AGENDA FOR CONSERVATION ADVISORY BOARD MEETING
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015
NOTICE OF MEETING
CONSERVATION ADVISORY BOARD
Thursday, March 12, 2015
7:00 p.m.
Woodend
AGENDA
1. CHAIRMAN’S REMARKS ~ Topalovic
2. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. DELEGATIONS
5. MEMBER BRIEFING
6. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT ON BOARD OF DIRECTORS ACTIONS ~ Topalovic
CA1512 Operating Plan for Eramosa Karst Feeder Lands CA1514 East Escarpment Conservation Area Program Overview
7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
7.1 Minutes – Conservation Advisory Board (February 12, 2015) ~ Topalovic
8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
8.1 Hermitage Ruins Restoration – Verbal Update ~ Bell
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.1 Hamilton Burlington Trails Council ~ Hall
9.2 Program Technical Advisory Committee ~ O’Neal – Hamilton Conservation Authority Watershed Projects
10. OTHER NEW BUSINESS
11. NEXT MEETING – Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.
12. ADJOURNMENT HAMILTON CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
Conservation Advisory Board
MINUTES
February 12, 2015
Minutes of the Conservation Advisory Board meeting held on Thursday, February 12, 2015 at the HCA’s Woodend Administration Building commencing at 7:00 p.m.
PRESENT: Maria Topalovic, Chair Rob Booth Sean Botham Lydia Cartlidge Frank Cucullo James Howlett Donna Kydd Cheryl Larocque Chris Michels Duke O’Sullivan Robert Pasuta Morgan Pirie John Shaw
REGRETS: John Barkovic, Dan Bowman, Kristen Brittain, Marie Robbins, Mary Tice
OTHERS PRESENT: Jonathan Bastien, Sandy Bell, Andrew Borer, Lisa Burnside, Gord Costie, Matt Hall, Bruce Harschnitz, Lesley McDonell, Neil McDougall, Sheila O’Neal, Scott Peck, Joanna Sanche, Mike Stone, John Williams - HCA Staff
OTHERS: Media – Richard Leitner
1. CHAIR’S REMARKS
Maria Topalovic welcomed all to the meeting and passed on regrets from those members not able to attend.
2. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
There were none.
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Conservation Advisory Board February 12, 2015
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
CA1507 MOVED BY: Cheryl Larocque SECONDED BY: Donna Kydd
THAT the February 12, 2015 Conservation Areas Advisory Board meeting agenda be approved.
CARRIED
4. DELEGATIONS
There were none.
5. MEMBER BRIEFING
5.1 “Let’s Take a Walk” Recreational Trails Project
Matt Hall presented an overview of the Let’s Take a Walk Program; a recreational trails project. The review included details of the Hamilton Council on Aging (HCoA) initiated project, designed to promote opportunities for trail users with varying abilities.
The objective of the program is to educate older adults on the benefits of walking as a form of physical exercise by increasing the awareness of suitable local trails, with a long term goal to increase the opportunities for older adults to participate in recreational trail walks, while showcasing the health benefits of walking.
The project was based on: • the growing amount of evidence showing that walking is beneficial to physical and mental health, • there being no real single information resource available for people interested in such activities, and • studies having shown increasingly older demographics across the Greater Hamilton area
The project was designed by the HCoA and was funded by the Ontario Recreation Communities Fund.
McMaster University master’s degree students from the Occupational Therapy Program, conducted a series of trail audits across the Hamilton area, with groups of varying physical abilities, to produce a final research report. The audits focused on many trail characteristics such as; difficulty, distance, condition,
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parking, rest-rooms, benches & picnic tables, public transit access, as well as any accessibility features.
A total of 13 trail workshops for older adults were hosted in various areas across Hamilton to showcase potential areas people can use. An official brochure has been created, highlighting 18 trails, 9 within HCA properties.
Let’s Take a Walk: An Age-Friendly Guide to 18 of Hamilton’s Outdoor Recreational Trails is available for free download at www.coahamilton.ca
Or contact: Shelagh Kiely Projects and Office Coordinator Hamilton Council on Aging (HCoA) 905-777-3837 ext. 12238 [email protected]
Staff was asked if HCA designs trails with an aging population in mind. Staff responded in the affirmative and included that HCA will continue to do so, with the assistance of provincial guidelines for design of the outdoor built environment to ensure accessibility. The guidelines are a complement to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and are expected to be released by the Province in the near future.
CA1508 MOVED BY: Sean Botham SECONDED BY: Frank Cucullo
THAT the information from the ‘Let’s Take a Walk’ Recreational Trails Project presentation be received
CARRIED
5.2 “HCA’s Approach to Flood Management”
Jonathan Bastien presented an overview of HCA’s approach to flood management. The overview included three main components of HCA’s flood management program: prevention, protection and emergency preparedness (flood forecasting & warning).
The objective of flood management is to prevent the loss of life, minimize property damage and social disruption, and encourage a coordinated approach to the use of land and the management of water.
