Appendix C Natural Heritage Review Supporting Information

APPENDIX C

Natural Heritage Review Supporting Information Appendix B. Wildlife Observations

WSU1 WSU2 WSU3 WSU5 WSU6 WSU7 WSU8 Area CUW/CUM/S CUW/CUM FOD/SWM/ WSU4 CUP FOD/SWC/ FOD/CUP/ Flying Sensitive FOD/CUP/C FOM/CUP/ SARA MNR Area Habitat NHIC WM Pond S N & S of SWD/CUW S of McKay CUP/CUM CUT/CUM Overhead Highest Common Name Scientific Name GRANK1 SRANK2 COSEWIC3 MNR4 Schedule 5 Birds - UW/CUT/C CUW/CUT Agri Fields Comments Status 5 Sensitive7 Use 8 Tracked of McKay Rd McKay Rd. N of McKay Rd (W of N of McKay S of of Study Abundance Ecoregion UM N of S of Salem (E of (E of Rd (E of Hwy400) Rd (W of Lockhart Area 6E Salem Rd Rd Hwy400) Hwy400) Hwy400) Hwy400) Rd Amphibians American Toad Anaxyrus americanus G5 S5 N 1 1 Dead on road Northern Leopard Frog Lithobates pipiens G5 S5 NAR NAR N 1 1 Birds American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos G5 S5B E N 4 1 5 American Goldfinch Spinus tristis G5 S5B E N 3 2 2 1 2 1 11 Nest w/young in WSU1 American Robin Turdus migratorius G5 S5B E N 1 1 1 3 Black-capped Chickadee Poecile atricapillus G5 S5 I/E N 3 4 2 4 1 4 18 Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata G5 S5 I/E N 2 1 1 1 1 6 Canada Goose Branta canadensis G5 S5 M/F N 100 100 Foraging in soy field south of Salem Rd. Common Raven Corvus corax G5 S5 I N 1 1 Dark-eyed Junco Junco hyemalis G5 S5B N 1 1 2 Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens G5 S5 I/E N 1 2 1 4 Eastern Phoebe Sayornis phoebe G5 S5B I/E N 1 1 1 3 European Starling Sturnus vulgaris G5 SNA E N 10 10 Horned Lark Eremophila alpestris G5 S5B,SZN N 1 1 House Sparrow Passer domesticus G5 SNA E N 1 1 Killdeer Charadrius vociferus G5 S5B,S5N N 1 1 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos G5 S5 S/B, M/F N 1 1 Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura G5 S5 E N 2 2 Mourning Warbler Geothlypis philadelphia G5 S4B E N 1 1 Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis G5 S5 I/E N 1 1 2 Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus G5 S4B I/E N 1 1 2 Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapilla G5 S4B X X I N 1 1 Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis G5 S5 NAR NAR E N 1 1 Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia G5 S5B E N 5 1 6 Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura G5 S5B N 1 1 White-breasted Nuthatch Sitta carolinensis G5 S5 X I N 1 1 Insects Hairstreak sp. Satyrium sp. G5 S4,S5 ~ 1 1 Monarch Danaus plexippus G5 S2N,S4B SC SC SC 1 Y 1 1 2 Spreadwing sp. Lestes sp. G5 S4,S5 ~ 1 1 Mammals Eastern Chipmunk Tamias striatus G5 S5 N 2 1 3 Eastern Cottontail Sylvilagus floridanus G5 S5 N 1 1 2 Grey Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis G5 S5 N 1 1 2 Muskrat Ondatra zibethicus G5 S5 N 1 1 Northern Short-tailed Shrew Blarina brevicauda G5 S5 N 1 1 Raccoon Procyon lotor G5 S5 N scat ~ Red Squirrel Tamiasciurus hudsonicus G5 S5 N 1 1 1 3 White-tailed Deer Odocoileus virginianus G5 S5 N bed ~ Woodchuck Marmota monax G5 S5 N den ~

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 Appendix B - Wildlife Observations Page B-1 Appendix C. SAR Screening Table

Species At Risk Designations ENDANGERED THREATENED SPECIAL CONCERN EXTIRPATED

ESA Status1 and Source of Reasonable Likelihood of Presence in Results of Field Species Regional ESA Protection2 Key Habitats Used by Species in Ontario Surveys Undertaken Record (Date) Study Area Surveys Occurrence Birds None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. remote Species Protection Colonial nesters on remote islands that are barren or sparsely islands in waterbodies or wetlands) within study 1 round of Fall general American White Pelican THR and Habitat Ebird treed in lakes, reservoirs, or on large rivers (MNRF Species Profile area; however, given the proximity of Lake wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) Regulation Online 2014). Simcoe, this species may be observed flying assessments overhead. None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large Prefers deciduous and mixed-deciduous forest; and habitat close super canopy tree along large waterbody) within 1 round of Fall general Bald Eagle MNRF Regional to water bodies such as lakes and rivers; SC N/A study area; however, given the proximity of Lake wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) List They roost in super canopy trees such as Pine (MNRF Guelph - Simcoe, this species may be observed flying assessments Waterloo List, 2014) overhead. High - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. former It nests in a wide variety of naturally and anthropogenically created aggregate pit and steep sand/dirt hills) occur 1 round of Fall general Bank Swallow Species and General vertical banks, which often erode and change over time including THR Ebird within study area. This species was confirmed in wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Riparia riparia) Habitat Protection aggregate pits and the shores of large lakes and rivers (MNRF the study area in 2011 (NRSI and Dougan & assessments Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) Associates).

MNRF Regional prefers farmland; lake/river shorelines; wooded clearings; urban High - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. culverts, 1 round of Fall general Barn Swallow Species and General List; MNRF populated areas; rocky cliffs; and wetlands. They nest inside or bridges, buildings) occurs within study area. This THR wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Hirundo rustica) Habitat Protection Midhurst District outside buildings; under bridges and in road culverts; on rock species was confirmed in the vicinity of the study assessments Correspondence faces and in caves etc. (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) area in 2011 (NRSI and Dougan & Associates).

None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large Generally prefer freshwater marshes and wetlands; nest either on wetlands) occurs within study area; however, 1 round of Fall general Black Tern MNRF Regional SC N/A floating material in a marsh or on the ground very close to water given proximity of Holland Marsh and Minesing wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Chlidonias niger) List (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) Wetlands, this species may be observed flying assessments overhead. Generally prefers open grasslands and hay fields. In migration and 1 round of Fall general Bobolink Species and General MNRF Regional None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large THR in winter uses freshwater marshes and grasslands (MNRF Guelph - wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) Habitat Protection List grasslands >50ha) occurs within study area. Waterloo List, 2014) assessments

Generally prefers wet coniferous, deciduous and mixed forest 1 round of Fall general Canada Warbler types, with a dense shrub layer. Nests on the ground, on logs or Moderate - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. cedar SC N/A Ebird wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Cardellina canadensis) hummocks, and uses dense shrub layer to conceal the nest swamp) occurs within study area. assessments (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014)

Generally found in mature deciduous forests with an open None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. >100ha 1 round of Fall general Cerulean Warbler Species and General MNRF Regional THR understory; also nests in older, second-growth deciduous forests mature deciduous forests with an open wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Setophaga cerulea) Habitat Protection List (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) understory) occurs within study area. assessments

High - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. chimneys) Historically found in deciduous and coniferous, usually wet forest occurs adjacent to study area; therefore, this 1 round of Fall general Chimney Swift Species and General types, all with a well-developed, dense shrub layer; now most are THR Ebird species may be observed flying overhead. This wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Chaetura pelagica) Habitat Protection found in urban areas in large uncapped chimneys (MNRF Guelph - species was confirmed in the vicinity of the study assessments Waterloo List, 2014) area in 2011 (NRSI and Dougan & Associates).

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 Appendix C. SAR Screening Table Page C-1 Appendix C. SAR Screening Table

ESA Status1 and Source of Reasonable Likelihood of Presence in Results of Field Species Regional ESA Protection2 Key Habitats Used by Species in Ontario Surveys Undertaken Record (Date) Study Area Surveys Occurrence Generally prefer open, vegetation-free habitats, including dunes, beaches, recently harvested forests, burnt-over areas, logged Moderate - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. sand 1 round of Fall general Common Nighthawk areas, rocky outcrops, rocky barrens, grasslands, pastures, peat SC N/A Ebird dunes, meadows with barren ground, flat roofs) wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Chordeiles minor) bogs, marshes, lakeshores, and river banks. This species also occurs within and adjacent to study area. assessments inhabits mixed and coniferous forests. Can also be found in urban areas (nest on flat roof-tops) (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) Generally prefers grassy pastures, meadows and hay fields. Nests 1 round of Fall general Eastern Meadowlark Species and General MNRF Regional Moderate - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. >5ha THR are always on the ground and usually hidden in or under grass wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Sturnella magna) Habitat Protection List meadow) occurs within study area. clumps (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) assessments

Moderate - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. sand barren, pine plantation, young aspen forest) Generally prefer semi-open deciduous forests or patchy forests occurs within study area. This species is area- 1 round of Fall general Eastern Whip-poor-will Species and General MNRF Regional with clearings; areas with little ground cover are also preferred; In THR sensitive and typically occupies areas with wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Caprimulgus vociferus) Habitat Protection List winter they occupy primarily mixed woods near open areas >100ha of suitable forest habitat; there is assessments (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) >100ha of forest/plantation habitat surrounding the study area.

