The Pembina River watershed is characterized by its fertile soils, which have sustained a thriving agricultural community for over 100 years. Canada Land Inventory (CLI) is a comprehensive multi-disciplinary land inventory that identifies land capability for agriculture, forestry, wildlife, and recreation. The land capability for dryland agriculture is based on an evaluation of both internal and external soil characteristics that influence soil suitability and limitations for agricultural use. Class 1 lands have the highest, and Class 7 lands the lowest capability to support agricultural land use activities. Within the Pembina River watershed, 78% of the soils are classified as Class 1, 2 and 3. Approximately 20% of the soils are considered Class 4, 5 and 6. These classes have moderate to severe limitations for crop production and are often better suited to other land uses.
Soil characteristics provide important information in understanding the Pembina River watershed. The sloping topography of this area was shaped thousands of years ago during the retreat of the Laurentide ice sheet. There were two main modes of soil deposition in this watershed: glacial till in the western portion, and lacustrinePembina in the River eastern and central portions. Glacial till is Integrated Watershed Management Plan May, 2011 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan May, 2011
Project Management Team Brenda Seward, Myna Cryderman, Howard Ganske, Brian Hammond, Randy Hodge, Mur- ray Seymour, Cliff Greenfield, Barb Kingdon, Andrea McLean, Tim Teetaert, Keith Wallcraft, Yasmine Wruth, Neil Zalluski, Justin Reid, Jonathan Wiens
Prepared and Published by the Pembina River Watershed Planning Authority
in partnership with the Turtle Mountain Conservation District
and the Province of Manitoba
Partnering RMs Argyle, Killarney-Turtle Mountain, Lorne, Louise, Morton, Pembina, Riverside, Roblin, Stanley, Strathcona
The project management team was made up of dedicated individuals with a close connection to the Pembina River watershed. We are farmers, ranchers, RM coun- cillors, Conservation District managers, and landowners. We are proud of the re- sults of this plan, and are thankful to all the watershed residents who contributed to its development. We would like to dedicate this plan to long-time resident and farmer, Keith Wallcraft (1952 - 2010).
Watershed Plan Summary
The Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan was developed as a partnership between the Pembina Valley, Assiniboine Hills, and Turtle Mountain Conservation Districts, the Province of Manitoba and an engaged group of community stakeholders. The plan outlines tasks for residents, government agencies and other stakeholders that work towards conserving or restoring land, water, and protecting drinking water sources in the watershed.
This ten-year plan will act as a road map for anyone who wants to see this watershed support a healthy community in the future.
The planning process extended over two years and was completed in 2010.
The plan consists of four goals for the watershed:
1. Improve and maintain drinking water quality throughout the watershed (page 23); 2. Reduce algal blooms and improve surface water quality for residents wildlife, and recreation (page 26); 3. Protect our lakes and rivers from excess erosion (page 28); 4. Improve surface water management to reduce flooding, wetland loss, and protect aquatic ecosystems (page 30);
Over five million dollars will be directed towards conservation programming in this watershed over the next ten years. This plan will help ensure that money is allocated to areas where it will provide the most benefit. Governments, stakeholders and residents each have a role to play in ensuring this plan is successfully implemented. By developing new partnerships and integrating our resources we can look forward to measurable improvements in our watershed over the next ten years.
4 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 5 Introduction
“My family operates a grain and cattle farm near the Pembina beyond the scope of single jurisdictions like towns or municipalities, as well as consider River and we feel that all residents should respect this river and cumulative impacts of land use practices. help maintain this watershed as a great place to live, work The Pembina River watershed is situated and play.” – Resident, Pembina River Watershed along the Canada-US boundary spanning ten municipalities in Manitoba and four This integrated watershed counties in North Dakota. This diverse management plan will be watershed covers an area of 10,521 square a tool used by residents, kilometers (3,958 square miles) and is one of government agents and many watersheds that contribute to the Red other stakeholders, to assist River basin. This management plan will be in making responsible dealing primarily with the Canadian side of decisions on how we the Pembina River watershed 5,155 square manage water, land kilometers (1939.42 square miles) but will development, drainage, draw upon a Canada-US joint planning and allocate conservation initiative begun in 1998 and led by the dollars. Pembina River Basin Advisory Board.
Birds at Manitou - Photo by D. Bonner In Manitoba, resource managers are moving towards a watershed- esidents of the Pembina River based management philosophy. Watersheds watershed are fortunate to have are considered the most ecologically and bountiful supplies of clean and administratively appropriate units for accessibleR fresh water. Water has defined managing water. Water flows downstream the agricultural industry, society and through a watershed and any activity that culture of Manitoba’s Pembina region. It happens upstream affects what happens is the responsibility of all residents, and the downstream. government representatives charged with water protection, to ensure our water remains Working within watersheds gives people clean, and in bountiful supply for the health the opportunity to address water quality, and prosperity of future generations. quantity, community and habitat issues
6 The first section of this plan outlines each need to be managed differently than others. Guiding Principle of the four goals. Each goal has a list of Utilizing the most relevant and up-to- recommended actions and a map detailing date information helped us select the most Maintain and improve the health of the where they should occur. The second section achievable solutions. Understanding the watershed in order to protect and enhance of this report provides the supporting connection between landscape features, how water sources and quality, ensure biological information used to help decide where the we use the land, and the quality and quantity diversity and a healthy ecosystem. These recommended actions are most required. of downstream water is critical to the long- actions will in turn provide social and term health and prosperity of residents in the economic benefits and future sustainability This section of the plan has many maps Pembina River watershed. to the residents of the watershed and society outlining why some sections of the watershed in general.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 7 Soils and Landscape of the Pembina River Watershed
Geology and Soils
he Pembina River watershed is characterized by its fertile soils, which have sustained a thriving agriculturalT community for over 100 years. Canada Land Inventory (CLI) is a comprehensive multi-disciplinary land inventory that identifies land capability for agriculture, forestry, wildlife, and recreation. The land capability for dryland agriculture is based on an evaluation of both internal and external soil characteristics that influence soil suitability and limitations for agricultural use. Class 1 lands have the highest, and Class 7 lands the lowest capability to support agricultural land use activities. Within the Pembina River watershed, 78% of the soils are classified as Class 1, 2 and 3. Approximately 20% of the soils are considered Class 4, 5 and 6. These classes have moderate to severe limitations for crop production and are often better suited to other land uses.
8 Golf course on the Pembina River - Photo by D. Bonner
Soil characteristics provide important information in understanding the Pembina River watershed. The sloping topography of this area was shaped thousands of years ago during the retreat of the Laurentide ice sheet. There were two main modes of soil deposition in this watershed: glacial till in the western portion, and lacustrine in the eastern and central portions. Glacial till is specifically noted in areas around Rock Lake and between Swan Lake and the Pembina Escarpment. Shale till can present challenges to landowners in these areas as it can lead to extensive erosion problems.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 9 Soils and Landscape of the Pembina River Watershed
Topography
The elevation in the Pembina River watershed descends from 721 metres above sea level (masl) (2364 feet above sea level) in the southwestern corner of the watershed, down to 330 masl (1082 fasl) in the southeastern corner of the watershed. The Pembina River carves a path through a deep valley, especially in the eastern portion of the watershed. In the extreme southeastern portion of the watershed (across the American border) the Pembina River descends into the Red River valley where the landscape is very flat, and the slope is minimal. There are numerous stretches within this watershed where the Pembina River can overflow its banks and flood large tracts of land. Water Erosion Risk
There are large areas in the Pembina River watershed where there is a high risk of water erosion and sediment transport. These areas are calculated based on slope length, slope gradient, soil type, and are based on bare, unprotected soils. Land management practices can play a large role in preventing erodible sites from becoming problem areas.
10 Shale Trap
Shale Erosion and Solutions
One of the goals in the watershed is to look at placing shale traps in the Cypress Creek to reduce the shale loading of the Pembina River just downstream of Rock Lake. By lowering the shale load being transported downstream this will allow the river through natural processes to create a larger channel and lessen the duration of flooding in Rock Lake.
A shale trap is a fish friendly dam or weir structure placed in a stream that captures shale and other larger mobile sediments. It is not meant to restrict flow but to create a pool of water upstream of the dam that allows the shale to settle out and remain behind the weir.
The dam or weir lessens the gradient of the river and will act to reduce erosion because of the flatter slope of the stream.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 11 Water in the Pembina River Watershed
Water Quantity hydrometric gauging stations throughout the watershed. The oldest station is located Water Flooding Story he Pembina River originates in at Windygates, with data from this station “Floods in the Pembina River watershed the Turtle Mountains and flows extending back to 1962. The hydrometric usually come slowly and stay a while. in an easterly direction across data indicates that stream-flow in the southernT Manitoba, connecting Pelican while.Due to Duethis regions to this well-slopedregions well-sloped topogra - Pembina River is highly variable and many of topography,phy, flooding flooding is usually is limitedusually limitedto the Val- Lake, Rock Lake and Swan Lake. Major its tributaries are intermittent. tributaries include the Long River, Badger toley the region. Valley In region. the Canadian In the Canadian portion of Creek, Cypress Creek, Snowflake Creek, and Further flow variability may be experienced portionthe Pembina of the River Pembina watershed, River watershed, flooding is Mowbray Creek. The Pembina River crosses as the impacts of climate change are realized. floodinglinked to isplentiful linked tomoisture, plentiful and moisture, because the American border near Windygates and Maintaining water on the land will improve andthis regionbecause generally this region has generally a ‘moisture- has a finally meets the Red River near Pembina, the sustainability and resiliency of the ‘moisture-deficit’,deficit’, this is usually this isa goodusually thing a good for North Dakota. ecosystem and ensure that residents will be thingfarming. for farming. When you When are in you a drought are in a it’s able to enjoy the habitat and resources of the droughthard to growit’s hard anything. to grow The anything. 1980s Thewere The Province of Manitoba, in partnership watershed for generations to come. 1980svery dry were and very the dryPembina and the River Pembina totally with Environment Canada, operates 20 Riverdried uptotally in 1988. dried upThere in 1988. was little There flow wasin the little spring flow and in littlethe spring rainfall. and Thislittle rainfall.meant that This the cropmeant yields that forthe the crop for yields the formost the part most were part lower. were” lower. ” – Cliff Greenfield, Pembina Valley Conservation District Manager
“The flooding is an inconvenience but not life threatening, the dry will kill you, you can’t eat dust and nothing grows without moisture.” - Resident,Anonymous Resident, Pembina River watershed
Figure 5. Annual flow volumes on the Pembina River at Windygates Manitoba.