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Prevention
Tools for the prevention of flood impacts include: floodplain mapping updates, land use planning, HCA’s planning and regulations program, and assessments of existing and future conditions. Current assessments include:
• Integrated subwatershed studies o Spencer Creek o Red Hill Creek • Watershed water budgets • Climate Change Vulnerability Study for Lower Spencer Creek
Flood plain mapping (FPM) is a critical tool for Conservation Authorities in achieving the flood management objectives of the Authority. HCA currently has floodplain mapping for 30% of its watershed, with a long term program to systematically improve and expand the flood plain mapping. The long term program includes a priority list for updating. The aim is to have one consistent set of mapping for priority areas. The priority areas and relevant floodplain mapping projects include:
• Lower Spencer Creek – Integrated Subwatershed Study in progress, • Red Hill Creek – verify floodplain mapping completed in conjunction with the completion of the Red Hill Valley Parkway, and • Stoney Creek Numbered Watercourses – update outdated mapping.
Protection
Tools for protection from flood impacts typically include:
• structural measures, • providing technical advice to municipalities as to additional flood mitigation actions during the emergency response process, • undertaking special projects to enhance flood protection infrastructure, and • acquisition measures.
HCA operates two dams (Valens Lake and Christie Lake Conservation Areas) to provide flood attenuation.
Flood Forecasting & Warning
Flood forecasting and warning involve:
• predicting watercourse conditions within the watershed resulting from a forecasted storm, • operating flood control structures,
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• disseminating flood messages to local municipalities, agencies and the public, and • post analysis of flood and impacts.
Predicting watercourse conditions within the watershed, resulting from a forecasted storm, is based on:
• available meteorological data (recent, current and forecasted), including: Environment Canada, Ministry of Natural Resources and HCA, etc., • current streamflow and water level conditions (as well as trends in conditions) based on HCA WISKI data, site observations at gauge stations, and site visits to flood-prone ungauged locations • current snowpack conditions, and • understanding and experience of previous watershed responses to a similar storm under similar antecedent conditions.
The HCA Hydrometric Network is comprised of 6 stream flow recording stations, 2 dam water level recording stations, 12 precipitation gauges, 9 groundwater monitoring stations and 4 snow courses. Staff frequently monitors current watercourse conditions (HCA WISKI data and site visits) as well as conduct bi- weekly snow surveys. Predicted watercourse conditions within the watershed are updated, as required
WISKI SODA is equipment and software that enables staff to access “realtime” (1 hour delay) data for the 6 streamflow, 2 dam water level and 12 precipitation gauges.
Alarms are sent to HCA staff (via emails received on desktop computers and cellular phones) when water levels rise above preset early warning thresholds or when more than 25 mm of rainfall is recorded in less than 4 hours. Staff also frequently confirms WISKI data with site visits to gauge stations during storm events.
Based on the severity/intensity of forecasted conditions, a Watershed Conditions Statement, flood watch or Flood Warning may be distributed to City of Hamilton staff, police, fire, MNR, media, etc.
Frazil Ice Forecasting
Flooding due to frazil ice jams is a recurring problem in some areas of HCA’s watershed. Frazil ice is caused by super-cooling of water in a flowing watercourse. Ideal conditions for the formation of frazil ice occur when flows pass over a steep slope and when a cold air temperature is sustained for a given period.
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Middle Spencer Creek, above the Escarpment, is an area of frazil ice generation. Lower Spencer Creek, within the Town of Dundas in the vicinity of the Thorpe Street bridge and Cootes Drive, is an area susceptible to flooding due to frazil ice accumulation.
HCA retained a frazil ice expert to identify causes of frazil ice formation in the watershed and to recommend measures for its management. A frazil ice forecasting tool was developed in 2014. The frazil ice tool is a formulation for forecasting the potential of occurrence for frazil ice flooding. It was developed by analysing several years of flow and weather data.
HCA’s monitoring program has been expanded to include the frazil ice forecasting tool.
Members inquired about historical flooding events in Lower Spencer Creek attributed to frazil ice, in 2005 and 2009. Staff confirmed that the 2005 event was the most severe, with frazil ice accumulation occurring in 2009 but with less flooding.
In the first year of using the frazil ice forecasting tool, there has been no identified risk for flooding. Current conditions have not warranted the issuance of a ‘yellow’, potential outlook, for frazil ice related flood potential. Ice cover on the majority of Spencer Creek has not exposed the water to the cold air to allow for supercooling, ideal for frazil ice formation.
Members also inquired about the potential for frazil ice related flooding in other areas of HCA’s watershed. Staff advised that surface ice break up occurs in Red Hill Creek, but not frazil ice. Staff has not observed frazil ice anywhere else in the watershed. A resulting discussion around flood potential due to surface ice occurred. Staff advised that ice break up monitoring is completed when air temperature is +0oC for a period of 24 hours. Ice thickness is also qualitatively measured during monitoring site visits.
A clarification of the term modeling was requested from staff. Staff advised that modeling refers to a computer model that allows for the input of local data. For example, local climate data is inputted into a hydrology model. A hydrology model estimates volume, timing and magnitude of runoff.
Some CA’s use computer models to forecast runoff from storm events or spring melt, taking into consideration watershed conditions, such as depth and composition of a snow pack, however because HCA has such a small watershed, we are able to utilize data from the hydrometric network and routine staff monitoring of various sites within the watershed to forecast potential runoff and associated flooding potential. Police and municipal employees who are regularly dispersed throughout the watershed also report possible flooding to HCA.
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CA1509 MOVED BY: John Shaw SECONDED BY: Lydia Cartlidge
THAT the information from the “HCA’s Approach to Flood Management” presentation be received.