Associated with deciduous and mixed forests. Within mature and High - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. deciduous 1 round of Fall general Eastern Wood-pewee intermediate age stands it prefers areas with little understory and mixed forest) occurs within study area. This SC N/A Ebird wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Contopus virens) vegetation as well as forest clearings and edges (MNRF Guelph - species was confirmed in the study area in 2011 assessments Waterloo List, 2014) (NRSI and Dougan & Associates).

Generally prefer areas of early successional vegetation, found 1 round of Fall general Golden-winged Warbler Moderate - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. early SC N/A Ebird primarily on field edges, hydro or utility right-of-ways, or recently wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Vermivora chrysoptera) successional) occurs within study area. logged areas (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) assessments

High - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large Medium to large grasslands with grasses of intermediate height in grasslands >10ha with patches of bare ground) 1 round of Fall general Grasshopper Sparrow SC N/A Ebird both native and tame grasslands including agricultural fields and occurs within study area. This species was wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Ammodramus savannarum) cattle pastures (COSEWIC 2013b) confirmed in the study area in 2011 (NRSI and assessments Dougan & Associates).

None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large, Generally found in old fields, pastures and wet meadows. They 1 round of Fall general Henslow's Sparrow Species and General MNRF Regional wet to moist, grasslands >40ha) occurs within END prefer areas with dense, tall grasses, and thatch, or decaying plant wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Ammodramus henslowii) Habitat Protection List; NHIC (1960) study area and this species is very rare (<25 material (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) assessments breeding individuals in Ontario/Quebec).

Nests in small ponds, marshes and shallow bays that contain Minimal - limited potential suitable breeding 1 round of Fall general Horned Grebe SC N/A Ebird areas of open water and emergent vegetation. (MNRF Species habitat (i.e. small SWM pond <0.2ha) occurs wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Podiceps auritus) Profile Online 2015) within study area. assessments Generally this species requires large marshes with open shallow 1 round of Fall general King Rail Species and General MNRF Regional None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large END water that merges with shrubby areas (MNRF Guelph - Hamilton wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Rallus elegans) Habitat Protection List marsh) occurs within study area. List, 2013) assessments

Generally located near pools of open water in relatively large 1 round of Fall general Least Bittern Species and General MNRF Regional None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large THR marshes and swamps that are dominated by cattail and other wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Ixobrychus exilis) Habitat Protection List marsh/swamp) occurs within study area. robust emergent plants (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) assessments

Generally prefer a combination of pasture or other grassland with 1 round of Fall general Loggerhead Shrike Species and General MNRF Regional None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e.large END scattered low trees and shrubs. They build their nests in small wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Lanius ludovicianus) Habitat Protection List shrubland >50ha) occurs within study area. trees or shrubs (MNRF Guelph - Wellington List, 2015). assessments

Generally inhabits mature forests along steeply sloped ravines None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. medium 1 round of Fall general Louisiana Waterthrush MNRF Regional SC N/A adjacent to running water. It prefers clear, cold streams and to high-gradient, closed-canopy, perrenial wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Parkesia motacilla) List densely wooded swamps (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) streams) occurs within study area. assessments McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 Appendix C. SAR Screening Table Page C-2 Appendix C. SAR Screening Table

None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. Generally prefers natural forest edges and openings adjacent to coniferous or mixed forest edges along river or 1 round of Fall general Olive-sided Flycatcher rivers or wetlands. Commonly nest in conifers such as White and SC N/A Ebird wetlands) occurs within study area. Suitable wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Contopus cooperi) Black Spruce, Jack Pine and Balsam Fir. (MNRF Guelph - breeding habitat may occur within Lover's Creek assessments Wellington List, 2015) PSW which occurs beyond the study area.

Generally nest on tall, steep cliff ledges adjacent to large None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. steep Peregrine Falcon anatum/tundrius 1 round of Fall general MNRF Regional waterbodies; some birds adapt to urban environments and nest on cliffs or tall buildings) occurs within study area; (Falco peregrinus SC N/A wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations List ledges of tall buildings, even in densely populated downtown however, this species may be observed flying anatum/tundrius) assessments areas (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) overhead.

Piping Plover 1 round of Fall general Species and General MNRF Regional Nest exclusively on dry sandy or gravelly beaches just above the None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. sandy (Charadrius melodus END wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations Habitat Protection List high water and waves. (MNRF Species Profile Online 2014) or gravelly beaches) occurs within study area. circumcinctus ) assessments Generally prefer open oak and beech forests, grasslands, forest Moderate - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large 1 round of Fall general Red-headed Woodpecker MNRF Regional edges, orchards, pastures, riparian forests, roadsides, urban SC N/A diameter cavity trees in open habitats) occurs wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) List parks, golf courses, cemeteries, as well as along beaver ponds within study area. assessments and brooks (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014)

Generally prefers a wide variety of open habitats, including None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. large 1 round of Fall general Short-eared Owl grasslands, peat bogs, marshes, sand-sage concentrations, old SC N/A Ebird expanses of open habitats >75ha) occurs within wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Asio flammeus) pastures and agricultural fields (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, study area. assessments 2014) High - suitable breeding habitat Nests mainly in second-growth and mature deciduous and mixed (deciduous/mixed forest with dense sapling 1 round of Fall general Wood Thrush forests, with saplings and well-developed understory layers. SC N/A Ebird undergrowth) occurs within study area. This wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Hylocichla mustelina) Prefers large forest mosaics, but may also nest in small forest species was confirmed in the study area in 2011 assessments fragments (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) (NRSI and Dougan & Associates).

Deep in the reeds, sedges, and marshes of shallow wetlands, with 1 round of Fall general Yellow Rail MNRF Regional None - no suitable breeeding habitat (i.e. SC N/A an overlying mat of dead vegetation, where they nest on the wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Coturnicops noveboracensis) List wetlands) occurs within study area. ground. (MNRF Species Profile Online 2014) assessments Fish

Freshwater lakes and rivers with soft bottoms of mud, sand or Lake Sturgeon (Great Lakes-Upper Species and General MNRF Regional gravel at depths of five to 20 m. Spawning usually occurs in None - no suitable habitat occurs within study St. Lawrence) THR Fisheries habitat assessment No observations Habitat Protection List shallow, fast flowing water below dams, waterfalls or rapids with area (Acipenser fulvescens) gravel and boulders (MNRF Species Profile Online 2014).

Generally inhabits small rivers and clear streams of varying sizes. Minimal - limited suitable habitat within study Northern Brook Lamprey MNRF Regional SC N/A Adults spawn in gravelly riffles (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, area (insufficient wetted depth and width through Fisheries habitat assessment No observations (Ichthyomyzon fossor) List 2014) much of the year; barriers to migration)

Insects

Hine’s Emerald lives in groundwater-fed wetlands with grassy None - no suitable breeding habitat (i.e. 1 round of Fall general Hine's Emerald MNRF Regional vegetation. groundwater-fed wetlands) within study area and END wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Somatochlora hineana) List Larvae use crayfish burrows during periods of low water and this species is very rare in Ontario (only known assessments during the winter. (MNRF Species Profile Online 2015) to occur within Minesing Wetlands).

2 Monarchs observed Exist primarily wherever milkweed and wildflowers exist; High - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. milkweed) 1 round of Fall general Monarch Ontario Butterfly within cultural meadow SC N/A abandoned farmland, along roadsides, and other open spaces and foraging habitat (i.e. wildflowers) occurs wildlife surveys/ habitat (Danaus plexippus) Atlas habitat at the south (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) within study area. assessments limits of the study area.

Generally inhabits a range of diverse habitats including mixed None - this species is very rare in Ontario and 1 round of Fall general Rusty-patched Bumble Bee Species and General MNRF Regional farmland, sand dunes, marshes, urban and wooded areas. It END has only been sighted at Pinery Provincial Park wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Bombus affinis) Habitat Protection List usually nests underground in abandoned rodent burrows (MNRF since 2002. assessments Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014)

Mammals Moderate - preferred breeding habitat (i.e. Overwintering habitat: Caves and mines that remain above 0 buildings) occurs within and adjacent to study Little Brown Bat (Little Brown BCI Species Profile 1 round of Fall general Species and General degrees Celsius. Maternal Roosts: Often associated with area. Scattered large diameter trees within Myotis) END Map; Ontario wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations Habitat Protection buildings (attics, barns etc.). Occasionally found in trees (25-44 young mixed/deciduous forest habitat or (Myotis lucifugus) Mammal Atlas assessments cm dbh) (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) hedgerows may also provide potential breeding habitat.