12 When It Rains It Pours previous 60 years and some producers “My father and grandfather farmed near Pembina Valley Watershed Management Plan are having a tough time adjusting to this here for 60 years and only experienced “Agricultural land in a flood plan will get change. Ryan and Christine Andries two large floods. We have farmed here for flooded, and this is to be expected. The farm alongside of the Pembina River near 20 years and have had seven significant Pembina Valley is no stranger to this Swan Lake and count on getting a late floods. Our buildings are not threatened phenomenon and producers are impacted hay crop off their floodplain. They have but we have lost a lot of valuable hay over when large floods inundate the floodplain. struggled over the last few years because of those years that we hadn’t banked on. We Agriculture is a risky business and living in the duration and intensity of the flooding also feel that it’s going to get worse before a floodplain makes it that much more so. and the sometimes back to back spring it gets better so we don’t count on that The flow record shows that this watershed and summer floods.” – Cliff Greenfield, income anymore.” – Ryan and Christie has experienced more significant flooding Pembina Valley Conservation District Andries in the last 20 years than it had in the Manager
The Pelican Lake Enhancement Project The Province of Manitoba is required to used to raise Rock Lake water levels during utilizes three control structures to regulate a target level range of 411.54 to periods of low flow. Killarney Lake’s managewater levels on the Pembina 412.00 masl. The Pelican Lake Advisory water level is regulated to improve water River and Pelican Lake. The operation Committee provides input to the Province quality, and maintain water levels sufficient of the control structures are regulated on how the control structures are to be for recreational, flood prevention, and based on the conditions outlined by the operated. The Rock Lake control structure drinking water use. Environment Act Licence #1426 RR. located at the outlet of the lake is
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 13 Water Quality 1.8 Environment Canada maintains one long- term water quality monitoring station 1.6 52.1% increase in median TP concentration from 1974 to in the extreme southeast portion of the 1.4 1999 (p<0.0001) watershed. According to recent analysis, total phosphorus (TP) concentration at this 1.2
site increased by 52.1% from 1975 to 1999. 1 Excessive phosphorus loading can have a detrimental effect on aquatic ecosystems. mg/L 0.8 The researchers suggest that this substantial 0.6 increase in phosphorus is caused by human activities on the landscape. 0.4
More recently, an increase in nutrient levels 0.2 throughout the Pembina River watershed 0 has caused large algal blooms in Killarney, 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 Pelican, Rock and Swan lakes. These blooms Time have impaired drinking water quality, caused significant fish kills, and have hampered Figure 6. Trend in total phosphorus concentration in the Pembina River near Windygates, MB, 1974 to 1999 (inclusive). Dots represent measured concentrations, while the solid line represents the trend in flow adjusted recreational activities. concentrations. The percent change in median concentration refers to the median concentration of the flow- adjusted trend line (Manitoba Conservation Report No. 2001-07. Web address: http://www.gov.mb.ca/waterstewardship/reports/quality/trend_report.pdf
Killarney Lake – A lake in need of help….
In 1996 the Killarney Lake Water Quality Committee was established to address concerns over severe algal blooms and declining water quality in Killarney Lake. A number of initiatives were put into place including re-directing nutrient rich spring runoff water from entering the lake by large control gates; an informational kiosk at the beach; confined swimming area at the public beach; and others. Despite these initiatives, algal blooms remain a significant concern. Recently, the Killarney Lake Action Committee was formed to address specific actions that can be taken to reduce the impacts of algae. The Committee is committed to innovative means to alleviate algal blooms including harvesting algae, public education about nutrient control, aeration, etc. as well as working to reduce nutrient contributions through upstream watershed management.
14 Rock Lake in Summer - C. Greenfield
Why is water quality always such a problem in our lakes?
Lakes in south-western Manitoba’s prairies have always been susceptible to algal blooms and fish winterkills. The shallow nature of our lakes, coupled with the abundance of naturally occurring nutrients in the surrounding watershed creates this situation. Since the 1970’s however, scientist have detected a significant increase in nutrient concentrations in the Pembina River. There is no one ‘silver bullet’ to solve this problem. It’s going to take hard work from all of us to reduce nutrients from things like:
• Increased output from urban waste water treatment system
• Improperly functioning private septic systems
• Increased intensive agricultural production
• Loss of permanent natural cover, especially along waterways
• Loss of wetlands
• Increased cottage and residential development around major lakes
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 15 Public Drinking Water
There are 15 public water systems in the Pembina River watershed that provide treated drinking water for over 5,000 residents. Four of these public water systems treat surface water from local lakes or reservoirs. Ten obtain water from groundwater wells. One obtains water from both sources. Two of these public. Two of these public drinking water systems have been under boil water advisories in the last five years. Residents who are not connected to a public water system obtain their drinking water from private or semi-public sources (usually a groundwater well). Drinking water assessments for each public water system can be found in Appendix B.
Groundwater
Groundwater is the primary water source for most residents in the Pembina River watershed. The expansive Odanah shale aquifer underlies the central and eastern portion of the watershed. A second aquifer, the Turtle Mountain Formation, predominates in the uplands of the western portion of the watershed. Water quality across these two bedrock aquifers ranges from fair to poor, with naturally occurring iron and manganese often found above drinking water guidelines. Nitrate and bacteria contamination often causes drinking water guidelines to be exceeded at individual well sites due to poor well head conditions.
16 Wellhead - Photo by D. Bonner
Substantially better water quality can be found in scattered unconfined sand and gravel aquifers. These aquifers are of limited size and are more susceptible to contamination. Deep buried valley aquifers are also found in this watershed, and although they are very deep and difficult to locate, they can be a source of high quantity and quality groundwater.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 17 Aquatic Ecosystems
The Pembina River is home to a wide array of aquatic species and ecosystems. Fisheries habitat assessments were conducted in 1997, 2003, and 2009 to investigate the quality of fish habitat, water quality, channel morphology, bank vegetation, and fish migration barriers. These studies revealed 85 potential rehabilitation sites in the watershed, and noted that degraded riparian zone, sedimentation, and unmanaged livestock access to be the main sources impairing habitat quality.
“A concentrated effort in riparian protection management in this watershed would likely have a significant impact in improving and protecting water quality”
- Bruno Bruederlin, Fisheries Biologist - Manitoba Water Stewardship
18 Manitoba Water Stewardship annually stocks walleye fry in the following lakes:
• Boissevain Reservoir • Killarney Lake • Pelican Lake • Rock Lake • Goudney Reservoir • Mary Jane Reservoir
Rainbow trout are stocked in Bower Lake. Brown trout are stocked in Lake William.
To prevent the winter kill of fish, aeration systems are operated annually on the following lakes:
• Boissevain Reservoir • Killarney Lake • Goudney Reservoir • Mary Jane Reservoir • Bower Lake
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 19
Fishing at the Pembina River People in the Pembina River change.These settlers quickly changed Watershed the shape of the landscape. The land was divided into parcels and quickly The area encompassing the Pembina given to new settlers looking for fertile River watershed has a long history of farmland. human activity. It is estimated that the first people to occupy the area lived on Agriculture required breaking large the shores of Lake Agassiz over 10,000 tracts of land and draining wetlands to years ago. accommodate growing crops.
First Nation groups including the Cree, In present times, local residents and Assiniboine, and Saulteaux lived in the governments work to ensure the area and made use of the rich natural natural ecosystem of the Pembina resources. Bison, fish, and edible plants River watershed will remain prosperous served as the basis for their subsistence for future generations. lifestyle.