CARRIED
6. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT OF BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S ACTIONS
There was none.
7. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FROM THE PREVIOUS MEETING
7.1 Minutes – Conservation Advisory Board (January 22, 2015)
CA1510 MOVED BY: Duke O’Sullivan SECONDED BY: Cheryl Larocque
THAT the minutes of the January 22, 2015 Conservation Areas Advisory Board meeting be accepted.
CARRIED
8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
8.1 Mineral Springs Dam – Verbal Update
Scott Peck provided an update on the Mineral Springs Dam project. HCA operates two official dams, Christie Lake and Valens Lake reservoirs. Mineral Springs Dam is a road that acts as an earthen berm, with a culvert under the road. The berm and culvert slow water flow.
The dam was constructed in 1989-1991. The intent of the dam was to address flooding issues in the village of Mineral Springs, the flood waters resulting from upstream development in Ancaster. The dam has been in operation since 1990- 1991. Over time, the dam has not functioned properly. The culvert under the road becomes blocked with debris. Also, geoweb material on the downstream side of the culvert has eroded.
Half of the funding for the repair of the dam has been provided through the Provincial Water Erosion Control Infrastructure (WECI) Program, with the remaining half of the funding allocated from HCA levy funds.
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The design of the repair has recently been completed. The design proposes to install a riser on the upstream side of the dam. A riser is a vertical pipe on the culvert where, in the event of a blockage, the water will still be able to enter and pass through the culvert. The design also proposes to replace the geoweb with rip rap material.
Tenders for the project were also recently released. The tender and design were approved by the HCA Board of Directors. Tenders will be brought to the Board of Directors for selection.
March 31, 2015 is the required completion date for the works due to the Provincial (WECI Program) fiscal year end.
CA1511 MOVED BY: Donna Kydd SECONDED BY: Cheryl Larocque
THAT the information from the Mineral Springs Dam – Verbal Update be received.
CARRIED
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.1 Operating Plan for Eramosa Karst Feeder Lands
Sandy Bell provided an overview of the Operating Plan for Eramosa Karst Feeder Lands.
It has been two years since the 20-year lease for the 80 acres of karst feeder lands was granted to HCA and a plan for the management of the lands was required.
The original land acquisition for the Eramosa Karst Conservation Area included the Eramosa Karst Core Area Provincially Significant Earth Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI). The lease of the 38 hectares of feeder lands includes the Eramosa Karst Feeder Area Provincially Significant Earth Science ANSI. The feeder lands are significant as they have the potential to impact the core area.
A five month timeline was given to provide an operating plan for the feeder lands. The plan received approval from the Province on May 14th, 2014.
The Operating Plan outlines that the feeder lands will be managed in a similar way to the Core Area. The intent will be to protect the landscape, geology, flora and fauna. The area will be a provincially protected cultural site. The area will
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also provide a provincially significant recreation and outdoor experience, including education opportunities.
The Core Area is a provincial Resource Management Area, comprised of old field habitat. The feeder lands also contain old field habitat. The feeder lands will be managed differently from the core area by focusing on creating and rehabilitating meadow habitat for meadow dependent species rather than reforestation efforts.
The Operating Plan apportions the Feeder Area into Management Zones. The Management Zones include: Stewart and Nexus Creeks Watercourse Buffers, Friends of the Eramosa Karst (FOTEK) Lookout and Wildflower Display, Widened Hedgerows, Upland Meadows and Grassland Meadows.
Management for meadow habitat will include planting with a mixture of meadow species, every three years and occasionally mowing to maintain desirable species. The aim of the meadow management zones will be to protect habitat and provide feed sources for different types of wildlife.
Perimeter fencing was erected in 2014 in an effort to prevent encroachment into the Feeder Area. The fencing is primarily intended to prevent vehicular access and dumping activities. The fencing project also resulted in what staff observed to be an education opportunity with Feeder Area neighbours, about encroachment. Staff were able to identify areas of significant encroachment during the fencing project. Some encroachment is registered on title. For example, a tile bed for a septic system for a neighbouring property. Other instances of encroachment are not approved. For example, staff observed a small barn erected within the Feeder Area. Some remediation of encroachment occurred as a result of the fencing initiative.
Two historical foot paths in the northeast corner of the Feeder Area have been incorporated into the operating plan to provide access to the area. The operating plan aims to achieve a balance between management for wildlife and recreation. For example, many trails will be turf material. However, the gate in the northeast corner will be a stone trail access for maintenance purposes.
The implementation of the management plan has an approximate $100,000.00 capital budget.
Following the completion of the plan, FOTEK requested a buffer planting area along the perimeter of the southeast corner of the Feeder Area, along the roadway, to create an avenue effect. FOTEK intends to raise funds for the planting as a community project
The operating plan will be the plan that staff use to manage the area. The first half of the management plan was completed in 2013. Staff was given a tight timeframe to submit the plan to the Province. The first half of the plan was staff
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initiated and staff approved before it was submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Infrastructure (OMOI). This was the first opportunity for CAB to review the plan. Staff is now seeking to have the plan formalized and approved.
Members requested clarification around the process required for approval from the Province. Staff advised that the OMOI made a few comments on the first plan related to revenue for HCA generated from signage rentals. Staff advised that HCA has signage on other properties that generate revenue.