Minimal - limited preferred breeding habitat (i.e. mature mixed/deciduous forest) occurs within Overwintering habitat: Caves and mines that remain above 0 Northern Long-eared Bat (Northern BCI Species Profile and adjacent to study area. Forested habitats in 1 round of Fall general Species and General degrees Celsius. Maternal Roosts: Often associated with cavities Myotis) END Map; Ontario study area are largely comprised of small, young wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations Habitat Protection of large diameter trees (25-44 cm dbh). Occasionally found in (Myotis septentrionalis) Mammal Atlas trees <25cm dbh with scattered large diameter assessments structures (attics, barns etc.)(MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) trees and many areas of dense understory.This species is often associated with boreal forests.

Overwintering habitat: Caves and mines that remain above 0 degrees Celsius. Maternal Roosts: primarily under loose rocks on None - no preferred breeding habitat (rock 1 round of Fall general Small-footed Bat Species and General BCI Species Profile END exposed rock outcrops, crevices and cliffs, and occasionally in outcrops/rocky terrain) occurs within study area. wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Myotis leibii) Habitat Protection Map buildings, under bridges and highway overpasses and under tree This species occurs in rocky landscapes. assessments bark (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014)

Overwintering habitat: Caves and mines that remain above 0 Minimal - suitable breeding habitat (i.e. mixed 1 round of Fall general Tri-colored Bat Species and General BCI Species Profile degrees Celsius. Maternal Roosts: Manmade structures or tree forest and buildings) occurs within and adjacent END wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Perimyotis subflavus) Habitat Protection Map cavities. Foraging over still water, rivers, or in forest gaps to study area; however, this species is rare in assessments (COSEWIC 2013f) Ontario. Plants

Minimal - suitable forest and cultural habitats Generally grows in rich, moist, and well-drained soils often found are present; however, this species is easily along streams. It may also be found on well-drained gravel sites, MNRF Midhurst recognizable and was not found on site during Butternut Species and General especially those made up of limestone. It is also found, though Late summer botanical END District the field survey; Butternut is known to the No observations (Juglans Cinerea) Habitat Protection seldomly, on dry, rocky and sterile soils. In Ontario, the Butternut inventory Correspondence general vicinity and was recorded on the Barrie generally grows alone or in small groups in deciduous forests as Annexed lands beyond the current study area by well as in hedgerows (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014). NRSI (2012).

Grows on calcareous rocks in deep shade on slopes in deciduous None - some maple-beech forest present, but forest. Most Ontario occurrences are in maple-beech forest. without ideal substrate conditions (i.e., no rocky American Hart's-tongue Fern MNRF Regional Established plants can grow in exposed, rocky crevices and on Late summer botanical SC N/A crevices or outcrops, limited moss cover); this No observations (asplenium scolopendrium) List outcrops, but moist, mossy areas seem to be essential for spore inventory species is only known to portions of Simcoe germination and early plant development (MNRF Species Profile County in proximity to the Niagara Escarpment. Online 2014).

Minimal - suitable maple-beech forest habitat is present northeast of McKay Road bridge near Broad Beech Fern MNRF Regional Generally inhabits shady areas of beech and maple forests where Late summer botanical SC N/A the boundary of the study area, and extending No observations (phegopteris hexagonoptera) List the soil is moist or wet (MNRF Guelph - Hamitlon List, 2013). inventory further east; no recent records are known to the county of Simcoe (historical presence only).

Minimal - swamp habitat is present in the study area and beyond, associated with the Lover's Species Protection Grows in wetlands, fens, swamps and tallgrass prairie. It has been Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid MNRF Regional Creek Swamp PSW; however, there are no fens Late summer botanical END and Habitat found in ditches and railroad rights of way MNRF Species Profile No observations (platanthera leucophaea) List or tallgrass prairie habitats available in the inventory Regulation Online 2014). vicinity; nearby known records are limited to the Minesing Swamp, west of Barrie.

Grows on open, bare ground or in sparsely-covered grassy areas, None - disturbed meadow areas within the study often in bare spots between patches of other species of grasses. area are typically densely vegetated with non- The maintenance of this type of habitat requires periodic native species that would outcompete Forked Forked Three-awned Grass Species and General MNRF Regional disturbances, such as fire or drought, to prevent other plants from Three-awned Grass; known records in Simcoe Late summer botanical END No observations (aristida basiramea) Habitat Protection List dominating the area. However, some forms of disturbance County are limited to areas north of Barrie. inventory facilitate the establishment of invasive plant species that can There is some potential for this species to grow outcompete Forked Three-awned Grass (MNRF Species Profile in nearby sand barrens, which are outside of the Online 2014). study area.

In Ontario, Hill’s Thistle is found in open alvar grasslands, surrounded by forests of Jack Pine, White Spruce, and Eastern None - No suitable habitat (i.e., alvar, exposed White Cedar. Alvars are flat areas of limestone bedrock with very bedrock, or shallow soils with scattered trees) is Hill's Thistle Species and General MNRF Regional shallow soil and vegetation consisting of scattered trees, shrubs Late summer botanical THR present in the study area; known records are No observations (cirsium hillii) Habitat Protection List and grasses. This sun-loving thistle is also found in prairie and inventory generally limited to Bruce Peninsula, Manitoulin sand dunes. These are all rare habitats in Ontario, characterized Island, and Georgian Bay. by open and sunny conditions (MNRF Species Profile Online 2014).

Minimal - suitable mixed forest habitat (pine, maple, oak) is present along the south side of Generally grows in sandy habitats in dry-mesic oak-pine woods. Spotted Wintergreen Species and General MNRF Regional Salem Road west of Highway 400; however, Late summer botanical END In Canada, they grow very close to the Great Lakes (MNRF No observations (chimaphila maculata) Habitat Protection List there are no known records in the vicinity, and inventory Guelph - Hamilton List, 2013). no recent records are known to the county of Simcoe (historical presence only). Reptiles

Generally occur in freshwater lakes, permanent or temporary Moderate - no suitable aquatic habitat (i.e. pools, slow-flowing streams, marshes and swamps. They prefer heavily vegetated wetlands with no to slow flow) shallow water that is rich in nutrients, organic soil and dense occurs within study area; however, suitable vegetation. Adults are generally found in open or partially habitat occurs beyond the study area within the 1 round of Fall general Blanding's Turtle Species and General MNRF Regional vegetated sites, and juveniles prefer areas that contain thick THR Lover's Creek PSW. Therefore, there is some wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Emydoidea blandingii) Habitat Protection List aquatic vegetation including sphagnum, water lilies and algae. limited potential for this species to wander into assessments They dig their nest in a variety of loose substrates, including sand, the study area during long terrestrial forays and organic soil, gravel and cobblestone. Overwintering occurs in to potentially nest along the road shoulders, or in permanent pools that average about one metre in depth, or in slow- open fields within the study area. flowing streams (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014)

Generally prefer habitats with sandy, well-drained soil and open Moderate - suitable habitat (>5ha complex of 1 round of Fall general Eastern Hog-nosed Snake Species and General vegetative cover, such as open woods, burshland, fields, forest THR Ontario Herp Atlas sandy upland meadows, plantation, forest wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Heterodon platirhinos) Habitat Protection edges and disturbed sites. The species is often found near water edges) occurs within study area. assessments (MNRF Guelph - Hamilton List, 2013) McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 Appendix C. SAR Screening Table Page C-5 Appendix C. SAR Screening Table

ESA Status1 and Source of Reasonable Likelihood of Presence in Results of Field Species Regional ESA Protection2 Key Habitats Used by Species in Ontario Surveys Undertaken Record (Date) Study Area Surveys Occurrence Generally occur along the edges of shallow ponds, streams, Eastern Ribbonsnake (aka. marshes, swamps, or bogs bordered by dense vegetation that Moderate - suitable habitat (swamp, dense 1 round of Fall general Northern Ribbonsnake) MNRF Regional SC N/A provides cover. Abundant exposure to sunlight is also required, riparian vegetation along ephemeral stream) wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Thamnophis sauritus List and adjacent upland areas may be used for nesting (MNRF occurs within study area. assessments septentrionalis) Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014)

Moderate - suitable habitat (i.e. open sandy Species Protection Generally occur near dunes, fields, and deciduous forests. This 1 round of Fall general Five-lined Skink (Carolinian) MNRF Regional meadows, sand dunes, small pockets of open END and Habitat species in generally associated with relatively open environments. wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Eumeces fasciatus) List deciduous forest) occurs within study area. Regulation (MNRF Guelph - Haldimand List 2015). assessments Recent records in Barrie area.

Pregnant females most often found in open, dry habitats such as rock barrens or forest clearings. Other females and males found in None - no suitable hibernaton habitat (i.e. Massasauga (Great 1 round of Fall general Species and General MNRF Regional lowland habitats such as grasslands, wetlands, bogs, and sphagnum-dominated wetlands) or gestation Lakes/St.Lawrence) THR wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations Habitat Protection List shorelines of lakes and rivers. Hibernation is underground in habiat (i.e. rock barrens) occurs within study (Sistrurus catenatus) assessments crevices in bedrock, sphagnum swamps, tree root cavities and area. animal burrows (MNRF Species Profile Online 2014).