As settlers from Ontario and Quebec began moving west, the lifestyle of local peoples began to dramatically
20 A vibrant and diverse agricultural the emergence of large-scale agro-business, community has been sustained in the creating larger farms but fewer farmers. Pembina River watershed for over 100 Wetland drainage has also been facilitated by years. Over this time, agricultural practices the increased capability of new agricultural and the structure of rural communities has equipment, and pressures to harvest higher changed. These changes have occurred due yields. The accumulated loss of wetlands to global market factors and improvements over many years has had a cascading negative in agricultural technology. Some changes effect across the watershed. have occurred as a result of improvements to land management, such as the change in Photo by D. Bonner tillage practices over the last 35 years to an increase in conservation tillage and a decrease in summerfallowed and conventionally tilled land. Other changes have occurred as a result of commercial fertilizer usage and
La Rivière - Photo by D. Bonner
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 21 What are the issues in the Pembina River Watershed?
atershed residents, previous biodiversity, and groundwater recharge are • Manitoba Cattle Producers Association watershed plans, stakeholders, disappearing. • Manitoba Water Stewardship and technical experts helped The following studies and plans were used • Pembina Valley Conservation District Wdevelop the following five watershed issue in identifying issues: • Pembina Valley Protection Association statements. Specific problem site locations • Swan Lake First Nation were recorded for each of these issues. • Fisheries Enhancement Evaluation for the • Turtle Mountain Conservation District • Flooding - The frequency and severity (Lower) Pembina River (1997) of spring and summer flooding is costing • Goudney Source Water Protection Action municipalities and landowners too much Plan (2007) The project management money in damaged infrastructure and loss of • Killarney Lake and Watershed crops. team considered all of this Management Plan information in developing • Surface Water Quality - The rivers and • Pembina River Basin Watershed lakes in this watershed are saturated with too the following four goals Management Plan (2005) much algae in the summer months resulting for the Pembina River in poor recreation opportunities, and • Upper Pembina River Fisheries Study (2006) integrated watershed unhealthy water for residents and wildlife. Numerous technical experts and stakeholders management plan: • Drinking Water Quality - There is a worked together to create the Pembina River 1. Improve and maintain drinking lack of confidence in the drinking water Watershed Team, they included: water quality throughout quality throughout the watershed. • A Rocha the watershed. • Soil Loss/Erosion - Lakes and rivers are • Agriculture Canada - Agriculture 2. Reduce algal blooms and becoming clogged by the large amount of Environmental Services Branch improve surface water quality for shale and silt eroding into our waterways. residents, wildlife, and • Assiniboine Hills Conservation District outdoor recreation. • Drainage - There are a wide range of issues • Department of Fisheries and Oceans 3. Protect our lakes and rivers from surrounding drainage in this watershed. • Keystone Agricultural Producers excess erosion. Better drainage control and planning is • Manitoba Agriculture, Food, 4. Improve surface water required. Large scale illegal drainage is and Rural Initiatives management to reduce flooding, creating major problems for downstream • Manitoba Conservation wetland loss, and protect aquatic landowners. The services provided by ecosystems. wetlands including drought resilience, flood • Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization dampening, water quality improvements, • Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation • Manitoba Intergovernmental Affairs
22 Goal 1 – Improve and maintain This approach to water management • Ensure that all Planning District drinking water quality throughout requires consideration of activities in Development Plans continue to protect the watershed. the entire watershed, or the area of land and manage development activities around that contributes to that stream, lake or public drinking water sources. Ensure that groundwater aquifer. all future Planning District Development Plans recognize the goals and objectives of How are we going to achieve this goal: this integrated watershed management plan Create a high level of public awareness about and the associated drinking water source protecting and maintaining groundwater assessments. for semi-public and private wells. Local Conservation Districts should provide • Provide increased education and financial increased: incentives for nutrient management: • Managed livestock grazing, off-site Blue-green algae on Rock Lake • Education on groundwater quality, well watering, riparian area management, soil development, maintenance, and well head testing, variable rate fertilizer application, protection. Reason for Goal: Protecting water at its manure management and fertilizer source, or before it arrives at drinking • Provide targeted financial assistance for management. water treatment facilities, is a preventative, groundwater quality testing, well head assessments, well sealing and shock • Erect signs to remind boaters that they are multi-barrier approach to drinking water boating on a public drinking water source. protection. Although much of the water in chlorination. • Provide education to residents on who they Manitoba requires some treatment to meet Actions aimed at protecting drinking should contact if they witness polluting, drinking water quality guidelines, it is less water quality for Public Water fouling, or contamination of a public expensive and more ecologically responsible Systems include: drinking water source (surface water or to prevent contamination to our source groundwater). waters than to try and remediate water • Implement actions identified in drinking quality in treatment facilities. Protecting water source assessments. (Appendix B) drinking water quality at its source also • Promote the protection of wetlands, Public Health Inspectors, under protects local aquatic ecosystems such riparian areas, and permanent cover. Secure authority of the Public Health Act, as streams and lakes, and ensures the Conservation Agreements with private are able to follow up on complaints continued quality of groundwater aquifers. landowners to conserve drinking water regarding polluting, fouling, or This approach to water management quality. contamination of public drinking water requires consideration of activities in • Promote a net gain of wetlands and healthy sources: the entire watershed, or the area of land riparian areas in public drinking water sub- Killarney (204-523-5285) that contributes to that stream, lake or watersheds. groundwater aquifer. Morden (204-822-2850) • Investigate the feasibility of purchasing a water circulation unit as a pilot project to improve drinking water quality.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 23 Drinking Water Protection Recommendations from public drinking water source assessments in the Pembina River watershed A drinking water protection committee conducted a preliminary assessment on the Public Water System Recommended Action
15 water sources that supply public water Boissevain (Groundwater) Install barrier around well heads. systems in the Pembina River watershed. The assessment protocol and procedures used in Boissevain (Surface Water) Reduce nutrient inputs from the sub-watershed. this assessment were derived from a report Install fence barrier to create a five metre buffer around Cartwright (Groundwater) entitled “Manitoba Source Water Assessment well head. Recommended Method for Public Water Christian Enrichment Family Camp (Groundwater) Seal all abandoned wells within 1.5 km of the well head. Systems”, and are found in Appendix B of Develop a new well that is not directly influenced by sur- this plan. It is important to note that the Clearwater (Groundwater) face water. assessment process is qualitative and is a part Reduce nutrient inputs from the subwatershed. Develop of multi-barrier approach to assessing threats an effective septic system educational campaign. Deliver to public drinking water. A summary of this Killarney (Surface Water) an enhanced inspection program of waste-water systems on residential properties in sensitive areas to ensure water non-technical process is described below. quality is being protected. Consider relocating nearby septic tank further from the Manhattan Beach Retreat Center (Groundwater) Each water source supplying a public water well heads. (Current distance 10 metres). system was mapped and a buffer was applied around the withdrawal point. Buffers are important management tools, because areas nearer to a withdrawal point are more likely to influence water quality than an area that is further away. For groundwater systems, the area within a 1.5 kilometre radius of the well head was reviewed. For surface water sources the review area included the entire sub-watershed. A site visit was conducted by a provincial and municipal representatives and a local resident to look at land activities within these buffer areas. An informal list of potential pollutant sources or risks was created. For each public water system the top few threats identified by this team are presented below, as well as a list of recommended actions that we believe will reduce risk and work to protect the source of drinking water for the thousands of residents
24 receiving their primary drinking water from Recommendations from public drinking water source assessments in the Manitou (Surface Water) Reduce nutrient inputs from the sub-watershed. Pembina River watershed a public system. Control beaver activity on adjacent waterway to prevent Public Water System Recommended Action Pelican Shores RV Park (Groundwater) flooding of the well head. The next step in this multi-barrier approach Boissevain (Groundwater) Install barrier around well heads. is an “Assessment of Water System Pilot Mound (Surface Water) Reduce nutrient inputs from the sub-watershed. Infrastructure and Water Supply Sources”. Boissevain (Surface Water) Reduce nutrient inputs from the sub-watershed. This process is conducted by the owner of the Pleasant Valley (Groundwater) Seal all abandoned wells within 1.5 km of the well head. Install fence barrier to create a five metre buffer around Public Water System, and ensures that the Cartwright (Groundwater) well head. treatment provides appropriate protection to Rock Lake Beach (Groundwater) Develop and maintain a new well. Christian Enrichment Family Camp (Groundwater) Seal all abandoned wells within 1.5 km of the well head. the drinking water users. Upgrade both well head sites with a new casing and fenc- Develop a new well that is not directly influenced by sur- St. Leon (Groundwater) Health Canada has put forth a federal Clearwater (Groundwater) ing. Create a five metre vegetated buffer around well 2. face water. approach to source water protection on Reduce nutrient inputs from the subwatershed. Develop Raise the existing well casing. Consider relocating nearby an effective septic system educational campaign. Deliver Strathcona Memorial Park (Groundwater) septic tank further from the well head. Develop a new well federal lands. The Water Planning Authority Killarney (Surface Water) an enhanced inspection program of waste-water systems that is not directly influenced by surface water. will endeavor to carry out any watershed on residential properties in sensitive areas to ensure water recommendations resulting from this quality is being protected. Swan Lake (Groundwater) Install a five metre buffer fence around the well head. Consider relocating nearby septic tank further from the assessment or partner with the Swan Lake Manhattan Beach Retreat Center (Groundwater) well heads. (Current distance 10 metres). First Nation to apply a similar assessment Willam Lake (Surface Water) None identified. as above.
Birds at Matthy’s Slough - Photo by D. Bonner
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 25 Goal 2 – Reduce algal blooms and dangerous toxins. At the three public Recommendations for this goal have been improve surface water quality for meetings held in 2008, all residents divided into: residents, wildlife, and outdoor expressed a desire to see improvements in the recreation. water quality of our lakes and rivers. • Incentive based programming for agricultural producers Reason for Goal: Every year extensive How we are going to achieve this goal: • Education and awareness for all watershed algal blooms emerge on water bodies in By working cooperatively with landowners, residents our watershed. The primary cause of our agricultural producers, cottage owners, decreasing surface water quality is increasing rural municipalities, and the federal and • Municipal programs nutrient run-off from human sewage, provincial governments. Water quality in • Partner programs agriculture, and unsustainable development. many parts of the Pembina River watershed Incentive based programming for High levels of nitrogen and phosphorus is very poor, and change will only occur if agricultural producers: increase production of algae and aquatic there is a concerted and targeted response plants. This process causes serious problems, by all partners, especially municipalities and Conservation Districts and Manitoba including: changes to aquatic life habitat, planning districts. If we maintain status Agriculture, Food, and Rural Initiatives will reduced levels of oxygen, and increased taste quo, water in the Pembina River watershed provide increased financial support to assist and odour problems in drinking water. In residents will see more algal blooms and face producers in implementing addtion, some forms of algae can produce a degraded aquatic ecosystem.