Chris Firth-Eagland advised that a transaction was made between the City of Hamilton and HCA to exchange the HCA owned Griffin House property with a City owned property on the north side of the Feeder Area. The property acquired by HCA will serve as a gateway and trail linkage to the Feeder Area for the neighbouring community.
Staff advised that 73 hectares of the Eramosa Karst Conservation Area is owned by HCA and 38 hectares are leased by HCA through a 20 year lease agreement with the Province. A discussion resulted around the possibility of HCA purchasing the leased lands in the future. Staff advised that it is a possibility in the future.
A further discussion about fencing occurred. Staff advised that nine wire farm fence was used for the fencing project. Staff added that this type of fencing is typically used for most Authority fencing projects and is found to be effective. Staff indicated that the newly acquired property will be fenced in the spring.
CA1512 MOVED BY: Donna Kydd SECONDED BY: Lydia Cartlidge
THAT the Conservation Advisory Board recommends to the Board of Directors that the approved Operating Plan for the Eramosa Karst Feeder Lands be adopted and added as an appendix to the Eramosa Karst Conservation Area Master Plan.
CARRIED
9.2 Rifle Range Prairie Prescribed Burn and Restoration
John Williams presented information on the Rifle Range Prairie Prescribed Burn and Restoration project scheduled for the spring of 2015. The project area is located in the vicinity of Shaver and Jerseyville Roads, more specifically near Jerseyville Road and Highway 52. The area is located in the southwest corner of HCA’s watershed.
Prescribed fire is the knowledgeable and controlled application of fire to a specific land area to accomplish planned resource management objectives.
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These fires are managed in such a way as to minimize the emission of smoke and maximize the benefits to the site.
Environmental benefits of the practice include, to: • control disease, • perpetuate fire-dependent species, • manage competing vegetation (invasive), and • improve wildlife habitat.
Risk management associated with the practice includes: • reduce hazardous fuels, • dispose of debris, and • enhance appearance.
The purpose of a prescribed burn is to mimic a natural disturbance of a fire dependent ecosystem in a safe controlled and effective manner that will meet the specific objectives of the prescribed burn plan.
Burn plan objectives include, to: • reduce invasive species • stimulate native plant growth
HCA objectives include, to: • complete the first burn in 10 years (past burns were completed in 2001 and 2005), • establish 1 to 2 more species (yet to be determined), and • educate the public on the importance of tallgrass prairie ecosystems.
The burn plan was prepared by Tall Grass Ontario and will be submitted to the fire department. A safety plan will be in place to direct members of the public away from the project site during implementation.
The burn will take place when the grass is 70% to 90 % cured with the start of green up, approximately late April. The burn could be postponed/cancelled if the weather forecast is not realized or the site has been compromised e.g. fuel arrangement change, poor fuel breaks or the schedule of activities within the plan have not been adhered to. A smog alert may also cause the burn to be postponed or cancelled on burn day.
An external communications plan will be used to advise and engage the public. The plan will include: • posted closure signs on road intersections, • flyer notification to neighbours, • media releases, and • an open house / public information session (if requested by fire dept.)
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The prescribed burn relates to a number of strategic objectives under three of the strategic goals identified in HCA’s Strategic Plan, including: Natural Heritage Conservation, Conservation Area Experience, and Education and Environmental Awareness.
The burn also relates to strategic directives outlined in the Dundas Valley 50 Year Vision and Strategy, including: • Promote the Connectivity of Ecosystems • Preserve Rare, Endangered and Species at Risk • Combat Invasive Species • Preserve the Escarpment and Selected Vistas
Project partners and participants include Tallgrass Ontario, TD Friends of the Environment, and Wildfire Specialists Inc. Tall Grass Ontario provided funding as well as the preparation of the burn plan as an in-kind contribution. TD Friends of the Environment has also provided funding for the project.
Information sharing and local support have been provided by Hamilton Naturalists Club, Carolinian Canada, Cootes to Escarpment, and Nature Conservancy of Ontario. Niagara Peninsula, Grand River, Lower and Upper Thames, and Essex Region Conservation Authorities have all been consulted or have provided assistance in the planning of the project.
Project contacts include: • Kevin Tupman – Grand River CA • Deanna Lindblad – Niagara Peninsula CA • Jack Chapman – Tallgrass Ontario • Bob Simpson – Chief Fire Prevention Officer • Brian Burnett – Wildfire Specialists
A discussion around the extent and nature of smoke and soot produced during the burn occurred, specifically inquiring as to the amount of soot and whether or not the smoke and soot will reach Jerseyville Road. Staff advised that weather and wind will be a factor in the behaviour of the smoke but that at this time they do not foresee that Jerseyville Road will need to be closed. Staff also indicated that a significant amount of soot is not anticipated.
A discussion about the preparation of the site and the potential for impacts to wildlife occurred. Lesley McDonell, Terrestrial Ecologist advised that staff walk through the site with brooms and make noise to move animals prior to initiating the burn. She also advised that in early April many animals are not out of hibernation yet. She did indicate that Jefferson salamander are a species of concern for the project. However, indicated that the burn site is believed to be 300m from known Jefferson salamander habitat. Lesley advised that in waiting for snow to melt, in order to achieve ideal burn conditions, the project timeline also avoids the time of concern for the movement of salamanders.