Found in ponds, lakes, marshes and rivers that are generally slow- None - limited potential habitat (i.e. SWM pond) moving, have abundant emergent vegetation, and muddy bottoms. occurs within study area. This species is rare in 1 round of Fall general Stinkpot (Eastern Musk Turtle) MNRF Regional SC N/A Nesting is in soil, decaying vegetation and rotting wood close to southern Ontario and does not make long wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Sternotherus odoratus) List the water and exposed to direct sunlight (MNRF Species Profile terretrial forays, so it is unlikely to occur within assessments Online 2014). study area.

Generally inhabits both lakes and rivers, showing a preference for slow moving currents, muddy bottoms, and abundant aquatic 1 round of Fall general Northern Map Turtle MNRF Regional None - no suitable aquatic habitat (i.e. large SC N/A vegetation. These turtles need suitable basking sites (such as wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Graptemys geographica) List waterbodies) occurs within study area. rocks and logs) and exposure to the sun for at least part of the day assessments (MNRF Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014)

Moderate - limited potential aquatic habitat (i.e. SWM pond) occurs within study area. Generally inhabit shallow waters where they can hide under the MNRF Midhurst Furthermore, suitable habitat occurs beyond the soft mud and leaf litter. Nesting sites usually occur on gravely or District study area within the Lover's Creek PSW. 1 round of Fall general Snapping Turtle sandy areas along streams. Snapping Turtles often take SC N/A Correspondence; Therefore, there is some potential for this wildlife surveys/ habitat No observations (Chelydra serpentina) advantage of man-made structures for nest sites, including roads MNRF Regional species to wander into the study area during assessments (especially gravel shoulders), dams and aggregate pits (MNRF List long terrestrial forays and to potentially nest Guelph - Waterloo List, 2014) along the road shoulders, or in open fields within the study area.

Sources: 1ESA (Endangered Species Act) Status (provincial status from MNRF May 2014) 2ESA (Endangered Species Act) Protection (provincial status from MNRF May 2014)

Unit # / Species of Conservation Concern General Description Vegetation Overview ELC Community Type (SCC) and Other Sensitivities Canopy / Sub-canopy (>60%): Characterized by a mix of common species including abundant Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides) and Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris) with occasional American Elm (Ulmus americana), Green Ash (Fraxinus pensylvanica), Northern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis) and Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum var. saccharum). Amethyst Aster (Symphyotrichum x Unit 1, 8, 9, 18 amethystinum) (Unit 1) is ranked Several patches of cultural Understory: Cover in the understory is variable throughout the patches of cultural woodland. Typical species present include Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina), Common Juniper S3? in Ontario CUW1: Mineral Cultural Woodland woodland are present (Juniperus communis), honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.), Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), Choke Cherry (Prunus virginiana var. virginiana) and Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia). throughout the study area. Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima) Ground Cover: Ground cover species are generally contiguous with adjacent meadow / roadside communities, characterized by species such as Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis ssp. (Unit 9) is ranked R-4 in Simcoe inermis), Tufted Vetch (Vicia cracca), Virginia Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana ssp. virginiana), Rough Bedstraw (Galium asprellum), goldenrods (Solidago spp.) and asters County. (Symphyotrichum spp.).

Canopy & Understory (>60%): Abundant Red Maple (Acer rubrum) and Northern White Cedar, as well as occasional American Elm, Green Ash, and American Basswood, as well as Young to mid-aged treed swamp several other common deciduous species. Wetland feature with mature tree Unit 2 located northeast of McKay component (scattered trees over Road bridge. Understory: Limited to regenerating tree species, including occasional Northern White Cedar, American Elm, and Green Ash. 50cm dbh). SWM4-1: White Cedar – Hardwood Organic Mixed Swamp Characterized by hummocky Ground Cover (>60%): Characterized by a variety of common wetland species including Field Horsetail (Equisetum arvense), Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis), Purple-stemmed Contiguous with the Lover’s Creek topography. Aster (Symphyotrichum puniceum var. puniceum), Spotted Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), Fowl Manna Grass (Glyceria striata), Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. Swamp PSW. lateriflorum), Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris).

Wetland feature associated with the Canopy / Sub-canopy (25-60%): Abundant Red Maple with occasional American Elm and scattered American Basswood, Yellow Birch (Betula alleghaniensis), and Green Ash. Lover’s Creek Swamp PSW. Unit 3 Mid-aged treed swamp located Understory: Includes regeneration of common tree species such as Green Ash and American Basswood. SWD6-1: Red Maple Organic northeast of McKay Road Evidence of groundwater influx Deciduous Swamp bridge. Ground Cover (>60%): Similar composition to Unit 2, including abundant Sensitive Fern with occasional Spotted Jewelweed, Field Horsetail, Calico Aster, Purple-stemmed Aster, (watercress). Panicled Aster (Symphyotrichum lanceolatum ssp. lanceolatum) and watercress (Nasturtium sp). White-tailed Deer browse observed.

Canopy & Understory (>60): Abundant Sugar Maple with Northern White Cedar, Large-tooth Aspen (Populus grandidentata), Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris), White Ash (Fraxinus americanus), Red Maple, American Basswood, American Beech (Fagus grandifolia), and Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis). Unit 4 Young forest located on valley Understory: Includes occasional Choke Cherry and Staghorn Sumac, with Buckthorn and regeneration of numerous tree species. FOM7-1: Fresh-Moist White Cedar slope northeast of McKay Road Forest feature. – Sugar Maple Mixed Forest bridge. Ground Cover (10-25%): Limited cover through majority of forest due to dense shade from cedar and other woody vegetation. Species include occasional Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides) and Heart-leaved Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium), with Wild-lily-of-the-valley (Maianthemum canadense), Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) and Field Horsetail also present.

Young wetland feature located Unit 5 at the base of the Highway 400 Mosaic of: embankment slope, northeast of Canopy / Sub-canopy (<10%): Limited to a few young American Elm, Northern White Cedar, and Balsam Fir (Abies balsamifera). McKay Road bridge. MAS3-1: Cattail Organic Shallow Wetland feature. Understory (<10%): Includes various willows (Salix spp.) and Red-osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea). Marsh Portions are contiguous with the Ground Cover (>60): The ground cover is characterized by a mix of Blue Cattail (Typha x glauca) and common forbs such as abundant Common Reed (Phragmites australis) and a with Lover’s Creek Swamp PSW. patch of Narrow-leaved Cattail (Typha angustifolia). Several other common wetland and roadside / edge species are also present. MAM3-9: Forb Organic Meadow

Marsh

D1-1 McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 Appendix D1: Vegetation Communities Table

Unit # / Species of Conservation Concern General Description Vegetation Overview ELC Community Type (SCC) and Other Sensitivities

Young wetland feature located Canopy / Sub-canopy: N/A at the base of the Highway 400 Wetland feature. Unit 6, 10 Understory (10-25%): Occasional Pussy Willow (Salix discolor) with Meadow Willow (Salix petiolaris), Bebb’s Willow (Salix bebbii), and Grey Dogwood (Cornus racemosa) also embankment slope, northeast of Gray Dogwood (Cornus racemosa) MAS2-1: Cattail Mineral Shallow present. McKay Road bridge (Unit 6), and (Unit 10) is ranked R-2 in Simcoe Marsh in a SWM pond southeast of the Ground Cover (>60%): Dominated by Narrow-leaved Cattail (Typha angustifolia) with other common wetland species such as Purple-stemmed Aster, Spotted Jewelweed, Calico County bridge (Unit 10). Aster Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and Flat-top Fragrant Goldenrod (Euthamia graminifolia).

Canopy & Understory (>60%): Dominated by American Elm with occasional Green Ash. Unit 7 Young to mid-aged forest located in low-lying area Understory (10-25%): Includes occasional honeysuckle and Black Raspberry (Rubus occidentalis), as well as some young tree regeneration. Forest feature. FOD7-1: Fresh-Moist White Elm northeast of McKay Road Ground Cover (>60%): Includes abundant moss and Field Horsetail as well as occasional Virginia Strawberry, Yellow Avens (Geum aleppicum), and Heart-leaved Foam-flower Lowland Deciduous Forest bridge. (Tiarella cordifolia).

Canopy / Sub-canopy (<10%): Limited to few young Canada Poplar (Populus x canadensis), Fire Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica), and Scotch Pine. Tall Goldenrod (Unit 11 & 19) is Unit 11, 12, 19, 23 Pioneer vegetation in disturbed Understory (<10%): Includes some Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina var. dissecta) and hawthorn (Crataegus sp.). ranked R-4 in Simcoe County. and/or roadside habitats. CUM1-1: Dry-Moist Old Field Ground Cover (>60%): Characterized by a common suite of old field / roadside grasses and forbs including Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis), Canada Bluegrass White Heath Aster (Symphyotrichum Meadow (Poa compressa), Smooth Brome, Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), Tufted Vetch (Vicia cracca), Arrow-leaved Aster (Symphyotrichum urophyllum), and Bracken Fern ericoides var. ericoides) (Unit 12) is (Pteridium aquilinum var. latiusculum). ranked R-2 in Simcoe County.