26 Goal 2 Con’t
beneficial management practices such as off‐ site site watering, riparian fencing, manure management, and winter site management. Efforts will be targeted to the “Valley and River Zone” where it will be most effective.
• Financial support will be provided to help producers implement actions identified in their Environmental Farm Plan. • Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation and Ducks Unlimited Canada will secure Conservation Agreements with willing landowners to conserve and restore wetlands in key areas of the watershed.
Education and awareness for all Pembina River at Sheffield Bridge watershed residents:
• Education and awareness will be provided • Manitoba Conservation will offer an an appropriate location along the Pembina on the proper management of private septic enhanced inspection program of wastewater River. systems and the hazards resulting from the systems on residential properties in sensitive releases of E.coli, and nutrients. • Review the “Development Capacity” of all areas to ensure water quality is being the major lakes in this watershed. • Provide increased education on beneficial protected. management practices for nutrient • Promote the ‘Water Soft Paths’ approach to Partner Programs management to crop and livestock producers. reducing water use for drinking water and • Ensure that Crown Lands continue to be • Educational programs such as Envirothon, wastewater treatment. ‘Water Soft Paths’ managed in an environmentally sustainable Riverwatch and Water Festivals will be is a holistic water use planning approach manner to minimize potential impacts on offered to all schools in the watershed. that focuses on water demand management and strives to reduce water use through water quality. innovation, conservation, reallocation and • All organizations will work towards Provincial and Municipal Programs: changing use and re-use while working establishing an Environmental Goods and within ecological limits. Services Program. • Manitoba Water Stewardship, Manitoba • Manitoba Water Stewardship - Water • Allocate funding and effort to address water Conservation, Rural Municipalities, and Quality Section will consider establishing a quality concerns near Kelly’s Ravine north of communities will work together to improve long term water quality sampling station at Rock Lake. the quality of water released from waste water treatment facilities.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 27 Goal 3 – Protect our lakes and rivers drainage ditches, and poorly designed Recommendations for this goal have been from excess erosion. infrastructure development can cause excess divided into: erosion. There are large areas of the Pembina Reason for Goal: Although land erosion River watershed that are at a high or severe • Financial incentives for landowners to occurs naturally throughout the watershed, risk of water erosion. implement erosion control the rate of erosion can be enhanced by land • Education and awareness for all use changes. Erosion leads to siltation of How we are going to achieve this goal: watershed residents our waterways, turbid water, exaggerated By working to offer targeted incentive flooding, lower land values and higher programming, education, and projects aimed • Conducting targeted erosion control projects infrastructure costs. Land use changes at erosion control and prevention. in key areas such as clearing of permanent vegetation, • Conducting a surface water management improperly maintained study to identify retention areas
28 Recommendations to get the most bang- managed grazing systems, grassed waterways for-our-buck: and sowing of permanent cover (trees, forage). • Focus our efforts in the areas that need it the most, which include: • Provide increased financial support for the • Water Erosion Risk Zone implementation of beneficial management practices for water erosion control in areas • Shale Trap Erosion Zone with severe and high water erosion risk. • Soil Erosion Focus Area • Provide public education on the cause of Programs and projects to help clean up erosion in the watershed, and solutions for our lakes and rivers: managing local problems. • Secure Conservation Agreements (or other • Provide education to agricultural producers agreements) with private landowners to on the implementation best management ensure that existing permanent cover is practices for water erosion control on private protected across the watershed. lands. Promote appropriate tillage practices, Concrete rubble used for bank stabilization
• Conduct a surface water management study to identify the most effective water retention zones in each sub-watershed. • Conservation Districts, Manitoba Water Stewardship, and Rural Municipalities will work together to help develop water retention areas and targeted erosion control projects in the Soil Erosion Focus Area. • Shale traps will be developed in the Shale Trap Erosion Zone. • Address 10 project sites in the Upper Pembina River Fisheries and Riparian Study (1996). • Address five project sites in the Fisheries Enhancement Study for the Pembina River (2001). Long River • Address 10 project sites in the Long River Fisheries Study (2009).
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 29 Goal 4 – Improve surface water of severe flood events and focus land use How we’re going to achieve this goal: management to reduce flooding, practices that better suit the environment. Incrementally and over the long term. wetland loss, and protect aquatic Water management improvements take time During the public consultation process, ecosystems. and a significant amount of effort. The role many watershed residents expressed that of wetlands in maintaining watershed health their top priorities were to protect drinking Reason for Goal: The combination of requires greater recognition. Finding ways water quality and improve surface water wetland loss and expanded agricultural to encourage landowners to restore lost quality. To meet these priorities, the drainage development in upstream portions wetlands and appreciate existing wetlands traditional role of surface water management of the watershed contribute to spring and will help us achieve this goal. summer flood events that damage crops in this Pembina River watershed will need to and frustrate landowners. Protecting be expanded, and include a wider variety of The Pembina River watershed is diverse in natural water retention areas and creating goals and tools. topography, soil capability and geology. management policies that respect the natural landscape will help to reduce the impacts
30 Land and water management practices in Districts and Rural Municipalities receive The following recommendations work an area characterized by steep hills, highly copies, and are permitted to comment, on towards minimizing flooding and erosion, erosive soils and significant flows will require all Water Control Works and Drainage conserving wildlife habitat and enhancing a different approach than an area situated License applications proposed within their outdoor recreation. in a valley bottom with flat topography and boundaries. Ensure that a Water Control productive soils. Within this plan, incentive Works and Drainage Licensing Officer meets • Manage river flows through the use of programs and management policies have with every conservation district board on an water control structures (Pelican Lake water been tailored to fit the natural features of annual basis to discuss the drainage licensing control structure, Rock Lake water control three distinct zones. In addition, 71 “Surface process and provide updates on any structures, culverts, sheet pile weirs, man- Water Problem Sites” were identified in local concerns. made riffles). meetings with residents, rural municipalities, • Provide better direction to landowners • Develop and maintain open communication and provincial engineers. Detailed on how to get the latest flood forecast with the landowners and authorities in the descriptions of these sites are available at information for the Pembina River from American portion of the watershed. Conservation District offices and include Pelican Lake to Swan Lake. • Conduct a surface water management study flooding concerns upstream of the Sheffield • Consider purchasing flood prone lands to identify the most effective water retention Bridge and at the outlet of Rock Lake. to allow for the restoration of the natural zones in each sub-watershed. Construct Existing structures at these sites are perceived Pembina River floodplain. Prioritize land water retention structures at identified sites. to be causing a constriction of flow in the downstream of Pelican Lake. Pembina River. Valley and River Zone: • Investigate repairing, replacing, or removing General Watershed Zone: This region is situated along the Pembina the control structure/fish ladder at La This region is characterized by gently Valley bottom and connects a chain of lakes Rivière to improve fish passage and aquatic rolling topography, thriving agricultural with controlled outlet structures. Residents ecosystem health. in this area enjoy beautiful recreational areas community, and rich soils. The following • Maintain natural biodiversity, including recommendations work towards but experience frequent flood events due to their downstream location in the watershed. aquatic ecosystems, by encouraging strengthening this productive agricultural conservation of riparian areas. region and finding opportunities to conserve This zone also captures much of the and restore wetlands and permanent cover. downstream end of major rivers and creeks • Conduct feasibility studies on the in the watershed, including valuable fisheries construction or restoration of water control • Promote no-net-loss of wetlands. and wildlife habitat located along waterways structures at the outlet of both Rock and • Promote the retention of natural and and their riparian areas. Water levels are Swan lakes. permanent cover to allow water infiltration managed at three locations in this zone. and reduced water run-off. • Provide incentives for the retention and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas. • Ensure that there is uniformity in Water Control Works and Drainage Licensing, policies and enforcement across the watershed. Ensure that Conservation
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 31 • The Turtle Mountain Zone: • Consultations are held with the Watershed • Ecological integrity is maintained This region is characterized by a sharp Planning Authority and neighbouring when any future developments (roads, elevation change. Water runs quickly off Conservation Districts before Crown Land subdivisions, access points) are considered the Turtle Mountains and flows into the Management Plans are implemented. around isolated water bodies on Crown Lands. Long and Pembina rivers. The following • A 30 metre riparian buffer zone is recommendations work towards minimizing maintained around water bodies when downstream flooding and fast water run-off brush clearing is required. into severe and high risk water erosion areas.
• Promote no-net-loss of wetlands. • Conduct a surface water management study to identify the most effective water retention zones in each sub-watershed. Construct water retention structures at identified sites. Focus area includes Orthez Creek. • Promote the retention of natural and permanent cover to allow water infiltration and reduced water run-off. • Encourage agricultural beneficial management practice demonstration sites on Crown Lands. • Ensure that: • Crown Lands continue to be managed with a high level of consideration for watershed health. • All new Crown Land Management Plans recognize the goals and objectives of this Integrated Watershed Management Plan.
