Natural Environment Report Environmental Project Report – August 8, 2017 in Association With

Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Transit Project Assessment Process APPENDIX A Natural Environment Report Environmental Project Report – August 8, 2017 In Association With

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Metrolinx - Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Natural Environment Report – August 8, 2017

Executive Summary • Peak period, peak direction 30-minute or better service between Allandale Waterfront GO Station and Union Station; Metrolinx, an agency of the Province of Ontario, has proposed the expansion of the Barrie rail corridor and is evaluating the environmental effects of this transit project in accordance with the Transit Project Assessment • Off-peak, two-way 60-minute service or better between Allandale Waterfront GO Station and Union Station; Process (TPAP). The TPAP is regulated by the Environmental Assessment Act (EAA) under Ontario Regulation and 231/08 – Transit Projects and Metrolinx Undertakings (O. Reg. 231/08). The existing Barrie rail corridor is primarily • Electrification of the entire Barrie rail corridor4. a single track, approximately 63 miles in length, running from Union Station in the City of Toronto to Allandale Waterfront GO Station (Mile 63.00 Newmarket Subdivision) in the City of Barrie, as shown in Figure 1-1 (located The following service level scenarios were assessed as a part of this TPAP: within the main text). • Current: 14 diesel trains from Union Station to Allandale Waterfront GO Station in 2016;

The TPAP for the Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project (BRCE Project) includes the following infrastructure • Future, Scenario 1: up to 36 diesel trains per day from Union Station to Aurora GO Station by 2021, which components: includes 20 diesel trains between Aurora and Allandale Waterfront GO Station; and

• A second track between Lansdowne Avenue in the City of Toronto (Mile 3.00) to Allandale Waterfront GO • Future, Scenario 2: up to 180 electric trains from Union Station to Aurora GO Station in 2025 and beyond, 12 Station in the City of Barrie (Mile 63.00) ; which includes 46 electric trains between Aurora and Allandale Waterfront GO Station 5.

• Upgrades at existing GO Stations along the corridor: Rutherford, Maple, King City, Aurora, Newmarket, East In June 2016, Metrolinx announced five new GO Stations for the Barrie rail corridor. These stations were endorsed Gwillimbury, Bradford, Barrie South and Allandale Waterfront; by each municipality and received Municipal Council resolution approvals in November 2016. The new GO • Upgrades to existing structures within the Barrie rail corridor including bridges and culverts; and Stations include:

• A new layover facility within the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury for overnight storage of trains. • Spadina (at Front Street) in the City of Toronto;

The BRCE Project will be implemented in different phases. The first phase of the BRCE Project includes the • Bloor-Davenport (Bloor Street near Lansdowne Avenue) in the City of Toronto; corridor infrastructure components to support the GO Expansion program over the next 10 years. As such, Phase • Kirby (near Keele Street) in the City of Vaughan; One includes: • Mulock (near Bayview Avenue) in the Town of Newmarket; and • Detailed design and construction of a second track from Tecumseth Street in the City of Toronto (Mile 1.35) to Aurora GO Station (Mile 29.90)3; • Innisfil (at 6th Line) in the Town of Innisfil.

• Upgrades to the Rutherford, Maple, King City, and Aurora GO Stations; and The location for each proposed new GO Station is identified in the Preferred Design Rail Corridor Plans (Drawings SK-C-001 - SK-C-144) appended to the BRCE Environmental Project Report (EPR). Public consultation for all • Detailed design and construction of a new layover facility within the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury for new GO Stations in collaboration with the municipalities will be part of the next phase of the GO Regional Express overnight train storage. Rail (RER) program. New GO Stations have not been assessed as part of this TPAP and will be subject to an As additional funding becomes available from the Province, the next phase(s) of the Project will include the Addendum. second track between Aurora GO Station and Allandale Waterfront GO Station and associated station upgrades. R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited (Burnside) was retained to complete this Natural Environment Report (NER) As part of Phase One of the BRCE Project, GO Expansion along the corridor over the next 10 years will include: in support of the TPAP, which forms part of the BRCE EPR.

• All-day, two-way 15-minute service between Aurora GO Station and Union Station;

1The portion of the corridor from north of Bloor Street (Mile 3.91) to south of Davenport Road (Mile 4.87) falls within the area 3 The portion of the corridor from Tecumseth Street (Mile 1.35) to Lansdowne Avenue (Mile 3.00) was assessed under a of the Davenport Diamond Grade Separation project which was assessed under a separate TPAP and includes a double separate TPAP (Georgetown South Service Expansion and Union-Pearson Rail Link Environmental Project Report, July track only. 2009), however the additional track work within this section has been included as part of the detailed design of Phase One 2 The double track expansion for the section of the Barrie rail corridor between south of Steeles Avenue (Mile 12.86) in the of the BRCE Project. City of Toronto and south of the Rutherford GO Station (Mile 16.50) in the City of Vaughan was assessed under a separate 4 The electrification of the Barrie rail corridor is being assessed under a separate TPAP. As such, the GO Rail Electrification Environmental Assessment (EA) (Barrie Corridor Double Track Expansion Project Summary Report, August 2014) and is TPAP will address any electrification considerations for the corridor beyond the works proposed as part of the BRCE TPAP. not included as part of this TPAP. 5 Assessed as part of a separate system-wide Electrification TPAP.

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Metrolinx - Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Natural Environment Report – August 8, 2017

Under the TPAP process, proponents must identify potential effects, mitigation measures, and monitoring Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury could not be directly accessed and were observed from the nearest publicly associated with natural features6 of provincial importance (identified as Significant Features78 for the purposes of accessible vantage point. this Report). This includes features listed in the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) (Ministry of Municipal Affairs Surveys to delineate vegetation communities, characterize aquatic resources, and document the presence of and Housing (MMAH), 2014), the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) (MMAH, 2002), Lake Simcoe amphibians and breeding birds were completed from April through to October, 2015. Additional surveys to assess Protection Plan (LSPP) (Ministry of the Environment (MOE9), 2009), Greenbelt Plan (MMAH, 2005), the potential turtle wintering habitats were conducted in the spring of 2016 along the Phase One portion of the corridor Endangered Species Act (ESA, 2007) and Federal Fisheries Act. from the City of Toronto (Mile 3.00) to the Town of Aurora GO Station (Mile 29.90). In addition, all incidental The BRCE Project also falls within the jurisdiction of 11 single-tier, upper-tier, and lower-tier municipalities and wildlife and Species at Risk (SAR) sightings within the study area were documented during all site investigations. two conservation authorities, all of which have local and/or watershed based policies for the protection of the All findings were compiled and analyzed in order to identify Significant Natural Features. In some cases, natural environment. As an agency of the Province of Ontario, Metrolinx is not subject to conservation authority significance was confirmed, while in other cases it was only possible to determine if a natural feature was or municipal permits and approvals requirements. However, Metrolinx policy is to adhere to the intent of the potentially significant. In these cases, the feature was identified as a “Candidate Significant Feature”. relevant permit/approval requirements to the greatest extent possible. In this regard, Metrolinx has engaged with the municipalities and conservation authorities during the BRCE TPAP and will continue to communicate prior to In total, the following Provincially Significant or Candidate Significant natural features were identified within the construction and throughout the future construction phases of the Project to confirm that any concerns are study area: addressed to the greatest extent possible. Significant Natural Areas: The overall scope of work for the study was to: • Provincially Significant Wetlands (PSWs); • Identify natural features of Provincial Significance, or Potential (“Candidate”) Provincial Significance, through • Non-significant and Unevaluated Wetlands (which will be treated as if they were Significant for the purposes review of available background information, and completion of site investigations and data analysis; of this Project); • Assess potential effects to natural features of Provincial Significance based on the preferred design for the • Significant Woodlands; BRCE Project; and • Significant and Candidate Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI); and • Identify mitigation measures, net effects and monitoring activities based on industry Best Management Practices (BMPs), professional judgment, various guidance documents and all applicable policy and • Significant Valleylands. regulatory requirements. Wildlife Habitats: The applicable permits and approvals associated with natural features are described within Section 6, Permit and • Significant and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat (all of which have been treated as Significant for the Approval Requirement in the BRCE EPR. purposes of this Project and will be further assessed prior to Project construction to confirm their significance); Site investigations were completed from within the existing Barrie rail corridor and/or publicly accessible rights- • Significant and Candidate Significant Habitat of Species of Conservation Concern (SCC) (all of which will be of-way (ROWs) from Mile 3.00 in the south to Mile 63.00 in the north, finishing at the Allandale Waterfront GO treated as Significant for the purposes of this Project); and Station. Privately owned lands adjacent to the rail corridor and required for the new train layover facility within the