Young to mid-aged upland forest Canopy & Understory (>60%): Abundant Sugar Maple and Red Oak with occasional American Elm, Paper Birch, Quaking Aspen, White Ash and Eastern Hop-hornbeam (Ostrya Forest feature with mature tree Unit 13, 24 habitat present both northwest of virginiana), and scattered other common tree species. component (scattered trees over McKay Road bridge and north of FOD5-3: Dry – Fresh Sugar Maple Understory (10-25%): Occasional Alternate-leaved Dogwood and Choke Cherry. 50cm dbh – Unit 13, northwest of Salem Road west of Highway - Oak Deciduous Forest McKay Road bridge). 400. Ground Cover (10-60%): Common woodland and edge species are present, such as occasional Bracken Fern, Field Horsetail and young seedlings of regenerating tree species.

Unit 14 Mid-aged wetland feature SWC3-1: White Cedar Organic located northwest of McKay Canopy & Understory (25-60%): Dominated by Northern White Cedar with some Yellow Birch and White Spruce also present. Coniferous Swamp Road bridge. Understory (<10%): Scattered Alternate-leaf Dogwood and regenerating tree species. Wetland feature associated with the Lover’s Creek Swamp PSW. with inclusion of: Small shallow aquatic inclusion Ground Cover (10-25%): Occational Sensitive Fern, Spotted Jewelweed, Field Horsetail, Purple-stemmed Aster, Ostrich Fern and Nodding Beggar’s Ticks (Bidens cernua) with is located just beyond study area SAF1-3: Duckweed Floating- scattered common wetland and woodland species. Small pond feature is vegetated with Lesser Duckweed (Lemna minor). limit. leaved Shallow Aquatic

Canopy / Sub-canopy (>60%): Dominated by Scotch Pine with varying representation of other species including White Pine, American Elm, Quaking Aspen, Austrian Pine (Pinus nigra), and Black Cherry (Prunus serotina). Tall Cinqufoil (Potentilla arguta) Unit 15, 17, 21 Several Scotch Pine plantations (Unit 17) is ranked R-5 in Simcoe Understory (<10%): Scattered Wild Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus ssp. strigosus), honeysuckle, Buckthorn, hawthorn, Riverbank Grape and Thicket Creeper (Parthenocissus are present in various locations County CUP3-3: Scotch Pine Coniferous vitacea). Plantation throughout the study area. Tall Goldenrod (Unit 21) is ranked Ground Cover (10-60%): Ground cover species include occasional Arrow-leaved Aster, Virginia Strawberry, Canada Goldenrod, Calico Aster, Herb-robert (Geranium robertianium), R-4 in Simcoe County. Common Plantain (Plantago major) and Enchanter’s Nightshade (Circaea lutetiana ssp. canadensis).

D1-2 McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 Appendix D1: Vegetation Communities Table

Unit # / Species of Conservation Concern General Description Vegetation Overview ELC Community Type (SCC) and Other Sensitivities Canopy & Understory (>60%): Abundant Sugar Maple with occasional Box Elder and some young Black Cherry. Unit 16 Young forest habitat located Forest feature with mature tree Understory (25-60%): Abundant Wild Red Raspberry with occasional Riverbank Grape. FOD5-1: Dry – Fresh Sugar Maple southwest of McKay Road component (scattered trees over Deciduous Forest bridge. Ground Cover (10-25%): Common woodland and edge species are present, such as occasional Orange-fruit Horse-gentian (Triosteum aurantiacum), Christmas Fern (Polystichum 50cm dbh). acrostichoides), Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris), sedges (Carex spp.), Yellow Avens, and Virginia Strawberry.

Canopy & Understory (>60%): Abundant Red Oak and Large-tooth Aspen with occasional American Beech and American Elm. Scattered Sugar Maple, White Ash, Black Cherry, Unit 20 Mid-aged upland forest located American Hop-hornbeam, White Spruce and Paper Birch are also present. south of Lockhart Road, east of Forest feature. FOD2-4: Dry – Fresh Oak – Understory: Occasional Choke Cherry and young white Ash. Hardwood Deciduous Forest Type Highway 400. Ground Cover: Occasional Bracken Fern and sedges (Carex spp.).

Canopy / Sub-canopy (<10%): Limited to scattered young Red Oak, Box Elder, White Ash, Quaking Aspen and Scotch Pine. Several cultural thickets are Understory (25-60%): Abundant Fire Cherry with occasional Choke Cherry, Staghorn Sumac and scattered young Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), Common Apple (Malus Unit 22, 23, 26 Tall Goldenrod (Unit 22) is ranked present in various locations pumila), and Wild Red Raspberry. R-4 in Simcoe County. CUT1: Mineral Cultural Thicket throughout the study area. Ground Cover (>60%): Ground cover species include abundant Canada Goldenrod, Smooth Brome,l Arrow-leaved Aster, and Kentucky Bluegrass with occasional Field Goldenrod (Solidago nemoralis var. nemoralis), Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus Carota), and Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta).

Large area characterized by Unit 25 Canopy / Sub-canopy (>60%): Characterized by planted Scotch Pine and Norway Spruce with abundant Green Ash (Fraxinus pensylvanica) and occasional Sugar Maple (Acer coniferous plantations saccharum var. saccharum) and White Pine (Pinus strobus). Mosaic of: interspersed with deciduous None observed. CUP3: Coniferous Plantation with cultural woodland species. Understory: Includes occasional Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina) and Choke Cherry (Prunus virginiana var. virginiana), as well as young tree species regeneration. Located west of Highway 400, Ground Cover: Includes abundant Canada Goldenrod and occasional Arrow-leaved Aster. CUW1: Mineral Cultural Woodland south of McKay Road.

Canopy / Sub-canopy: N/A Dense monoculture located Unit 27 south of Salem Road, west of Understory (>60%): Dominated by Staghorn Sumac. Highway 400. None observed. CUT1-1: Sumac Cultural Thicket Ground Cover: N/A *Only surveyed from the edge *Only surveyed from the edge – additional common tolerant / roadside species are likely to be present

Canopy & Understory (>60%): Abundant Sugar Maple and White Pine with occasional American Elm, Red Oak and Paper Birch. Unit 28 Young to mid-aged forest habitat Understory: Occasional Alternate-leaved Dogwood, Choke Cherry, and Alleghany Blackberry (Rubus alleghaniensis). FOM2-2: Dry – Fresh White Pine – located south of Salem Road, Forest feature. Ground Cover: Includes occasional Field Horsetail. Sugar Maple Mixed Forest west of Highway 400. *Only surveyed from the edge – additional common tolerant / roadside species are likely to be present

Unit 29 Canopy / Sub-canopy: N/A Small pocket northeast of Wetland feature. MAMM1-12*: Common Reed Understory: N/A McKay Road bridge. Graminoid Mineral Meadow Marsh Ground Cover (>60%): Dense Common Reed monoculture.

D1-3 McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016

Appendix D2: Plant List

3 5

Comon Name Scientific Name cc1 cw1

MNR

OWES OWES

Srank

Grank

Wetland

Simcoe

PlantList COSEWIC Balsam Fir Abies balsamea 5 -3 X G5 S5 X Velvet-leaf Abutilon theophrasti * 4 GNR SNA X Box Elder Acer negundo 0 -2 X G5 S5 X Red Maple Acer rubrum 4 0 X G5 S5 X Sugar Maple Acer saccharum var. saccharum 4 3 G5T5 S5 X Freeman's Maple Acer X freemanii X GNA SNR Common Yarrow Achillea millefolium ssp millefolium * 3 G5T5? SNA X Tall Hairy Agrimony Agrimonia gryposepala 2 2 G5 S5 X CreepiBentgrass Agrostis stolonifera 0 -3 X G5 S5 X Annual Ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia 0 3 G5 S5 X Downy Serviceberry Amelanchier arborea 5 3 G5 S5 X Scarlet Pimpernel Anagallis arvensis * 4 GNR SNA X Canada Anemone Anemone canadensis 3 -3 X G5 S5 X Long-fruited Anemone Anemone cylindrica 7 5 G5 S4 X Corn Camomile Anthemis arvensis * 5 GNR SNA X Spreading Dogbane Apocynum androsaemifolium ssp androsaemifolium 3 5 G5 S5 X Lesser Burdock Arctium minus * 5 GNR SNA X Common Milkweed Asclepias syriaca 0 5 G5 S5 X Lady-fern Athyrium filix-femina ssp. angustum X G5T5 S5 X Yellow Birch Betula alleghaniensis 6 0 X G5 S5 X Paper Birch Betula papyrifera 2 2 X G5 S5 X Nodding Beggar's Ticks Bidens cernua 2 -5 X G5 S5 Bird's Rape Brassica rapa * 5 GNR SNA X Awnless Brome Bromus inermis ssp inermis * 5 GNR SNA X Lake-bank Sedge Carex lacustris 5 -5 X G5 S5 X Longstalk Sedge Carex pedunculata 5 5 G5 S5 X Pennsylvania Sedge Carex pensylvanica 5 5 G5 S5 X Sedge Species Carex sp. Stalk-grain Sedge Carex stipata 3 -5 X G5 S5 X Beaked Sedge Carex utriculata 7 -5 X G5 S5 X White Goosefoot Chenopodium album var album G5TNR SNA X Chicory Cichorium intybus * 5 GNR SNA X Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea lutetiana ssp canadensis 3 3 G5T5 S5 X Creeping Thistle (Canada Thistle) Cirsium arvense * 3 GNR SNA X Bull Thistle Cirsium vulgare * 4 GNR SNA X Field Basil Clinopodium vulgare 4 5 G5 S5 X Field Bindweed Convolvulus arvensis * 5 GNR SNA X Alternate-leaf Dogwood Cornus alternifolia 6 5 G5 S5 X Gray Dogwood Cornus racemosa 2 -2 X G5? S5 R-2