Binney - Photo by D. Bonner
32 Implementation
n order to ensure that this watershed • All new and existing Conservation District plan will be implemented over the members will utilize this plan when next ten years, time, effort, and prioritizing programs and projects in their fundingI will need to be allocated to all four respective subdistricts (Figure 14). goals. Appendix A outlines the specific • As the Water Planning Authority for the recommended actions, timelines, and Pembina River Watershed, the Pembina evaluation factors for all lead organizations. Valley Conservation District will be responsible for hosting an annual meeting Conservation Districts Canoeing the Pembina River of the Conservation District Managers to - Photo by D. Bonner • Over five million dollars in funding discuss programming, projects and progress is proposed for Conservation district towards the goals of the Pembina River programming in this watershed over the next Integrated Watershed Management Plan. 10 years. • All three Conservation Districts will use this plan in developing and implementing their annual budgets and staff work plans.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 33 Partners
A large team of government and non- government agencies have identified themselves as having the ability to contribute to the implementation of this plan. Participating organizations are listed beside their respective actions in Appendix A. A Pembina River integrated watershed management implementation meeting will be hosted by the Pembina River Water Planning Authority every three years to check up on how all aspects of the plan are being implemented. Linkages to Development Plans
Development Plans are policy documents that reflect provincial land use policies and local policies. This document is intended to help guide those responsible for making local land use decisions and approving local development activities. These plans Survey Crew on Pembina River also set out zoning by-laws and restrictions for residential, commercial, recreation, and industrial land uses. The Pembina • The Killarney and Turtle Mountain A vital action identified by watershed River Water Planning Authority recognizes Planning District residents in the development of the Pembina the close linkage between the Pembina River integrated watershed management • The Louise Planning District River Watershed Planning and the eight plan was the need to continue to protect and development plans currently in place in • The South Central Planning District manage development activities around public this watershed. By working together, both • The Roblin-Cartwright Planning District drinking water sources. development planning and watershed • The Morden Stanley Thompson Winkler The following policies should be adopted in planning can help result in improved Planning District future development plans. watershed health for the benefit of all residents. • The Morton Boissevain Planning District • The Pembina Manitou Planning District • The 23 West Planning District
34 1. Intensive and high-pollution risk not possible, that minimum setback of 3. To Review the “Development Capacity” development activities, (land uses and 30 metres be considered adjacent and of all the major lakes in this watershed. structures that have a high risk of causing upslope of the high-water mark. This process involves conducting a study pollution and include, but are not limited to • That the natural vegetative cover be to determine the number of cottages and chemical/ fertilizer storage facilities, disposal retained or rehabilitated within the above housing developments that a lake can fields, fuel tanks, waste disposal grounds, setback distances in the above noted support without compromising the lakes wastewater treatment facilities) will be water bodies; water quality or ecological functions. restricted in public drinking water source • That no alteration is made to the near A Conservation District, Planning zones (Figure 10). Where restriction is not shore aquatic habitat unless the activity District, Local Government, Manitoba possible, development may be considered in adheres to a Fisheries and Oceans Canada Water Stewardship, and a private public drinking water source zones provided: Operational Statement or is reviewed by consultant could develop this. • the proponent can prove by adequate Fisheries and Oceans Canada. engineering or hydro-geological investigation that the proposed activity will not cause pollution of the public drinking water supply or; • appropriate precautionary measures have been taken to sufficiently mitigate the risk of endangering the quality of the water supply for public drinking water supply purposes.
2. To Ensure the protection, retention and, where required, rehabilitation of riparian areas, the following conditions apply to development along waterways or water bodies (as per pending regulation under theWater Protection Act, and the Crown Lands Act): • That a setback as large possible be applied to provincially designated “vulnerable Highway into La Riviere - Photo by D. Bonner water bodies” and the following lakes or reservoirs: Boissevain Reservoir, Killarney Lake, Mary Jane Reservoir, Pelican Lake, Rock Lake, Swan Lake, and William Lake. Where a substantial setback is
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 35 Acronyms
AAFC - AESB – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - Agri-Environment Services Branch (formerly Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration – PFRA, a branch of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) AHCD – Assiniboine Hills Conservation District CD – Conservation District DFO – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (formerly known as the Department of Fisheries and Oceans) DUC – Ducks Unlimited Canada FASL – Feet above sea level IGA – Manitoba Intergovernmental Affairs IWMP – Integrated Watershed Management Plan MASL – Metres above sea level MIT – Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation MAFRI – Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives MHHC – Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation MWS – Manitoba Water Stewardship NCC – Nature Conservancy Canada PD – Planning District PFRA – Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (now referred to as Agri-Environment Services Branch) PMT – Project Management Team (Steering Committee) PVCD – Pembina Valley Conservation District RM – Rural Municipality TMCD – Turtle Mountain Conservation District WPA – Water Planning Authority
36 Glossary
Algal Bloom – A heavy growth of algae in a development of land in a planning district or debris, trash, fertilizers, oils, pesticides and body of water, often a result of high nutrient individual municipality. other waste and debris. concentrations and warm Drinking Water Source – Raw, untreated Nutrient Loading – Discharging of weather conditions. water in the environment that is used to nutrients (fertilizer or sewage) from the Aquatic Ecosystem – The components of supply a drinking water system as defined in watershed into receiving water body (lake, the earth related to, living in or located in The Drinking Water Safety Act. river, wetland); expressed usually as mass per or on water or the beds or shores of a water unit area per unit time. Ecological goods and services – Natural body, including but not limited to: services that healthy ecosystems provide to Planning District – A group of two or more a) all organic and inorganic matter, and society such as the purification of air and partnering municipalities that share similar water, water supply, raw materials (timber), geography and land use. A Planning District b) all living organisms and their habitat, and recreation, habitat, scenery, waste treatment, works to ensure the prudent development their interacting natural systems. climate stabilization, erosion control and and use of the districts resources for Beneficial Management Practice (BMP) sediment retention, regeneration of soil agricultural, commercial, industrial, – a practical solution used to deal with soil fertility, soil formation, carbon storage, residential, social and environmental needs. and water conservation concerns, including biological control and pollination, to Planning Districts utilize development plans techniques used to manage agricultural and name a few. and zoning by-laws to help shape the future urban runoff and modify agricultural of their region. GUDI (Groundwater under the direct waste management. influence of surface water) – A groundwater Point Source Pollution – Pollution from Canada Land Inventory – A federal- source that has a hydraulic connection to a single identifiable source, such as a provincial multi-disciplinary land inventory surface water body, or that has significant wastewater effluent pipe discharging project that produced maps that indicated changes in its water characteristics (chemical into a river. the capability of land to sustain agriculture, and biological) similar to surface Private Water Source – A surface or forestry, recreation and wildlife. water conditions. groundwater source that provides water to a Conservation Agreement – A legal Natural Areas – Land which remains single connection, usually a home or farm. agreement between a landowner and a undeveloped and supports a healthy Provincial Land Use Policies (PLUPs) – conservation organization that ensures the ecosystem that provides ecological goods and A set of polices describing the Provincial protection of the property’s conservation services, including wildlife habitat. interest in sustainable land use and values by limiting future use or development. Non-point Source Pollution – Pollution development. Local planning authorities Development Plan – A document that that cannot be traced to a single site or use them as a guide when preparing their outlines the general objectives and policies source. It is often characterized by garbage, development plan. that will guide the overall use, planning and
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 37 Glossary Continued
Public Water Source – A surface or affected by the action, and can aid or prevent irrigation water for agriculture and livestock, groundwater source that provides water to a its implementation. recreation and aesthetics, and drinking system with 15 or more service connections water supplies. Water Control Works – A dyke, dam, Riparian Area – The land adjacent to a surface or subsurface drain, drainage, Waterway – A landscape feature (natural or stream, river, lake or wetland. It contains improved natural waterway, canal, tunnel, artificial) that continuously or intermittently vegetation that, due to the presence of water, bridge, culvert borehole or contrivance for transports water on the earth’s surface, is distinctly different from the vegetation of carrying or conducting water, that: including headwater, rivers, creeks, channels, adjacent upland areas. streams, and drains. a) temporarily or permanently alters or may Semi-Public Water Source – A surface alter the flow or level of water, including Zoning By-Law – A detailed document or groundwater source that is not public but not limited to water in a waterway (text and maps) used by a planning authority or private, consists of less than 15 service or waterbody, by any means, including (municipality or planning district) to connections, or a single connection that drainage; or implement development plan policies. A supplies a public facility such as a school zoning bylaw works by regulating land use b) changes or may change the location or or hospital. and development. direction of flow of water, including but not Sensitive Developments – Any development limited to water in a waterway or waterbody, that will or, under specific circumstances by any means, including drainage. (spill, accident, etc), could reasonably Water Quality Index (WQI) – is a means be expected to impact a source water of summarizing large amounts of data into by contributing pathogenic organisms, simple terms for reporting to management deleterious chemicals, nutrients, or increase and the public in a consistent manner. It is the turbidity of the source water. calculated using twenty-five water quality Source Water – The raw, untreated water variables and combines the scope, frequency that is used to supply a public or semi-public and amplitude that variables exceed the water source. Source waters may be surface water quality objectives and guidelines. The water, such as a lake, reservoir or river, Water Quality Index ranges from 0-100 and or groundwater. is used to rank water quality into categories ranging from poor to excellent. Similar to Stakeholder – A person (or group) who is the UV index or an air quality index, it can responsible for making or implementing a tell us whether the overall quality of water management action. A stakeholder will be bodies poses a potential threat to various uses of water, such as habitat for aquatic life,
38 Appendix A.
Goal 1 - Improve and maintain drinking water quality throughout the watershed.
Objective 1 - Create a high level of public awareness on protecting and maintaining high quality groundwater from semi public and private wells.
Lead Recommended Action Recommended Targets Evaluation of Success Organizations(s) Provide increased education and awareness on well water Ensure that educational material Entire watershed. Drinking Water 1 quality. Provide education on well development, mainte- AHCD, PVCD, TMCD and an educational workshop is Action Areas. nance, and well head protection. developed by 2012. Entire watershed. Offer a higher rate of financial assistance in areas with Provide financial assistance for groundwater quality less then six meters of overburden. CD budgets and reporting reflect 2 testing, well head assessments, well sealing and shock Through public consultations it was AHCD, PVCD, TMCD targeted program delivery. chlorination. identified that specific attention needs to be paid to Ninette, Crystal City, and La Riviere.