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Members inquired about a contingency plan in the event that ideal conditions are not experienced in April. Lesley advised that prairie habitats are comprised of warm-season grasses that emerge later in the Spring during warmer weather. She indicated that the burn must take place before warm-season grasses begin to emerge. Lesley advised that if the conditions for the burn are not met this April, that the burn will be postponed until April 2016.
Members inquired as to whether or not the fire department and staff would be assisting with the burn. Staff advised that a burn boss/wildfire contractor, will be on-site and will determine if conditions are suitable. The fire department will be consulted.
Members inquired as to the length of time expected for the burn and the smoking from the burn to take place. Staff advised that the contractor has indicated that given the size of the area, the burn may be undertaken quickly, but will depend on conditions. The burn area is approximately 1.7 hectares in size. A buffer surrounding the burn area increases the project area to 2.1 hectares. Staff advised that smoke from the burn will occur for a longer period than the burning specifically.
CA1513 MOVED BY: Frank Cucullo SECONDED BY: Duke O’Sullivan
THAT the “Rifle Range Prairie Prescribed Burn and Restoration” report be received as information.
CARRIED
9.3 East Escarpment Conservation Area Program Overview
Scott Peck presented a program overview for the East Escarpment Conservation Area. HCA is working with the City to develop a Conservation Area in the eastern portion of its watershed. The new conservation area is intended to provide opportunities for an increased land base while enhancing and restoring wetlands, watercourses and reforestation and providing flood attenuation and low flow augmentation.
The program overview is intended to be sent to partners, funders and the Province as a general overview of the initiative. Technical studies are expected to follow, that will outline specific details for how the objectives of the initiative will be achieved.
The program overview is being sent to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for approval. Section 24 of the Conservation Authorities Act provides HCA with the authority to create a Conservation Area. Approval of the initiative from the Province will allow HCA to undertake partial takings of
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properties under Section 50 of the Planning Act. These transactions will be undertaken on a willing buyer/willing seller basis
A member inquired about land acquisition opportunities for landowners who wish to sell lands that are unusable to HCA. Staff indicated that each property will be considered and that ideally the properties would meet some of criteria that could contribute to the objectives of the initiative. For example, that the property be contiguous with other strategic properties, that the property would contain a natural area, or that the property has the potential for reforestation, etc.
A discussion around the time frame for the larger assembly of the properties required occurred. Staff indicated that there is five years of funding in place for land acquisition, with an added year that offers some leeway to finish the land acquisition. Future grant applications will be pursued for the design and implementation of projects within the Conservation Area.
Chris Firth Eagland commented that HCA will be partnering with the City of Hamilton during the third stage of the initiative, which will focus on creating opportunities for natural hazard attenuation, including flood and drought conditions.
CA1514 MOVED BY: Lydia Cartlidge SECONDED BY: Sean Botham
THAT the East Escarpment Conservation Area Program Overview be approved, and further;
THAT the East Escarpment Conservation Area Program Overview be circulated to the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry for approval under Section 24 of the Conservation Authorities Act.
CARRIED
10. OTHER NEW BUSINESS
10.1 Wildlife Management Committee
Councilor Pasuta tabled a newspaper article that made reference to trapping at HCA facilities, for discussion. He referred to the minutes of the previous Conservation Advisory Board meeting, requesting clarification on the information presented in the update on the activities of the Wildlife Management Committee (WMC).
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Councilor Pasuta reviewed the names of all organizations invited by the WMC to participate in a survey of all stakeholder groups. Staff confirmed that each group that was invited, participated in the survey, with the exception of the Association for the Protection of Fur Bearing Animals. Staff indicated that the group was invited to participate but had declined. It was confirmed that no other contact with the group has occurred since that time.
Members indicated disappointment that the article was published with comments from a representative of a group that opted not to participate in the WMC’s process and without seeking comments from HCA.
Staff indicated that the reporter did contact HCA to inquire about the status of the Wildlife Management Committee but did not offer the intent of the article at the time of the phone call. Staff offered that the WMC is in the process of developing a policy, in consultation with input from various stakeholders.
Board Chair Howlett commented that HCA has previously contracted a licensed trapper and approved the use of a lethal method. He offered that leg hold traps are as humane as possible. He advised that the traps were only in place for one week and were inspected every twelve hours by the licensed trapper. He indicated that there was little possibility for unintended trapping and torture of wildlife. He also advised that leg hold traps are submerged and therefore do not pose a risk to people or pets.
Chris Firth Eagland commented that as an agency we are methodically looking for best practices for the management of wildlife. He indicated that live trapping regularly occurs when wildlife have the potential to interfere with infrastructure.
He acknowledged that HCA was using lethal trapping methods to manage beaver populations. He indicated that this is an industry standard for managing wildlife that are interfering with infrastructure, citing examples of blocked culverts and flooded farm fields. He commented that as an organization we put a hold on the practice completely until the work of the WMC is completed. The HCA Board of Directors will make a decision based on the findings of the WMC. Staff is looking forward to the recommendations from the Committee, when ready, indicating that the initiative is still in progress.
Staff advised that no correspondence has been received as a result of the article having been published.