6 For the purposes of this Report, natural features are defined as the natural and human-influenced vegetation that provides 8 For the purposes of this Report, the following terms are used to describe Significant Natural Features: ecological function and value. This includes wetlands, woodlands, open country grass and shrub lands, vegetated valleys • Significant Natural Features: All features of provincial importance. For example, a Significant Woodland is defined as and aquatic systems. Natural features are synonymous with “natural heritage features”. woodland that is of provincial importance. 7 Significant Features are natural features that have been identified in the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) and various • Candidate Significant Natural Features, defined as features which may be significant but for which significance has not Provincial Plans as having provincial importance. In this Report, these have been categorized as follows: been confirmed through various habitat use studies or other evaluation processes. • Significant Natural Areas (Provincially Significant Wetlands, Significant Woodlands, Significant Valleylands, Areas of 9 Since this document was written, the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) has changed its name to Ministry of the Natural and Scientific Interest, Natural Areas Adjacent to Lake Simcoe); Environment and Climate Change (MOECC). The Ministry of the Environment was created in 1972 and merged with the • Wildlife Habitat (Significant Wildlife Habitat, Habitat of Species of Conservation Concern, Habitat of Endangered and Ministry of Energy to form the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MOEE) from 1993 to 1997 and again in 2002. The Threatened Species); Ministry of the Environment changed its name to Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) on June 24, 2014. • Fish Habitat; and For the purposes of this Report the MOE and MOECC are considered to be synonymous. • Ecological Linkages.

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• Candidate Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species (which will be further surveyed and assessed prior For Municipal/Private Trees: Metrolinx will work with each municipality to develop a municipality-wide to Project construction). streamlined tree permitting/compensation approach for municipal and private trees. The goal is to reduce administrative permitting burden for trees affected within long stretches of rail corridor. This study documented the potential effects on the natural environment which will result from the implementation of the preferred design for the BRCE Project (includes Phase One and all future phases) during the pre- For Trees within Metrolinx Property: Metrolinx is developing a methodology to compensate for trees located construction land clearing, construction and operations/maintenance phases for the three Project components – within Metrolinx’s property. This will involve categorizing trees by community type/ecological value and rail infrastructure (addition of second track), GO Station improvements, and the Bradford Layover Facility. establishing the appropriate level of compensation. Metrolinx will be looking to partner with conservation authorities and municipalities to develop the final compensation plan. Construction of the rail infrastructure will result in a larger footprint to accommodate the rail expansion within, and adjacent to, the existing Barrie rail corridor. Where the existing ROW is not wide enough to accommodate the Conservation Authorities: For vegetation removals required within conservation authority lands, applicable proposed expansion, additional lands will need to be acquired and lands cleared. These additional lands, removal and restoration requirements will be followed. combined with the lands within the surrounding 120 metres were studied and assessed for potential effects. Federal lands: For vegetation removals required within Federally-owned lands, applicable removal and As a result of the preferred design for the BRCE Project (including the rail infrastructure, GO Station improvements restoration requirements will be followed. and Bradford Layover Facility), 44.51 ha of natural features are anticipated to be removed (i.e., direct loss). This Tree End Use: Metrolinx will develop options for the end use of trees removed from Metrolinx property (e.g., includes the following (some of which overlap as they fall within more than one category): reuse/recycling options). • Significant Natural Areas: Any compensation will occur within the same watershed where removal occurred to the extent possible and will  3.19 ha of PSWs; require an overall net gain to be achieved. Other key mitigation measures will include:

 6.79 ha of Non-Provincially Significant and Unevaluated Wetlands; • Preparation of an Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) Plan prior to Project construction in consultation with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and the Lake Simcoe and Region Conservation  6.56 ha of Significant Woodlands; Authority (LSRCA) which will conform to industry BMPs and recognized standard specifications. The ESC  4.94 ha of Provincial and Candidate ANSIs; and Plan will also take into account the Greater Golden Horseshoe Area Conservation Authorities (GGHACA) Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines for Urban Construction (2006);  11.55 ha of Significant Valleylands. • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency plans for the construction phase of the BRCE • Wildlife Habitats: Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis  Portions of Candidate and Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitat, Candidate Habitats of SCC and to strengthen their effectiveness. Spills or depositions into watercourses will be immediately contained and Candidate Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species which overlap with the Significant Natural cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. Spills will be Areas noted above; and reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060;

 20.90 ha of Candidate and Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitat and Candidate Habitat of Endangered • Dust from the work areas will be controlled through suppressants (e.g., water); and Threatened Species which do not overlap with the Significant Natural Areas noted above. • All requirements under the Invasive Species Act will be met, including the following: In addition to the direct loss of portions of Significant Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitats, the BRCE Project may  All disturbed areas of the construction site will be re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow; result in other potential effects. For example, nuisance effects such as increased dust created as a result of construction have the potential to settle on adjacent vegetation, which may disturb nearby wildlife and their habitat.  A Soil Management Plan (SMP) will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 Thus, through the development of mitigation measures and use of BMPs to be implemented during construction for managing soil materials on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site of the BRCE Project, these potential effects will be minimized to the extent practical. disposal);

Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through implementation of the Vegetation  In accordance with the SMP, topsoil will be stockpiled separately from other soil materials and used for Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. Vegetation that is removed will be compensated for in restoration to facilitate natural regeneration of native species through preservation of the existing seed accordance with the provisions of this Protocol, as follows: bank;

 Where re-vegetation is required, a native seed mix, which does not contain invasive species, will be used; and

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Metrolinx - Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Natural Environment Report – August 8, 2017

 If extensive invasion of non-native species is identified as a result of the BRCE Project, contingency operations/maintenance activities. Due to site access limitations, the presence of some natural features could not measures may include an applicable herbicide application. A herbicide application plan will be developed be confirmed. Where effects are unknown, discussions and engagement with municipalities, conservation as required and submitted to the applicable conservation authority for review. authorities and relevant agencies will be undertaken prior to Project construction. Metrolinx is committed to undertake future studies to inform the development of compensation strategies for implementation during • All requirements under the Ontario Water Resources Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. O.40 with respect to the quality of construction of the BRCE Project. water discharging into natural receivers will be met, including the following mitigation measures and best practices: It is anticipated that all effects can be mitigated through thoughtful and appropriate Project design, coupled with implementation of well-established mitigation measures, and industry BMPs. Potential effects that cannot be  Any discharge from dewatering should outlet to a vegetated area at least 30 metres from a significant avoided or mitigated will be addressed with appropriate compensation, where required. natural feature or watercourse utilizing a sediment filter bag;

 In the event of sediment discharge, all operations will stop immediately until the problem can be resolved; and

 If significant changes in water levels/seepage areas are noted, operations will cease until water levels recover.

