
Purpose and Scope of The Plan
This document will be used to plan prioritise and meaningfully report on the management activities of
Conservation Halton designed to promote healthy and resilient forests now and into the future
The delivery and accomplishment of the Plan objectives will rely upon the breadth of expertise at
Conservation Halton From engaging internal corporate services such as Information Technology Services (IT)
and Geographic Information Services (GIS) to collaborative work with all other Conservation Halton teams
from Stewardship to Ecology and Planning and Engineering to Communications to working with divisional
peers in our Parks the delivery of this Plan relies on developing maintaining and growing internal
partnerships
The Plan will enable Conservation Halton to maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of our external
partnerships and relationships to reach our forest health goals From supporting landscape-scale strategic
approaches of provincial plans such as the Niagara Escarpment Plan to providing a context for discussion
with ministerial colleagues such as the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) the Plan will be a
key tool guiding Conservation Haltonrsquos approach to implementing provincial forestry guidelines processes
and plans
Further the Plan is intended to redefine the forestry relationship with MNRF and the Municipal Property
Assessment Corporation (MPAC) We have streamlined our role within the tax base we manage by replacing
over 30 individual plans with a single document submitted to the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program
(MFTIP) Likewise the potential impacts to the involvement in the Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program
(CLTIP) will be planned for within this document providing a single overarching plan empowering
Conservation Halton to maximise the savings realized through these programs
The Plan will also guide other external relationships and partnerships such as with District School Boards
Municipalities and particularly the Halton Region It will guide our delivery of services through Forests Ontario
73320
13
and the 50 Million Tree program which in turn establishes the basis and funding for supporting afforestation
and increasing forest cover on private and public lands
The Plan supports the delivery of a series of Master Plans that guide Conservation Haltonrsquos functions and
services in our Conservation Areas These Master Plans have developed a Forest Management and
Sustainability Policy endorsed and supported by the Niagara Escarpment Commission which this Strategic
Forest Management Plan mirrors builds on and guides the implementation of healthy forests across our land
holdings (Appendix 11) Lastly the Plan will provide a tool to enable Conservation Halton to budget for and
resource its forest management operations and activities It will help us identify where there are expenses
savings and revenue opportunities to offset activities
This 20-year Plan will be reviewed each time the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Plan for Conservation Halton
properties is being renewed (2027 and 2037) and will be formally updated in 2040
74320
14
Forest Context
Landscape Context
The Conservation Halton watershed spans approximately 1000 km2 of land includes 17 flowing creeks
approximately 26 km of Lake Ontario shoreline extensive forest cover and 80 km of Ontariorsquos Niagara
Escarpment (a World Biosphere Reserve) Conservation Halton recognizes three different conservation
classifications for properties based in part on conservation value and are characterized by different
management approaches and by the level of public access and support for recreational activities Properties are
classified as Conservation Areas (8062 acres) Conservation Reserve (665 acres) and Natural Areas (1904 acres)
(Figure 1 Appendix 1 1) Please refer to the Land Securement Strategy (2017) for the definitions of these
classifications
Of this land 5121 ac (2072 ha) is enrolled in Ontariorsquos Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program (CLTIP) (Figure
2) A further 1744 ac (706 ha) is Managed Forest forest managed under Ontariorsquos Managed Forest Tax Incentive
Figure 1 Conservation Halton land holdings by classification type
75320
15
Program (MFTIP) Based on MFTIP property data coniferous (39) and mixed (33) plantations make up the
bulk of the forest and upland forest accounts for a further 11
As of 2020 there are 26 Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI) on Conservation Halton properties These are terrestrial or wetland areas with features having high value for protection natural heritage appreciation scientific research or education Five ANSIs located on Conservation Halton land have been declared as regionally significant these include
bull Clappison Escarpment Woods
bull Mountsberg Wildlife Centre
bull Kilbride Swamp
bull Lake Medad Meltwater Channel
bull Clappison Escarpment Woods Forests can also be riparian ndash as such they provide important benefits by filtering pollutants and sediment cooling water and protecting habitat and mitigating reducing the impacts of natural hazard processes like erosion and flooding They are also part of the Natural Heritage System (NHS) as defined and identified by municipal Official Plan policies Several NHS have been identified within the Conservation Areas These areas warrant a high degree of careful management because they provide essential ecosystem services and may also provide ancillary benefits for scientific research education or recreation The following Conservation Halton lands lie within the designated NHSrsquos of the Halton Region
bull Lake Medad Tract is situated with the Lake Medad and Medad Valley NHS
bull Mount Nemo Conservation Area is situated within the Mount Nemo Escarpment Woods NHS
bull Sixteen Valley Conservation Area is part of the Sixteen Mile Creek Valley NHS
bull Crawford Lake Conservation Area (Tract 1) and Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area are within NHS
bull Crawford Lake ndash Rattlesnake Point Escarpment Woods NHS
Figure 2 Conservation Halton holdings by land class type (left) Conservation Halton MFTIP holdings by forest type (right)
76320
16
bull Calcium Pits contains two Conservation Authority properties which include Crawford Lake Tract 2 and the Yaremko Ridley property (OHT)
bull Hilton Falls Conservation Area is located within the Hilton Falls Complex NHS
bull Harrison Tract is situated within the Guelph Junction Woods NHS
bull Moffat Swamp NHS contains the Bunker Tract
bull Kelso Conservation Area lies with the Milton Heights NHS
One of Conservation Haltonrsquos properties is situated within NHS identified by the Wellington County Planning and Development Committee 1982
bull The McCrodan Tract lies within the Moffat Marsh NHS
Another is located across Hamilton Wellington and Halton municipalities
bull Mountsberg Conservation Area is situated within the Mountsberg Wildlife Area NHS
Recreation and Community Engagement
Conservation Halton offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities that attract a high number of visitors to our Conservation Areas ndash approximately 1 million people a year The use of forested lands has steadily increased in recent years and this trend is expected to continue This upward trend in visitation is driven by several factors not least of which is the proximity of the large urban centres- Milton Oakville Burlington and Hamilton- within the watershed but also the proximity of the Greater Toronto Area Halton Region is the fastest growing community in Canada and is expected to double in population to more than 1 million residents by 2041 Combined with the iconic backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment and the shores of Lake Ontario the area is seen as a mecca for outdoor recreation day trips making Conservation Halton land holdings a favourite destination for a large population of southern Ontario The Bruce Trail runs through several Conservation Halton owned and managed properties adding to Conservation Haltonrsquos trail network for hikers to enjoy the natural features of the watershed mountain biking snowshoeing cross country skiing rock climbing geocaching camping and down hill skiing are popular programs Conservation Halton offers at specific properties Our forest and trail systems allow for ecological and recreational connectivity between Hamilton and Burlington as we work with many agencies under the Hamilton-Burlington Trails Council
The delivery of recreational opportunities within our Conservation Areas is steered by Master Plans trails policies and Land Classification systems that support a diverse range of recreational opportunities across our forests As an initiative the support of recreation in a Strategic Forest Management Plan context indicates the importance of the provision and maintenance of access and recreational opportunities and the critical need for management programs that promote healthy forests within which recreation can occur This will also indicate where recreational activities need to be limited to minimize disturbance to fragile ecosystems
Education about our woodlands is vital to creating awareness about ecosystem services and is delivered by a broad cross section of Conservation Halton departments Our forestry staff engage the public through a variety of programs offered to landowners within the watershed through site visits tree planting programs forest management plans and promotional materials These efforts align with educational programs offered by other departments such as Science and Partnerships (including Stewardship and Festival programming) Communications and programming offered at our Conservation Areas Ongoing education is an essential part of this plan and cements our roles within the watershed as experts
77320
17
These uses and the continuing growth in use of Conservation Halton properties contains challenges Once rural properties and forests are now urban fringe greenspaces and experience high levels of informal visitation our Conservation Areas once visited by half as many people are dealing with challenges in trail and user management As use grows so does the adverse pressure placed on our forest ecosystem From direct impacts such as soil compaction trail expansion and understory impacts to indirect impacts such as invasive species introduction litter and the threat of accidental fire damage our forest management must account for and mitigate against the impacts of human use of our forests
Conservation Halton is committed to engaging people in its work conserving our forests be that through the provision and support of recreational facilities within our forests or the support of educational and outreach opportunities Actively supporting people in being engaged in our greenspaces is critical in support of protecting and enhancing our forested lands
Silvicultural Context
The Halton Region Conservation Authority (now referred to as Conservation Halton) was formed in 1963 from an amalgamation of Sixteen Mile Creek (est 1956) and Twelve Mile Creek (est 1958) Conservation Authorities (CAs) An early recommendation for the original CAs was ldquothat the Authority establish woodlot improvement projects on its own properties to demonstrate the advantages of better forestry practicesrdquo Since inception Conservation Halton has been acquiring land for the purposes of natural resource management and environmental protection of a range of environmental features and currently owns over 10840 acres of land Throughout the next few sections a list of recommendations will be provided to help accomplish the Strategic Forest Management Planrsquos goals For the full list of recommendations please see Summary of Plan Recommendations on page 49 Conservation Halton has a rich history of forest management Tree planting has been a priority for Conservation Halton since 1956 4359334 trees have been planted through Conservation Halton forestry programs on private land municipal properties Regional properties and Conservation Halton properties (Figure 3)
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18
Conservation Halton has worked with many different provincial and federal programs to advance forest management some of which are listed below
Ontario Power Generation (OPG) Carbon SequestrationBiodiversity Management Program on
Conservation Halton lands OPG in 2000 announced the above program to plant at least one million
native trees and shrubs over three-years as part of its carbon offset and sequestration program The
program sought to mitigate climate change through reforestation and restoration efforts and
enhanced habitat for threatened species that are at risk due to the loss and fragmentation of woodlot
habitat Key forested areas were to be expanded to connect and link fragmented forested patches and
to create and protect interior forest habitat Conservation Halton planted more than 300000 native
and non-native trees and shrubs across Conservation Halton properties between 2001 and 2005 as part
of this program
Conservation Services on Private Land In the spring of 1998 Conservation Halton embarked on the largest single private property reforestation project The landowner had become disillusioned with farming practices and decided to convert 60 ac of farmland to forest cover A total of 58150 trees were planted Since 2005 Conservation Halton has been offering a private landowner tree planting program with the support of Forest Ontario To date this program has planted over 820000 trees in our watershed
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19
Until the mid to late 1990rsquos forest management in Conservation Halton forests was proactive guided by a series of forest management plans and implemented by Conservation Haltonrsquos 20-30 person forestry team There were sufficient resources both human and equipment to manage the forests in this way Management continued on a much smaller scale into the early 2000s but with the increasing environmental stressors extreme weather and invasive species forest management demands have increased Set against more restrictive policies (NEC MNRF SAR) budgets staffing equipment and lack of internal support for proactive management the forestry program became reactive responding to external factors such as ice damage invasive insects and diseases In addition the overall forest inventory is about 10-15 years out of date further limiting our ability to manage these forests proactively Updating the inventory is recognized as a key component of our Section 3 five year rolling operational plan
Where forest management activities are proposed management proposals and stand prescriptions are reviewed by a Registered Professional Forester and internal staff to ensure that ecological and recreational values are properly recognized This process will be followed before any operations commence to ensure that recreational opportunities and other programs are minimally disrupted Once internally approved the Regional Forester is contacted for bylaw consideration and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks will be engaged to provide further guidance and approvals as needed Prescriptions for properties within the Niagara Escarpment Plan area are also reviewed by the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC)
RECOMMENDATION 1 Update Forest Inventory to inform strategic forest management
Figure 3 Number of trees planted by Conservation Halton per year 1960-2017
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20
This process for a simple management operation might take as little as 2 ndash 6 months for a complex operation this process could take five years Some examples of good forest management planning and implementation that Conservation Halton has undertaken with partners include
1 Silviculture Upland Hardwood Management In 1999 The Forestry Department proposed forest management operations on a 366 ac stand of sugar maple and red oak (Stand lsquoErsquo) in the Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area Management objectives included improving forest health and mitigating visitor risk by removing hazard trees along trails maintaining ecological integrity and wildlife habitat and improving stem form and vigour A single tree selection silvicultural system was prescribed and implemented during the winter of 1999-2000 with operations adhering to Good Forestry Practices Total volume harvested was 4756 m3 and resulted in $37160 in stumpage revenues
2 Oak Decline Mount Nemo Conservation Area 2003 In the fall of 2002 forestry staff observed a decline
in the health of red oak at the ecologically significant Mount Nemo Conservation Area During the same period the Town of Oakville observed similar decline issues at the Iroquois Shoreline woods park A panel of experts recommended reducing stand vulnerability and maximizing stand and tree growth and vigour by removing high-risk trees while maintaining andor increasing tree species age class and structural diversity within the stand Of critical importance the site was to continue to provide suitable wildlife and interior forest habitat for vulnerable species at risk (SAR) known to inhabit the area A thinning prescription was written to target poor quality stems and to remove healthy trees to maintain recommended provincial spacing and stocking standards Hazards trees along walking trails were removed A buffer was established along the escarpment brow to protect ecologically fragile areas With the harvesting of the declining trees the health of the stand was improved and the shade density of tolerant competitors was decreased to attempt to maintain the relative abundance of oaks in the forest The harvest of this 59ac stand resulted in $46260 in timber sales It is also an example of the constructive networking with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) Town of Oakville
Program reviewed externally by
Regional Forester NEC and MNRF as
applicable
Proposal and Description Reviewed
Internally by Forestry amp Ecology
Management Proposal and Stand
Prescription Developed
Forest Management
Activity Proposed
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21
Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) the Halton Region and the US Forest Service (USFS) to achieve the desired results as prescribed
3 Plantation Thinning Conservation Halton has a long history of reforestation and afforestation efforts
across the watershed dating back to the early 1960rsquos Plantations were created to foster the conversion
of marginal and fragile lands to mixed forests over time After establishment these plantations require
periodic thinning to allow the natural regeneration to occur During the period of 2005-2008 119 ac of
conifer plantations located on six properties were thinned to create canopy gaps thereby allowing for
greater amounts of sunlight to reach the forest floor to allow germination of hardwood seedlings that
will eventually convert the stand to mixed hardwood forests Over the next 10-15 years these same
stands will require a second thinning or selectionimprovement cuts to promote the better-quality
stems that remain Thinning plantations for stand conversion are an important part of the five-year
outlook of this Strategic Forest Management Plan initiative
Relevant Legislation and Policies
Forest management planning and prescriptions for Conservation Halton are compliant with federal and
provincial Acts and policies as well as municipal by-laws and internal Conservation Halton policies and
regulations (Table 1)
The Conservation Authorities Act helps manage renewable natural resources and protects people and property
through the management of watersheds The purpose of the Act is ldquoto provide for the organization and delivery
of programs and services that further the conservation restoration development and management of natural
resources in watersheds in Ontariordquo
responsibilities and governance in resource management and environmental protection
Mandatory programs under the Act include programs and services related to the conservation and management
of lands owned or controlled by the authority
The Halton Tree By-Law for example was enacted to prohibit or regulate the destruction or injury of trees in
Halton Region It is a tool to promote healthy forests protect forest ecosystems and prevent clearcutting of
woodlands Conservation Halton adheres to all elements of the Halton tree bylaw and follows Good Forestry
Practices through tree harvest permit applications administered and reviewed by the regional Forester
Provincial Acts such as the Endangered Species Act (ESA) provide science-based assessment automatic legal
protection for species classified as endangered or threatened as well as protection of the speciesrsquo habitat
When the presence of an endangered or threatened species is identified within the area of potential forestry
operations Conservation Haltonrsquos forestry group in collaboration with MNRF and Conservation Halton ecologists
and biologists reviews the species of concern and its habitat Conservation Halton applies for cutting permits
and follows the guiding principles and policies on categorizing and protecting habitat under the ESA with an
emphasis on the use and characteristics of the affected habitat
Another example is the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act It provides protection to migratory birds during
periods of nesting breeding and fledging Nesting periods are associated with broad geographical areas across
Canada referred to as nesting zones Conservation Haltonrsquos watershed lies within nesting zone C2 with a
82320
22
nesting period from the end of March to the end of August Conservation Halton will not undertake any non-
emergency forestry operations during the aforementioned dates Further Conservation Halton will ensure that
ecological support is sought to provide advice in a pre-planning phase for undertaking and managing any such
operations
Table 1 Acts Policies and Regulations Informing Forest Management Planning and Activities
Jurisdiction Act or Policy
Federal Migratory Birds Conservation Act Department of Fisheries and Oceans Acts and Policy Forestry Act Plant Protection Act Species at Risk Act
Provincial Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act Endangered Species Act Professional Foresters Act Environmental Assessment Act Fish amp Wildlife Conservation Act Forestry Act (Ontario) Greenbelt Act Planning Act Invasive Species Act Ontario Heritage Act
Conservation Authorities Act and Regulations Pesticides Act
Local Official plans of Halton Hamilton Peel and County of Wellington by-laws amp regulations eg Halton Region Tree By-law (121-05) WatershedSub-watershed Studies
Internal Conservation Halton regulations re development wetland interference and alterations to shoreline and watercourses (Ont Reg 16206)
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23
Partners Stakeholders and Linkages
Conservation Halton collaborates with several Provincial agencies The NEC and the MNRF both have an advisory
role in the management of our forests We are the property steward for the Ontario Heritage Trust properties