10.2 Griffin House Land Swap
Chris Firth-Eagland responded to a member inquiry regarding a newspaper article about a land swap between the City of Hamilton and HCA. He advised that a transaction was made between the City of Hamilton and HCA to exchange the HCA owned Griffin House property with a City owned property on the north side
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of the Eramosa Karst Feeder Area. He indicated that the exchange is mutually beneficial and will result in community projects. The transaction was completed without an exchange of funds. The property exchange of the Millgrove Works Yard and the Borer’s Falls Dog Park in Dundas was cited as a previous example of such a transaction between HCA and the City of Hamilton.
The City of Hamilton manages the Fieldcote Museum adjacent to the Griffin House. The City of Hamilton expressed interest in undertaking archaeological studies at the Griffin House. The property exchange allowed the City to pursue these studies. The City has also indicated an intention to develop programming at the Griffin House.
The property that HCA has received will provide a permanent neighbourhood access point to the Karst Feeder Area. The property will result in the creation of a neighbourhood trail system.
10.3 Outgoing Advisory Board Member
The Chair expressed appreciation to Sean Botham for his time and input into the Conservation Advisory Board over the course of his time with the Board. Sean indicated that he found the experience to be a pleasure and a privilege. He indicated that he enjoyed the many experiences while serving on the Board, specifically the Fletcher Creek trail walk. Sean also indicated that he has appreciated the great discussions of the Board and learning about the great work that has been done.
11. NEXT MEETING
The next meeting of the CAB is scheduled for Thursday, March 12, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at HCA’s Woodend Administration Building. The April meeting will be held at Valens Lake Conservation Area.
12. ADJOURNMENT
On motion, the meeting was adjourned.
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Report
TO: Conservation Advisory Board
FROM: Chris Firth-Eagland, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
RECOMMENDED BY: Chris Firth-Eagland, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
PREPARED BY: Matt Hall, Design Projects Coordinator
DATE: Feb. 19, 2015
RE: Hamilton Burlington Trails Council (HBTC)
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
THAT the HCA staff recommends to the Conservation Advisory Board:
THAT the HCA be endorsed as an active participating partner with the Hamilton Burlington Trails Council.
BACKGROUND
The Hamilton Burlington Trails Council (HBTC) was established in 2013 as the result of a growing discussion about the need for easily accessible information for trail users and the need to connect user groups with trail property owners, like the HCA. These discussions, and the initiative to establish the HBTC, came from the goals and objectives of the Cootes to Escarpment Eco Park System (C2E) project: to 'provide opportunities for appropriate passive recreation' in the C2E lands. The HBTC decided to expand the geographical area of focus beyond the border of C2E lands to incorporate the entire Hamilton and Burlington municipal region, allowing the development of a regional trails vision and the ability to connect to other trail networks in southern Ontario.
The HBTC currently consists of members from: the cities of Hamilton & Burlington, HCA, Conservation Halton, RBG, Halton Region, McMaster University, as well as several local user groups including the Hamilton Cycling Club, Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club and the Hamilton Naturalists Club.
STAFF COMMENT
The HBTC is a unique group in our area which will act as an all-inclusive resource for accurate and up to date trails information to the public. Currently, trail information for all areas within Hamilton and Burlington, is segregated to the individual landowners themselves. This trails council will be a key link in collaborating all of the pieces from the member organizations and providing it to the public in a much more accessible way.
The council will also act as a forum for the contributing organizations, to identify potential trail linkages, discuss harmonization of trail standards and rules, and provide a complete trail mapping system that includes the official trails across the Hamilton/Burlington area.
STRATEGIC PLAN LINKAGE
The initiative refers directly to the HCA Strategic Plan 2014-2018:
• Strategic Goal # 2 – Natural Heritage Conservation o Strategic Objective – Promote the value of heritage lands on public and private property.
• Strategic Goal # 3 – Conservation Area Experience o Strategic Objective – Focus marketing activities to attract visitors to conservation areas. o Strategic Objective – Develop and explore new revenue generating activities.
• Strategic Goal # 4 – Education and Environmental Awareness o Strategic Objective – Collaborate with agencies and organizations to promote the importance and value of the watershed environment.
• Strategic Goal # 5 – Organizational Excellence o Strategic Objective – Promote the role and mandate of the Hamilton Conservation Authority, and the services we provide, to the public and our partner organizations.
AGENCY COMMENTS
Not applicable.
LEGAL/FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no foreseen legal implications at this time. Financially we are responsible for HCA staff time and mileage for meetings. Currently the HCA has one to two staff members attend each meeting, depending on the relevancy of the topics on the agenda. The council meets one evening per month for approximately two hours.
CONCLUSIONS
The Hamilton Burlington Trails Council is a worthwhile initiative that has developed from the successes of the Cootes to Escarpment project. It has great potential involving nearly all of the goals of the HCA strategic plan and as one of the major landowners within the Hamilton/Burlington area; it is highly recommended that we have a voice on the council.
Hamilton Burlington Trails Council
Mission statement:
To serve as a trail alliance for a well-connected trail system in the Cities of Hamilton and Burlington, while promoting the health benefits of recreational trail use to residents and visitors and conserving our valuable natural ecosystems.