• All construction activities and Project works will be conducted in accordance with appropriate timing windows (i.e., plants, breeding birds, bats, snakes, turtles, amphibians and fish);

• An Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report will be prepared prior to Project construction to identify anticipated effects associated with the Project, and to outline specific mitigation measures, as related to fish habitat loss and/or disturbance;

• Construction activities will occur in accordance with the Guidance for Development Activities in Redside Dace Protected Habitat (Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), 2016c);

• Wildlife exclusion fencing will be installed to direct wildlife to safe crossing locations. This fencing will be designed to exclude small mammals and reptiles from accessing the Barrie rail corridor;

• Additional exclusion fencing will be installed adjacent to two Deer Wintering Areas along the rail corridor and will be designed to exclude deer from accessing the Barrie rail corridor;

• Escape features will be incorporated to assist wildlife that become trapped (i.e., ramps allowing access over a fence);

• Exclusion fencing and escape features will be developed prior to Project construction and will be designed in consultation with the TRCA/LSRCA and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF);

• Passage structures (i.e., ecopassages) that accommodate movement of wildlife will be incorporated into the detailed design of associated culverts or bridges located at important wildlife crossing locations; and

• Any sightings of Endangered or Threatened species during construction will be reported within 48 hours or two business days to the MNRF and work in the area will cease until appropriate direction is provided by the MNRF.

Overall, the BRCE Project has the potential to result in a number of temporary and permanent effects to the natural environment. Potential effects associated with this Project may result from direct loss of natural features as well as indirect and accidental effects resulting from pre-construction land clearing, construction, and

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Metrolinx - Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Natural Environment Report – August 8, 2017

Table of Contents 4.8.3 Aquatic Conditions ...... 30 1. Introduction ...... 1 5. Findings of the Evaluation of Feature Significance ...... 36 1.1 Corridor Overview ...... 3 5.1 Wetlands and Provincially Significant Wetlands ...... 36 1.2 Study Area ...... 3 5.1.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance ...... 36 5.1.2 Findings of the Evaluation of Significance ...... 36 1.3 Areas of Site Investigation versus Areas of Desktop Analyses ...... 3 5.2 Significant Woodlands ...... 37 2. Natural Heritage Policy Review ...... 3 5.2.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance ...... 37 5.2.2 Findings of the Evaluation of Significance ...... 38 2.1 Provincial Planning Policies ...... 3 5.3 Significant Valleylands ...... 38 2.1.1 Provincial Policy Statement ...... 3 5.3.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance ...... 38 2.1.2 Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan ...... 4 5.3.2 Findings of the Evaluation of Significance ...... 38 2.1.3 The Greenbelt Plan ...... 5 5.4 Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest ...... 39 2.1.4 Lake Simcoe Protection Plan ...... 5 5.4.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance ...... 39 2.1.5 Endangered Species Act, 2007 ...... 9 5.4.2 Findings ...... 39 2.1.6 Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act ...... 9 5.5 Provincial Plan Specific Features ...... 39 2.2 Federal Requirements ...... 9 5.5.1 Sand Barrens, Savannahs and Tallgrass Prairies in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan 2.2.1 Fisheries Act ...... 9 ...... 39 2.2.2 Species at Risk Act ...... 9 5.5.2 Sand Barrens, Savannahs, Tallgrass Prairies and Alvars in the Greenbelt Plan ...... 40 2.2.3 Migratory Birds Convention Act ...... 10 5.5.3 Natural Areas Abutting Lake Simcoe in the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan ...... 40 2.3 Municipal Policies ...... 10 5.6 Significant Wildlife Habitat ...... 40 2.4 Conservation Authority Regulations ...... 11 5.6.1 Methodology Used to Identify Significant and Candidate Significant Habitats ...... 40 2.5 Policy Summary ...... 11 5.6.2 Findings for Significant Wildlife Habitat in Ecoregions 7E and 6E Outside of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area ...... 40 3. Methodology ...... 12 5.6.3 Findings for Significant Wildlife Habitat in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area 46 3.1 Background Information Review ...... 12 5.7 Special Concern and Rare Wildlife Species ...... 49 3.2 Site Investigations ...... 12 5.7.1 Methodology Used to Identify Candidate and Confirmed Habitats ...... 49 3.2.1 Vegetation Communities ...... 15 5.7.2 Findings ...... 50 3.2.2 Aquatic Habitats ...... 15 5.8 Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species ...... 52 3.2.3 Cultural Features of Ecological Value ...... 15 5.8.1 Methodology Used to Identify Significant and Candidate Significant Habitats ...... 52 3.2.4 Evaluation of Feature Significance ...... 15 5.8.2 Findings ...... 53 3.3 Methodology Limitations ...... 17 5.9 Fish and Fish Habitat ...... 56 5.9.1 West Don River System ...... 56 4. Findings of the Background Information Review and Site Investigations ...... 17 5.9.2 East Humber River System ...... 57 5.9.3 East Holland River System ...... 57 4.1 Landform and Physiography ...... 17 5.9.4 West Holland River System ...... 58 4.2 Soil and Bedrock Geology ...... 19 5.9.5 Innisfil Creeks System ...... 58 4.3 Vegetation ...... 19 5.9.6 Hewitt’s Creek System ...... 58 4.4 Agricultural Environments ...... 23 5.9.7 Lovers Creek ...... 58 5.9.8 Whiskey Creek ...... 58 4.5 Cultural Features of Ecological Value ...... 23 5.10 Natural Heritage Systems ...... 58 4.6 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat ...... 23 5.10.1 Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Natural Core and Natural Linkage Areas ...... 58 4.6.1 Mammals ...... 24 5.10.2 Greenbelt Plan Natural Heritage System ...... 59 4.6.2 Amphibians and Reptiles ...... 24 4.6.3 Avifauna ...... 25 5.11 Ecological Linkages ...... 59 4.7 Groundwater ...... 25 5.12 Summary of Significant and Candidate Significant Features ...... 62 4.8 Surface Water ...... 26 6. Impact Assessment of the Preferred Design ...... 62 4.8.1 Hydrology ...... 26 4.8.2 Water Quality ...... 26 6.1 Rail Infrastructure ...... 63