that are located within our watershed (Yaremko Yaremko-Ridley and the Little Tract) providing management
monitoring and reporting We manage and are actively rehabilitating Glenorchy one of Infrastructure Ontariorsquos
properties
Conservation Halton also has partnerships and collaborations with local municipalities Collaborative
relationships include land management agreements and consultation on land and forest stewardship For
example we assist Halton Region in managing Regional lands providing technical expertise in tree planting trail
maintenance invasive species and hazard tree management Conversely 2 Conservation Halton properties in
Burlington (Kerncliff Park Burlington Beach strip) are managed by City of Burlington staff Additional
partnership planting projects have taken place with Ontario Hydro Enbridge Union Gas and CRH Canada Inc
(Dufferin Aggregates)
Conservation Halton is a Planting Delivery Agent for Forests Ontariorsquos 50 Million Tree program This program
endeavors to plant 50 million trees in Ontario by 2025 To date Conservation Halton has planted approximately
820000 under the 50 Million Tree and other Forests Ontario tree planting Programs averaging approximately
65000 treesyear on both private and public lands As of 2019 the annual planting rates are closer to 30000 ndash
50000year In addition to planting on private land we have delivered tree planting projects for the
municipalities of Burlington Oakville Milton Hamilton and the Halton Region
We partner with several research groups with our involvement ranging from sitting in on committee meetings to
offering Conservation Halton lands for data collection The Forest Gene Conservation Association (FGCA) is a
science and research partner for woody species at risk planning and management Their mission is to broadly
promote forest gene conservation and to advise and assist members and associates to apply genetic resource
management principles within their forest conservation and management programs in urban and rural
landscapes in southern Ontario Conservation Halton plans on supporting this mission through partnerships and
projects related to climate change and afforestation as well as reporting on and collecting seed from healthy
target species at direction from FGCA and partner nurseries Assisted migration trials will also soon be underway
as a part of mitigating climate change
Bioforest Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Conservation Halton formed a partnership in late 2016 to
create a simulated Asian Long Horned Beetle (ALHB) infestation at Kelso Conservation Area and at Mountsberg
CA The goal was to assess the practicality and utility in using drone technology to detect simulated signs of
ALHB infestation (oviposition pits chew marks exit holes etc) The drone used was a military grade unit
equipped with a camera capable of thirty times magnification It was flown by AirVu a company specializing in
drone flight and image analysis The flight was repeated in the spring of 2017 and can be used into the future as
a teaching tool both internally and by other partnerships agencies
Other research partnerships include a Canadian Forestry Service butternut monitoring project in 2010
University of Toronto research on American Elm resistance to Dutch Elm disease was conducted in our forests
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24
At a corporate level Conservation Halton is working toward recognizing indigenous rights and engaging with
First Nations Metis and indigenous communities by fostering an open line of communication In particular the
Forestry Department has been in communication with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation
An external Forestry consultant was hired to develop the SFMP along with Forestry and Ecology staff Going
forward internal staff will continue to provide input and advice about management of Conservation Halton
forests and will expand to include park staff and other potential stakeholders MNRF and NEC review and
permitsapprovals will be sought out where necessary
Ecology and Forestry staff at Conservation Halton are actively involved with programs such as the Ontario
Invasive Plant Council (OIPC) the Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) Network of Ontario and the Hemlock
Woolly Adelgid (HWA) working group for forest managers with goals of early detection and management
planning for significant invasive species In addition the Ecology team support an extensive network of
Environmental Monitoring and Network (EMAN) Forest plots that are being studied for long-term
environmental changes on Conservation Halton properties Permanent sample plots (PSP) were established in
2002 across the watershed to monitor gypsy moth populations using the Modifed Kaladar Plot system and are
remeasured on an annual basis Forestry staff helped Parks staff set up a permanent sample plot at Mountsberg
CA called Climate Change SOS for educational purposes This plot is based on EMAN protocols and is remeasured
annually with various high school groups
RECOMMENDATION 2 Continue to build support and develop relationships with partners and agencies where there is a joint benefit
RECOMMENDATION 3 Develop and sustain meaningful relationships with First Nation Metis and Indigenous partners that seek opportunities for increased engagement and mutually beneficial partnerships
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25
Land Securement Land Management amp Stewardship
Land Securement
Land securement is the activity of acquiring lands via direct ownership transfer or conservation easements and
has been an important aspect for Conservation Halton to ensure long-term environmental protection and
resource management Since 1956 Conservation Halton has acquired 10860 acres 1200 acres of these have
been secured over the last 20 years With the recent approval of a new Conservation Haltonrsquos Land
Securement Strategy 2017 it is hoped that new land might come available for afforestation projects
Specific to forestry land securement has allowed for the growth of sustainable forest management within the
Halton Watershed as well as afforestation uptake through a consistent and ongoing planting program by the
Forestry team In addition to Conservation Halton owned and managed forests afforestation efforts
supported by private landowners enable Conservation Halton to meet afforestation targets These
partnerships also open up significant opportunity for relationship building towards future land donations and
securement of privately owned lands Land Securement will be a critical tool in achieving long-term
afforestation targets and would help connect forests via linkages or enhance existing natural areas by
increasing forest interior habitat
Land RestorationRehabilitation
Land restoration is the process of improvement or recovery of damaged degraded or destroyed ecosystems In this process land is rehabilitated to provide higher functional levels of services and productivity however the land does not recover its pre-existing condition or function
Restoration is a valuable tool in delivering improved ecosystem services and creates a visual landscape that helps to engender support for conservation efforts Restoring brownfield sites creating tree buffers along creek systems and restoring areas of abandoned farmlands to natural heritage systems all help deliver improved regional ecosystem services and forest cover They are also ideal opportunities for public engagement as restoration works can be impactful on local landscapes and provide opportunity for community participation
Stewardship
To create and maintain a healthy environment it is essential to promote a culture of environmental stewardship
with private landowners Stewardship programs are an outreach service offered by Conservation Halton to
willing landowners who wish to learn more about the natural features that exist on their properties or who may
be prepared to implement water quality and habitat improvement projects on their lands Stewardship staff
provide expertise and support in developing and implementing enhancement projects They also provide
financial assistance towards the implementation of projects when funding is available Projects range in scope
RECOMMENDATION 4 Support active land securement by building relationships with private landowners through landowner education regarding Ecogifts program andor designate a percentage of timber revenues to the Land Securement budget
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26
from large scale creek restoration to agricultural projects like manure storage to smaller scale community-
based projects such as rain gardens Stewardship projects often incorporate tree and shrub planting and forest
management activities and include corporate and other community volunteer events
In addition to providing education and assistance to private landowners Conservation Halton also recognizes
landowners who are environmental stewards through a voluntary award program called the Watershed
Stewardship Award Landowners who are offered and accept this award receive a metal plaque to display at the
end of their laneway or keep indoors to proudly show the efforts they have made on their property to protect
the natural features As of 2020 there are over 4480 acres (1813 ha) of privately owned lands that have been
recognized for good environmental stewardship
Forest Values
Canada Target 1
The Federal government has made a commitment to meeting an internationally agreed target of protecting 17
of land and inland waters for the conservation of Canadarsquos biodiversity by 2020 This has become known as
Target 1 which has been adopted as a guideline or principle by every province and territory The 17 must be
reflective of all areas and ecosystem zones of Canada ie it cannot be achieved by protecting large areas of
northern Canada Currently (2019) around 118 is recognized as protected this reflects only lands held by the
Provincial or Federal governments Work in 2017 and 2018 recognized the significant contribution made by
others such as Conservation Authorities Municipalities and Land Trusts to meeting this target however even
with these additional contributions Ontario will still fall short of the 17 Target 1 The development of the
Conservation Halton Strategic Forest Management Plan is particularly timely as our Forests will help deliver on
Target 1 Our goal of Maintaining and increasing where possible Forest Cover will help deliver further lands
contributing to the delivery of Target 1 and our goals to Improve Forest Health and Species Diversity help
ensure that this contribution is managed to protect and enhance the biodiversity value of our forests over time
Ecosystem Services
Ecosystem services or ecological good and services is a term that is used to describe the wide range of economic and cultural benefits people derive from an ecosystem In forests there are several non-timber values that the ecosystem provides either directly or indirectly For example harvesting timber from an ldquoover-maturerdquo forest can sequester substantial additional carbon because (a) the forest is currently sequestering little additional carbon (the amount stored is large but annual addition from tree growth is small or even negative) (b) the timber can continue to store carbon for decades in long-term solid wood products and (c) the newly established stand can sequester large amounts of carbon through its vigorous growth The carbon released by harvesting operations substantially exceeds the additional carbon sequestered by new forest stands
87320
27
Carbon sequestration and storage Our forests are sinks into which carbon is stored As trees photosynthesize and grow they take carbon from the atmosphere into their biomass (Figure 4) This carbon is stored until such a time as the tree breaks down Atmospheric carbon is a greenhouse gas the emissions of which are subject to trading offset and tax therefore the amount of carbon that can be stored within a tree becomes a tradable and marketplace item Total tree carbon in young and old forest varies drastically with twice as much carbon sequestered by young forests than old forests
Watershed services (water regulation flood control water quality) Trees and forested lands act as filters for run off into aquifers and water courses while helping reduce sedimentation This benefits stream and lake biota Water that enters systems that supply potable water in this way require less treatment Forests that are near settled areas also contribute to watershed regulation ndash forests have a great capacity to keep water on the landscape helping it absorb and thereby helping reduce flooding and maintain the water table
Wildlife habitat and biodiversity Forests provide key habitat for many species of animals birds insects trees shrubs and plants Maintaining heterogeneous forests helps to conserve these forest species
Figure 5 Ecosystem services of a tree (photo from httpsmyarborsmithcom)
88320
28
Recreation and Health (both mental and physical) Forests are an important resource for outdoor recreation especially in densely settled areas such as Halton Region Social and health benefits of the outdoors are substantial and there is an increasing area of awareness of the role of trees Numerous studies from North America and Europe have provided evidence of the role of the natural environment in promoting human health such as decreased stress levels by being in an outdoor area for a few minutes reduced recovery times where there is a view of the outdoors and holistic benefits from walking in a forest setting Providing forests and woodlands that are accessible and provide access to a destination for people to support health and wellbeing is an important role for Conservation Halton
Ecosystem Services is a developing field of work and while a great deal of work needs to be done on how to adequately quantify values delivered by the environment there is now a consensus that our environment has a value which can be expressed in dollars and a financial expression beyond the lsquofeel goodrsquo factors A recent estimate of the value of ecosystem services for a southern Ontario rural forest is $4443hayr ($5146 in 2017) (Troy and Bagstad 2009) This would equate to an Ecosystem Value of Conservation Haltonrsquos forests of approximately $22M
Municipal Natural Assets Initiative for Grindstone Creek
Forests and natural spaces within watershed are key natural assets and play a vital role in maintaining resilience to climate changes on the landscape which in terms helps buffer the impacts of intense storms and drought especially to avoid costly storm water management repairs downstream or avoid the costs of oversizing infrastructure in urban areas and to moderatelessen the floodingerosion impacts
Municipal Natural Assets refers to the stocks of natural resources or ecosystems that contribute to the provision of one or more services required for the health well-being and long-term sustainability of a community and its residents The Municipal Natural Assets Initiative (MNAI) provides expertise to support and guide local governments in identifying valuing and accounting for natural assets in their financial planning and asset management programs and developing leading-edge sustainable and climate resilient infrastructure
The objective of the MNAI in Ontariorsquos Greenbelt Project is to ldquohelp participating local governments identify prioritize value and manage key natural assets This will result in the natural assets providing core services such as storm water management in a cost-effective and reliable manner for the long-term which can in turn save
Figure 4 Carbon sequestration in agriculture and forestry (Environmental Protection Agency 2007)
89320
29
money relative to engineered alternatives reduce risk and potential liability and result in sustainable service delivery to the community
Conservation Halton Burlington Hamilton and Royal Botanical Gardens put forward a proposal for the Grindstone Creek watershed Grindstone Creek with headwaters in Hamilton flows through urban Burlington to its mouth in Hamilton Harbour The proposal was successful and a launch workshop was held in December 2019 Over the coming year the project will comprise additional workshops technical work and collaboration across a range of organizations to assess plan for and finally implement effective strategies to understand measure value and manage natural assets in the Grindstone Creek Watershed and eventually well beyond To support effective decision-making the project will consider a variety of scenarios including climate change impacts and different management and land-use practices
Ultimately the project will
middot Enhance the services that natural assets provide to local communities and their well-being middot Manage community financial and asset risk natural assets can in some cases provide the same benefits or
services to municipalities as engineered assets at a lower cost middot Help make the watershed more resilient to climate change middot Create a replicable model and natural asset management approaches that can be applied to other
watersheds within CHrsquos jurisdiction and other regions or other watersheds across Canada middot Promote and support collaborative watershed planning and management
Timber Values
There is a direct financial value to the management of our forests through the sale of forest products (see
Silvicultural Context section for examples) Markets for local small scale timber products are growing and large
commercial markets are also drivers Whilst there is a commercial value to timber production Conservation
Halton will explore the potential sale of timber not as a driver of operations but as a secondary consideration to
planned operations
Revenues from the sale of timber are expected to offset the costs of preparing detailed prescriptions tree
marking and operations monitoring Any net revenues from timber sales can be reinvested in the management
of Conservation Haltonrsquos forests
RECOMMENDATION 5 Ensure that the lsquovaluersquo provided by the forest infrastructure on Conservation Halton lands is reflected in the emerging asset management framework
RECOMMENDATION 6 Establish a Forest Reserve Budget to enable timber revenues to be dedicated toward the continued growth and improvement in Conservation Halton Forests
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30
Forest Health and Management
Forest Health and Resilience
Forest health is more than just an
absence of pests and pathogens A
healthy forest is a resilient ecosystem
with the capacity to tolerate external
stressors and disturbances while
maintaining a balance of desirable
species of all sizes and ages The
fragmented nature of southern
Ontario forests leads to compromised
resilience of the forest ecosystem
throughout the Conservation Halton
watershed Forest resilience
however can be maintained or
improved by sustainable forest
management
Maintenance of compositional
(genetic species and community) structural and functional diversity at various scales (stand landscapes
ecosystem) maintaining or improving forest connectivity reducing competition by invasive species and
reducing the use of non-native tree species for afforestation or reforestation projects also preserves and
improves resilience (Thompson et al 2009) Objectives and activities of the Plan are to develop and
implement a program designed to maintain and enhance forest resilience which in turn will help to maintain a
healthy watershed
Conservation Haltonrsquos overall forest condition is varied throughout our land holdings depending on a variety of factors including forest type age past management activities and recreational usage However generally our forests are in a less than ideal condition and are at times in a poor condition To date varied forest health has occurred for a wide range of reasons for example
bull Forest fragmentation is impacting species regeneration there are minimal opportunities in this
fragmented landscape for genetic diversity in natural seed source there is little opportunity for the
natural replacement that occurs in forests across a broader geographical area
bull Abiotic factors such as extreme weather events shallow soils increasing temperatures precipitation
or lack thereof combined with the other factors listed here contribute to decreased forest health and
resiliency
bull Invasive plants have colonised and dominate in some areas reducing understory diversity For instance
garlic mustard is present in many areas and impacts soil pH and dog-strangling vine (DSV) has formed
understory monocultures in Waterdown Woods Grindstone Creek and Nicholson
bull Native forest pest population spikes when combined withabiotic factors such as repeated years of
drought can cause heavy mortality across entire stands
bull Invasive insects and pathogens such as emerald ash borer (EAB) gypsy moth butternut canker and
beech bark disease currently impact forest health and diversity and become a hazardous component of
the woodland
Figure 6 Climate change effects on forests
91320
31
bull Plantations that were planted for rapid growth with the intention of conversion to more natural
stands have missed necessary thinning resulting in several stagnant monoculture conifer stands in
need of management Additionally diseases such as blister rust and fomes root-rot has increased
the amount of unacceptable growing stock or caused high mortality within these stands This can
especially cause issues in red pine plantations
bull Overly intense recreation can cause species loss erosion issues and provides a conduit for a wide
spectrum of invasive species
bull Our formal Conservation Area Parks tend to manage recreational pressures well but many Natural
Areas have not had such proactive management due to unavailable resources and funds
bull Deer populations are escalating and deer browse is preventing a natural regenerative cycle in native
plant and tree species Methodologies to measure and track the impact of deer browse on
regeneration will be investigated and implemented for management consideration
bull New pressures such as forest foraging are causing the decline of desirable plant and mushroom
species
Forest Health Metrics
To monitor forest health over time and to evaluate trends we have identified a set of robust metrics for assessing forest health The first three metrics are based on standard data collected during forest resource inventories while the fourth measure is assessed by the Ecology Team prior to forest management
1 Growing stock condition Our goal based on Ontario silviculture standards is to attain 70 acceptable growing stock (AGS) stems to 30 Unacceptable Growing Stock (UGS) stems at the stand and landscape level This will allow us to achieve a high proportion of healthy high quality stems distributed evenly over various size classes at any given time The 30 UGS trees will allow the priority removal of undesirable stems such as those exhibiting major infectious diseases and trees that are impeding the development of potential AGS stems It will further allow for the retention of trees exhibiting wildlife habitat characteristics This target also aligns with our goals to improve forest health and to improve stand and species diversity