Objective 2: Utilize public education, financial incentives, and water pollution enforcement to improve water quality at the 15 public drinking water sources.
All 15 public drinking water sources. Through public consultations it has AHCD, PVCD, TMCD, MWS Drinking water assessments distrib- Implement the recommended actions identified in the drinking been identified that specific attention - Planning and Coordi- uted to partner Rural Municipalities. 3 water source assessments. needs to be paid to Ninette, Strath- nation, MWS - Office of Projects are conducted to reduce cona Park, Pilot Mound, Killarney Lake, Drinking Water contamination susceptibility. Cartwright, Manitou, and Clearwater. Implement the actions identified in the Goudney Reservoir Ac- tion Plan (2007) and the Killarney Lake and Watershed Manage- Goudney Reservoir and Killarney Lake 4 See Plan See plan at www.pvcd.ca ment Plan (2003). These plans identify specific actions that subwatershed should be taken to improve drinking water quality. Funding proposals are written and Investigate the feasibility of purchasing a water circulation unit Goudney Reservoir, Mary Jane Reser- submitted to the Rural Municipali- 5 PVCD, TMCD as a pilot project to improve drinking water quality. voir, or Killarney Lake ties, Communities, and Provincial and Federal agencies.
Table continued on next page...
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 39 All three CDs sign partnership agree- ments with MHHC. Ensure that at least 250 acres are placed under Conser- Promote the protection of wetlands, riparian areas, and per- vation Agreement in the Killarney All Public Drinking Water MHHC, DUC AHCD, PVCD, 6 manent cover. Secure conservation agreements with private lake subwatershed, 50 acres in the Subtwatersheds TMCD landowners to conserve drinking water quality. Goudney subwatershed, 50 acres in the Boissevain subwatershed, and 100 acres in the Mary Jane subwatershed by 2020 year. A net gain of wetlands and riparian All Public Drinking Water TMCD, PVCD, RMs, areas based on comparing 2006 ortho- 7 Promote a net gain of wetlands and healthy riparian areas. Subwatersheds Planning Districts photo data with orthophoto data from 2016-2018. Ensure that all Planning District Development Plans continue RMs, Planning Districts, to protect and manage development activities around public All development plans that are Local Government, MWS drinking water sources. Ensure that all future Planning District reviewed in the next 10 years have 8 All 15 Public Drinking Water Sources - Planning and Coordina- Development Plans recognize the goals and objectives of this protective zones around drinking tion, MAFRI - Land Use integrated watershed management plan and the associated water withdrawal points. Knowledge Centre drinking water source assessments. Ensure that educational material and Provide increased education on nutrient management options AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, an annual educational workshop is de- for crop and livestock producers. Encourage managed livestock All Public Drinking Water MAFRI, AAFC-AESB, veloped and delivered by 2012. Part- 9 grazing, off-site site watering, riparian area management, soil Subwatersheds Ducks Unlimited, Canada, nerships should also be established testing, variable rate fertilizer application, manure management MHHC with programs such as “Managing the and fertilizer management. water’s edge” and local grazing clubs. Provide increased incentive-based, priority funding for nutrient Increase uptake of nutrient beneficial management projects for managed livestock grazing, off-site management practices by producers All Public Drinking Water AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, 10 watering, riparian area management (fencing), soil testing, vari- by 10% in these drinking water sub- Subwatersheds MAFRI able rate fertilizer application, manure management and chemi- watersheds by 2020. (Based on 2006 cal fertilizer management. census data) Provide increased education on the appropriate provincial authority to contact if residents witness the polluting, fouling or PVCD, TMCD, AHCD, Ensure that public drinking water contamination of a public drinking water source (surface water Manitoba Health and 11 All 15 Public Drinking Water Sources educational material is developed by or groundwater). Public Health Inspectors (located in Killarney Healthy Living - Public 2012. and Morden) under authority of the Public Health Act can follow Health Inspectors up on any complaints regarding drinking water contamination. Signs are posted at every boat launch, Erect signage to educate boaters that they are boating on a All Public Drinking Water Reservoirs 12 AHCD, PVCD, TMCD and public access point around the public drinking water source. and Lakes lakes by 2012.
40 Goal 2: Reduce algal blooms and improve surface water quality for residents, wildlife, and outdoor recreation.
Objective 1: Reduce nutrient loading by 10% at the Pembina River Windygates station (Total phosphorus loading from 1994-2007: 190.9 t/yr. Goal for 2020: 171.2 tonnes per year). Total nitrogen loading from 1994-2006: 1044.4 tonnes per year. Goal for 2020: 940.0 tonnes per year.)
Lead Recommended Action Recommended Target Area Evaluation of Success Organizations(s)
Action Section #1. Provide incentive based programs for agricultural beneficial management practices to reduce nutrient loading.
Conservation Districts will work with Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI) and AAFC - Agri-Environmental Increase uptake of beneficial manage- Services Branch (AAFC- AESB) to provide technology transfer/ AHCD, PVCD, TMCD, ment practices by livestock producers 1 extension and potential financial support to assist producers in Valley and River Zone MAFRI, AAFC – AESB by 10% in the Valley and River Zone by implementing beneficial management practices such as off-site 2020. (Based on 2006 census data) site watering, riparian fencing, manure management, and winter site management. Provide funding for producers to implement projects identified An increased proportion of producers 2 in their Environmental Farm Plan. Provide education on benefi- Entire watershed MAFRI are utilizing beneficial management cial management practices to reduce nutrient run-off. practices by 2020. Secure 10 Wetland Restoration Agree- Secure conservation agreements with private landowners for MHHC, DUC, MWS - Wet- ments in this watershed (or 50 acres of wetland and riparian conservation. If available, promote the Wet- 3 Entire watershed land Restoration Incen- restored wetlands). Secure 10 Conser- land Restoration Incentive Program, which would provide water tive Program vation Agreements (minimum 40 acres retention across the watershed. each) by 2020. Investigate the feasibility of an environmental goods and ser- MAFRI, MWS, AHCD, An effective environmental goods and 4 vices program in this watershed. Landowners are then provided Entire watershed PVCD, TMCD, DUC, KAP, services program is offered by 2015. incentives to retain wetlands. MHHC, RMs
Action Section #2. Provide education and awareness on improving surface water quality.
Ensure that educational outreach, Provide education and awareness on the proper management AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MB including newsletters to watershed 5 of private septic systems and the hazards resulting from the Septic Monitoring Zone Conservation – Environ- residents, are developed and delivered releases of nitrates, e-coli, and nutrients. mental Services by 2012. Provide increased education on nutrient management options Ensure that educational outreach, for crop and livestock producers. Encourage managed livestock AHCD, PVCD, TMCD, including newsletters to watershed 6 grazing, off-site watering, riparian fencing, manure manage- Entire watershed AAFC-AESB, MAFRI residents, are developed and delivered ment, winter livestock management, and chemical fertilizer by 2012. management. Conservation District annual report Organize educational events and develop outdoor classrooms to School aged children and the general 7 AHCD, PVCD, TMCD outlines activities for public education promote watershed health. public in the entire watershed of school children. Ensure that educational material and Provide education on methods to reduce water pollution from 8 Entire watershed AHCD, PVCD, TMCD an educational workshop is developed urban water run-off. and delivered by 2012. Promote the River Watch and Envirothon Programs in high A Riverwatch Program is established All the high schools within the water- 9 schools. These program encourage high school students to get PVCD, AHCD, TMCD in every high school Pembina River shed involved in monitoring and conserving local waterways. Watershed by 2015. Table continued on next page...
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 41 Action Section #3. Wastewater treatment facilities and land management projects.
Ensure that nutrient discharge reduction options are required To be determined by MB Conserva- All the wastewater treatment facilities MB Conservation - Envi- 10 when new wastewater treatment facilities are licensed, or when tion - Environmental Services on an within the watershed ronmental Services existing waste water treatment facilities are relicensed. individual basis. Investigate opportunities to reduce nutrient discharges from existing wastewater treatment facilities. Explore designing larger All wastewater treatment facilities and more efficient lagoon cells, engineered wetlands, and incor- All the wastewater treatment facilities RMs, MB Conservation - in the watershed incorporate nutri- 11 porating wastewater treatment options that can reduce nutrient within the watershed Environmental Services ent discharge reduction technology discharges. Allocate infrastructure funding to assist wastewater within their facilities by 2020. treatment facilities to reduce phosphorus discharges to < 1 mg/l. Enhanced inspection program of wastewater systems on resi- MB Conservation - Envi- Inspection program is initiated by 12 dential properties in sensitive areas to ensure water quality is Septic Monitoring Zone ronmental Services 2012. being protected. Promote the “Water Soft Paths” approach to reducing municipal costs for drinking water treatment and wastewater treatment. “Water Soft Paths” is a holistic water use planning approach that Education material is developed by All the communities within the wa- 13 focuses on the demand-side management and strives to reduce PVCD, AHCD, TMCD, RMs 2012. Education workshops are of- tershed water demand through innovation, conservation, reallocation fered to interested rural municipalities. and changing use and re-use while working within ecological limits. 3 of the 4 projects identified by the Allocate funding and effort to address surface water quality Kelly's Ravine (North-west of Rock 14 AHCD 2001 Upper Pembina River Fisheries threats. Lake) Study are completed in 5 years. Ensure that when future crown land Ensure that Crown Lands continue to be managed in an environ- MB Conservation, AAFC- management plans are developed 15 mentally sustainable manner to minimize potential impacts on All Crown Lands in the watershed AESB, MAFRI - Land Use that they recognize the goals and ob- water quality. Knowledge Centre jectives of this integrated watershed management plan. Add a provincial long term water quality monitoring station At the outlet of 05OA (between 05OA MWS - Surface Water within the Pembina River watershed to better determine the and 05OB). Or at some point deemed A new long term water quality moni- 16 Quality Management source of water quality threats and to better understand the appropriate by MWS Water Quality toring station is established by 2013. Section long term water quality trends. Branch.