Goals and objectives:
• To promote active living and related discussions of benefits. • To assist the agency landholders with hosting a well-connected and well-utilized trail system. • To foster effective communication between agency landholders, stakeholders, and users. • To provide a forum to discuss the needs of citizens in regards to trails and pathways. • To help identify priority trail-linkage projects and identify funding opportunities. • To provide a forum to discuss harmonized trail rules, trail issues, and classification schemes. • To provide fully comprehensive and up to date on-line trail mapping and information.
Participating Agencies/Organizations:
McMaster University Hamilton Conservation Authority Halton Conservation City of Burlington City of Hamilton Royal Botanical Gardens Hamilton MTB Club Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club Bike for Mike Hamilton Waterfront Trust Ontario Trails Council
Report
TO: Conservation Advisory Board
FROM: Chris Firth-Eagland, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
RECOMMENDED BY: Scott Peck, MCIP, RPP Director, Watershed Planning and Engineering
PREPARED BY: Sheila O’Neal, Watershed Stewardship Manager, Hamilton Watershed Stewardship Program
DATE: March 12, 2015
RE: Project Technical Advisory Committee Hamilton Conservation Authority Watershed Projects
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
THAT the Conservation Advisory Board recommends to the Board of Directors:
THAT the responsibilities of the Project Technical Advisory Committee for the Hamilton and Halton Watershed Stewardship Programs be approved as identified in this staff report of March 12, 2015; and further
THAT the members on the Committee be appointed for the period of April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016.
BACKGROUND
Between 1994 and 2014 the Hamilton-Halton Watershed Stewardship Program (HHWSP) was operated jointly by Hamilton and Halton Conservation Authorities. On January 1, 2015 Hamilton and Halton Conservation Authorities began administering their own stewardship programs within their watersheds. Within the Hamilton Harbour Watershed the two conservation authorities continue to work collaboratively.
The shared program has been highly successful over the years and has resulted in the contact of over 4,000 landowners with at least half of these being in the Hamilton Conservation Authority’s watershed. Many of these contacts have resulted in the establishment of Landowner Stewardship Agreements that are recognized annually by both organizations. Stewardship staff interact with many of these landowners and provide practical advice to improve water quality and/or habitat on their properties. In addition, as of December 2013, 112 landowners in Hamilton Conservation Authority’s watershed have undertaken projects on private properties to improve habitat and/or water quality. These projects for the most part have involved financial contributions from the HHWSP. The HHWSP has been viewed as a model for establishing stewardship programs in other areas of the province and has received awards such as the Trillium Great Grants Award for the Environmental Sector (Ontario Trillium Foundation) and Countryside Canada Natural Stewardship Recognition Award (Wildlife Habitat Canada) for its accomplishments.
While both the Hamilton and Halton Conservation Authorities contributed funding to the program for staffing and landowner contact, funds for the capital programs involving projects on private lands have typically been raised through different sources. Examples over the years include the following:
• Hamilton Conservation Authority’s Capital Program • Ontario Trillium Foundation • Environment Canada’s Great Lakes Sustainability Fund • Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change • City of Hamilton (well decommissioning program) • Environment Canada’s Habitat Stewardship Program (Species at Risk) • Canada/Ontario Agreement Funds (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources) • Ducks Unlimited Canada • RBC Blue Water Project • TD Friends of the Environment
Due to the nature of the grants and their respective requirements, the criteria may change from grant program to grant program in regards to the type of project funded, the grant rate and the upset amount of funding available for any particular project. This may also vary across the watershed as funds provided by the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund, for example, are only available for projects within the Hamilton Harbour Watersheds (e.g. Spencer Creek). Ideally, with these types of projects, there would be one funding source with one set of criteria.
In receiving grants for the projects, many grant programs require the establishment of a local technical advisory committee that would provide a review of the project submissions with respect to their eligibility and merits in meeting habitat and water quality objectives. The committees also have the benefit of providing peer review advice, as many of the committee members are landowners themselves.
The Project Technical Advisory Committee (PTAC) was formally established by the Advisory Boards and the full Boards of Directors of the two conservation authorities in 2009. The PTAC acts as a review and approval committee for funding applications under the HHWSP’s Water Quality and Habitat Improvement Project. Attached is the terms of reference that has been established for this committee and a list of the individuals who have volunteered to sit on the committee for the next term.
Staff is recommending that the committee be formally endorsed by Hamilton Conservation Authority. The term of appointment would run from April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016, which coincides with the typical fiscal year of the majority of the granting organizations. Recognition of the committee by Hamilton Conservation Authority would provide for formal support of the contribution made by the members of the committee to projects that are undertaken by the Hamilton Watershed Stewardship Program. A summary report will be brought back to the Conservation Advisory Board and the Hamilton Conservation Authority after the end of each program year (April to March).
STAFF COMMENT
Staff of the HHWSP appreciates the commitment that Project Technical Advisory Committee members have made to date to assist in the delivery of this program to watershed landowners. This report and resolution serves to formally recognize their work.
STRATEGIC PLAN LINKAGE
The initiative refers directly to the HCA Strategic Plan 2014-2018:
• Strategic Goal #1 – Water Management o Strategic Objective – Minimize the impacts of erosion and sedimentation on watershed streams, creek, rivers and receiving water bodies. o Strategic Objective – Maintain and enhance surface and ground water quality from the headwater source to Hamilton Harbour and Lake Ontario.