2 Presence of desirable natural regeneration in the stand prior to thinning operations This will reflect stand capacity for sustainable regeneration or will indicate follow up planting requirements Stands may be understocked (lt1000 stemsha2) adequately stocked (1000-3000 stemsha) or overstocked (gt3000stemsha) The goal is to have adequate stocking in all stands
3 Assess and manage invasive species forest pestsand disease Both the population size and invasiveness
of plant and insect species present are factors impacting forest health However some invasive species
are difficult to control or manage either because of the aggressiveness of the species andor the lack of
effective control options (see Invasive Species section in this document) The goal is to maintain or
reduce the abundance of invasive species forest pests and disease in Conservation Halton forests
Control or management approaches and priorities will species be developed based on species
abundance habitat value impact and future threat of control success and overall stand management
needs (Appendix 21)
2`1 All categories of regeneration combined (saplings advanced regeneration (gt14m tall) and early regeneration (lt14m tall))
92320
32
4 Presence or absence of habitat for species at risk (SAR) or confirmed presence of SAR The goal is to maintain all SAR habitats identified and to assist in creating more interior forest habitat Management planning will consider SAR protocols (Appendix 13 as a baseline or superseding legislation or science)
Wetland woods are lacking a forest inventory due to challenging terrain and access however had been evaluated using the Ontario wetland evaluation system These properties or stands are often enrolled in the CLTIP and do not require a forest inventory component for enrollment in the program However these stands are still subject to invasive species and pests that can severely affect the composition of the stand (eg Black Ash swamp heavily infested with EAB or a common buckthorn understory) These stands would benefit from assessment for future management opportunity and should be inventoried by Conservation Halton Forestry staff or assessed by Conservation Halton Ecology staff to determine quality
Forest Cover
Forest cover is a measure of the percentage of an area covered by forest canopy with a minimum density of 60 (eg SOLRIS Technical Team 2008) and is monitored and measured by aerial imagery Environment Canada (2013) suggests that an average of 30 - 50 forest cover is necessary to maintain species diversity on the landscape and to maintain natural functions and processes
The Halton Region and its local municipalities have determined that a realistic target across the Region is 30
forest cover reflecting the minimum federally established recommendation Currently forest cover across
Halton Region is 244 on the way to achieving this target but falling short To achieve this goal would require
approximately 9000 acres of forested land across the regional watershed However the Region is under
significant pressure as the watershed continues to see the fastest levels of urban growth in Canada and is
forecasted to continue to see growth throughout the 20-year lifespan of this plan With the continuous removal
of canopy to make way for growth even maintaining current forest cover level is an ambitious target
Increasing forest cover addresses many elements of Conservation Haltonrsquos goals and approaches By maintaining or increasing forest cover on CH lands we can increase the net benefit of ecosystem services such as carbon storage air and water quality and amenity values and species diversity Afforestation also creates opportunities for the future sale of timber and therefore financial sustainability in woodland management
Conservation Halton is strategically positioned to be the delivery agency in trying to meet this target being the largest single land owner in the Region and having the ability to work on both its own lands and with other public and private landowners through our tree planting managed forest planning and outreach programs
RECOMMENDATION 7 Monitor and improve overall forest health and wildlife habitat throughout Conservation Halton forests
RECOMMENDATION 8 Maintain current forest cover percentage through the management of the Conservation Halton forests and by working with watershed partners
93320
33
Relationships formed through this initiative of maintaining or increasing forest cover are important for Conservation Halton in terms of encouraging stewardship and engagement with private and public landowners Through programs like MFTIP CH creates management plans that help maintain and even increase tree cover on CH properties
Tree Planting Programs
Trees are planted within Conservation Haltonrsquos watershed through a variety of programs and
planting is delivered by a broad team at Conservation Halton
bull Forestry plants approximately 30000 - 50000 trees annually through the 50 Million
Tree Program and private landowner outreach services
bull Stewardship supports the planting of trees through private landowner outreach and as
part of restoration programs on public-partner owned lands
bull Communications supports the planting of trees as part of an outreach and educational
opportunity
bull 95+ of our farm leases were cancelled and those lands were afforested over the
course of 4 years (2002-2005)
bull Our Conservation Area programs support tree planting via management programming
and trail management
Each tree planting program focuses on different sets of objectives but are encompassed by a
commitment to reforestation and afforestation Through planting programs a wide range of
objectives and initiatives can be achieved Conservation Halton is committed to ensuring that the
right trees are planted in the right places to maximize future forest health and reduce management
interventions
Restoration is a valuable tool in delivering improved ecosystem services and a visual landscape
change that helps to engender support for conservation efforts Restoring brownfield sites creating
tree buffers along creek systems and restoring areas of abandoned farmlands to natural heritage
systems all help deliver improved regional ecosystem services and forest cover They are also ideal
opportunities for public engagement in so far as restoration works can be impactful on local
landscapes and provide opportunity for active engagement
Seed Stock
Conservation Halton currently plants tree material that is grown from local seed sources (Zone 34 and 37) including stock grown from seed collected by staff Staff collect local seeds because they are genetically adapted
RECOMMENDATION 9 Promote private landowner tree planting programs to engage a wider community in the importance and value of forested landscapes
94320
34
to withstand local climate conditions To mitigate the impacts of climate change on Conservation Halton forests it is suggested that we introduce a percentage of material sourced from more southerly locations which is expected to be better adapted to climate change (Ledig and Kitzmillar 1992 Boysen 2016) The amounts of each will depend on our confidence in climate change prediction over the course of the plan and stock availability from our neighbours to the south
A key factor in determining tree stock availability from more southerly seed zones is ensuring that the nurseries who grow the stock have a ready supply of genetically diverse seed and stock being purchased as it will need to meet the same level of quality we are currently receiving from local nurseries With an extensive area of forested lands and a diverse mix of species Conservation Halton will continue to play a key role in seed collection to provincially recognized standards on its own lands as part of its support of forest health across the region
Forest Establishment and Growth
Planting trees is not the end of establishing a forest but is simply the beginning Forest establishment requires
management short term tending over 1- 2- and 5-year periods initially and the need for repeated
assessment for the initial 10 years after planting If after five years the survival remains above 60 then the
forest can be left to grow After 10 years the forest is becoming established and ideally at 20 years a first
thinning (especially in the case of conifer plantations) and management operation will be required to ensure a
diverse and resilient woodland However forest growth and establishment require a sustained commitment
by Conservation Halton regardless of whether it is an owned managed or partner-managed property
RECOMMENDATION 10 Continue to support a vibrant local seed stock within southern Ontario nurseries by providing a reliable local seed source
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35
Foundations of Forest Management
Sustainable Forest Management
Sustainable forest management is the care and use of forests such that their environmental social and
economic values and benefits are maintained into the future (Natural Resources Canada 2017) Maintaining
forests sustainably requires a science-based methodology for assessment decision-making and management
planning and requires a re-evaluation of methods with scientific advancements and changing environmental
conditions Laws regulations and policies are in place to promote sustainable management practices in all
provinces (Table 1) Registered Professional Foresters and Forestry Professionals are responsible for ensuring
that these high standards are implemented in individual forests It is these approaches that define international
standards (eg Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification) for forest management
All Conservation Halton forest management activities will meet or exceed any applicable generally accepted
standards of sustainable forest management as outlined the MNRFrsquos ldquoA Silvicultural Guide to Managing
Southern Ontario Forestsrdquo Natural Resources Canadarsquos ldquoState of Canadarsquos Forestsrdquo and Forest Stewardship
Councils ldquoPrinciples and Criteriardquo for well-managed forests This form of management maintains and enhances
the long-term health of the forest ecosystem for present and future generations It is the tool with which
Conservation Halton will manage its forests to improve their overall health
To effectively address forest health challenges Conservation Halton must implement sustainable forest
management across all its forests not just planted single-species stands Sustainable forest management is the
way we can enhance our iconic escarpment woodlands to better achieve forest health and resilience including
maintaining characteristics for which lands are recognized removing diseased and hazard trees promoting
vigorous growth thinning over stocked areas and proactively addressing potential hazards
Our approach to sustainable forest management was developed as part of the Master Planning process and is reflected within Conservation Area Master Plans and will follow and adopt international standards defining lsquoSustainable Forest Managementrsquo as captured by FSC Principles and Criteria for well managed forests and other recognized standards (eg Canadian Standards Association Sustainable Forest Management standards Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI))This applies to any other similar standards that might arise through the lifespan of this Plan as the science of sustainable forestry develops
Mimic Natural Disturbance
Conservation Halton manages a relatively small extent of what would have been a region-wide forest less than 200 years ago Over time these extensive forests have become marginalised and disconnected from each other to the narrow scope of forest that we manage today within Halton When our forests were an interconnected landscape they would have been influenced by areas of loss and natural deforestation and periods of forest
RECOMMENDATION 11 Manage for long term forest health by promoting and utilizing Sustainable Forest Management principles and practices that meet or exceed current standards
96320
36
renewal These natural processes caused by disease storm and fire would have provided a complex matrix of diverse forest age stands The degree to which tree planting and subsequent management emulates the structural complexity variability and key features of natural regeneration through the forestry cycle determines the diversity and composition of the biotic community at stand and landscape levels (Franklin et al 2002 Hansen et al 1991 Spence et al 1999)
Today in a vastly reduced and fragmented forest complex our aim is to conserve and promote diverse and resilient forests on the landscape To do so we must minimise the lsquoriskrsquo of a natural loss such as fire With smaller isolated woodlands such as ours these natural processes threaten entire woodland areas or the removal of a species from a forested land holding To maintain species diversity a healthy forest and a forest that is resilient to climate change these natural processes of loss and regrowth need to be re-created through silvicultural management such as stand improvement thinning under planting with native species where necessary and controlling invasive plants and undesirable regeneration
Old Growth amp Interior Forest Habitat
Forest cover expansion is key to meeting nationally recognized standards to support healthy ecosystems however the quality of the forest is also critical
Old Growth is a term often used in forestry but has an indistinct meaning The MNRF characterizes old growth forests by high turnover of overstory trees resulting in a mosaic of gaps that encourage development of a multi-layered canopy and an abundance of snags and downed woody debris (2015b) This provides a wealth of microhabitats for insects and wildlife For a white birch forest this might be 80 or more years old whereas an old growth stand of cliff edge white cedars range in ages from 500-1000 years In Halton Region old growth would reflect forests that are 200 or more years old
Interior Forest Habitat is the inner area of a forest that is at least 100m in from the forest edge (MNR 2005) An interior forest has a unique and rich biodiversity and is home to species that avoid the more disturbed edge environments These areas have become increasingly rare as forests have become fragmented ndash smaller pockets of woodland may add up to a total that is more significant but do not contain the interior habitat relied on by many species When looking at active parks areas with trails or other recreational activities within the interior forest would disrupt these ecosystems
Growing and enhancing the amount of old growth and interior forest habitat within the watershed is a measure of the quality of the forest ecosystem being provided Conservation Halton will manage for old growth characteristics where possible However given the pressures on our woodlands and forests it is unlikely that most of our forests would be considered undisturbed
Management Challenges and Opportunities
Sustainable forest management for Conservation Halton must be based on the assumptions that the climate will change with concomittant impacts on the forest the introduction and impact of invasive species will continue and potentially increase development pressures will continue and increase and that recreational use of the forests will increase
97320
37
Structural and Biological Diversity
The architecture or pattern of a forest influences the flora and fauna that inhabits it Key structural components include stand complexity both horizontal and vertical the presence of canopy gaps or glades the quality and volume of both downed woody debris and snags and forest floor complexity At a stand level maintaining or enhancing structural diversity to mimic that of natural forests will help to maintain diversity of flora and fauna at a local level In addition managing the forested landscape to conserve or restore a mosaic of forest species sizes successional stages and regeneration cycles is necessary for enhancing environmental and economic resilience and as such is required by international certification programs such as FSC
Species diversity or biodiversity is the spectrum of flora and fauna that inhabit our forests Included in this diversity are species at risk ndash species in danger of becoming extinct because of environmental or human-induced changes that threaten either species or its habitat Ecosystems that have a wide variety of plants and animals tend to be healthier and more resilient than those with a low level of biodiversity Rapidly changing conditions caused by climate changes and human activity have the potential to reduce biodiversity and degrade the natural environment Among the threats to biodiversity are habitat degradation loss and fragmentation along with pollution introduction of invasive species and unsustainable forest practices
Conservation Halton Forests lie within the Great Lakes-St Lawrence region and Carolinian zones with most upland tolerant hardwood forests ndash a critical location for species diversity Carolinian influences and escarpment topography a climate influenced by the presence of the Great Lakes and the unique environment of the Niagara Escarpment make the forests of the region particularly ecologically valuable and diverse However this diversity and species richness is also under pressure Conservation Haltonrsquos forests are located within the fastest growing region in Canada with major population centres expected to grow significantly over the lifetime of this Plan This is likely to result in further habitat loss for many species as well as increased habitat fragmentation and greater pressures on our current forest resources With the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) on the doorstep of our forests the risk to species diversity is a key driver and theme of this Strategic Forest Management Plan
The responsibility for biodiversity driven through the Strategic Forest Management Plan ensures that Conservation Halton must manage the forest ecosystem as a unit Conservation Haltonrsquos approach to strategic forest management goes beyond the traditional perspective of tree management and shadows our strategic commitment to landscape ecosystem wide management for the overall net benefit of our biodiversity
Climate Change
Climate Change is occurring and will continue to influence our watershed into the future Temperatures are increasing - the mean yearly temperature is higher (Environment Canada 2017) and extreme weather events are becoming more common (eg 2013 ice storm increased forest fires in Ontario 2019-2020 increased flooding events in Canada 2020) Though predictions of the eventual outcomes vary the scientific community predicts that the impacts of climate change will include hotter summers more variable winter temperatures more variable precipitation and an increase in extreme weather events These factors will affect Conservation
RECOMMENDATION 12 Identify and manage appropriate stands toward lsquoold growthrsquo characteristics recognising that the human environment surrounding our forests will rarely allow for true old growth forests
98320
38
Halton forests potentially impacting ecosystem health and biodiversity This ongoing change is a key driver for forest management to improve ecosystem health and species diversity
These changes are already being experienced and are a driver for sustainable forest management in three key ways
1) Healthy forests that are resilient to the changes in weather and conditions and can recover from extreme events
2) Forests of a species mix that is adaptable to the longer-term changes in climate such as temperature and precipitation levels and that can tolerate new species of insect that will extend in range with changing climate
3) Forests that help mitigate the impacts of climate change to human society ndash that support clean water supplies and that offset heat island effects and deliver a broad range of ecosystem services that will be facing increasing pressure
Our ability to value and deliver ecosystem services through strategic forest management in response to climate change creates potential new areas for growth and management services of Conservation Halton It is vital that we manage our forests to prepare for the impacts of climate change using scientifically sound approaches (Appendix 15) This requires a proactive approach for all our existing woodlands This includes managing species aided by climate change Through a more flexible approach to woodland management managing our existing forests to ensure that should one species of tree start to be impacted by climate changes there is a diversity of appropriate species to maintain effective forest cover
Anticipated climate change pressures should be reflected in tree planting and forest cover targets We must plant a species mix that is equipped to deal with a climate not only as it is today but as science suggests it will be in 20 50 and 100 years from now This requires maintaining a highly skilled technical forestry unit that is at the forefront of forest science and able to implement programs and techniques that enable us to deliver a sustained forestry program that is both equipped to deal with the changes in climate but is also able to deliver ecosystem services that are going to change in need as we mitigate the impacts of climate change
Invasive Species
Invasive species are flora and fauna not native to the ecosystem that when introduced cause harm to the
environment Generally these are non-native species that can exploit local conditions have no local
predatorscontrol and either kill or damage (insects or pathogens) or outcompete (plants) native species
Invasive species have a range of mechanisms for altering ecosystems The presence of host-specific pests and
pathogens such as EAB beech bark disease and butternut canker that tend to kill all or most of their preferred
host can dramatically impact the structure and function of a wooded area in the short and medium term
Woodlands can take decades to recover from these devastating impacts and some may never recover
Invasive plants such as garlic mustard DSV phragmites and buckthorn are very rapid growers and quickly
dominate an area Without competition or effective predators ndash mainly insects these species exclude native
species from the areas they colonise and compromise ecosystem diversity In some cases such as DSV the
tree regeneration can be compromised Species such as garlic mustard have an allelopathic impact on forest
RECOMMENDATION 13 Build resiliency in our forests with climate change mitigation and adaptation by maintaining and enhancing forest science knowledge for forest management practices
99320
39
soils ndash garlic mustardrsquos ubiquitous nature makes this a significant threat to our forests Species such as giant
hogweed have significant human health implications having a sap which can cause severe burns when skin is
exposed to sunlight If discovered on our properties Conservation Halton will strive to manage populations
Existing and potential invasive insects plants and pathogens are potential threats to forest health and
resilience in Conservation Halton forests Conservation Halton has noted the presence of invasive plant and
insect species at times multiple invasive species in most of its forested lands (Table 2)