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6.1.1 Potential Effects ...... 63 Table 5-11: Ecological Linkages Crossing the Barrie Rail Corridor ...... 60 6.1.2 Mitigation Measures ...... 67 Table 6-1: Summary of Significant Natural Areas to be Removed to Accommodate the Rail Infrastructure ...... 64 6.1.3 Net Effects ...... 71 Table 6-2: Summary of Wildlife Habitats to be Removed to Accommodate the Rail Infrastructure ...... 65 6.1.4 Monitoring Activities ...... 72 Table 6-3: Habitat Timing Windows ...... 68 6.2 GO Station Improvements ...... 73 Table 6-4: Summary of Natural Area to be Removed to Accommodate the GO Station Improvements ...... 74 6.2.1 Potential Effects ...... 73 Table 6-5: Summary of Natural Area to be Removed to Accommodate the Bradford Layover Facility ...... 79 6.2.2 Mitigation Measures ...... 75 Table 6-6: Rail Infrastructure - Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring Activities 6.2.3 Net Effects ...... 78 of the Preferred Design ...... 83 6.2.4 Monitoring Activities ...... 78 Table 6-7: GO Station Improvements – Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring Activities of the Preferred Design ...... 93 6.3 Bradford Layover Facility ...... 79 6.3.1 Potential Effects ...... 79 Table 6-8: Bradford Layover Facility – Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring 6.3.2 Mitigation Measures ...... 80 Activities of the Preferred Design ...... 101 6.3.3 Net Effects ...... 82 List of Photos 6.3.4 Monitoring Activities ...... 82 6.4 Summary of Potential Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring Activities ...... 83 Photo 3-1: A deciduous forest with an understory of Canada Anemone (Anemone Canadensis) in flower (Mile 23.94)...... 15 Photo 3-2: Amphibian survey station at a Candidate Significant Habitat (Mile 28.85)...... 16 7. Conclusions ...... 106 Photo 4-1: Cultural meadow adjacent to the corridor (Mile 32.19)...... 20 Photo 4-2: Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) (Mile 17.45)...... 24 8. References ...... 107 Photo 4-3: Wetland providing Candidate Significant Habitat for a variety of amphibians and reptiles (Mile 28.84)...... 24 Photo 4-4: Vegetated channel with robust riparian vegetation and treed canopy (Mile 56.47)...... 26 List of Figures Photo 4-5: Tributary of the East Holland River with a perched Corrugated Steel Pipe (CSP) culvert (Mile 35.31)...... 29 Figure 1-1: Study Area ...... 2 Photo 4-6: Pair of culverts feeding a rocky stream. Signs of erosion/undercutting along bank (Mile 37.34)...... 29 Figure 2-1: Planning Jurisdictions ...... 6 Photo 4-7: The water in Tannery Creek features low turbidity, and large gravel substrate well-suited for fish spawning (Mile Figure 2-2: Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Natural Core and Natural Linkage Areas ...... 7 28.80)...... 32 Figure 2-3: Greenbelt Plan – Natural Heritage System ...... 8 Photo 4-8: Branch of Tannery Creek with robust riparian vegetation and canopy cover (Mile 31.50) ...... 32 Figure 4-1: Physiographic Regions ...... 18 Photo 4-9: Red Osier Dogwood shrub thicket (Mile 20.86) ...... 34 Figure 4-2: Ecoregions of Southern Ontario ...... 21 Photo 5-1: Unevaluated wetlands in study area (Mile 54.84) ...... 36 Figure 4-3: Watersheds and Subwatersheds ...... 28 Photo 5-2: Osprey nest on a standing snag (Mile 47.89)...... 44 Photo 5-3: Predated turtle eggs near a disturbed nest (Mile 42.49)...... 44 List of Tables Photo 5-4: Terrestrial Crayfish chimney, species unknown (Mile 31.50)...... 45 Table 2-1: Policy Summary ...... 11 Photo 5-5: Candidate Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetlands) (Mile 26.55) ...... 48 Table 3-1: Survey Methodologies ...... 13 Photo 5-6: Redside Dace habitat in the East Humber River (Mile 24.98)...... 56 Table 3-2: Amphibian Call Level Codes ...... 16 Photo 5-7: Tributary of the East Holland River meandering through meadow marsh interspersed with a few Spruce trees Table 4-1: Quaternary Geology of the Study Area (Ontario Geological Survey Map 2566) ...... 19 (Picea species) (Mile 32.19) ...... 57 Table 4-2: Summary of Vegetation Communities ...... 22 Photo 5-8: Gabian armouring along a bank of the East Holland River (Mile 34.25) ...... 57 Table 4-3: Vegetation Community Complexes ...... 23 Photo 5-9: Nokidaa Bike Trail within the East Holland River Valley (Mile 33.09)...... 59 Table 4-4: Characterization of Aquifer Vulnerability ...... 26 Table 4-5: Major Subwatersheds in the Study Area ...... 26 Table 4-6: Major Watercourse Crossings in the Study Area ...... 31 List of Appendices Table 5-1: Wetland Summary ...... 37 Appendix A Drawings Table 5-2: Woodland Summary ...... 38 Table 5-3: Significant Valleylands ...... 39 A.1 Drawing NER-01, Vegetation and Significant Natural Areas Table 5-4: Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest ...... 39 A.2 Drawing NER-02, Fish and Wildlife Habitat Table 5-5: Number of Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitats in Ecoregions 7E and 6E Outside of the Oak Ridges Moraine1 ...... 42 Appendix B Relevant Municipal Natural Heritage Policies 1 Table 5-6: Number of Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitats in Ecoregions 7E and 6E Outside of the Oak Ridges Moraine Appendix C Natural Heritage Information Centre Search Results ...... 43 Table 5-7: Number of Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitats in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area ...... 47 C.1 Natural Heritage Information Centre Search Results Table 5-8: Number of Candidate Significant Habitats for Species of Conservation Concern1 ...... 50 C.2 Natural Heritage Information Centre Results- Preliminary Screening of Species of Conservation Table 5-9: Number of Significant Habitats for Species of Conservation Concern (Western Chorus Frog) ...... 52 Concern Table 5-10: Number of Candidate Significant and Significant Habitats for Endangered and Threatened Species1 ...... 53

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C.3 Natural Heritage Information Centre Results- Preliminary Screening of Endangered and Threatened Species Appendix D Aquatic Habitat Survey Data Appendix E Amphibian Habitat Survey Data Appendix F Turtle Overwintering Survey Data Appendix G Breeding Bird Summary Table Appendix H Significant Natural Areas - Wetlands and Significant Woodlands Appendix I Significant Natural Areas – Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest and Significant Valleylands Appendix J Wildlife Habitat Outside of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area Appendix K Wildlife Habitat in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area Appendix L Species of Conservation Concern L.1 Species of Conservation Concern Screening L.2 Species of Conservation Concern Summary Appendix M Candidate Habitats of Endangered and Threatened Species Screening

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Glossary of Terms and Acronyms Glossary of Terms and Acronyms

AMO: Atlas of the Mammals of Ontario GGHACA: Greater Golden Horseshoe Area Conservation Authorities

ANSI: Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest GIS: Geographic Information System

BMPs: Best Management Practices GPS: Global Positioning System

BHA: Butternut Health Assessment Greenbelt A plan established under Section 3 of the Greenbelt Act, 2005, to protect important lands Plan: around the Golden Horseshoe. It is a cornerstone of Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe BRCE: Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Growth Plan.

BSC: Bird Studies Canada GTA: Greater Toronto Area

Burnside: R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited HDF: Headwater Drainage Feature

COSEWIC: Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada IBI: Index of Biotic Integrity

CRA Commercial, Recreational and Aboriginal Fishery KHFs: Key Hydrologic Features Fishery: KNHFs: Key Natural Heritage Features CSP: Corrugated Steel Pipe LIO: Land Information Ontario CTC: Credit Valley, Toronto and Region and Central Lake Ontario LSPP: Lake Simcoe Protection Plan DBH: Diameter at Breast Height LSRCA: Lake Simcoe and Region Conservation Authority DDT: dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane MBCA: Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 DFO: Fisheries and Oceans Canada MBR: Migratory Bird Regulations DNAPL: Dense Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid MMAH: Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing EA: Environmental Assessment MNR/ Ministry of Natural Resources/Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. The name of EAA: Environmental Assessment Act the Ministry of Natural Resources was changed to the Ministry of Natural Resources and MNRF: Forestry in 2014. Thus, MNR and MNRF are considered to be synonymous for the ELC: Ecological Land Classification purposes of this Report. ECCC: Environment and Climate Change Canada MOE/ Ministry of the Environment/Ministry of the Environment and Energy/Ministry of the MOEE/ Environment and Climate Change. The Ministry of the Environment was created in 1972 EPR: Environmental Project Report MOECC: and merged with the Ministry of Energy to form the Ministry of Environment and Energy ESA: Endangered Species Act (MOEE) from 1993 to 1997 and again in 2002. The Ministry of the Environment changed its name to Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) on June 24, 2014. Thus, ESC: Erosion and Sediment Control

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Glossary of Terms and Acronyms Glossary of Terms and Acronyms

MOE, MOEE and MOECC are considered to be synonymous for the purposes of this ROW: Right-of-Way Report. SAR: Species at Risk MPIR: Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal SARA: Species at Risk Act NAG: Non-intensive Agricultural Feature SARO: Species at Risk in Ontario List NER: Natural Environment Report SCC: Species of Conservation Concern NHIC: Natural Heritage Information Centre SMP: Soil Management Plan NHRM: Natural Heritage Reference Manual SWH: Significant Wetland Habitat NHS: Natural Heritage System SWHTG: Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide OBBA: Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas TPAP: Transit Project Assessment Process OP: Official Plan – Describes an upper, lower or single-tier municipal council’s policies on how land within their respective jurisdiction should be used. The OP typically identifies where TPZ: Tree Protection Zone new industry, housing, offices and shops will be located and how, and in what order, parts TRCA: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority of the community will grow, among other issues. TRSPA: Toronto Region Source Protection Area ORM: Oak Ridges Moraine TSS: Total Suspended Solids ORMCP: Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan – Ecologically based plan established by the Ontario government to provide land use and resource management direction for the WHPA: Wellhead Protection Area 190,000 hectares of land and water within the Moraine.

OWES: Ontario Wetland Evaluation System

PCBs: polychlorinated biphenyls

PPS: Provincial Policy Statement, 2014 – the statement of the government’s policies on land use planning.