• Strategic Goal #2 – Natural Heritage Conservation o Strategic Objective - Minimize the impacts of urban and rural land uses on natural heritage features.
• Strategic Goal #4 – Education and Environmental Awareness o Strategic Objective – Collaborate with agencies and organizations to promote the importance and value of the watershed environment.
AGENCY COMMENTS
Funding agencies such as Environment Canada’s Great Lakes Sustainability Fund require these types of committees to review and approve projects and are very supportive of this committee. Conservation Halton will be approving a similar report to ensure formal recognition of the work of this committee. LEGAL/FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The members on the committee are not paid for their services but they are undertaking work on behalf of Hamilton Conservation Authority. By formally recognizing the committee, the volunteer committee members can be provided with insurance for their decisions through the Conservation Authority’s insurer. Adding the members as volunteers to our insurance does not affect the Hamilton Conservation Authority’s premiums. Annual endorsement of the PTAC members is recommended for insurance purposes.
CONCLUSIONS
The Hamilton-Halton Watershed Stewardship Program has been successfully utilizing this volunteer committee for the review of projects that are undertaken on private lands. Staff is recommending that Hamilton Conservation Authority formally recognize the committee and the contribution that it makes to assisting the Conservation Authority and the new Hamilton Watershed Stewardship Program in this important initiative.
TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE PROJECT TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
GOAL
To assist the Hamilton and Halton Watershed Stewardship Programs (HHWSP) in the implementation of their Water Quality/Habitat Improvement Programs (WQHIP) which serve to provide landowners with the technical and grant assistance necessary to improve water quality and habitat in the watersheds of Hamilton and Halton Conservation Authorities.
MANDATE
The Project Technical Advisory Committee (PTAC) is a voluntary advisory committee that approves grants for water quality and habitat improvement projects. PTAC has been established by the HHWSP in accordance with these adopted Terms of Reference. PTAC members are bound by these Terms of Reference and are ultimately responsible to the Hamilton Conservation Authority and Conservation Halton.
PURPOSE
The purpose of PTAC is to:
1. Sit as the grant approvals committee when it may: a) recommend eligible items under the WQHIP including grant rates and grant ceilings; b) ensure that the WQHIP is administered on a priority basis; c) review landowners’ grant applications submitted to the HHWSP; d) approve eligible grant applications under the WQHIP; and e) review WQHIP effectiveness as required.
2. Provide a forum for the exchange of information on agricultural, rural and urban issues and initiatives and to advise on potential concerns; and
3) Encourage public awareness and education of agricultural, rural and urban issues.
MEMBERSHIP
PTAC consists of the following volunteer members which are appointed for a term of three years with an option for a second term.
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• Agricultural Organizations • City of Hamilton • Conservation Halton • Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Committee • Halton Region • Hamilton Conservation Authority • Individual Landowners • Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources • Royal Botanical Gardens
PTAC members represent a variety of natural resources management, agricultural organizations and landowners. The representatives of organizations or agencies should have special urban, rural and agricultural qualifications, water quality and habitat interests and abilities, as well as the ability and willingness to devote the necessary time to PTAC.
MEETINGS
PTAC meets, annually, or as required. Agendas for meetings will be made available to PTAC one week in advance of meeting. Flexibility will allow meetings to be held in various locations throughout the communities that are most convenient for PTAC members. Meetings will be used to review Water Quality and/or Habitat Improvement Funding Application and Agreement forms, WQHIP program success, WQHIP Terms of Reference, and other determined topics.
SUPPORT STAFF
HHWSP staff will be assigned to provide secretariat and research support to PTAC. PTAC meeting minutes will be provided to PTAC members following each meeting.
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PROJECT TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS for the HAMILTON AND HALTON WATERSHED STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMS
Agricultural Organization Henry Swierenga, Member Service Representative, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Conservation Halton Samantha Mason, Senior Aquatic Ecologist Jennifer Roberts, Forestry Technician
Hamilton Conservation Authority Lesley McDonell, Terrestrial Ecologist
Individual Landowners Vic Cairns Philip Krakar John Shaw Paul Smith Charles Tilt
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Lorraine Norminton, District Planner
Royal Botanical Gardens Andrea Court, Ecologist
CONSERVATION AUTHORITY STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM STAFF RESPONSIBLE FOR PRESENTING LANDOWNERS’ GRANT APPLICATIONS TO PROJECT TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Cherish Elwell, Watershed Stewardship Technician, Hamilton Conservation Authority Phone: 905-525-2181, Ext. 181 Fax: 905-648-4622 Email: [email protected]
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Leanne Collett, Watershed Stewardship Technician, Dundas Urban Stormwater Stewardship Project, Hamilton Conservation Authority Phone: 905-525-2181 Ext. 196 Fax: 905-648-4622 Email: [email protected]
Sheila O’Neal, Watershed Stewardship Manager, Hamilton Conservation Authority Phone: 905-525-2181, Ext. 164 Fax: 905-648-4622 Email: Sheila.O’[email protected]
Colleen Lavender, Watershed Stewardship Technician, Conservation Halton Phone: 905-336-1158, Ext. 2263 Fax: 905-336-6684 Email: [email protected]
Kent Rundle, Stewardship Technician, Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System, Conservation Halton Phone: 905-336-1158, Ext. 2319 Fax: 905-336-6684 Email: [email protected]
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