Table 2 Invasive plants insects and pathogens of concern in Conservation Halton forests
Plants Insects Pathogens
Dog-strangling vine Emerald ash borer Butternut canker
Phragmites Gypsy moth Beech bark disease
Common and Glossy Buckthorn Asian longhorned beetle Oak wilt
Giant hogweed Hemlock woolly adelgid Thousand canker disease
Japanese knotweed
Garlic mustard
Tartarian Honeysuckle
Oriental bittersweet
Periwinkle
Five-leafed aralia
Goutweed
Daylily
Privet
Japanese Angelica Tree
Multiflora rose
Not yet known to be present
The presence of invasive species in Conservation Halton forests creates management challenges For example we must ensure tree species diversity over the landscape to mitigate the impact of emerging and potentially catastrophic invasive pests and pathogens such as Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALHB) Planning for and managing invasive plants in the understory before and after forestry operations will be necessary to ensure tree regeneration and understory diversity Conservation Halton has Standard Operating Procedures in place to reduce the spread of invasive plants during forestry operations Invasive plant species vary in their invasiveness re-introduction potential and the success of treatment (Table 3) Some plant species such as Manitoba maple are more readily controlled whereas others such as DSV present ongoing management challenges
We have several concerns relating to invasive species and human use of woodlands Firstly one impact of invasive species is in creating hazard trees which creates risk to users of the woodland areas In many instances the driver of management of invasive species is not for forest health but instead is to address risks
100320
40
that these indirect impacts can create Secondly invasive plant spread is aided by humans animals and equipment that unwittingly carry and disperse seed
Table 3 Plant characteristics and treatment success
Species Invasiveness
Spreadre-introduction
potential Treatment success
Dog-strangling
vine Major High
Mechanical variable needs continuing efforts to maintain Chemical good control when done when plants flowering and with late season follow up treatment (Lawlor and Raynal 2002 Aitken 2008)
European buckthorn
Major High
Chemical Herbicide treatment of cut stumps is treatment of choice but variable results may depend on herbicide and timing of application subsequent saplings need to be treated (Gale 2000 Zouhar 2011) Eradication not likely but decreasing control effort over time (Zouhar 2011)
Garlic mustard
Major High
Mechanical Hand pulling effective for satellite populations eradication (vs control) sometimes achieved (Drayton and Primack 1999) Chemical information about herbicide efficacy is difficult to find Will require several consecutive years of treatment
Manitoba maple
Minor Unknown Un-described
Tarterian honeysuckles
Moderate Moderate Mechanical Pulling small plants effective with larger stems cutting followed by treating stumps and subsequent sprouts with herbicide effective (in Munger 2005)
After White et al 1993 and consistent with plant biology (reproductive success seed dispersal abilities breadth of habitat tolerance and
ability to outcompete other plants through extended growing season andor allelopathy)
Ironically invasive species are a key and valuable tool in engaging communities The scale of climate change and the challenges our global species at risk face present a daunting and at times apparently insurmountable battle to our regular visitors and local communities In contrast invasive species are a local issue that have local
impacts and can be readily placed in context by many users and communities Be it a concern of the impact of giant hogweed or the understanding of the impacts of EAB or ALHB through the publication of firewood movement bans invasive species on the doorstep can inspire communities to action They are also an ideal opportunity for engagement as many invasive species such as garlic mustard and buckthorn can be managed Management options are very resource-heavy meaning the more people involved the more effective the effort These situations give an ideal opportunity for volunteerism and active participation in local greenspaces
Species at Risk
Several species at risk reside in Conservation Halton forests (Table 4) - from iconic species such as the Jefferson salamander a species at risk that finds its only refuges in the vernal ponds and pools common through our
RECOMMENDATION 14 Establish an Invasive Species Management Program and manage invasive and non-native plant species on Conservation Halton properties where possible
101320
41
forests to plant species like American columbo which require the climate and soils here as well as open canopy areas in which to thrive to tree species such as butternut that is threatened by a fungal pathogen butternut canker These species are listed as locally regionally provincially or nationally threatened with the most significant species and habitats protected by Species at Risk legislation (Table 1) Through our forest management Conservation Halton will adopt the highest standards of approach to working with species at risk Protecting species and their habitats requires good management and through our forest health approach to sustainable forest management Conservation Halton commits to striving to protect species and their habitats Forest management plans and harvest prescriptions will address best practices for the conservation of these species Appendix 13 includes recommended forest management strategies for these species This is a living Appendix and will be updated accordingly
RECOMMENDATION 15 Adopt leading practice through sustainable forest management to conserve and improve forest habitat for the benefit of Species at Risk
102320
42
Table 4 Potential terrestrial species at risk in Conservation Halton forests
Species SARO Status Species SARO Status
Amphibians
Mammals
Jefferson Salamander Endangered
Eastern Small-footed Myotis Endangered
Birds
Little Brown Myotis Endangered
Bank Swallow Threatened Northern Myotis Endangered
Barn Swallow Threatened Tri-colored Bat Endangered
Bobolink Threatened Woodland Vole Special Concern
Canada Warbler Special Concern
Cerulean Warbler Threatened Plants
Chimney Swift Threatened American Chestnut Endangered
Common Nighthawk Special Concern American Colombo Endangered
Eastern Meadowlark Threatened
Eastern Wood-Pewee Special Concern Broad Beech Fern Special concern
Golden-winged Warbler Special Concern Butternut Endangered
Grasshopper Sparrow Special Concern Dense Blazingstar Threatened
Henslows Sparrow Endangered Eastern Flowering Dogwood Endangered
Least Bittern Threatened Harts-tongue Fern Special concern
Louisiana Waterthrush Special Concern Hoary Mountain Mint Endangered
Olive-sided Flycatcher Special Concern Red Mulberry Endangered
Peregrine Falcon Special Concern
Prothonotary Warbler Endangered Snakes and Lizards
Red-headed Woodpecker Special Concern
Short-eared Owl Special Concern Eastern Ribbonsnake Special Concern
Whip-poor-will Threatened
Wood Thrush Special Concern
Yellow-breasted Chat Endangered Turtles
Blandingrsquos Turtle Threatened
Insects
Eastern Musk Turtle Threatened
Gypsy Cuckoo Bumblebee Endangered Northern Map Turtle Special Concern
Monarch Special Concern Snapping Turtle Special Concern
Mottled Duskywing Endangered Spiny Soft-shell Turtle Threatened
Rusty-patch Bumblebee Endangered Wood Turtle Endangered
West Virginia white Special Concern
Yellow-banded Bumblebee Special Concern
Hazard Tree Management
Hazard trees in our woodlands are a concern for risk management A hazard tree is defined by Conservation
Halton policy as a tree that has a propensity to fail in all or part and strike a target a target being an asset of
the authority ndash trails building etc or an asset of a neighbour (eg house) (Appendix 16) Currently hazard
trees are managed as a stand-alone program by arborist staff Staff survey trails on a regular basis identity
103320
43
hazard trees and act as needed However hazard trees are mostly a symptom of a woodland that is in less
than optimum health A healthy forest does not support a significant hazard tree concern as these trees are
managed early and proactively as part of Sustainable Forest Management to achieve forest health Through
delivering Goal 1 Conservation Halton will in turn be limiting and reducing the challenges associated with
hazard tree management
Recreational Use
As stated under Ecosystem Services forests play a key role in human health and well-being Recreational activities can stimulate stewardship for nature and the forest create grassroots monitoring of forest health by locals recreational use can negatively impact forested areas in a number of ways including soil compaction from foot traffic widening of existing trails creation of unsanctioned trails and unauthorised use of off road vehicles trampling of plants and regenerating understory trees and the introduction and spread of invasive species (City of Toronto Parks Forestry 2013) The presence of trails can change wildlife movement patterns with resulting increased exposure of prey to predators There is a balance to be identified and maintained between recreational access and ecological protection in forest management planning With that said recreational and visitor use can also stimulate a desire for stewardship of nature and forests with the public
Development Pressure
Increased urbanization and development are causing a reduction in natural agricultural and other green space in southern Ontario Impacts will include increasing isolation of Conservation Haltonrsquos natural areas and attendant pressures on the diversity and function of flora and fauna within them worsening air pollution and the likelihood of increasing recreational pressures on our forest with increased populations
RECOMMENDATION 16 Maintain a responsive hazard tree program and reduce risk of hazard trees through proactive Sustainable Forest Management
104320
44
Forest Health Monitoring
Conservation Halton forests are under a great deal of stress from drought extreme weather events invasive plants pathogens and insects outbreaks of native and invasive insects and recreational pressures these stressors are likely to escalate in coming years Conservation Halton undertakes regular monitoring to evaluate factors that impact health and resilience of its forests Staff also attend annual forest health conferences with the MNRF and Forest Ontario to learn about up and coming forest issues and pests
Monitoring becomes most effective when it is ongoing and cyclical The establishment of the detailed Forest Inventory as Section Two of the Strategic Forest Management Plan is a key activity in our monitoring program as it establishes the shared resource that allows greater collaboration across Conservation Halton departments With a shared updatable and evolving inventory and a cyclical pattern of management activities monitoring becomes embedded within the delivery of the Strategic Forest Management Plan This in turn delivers the ability to report on Forest Health associated outcomes There are several forest health monitoring programs currently in place that will inform forest management planning
Forest health and biodiversity monitoring Conservation Halton monitors long-term tree health tree regeneration and biodiversity of shrubssmall trees and ground vegetation using the standardized EMAN plot survey protocols (Roberts-Pichette and Gillespie 1999) These protocols provide a robust methodology for monitoring and documenting forest ecosystem change over time There are 12 permanent EMAN monitoring sites nine on Conservation Halton holdings two on Town of Oakville property and one on Town of Milton land The full suite of monitoring is completed on rotation every four years with tree mortality monitored each year at all sites
Forest bird monitoring Conservation Halton conducts yearly forest bird monitoring at permanent point count stations at 10 sites Forest bird monitoring follows Canadian Wildlife Servicersquos Forest Bird Monitoring Protocol
Soil temperature Changes in soil temperature impact nutrient uptake moisture content and root growth Soil
temperature monitoring was implemented in 2019 across the forest health sites and will continue annually at all
sites
Soil chemistry The chemical structure of soil is important in holding and distributing nutrients Soil chemistry was collected at forest health sites in 2019 Chemistry analysis will be completed in future years as needed
Tree inventory and pest and pathogen monitoring Permanent Sample Plots (PSPrsquos) were originally established for the detection of gypsy moth on Conservation Halton lands in 2000 Plots were established in Conservation Halton natural areas across the watershed and strategically located in woodlands dominated or co-dominated by oak aspen birch maple beech and or white pine species The plots are monitored regularly for insect and disease signs and symptoms along with the collection of tree inventory data Monitoring and tree inventory updates will be included in Section 3
Natural Heritage Annual Monitoring As property steward for three Ontario Heritage Trust properties (Yaremko Yaremko-Ridley and the Little Tract) several tasks are required They include an annual site visit and a report on matters impacting the health of the forests on these properties including the maintenance of natural features and biodiversity and minimizing disturbance to restore any natural features suffering adverse impacts Various observations are documented such as invasive species human disturbances (eg ATV usage encroachment by neighbours horseback riding littering campfires andor erosion) wildlife and flora signage concerns hazard trees andor trail decommissioning and encroachments All observations are included in the annual monitoring report To complete the property assessment a list of required actions and recommendations are proposed and forwarded to the Ontario Heritage Trust
105320
45
Planting Quality Assessment Are undertaken on all forest planting sites during and immediately post plant A minimum 90 quality must be attained at this point
Survival Assessment Assessments are completed at 2 and 5-year intervals after planting for each property planted by Conservation Halton A minimum of 2 of the total trees representing a range of tree species site condition and planting method are selected for quality assurance monitoring Planting must attain a minimum of 60 survival anything less requires follow-up action
Emerald Ash Borer Emerald Ash borer was detected in the Halton area in 2008 Conservation Halton forestry staff conducted detection surveys using green prism traps as recommended by the CFIA to determine the insectrsquos presence in our parks and other land holdings The presence of EAB was confirmed in most if not all Conservation Areas and Natural Areas during this period In 2014 stem injections were undertaken for amenity ash trees exhibiting gt 70 live crown and in the more developed areas of the parks and along woodland trails to protect amenity trees and trees with potential seed source value During staff turn over unfortunately stem injections treatments missed two years of treatment starting in 2017 If a year of treatment is missed the effectiveness of the injection is compromised and future treatments may not be effective As such no further treatments were conducted from 2019 onward Regular monitoring of previously injected trees continues annually Hazardous ash trees in the developed areas of our parks and along trails near park assets and infrastructure are also marked for removal
Asian Long Horned Beetle Asian longhorned beetle has not yet been found in Halton Region With the assistance of CFIA we have trained forestry staff in looking for exit holes and egg laying sites on maple trees and have 2 sites within our parks where ALHB simulated signs and symptoms have been re-created Staff respond quickly to trees that exhibit any potential signs and symptoms of ALHB infestation
Hemlock woolly adelgid Hemlock woolly adelgid is not yet known to be established in Ontario though is established in neighbouring states Conservation Halton staff have participated in detection workshops and participate in a forest manager working group for HWA Conservation Halton forestry staff will work with CFIA to monitor for this pest
Current survey methods3
Current management options1
Oak wilt Oak wilt is not yet found in Ontario but is established close to the Ontario border in Michigan Conservation Halton staff have participated in an oak wilt detection workshop Conservation Halton forestry staff will work with CFIA to monitor this disease Where possible staff have adapted their pruning practices to prevent this disease from establishing As this disease approaches our watersheds more active surveying will take place
Current survey methods1
Current prevention and management options1
3 Best practices at time of publication
RECOMMENDATION 17 Continue to monitor for forest pests and diseases including invasive species and establish greater interdepartmental collaboration on monitoring programs
106320
46
Summary
Conservation Halton will work towards the three goals laid out in the Strategic Forest Management Plan by
implementing the recommendations described throughout this section (also listed on page 49)
This 20-year Plan will be reviewed each time the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Plan for Conservation Halton
properties is being renewed (2027 and 2037) and the Plan will be formally updated in 2040 By which time we
will have improved forest health conditions maximized the value of our forests and maintained and where
possible increased forest cover across our watershed
107320
47
Objectives of Forest Management
Goals and Approaches
To accomplish the Planrsquos Goals staff will implement a series of Approaches The Approaches are umbrella statements encompassing multiple
tasks The table below demonsrates how each Approach helps accomplish one or more Recommendations (summarized on page 49) Section 3
of the Plan includes an expanded version of this table with action items time frames and Key Performance Indicators
Goals Approaches Recommendations (see below table for list) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
1 Improve forest health conditions using current and future accepted methodologies and science
Sustainable Forest Management
Invasive species management
Forest Inventory
Wildlife Habitat
Monitoring
Forest Information Management System
Strat Plan Implementation Admin and Partnership
2 To maximise the value of our forests in delivering environmental goods and services social and health benefits and enhanced forest diversity
SOPs and BMPs
Wildlife Habitat
Invasive Species
Seed forecasting and collection
Sustainable Forest Management
Manage for climate change impacts
Value matrix
3 To maintain and where possible increase forest cover across our watershed through afforestation
Secure land
Maintain or enhance afforestation programs
Internal partnerships
Sustainable Forest Management
Outreach and Education
108320
48
Goals Approaches Recommendations (see below table for list) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
of Conservation Halton land acquisitions and on private lands and through land securement public education and landowner outreach programs
Summary of Plan Recommendations
1 Update Forest Inventory to inform strategic forest management
2 Continue to build support and develop relationships with partners and agencies where there is a joint benefit
3 Develop and sustain meaningful relationships with First Nation Metis and Indigenous partners that seek opportunities for increased
engagement and mutually beneficial partnerships
4 Support active land securement by building relationships with private landowners through landowner education regarding Ecogifts
program andor designate a percentage of timber revenues to the Land Securement budget
5 Ensure that the lsquovaluersquo provided by the forest infrastructure on Conservation Halton lands is reflected in the emerging asset
management framework
6 Establish a dedicated Forest Reserve Budget to enable timber revenues to be dedicated toward the continued growth and improvement
in Conservation Halton Forests
7 Monitor and improve overall forest health and wildlife habitat throughout Conservation Halton forests
8 Maintain current forest cover percentage through the management of the Conservation Halton forest and by working with watershed
partners
9 Promote private landowner tree planting programs to engage a wider community in the importance and value of forested landscapes
10 Continue to support a vibrant local seed stock within southern Ontario nurseries by providing a reliable local seed source
11 Manage for long term forest health by promoting and utilizing Sustainable Forest Management principles and practices that meet or
exceed current standards
109320
49
12 Identify and manage appropriate stands toward lsquoold growthrsquo characteristics recognising that the human environment surrounding our
forests will rarely allow for true old growth forest
13 Build resiliency in our forests with climate change mitigation and adaptation by maintaining and enhancing forest science knowledge for
forest management practices
14 Establish an Invasive Species Management Program and manage invasive and non-native plant species on Conservation Halton
properties where possible
15 Adopt leading practice through sustainable forest management to conserve and improve forest habitat for the benefit of Species at Risk
16 Maintain a responsive hazard tree program and reduce risk of hazard trees through proactive Sustainable Forest Management
17 Continue to monitor for forest pests and diseases including invasive species and establish greater interdepartmental collaboration on
monitoring programs
110320
50
Definitions
Acceptable Growing Stock (AGS) Trees suitable for retention in the stand for at least one cutting cycle (15-25 years) They are healthy robust trees They may or may not have commercial value
Approach An umbrella statement that encompasses multiple tasks and helps accomplish Recommendations The Approaches have action items time frames for completion and Key Performance Indicators
(Climate Change) Adaptation Adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects which moderates harm or exploits beneficial opportunities Various types of adaptation can be distinguished including anticipatory autonomous and planned adaptation (EPCC 2009)
Afforestation The planting of new forests on lands which historically have not contained forests (IPCC nd)
Climate Change a change in climate over time whether due to natural variability or because of human activity (EPCC 2009)
Conservation Area Lands that are of significant natural andor cultural heritage value and that are managed for
the long-term conservation of these features and are often also used for large scale flood and water control
structures These properties provide the focus of management to support public recreational use and access to
these heritage areas (Conservation Halton Land Securement Strategy 2017)
A Conservation Area is generally a larger property often with a key attraction and is characterised by a higher