PSW: Provincially Significant Wetland

PWQMN: Provincial Water Quality Monitoring Network

PWQO: Provincial Water Quality Objectives

RNFP: Ravine and Natural Feature Protection

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• Peak period, peak direction 30-minute or better service between Allandale Waterfront GO Station and Union 1. Introduction Station;

Metrolinx, an agency of the Province of Ontario, has proposed the expansion of the Barrie rail corridor and is • Off-peak, two-way 60-minute service or better between Allandale Waterfront GO Station and Union Station; evaluating the environmental effects of this transit project in accordance with the Transit Project Assessment and Process (TPAP). The TPAP is regulated by the Environmental Assessment Act (EAA) under Ontario Regulation • Electrification of the entire Barrie rail corridor13. 231/08 – Transit Projects and Metrolinx Undertakings (O. Reg. 231/08). The existing Barrie rail corridor is primarily a single track, approximately 63 miles in length, running from Union Station in the City of Toronto to Allandale The following service level scenarios were assessed as a part of this TPAP: Waterfront GO Station (Mile 63.00 Newmarket Subdivision) in the City of Barrie as shown in Figure 1-1. • Current: 14 diesel trains from Union Station to Allandale Waterfront GO Station in 2016;

• A second track between Lansdowne Avenue in the City of Toronto (Mile 3.00) to Allandale Waterfront GO • Future, Scenario 2: up to 180 electric trains from Union Station to Aurora GO Station in 2025 and beyond, 1011 Station in the City of Barrie (Mile 63.00) ; which includes 46 electric trains between Aurora and Allandale Waterfront GO Station 14.

• A new layover facility within the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury for overnight storage of trains. • Spadina (at Front Street) in the City of Toronto;

The BRCE Project will be implemented in different phases. The first phase of the BRCE Project includes the • Bloor-Davenport (Bloor Street near Lansdowne Avenue) in the City of Toronto; corridor infrastructure components to support the GO Expansion program over the next 10 years. As such, Phase • Kirby (near Keele Street) in the City of Vaughan; One includes: • Mulock (near Bayview Avenue) in the Town of Newmarket; and • Detailed design and construction of a second track from Tecumseth Street in the City of Toronto (Mile 1.35) to Aurora GO Station (Mile 29.90)12; • Innisfil (at 6th Line) in the Town of Innisfil.

• All-day, two-way 15-minute service between Aurora GO Station and Union Station;

10The portion of the corridor from north of Bloor Street (Mile 3.91) to south of Davenport Road (Mile 4.87) falls within the 12 The portion of the corridor from Tecumseth Street (Mile 1.35) to Lansdowne Avenue (Mile 3.00) was assessed under a area of the Davenport Diamond Grade Separation project which was assessed under a separate TPAP and includes a separate TPAP (Georgetown South Service Expansion and Union-Pearson Rail Link Environmental Project Report, July double track only. 2009), however the additional track work within this section has been included as part of the detailed design of Phase One 11 The double track expansion for the section of the Barrie rail corridor between south of Steeles Avenue (Mile 12.86) in the of the BRCE Project. City of Toronto and south of the Rutherford GO Station (Mile 16.50) in the City of Vaughan was assessed under a separate 13 The electrification of the Barrie rail corridor is being assessed under a separate TPAP. As such, the GO Rail Environmental Assessment (EA) (Barrie Corridor Double Track Expansion Project Summary Report, August 2014) and is Electrification TPAP will address any electrification considerations for the corridor beyond the works proposed as part of the not included as part of this TPAP. BRCE TPAP. 14 Assessed as part of a separate system-wide Electrification TPAP.

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Figure 1-1: Study Area

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1.1 Corridor Overview • Areas of Desktop Analyses: These areas are comprised of all portions of the study area which could not be The Barrie rail corridor is owned by Metrolinx who operate a commuter (passenger) rail service between Union viewed from the ROW. Analyses of these areas were limited to aerial photo interpretation, available Station (Mile 0.00) and the Allandale Waterfront GO Station (Mile 63.00). Oriented generally in a north/south secondary source information and extrapolation from observations made from the ROW. Additional detailed direction, the rail corridor is approximately 63 miles in length and has 10 stations (excluding Union Station). The site investigations will be completed within the Areas of Desktop Analysis prior to construction of the BRCE corridor crosses a number of municipalities, including from south to north the: City of Toronto, Regional Project. Municipality of York (hereafter referred to as York Region), City of Vaughan, Township of King, Town of Aurora, Town of Newmarket, Town of East Gwillimbury, County of Simcoe, Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, Town of 2. Natural Heritage Policy Review Innisfil, and City of Barrie. Under the TPAP process, proponents must identify potential effects, mitigation measures, and monitoring Trains are currently stored overnight at the Barrie Layover Facility located between Mile 62.17 and Mile 62.84 in associated with natural features17 of provincial importance (identified as Significant Features1819 for the purposes the City of Barrie. Bus service is available for off-peak hours at all stations along the Barrie rail corridor except of this Report). This includes features listed in the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) (MMAH, 2014), the ORMCP the York University GO Station in the City of Toronto. There are also infrequent Canadian National Railway (CNR) (MMAH, 2002), LSPP (MOE, 2009), Greenbelt Plan (MMAH, 2005), the Endangered Species Act (ESA, 2007) freight and VIA Rail services operating within the Barrie rail corridor. and Federal Fisheries Act.

1.2 Study Area The BRCE Project also falls within the jurisdiction of 11 single-tier, upper-tier, and lower-tier municipalities and The TPAP study limits covers 60 miles of the Barrie rail corridor from Mile 3.00 to Mile 63.00 and crosses the 11 two conservation authorities, all of which have local and/or watershed based policies for the protection of the municipalities identified in the corridor overview above. The study area for this TPAP has been defined as 120 natural environment. As an agency of the Province of Ontario, Metrolinx is not subject to conservation authority metres from the outermost extent of the expansion elements described above (i.e., from the proposed Right-of- or municipal permits and approvals requirements. However, Metrolinx policy is to adhere to the intent of the Way (ROW), and footprint of the GO Station improvements and the Bradford Layover Facility). This is based on relevant permit/approval requirements to the greatest extent possible. In this regard, Metrolinx has engaged with several guidance documents including the Natural Heritage Reference Manual (NHRM), 2nd Edition (Ministry of the municipalities and conservation authorities during the BRCE TPAP and will continue to communicate prior to Natural Resources (MNR15, 2010), Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) (Ministry of Municipal Project construction and throughout the future construction phases of the Project to confirm that any concerns Affairs and Housing (MMAH), 2002, Greenbelt Plan (MMAH, 2005) and Lake Simcoe Protection Plan (LSPP) are addressed to the greatest extent possible. (Ministry of the Environment (MOE), 2009) which identify a distance of 120 metres as the distance from which the effects of development could be felt on natural features. The study area is shown in in Drawings NER-01 and 2.1 Provincial Planning Policies NER-02, provided in Appendices A.1 and A.2 of this Report, respectively. 2.1.1 Provincial Policy Statement 1.3 Areas of Site Investigation versus Areas of Desktop Analyses The PPS (MMAH, 2014) provides the government’s direction on planning, resources use, and protection, and is At the time of the site investigations, access rights had not been granted to adjacent properties and all data the complementary policy document to the Planning Act. The PPS (2014) provides direction on matters of collection was completed from the existing Barrie rail corridor (or ROW)16. The study area described above was provincial interest related to land use planning and development and promotes the provincial “policy-led” planning therefore divided into the following study area subunits: system that recognizes and addresses the complex interrelationship among environmental, economic and social factors in land use planning (MMAH, 2014). • Areas of Site Investigation: This area included all lands within the existing ROW and adjacent lands which could be viewed from within the ROW. The line of sight varied in areas based on vegetation cover or other The PPS (2014) applies to projects approved under the Planning Act and thus does not apply directly to the BRCE barriers (e.g., noise walls); and Project. However, the PPS (2014) and its associated guidance documents provide detailed criteria to identify natural features of “provincial significance”. These are assumed to be equivalent to the “features of provincial