42 Goal 3: Protect our lakes and rivers from excess erosion.
Objective 1: A 10% increase in the uptake of beneficial management practices for erosion control by producers in highly and severely erodible soils by 2020 (based on 2006 census data).
Lead Recommended Action Recommended Target Area Evaluation of Success Organizations(s)
Action Section #1. Provide incentive based programs for agricultural beneficial management practices to reduce nutrient loading.
AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, Provide education to agricultural producers on the Educational material is developed by 2012. Reduce MAFRI - Go Teams, implementation beneficial management practices the amount of annual cropland in soil that has a high AAFC-AESB (Agri-Envi- for water erosion control. Promote appropriate to severe water erosion risk (within 50 meters of ronmental Knowledge 1 tillage practices, managed grazing systems, grassed Entire watershed watercourses) from 4.1% to 3% in 10 years (based on and Decision Support) waterways , sowing of permanent cover (trees, 2006 census data). Water erosion control beneficial (Sustainable Agricultural forage) and other appropriate beneficial manage- management practices are utilized on 50% of the lands Systems and Practices) ment practices. considered a water erosion risk area. (Shelterbelt Program) Provide increased financial support to agricul- Reduce the amount of annual cropland in soil that has tural producers on the implementation beneficial a high to severe water erosion risk (within 50 meters management practices for water erosion control. Water Erosion Risk Area. CD boards AHCD, PVCD, TMCD, MA- of watercourses) from 4.1% to 3% in 10 years (based 2 Promote appropriate tillage practices, managed have discretion to identify risk FRI (Agri-Environmental on 2006 census data). Water erosion control benefi- grazing systems, grassed waterways, sowing of areas outside of mapped area. Service Centre) cial management practices are utilized on 50% of the permanent cover (trees, forage) and other appropri- water erosion risk area. ate beneficial management practices. Provide public education on the cause of erosion Ensure that educational material is developed and AHCD, PVCD, TMCD, 3 in the watershed, and solutions for managing local Entire watershed signage is erected at public access points around the MAFRI Go Teams problems. watershed. Secure conservation agreements (or other land protection agreements) with private landowners to MHHC, PVCD, TMCD, Ensure that at least 1000 acres of permanent cover are 4 Entire watershed ensure that existing permanent cover is protected AHCD placed under conservation agreement by 2020. across the watershed. Conduct a surface water management study to AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MWS Terms of Reference for a surface water management 5 identify the most effective water retention zones in Each subwatershed - Water Control Systems study signed by 2012. each sub-watershed. Management, Consultant Address soil erosion at specific sites along vul- Soil Erosion Focus Area - 17 specific AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, RMs, nerable watercourses utilizing a variety of tools Conservation Districts have applied funding and staff 6 sites. CD boards have discretion to MWS - Water Control including planting permanent cover (trees, forage), time to address these specific sites. identify additional sites. Systems Management fencing, small control structures, and rip rap. Utilize shale traps, or similar structures, to reduce PVCD, MWS - Water PVCD has applied money and staff time to address 7 the amount of sediment entering the Pembina Shale Trap Erosion Zone Control Systems Manage- these specific sites. River waterway. ment Complete projects at 10 sites as identified in the Upper Pembina River Fisheries and Riparian Study (1996). Complete projects at 5 sites as identified in Fisheries Habitat Rehabilitation 8 AHCD, PVCD, TMCD All project sites are completed as identified by 2020. the Fisheries Enhancement Study for the Pembina Sites. 85 specific sites. River (2001). Complete projects at 10 sites as identi- fied in the Long River Fisheries Study (2009).
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 43 Goal 4: Improve surface water management to reduce flooding and wetland loss, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Objective 1: Reduce the economic impact on landowners from spring and summer flooding.
Objective 2: Improve the incentive to maintain wetlands by providing financial incentives and education on the value of wetlands for drinking water, drought resistance, and flood protection.
Recommended Actions and Suggested Policies to Adopt Lead Organizations(s) Evaluation of Success
General Watershed Zone - Agriculture production zone with opportunities to conserve and restore wetlands and permanent cover. Management Policy AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MWS - Water Review Provincial water works drain- 1 Promote no net loss of wetlands. Control Works and Drainage Licens- age license approvals annually, and ing ensure that objectives are being met. Promote the retention of natural and permanent cover to allow water infiltration Programs are offered in annual Conser- 2 AHCD, TMCD, PVCD and reduced water run-off. vation District budgets. Programs are offered in annual Con- AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MHHC, MWS Provide incentives for the retention and restoration of wetlands and riparian servation District budgets. Ensure that 3 - Wetland Restoration Incentive areas. Conservation Agreement targets are Program met for Goals 1, 2, and 3. Ensure that there is uniformity in Water Control Works and Drainage Licensing, policies and enforcement across the watershed. Ensure that Conservation Dis- Review Water Control Works and Drain- tricts and Rural Municipalities receive copies, and are permitted to comment, on age licence approvals annually, and MWS - Water Control Works and 4 all Water Control Works and Drainage License applications proposed within their ensure that objectives are being met. Drainage Licensing boundaries. Ensure that a Water Control Works and Drainage Licensing Officer Aim for increased compliance and/or a meets with every conservation district board on an annual basis to discuss the reduction in offence notices issued. drainage licensing process and provide updates on any local concerns. Develop and maintain open communication with the landowners and authori- PVCD to continue to work with the 5 PVCD ties in the American portion of the watershed. Pembina River Basin Advisory Board. Conduct a surface water management study to identify the most effective water AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MWS - Water retention zones in each sub-watershed. Construct water retention structures at Terms of Reference for a surface water 6 Control Systems Management, identified sites. Focus areas include: Badger/Mylor waterway, PTH #253 east of management study signed by 2011. Consultant Rock Lake, and the Gimby Creek provincial waterway flooded site. Manitoba Infrastructure and Trans- The 18 "Surface Water Problem Sites" within this zone will be addressed and portation, RMs, PVCD, TMCD, AHCD, Annual work plans and budgets ad- 7 prioritized based on the policies within this zone. MWS - Water Control Systems dress the identified problem sites. Management
44 Valley and River Zone - Management Manage this zone to minimize flooding and erosion. Encourage sustainable livestock production, conservation of wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation. Policy MWS - Water Control Systems Man- Manage flows through the use of water control structures (Pelican Lake Water agement, Manitoba Infrastructure Improved communication between all 1 Control Structure Swan Lake Water Control Structure, culverts, sheet pile weirs, and Transportation, Rural Munici- responsible authorities. man-made riffles). palities. MWS - Flood Forecasting and Flood Greater communication between all Response Coordination Branch, groups. Advertise the availability of Provide better direction to landowners on how to get the latest flood forecast 2 PVCD, AHCD, TMCD, RMs of River- information in the form of brochures, information for the Pembina River from Pelican Lake to Swan Lake. side, Strathcona, Turtle Mountain, websites, mail-outs, fridge magnets, Roblin and Argyle. etc. AHCD, PVCD, TMCD, Manitoba Conservation District Board reviews Consider purchasing flood prone lands to allow for the restoration of natural 3 Emergency Measures Organization, opportunities to purchase property on Pembina river floodplain. Prioritize land downstream of Pelican Lake. NGOs a case by case basis.. Repair or replace the control structure/fish ladder at La Riviere to control flows PVCD, RM of Pembina, MWS - Water A functional solution is developed by 4 for fish passage and provide for watershed health. Control Systems Management 2013. A Rocha, PVCD, TMCD, AHCD, Mani- Maintain natural biodiversity, including aquatic ecosystems, by encouraging Educational material is developed and 5 toba Fisheries Branch, Department conservation of riparian areas. Monitor the status of indicator wildlife species. delivered by 2012. of Fisheries and Oceans AHCD, PVCD, MWS - Water Control Conduct feasibility studies on the construction or restoration of water control Terms of Reference for a feasibility 6 Systems Management, Manitoba structures at the outlet of Rock Lake and Swan Lake. study is signed by 2015. Infrastructure and Transportation Manitoba Infrastructure and Trans- The 38 "Surface Water Problem Sites" within this zone will be addressed and portation, Rural Municipalities, Annual work plans and budgets ad- 7 prioritized based on the policies within this zone. PVCD, TMCD, AHCD, MWS - Water dress the identified problem sites. Control Systems Management Turtle Mountain Zone - Management Minimize downstream flooding and fast water run-off into severe and high risk water erosion areas. Policy AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MWS - Water Review Provincial water works drain- 1 Promote no net loss of wetlands. Control Works and Drainage Licens- age license approvals annually, and ing ensure that objectives are being met. Programs are offered in annual Con- AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MHHC, DUC, Provide incentives for the retention and restoration of wetlands and riparian servation District budgets. Ensure that 2 MWS - Wetland Restoration Incen- areas. Conservation Agreement targets are tive Program met for Goals 1, 2, and 3. Promote the retention of natural and permanent cover to allow water infiltration Programs are offered in annual Conser- 3 AHCD, TMCD, PVCD and reduced water run-off. vation District budgets. Conduct a surface water management study to identify the most effective water AHCD, TMCD, PVCD, MWS - Water Terms of Reference for a surface water 4 retention zones in each sub-watershed. Construct water retention structures at Control Systems Management, management study signed by 2011. identified sites. Focus area includes Orthez Creek. Consultant New beneficial management practice Encourage agricultural beneficial management practice demonstration sites on Manitoba Conservation, AAFC- 5 demonstration sites are developed Crown Lands. AESB, MAFRI whenever possible.