level of public access and recreation These properties frequently have significant assets and resources in
support of recreational and educational use Conservation Areas are promoted as a destination for visitors they
will have signage trail maps and may have a gate house Conservation Areas will generally have a Master Plan
for land management and use of the property Through forest inventory work staff will highlight management
needs and special sensitivities on these properties
Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program (CLTIP) A voluntary tax incentive program where landowners agree
to protect provincially important natural heritage features that have been evaluated and identified by MNRF
These lands are assessed at the CL property class and are tax exempt (MNRF 2010)
Conservation Reserve Represent the least publicly accessible and include some of the most significant natural
heritage communities in the Authorities ownership Public access is not encouraged or supported on these
lands (Conservation Halton Land Securement Strategy 2017)
A Conservation Reserve is generally a smaller and more isolated property These lands may be heavily protected
and regulated by existing policy frameworks and may provide extremely challenging access These properties
will generally not have Master Plans in place but will be included within forest inventory work which will
highlight management needs and special sensitivities of the property
Ecosystem Services The benefits provided to people by ecosystems They include provision of clean water fuel
and wood the regulation of climate flooding and water purification the support of nutrient cycling soil
formation and primary production and have aesthetic spiritual educational and recreation value (Millennium
Ecosystem Assessment 2005)
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51
ForestWoodland An ecosystem characterized by a more or less dense and extensive tree cover often consisting of stands varying in characteristics such as species composition structure age class and associated processes and commonly including meadows streams fish and wildlife (Helms 1998)
Forest Ecosystem resilience The capacity of an ecosystem to return to the pre-condition state following a perturbation including maintaining its essential characteristics taxonomic composition structures ecosystem functions and process rates (Thompson et al 2009 after Holling 1973)
Forest Fragmentation The conversion of formerly continuous forest into patches of forest separated by non-forested lands (roads agricultural land urban areas or other development) This impairs the forestrsquos structure and function Temperature moisture and light regimes are altered which impacts habitat for flora and fauna and effects processes such as water and air purification (Rusak nd)
Forest Health The perceived condition of a forest derived from concerns about such factors as its age structure composition vigour presence of unusual levels of insects disease invasive species and resilience to disturbance (Helms 1998)
Forest Management Application of business methods and technical forest principles to the management of forest property (MNR 2000)
Forest Management Activities These include but are not limited to physical works to manage a forest from high pruning limbing and other tree health activities to thinning (selective removal of trees to promote growth in remaining trees) felling and extraction of timber felling and removal of hazard trees marking of trees for removal by certified forestry professionals where a prescription for works has been approved Management will take place in accordance with good forestry practices
Forest Management Unit (Type) The term used to group stands of similar character in composition and development to differentiate them from other groups of stands (MNR 2000)
Goal A primary target set out with measurable success based on completed Recommendations
Good Forestry Practices Silvicultural activities conducted in ways that enable the stand to maintain ecological processes and wildlife habitats as well as grow healthy plants Silvicultural activities should lead to ecological sustainability of managed stands by minimizing harm to the forest values and by protecting significant features that help to maintain the integrity and long-term health of the stand (MNR 2000)
High Conservation Value Forest High value conservation forests have biological ecological social or cultural value(s) of outstanding significance or critical importance and would include species diversity landscape level ecosystems and mosaics ecosystems and habitats ecosystem services community needs and cultural valuesrdquo (Forest Stewardship Council 2017)
Interior Forest Habitat within the forest or woodland 100m away from the forest edges and open habitat and not influenced by either one Interior forest is reminiscent of contiguous historic forests Larger woodlands and those with shorter perimeters tend to have greater amounts of forest interior (vs narrow forests) (MNR 2000) Activities such as motorized trail bikes all terrain vehicles horses and mountain bikes that heavily compact the soil should be isolated or excluded These activities can also disrupt the soil enough that exotic invaders can establish more easily MNRF ldquoA Land Managerrsquos Guide to Conserving Habitat for Forest birds in Southern Ontariordquo
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52
Key Performance Indicator A measure of success for the action item associated with an Approach
Managed Forest Plan A written plan for the organized handling and operation of a forest property It includes data and prescribed measures designed to provide optimum use of forest resources according to predetermined objectives (MNR 2000)
Managed Forest Tax Incentive Plan (MFTIP) A tax saving program offered by MNRF to landowners who apply qualify and have Managed Forest eligible lands designed to increase landowner awareness about forest stewardship and encourage responsible management of forests (MNRF 2017)
(Climate Change) Mitigation an intervention to reduce the anthropogenic forcing of the climate system it includes strategies to reduce greenhouse gas sources and emissions and enhancing greenhouse gas sinks (EPCC 2009)
Natural Area Lands that have been acquired through a variety of mechanisms and primarily reflect the
conservation and natural resource management roles of Conservation Halton Management of these lands is
focussed on resource and conservation management and limited public access is supported (Conservation
Halton Land Securement Strategy 2017)
A Natural Area is typically a smaller property characterised by a significantly lower level of public recreational
use than a Conservation Area and minimal if any infrastructure to support that use These areas may have
limited signage and may have access trails Public activities will be limited to passive recreational activities
Natural Areas will generally not have Master Plans in place but will be included within forest inventory which will
highlight management needs and special sensitivities of the property
Natural Disturbance The historic patterns (frequency and extent) of natural processes such as fire insect
outbreaks and wind events that affect the ecosystems Natural disturbance regimes can differ between forest
and site types
Natural Heritage System a system of natural heritage features and areas linked by natural corridors which are necessary to maintain biological and geological diversity natural functions viable populations of indigenous species and ecosystems These systems can include lands that have been restored and areas with the potential to be restored to a natural state (Provincial Policy Statement 2005) Old Growth Forest A relatively old forest that show little or no evidence of human disturbance This term is
misapplied by many to describe any forest that appears to be old Individual trees in this type of forest are
usually over 200 years old and there are large standing and fallen dead trees throughout the stand (A
Silvicultural Guide to Managing Southern Ontario Forests 2000)
Recommendation An actionable item that will help Conservation Halton work towards accomplishing the three Goals of this Plan Recommendations serve as the backbone of the Plan
Sustainable Forest Management Sustainable forest management is the care and use of forests such that their
environmental social and economic values and benefits are maintained into the future (Natural Resources
Canada 2017)
Unacceptable Growing Stock These trees have a high risk of dying and are expected to decline over the next
cutting cycle They include trees that are diseased of poor form andor low quality UGS trees are not always
113320
53
marked for removal UGS trees may contain important wildlife habitat features (cavities stick nests) and may
also have potential to produce seed
Woodland Treed areas that provide environmental and economic benefits to both the private landowner and the general public such as erosion prevention hydrological and nutrient cycling provision of clean air and the long-term storage of carbon provision of wildlife habitat outdoor recreational opportunities and the sustainable harvest of a wide range of woodland products (MNR 2005)
114320
54
References
Aitken R 2008 The biology distribution and control of the dog-strangling vine (Vincetoxicum rossicum) in
southern Ontario Trent University Unpublished report
Boyson B 2016 Gene Conservation to Sustain Our Forests to Sustain Ourselves In The Professional Forester Number 223 httpssecureopfacasitesdefaultfilesmembersnewsletterIssue2022320sept202016pdf
City of Toronto Parks Forestry 2013 Sustaining amp expanding the urban forest Torontorsquos strategic forest management plan [Available at httpwww1torontocaCity20Of20TorontoParks20Forestry20amp20RecreationUrban20ForestryFilespdfBbackgroundfile-55258pdf ] Accessed October 2 2015
Colombo SJ Cherry ML Greifenhagen S McAlpine RS Papadopol CS Parker WC Scarr T Ter-Mikaelin MT 1998 The impacts of climate change on Ontariorsquos forests Forest Research Information Paper No 143
Drayton B and Primack RB 1999 Experimental extinction of garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) populations implications for weed science and conservation biology Biological Invasions 1 159-167
Environment Canada nd Historical Data [Available at httpclimateweathergccahistorical_datasearch_historic_data_ehtml ] Accessed 5 April 2017
Environment Canada 2013 How Much Habitat is Enough Third Edition Environment Canada Toronto Ontario
Expert Panel on Climate Change 2009 Adapting to climate change in Ontario Report of the expert panel on climate change adaptation to the Ministry of the Environment Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario 88p
Forest Stewardship Council Principles and Criteria httpsicfscorgenwhat-is-fsc-certificationprinciples-criteriafscs-10-principles Accessed 7 April 2017
Franklin JF Spies TA Pelt RV Carey AB Thornburgh DA Berg DR Lindenmayer DB Harmon ME Keeton WS Shaw DC Bible K Chen J 2002 Disturbances and structural development of natural forest ecosystems with silvicultural implications using Douglas-fir forests as an example Forest Ecology and Management 155 399-42
Gale SW 2000 Control of the invasive exotic Rhamnus cathartica in temperate North American Forests
Restoration and Reclamation Review 6
Hansen AJ Spies TA Swanson FJ and JL Ohman 1991 Conserving biodiversity in managed forests lessons from natural forests BioScience 41382-392
Helms JA ed 1998 A dictionary of forestry Society of American Foresters 210pp
International Panel on Climate Change nd Glossary of Terms used in the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report [Available at httpwwwipccchpdfglossarytar-ipcc-terms-enpdf ] Accessed 13 March 2018
Jacquart E 2009 Where do I start Prioritizing Invasive Plant Control Indiana Native Plant and Wildflower Society Journal [Available at httpwwwinpawsorgbiodiversityprioritizing-invasive-plant-removal ] Accessed 13 March 2018
Lawlor FM and Raynal DJ 2002 Response of swallow-wort to herbicides Weed Science 50179-185
Ledig F T and J H Kitzmiller 1992 Genetic strategies for reforestation in the face of global climate change Forest Ecology and Management 50 153-169
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Millennium Ecosystem Assessment 2005 Ecosystems and human well-being synthesis Island Press Washington DC 137p
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry 2017 Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program [Available at httpswwwontariocapagemanaged-forest-tax-incentive-program ] Accessed 6 April 2017
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry 2015a Forest management guide to silviculture in the Great Lakes-St Lawrence and boreal forests of Ontario
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry 2015b Significant wildlife habitat criteria schedules for ecoregion 7E Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Regional Operations Division 40p
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry 2010 Conservation land tax incentive program Community conservation lands guide 19p
Ministry of Natural Resources 2005 Natural heritage reference manual for natural heritage policies of the provincial policy statement 2005 Second edition
Ministry of Natural Resources 2000 A Silvicultural Guide to managing Southern Ontario Forests MNR Queens Printer Toronto 648p
Munger Gregory T 2001 Alliaria petiolata In Fire Effects Information System [Online] US Department of
Agriculture Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station Fire Sciences Laboratory (Producer) [Available
httpwwwfsfedusdatabasefeis]
Natural Resources Canada 2017 The state of Canadarsquos forests annual report [Available at httpwwwnrcangccaforestsreport16496 ] Accessed 7 April 2017
Ontario Invasive Plant Council nd A landownerrsquos guide to managing and controlling invasive plants in Ontario
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing 2005 Provincial Policy Statement [Available at httpwwwmahgovoncaPage1485aspx ] Roberts-Pichette P and L Gillespie 1999 Terrestrial vegetation biodiversity monitoring protocols Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Network (EMAN) EMAN Occasional Paper Series Report No 9
Rusak H ND Forest Fragmentation Federation of Ontario Naturalists
SOLRIS Technical Team 2008 Southern Ontario Land Resource Information System (SOLRIS) Phase 2 ndash Data specifications Version 12 Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
Spence JR Buddle CM Gandhi KJK Langor DW Volney WJA Hammond HEJ and GR Pohl 1999 Invertebrate biodiversity forestry and emulation of natural disturbance a down-to-earth perspective US Forest Service General Technical Report
Thompson I Mackey B McNulty S and A Mosseler 2009 Forest resilience biodiversity and climate change A synthesis of the biodiversityresiliencestability relationship in forest ecosystems Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity CBD Technical Series No 43
Troy A and K Bagstad 2009 Estimating ecosystem services in southern Ontario Report to Ministry of Natural Resources Ontario
White DJ Haber E and Keddy C 1993 Invasive plants of natural habitats in Canada and integrated review of
wetland and upland species and legislation regarding their control Environment Canada Canadian Wildlife
Service [Available at httpwwwcollectionscanadagccaeppp-archive100200301environment_cancws-
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56
scfoccasional_paper-en110htmlpublicationsAbstractTemplatecfmlang=eampid=337 ]
Zouhar K 2011 Rhamnus cathartica R davurica In Fire Effects Information System [Online] US Department
of Agriculture Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station Fire Sciences Laboratory (Producer) [Available
at httpwwwfsfedusdatabasefeis ] Accessed 2013 September 12
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57
Appendices
118320
58
Appendix 11 Forest Management and Sustainability Policy
119320
59
Appendix 12 Conservation Halton Properties by Land Class
Conservation Reserve Conservation Areas
R1 Lake Medad 6657ac C1 Hilton Falls 161977ac
R2 Medad Valley 2373ac C2 Kelso 113580ac
R3 Plaikner 5526ac C3 Rattlesnake Point 73065ac
R4 Knight 4589ac C4 Crawford Lake 87344ac
R5 Albert 7666ac C5 Mountsberg 137602ac
R6 Guelph Junction 6969ac C6 Mount Nemo 50453ac
R7 Fuciarelli 14878ac C7 Robert Edmondson 7653ac
R8 Kassam 4108ac C8 Carlisle 6839ac
R9 Croft 8482ac C9 Campbellville 318ac
R10 Paiement 2851ac C10 Glenorchy 9998ac
R11 Middletown 525ac C11 Kerncliff 9222ac
R12 Andrusyshyn 1856ac C12 Waterdown Woods 29689ac
Total area 66480ac C13 Clappison Woods 21133ac
C14 Stewart 5158ac
Natural Areas C15 Burlington Beach 2178ac
N1 Shanahan 16930ac Total area 806191ac
N2 Kilbride 31138ac
N3 Esquesing 3764ac Other
N4 Moffat-Badenoch Swamp 39659ac O1 Administration 789ac
N5 Sixteen Valley 7548ac O2 Morrison Wedgewood Channel 5472ac
N6 Tirion 4977ac O3 Hagar Rambo Channel 2659ac
N7 Escarpment 6914ac O4 Scotch Block Channel 8211ac
N8 Ontario Heritage Trust 21622ac O5 Milton Channel 1186ac
N9 Kiwanis 10186ac O6 Cockshutt 106ac
N10 Bronte Gorge 7550ac O7 Morriston 186ac
N11 Grindstone Creek 15765ac O8 Forster and Burt 1319ac
N12 Nelson Escarpment Woods 1317ac O9 Queen Elizabeth way 1011ac
N13 Pleasantview 14120ac Total area 20939ac
N14 Speyside Nature Reserve 6466ac
N15 Wildflower Woods 2399ac
Total area 190355ac
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60
Appendix 13 Invasive Species Evaluation and Prioritization
After Jacquart (2009) and OIPC (nd)
To facilitate decision making about prioritizing invasive plant control the following questions are considered for
each plant species in each land holding The number of points are totalled for each species at each site
speciessites with the lower scores are higher priority for treatment
Abundance
Points How much is there
1 Small amount spreading
2 Moderate amount
3 Extensive
Habitat value
Points How valuable is the habitat
1 Many rare plants or community types nearby
2 A few rare plants or community types nearby
3 Disturbed areas or edges low value habitat
Impact
Points What is the impact
1 Plant is aggressive and changes the area few other species survive
2 Invades undisturbed areas and outcompetes native species
3 Does not out-compete native species but native species do not regenerate
4 Only invades disturbed areas
Control success
Points How likely is control
1 Easily controllable one treatment
2 Multiple treatments required but treatment successful and native species will regenerate
3 Multiple treatments required will need restoration
4 No effective treatment known
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61
Appendix 14 Management Recommendations for Species at Risk
Species at risk statuses change frequently and will be revisited regularly Management recommendations will
also be updated periodically to reflect the most current science and government regulationspermitting policies
Bats eastern small-footed myotis little brown myotis northern myotis (aka northern long-eared bat) tri-coloured bat
Status Endangered provincially (all four species) northern myotis and little brown myotis also endangered
federally
Range Eastern small-footed bat (ESFB) In Ontario south of Georgian Bay to Lake Erie east to Pembroke also Bruce Peninsula Espanola and Lake Superior PP Little brown myotis (LBM) Widespread in Ontario as far north as Moose Factory and Favourable Lake Across Canada (from boreal forest south of the tree line and south to US) except Nunavut and most of the US Northern myotis (NM) Forested areas in southern Ontario to north shore Lake Superior Occasionally as far north as Moosonee and west to Lake Nipigon Throughout Canada except Nunavut - boreal forest south of the tree line and south through forested areas Tri-coloured bat (TCB) Southern Ontario north to Espanola also eastern North America to Central America Habitat Each species of bat has 1) overwintering habitat (hibernacula) used for hibernation 2) summering habitat (maternity roosts roosts for males and foraging habitat) and 3) swarming habitat used late summer and early fall for mating (swarming sites are often at the entrance to the hibernaculum) Hibernacula for all four bat species include caves abandoned mines wells tunnels or underground openings Where distributions overlap different species may overwinter in the same hibernaculum Species typically show fidelity to overwinter sites returning to them year after year Summer roost selection is influenced by characteristics of the site and of the bat so it is difficult to define LBM NM and TCB all preferentially roost in older forest stands which may be due to snag availability and closed canopy sites for foraging Males of the three species roost in a variety of structures including rock crevices raised bark foliage and tree cavities Male LBM and NM often roost in tall snags with large diameters in early to mid-stage of decay in or near small open patches in mature or over-mature forest Bat species may switch summer roosting sites regularly but typically use a network of roosts within an area ESFB summer roosts are in and under rocks rock outcrops in buildings under bridges in caves mines or hollow trees Overwinters in caves and abandoned mines this species tolerates cold temperatures better than other bat species so is often near the cavemine entrance where temperature and humidity are lower Forested areas with abundant rock outcrops are good foraging habitat for ESFB This species is more secretive than other bat species so less is known about it LBM summer roosts are in trees (cavities foliage tree bark) buildings and other anthropogenic structures (eg bat boxes) and crevices in cliffs Maternity roosts tend to be in large-diameter trees females show roosting fidelity returning to same sites which may be used for 10 years or more Overwinters in caves or abandoned
122320
62
mines and unlike other species can overwinter in buildings at least in western Canada where winter temps are relatively high Foraging bats are associated with open habitats (ponds roads open canopy forests) and are also found within the forest NM maternity roosts are associated with forest cover streams and several tree characteristics Females prefer tall large diameter trees in early to mid-stages of decay but switch roosts every few days staying within an area They favor shade-tolerant deciduous stands Males roost under raised bark or in tree cavities (mid-decay stage) These bats often forage over water also along and within forests They hibernate in caves and abandoned mines TCB are found in a range of forest habitats Day roosts and maternity colonies are in older forest or sometimes barns or other structures They seem to show fidelity to roosting area Foraging is in riparian areas and over water This species is less known Threats LBM NM and TCB were emergency listed as Endangered in 2014 because of sudden and rapid declines in population due to white-nose syndrome (WNS) these three species are thought to be the most vulnerable to WNS ESFB may be less susceptible to WNS than other species because they tend to hibernate in cooler drier part of the cave where fungus may be less virulent Regardless WNS is the greatest threat to all four bat species described here Other threats include destruction or degradation of hibernacula or roosts including tree removal and forestry operations Destruction degradation or conversion of foraging habitats is also a concern Wind turbines are also a threat ndash the degree of issue not known and likely varies between bat species Recommendations