15 Since this document was published, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has changed its name to the Ministry of • Wildlife Habitat (Significant Wildlife Habitat, Habitat of Species of Conservation Concern, Habitat of Endangered and Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). This changed occurred in 2014. MNR and MNRF are considered to be Threatened Species); synonymous for the purposes of this Report. • Fish Habitat; and 16 For the purposes of this Report, “rail corridor” and “right-of-way (ROW)” are considered to be synonymous. • Ecological Linkages. 17 For the purposes of this Report, natural features are defined as the natural and human-influenced vegetation that 19 For the purposes of this Report, the following terms are used to describe Significant Natural Features: provides ecological function and value. This includes wetlands, woodlands, open country grass and shrub lands, vegetated • Significant Natural Features: All features of provincial importance. For example, a Significant Woodland is defined as valleys and aquatic systems. Natural features are synonymous with “natural heritage features”. woodland that is of provincial importance. 18 Significant Features are natural features that have been identified in the PPS (2014) and various Provincial Plans as • Candidate Significant Natural Features, defined as features which may be significant but for which significance has not having provincial importance. In this Report, these have been categorized as follows: been confirmed through various habitat use studies or other evaluation processes. • Significant Natural Areas (Provincially Significant Wetlands, Significant Woodlands, Significant Valleylands, ANSI, Natural Areas Adjacent to Lake Simcoe);

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importance” which must be assessed through the TPAP process. As such, for the remainder of this Report, • Significant Valleylands; features of provincial importance are referred to as Significant Natural Features. Section 2.1 of the PPS (2014) • Significant Woodlands; identifies the following features as being of provincial significance: • Significant Wildlife Habitat; and • Significant wetlands or significant coastal wetlands; • Sand barrens, savannahs and tallgrass prairies. • Significant Woodlands; Section 26(1) of the ORMCP also identifies Key Hydrologic Features (KHFs) as including: • Significant Valleylands; • Permanent and intermittent streams; • Significant Wildlife Habitat; • Wetlands; • Significant Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSIs); • Kettle lakes; and • Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species; and • Seeps and Springs. • Fish habitat. This Report addresses the ecological functions of wetlands and watercourses with respect to habitat. The Guidance for identifying and determining the significance of these features is provided in the following supporting hydrologic functions of these features will be addressed more thoroughly in the various Hydrogeological Studies documents: and the Stormwater Management Report to be prepared prior to construction of the BRCE Project. As such, KHFs • NHRM, 2nd Edition (MNR, 2010); are not addressed directly in this Report.

• Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (SWHTG) (MNR, 2000); and Section 22(2) of the ORMCP states that all development within a KNHF is prohibited, except “transportation, infrastructure, and utilities”. Section 41 describes transportation, infrastructure, and utilities to include: transit lines, • Significant Wildlife Habitat Criteria Schedules for Ecoregions 6E and 7E (Ministry of Natural Resources and railways and related facilities and ROWs required for facilities listed. Forestry (MNRF, 2015b)). The ORMCP also includes designations for Natural Core and Natural Linkage Areas, as shown in Figure 2-2. In Applicability to the BRCE Project accordance with Section 41, transportation infrastructure should not be located in Natural Core Areas or Natural Though the BRCE Project is not subject to the policies of the PPS (2014), this Project is consistent with the PPS Linkage Areas unless it has been demonstrated that there is no reasonable alternative and impacts to natural (2014), supporting transportation choices that increase the use of active transportation and transit before other features will be minimized to the extent possible. Furthermore, infrastructure will only be permitted if the project modes of travel. As such, it is Metrolinx’s intent to meet the spirit and intent of the PPS (2014) to the extent does not include a planned or future transit or railway station in a Natural Core Area. Transportation infrastructure possible. The criteria listed in the PPS (2014) and its supporting documents will be referenced throughout this within Natural Linkage Areas must ensure the following to the extent possible: Report as a means to identify natural features of provincial importance within the study area, which are shown in • That the need for the project has been demonstrated and there is no reasonable alternative; Figure 2-1. • ROW widths and construction areas will be kept to a minimum; 2.1.2 Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan The ORMCP (MMAH, 2002), was created under the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. • The project will allow for wildlife movement; and 31. The ORMCP is an ecologically based plan, established by the Ontario government to provide land use and • Adverse effects to natural features will be kept to a minimum. resource management direction for the 190,000 ha of land and water within the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM). Under Section 22(1) of the ORMCP, Key Natural Heritage Features (KNHFs) are identified as being of provincial Guidance on identifying KNHFs is provided in a series of Technical Papers, including the following which are of importance and include: relevance to the BRCE Project:

• Wetlands; • ORMCP Technical Paper Series: #1 Identification of KNHF;

• Significant portions of the habitat of Endangered, rare and Threatened Species; • ORMCP Technical Paper Series: #2 Significant Wildlife Habitat;

• Fish habitat; • ORMCP Technical Paper Series: #5 Identification and Protection of Vegetation Protection Zones for Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (Life Science ANSIs); • ANSI (life science);

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• ORMCP Technical Paper Series: #6 Identification of Significant Portions of Endangered, Rare and • Sand barrens, savannahs and tallgrass prairies; and Threatened Species; and • Alvars. • ORMCP Technical Paper Series: #7 Identification and Protection of Significant Woodlands. Guidance on identifying KNHFs is provided in the following Technical Paper: Applicability to the BRCE Project • Technical Definitions and Criteria for KNHF in the NHS of the Protected Countryside (MNR, 2012). The BRCE Project crosses the ORM through portions of York Region as shown in Figure 2-2. Natural Core Areas The Greenbelt Plan also identifies, and provides protection for KHFs. As noted under ORMCP policies above, and Natural Linkages are present in proximity to the existing Barrie rail corridor. As per Section 41 of the ORMCP, these features will be addressed in other BRCE Reports and are not within the scope of the NER. this Report is intended to demonstrate that impacts to these features will be minimized to the extent possible. While the BRCE Project does not include any planned or future rail station in any Natural Core Areas, the existing Applicability to the BRCE Project King City GO Station is located within this designation. No other GO Stations on the Barrie rail corridor are found The existing Barrie rail corridor traverses the Greenbelt Plan Area through portions of York Region and the County within ORMCP Natural Core Areas. Though the King City GO Station predates the ORMCP, potential effects and of Simcoe as shown in Figure 2-1. Most of the area coincides with the ORMCP Area and has been assessed mitigation measures associated with this GO Station are described in Section 6.2 of this Report. under those policies. A small section of the existing Barrie rail corridor crosses the Greenbelt, outside of the ORM, 2.1.3 The Greenbelt Plan through the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury. The BRCE Project serves the growth and economic development The Greenbelt Plan (MMAH, 2005) includes lands within, and builds upon the ecological protections provided by expected in southern Ontario by supporting growth in identified urban growth centres by providing connections to the ORMCP detailed above. It is also designed to complement and strengthen other provincial strategies, such urban growth centres not in the Greenbelt Plan Area. as the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (Growth Plan) (Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal 2.1.4 Lake Simcoe Protection Plan (MPIR), 2006). The purpose of the Lake Simcoe Protection Act, 2008, S.O. 2008, c. 23 is to protect and restore the ecological The purpose of the Greenbelt Plan is to protect ecological features and important agricultural lands in a zone health of the Lake Simcoe watershed. Policies to achieve these goals are designated under the LSPP (MOE, around the Golden Horseshoe, that is, the Greenbelt Area, as defined by O. Reg. 59/05. Section 4.2.1 of the 2009). The LSPP’s objectives include protecting the Lake Simcoe watershed by building on policies provided by Greenbelt Plan (General Infrastructure Policies) states that new or expanded infrastructure approved under the the ORMCP, the Greenbelt Plan, and provincial legislation. Environmental Assessment Act (EAA), R.S.O. 1990, c.E.18 is permitted, if it serves the significant growth and Policy 6.23-DP states that development and site alteration is not permitted within key feature zones, except for economic development expected in southern Ontario beyond the Greenbelt by providing infrastructure connections among urban growth centres. Section 4.2.1 of the Greenbelt Plan also states that where “Infrastructure, but only if the need for the project has been demonstrated through an infrastructure must cross the Natural Heritage System (NHS), impacts to natural features shall be minimized to Environmental Assessment or other similar environmental approval and there the extent possible. Where the boundaries of the Greenbelt Plan Area and ORMCP Area coincide, the ORMCP is no reasonable alternative”. will take precedent. Policy 6.21-DP describes KNHFs as: The NHS within the Greenbelt Plan Area, shown in Figure 2-3, is comprised • Wetlands; of the following KNHFs: • Significant Woodlands; • Significant habitat of Endangered Species; • Significant Valleylands; and • Threatened Species and Special Concern Species; • Natural areas abutting Lake Simcoe. • Fish habitat; As with the ORMCP and Greenbelt Plan, KHFs will be addressed in other BRCE • Wetlands; Reports to be prepared as part of the detailed design phase and are therefore • Life Science ANSIs; not discussed further within this NER. Where the LSPP coincides with the ORMCP and Greenbelt Plan, the policies of those plans take precedence. • Significant Valleylands;