Table continued on next page...
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 45 Consider adopting the following policies for all Crown Lands in the Turtle Mountain Zone:
Ensure that Crown Lands continue to be managed with a high level of consider- Manitoba Conservation, AAFC- All new Crown Land Management ation for watershed health. AESB, MAFRI Plans in this watershed, cite this plan. Ensure that all new Crown Land Management Plans recognize the goals and Manitoba Conservation, AAFC- All new Crown Land Management objectives of this Integrated Watershed Management Plan. AESB, MAFRI Plans in this watershed, cite this plan. Ensure that Consultations are held with the Watershed Planning Authority and 6 Manitoba Conservation, AAFC- All new Crown Land Management neighbouring Conservation Districts before Crown Land Management Plans are AESB, MAFRI Plans in this watershed, cite this plan. implemented. Ensure that a 30 metre riparian buffer zone is maintained around waterbodies Manitoba Conservation, AAFC- Reviews of AAFC- AESB Annual Reports when brush clearing is required. AESB, MAFRI and site visits by CD board members. Ensure that ecological integrity is maintained when any future developments Manitoba Conservation, AAFC- New development plans are reviewed (roads, subdivisions, access points) are considered around isolated waterbodies AESB, MAFRI, RMs, Planning by the Water Planning Authority and on Crown Lands. Districts Conservation District. Manitoba Infrastructure and Trans- The 15 "Surface Water Problem Sites" within this zone will be addressed and portation, Rural Municipalities, Annual work plans and budgets ad- 7 prioritized based on the policies within this zone. PVCD, TMCD, AHCD, MWS - Water dress the identified problem sites. Control Systems Management
46 Appendix B.
Source Water Protection representatives and their recommendations 9 of which withdraw their water from are placed within an integrated watershed a groundwater source, six from surface Clean, potable drinking water is critical management plan. This locally-led approach water sources, and one from both. Some for human life, therefore, a necessity for to protecting drinking water sources is of these public drinking water systems use prosperous sustainable communities. inline with the shared governance model multiple wells to withdraw water for a single Protecting water at its source, or before adopted for soil and water management community. it arrives at our treatment facilities, is a across municipal Manitoba through the Source Water Assessments preventative approach to water management. Conservation Districts program. The process It is more ecologically responsible and is quick, easy to follow and relies primarily The source water assessments are completed may be less expensive and to prevent on the common sense of a small group in two steps: contamination to our source waters, than to of people. In this watershed, 9 sources 1. Mapping Source Water try and remediate water quality in treatment of drinking water are from groundwater, Protection Zones. A desk-top exercise that facilities. and six are from the surface water. As includes creating maps that display potential Source water protection provides benefits a result, this team was comprised of a source water threats, land cover and local to watersheds beyond those realized at the hydrogeologist, a regional drinking water infrastructure. This is done within a 1.5 water treatment plant. Clean water benefits officer, a watershed planner, Conservation kilometre buffer around each public water aquatic ecosystems, supports recreational and District representatives, and a municipal system well, or sub watershed of a surface wildlife values, and ensures sustainability for representative that changed based on which water source. Information to create these future generations. Source water protection municipal system was being reviewed. This maps is drawn from provincial databases fits well within the integrated watershed team has made recommendations based on that may not be updated with current management framework as it pulls from a one site visit, a relatively simple review of information. To ‘groundtruth’ what is wide knowledge base spanning hydrogeology, land activities in the area, and a follow-up identified within the source water protection land use planning, water quality, municipal discussion of potential threats to drinking zones, site visits are held. infrastructure and industry as well as relying water quality based on what they observed 2. Site Visits. Site visits are heavily on local knowledge for describing during site visits and information available in conducted by a group of local and technical area conditions and implementing actions. the provincial groundwater database. experts. Information on the maps and The approach to source water protection Public Drinking Water Sources accompanying data are considrered, but a careful reiew of individual well conditions planning varies widely across Canada. In Manitoba, the Office of Drinking Water and land use activities at the site are the focus Manitoba has adopted a ‘grassroots’ defines a public water system as a potable of this visit. Potential threats are discussed approach to source water protection. A supply of drinking water with 15 or more and precautionary measures that could be source water assessment is conducted with a connections. The Pembina River watershed applied to protect wells are considered. group of local, technical and non-technical contains 15 public drinking water systems,
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 47 Potential pollutant sources examined in this Recommendations for all public drinking • lead to the contribution of assessment include: water sources nutrients, pathogenic organisms, dleterious chemicals or materials to • Roadways 1. Intensive and high-pollution risk these waters; • Wastewater treatment plants development activities, (land uses and structures that have a high risk of causing • accelerate erosion and bank • Manure storage areas pollution and include, but are not limited to instability; • Railways chemical/fertilizer storage facilities, disposal • cause the removal of natural • Oil Wells fields, fuel tanks, waste disposal grounds, vegetative cover; and/or • Contaminated sites wastewater treatment facilities) will be restricted in public drinking water source • may have an impact on the in- • Chemical, fuel, petro-chemical zones. Where restriction is no possible, storage locations stream flows needed to maintain development may be considered in public healthy aquatic ecosystems. • Industry drinking water source zones provided: • Mining operations Seal unused, abandoned and poorly • the proponent can prove by constructed wells that are located within • Waste disposal sites adequate engineering or hydro- a source protection zones for all public • Agricultural drains geological investigation that the drinking water. proposed activity will not cause • Population centres pollution of the public drinking Boil Water Advisories water supply or;
There is a history of boil water advisories • appropriate precautionary measures in the Pembina river watershed. Rock Lake have been taken to sufficiently Beach campground is currently under a mitigate the risk of endangering long-term boil water advisory. Strathcona the quality of the water supply Park and Pilot Mound have both been under for public drinking water supply temporary boil water advisories within the purposes. last 5 years. The community of Ninette, 2. To prevent significant surface water which is serviced by private or semi-private quality and drinking water quality wells, is also under a long-term boil water deterioration, developments in or near advisory. surface waters and riparian areas will be restricted, or limited, if they:
48 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 49 50 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 51 52 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 53 54 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 55 56 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 57 58 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 59 60 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 61 62 Appendix C.
Pembina River Watershed Conservation Agreement Flow Chart MHHC and PVCD, TMCD and AHCD agree to cooperate and promote the Conservation Agreement Program and contact key landowners within the watershed
A landowner expresses interest in signing a Conservation Agreement
MHHC representative and CD Manager reviews the eligibility of property based on MHHC and Pembina River IWMP criteria
MHHC and Pembina River IWMP Criteria: No Is the property comprised of: Inform landowner of - wetlands program criteria - riparian areas - grasslands or woodlands and is ≥ 40 acres, or has a special feature or location
Yes Is the property within Moving forward with Conservation a drinking water Yes Move forward with source watershed or Conservation Agreement within 1.5 kilometers Agreement of a public water Grasslands or source Riparian Area Wetland Wetland Restoration Woodlands No Protecting valuable Land adjacent to a lake, Class 1 wetland or Restoring drained Is the property within or 3rd order stream or wildlife or Species-at- Yes Move forward with higher wetlands the Valleyand River Conservation greater Risk habitat Zone? Agreement Conservation Agreement delivered by MHHC No Funding may be Is the property within Move forward with Funding may be Funding may be Funding may be Yes provided by provided by MHHC, MB the Turtle Mountain Conservation provided by MHHC, MB provided by MHHC, MHHC, MB Water Water Stewardship, and Zone (headwaters)? Agreement Water Stewardship, Pot Environment Canada Environment Canada, Stewardship, Holes Plus, and/or and/or Conservation and/or and/or Conservation No Conservation District* District* Conservation District* District* Inform landowner of other opportunities for * Not all Conservation Agreements automatically receive funding from identified partners. conservation
In unique situations where a potential Conservation Agreement property falls outside the criteria of MHHC and the Pembina River IWMP, CD Boards have discretion to direct staff to pursue a CD administered Conservation Agreement.
Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 63 Photo Credits
Algae Advisory Sign http://www.gov.mb.ca/waterstewardship/quality/beaches.html
64 Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan 65 Soils and Landscape of the Pembina River Watershed Geology and Soils
he Pembina River watershed is characterized by its fertile soils, which have sustained a thriving agricultural community for overT 100 years. Canada Land Inventory (CLI) is a comprehensive multi-disciplinary land inventory that identifies land capability for agriculture, forestry, wildlife, and recreation. The land capability for dryland agriculture is based on an evaluation of both internal and external soil characteristics that influence soil suitability and limitations for agricultural use. Class 1 lands have the highest, and Class 7 lands the lowest capability to support agricultural land use activities. Within the Pembina River watershed, 78% of the soils are classified as Class 1, 2 and 3. Approximately 20% of the soils are considered Class 4, 5 and 6. These classes have moderate to severe limitations for crop production and are often better suited to other land uses.
Soil characteristics provide important information in understanding the Pembina River watershed. The sloping topography of this area was shaped thousands of years ago during the retreat of the Laurentide ice sheet. There were two main modes of soil deposition in this watershed: glacial till in the western portion, and lacustrine in the eastern and central portions. Glacial till is specifically noted in areas around Rock Lake and between Swan Lake and the Pembina Escarpment. Shale till can present challenges to landowners in these areas as it can lead to extensive erosion problems.Pembina River Integrated Watershed Management Plan
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