Any site where any of the four bat species has been observed hibernating or where swarming has been
observed at least once since 1995 is considered critical habitat Critical habitat for other functions is not yet
identified Consult with MNRF re locations of known hibernacula A 200m buffer around known hibernacula is
recommended (required in MB and NF) Cave openings should never be blocked nor should caves be entered
Manage forests to maintain snags whenever possible and retain healthy trees to provide future snags If
possible retain trees in riparian zones to maintain quality of feeding zones
References
Butchkoski E 2014 Eastern Small-footed Bat (Myotis leibii) Pennsylvania Game Commission [Accessed 4 Jan
2017] httpwwwpgcpagovWildlifeEndangeredandThreatenedPagesEasternSmall-FootedBataspx
Environment Canada 2015 Recovery strategy for Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) Northern Myotis
(Myotis septentrionalis) and Tri-coloured Bat (Perimyotis subflavus) in Canada [Proposed] Species at Risk Act
Recovery Strategy series Environment Canada Ottawa httpswwwregistrelep-
sararegistrygccavirtual_sarafilesplansrs_LittleBrownMyotisNorthernMyotisTricoloredBat_e_proposedpdf
Forestry Branch Manitoba Conservation 2010 Forest management guidelines for terrestrial buffers Manitoba
Conservation Forest Practices Guidebook
httpwwwgovmbcasdforestrypdfpracticesterrestrial_final_2010pdf
Gerson H 1984 Habitat management guidelines for bats of Ontario Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
MNR 51602 httpsdr6j45jk9xcmkcloudfrontnetdocuments2790guide-batspdf
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63
Government of Ontario 2016 Mammals at risk in Ontario [Accessed 3 Jan 2017]
httpswwwontariocaenvironment-and-energyspecies-risk-typename=Mammals
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64
Butternut
Status Endangered provincially and nationally
Range Central and eastern North America in Canada found in Ontario Quebec and New Brunswick In Ontario
butternut is found in the southwest north to the Bruce Peninsula and south of the Canadian Shield (OMNR
2014)
Habitat Rich moist sites in tolerant hardwood forest in the southern parts of the Great Lakes-St Lawrence
forest Shade intolerant ndash often found in gaps and on forest edges Often found along streams Also it may be
found on well-drained gravel sites and rarely on dry rocky soil (OMNR 2014)
Threats Threatened by an introduced pathogen ndash the butternut canker (Ophiognomonia clavigigenti-
juglandacearum) that is ubiquitous across the range of butternut (Poisson and Ursic 2013) Although no trees
are known to have resistance to the pathogen indiscriminate harvesting of butternut could remove genetic
material which has not yet developed resistance or which has resistance that is not yet detected (in Poisson and
Ursic 2013)
Recommendations Maintain healthy butternut individuals and remove non-retainable ones Healthy butternut
are those that have more than 70 live crown and less than 20 of the combined circumference (Diameter at
Breast Height (DBH)) of the bole and root flare affected by cankers or that have 50 or more live crown and no
cankers visible on the bole or root flare (OMNR 2010) Develop suitable stand conditions for butternut
butternut shows more vigour and regeneration in open conditions Selection harvest parameters developed for
butternut are in pockets ge05 ha within stands with 5-15 healthy butternut group selection openings of 30-70m
diameter should be created retain healthy butternut seed trees along openings within openings fell all stems
except retainable butternut and employ competition control if necessary For shelterwood systems in pockets
ge05 ha within stands with gt5 healthy butternut use a uniform shelterwood system with full crown spacing
retain 30-60 treesha at 12-20 m spacing fell non-crop trees and use control competition if necessary (OMNR
2010 in Poisson and 2013) Forest management plans should identify opportunities for butternut regeneration
(OMNR 2010) Most butternut seedlings establish within 25-50m of parent tree therefore it is recommended to
maintain a protected area within a distance of 25m from the base of an established healthy tree where the
species has the highest likelihood of regenerating (Poisson and Ursic 2013)
References
Poisson G and M Ursic 2013 Recovery Strategy for the Butternut (Juglans cinerea) in Ontario Ontario
Recovery Strategy Series Prepared for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Peterborough Ontario
OMNR 2014 Butternut
httpwwwmnrgovoncaenBusinessSpecies2ColumnSubPageMNR_SAR_BUTTERNUT_ENhtml [Accessed
June 2014]
OMNR 2010 Forest Management Guide for Conserving Biodiversity at the Stand and Site Scales Toronto
Queenrsquos Printer for Ontario
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65
Jefferson salamander
Status Endangered provincially and nationally
Range Jefferson salamander is found in southern Ontario mainly along the Niagara escarpment as well as the
northeastern US (OMNR 2014) Known populations in Ontario as of 2010 occur in Haldimand Norfolk Wellington
Brant Grey and Elgin counties forested habitat along the Niagara Escarpment from Hamilton to Orangeville
isolated locations in Halton Peel Waterloo York and Niagara regions and Dufferin County east of the Niagara
Escarpment (JSRT 2010)
Habitat Deciduous or mixed forest Require microhabitat such as moist loose soil under logs or in leaf litter Uses
wetland ponds to breed - these are usually vernal pools (without predators) fed by groundwater snowmelt or
surface water but occasionally permanent or semi-permanent water (JSRT 2010) Ponds are usually in or adjacent
to a woodland The salamander needs plant materials such as shrubs twigs branches or submerged or emergent
vegetation to attach their egg masses to They have high breeding pond fidelity The habitat used by the
salamanders extends to 157m from the edge of their breeding ponds (2003)
Threats Habitat loss and degradation of woodlands and breeding ponds due to urban development draining of
wetland and resource extraction (OMNR 2014) Widespread aggregate extraction in the Niagara Escarpment is an
especially significant threat (JSRT 2010) There are small populations of salamanders in isolated pockets therefore
there is a risk of local extinction due to floods fire or other catastrophic events Other mortality factors include
road mortality or an altered water table Anything that alters the water table or disrupts groundwater flow has the
potential to alter wetlands and therefore breeding habitat as well Removal of forest cover can lead to premature
drying of vernal ponds Forestry activities that result in the filling of vernal pools alternation of vernal pool
hydrology sedimentation removal or alteration of associated upland habitat (removal of canopy cover stumps
logs and leaf litter and alternation of nutrient input by leaves) pollution and fragmentation or isolation of vernal
pools from the terrestrial habitat (JSRT 2010)
Recommendations Protect vernal pools and breeding ponds from draining filling run off and development
Maintain forested land around known breeding ponds Use a no cut buffer of 30 m around vernal pools or pool
depressions Up to 140m from the pool (or 180m if possible) retain 70 or more of the area with 75 or more
canopy cover or equivalent basal area of trees 9m or more in height distributed proportionally around the pond
(NHESP 2007) If vernal pools are clustered patch cuts or landings should not be located between the pools Vernal
pools are difficult to detect in the dry season so should be carefully surveyed and marked prior to forestry
operations Where possible leave 2 snags or olderdying trees per acre to provide woody debris Leave sections of
downed wood of 30cm diameter and larger (40cm or more long) for microhabitat Maintain existing woody debris
Winter harvest is best to minimize forest floor disturbance (NHESP 2007)
References
COSEWIC 2010 COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Jefferson salamander Ambystoma jeffersonianum in
Canada Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada Ottawa
Faccio SD 2003 Post-breeding emigration and habitat use by Jefferson and spotted salamanders in Vermont
Journal of Herpetology 37 479-489
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66
Jefferson Salamander Recovery Team 2010 Recovery strategy for the Jefferson Salamander (Ambystoma
jeffersonianum) in Ontario Ontario Recovery Strategy Series Prepared for the Ontario Ministry of Natural
Resources Peterborough Ontario
Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program 2007 Massachusetts Forestry Conservation Management
Practices for MESA-listed mole salamanders Version 20071 Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Westborough Massachusetts USA
OMNR 2014 Jefferson salamander
httpwwwmnrgovoncaenBusinessSpecies2ColumnSubPageMNR_SAR_JFFRSN_SLMNDR_ENhtml
[Accessed May 2014]
127320
67
Snapping turtle
Status Special concern provincially and nationally
Range In Canada from Saskatchewan to Nova Scotia in Ontario primarily in the south Range extends to
Ecuador (OMNR 2014)
Habitat Prefers shallow water (they hide in mud and leaf litter) Females travel overland in early and mid
summer to find nesting sites in gravelly or sandy areas along streams May use man-made structures including
roads dams and aggregate pits (OMNR 2014)
Threats Takes 15-20 years to reach sexual maturity and low survival rate of immature turtles (lt01) Egg
predation by raccoons and skunks Adult mortality due to motor vehicles as turtles crossroads to look for mates
food and nesting sites and due to and legal hunting (OMNR 2014 Anon 2012)
Recommendations Recommend winter operations and physically avoid running over them
References
Anon 2012 The road to extinction a call to end the snapping turtle hunt Ontario Nature David Suzuki
Foundation and Kawartha Turtle Trauma Centre
OMNR 2014 Snapping turtle
httpwwwmnrgovoncaenBusinessSpecies2ColumnSubPageMNR_SAR_SNPPNG_TRTL_ENhtml
[Accessed May 2014]
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68
West Virginia white
Status Special concern provincially
Range Ontario and Quebec south through New England and the Appalachians to Georgia Common in parts of its range but rare in Ontario In Ontario central and southern Ontario with some sites north to Manitoulin and St Joseph island More common in the western Lake Ontario region Habitat Interiors of mesic deciduous and mixed forest Confined to mature forest - avoids forest edges unshaded stream crossings utility corridors and open fields though it can cross small roads that are under canopy Sites typically have closed canopy with minimal shrub but abundant herb layer ndash ie open understory The butterfly is oligophagus and only feeds on a small number of closely related plants Toothworts (mustard family) preferably two-leaved toothwort are the larval food source These plants are usually abundant where the butterfly occurs Males are often associated with forest streams and damp areas females may require sunny glades Threats This species has likely always been rare in Ontario Habitat fragmentation is a problem as this butterfly
primarily flies within wooded areas and prefers not to cross open fields or another unshaded habitat Garlic
mustard outcompetes the whitersquos host plant and may also act as an egg sink as female butterflies sometimes
mistakenly lay eggs on garlic mustard garlic mustard is toxic to the larvae in most of its range Increase in wind
and temperature in the understory dry the soil and may impact toothworts Forestry activity disrupting the
forest floor may impact host plants directly or indirectly Silvicultural activities such as clear cutting replanting to
conifer use of biocontrol agents such as Btk and Maimaga for insect control and the development of roads
park or other human-use areas all have negative effects on the butterfly
Recommendations Although its presence is not guaranteed on all sites with two-leaved toothwort the
likelihood of occurrence increases in large tracts of unbroken forest where many patches of the host plant exist
Manage garlic mustard to conserve toothworts Manage the stand to maintain closed canopy condition ndash this
includes managing for pests and pathogens however Btk use for insects such as gypsy moth could affect the
white depending on timing of application Maintain canopy cover over access roads and trails
References
Burke P 2013 Management plan for the West Virginia white (Pieris virginiensis) in Ontario Ontario
Management Plan Series Prepared for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Peterborough ON
httpfilesontariocaenvironment-and-energyspecies-at-riskmnr_sar_mtpln_wvgnwht_enpdf
USDA Forest Service Eastern Region 2005 Conservation assessment for the West Virginia white (Pieris
virginiensis Edwards) httpswwwfsusdagovInternetFSE_DOCUMENTSfsm91_054237pdf
West Virginia White [Accessed Dec 2016] httpswwwontariocapagewest-virginia-white
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69
Appendix 15 Forest Management Approaches for Climate Change
Possible forest management approaches to mitigate the impacts on Ontariorsquos forests (From Columbo et al 1998)
Activity Purpose
Shorten rotation lengths where appropriate
Harvest chronically stressed stands of low vigour and slower growth rates that are susceptible to insects and disease
Thinning Reduce insect and disease susceptibility and increase vigour through thinning when stands are under prolonged and severe moisture stress
Plant drought-adapted species and genotypes
Regenerate drought prone habitats with deeply rooted species select and breed drought tolerant genotypes
Increase use of alternatives to clearcutting (eg shelterwood selection systems)
Protect regeneration from future warmer drier seedling environments Increase the amount of carbon stored by increasing the period a site is occupied by trees decreasing disturbance to forest floor and increasing the rate of reforestation where advance reproduction is used
Increase insect pest management preparedness
Greater incidence of extreme events and drought are expected to increase tree stress and susceptibility to insect pests
Plant climate-adapted species
Introduce southern species beyond recent northern range limits when temperature averages and extremes have warmed sufficiently
Maintain genetic and biological diversity
Protecting diversity increases the likelihood that there will be individuals species and ecosystems that are adapted to future climate conditions requires strategies for genetic conservation and ecosystem protection
Rapidly re-establish trees in harvested forests
Increasing the amount of carbon stored by increasing the period a site is occupied by trees
Use climate-based seed zones
Periodic updating of seed zones based on temperature averages and extremes
Increase forest fire suppression
Longer growing seasons warmer temperatures and reduced precipitation may already have increased forest fire activity Protection of valued forests requires a compensatory increase in forest fire suppression
Afforest non-forested land Increasing the amount of carbon stored by increasing the area covered by forests
Preferentially regenerate trees for use in long-lived wood products
Increasing the amount of carbon sequestered by increasing the length of time it is sequestered (eg in order of increasing sequestration time non-recyclable paper recyclable paper books lumber and construction board)
Increase use of advance reproduction
Advance reproduction requires less energy input compared to artificial regeneration and increases the rate of reforestation need to develop and use modified harvesting techniques to protect reproduction and residual overstory when logging
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Appendix 16 Managing Hazard Trees Policy
(Policy as of 2012)
Background
Extensive portions of Conservation Halton properties contain trees as natural features Trees can be found near
structures or in areas where the public and staff are invited to be present and in some cases may present a
potential hazard It is generally accepted that trees have a finite lifespan and even a tree in excellent condition
has the potential to fail However there are certain defects that can occur in any age of a tree that can be
detected that may increase the potential for failure Recognizing potentially hazardous trees and taking proper
corrective actions can protect property and save lives
Policy Statement
CONSERVATION HALTON WILL TAKE REASONABLE STEPS TO MAINTAIN THE SAFETY OF ITS LANDS FOR THE PUBLIC AND ITS STAFF FROM TREES THAT ARE IDENTIFIED AS HAZARDS
Conservation Halton reserves the right to prohibit access to or close an area (which may include but not be
limited to buildings designated parking areas viewpoints campsites picnic sites and trails) due to unsafe
conditions if it is deemed necessary to do so Such areas will be re-opened once the hazard has been effectively
managed
The purpose of this Policy is to define a Hazard Tree Program and sets the responsibilities of the designated
departments involved in managing hazard trees The need to develop such a program stems from the Duty of
Care and responsibility that Conservation Halton has to its visitors and staff
Therefore this Policy sets out to
bull Provide an inspection strategy designed to monitor potential hazard trees in a routine and systematic way and to ensure that trees identified as potential hazard trees are dealt with in a timely manner
bull To clearly identify the roles and responsibilities of different departments within Conservation Halton with respect to hazard tree management
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71
SECTION TWO Forest Inventory
Conservation Halton | 2020
Strategic Forest Management Plan
132320
72
Introduction
Section Two establishes the current resource by way of a comprehensive inventory Each forest stand will be
recorded each parcel of land managed by Conservation Halton will be reflected within this inventory Maps that
capture the current condition and pressures on our forests will be developed Much of this stems from extensive
records already developed however there are areas that we do not yet have full details on and areas with
outdated information on them The Plan will lay out a tool for undertaking this inventory populated with
information that is current It is envisioned that Section 2 will eventually be an electronic resource through
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technology The goal will be to keep all inventory current within 5 years
so this will be an ongoing inventory and will be updated especially after forest management activities
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73
Inventory Approach
Data attributes that could be collected for forest stands are summarized in Appendix 21 They include an assessment of the overstory understory regeneration ground vegetation (eg dominant herbaceous plants) invasive species (species and abundance) forest values (eg stick nests snags and woody debris) and recommended management This inventory provides the data required for planning forest management activities that meet or exceed generally accepted standards of sustainable forest management in Ontario In addition this approach provides data for three of our four forest health metrics (Table 5) and provides data toward determining the presence or absence of habitat for SAR This will allow Conservation Halton to monitor forest health over time and to evaluate trends Table 5 Forest health metrics and goals
Metric Goal
Growing stock condition 70 AGS 30 UGS
Natural regeneration Maintain adequate stocking (1000 ndash 3000 stemsha)
Invasive plants Maintain or reduce abundance
Species at risk No net loss of habitat Full descriptions available in Section 1 of the Plan
In addition this data will give us
bull An ability to track progression of plantations to a natural mixedhardwood forest
bull The necessary detail for us to develop silvicultural prescriptions and management recommendations
bull Quantification of timber volumes which can be used to project revenues
bull An indication of the woodlands most at risk to spreading invasive species
bull An ability to scan the data for species at risk or their habitat
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74
Appendix 21 Example of Compartment Attributes Collected during Forest Inventory
Attribute collected Description of attribute Sample data
TRACT Tract name Main Main
COMPARTMENT Compartment number 07a 11a
HECTARES Area in hectares 10 6
NUMBER OF PLOTS
of prism sample plots 3 5
FOREST TYPE ELC vegetation type Red Pine Coniferous
Plantation Type
Dry-Fresh Oak Hardwood Deciduous
Forest Type
SPECIES COMPOSITION (TREES gt 9 CM DBH)
Overstory composition Pr5 Pw4 Be1 (Aw) Or4 Mh2 Aw1 Be1 Mr1
(Bw He Iw Pt)1
SAPLING COMPOSITION
(TREES 6-8 CM DBH) Advanced tree regeneration Pw8 Mh2 Mh7 Iw3
DBH(CM) (TREES gt 9 CM DBH)
Average stem diameter of overstory trees
30 23
AGE Average age of working group 78 70
HT Average height of working group 26 24
DENSITY (STEMSHA gt 9CM
DBH)
Density of overstory (Stemshectare)
357 641
TOTAL STEMS (gt 9 CM DBH)
of trees in the overstory within the compartment
3570 3846
AGS acceptable growing stock 100 82
BASAL AREA (SQ MHA gt 9 CM DBH)
Basal area of the overstory (m2hectare)
255 256
TOTAL BASAL AREA
(SQ M gt 9 CM DBH) 255 154
SAPLINGS-BA (6-8 CM DBH)
Basal area distribution (m2hectare)
27 12
POLES-BA (10-24 CM DBH)
28 92
SMALL-BA (26-36 CM DBH)
61 96
MEDIUM-BA (38-48 CM DBH)
146 56
LARGE-BA (50-60 CM DBH)
20 12
XLARGE-BA (60+ CM DBH)
00 00
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75
Attribute collected Description of attribute Sample data
HARDWOOD SAWLOG VOLUME (BOARD FEETHA)
Estimated timber volumes
0 6275
TOTAL HARDWOOD SAWLOG VOLUME
(BOARD FEET) 0 37650
CONIFER AND HARDOOD
FUELWOOD VOLUME (CUBIC METERSHA)
229 90
TOTAL CONIFER AND
HARDOOD FUELWOOD VOLUME
(CUBIC METERS)
2290 540
SAPLINGS-DENSITY (6-8 CM DBH)
Density distribution by size class (stemshectare)
644 238
POLES-DENSITY (10-24 CM DBH)
172 470
SMALL-DENSITY (26-36 CM DBH)
70 130
MEDIUM-DENSITY (38-48 CM DBH)
105 37
LARGE-DENSITY (50-60 CM DBH)
10 4
XLARGE-DENSITY (60+ CM DBH)
0 0
ADVANCED REGEN COMPOSITION
Understory composition and density by species
(saplings and seedlings lt6 cm DBH hectare)
Pw10 none
ADVANCED REGEN DENSITY
1836 0
EARLY REGEN COMPOSITION
Or5 Pw2 Mh2 Be1 Or6 Iw3 Be1 (Mh Pw Aw
Mr)
EARLY REGEN DENSITY
4772 14097
SHRUB COMPOSITION Shrubs present and their abundance
(stems hectare)
wild red raspberry10 (serviceberry)
Maple-leaved viburnum7 witch hazel2
leatherwood1
SHRUB DENSITY (STEMSHA)
23127 13214
SNAG-DBH (CM)
Habitat features (stems hectare)
45 20
SNAG-DENSITY (STEMSHA)
9 64
CAVITY-DBH (CM)
0 26
CAVITY-DENSITY (STEMSHA)
0 8
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76
Attribute collected Description of attribute Sample data
CWD-DBH (CM)
21 0
CWD-DENSITY (STEMSHA)
50 0
HERBS (COVER)
Ground vegetation ( cover)
6 6
MOSS (COVER)
0 0
GRASSSEDGE (COVER)
0 6