• Significant Woodlands;

• Significant Wildlife Habitat;

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Figure 2-1: Planning Jurisdictions

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Figure 2-2: Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Natural Core and Natural Linkage Areas

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Figure 2-3: Greenbelt Plan – Natural Heritage System

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Applicability to the BRCE Project 2.2 Federal Requirements

The existing Barrie rail corridor traverses through a portion of the LSPP Area within the Towns of Aurora, 2.2.1 Fisheries Act Newmarket, East Gwillimbury, Bradford West Gwillimbury, and Innisfil, and the City of Barrie, as shown in Figure The Fisheries Act, R.S.C., 1985, c.F-14 is regulated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). On June 29, 2012, 2-1. Much of the area coincides with the ORMCP Area and Greenbelt Plan Area and has been assessed under amendments to the Federal Fisheries Act were approved. The changes are focused on protecting the productivity those policies. Potential effects are discussed further in Section 6 of this Report. of Commercial, Recreational and Aboriginal Fishery (CRA Fishery). On November 25, 2013, amended fish and fish habitat and pollution prevention provisions came into effect. The Federal Government is now focusing 2.1.5 Endangered Species Act, 2007 protection rules on real and significant threats to the fisheries and the habitat that supports them, while setting The ESA, 2007 provides protection for Species at Risk (SAR) and their habitat. The ESA is administered by the clear standards and guidelines for routine projects. The amended Federal Fisheries Act: MNRF and provides policies for the protection of Extirpated, Endangered and Threatened Species, as well as species of Special Concern. All at-risk species are classified into one of these four categories, subject to their • Focuses the Act's regulatory regime on managing threats to the sustainability and ongoing productivity of rarity in the province and level of vulnerability. The Species at Risk in Ontario List (SARO) forms the official listing Canada's CRA Fisheries; of SAR. • Provides enhanced compliance and protection tools; The ESA, 2007 helps protect species (Section 9) and their habitat (Section 10). Section 9(1)(a) of the ESA states, • Provides clarity, certainty and consistency of regulatory requirements through the use of standards and “no person shall kill, harm, harass, capture or take a living member of a species that is listed on the SARO regulations; and list as Extirpated, Endangered and Threatened”. • Enables enhanced partnerships to ensure agencies and organizations that are best placed to provide Section 10(1)(a) of the ESA states, fisheries protection services to Canadians are enabled to do so.

“no person shall damage or destroy the habitat of a species that is listed on the Species at Risk in Ontario list The Fisheries Act requires that any development project avoid causing serious harm to fish unless authorized by as an endangered or threated species”. DFO. This applies to any works being undertaken in or near waterbodies that support fish that are part of, or that support a CRA Fishery. The ESA includes a general habitat regulation as well as species-specific habitat regulations which currently define specific habitat areas for 31 species. This Report focuses on Commercial and Recreational Fisheries. The presence of, and potential effects to, Aboriginal Fisheries are identified in the Stakeholder Consultation Report provided in Appendix J of the BRCE Applicability to the BRCE Project EPR. It is Metrolinx’s intent to avoid effects to the habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species where possible. Applicability to the BRCE Project Where effects cannot be avoided, a permit under the ESA will be required, or regulatory exemptions under the Act will apply. Permitting requirements are discussed further within Section 6 of the BRCE EPR. Any waterbody or watercourse that contains fish during any time of the year, and/or contributes to a CRA Fishery as described in the Fisheries Act, and could be impacted by the proposed works is protected by the Federal 2.1.6 Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act Fisheries Act. Documented waterbodies and watercourses that are part of, or contribute to a CRA Fishery are The purpose of this Act is to provide strategic long-term infrastructure planning that supports job creation and listed within the data and are shown on maps to illustrate proximity to the proposed BRCE Project. Fisheries Act training opportunities, economic growth and protection of the environment. compliance is required as part of the proposed works; and consultation with DFO will occur prior to Project Section 3.11 states that: construction.

“Infrastructure planning and investment should minimize the impact of infrastructure on the 2.2.2 Species at Risk Act environment and respect and help maintain ecological and biological diversity, and infrastructure The Species at Risk Act (SARA) contains prohibitions against the killing, harming, harassing, capturing, taking, should be designed to be resilient to the effects of climate change.” possessing, collecting, buying, selling or trading of individuals of Endangered, Threatened and Extirpated Species listed in Schedule 1 of the Act. The Act also contains a prohibition against the damage or destruction of their Applicability to the BRCE Project residences (e.g., nest or den). These prohibitions apply to: It is Metrolinx’s intent to minimize effects on the environment. Potential effects are discussed further in Section 6 of this Report. Measures to address climate change are included in the EPR.

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• All Endangered, Threatened and Extirpated Species listed in Schedule 1 of SARA when found on federal areas distributed across Canada. While this does not mean nesting birds will not nest outside of these periods, lands in a province, or lands under the authority of Environment and Climate Change Canada20 (ECCC) or the calendars can be used to greatly reduce the risk of encountering a nest. Environment and Climate Change the Parks Canada Agency in a territory; Canada advises avoidance as the best approach.

• All Endangered, Threatened and Extirpated migratory birds listed in Schedule 1 of SARA and protected by Applicability to the BRCE Project the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994 (MBCA, 1994) anywhere they occur, including private lands, Migratory birds and their nests are likely to be present along, and adjacent to, the Barrie rail corridor. Any tree or provincial lands and lands within a territory; and vegetation removal will need to occur outside the breeding bird timing window, such that it will not disturb or • All Endangered, Threatened and Extirpated aquatic species listed in Schedule 1 of SARA, anywhere they destroy any active nests. The breeding bird timing window for the BRCE study area is April 1st to August 31st of occur, including private lands, provincial lands and lands within a territory. any given year.