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-1

Appendix D2: Plant List

3 5

Comon Name Scientific Name cc1 cw1

MNR

OWES OWES

Srank

Grank

Wetland

Simcoe

PlantList COSEWIC Red-osier Dogwood Cornus sericea 2 -3 X G5 S5 X Crown-vetch Coronilla varia * 5 GNR SNA X Hawthorn Species Crataegus sp. European Swallow-wort Cynanchum rossicum * 5 GNR SNA X Orchard Grass Dactylis glomerata * 3 GNR SNA X Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota * 5 GNR SNA X Marginal Wood Fern Dryopteris marginalis 5 3 G5 S5 X Common Viper's-bugloss Echium vulgare * 5 GNR SNA X Beechdrops Epifagus virginiana 6 5 G5 S5 X Hairy Willow-herb Epilobium ciliatum ssp ciliatum X G5T5 S5 Eastern Helleborine Epipactis helleborine * 5 GNRS SNA X Field Horsetail Equisetum arvense 0 0 X G5 S5 X Rough Horsetail Equisetum hyemale var. affine 2 -2 X G5T5 S5 X White-top Fleabane Erigeron annuus 0 1 G5 S5 X Common Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum 2 -4 X G5 S5 X Cypress Spurge Euphorbia cyparissias * 5 G5 SNA X Large-leaf Wood-aster Eurybia macrophylla 5 5 G5 S5 X Flat-top Fragrant Goldenrod Euthamia graminifolia 2 -2 G5 S5 X American Beech Fagus grandifolia 6 3 G5 S4 X Fescue Species Festuca sp. Virginia Strawberry Fragaria virginiana ssp virginiana 2 1 G5T5 SU X White Ash Fraxinus americana 4 3 G5 S5 X Green Ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica 3 -3 X G5 S5 X Rough Bedstraw Galium asprellum 6 -5 X G5 S5 X Herb-robert Geranium robertianum * 5 G5 SNA X Yellow Avens Geum aleppicum 2 -1 X G5 S5 X White Avens Geum canadense 3 0 X G5 S5 X Fowl Manna Grass Glyceria striata 3 -5 X G5 S5 X Oak Fern Gymnocarpium dryopteris 7 0 X G5 S5 X Sunflower Species Helianthus sp. Rough Hawkweed Hieracium sp. St. John's-wort Hypericum perforatum * 5 GNR SNA X Spotted Jewelweed Impatiens capensis 4 -3 X G5 S5 X German Iris Iris germanica * 5 GNR SNA X Ground Juniper Juniperus communis 4 3 G5 S5 Eastern Red Cedar Juniperus virginiana 4 3 G5 S5 X Prickly Lettuce Lactuca serriola * 0 GNR SNA X Perennial Pea Lathyrus latifolius * 5 GNR SNA X Lesser Duckweed Lemna minor 2 -5 X G5 S5 X

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-2

Appendix D2: Plant List

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Comon Name Scientific Name cc1 cw1

MNR

OWES OWES

Srank

Grank

Wetland

Simcoe

PlantList COSEWIC Common Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca ssp. cardiaca * 5 GNRTNR SNA X Oxeye Daisy Leucanthemum vulgare * 5 GNR SNA X Butter-and-eggs Linaria vulgaris * 5 GNR SNA X American Fly-honeysuckle Lonicera canadensis 6 3 G5 S5 X Honeysuckle Species Lonicera sp. Garden Bird's-foot-trefoil Lotus corniculatus * GNR SNA X American Bugleweed Lycopus americanus 4 -5 X G5 S5 X Northern Bugleweed Lycopus uniflorus 5 -5 X G5 S5 X Creeping Jenny Lysimachia nummularia * -4 GNR SNA X Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicaria * -5 X G5 SNA X Wild-lily-of-the-valley Maianthemum canadense 5 0 G5 S5 X False Solomon's Seal Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemosum 4 3 G5T5 S5 X Starflower False Solomon's Seal Maianthemum stellatum 6 1 G5 S5 X Common Apple Malus pumila * 5 G5 SNA X Apple Species Malus sp. Ostrich Fern Matteuccia struthiopteris 5 -3 X G5 S5 X Black Medic Medicago lupulina * 1 GNR SNA X Alfalfa Medicago sativa ssp sativa * GNRTNR SNA X White Sweet Clover Melilotus albus * 3 GNR SNA X Wild Mint Mentha arvensis 3 -3 X G5 S5 X Wild Bergamot Monarda fistulosa 6 3 G5 S5 X Watercress Species Nasturtium sp. Common Evening-primrose Oenothera biennis 0 3 G5 S5 X Sensitive Fern Onoclea sensibilis 4 -3 X G5 S5 X Royal Fern Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis 7 -5 X G5T5 S5 X Eastern Hop-hornbeam Ostrya virginiana 4 4 G5 S5 X Upright Yellow Wood Sorrel Oxalis stricta 0 3 G5 S5 X Panic Grass Species Panicum sp Thicket Creeper Parthenocissus vitacea 3 3 G5 S5 X Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea 0 -4 X G5 S5 X Meadow Timothy Phleum pratense * 3 GNR SNA X European Reed Grass Phragmites australis ssp. australis * -4 X GNR SNR X Norway Spruce Picea abies * 5 G5 SNA White Spruce Picea glauca 6 3 X G5 S5 X Austrian Pine Pinus nigra * -5 GNR SNA Eastern White Pine Pinus strobus 4 3 X G5 S5 X Scotch Pine Pinus sylvestris * 5 GNR SNA X English Plantain Plantago lanceolata * 0 G5 SNA X Common Plantain Plantago major * -1 G5 S5 X

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-3

Appendix D2: Plant List

3 5

Comon Name Scientific Name cc1 cw1

MNR

OWES OWES

Srank

Grank

Wetland

Simcoe

PlantList COSEWIC Canada Bluegrass Poa compressa 0 2 GNR SNA X Kentucky Bluegrass Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis * 1 G5T5 S5 X White Poplar Populus alba * 5 G5 SNA X Large-tooth Aspen Populus grandidentata 5 3 G5 S5 X Quaking Aspen Populus tremuloides 2 0 G5 S5 X Canada Poplar Populus x canadensis GNA SNA X Tall Cinquefoil Potentilla arguta 7 4 G5 S4 R-5 Sulphur Cinquefoil Potentilla recta * 5 GNR SNA X Self-heal Prunella vulgaris ssp. lanceolata 5 5 X G5T5 S5 Fire Cherry Prunus pensylvanica 3 4 G5 S5 X Wild Black Cherry Prunus serotina 3 3 G5 S5 X Cherry Species Prunus sp. Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana var. virginiana 2 1 G5T5 S5 X Bracken Fern Pteridium aquilinum var latiusculum 2 3 G5T5 S5 X Northern Red Oak Quercus rubra 6 3 G5 S5 X Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica * 3 X GNR SNA X Staghorn Sumac Rhus typhina 1 5 G5 S5 X Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac Rhus typhina var. dissecta * SNA Swamp Red Currant Ribes triste 6 -5 X G5 S5 X Black Locust Robinia pseudoacacia * 4 G5 SNA X Rose Species Rosa sp. Allegheny Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis 2 2 G5 S5 X Wild Red Raspberry Rubus idaeus ssp. strigosus 0 -2 G5T5 S5 X Black Raspberry Rubus occidentalis 2 5 G5 S5 X Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta 0 3 G5 S5 X Curly Dock Rumex crispus * -1 X GNR SNA X White Willow Salix alba * -3 X G5 SNA X Bebb's Willow Salix bebbiana 4 -4 X G5 S5 X Pussy Willow Salix discolor 3 -3 X G5 S5 X Meadow Willow Salix petiolaris 3 -4 X G5 S5 X Bouncing-bet Saponaria officinalis * 3 GNR SNA X Soft-stemmed Bulrush Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani 5 -5 X G5 S5 X Woolgrass Bulrush Scirpus atrovirens 3 -5 X G5? S5 X Cottongrass Bulrush Scirpus cyperinus 4 -5 X G5 S5 X Green Bristle Grass Setaria viridis 0 5 GNR SNA X Maiden's Tears Silene vulgaris * 5 GNR SNA X Smooth Herbaceous Greenbrier Smilax herbacea 5 0 G5 S4 X Bittersweet Nightshade Solanum dulcamara * 0 X GNR SNA X Tall Goldenrod Solidago altissima 1 3 G5 S5 R-4