GROUND VEGETATION SPECIES
Canada may lily wood fern woodland
strawberry
Canada may lily Solomons seal
Sarsaparilla
COMMENT Comments butternut in stand very
rugged rolling
INVASIVE SPECIES Invasive species observed and abundance (see Table below)
GARLMUST (MANY) MANIMAPL (MANY)
RECOMMENDATION MANAGEMENT
SCHEDULE
Period scheduled for management amp description of
management
2020 Selection thin 30
Categories representing invasive plant population
abundance
Abundance Category Population Size
Few lt4m2 (2x2m)
Small 4-25m2 (5x5m)
Many 25-100 m2(10x10m)
Heavy gt 100 m2(10x10m)
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77
SECTION THREE Implementation
Operational Plan
Conservation Halton | 2020
Strategic Forest Management Plan
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78
Introduction
Section Three will establish activities for achieving the goals through a one-year operational plan Activities will be
listed with annual targets for operations across forests and each year activities completed will be reviewed and
the list revised to ensure it always maintains a five-year outlook Section Three will be supported by the
development of forest management prescriptions for each stand
Conservation Haltonrsquos Managed Forest
Conservation Halton owns and manages more than 10840 acres of land across its watersheds Of this land 5121
ac is enrolled in Ontariorsquos Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program (CLTIP) A further 1744 ac is Managed Forest
forest managed under Ontariorsquos Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP) Based on MFTIP property data
coniferous (39) and mixed (33) plantations make up the bulk of the forest and upland forest accounts for a
further 11
The CLTIP is a voluntary tax incentive program where landowners agree to protect provincially important natural
heritage features that have been evaluated and identified by MNRF These lands are assessed at the CL property
class and are tax exempt (MNRF 2010)
The MFTIP is a tax saving program offered by MNRF to landowners who apply qualify and have Managed Forest
eligible lands designed to increase landowner awareness about forest stewardship and encourage responsible
management of forests (MNRF 2017) An approved Managed Forest Plan is required for properties enrolled in
MFTIP
Through the Strategic Forest Management Plan Conservation Halton will replace over 30 individual Managed
Forest Plans with a single document submitted to the MFTIP As well the impacts to the potential
involvement in the CLTIP will be planned for within the Strategic Forest Management Plan providing a single
overarching Plan empowering Conservation Halton to maximise the value delivered through these two
provincial programs The stands that are scheduled for sustainable forest management during the 2020-2025
operational period are currently participating in MFTIP Table 6 provides a summary of properties
participating in the CLTIP and MFTIP
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79
Goals in Action Throughout this Plan success will be measured by working on the tasks listed below
Goal 1 To improve forest health conditions using current and future accepted methodologies and science
To improve forest health conditions using current and future accepted methodologies
Approaches Description Action Proposed Schedule
Key Performance Indicator
Sustainable Forest Management
Identify rolling schedule of forest management operations across Conservation Halton forested lands (plantation and hardwood woodlands) This would include
bull Pre-harvest stand assessments
bull Silvicultural prescriptions approved by a member in good standing with the OPFA
bull Tree marking by Certified Tree Markers
Starting 2020
Refer to Table 7
15 active forest operations over a five-year period
will be adaptable to internal amp external pressures and priorities
Invasive Species Conduct herbaceous invasive species inventory amp update every 5 years thereafter
bull Identify invasive species present in Conservation Halton woodlands
bull Investigate management options available
bull Implement a program of invasive species management alongside sustainable forest management operations
At time of pre-harvest
assessments
Collaborate with CH ecology teams and detect invasive species at stand assessment prior to
every forestry operation
Conduct invasive species inventory within operation areas amp update every 5 years
thereafter
Manage invasive species described in inventory where feasible
Forest Inventory Update forest inventory on all lands owned by Conservation Halton
bull Identify forest management units forest management pressures ecological and environmental sensitivities and required management activities
Inventory
starting 2020
Complete the forest inventory followed by a rolling update based on forestry operations
Prioritize forest inventory for MFTIP
designated woodlands
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80
Approaches Description Action Proposed Schedule
Key Performance Indicator
bull Monitor review and revisit the inventory on an as needed basis to ensure that it remains accurate
Wildlife Habitat
Identify and map
bull Species at Risk
bull Old Growth and Interior Forest Habitats
In addition continue converting softwood plantation to mixed hardwood stands to improve species diversity and wildlife habitat
Continuous
Identify and quantify old growth and interior forest habitat
Follow best practices for SAR and implement
within 1 year
Improve and expand habitats and provide growth opportunities for SAR
Monitoring
Monitor during and post-harvest operations to ensure objectives for careful logging forest health regeneration and invasive species are delivered Identify remedial actions that may be required Monitor tree plantingrestoration projects
Continuous
depending on operational schedules
Operational audit during harvest
Post harvest site restoration assessment
Regeneration assessments after 2-3-years
post plantingoperation
Forest Information Management System (FIMS)
Develop a collaborative tool for sharing forest inventory information across the Authority
By 2022
Implemented within 2 years
Strategic Plan Implementation Administration and Partnerships
Maintain an Ontario Professional Foresters Association member within the team Engage in partnerships on forestry health topics as needed
Ongoing
Maintain at least one Ontario Professional Foresters Association certified staff member
Keep open lines of communication between
forestry staff internal CH teams MNRF b municipal partners NEC r for proposed
management operations
Maintain partnerships with CFIA FGCA MNRF on forest health issues Attend MNRFrsquos annual
forest health conference for trends in forest health
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81
Goal 2 To maximise the value of our forests in delivering environmental goods and services social and health benefits and enhanced forest
diversity
To maximise the value of our forests in delivering environmental services social and health benefits and enhanced forest diversity
Approaches DescriptionActions Proposed Schedule
Key Performance Indicator
Standard Operating Procedures and Best Management Practices
Develop SOPs for
bull Forest inventory
bull Forest Management Prescriptions
bull Monitoring Review SOPs every two years Follow Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Areas of Concern (eg SAR riparian zones stick nests etc)
2020
Develop Standard Operating Procedures for
forestry operations
Follow BMPs for SAR
Wildlife Habitat Implement management options that preserve and create habitats and provide growth opportunities for species at risk Convert monoculture plantations to diverse mixed wood forests Align partner strategies to help provide greater opportunities for undisturbed interior forest habitats
Ongoing
Identify and manage interior forest and old
growth forest characteristic
Conversion of plantations Communicate land securement opportunities with the Lands Department and stewardship
opportunities with the Science and Partnership Department
Invasive Species Monitor and treat invasive species Ongoing
Conduct invasive species inventory within forestry operation areas amp update every 5
years thereafter
Manage invasive species described in inventory where feasible
Seed Forecasting and Collection
Maintain an active seed forecasting and collection program annually and supply seed to local nurseries
Ongoing
Supply seed to local nurseries
Three Certified Seed Collector (CSC) staff members with seed forecaster training
Volume of seeds collected per year
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82
Approaches DescriptionActions Proposed Schedule
Key Performance Indicator
Sustainable Forest Management
Sustainable Forest Management operations that mimic natural processes emphasis on removal of diseased trees and consideration of alternative techniques Continue converting softwood plantation to mixed hardwood stands
2022
2021
Mimic natural disturbances in at least one mixed hardwood stand annually
15 active forest operations over a five-year
period will be adaptable to internal amp external
pressures and priorities
Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Keep up to date on climate science so that we can have a flexible and responsive forestry program to enhance mitigation to climate change Implement an assisted migration trial supported by the Forest Gene Conservation Association (FGCA) ndash Use at least 25 of seeds from more southerly seed zones
Ongoing
40 continuing education hours annually for 2 forestry staff (e- lectures seminars
workshops)
Establish an assisted migration trial within 5 years
Value Matrix Develop communications tools around ecological service values of forests
By 2023 Create a value matrix to express value of Conservation Halton Forests
Goal 3 To maintain and where possible increase forest cover across our watershed through the afforestation of Conservation Halton land
acquisitions and on private lands and through public education and landowner outreach programsTo maintain overall forest cover on
Conservation Halton properties and where possible across our watershed through the afforestation of Conservation Halton land acquisitions and
promote the same on public and private lands through education and landowner outreach programs
Approaches DescriptionActions Proposed Schedule
Key Performance Indicator
Land Securement Strategy Support the Land Securement Strategy and implementation thereof
2020
Based upon priority ranking system and funding availability in any given year
Forestry Initiatives Stewardship and Outreach
Implement a program to support public and private landowner forestry initiatives including
bull Tree planting ndash 50M Program
bull Pre-plant preparation
Ongoing
Plant 30-50000 trees annually
Post-plant survival assessments 2 and 5 years after planting
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83
Approaches DescriptionActions Proposed Schedule
Key Performance Indicator
bull Post-Plant Survival Assessments
bull Forest Management Plans eg MFTIP
bull Education and Outreach
Number of Managed Forest Plans written
per year
Internal Partnerships Support programs across Conservation Halton including the sourcing and supply of tree stock to partner departments such as Stewardship and Restoration
Ongoing Work collaboratively with internal departments to facilitate their tree planting
related programs
Sustainable Forest Management
Conduct survival and regeneration assessments for Conservation Haltonrsquos new and managed plantations Seek out opportunities for forest restoration
Ongoing
Ongoing
60 plantation survival for new plantings and ensuring sufficient regeneration rates
for postharvest
Collaborate with stewardshiprestoration initiatives
Outreach and Education Plan and implement a series of public outreach and educational events Explore other options for formal and informal educational outreach New outreach streams including watershed tour of harvesting restoration and planting
Ongoing
1-2 per year
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84
Appendix 31 Management Plan
A working list of Conservation Halton properties that require forest management through MFTIP are listed in
Table 6 These properties all have MFTIP designated stands or areas that must follow their own forest
management plans In addition other Conservation Halton lands classified as CLTIP will be inventoried and
assessed for forest management needs
The pine plantations and mixed hardwood stands are itemized with their approximate stand size All plantation
stands are due for management based on their thinning cycle and will be prioritized according to severity of stand
conditions following updated forest inventory data The status of the mixed hardwood stands is unknown and will
be determined following forest inventory data collection As inventory work is completed harvest prescriptions
will be written by staff and approved by a Registered Professional Forester
The Operational Plan of this document (Table 7) outlines the properties and stands that Conservation Halton
plans to manage in the first year of this SFMP As forest inventory data is updated for all Conservation Halton
properties forest management needs will be assessed at each property and operational planning will be
prioritized accordingly This data will allow us to create a five-year outlook This will become a fluid five-year
operation plan because some stands will require different permitting than others As approvals are acquired
stands will be confirmed for the following yearrsquos Operation Plan
Monitoring will be incorporated throughout the planning implementation and audit stages of the operations
Monitoring will be three-fold starting with screening for species at risk and invasive species before work
commences The second phase will take place during the harvest to ensure best management practices are being
followed The last phase of monitoring will evaluate the site restoration needs and regeneration success post
management activities A detailed plan will be developed to outline the protocol for monitoring these factors
throughout the forest management operation
To carry out forest management activities various permits must be acquired In certain circumstances permits
will be required for works occurring within or near provincially significant wetlands species at risk habitat and
other regulated areas This could require different levels of permitting from Conservation Halton the Niagara
Escarpment Commission and the Ministry of the Environment Conservation and Parks The properties presented
in the Management Plan are located within either Wellington County City of Hamilton or Halton Region which
requires a permit for forest management activities under their respective local By-laws Each property involved in
forest management activities will go through the appropriate internal and external screening and permit
application processes
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85
Table 6 Management Plan CH properties that require forest management under MFTIP
Property Summary
Area on Assessment
acres
Conservation Lands Tax Incentive Program
participating acres
Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program
participating acres
MFTIP Stand Types
Property Name Roll Conifer
plantations acres
Mixed plantations
acres
Mixed wood stands acres
Wet woods acres
1 Mountsberg CA 2301 000 005 21500 3623 22535 128 4865 7095 84
2518 303 970 40000 46771 36865 9464 7284 852
2518 303 970 40200 29108 15766 6028 4588 144
2409 030 002 42500 19822 11169 8653 4375 2822
2 Moffat Badenoch---McCrodan
2301 000 007 03500 180 10323 7677 4275 4227
Moffat Badenoch---McLean
2301 000 007 04500 1663 13519 3111 3111
3 Mount Nemo 2402 030 306 03800 3292 25762 6985 1663 5322
Colling 2402 030 305 08700 8494 5501 2993 2993
Paletta 2402 030 308 08310 1922 0 1922 1922
4 Harrison 2409 030 002 24200 5968 4759 1209 1209
5 Kiwanis 2409 030 001 21200 100 9012 988 6 388
6 Hilton Falls-Mahon tract 2409 030 001 80050 2115 0 2115 2115
Hilton Falls 2409 030 001 76700 159512 146751 7706 1485 122 346
7 Edmondson 2409 030 002 25200 7658 4941 2617 465 1652
8 Shanahan 2409 030 002 38400 16703 14206 2497 2335 162
9 Twiss 2409 070 301 11300 51 2716 2384 1884 5
10 Rattlesnake Pt 2409 070 302 01600 6076 46111 12693 9411 1552 173
MacDonald 2409 070 302 01900 11897 7542 4355 4355
11 Crawford Lake 2409 070 302 03900 5502 45765 8005 30 4505 5
12 16 Valley 2409 090 070 09800 70 27 43 3097 1203
13 Esquesing 2415 070 002 24800 3731 2743 988 988
14 Fuciarelli 2518 302 510 24600 14888 13128 166 166
15 Plaikner 2415 070 004 09000 5528 2928 26 38 222
16 Waterdown Woods 2518 303 310 12600 11858 8465 3393 3393
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86
WW Robinson 2402 020 204 07221 1858 0 1858 1858
17 Grindstone 2402 010 102 05710 15875 14417 1458 1458
18 Kelso 2409 030 001 80000 96266 39061 36639 5255 21257 1177 185
Kelso Quarry 2409 030 001 84400 17567 827 8469 95 5825
19 Knight 2518 302 910 00175 4592 3318 1274 1274
20 Heaslip 2409 070 301 17200 8997 1303 7569 1829 1063 2408 2269
Totals for MFTIP
properties 73279 512133 17441 68222 59908
27147
6339
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87
Table 7 Operational Plan Example CH properties that require forest management in 2021
Property Compartment Stand
Composition Area (ac)
Treatment Type
SAR and Sensitive Species Consideration
Regulated by CH
Municipal Regional
NEC MECP Permit
Previous Operation
Species YesNo
Shanahan (N1)
A Pr5 Pw5 371 Thinning Bobolink Chorus Frog
Snapping Turtle West Virginia White Butterfly Milk snake
Yes Halton Region
amp MECP
Thinned 2005
D Pr8 Pw1 Sw1 297 Thinning Thinned 2005
G Pr7 Pw3 691 Thinning Thinned 2005
N Pr8 Pw2 84 Thinning Thinned 2005
Total 2199
Mountsberg (C5)
(Mackenzie-Davis)
L Pw5 Pr5 272 Thinning
Painted Turtles Blue Spotted Salamander Prong Horn Clubtail Bobolink West Virginia White Butterfly
Yes Halton Region
amp MECP
Thinned 2005
M Sw10 198 Thinning Thinned 2005
N Pr10 140 Thinning Thinned 2005
O Pr10 642 Thinning Thinned 2005
P Sw10 272 Thinning Thinned 2005
R Pw10 247 Thinning Thinned 2005
S Pr5 Pw3 Sw2 939 Thinning Thinned 2005
U Sw7 Ce3 445 Thinning Thinned 2005
V pr10 247 Thinning Thinned 2005
W Pr4 Sw3 Pw3 321 Thinning Thinned 2005
Total 3722
Robert Edmondson (C7)
2 (E) Pw10 296 Thinning West Virginia White Butterfly Western Chorus Frog Broad winged Hawk Eastern Wood
Pewee
Yes Halton Region
amp MECP
Thinned Pre 2000
H Pw10 296 Thinning Thinned Pre 2000
TOTAL 593
Overall TOTAL 6513
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88
NOTES Ac Acres
AGS Acceptable Growing Stock
ANSI Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest
AGS Acceptable Growing Stock
CA Conservation Authority
BMP Best Management Practices
CLTIP Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program
CFIA Canadian Food Inspection Agency
CSC Certified Seed Collector
DBH Diameter at Breast Height
EAB Emerald Ash Borer
ESA Endangered Species Act
Ha Hectare
FIMS Forest Information Management System
FSC Forest Stewardship Council
FGCA Forest Gene Conservation Association
Hdwds Hardwoods
Inv Inventory
Afforestation Program
~30000 ndash 50000 tree seedlings per year ~2000hahellip50ha of new foresthellipcombined private landowners CH lands and municipalities Supported through Forests Ontario 50 Million Tree Program
2020-2025
Seed Collection
~Up to 10 hectolitres of native tree and shrub seed is collected by CH Certified seed collectors in seed zones 34 and 37 annually Collections of up to 20 species are undertaken during spring through the fall depending on the species and the demand of the supply nurseries High quality locally adapted seed is the foundation of the CH Afforestation Program and best able to withstand the stresses of a changing climate
2020-2025
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89
MBCA Migratory Bird Convention Act
MFTIP Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program
NE Niagara Escarpment Commission
NHS Natural Heritage Systems
OMNRF Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
OHT Ontario Heritage Trust
OIPC Ontario Invasive Plant Council
OPG Ontario Power Generation
PSP Permanent Sample Plots
SA Survival Assessment
SAR Species at Risk
Spp Species
Rx Silvicultural prescription
USFS US Forest Service
UGS Unacceptable Growing Stock
150320
REPORT TO
REPORT NO
FROM
DATE
SUBJECT
Conservation Halton Board of Directors
CHBD 07 20 07
Marnie Piggot Director Finance
October 22 2020
2021 Budget amp Business Plan
Recommendation
THAT municipal funding of $10430879 in the 2021 budget be approved by a weighted vote by the Conservation Halton Board of Directors
And
THAT transfers to and from Reserves in the 2021 budget be approved as outlined in this report
And
THAT the 2021 Budget amp Business Plan be approved as presented
Executive Summary
The Finance amp Audit Committee recommended at the October 7 2020 meeting that the 2021 budget be approved by the Conservation Halton Board of Directors The 2021 budget and ten-year forecasts are included in the 2021 Budget amp Business Plan also provided as part of the meeting package
The 2021 preliminary budget was submitted to both Halton and Peel region staff in July Staff have met with Regional staff in September and October to provide an overview of the 2021 budget and municipal funding increase The budget presentation to Region of Halton Council is currently planned for November 25 2020
The proposed final 2021 budget of $368 million will allow Conservation Halton to continue to meet its strategic priorities as outlined in the Conservation Halton strategic plan Metamorphosis Planning by staff is underway for a refresh of Metamorphosis The revamped plan will improve and build on our current objectives themes and success to date
Municipal funding in the 2021 budget of $10430879 remains at the same amount included in the preliminary budget presented in June The $306561 increase in municipal funding is 3 more than was requested in 2020 This increase is below the Region of Halton guideline of 37 Specific guidelines have not been received from the other three municipalities
The 2021 budget and forecast considered a balance of strategic priorities growth-related pressures and potential COVID related impacts on programs that are still uncertain at this time We have kept the 2021 budget increase below regional guidelines by finding operating efficiencies that do not affect
151320
service levels and found alternative funding sources which includes grants This has helped us minimize the impact on our municipal funding partners Most of the budget continues to be funded through self-generated revenues and base municipal funding remains at less than 30 of the total funding sources Major drivers of the 2021 budget increase over 2020 budget amounts are related to increased staffing costs and projected lower program revenues Planning and park revenues have been reduced from the prior year based on average historical trends and potential COVID impacts The 2020 fiscal impact of the COVID pandemic is expected to continue well into 2021 Report The 2021 budget is segregated according to Conservation Halton budget principles into Watershed Management amp Support Services (WMSS) programs and the Conservation Areas A summary of the 2021 budget is provided in this report with further budget details found in the 2021 Budget amp Business Plan The 2021 operating budget of $319 million and $49 million capital budget will provide for further investments into Conservation Halton programs services and infrastructure
2021 Budget Revisions Minor revisions have been made in the 2021 budget from the 2021 preliminary budget and there is no change in municipal funding A summary of the 2021 budget revisions include
bull Municipal apportionment percentages for 2021 received from the province have been updated
bull Staff compensation and benefits have been increased by $195000 for Watershed Management amp Support Services and the Parks programs This increase is fully funded by increased chargebacks program revenue and other grants The impact of the increased staff costs resulted in a decrease of almost $25000 to a revised Conservation Authority operating surplus of $251284 The increase in program revenue reverses some of the Planning revenue decrease
152320
included in the preliminary budget The increase has been warranted based on current projected 2020 revenue with lessened COVID pressures than originally thought
bull Municipal debt financing charges of $569245 provided by Region of Halton staff have been
updated and have increased slightly by $912 from the preliminary budget
2021 Operating Budget The operating budget of $319 million provides for an investment of $181 million in Watershed Management amp Support Services programs and an investment of $138 million into the Conservation Areas
Investing in Watershed Management amp Support Services The WMSS 2021 operating increase is partially funded by program revenue grants reserves and chargebacks Major drivers of the WMSS municipal funding increase include
bull Staff compensation and benefits cost increases of $665051 Staff salaries and benefits increases in the 2021 budget are related to a 1 inflation adjustment to the salary bands and an increase to 96 of the salary band approximating actual salary costs
bull Planning and Permit revenue reduction of $171100 adjusted closer to historical results There is the potential for higher Planning revenues as a result of the Regional allocation program approved in 2020 that has not been factored into the budget though this may also require
153320
additional staffing resources There is an offsetting increase in other program revenue and grants of $267768
Investing in our Parks The Conservation Areas 2021 operating budget provides for an investment of $13843514 into the parks Operating expenses have increased in the Conservation Areas 2021 operating budget by $373717 A large portion of the higher operating expenses are related to staffing costs which have increased by $284317 The staff increase is for the most part to adjust part time seasonal staff costs to better reflect historical spending The increase in expenses is funded entirely by park program revenue The chargeback to the Conservation Areas for support services has increased in the 2021 operating budget by $199800 to $1393200 The increase is related to support service staffing changes and the estimated allocation of time spent on park programs Program and other funding revenue have decreased by $144610 to $13526040 from the 2020 Budget amount of $13670650 Program revenue includes adjustments based on the three-year average of historical actual amounts and partially considers COVID impacts The proposed revenue amounts assume average fee increases to continue to transition to full cost recovery Staffing The 2021 budget includes 251 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff that are comprised of 113 FTE in Watershed Management amp Support Services (WMSS) programs and 138 FTE in the Conservation Areas Total WMSS full time staff equivalent (FTE) staff has not changed from the prior year There is an overall increase of 41 FTE staff positions in the parks The staff complement chart provided in the 2021 Budget amp Business Plan provides a detailed breakdown of the FTE changes 2021 Capital Budget Summary The 2021 capital budget represents an investment of $49 million into infrastructure and technology to enhance programs and services in the watershed of $38 million and Conservation Areas of $11 million The capital budget provides funding for projects such as the rehabilitation of flood control infrastructure updating of flood plain mapping investments in digital transformation and technology upgrades vehicle and equipment replacements managing the impacts of Emerald Ash Borer land management initiatives and infrastructure improvements at the Conservation Areas
154320
Municipal Funding The total municipal funding increase of $306561 includes an additional $39300 for State of Good Repair levies for dams channels and facility assets to gradually meet target levels established in the Asset Management Plans for these assets Asset Management Plans have been completed for all of Conservation Haltonrsquos assets with most of the assets identified as in good condition
The operating and capital forecasts have been prepared with municipal funding increases ranging from 3 to 45 annually Apportionment of Municipal Funding Municipal funding of $10430879 is apportioned to the Region of Halton City of Hamilton Region of Peel and Township of Puslinch according to the area and proportional current value assessment (CVA) of the municipality falling within the Conservation Halton watershed Based on updated current value assessment data and apportionment percentages received from the Province the apportioned municipal funding amounts are as follows
Total Municipal Funding Budget
2021 Budget 2020$ Increase (Decrease) Increase
Operating $9695379 $9221118 $474261 51Capital 257000 464000 (207000) -446
9952379 9685118 267261 28State of Good Repair (SOGR) Levy - Dams amp Channels Buildings 478500 439200 39300 89Municipal Funding total $10430879 $10124318 $306561 30
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Debt Financing Debt Financing Charges and Debt Capacity Municipal debt financing included in the 2021 budget of $526500 is comprised of 50 of the Morrison-Wedgewood Channel spill prevention design estimated costs of $53000 and low impact development (LID) system improvements at the Administration Office of $500000 The Debt Financing Charges included in the 2021 operating budget of $619245 includes $569245 municipal debt financing charges and $50000 for estimated principal and interest payments on a land acquisition loan with the Hamilton Community Foundation (HCF) The total long-term debt balance is currently $$5671453 The debt capacity ratio estimated for 2021 of 45 is based on estimated own source revenues excluding Conservation Areas program revenue Conservation Halton has approved a debt capacity ratio of 10 in its Budget Principles Reserve Funding The reserve summary below lists the projected reserve balances at December 31 2021 and the proposed transfers to and from reserves in the 2021 budget A reserve continuity schedule with reserve balances to 2030 is also provided in the 2021 Budget amp Business Plan
MunicipalityApportion-
ment 2021 Municipal
Funding 2021 Apportion-
ment 2020 Municipal
Funding 2020 IncreaseRegion of Halton 878421 $9162704 877576 $8884859 31Region of Peel 47534 495821 48142 487405 17City of Hamilton 71875 749719 72109 730054 27Township of Puslinch 02170 22635 02173 22000 29
1000000 $10430879 1000000 $10124318
Conservation Halton Reserves
Reserves Projected
Balance Dec 31 2020
Contribution from
Municipal Funding
Contribution from Surplus
State of Good Repair
Levy
Contribution to Capital
Projects
Contribution to Operating
Expenses
Reserves Projected
Balance Dec 31 2021
Watershed Management amp Support ServicesVehicle and Equipment 720083 (167562) 552521 Building 230128 230128 Building - State of Good Repair 262293 102000 (70136) 294157 Watershed Management Capital - Municipal Funds and Self Generated Funds 982872 376500 (575000) 784372 Watershed Management amp Support Services Stabilization 793193 793193 Capital Projects - Debt Financing Charges 472670 472670 Digital Transformation 250000 250000 Legal - Planning amp Watershed Management 258891 258891 Legal - Corporate 200000 200000 Water Festival 158911 - (18615) 140296 Land Securement 59537 25000 84537 Property Management 80040 80040 Stewardship and Restoration 342399 (144000) (17500) 180899
Conservation AreasCapital 2963738 251284 (1143412) 2071610 Stabilization 1000568 1000568
Total Reserves 8775322 25000 251284 478500 (2100110) (36115) 7393881
156320
Conservation Authority (CA) Act Provincial Review For the 2021 budget provincial funding has been assumed to remain at the same level as 2020 funding There have been no official updates received from the Province and Minister on their review of the CA Act and the joint stakeholder meetings hosted by the Province in late 2019 Impact on Strategic Goals This report supports the Metamorphosis strategic theme of Striving for service excellence and efficiency This theme is supported by the objective to provide clear financial data and analysis to support informed strategic and operational decision-making for budget development and long-term planning Financial Impact Conservation Halton staff have developed a fiscally conservative budget for 2021 The modest increase of 30 for operating expenses and State of Good Repair Levy that is proposed
bull considers the potential fiscal impacts of COVID bull recognizes our regional funding municipalities fiscal pressures bull continues to provide core services in a growing watershed bull ensures the needs of the increasing number of visitors at our Conservation Areas are met and bull reflects program and service enhancements to address service delivery objectives outlined in
Conservation Haltonrsquos Strategic Plan Metamorphosis The 2021 budget addresses increased staff costs and estimated revenue shortfalls primarily through operational efficiencies Additionally the proposed 2021 budget continues to provide for investments in our programs to enhance service delivery supports digital transformation initiatives watershed planning work greenspace revitalization floodplain mapping flood forecasting and enhances user experiences at our parks Signed amp respectfully submitted Approved for circulation
Marnie Piggot Hassaan Basit Director Finance President amp CEOSecretary-
Treasurer
Lawrence Wagner Senior Director Corporate Services FOR QUESTIONS ON CONTENT Marnie Piggot Director Finance 905-336-1158 ext 2240
mpiggothrcaonca
157320
CONSERVATION HALTON2021 BUDGET amp BUSINESSPLAN
158320
FOREWARD2021 Budget Preparation Timeline
Submitted byHassaan BasitPresident amp CEO
Prepared byLawrence WagnerSenior Director Corporate Services
Marnie Piggot CPA CADirector Finance
Melissa SilberCPA CGAManager Accounting
Kimberly OrsquoMalley CPACGAAccounting Analyst
In Collaboration withSenior Leadership Team and Departmental Staff from
bull Corporate Servicesbull Corporate Compliancebull Flood Forecasting amp Operationsbull Planning amp WatershedManagementbull Science amp Partnershipsbull Project Management Officebull Operationsbull Parks amp Recreation
bull Budget revisions
bull Preparation of 2022ndash 2030Operating amp Capital Forecast and approval by Finance amp Audit Committee
bull Budget meetings withmunicipal fundingpartners
bull Notice of budget approval sent to Conservation Halton watershedmunicipalities
bull Preparation of 2021 Budget amp 2022 ndash 2030 Operating and Capital forecast
bull Approval of preliminary budget by Financial and Audit Committee and Board of Directors
October ndash February
bull Presentation of final budget to Finance amp Audit Committeeand to Board ofDirectors
bull Presentation of finalbudget tomunicipalities
June ndash October
March ndash June
2Conservation Halton 2021 Budget amp Business Plan159320
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4 Introduction5 Welcome Message6 About Conservation Halton7 Summary of Strategic Plan8 Board ofDirectors9 Senior Leadership Team
10 ExecutiveSummary
13 Operating BudgetSummary14 2021 Budget Summary16 Watershed Management amp SupportServices17 Conservation Areas18 Sources of Operating Budget funding19 Staff Compliment Changes
24 Capital Budget Summary25 2021 Budget Summary26 Watershed Management amp SupportServices27 Conservation Areas28 Sources of Capital Budget funding
30 2021 Operating Budget amp Forecast 2022 ndash 2030
36 2021 Capital Budget amp Forecast 2022 ndash 2030
43 Municipal Funding44 Municipal Apportionment45 Municipal FundingForecast
47 Departmental BusinessPlans48 Corporate Services63 Corporate Compliance70 Flood Forecasting amp Operations76 Planning amp WatershedManagement86 Science amp Partnerships96 Project Management Office
102 Watershed Management amp Support Services Operations(WMSS)109 Parks amp Recreation
115 Reserves
3Conservation Halton 2021 Budget amp Business Plan160320
INTRODUCTION
161320
Our 2021 budget balances strategic priorities growth-related pressures and potential COVID-19 related impacts on programming while continuing to enable progress on our strategic plan Metamorphosis
Despite the unforeseen challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic presented in 2020mdashincluding the temporary closure of our parksmdashwe remain resilient and in healthy financial shape Our goal to improve our long-term financial sustainability remains on track This is in large part thanks to a previous commitment and investment into modernizing our operations through technology
The 2021 budget of $368 million continues to be funded through largely self-generated revenues with base municipal funding remaining less than 30 of total funding sources The 2021 budget addresses increased staff costs and estimated revenue shortfalls primarily through operational efficiencies The measures taken early in 2020 to ensure financial viability control expenses and seek opportunities to open our parks in a safe and controlled manner has resulted in a minimal funding increase request to municipalities of 3 that ranges from 17 to 31 based on apportionment data while provincial funding is assumed to remain at the same level as 2020 The budget has been prepared through continued emphasis on operating efficiencies that do not affect service levels or customer experience as well as increased grants and funding to minimize the impact on municipal partners
2020 has demonstrated the important connection between nature and both physical and mental health As we look to 2021 we remain committed to serving our communities The proposed budget continues to provide for investments in our programs to enhance environmental conservation and restoration support digital transformation facilitate safe equitable access to greenspace through our parks enhance service delivery for our building and development customers and improve flood forecasting and floodplain mapping
Planning by staff is underway to complete a refresh of our strategic plan that will contain similar themes carrying Metamorphosis into the next phase As always emphasis on building resiliency and mitigating the effects of climate change through community engagement education forest management environmental monitoring stewardship and habitat restoration and corporate social responsibility remains a top priority
Partnerships and collaboration have never been more critical than during the current COVID-19 pandemic 2020 and 2021 will continue to disrupt and challenge the sustainability of our services and products Conservation Halton is grateful for the continued support of our municipal partners especially that of our largest funding partner Halton Region and we look forward to serving our watershed residents together
On behalf of everyone at Conservation Halton and our Board of Directors I would like to thank all our funders supporters customers and volunteers for their support over the last year
WELCOME MESSAGE
Hassaan BasitPresident amp CEO
Gerry SmallegangeChair Board of Directors
162320
ABOUT CONSERVATION HALTON
Conservation Halton was established more than 60 years ago to protect our communities from flooding and erosion and manage and restore natural resources of thewatershed We have grown to become so much more
Today it is our responsibility to prepare our communities for the impacts of climate change support our partners in creating more sustainable communities manage our natural areas and resources within the watershed monitor and enhance the environmental health of our watershed and create opportunities to connect with nature through recreation and education
Here at Conservation Halton you will find highly skilled and competent professional staff Together we are working to ensure a healthy watershed with clean streams abundant forests and natural habitats that are in balance with our growing communities and engage residents
163320
SUMMARY OF STRATEGIC PLAN
Conservation Haltonrsquos strategic plan Metamorphosis was approved by the Conservation Halton Board of Directors The plan sets out priorities to guide staff in developing work plans
KEY SERVICE TARGETS
1 Limit increases in annual tax-supportedoperating expenditures to regional budgetguidelines
2 Plan for long-term capital needs with asustainable financingstrategy
3 Increase self-generated revenue by 2 to 5 percentannually
4 Deliver comments on 95 percent of technical reviewsof permit and planning applications in sixweeks
5 Process 95 percent of minor permit applications within 30days
6 Reach an average customer satisfaction rate of 90percent across all service areas
KEY CONSERVATION TARGETS
1 Work with partners to increase the amount of protected terrestrial and aquatic area by 2 to 5percent
2 Maintain a consistent or improving trend in key water quality indicators such as phosphorus nitrate chloride and suspended solids across thewatershed
3 Monitor 100 aquatic and terrestrial stations across the watershed to assess changes and informenvironmental managementdecisions
4 Increase the number of watershed residents who participate in conservation outreach education and stewardship activities by 15 to 20percent
5 Increase the number of floodplain wetland andwatercourse restoration projects by 5 to 10percent
6 Transition our corporate offices and parks operations toa carbon neutral footprint
Taking care of ourgrowing communities
Protecting our naturalcultural and scenicassets
Preparing for the effectsof climate change
Creating opportunities to connect with nature
THE STRATEGIC PLAN HAS FOUR MAIN THEMES
7Conservation Halton 2021 Budget amp Business Plan164320
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF HALTON
BURLINGTONMayor Marianne Meed WardCouncillor RoryNisanMr Gerry SmallegangeChairMr JimSweetlove
HALTON HILLSCouncillor Moya JohnsonVice-ChairCouncillor BryanLewis
MILTONMayor Gordon KrantzCouncillor Mike CluettCouncillor Rick Di LorenzoCouncillor ZeeshanHamid
OAKVILLEMayor Rob BurtonCouncillor CathyDuddeckCouncillor Allan ElgarCouncillor DaveGittings
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF PEEL
MISSISSAUGAMr Hamza AnsariMrs JeanWilliams
CITY OF HAMILTONMs Joanne DiMaioDr ZobiaJawed
TOWNSHIP OF PUSLINCH
Mr StephenGilmour
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SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM
The above organizational structure is as of September 2020 9Conservation Halton 2021 Budget amp Business Plan166320
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY167320
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Capital Projects
$4905110
Operating Budget
$31912984
Total 2021 Budget $36818094
Capital Projects Operating Budget
Conservation Haltonrsquos 2021 budget of $368 million and 2022-2030 forecast provides the resources that are needed to protect restore and manage the natural resources in the watershed and provide continued improvements to its programs services and infrastructure
Similar to other public bodies the preparation of the budget and forecast requires thoughtful consideration to balancing inflationary and growth-related pressures within funding guidelines provided by our municipal partners Additionally the budget incorporates potential longer-term fiscal impacts from COVID-19 pandemic
The 2021 budget has increased by $16 million over the total 2020 budget of $352 million The small year over year budget increase has been achieved through operating efficiencies and increased grants and other funding to minimize the impact on municipal partners Most of the 2021 budget continues to be funded through self-generated revenues with base municipal funding remaining at less than 30 of the total funding sources
A key service target in Conservation Haltonrsquos Strategic Plan is to limit operating and capital municipal funding increases to regional budget guidelines The 2021 increase in municipal operating is 30 and is within the guideline of 37 provided by the Region of Halton Included in the municipal funding increase of $306561 is $39300 to the State of Good Repair Levy for dams and channels and building assets
The operating and capital forecast has been prepared with municipal funding increases ranging from 3 to 45 annually that includes a phasing in of funding to maintain assets in a good state of repair The budget and forecast also includes increases of 2 to 5 annually from self-generated revenue in line with the strategic plan service target
Staffing is determined by the Senior Leadership Team through a review of program service delivery needs The 2021 budget includes 251 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff that are comprised of 113 FTE in Watershed Management amp Support Services (WMSS) programs and 138 FTE in the Conservation Areas While there is no increase in the WMSS staffing there is an overall increase of 41 full time equivalent (FTE) staff positions in the parks funded by park program revenues The 2021 budget proposes an operating surplus for the parks of $251284
In summary the 2021 budget continues to provide core services in a growing watershed ensures the needs of the increasing number of visitors at our Conservation Areas are met and reflects program and service enhancements to address service delivery objectives
11Conservation Halton 2021 Budget amp Business Plan168320
$16107788
$553498 $2832634
$2209070
$36115
$10173879
Total Budget Funding Sources $36818094
Program Revenue 49 Provincial Funding 2
Other 9 Chargeback Recoveries 7
Reserves 1 Municipal Funding 32
Operating Budget 2021 Budget 2020 Budget
Corporate Services 4432544 4420137 Corporate Compliance 774777 704615 Engineering 508284 536797 Planning amp Watershed Management 4893668 4833339 Science amp Partnerships 1992466 1733788 Project Management Office 2721509 1685903 WMSS Operations 1623476 1445096 Debt Financing 619245 649011 Reserves 25000 25000 Conservation Areas 13843514 13992489 State of Good Repair Levy 478500 439200
31912984 30465375
Capital Budget 2021 Budget 2020 Budget
Corporate Services 137000 364000 Other Foundation Funded Projects 100000 100000 Corporate Compliance 25000 125000 Engineering 1273000 1427373 Planning amp Watershed Management 525000 355000 Project Management Office 714136 384000 Emerald Ash Borer 820000 862243 Vehicle amp Equipment Replacement 167562 194339 Conservation Areas 1143412 920556
4905110 4732511
Total Operating amp Capital Budget 36818094$ 35197886$
12Conservation Halton 2021 Budget amp Business Plan169320