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-4

Appendix D2: Plant List

3 5

Comon Name Scientific Name cc1 cw1

MNR

OWES OWES

Srank

Grank

Wetland

Simcoe

PlantList COSEWIC Canada Goldenrod Solidago canadensis 1 3 G5 SNR X Smooth Goldenrod Solidago gigantea 4 -3 X G5 S5 X Early Goldenrod Solidago juncea 3 5 G5 S5 X Field Goldenrod Solidago nemoralis var. nemoralis G5T5 S5 X Wrinkleleaf Goldenrod Solidago rugosa ssp rugosa 4 -1 X G5T5 S5 X Field Sowthistle Sonchus arvensis ssp arvensis * GNRTNR SNA X White Heath Aster Symphyotrichum ericoides var. ericoides 4 4 G5T5 S5 R-2 Panicled Aster Symphyotrichum lanceolatum ssp. lanceolatum X G5T5 S5 X New England Aster Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 2 -3 G5 S5 X Arrow-leaved Aster Symphyotrichum urophyllum 6 5 G4 S4 X Amethyst Aster Symphyotrichum x amethystinum GNA S3? Heart-leaved Aster Symphyotrichum cordifolium 5 5 G5 S5 X Purple-stemmed Aster Symphyotrichum puniceum var. puniceum 6 -5 X G5T5 S5 X Aster Species Symphyotricum sp. Common Lilac Syringa c.f. vulgaris * 5 GNR SNA X Common Dandelion Taraxacum officinale * 3 G5 SNA X Field Penny-cress Thlaspi arvense * 5 GNR SNA X Northern White Cedar Thuja occidentalis 4 -3 X G5 S5 X Heart-leaved Foam-flower Tiarella cordifolia 6 1 X G5 S5 X American Basswood Tilia americana 4 3 G5 S5 X Northern Poison Oak Toxicodendron rydbergii 0 0 G5 S5 X Meadow Goat's-beard Tragopogon dubius * 5 GNR SNA X Goat's-beard Species Tragopogon sp. Red Clover Trifolium pratense * 2 GNR SNA X Eastern Hemlock Tsuga canadensis 7 3 X G4G5 S5 X Colt's Foot Tussilago farfara * 3 X GNR SNA X Narrow-leaved Cattail Typha angustifolia 3 -5 X G5 SNA X Blue Cattail Typha x glauca 3 -5 X GNA SNA X Calico Aster Typha x glauca 3 -2 X G5T5 SNR X American Elm Ulmus americana 3 -2 X G5? S5 X Siberian Elm Ulmus pumila * 5 GNR SNA X Common Mullein Verbascum thapsus * 5 GNR SNA X Gypsy-weed Veronica officinalis * 5 G5 SNA X Tufted Vetch Vicia cracca * 5 GNR SNA X Riverbank Grape Vitis riparia 0 -2 G5 S5 X Barren Strawberry Waldsteinia fragarioides 5 5 G5 S5 X

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-5 Appendix D2: Plant List

Plant List Legend

Accepted Name and Author Accepted Name and Author were updated primarily using NatureServe Explorer (Updated June 2013), in combination with the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plants Database, and the New York Flora Atlas.

NatureServe Explorer: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer/index.htm ITIS: http://www.itis.gov/ USDA Plants: http://plants.usda.gov/java/ New York Flora Atlas: http://newyork.plantatlas.usf.edu/Default.aspx

1Coefficient of Conservatism and Coefficient of Wetness

Oldham, M. J., W. D. Bakowsky and D. A. Sutherland. 1995. Floristic Quality Assessment System for Southern Ontario. Natural Heritage Information Centre, Ministry of Natural Resources. Peterborough, Ontario.

CC: Coefficient of Conservatism. Rank of 0 to 10 based on plants degree of fidelity to a range of synecological parameters: (0-3) Taxa found in a variety of plant communities; (4-6) Taxa typically associated with a specific plant community but tolerate moderate disturbance; (7-8) Taxa associated with a plant community in an advanced successional stage that has undergone minor disturbance; (9-10) Taxa with a high fidelity to a narrow range of synecological parameters. CW: Coefficient of Wetness. Value between 5 and –5. A value of –5 is assigned to Obligate Wetland (OBL) and 5 to Obligate Upland (UPL), with intermediate values assigned to the remaining categories.

2G-Rank (Global) (Global Status from MNR Biodiversity Explorer September 2012)

Global ranks are assigned by a consensus of the network of Conservation Data Centres (CDCs), scientific experts, and the Nature Conservancy to designate a rarity rank based on the range-wide status of a species, subspecies, or variety.

Global (G) Conservation Status Ranks G1: Extremely rare – usually 5 or fewer occurrences in the overall range or very few remaining individuals; or because of some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extinction. G2: Very rare – usually between 5 and 20 occurrences in the overall range or with many individuals in fewer occurrences; or because of some factor(s) making it vulnerable to extinction. G3: Rare to uncommon – usually between 20 and 100 occurrences; may have fewer occurrences, but with a large number of individuals in some populations; may be susceptible to large-scale disturbances. G4: Common – usually more than 100 occurrences; usually not susceptible to immediate threats. G5: Very common – demonstrably secure under present conditions.

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-6 Appendix D2: Plant List

Variant Ranks G#G#: Range Rank – A numeric range rank (e.g., G2G3, G1G3) is used to indicate the range of uncertainty about the exact status of a taxon or ecosystem type. Ranges cannot skip more than two ranks (e.g., GU should be used rather than G1G4). GU: Unrankable – Currently unrankable due to lack of information or due to substantially conflicting information about status or trends. NOTE: Whenever possible (when the range of uncertainty is three consecutive ranks or less), a range rank (e.g., G2G3) should be used to delineate the limits (range) of uncertainty. GNR: Unranked – Global rank not yet assessed GNA: Not Applicable – A conservation status rank is not applicable because the species is not a suitable target for conservation activities.

Rank Qualifiers ?: Inexact Numeric Rank – Denotes inexact numeric rank; this should not be used with any of the Variant Global Conservation Status Ranks or GX or GH.

Q: Questionable taxonomy that may reduce conservation priority – Distinctiveness of this entity as a taxon or ecosystem type at the current level is questionable; resolution of this uncertainty may result in change from a species to a subspecies or hybrid, or inclusion of this taxon or type in another taxon or type, with the resulting taxon having a lower priority (numerically higher) conservation status rank. The “Q” modifier is only used at a global level and not at a national or subnational level.

C: Captive or Cultivated Only – Taxon or ecosystem at present is presumed or possibly extinct or eliminated in the wild across their entire native range but is extant in cultivation, in captivity, as a naturalized population (or populations) outside their native range, or as a reintroduced population or ecosystem restoration, not yet established. The “C” modifier is only used at a global level and not at a national or subnational level. Possible ranks are GXC or GHC. This is equivalent to “Extinct” in the Wild (EW) in IUCN’s Red List terminology (IUCN 2001).

3S-Ranks (Provincial)

Provincial (or Subnational) ranks are used by the Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) to set protection priorities for rare species and natural communities. These ranks are not legal designations. Provincial ranks are assigned in a manner similar to that described for global ranks, but consider only those factors within the political boundaries of Ontario. (Provincial Status from MNR Biodiversity Explorer September 2012)

S1: Critically Imperiled – Critically imperiled in the nation or state/province because of extreme rarity (often 5 or fewer occurrences) or because of some factor(s) such as very steep declines making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state/province. S2: Imperiled – Imperiled in the nation or state/province because of rarity due to very restricted range, very few populations (often 20 or fewer), steep declines, or other factors making it very vulnerable to extirpation from the nation or state/province. S3: Vulnerable – Vulnerable in the nation or state/province due to a restricted range, relatively few populations (often 80 or fewer), recent and widespread declines, or other factors making it vulnerable to extirpation. S4: Apparently Secure – Uncommon but not rare; some cause for long-term concern due to declines or other factors. S5: Secure – Common, widespread, and abundant in the nation or state/province.

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-7 Appendix D2: Plant List

S#S#: Range Rank – A numeric range rank (e.g., S2S3) is used to indicate any range of uncertainty about the status of the species or community. Ranges cannot skip more than one rank (e.g., SU is used rather than S1S4). SX: Presumed Extirpated – Species or community is believed to be extirpated from the nation or state/province. Not located despite intensive searches of historical sites and other appropriate habitat, and virtually no likelihood that it will be rediscovered. SH: Possibly Extirpated (Historical) – Species or community occurred historically in the nation or state/province, and there is some possibility that it may be rediscovered. Its presence may not have been verified in the past 20-40 years. A species or community could become NH or SH without such a 20-40 year delay if the only known occurrences in a nation or state/province were destroyed or if it had been extensively and unsuccessfully looked for. The NH or SH rank is reserved for species or communities for which some effort has been made to relocate occurrences, rather than simply using this status for all elements not known from verified extant occurrences. SE: Species is considered exotic in Ontario SNR: Unranked – Nation of state/province conservation status not yet assessed. SU: Unrankable – Currently unrankable due to lack of information or due to substantially conflicting information about status or trends. SNA: Not Applicable – A conservation status rank is not applicable because the species is not a suitable target for conservation activities.1

4COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada) (federal status from COSEWIC November 2012)

EXT: Extinct – A species that no longer exists. EXP: Extirpated – A species no longer existing in the wild in Canada, but occurring elsewhere. END: Endangered – A species facing imminent extirpation or extinction. THR: Threatened – A species likely to become endangered if limiting factors are not reversed. SC: Special Concern (formerly vulnerable) – A species that may become a threatened or an endangered species because of a combination of biological characteristics and identified threats. NAR: Not At Risk – A species that has been evaluated and found to be not at risk of extinction given the current circumstances. DD: Data Deficient (formerly Indeterminate) – Available information is insufficient to resolve a species' eligibility for assessment or to permit an assessment of the species' risk of extinction.

Implied COSEWIC Status Notations (Status Due to Taxonomic Relationships)2 value (Flagged Value) – The taxon itself is not named in the Canadian Species at Risk list, however, it does have status as a result of its taxonomic relationship to a named entity. For example, if a species has a COSEWIC status of “threatened”, then by default, all of its recognized subspecies that occur in Canada also have a threatened status. The subspecies in this example would have the value “T(2)” under COSEWIC. Likewise, if all of a species’ infraspecific taxa occurring in Canada have the same COSEWIC status, then that status appears in the entry for the “full” species as well. In this case, if the species name is not mentioned in the Canadian Species at Risk list, the status appears with a flag (2) in NatureServe Explorer.

1 Added on June 4, 2013 from http://nhic.mnr.gov.on.ca/glossary/srank.cfm 2 Added on June 5, 2013 from http://www.natureserve.org/explorer/statusca.htm

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-8 Appendix D2: Plant List

value, value: (Combination values with flags) – The taxon itself is not named in the Canadian Species at Risk list, however, all of its infraspecific taxa occurring in Canada do have status but two or more of the taxa do not have the same status. In this case, a combination of statuses shown with a flag (7) indicates the statuses that apply to infraspecific taxa or populations within this taxon.

PS: Indicates “partial status” – in only a portion of the species’ range in Canada. Typically indicated for a “full’ species where at least one but not all of a species’ infraspecific taxa or populations has COSEWIC status.

PSvalue: Indicates “partial status” – status in only a portion of the species’ range. The value of that status appears because the entity with status (usually a population defined by geopolitical boundaries within Canada) does not have an individual entry in NatureServe Explorer. Information about the entity with status can be found in reports for the associated species.

5MNRF (Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry)

(Provincial status from MNRF) The provincial review process is implemented by the MNRF's Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO).

EXT: Extinct – A species that no longer exists anywhere. EXP: Extirpated – A species that no longer exists in the wild in Ontario but still occurs elsewhere. END: Endangered – A species facing imminent extinction or extirpation in Ontario which is a candidate for regulation under Ontario's Endangered Species Act (ESA). THR: Threatened – A species that is at risk of becoming endangered in Ontario if limiting factors are not reversed. SC: Special Concern (formerly Vulnerable) – A species with characteristics that make it sensitive to human activities or natural events. NAR: Not at Risk – A species that has been evaluated and found to be not at risk. DD: Data Deficient (formerly Indeterminate) – A species for which there is insufficient information for a provincial status recommendation.

6 SARA (Species at Risk Act) Status and Schedule

The Act establishes Schedule 1, as the official list of species at risk. It classifies those species as being either Extirpated, Endangered, Threatened, or a Special Concern. Once listed, the measures to protect and recover a listed species are implemented.

EXT: Extinct – A species that no longer exists. EXP: Extirpated – A species that no longer exists in the wild in Canada, but exists elsewhere in the wild. END: Endangered – A species that is facing imminent extirpation or extinction. THR: Threatened – A species that is likely to become endangered if nothing is done to reverse the factors leading to its extirpation or extinction. SC: Special Concern – A species that may become a threatened or an endangered species because of a combination of biological characteristics and identified threats.

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-9 Appendix D2: Plant List

Schedule 1: is the official list of species that are classified as extirpated, endangered, threatened, and of special concern. Schedule 2: species listed in Schedule 2 are species that had been designated as endangered or threatened, and have yet to be re-assessed by COSEWIC using revised criteria. Once these species have been re-assessed, they may be considered for inclusion in Schedule 1. Schedule 3: species listed in Schedule 3 are species that had been designated as special concern, and have yet to be re-assessed by COSEWIC using revised criteria. Once these species have been re-assessed, they may be considered for inclusion in Schedule 1.

The Act establishes Schedule 1 as the official list of species at risk. However, please note that while Schedule 1 lists species that are extirpated, endangered, threatened and of special concern, the prohibitions do not apply to species of special concern.

Species that were designated at risk by COSEWIC prior to October 1999 (Schedule 2 & 3) must be reassessed using revised criteria before they can be considered for addition to Schedule 1 of SARA. After they have been assessed, the Governor in Council may on the recommendation of the Minister, decide on whether or not they should be added to the List of Species at Risk.

Government of Canada. Species at Risk Public Registry. Website: [http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/default_e.cfm September 27, 2012]

Glossary: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/about/glossary/default_e.cfm#e Species Index A-Z: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/sar/index/default_e.cfm Species Listing by Schedule: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/sar/listing/default_e.cfm

7 Regional Status

Simcoe, Hamilton-Brant-Wentworth-Oxford, Wellington-Dufferin, Durham (Pickering- Uxbridge-Brock-Oshawa-Whitby-Ajax-Scugog-Clarington), Peterborough-Durham- Victoria-Northumberland.

Riley, J. e.t al. 1989. The Distribution and Status of the Vascular Plants of Central Region. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Central Region, Richmond Hill, ON.

Codes are defined as follows: E: Endangered – e.g., Cucumber Tree (Magnolia acuminata) N: Nationally Rare – rare in every province in which it occurs. A rare species is one that because of biological characteristics, occurs at edge of range, exists in low numbers, or in very restricted areas in the region under consideration. P: Provincially Rare – a species S-ranked (S1-SX) from the National Museum’s “Atlas of Rare Vascular Plants of Ontario” (Argus et.al. 1982-88). R: Regionally Rare – Native species are considered regionally rare if the species in considered rare wherever it occurs in Central Region especially in areas where recent local determinations of rarity have been made and/or if it is considered provincially rare in the portions in which species’ status is insufficiently documented. Only naturally occurring populations are considered. X: Occurs within the region. + or I: Introduced species.

McKay Road East – Highway 400 Interchange, Lockhart Road / Salem Road Crossing - Existing Conditions Memorandum MMM Group, a WSP Company November 2016 D2-10 Drost, Heather

From: Gee, Kate (MNRF) Sent: April-08-16 9:49 AM To: Domsic, Kristina Subject: 400-McKay Information Request

Categories: Background Info

Hello Kristina,

I apologize for the delay in responding to your request for information on the McKay Road Interchange at Highway 400 in Barrie.

The tributaries of Lover’s Creek should be considered cold water thermal regime. Sampling in the tributaries of that area (Lockhart/Huronia and McKay/Huronia) have found the following species: Blacknose Dace, Brook Trout, Slimy Sculpin, Brook Stickleback, Common Shiner, White Sucker, Fathead Minnow, Mottled Sculpin, Creek Chub, Central Mudminnow, Longnose Dace and Pearl Dace. Based on this any in-water work should be avoided in these watercourses for the timing windows of Mar 15 – July 15 and Oct 1 – May 31.

The Lover’s Creek PSW does extend through the project area and the mapping you provided does reflect the current update to that PSW done in 2010. There are records of Snapping Turtle (SC) in the wetland. Additional information from the wetland evaluation update can be provided if needed.

There are Stratum 1 and Stratum 2 Deer Wintering Areas that extend through the project area. They are mapped as follows:

1 Given the majority of the study area is a road corridor, the SAR species potentially impacted in the study area are likely to be Barn Swallow and Bats in anthropogenic features. Additionally, Butternut should be surveyed for in the study area.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or if you require any additional information on the study area.

Thanks, Kate

Kate Gee A/ Management Biologist Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Midhurst District (705) 725-7522