The Act also has a provision to protect species designated as Endangered or Threatened by a provincial or 2.3 Municipal Policies territorial government when found on federal lands. The BRCE Project traverses 11 municipalities, as shown in Figure 2-1. From south to north these municipalities include the following single-tier, upper-tier and lower-tier municipalities: In addition, in certain circumstances, SARA prohibitions may be applied to protect any other species listed in Schedule 1 of SARA when found on private lands, provincial lands or lands within a territory, if provincial/territorial • City of Toronto; laws do not effectively protect the species or its residence. • York Region; Applicability to the BRCE Project  City of Vaughan; There is one federally owned property within the study area, Downsview Park. Should any SAR be present and  Township of King; potentially affected by the Project within the limits of this federally owned property, consultation with the Canadian Wildlife Service may be necessary to confirm any permitting requirements.  Town of Aurora;

2.2.3 Migratory Birds Convention Act  Town of Newmarket; and The MBCA, 1994 and the Migratory Bird Regulations (MBR) are federal legislative requirements that are binding  Town of East Gwillimbury; on members of the public and all levels of government, including federal and provincial governments. The legislation protects certain species21, controls the harvest of others, and prohibits commercial sale of all species. • County of Simcoe; One key responsibility under the MBCA, 1994 is described in Section 6 of the associated MBR:  Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury; “Subject to subsection 5(9), no person shall:  Town of Innisfil; and • Disturb, destroy or take a nest, egg, nest shelter, Eider Duck shelter or duck box of a migratory bird, or • City of Barrie. • Have in his possession a live migratory bird, or a carcass, skin, nest or egg of a migratory bird except under Municipalities have the authority, through Official Plans (OPs) and Zoning By-laws to protect natural features from authority of a permit therefor.” development approved under the Planning Act. Each municipality has identified provincially significant and local The “incidental take” of migratory birds and the disturbance, destruction or taking of the nest of a migratory bird natural features in their respective OP mapping using “Greenlands”, “Environmental Protection” or other is prohibited. “Incidental take” is the killing or harming of migratory birds due to actions, such as economic equivalent land use designation. These designations typically include provincially significant features such as development, which are not primarily focused on taking migratory birds. No permit can be issued for the incidental Provincially Significant Wetlands (PSWs), Significant Woodlands and ANSIs as well as locally significant features, take of migratory birds or their nest or eggs as a result of economic activities. These prohibitions apply throughout including unevaluated wetlands, evaluated non-PSWs, locally identified Environmentally Significant (or Sensitive) the year. Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Service have compiled nesting Areas and watercourses, hazard lands and other features identified by the municipality. These designations calendars that show the variation in nesting intensity, by habitat type and nesting zone, within broad geographical

20 Environment Canada was renamed Environment and Climate Change Canada in 2015. For the purposes of this Report 1994. However, they are protected under provincial legislation which restricts and regulates the taking or possession of Environment Canada and ECCC are considered to be synonymous. eggs and nests. Furthermore, if the species identified is protected under Ontario’s Endangered Species Act, 2007 or the 21 Bird species not regulated under the Act include: Rock Dove, American Crow, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, federal Species at Risk Act, additional restrictions may apply. House Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, and European Starling. In addition, raptors are not regulated under the MBCA,

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include various restrictions pertaining to developments approved under the Planning Act. A summary of each of the TRCA and LSRCA requirements to the greatest extent possible. Metrolinx has engaged with the affected relevant municipal policy is provided in Appendix B of this Report. municipalities and conservation authorities during the BRCE TPAP and will continue to communicate prior to construction and throughout the future construction phases for the Project. This Report refers to regulated areas The City of Toronto also protects ravines, forests larger than 0.5 ha, Environmentally Sensitive Areas, ANSIs, incidentally as a means to identify other natural features (i.e., Valleylands). Voluntary compliance with among other features through its Ravine and Natural Feature Protection (RNFP) By-law (Municipal Codes 813 conservation authority regulations will be demonstrated in the Preferred Design drawings and Stormwater Article II and III, MC 608 Article VII, and MC 658). Management Report to be prepared as part of the detailed design phase. With the exception of the Township of King, all other municipalities within the BRCE study area have Tree 2.5 Policy Summary Protection By-laws which, similar to the RNFP By-law, require a permit for tree removal. Based on the Acts, Plans and policies described in Section 2, the BRCE Project must be designed and Applicability to the BRCE Project constructed in accordance with the policies listed in Table 2-1. Other policies described in Section 2 will be met to the extent possible. The Barrie rail corridor is adjacent to a number of natural features identified within the OPs of each municipality along the corridor. The BRCE Project is not subject to the Planning Act and is thus not required to comply with Table 2-1: Policy Summary OP policies or Tree Protection By-laws. However, Metrolinx’s policy is to adhere to the intent of the relevant Plan/Regulation Applicability to the BRCE Project permit/approval requirements to the greatest extent possible, and to submit applications for review and information. Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies and affected municipalities through TPAP Regulation Impacts to the natural environment must be identified and mitigated. Transportation infrastructure should not be located in Natural Core or Natural Linkage Areas implementation of the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. unless it has been demonstrated that there is a need for the project and there is no Permits will be obtained by Metrolinx for all trees that require removal that are on municipally-owned lands or reasonable alternative and impacts to natural features will be minimized to the extent possible. private property. Details of tree removals are presented in the Tree Inventory Plan and Arborist Report (provided Oak Ridges Moraine Transit projects will only be permitted if the project does not include a planned or future in Appendix B of the BRCE EPR). Conservation Plan transit or railway station in a Natural Core Area. (Section 4.1) 2.4 Conservation Authority Regulations Transportation infrastructure within Natural Linkage Areas must ensure the following to the extent possible: The PPS (2014), described in Section 2.1.1 of this Report, outlines policies for managing development within, or • ROW widths and construction areas will be kept to a minimum; and adjacent to, natural hazard-prone lands, including floodplains, wetlands, steep slopes, dynamic beaches and • The project will allow for wildlife movement. erosion-prone lands. These policies are generally enacted through the Development, Interference with Wetlands New or expanding infrastructure shall avoid KNHFs unless need has been demonstrated and and Alternations to Shorelines and Watercourses regulations, administered by conservation authorities. it has been established that there is no reasonable alternative. Greenbelt Plan Where infrastructure crosses the NHS or intrudes into a KNHF, impacts and disturbance will In the study area, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and the Lake Simcoe and Region (Section 4.2) be minimized and, where reasonable, connectivity between features will be maintained or Conservation Authority (LSRCA) administer O. Reg. 166/06 and O. Reg. 179/06, respectively. The TRCA and improved. LSRCA may grant permission for development in, or on, hazard lands within their respective jurisdictions if, in Lake Simcoe Infrastructure is permitted within KNHFs but only if the need for the project has been their opinion, the control of flooding, erosion, dynamic beaches, pollution or the conservation of land will not be Protection Plan demonstrated through an EA or other similar environmental approval and there is no affected by the development. (Policy 6.23-DP) reasonable alternative. Proposed works must avoid “serious harm to fish” as described in the Fisheries Act. Should Both conservation authorities have developed guidelines to outline how the regulations are implemented. The “serious harm to fish” be found to be unavoidable through the use of mitigation as part of the Fisheries Act TRCA implements O. Reg. 166/06 in accordance with the Living City Policies for Planning and Development in “Self-Assessment” process, DFO must be consulted through a “Request for Project Review”. the Watersheds of the TRCA (November, 2014) and the Planning and Development Procedural Manual, 2007. A project authorization may be required as a next step. No work is permitted to proceed that would result in the destruction of active nests (defined The LSRCA implements O. Reg. 179/06 in accordance with their Guidelines for the Implementation of O. Reg. as nests with eggs or young birds), or the wounding or killing of birds of species protected Migratory Birds 179/06 (Revised Draft, 2015). Each of these documents provide guidance on identifying natural hazard lands and under the Act and/or Regulations under that Act. Convention Act includes specific requirements for development within hazard lands. Removal of inactive nests may not be permitted for species that are known to reuse nests from previous years (i.e., Cliff Swallow, Barn Swallow). Applicability to the BRCE Project Requirements of various tree protection By-laws will be adhered to for private and Municipal Tree-cutting municipally-owned trees. Further details regarding impacts to trees protected under tree The Barrie rail corridor passes through regulated hazard lands under the jurisdiction of both the TRCA and and Preservation By- protection By-laws are addressed in the Tree Inventory Plan and Arborist Report which is laws LSRCA. Conservation authority boundaries are shown in Figure 2-1. As an agency of the Province of Ontario, provided in Appendix B of the BRCE EPR. Metrolinx is not subject to conservation authority regulations. However, Metrolinx policy is to adhere to the intent

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3. Methodology • MNRF: SAR records, wetland evaluations and records, ANSI evaluations and records, Significant Wildlife Habitat (SWH), aquatic data (e.g., fish sampling stations and records, watercourse thermal regimes, The overall scope of work for this study was to: recommended in-water works timing windows, SAR); and

• Identify Provincially Significant Natural Areas and Wildlife Habitats, through review of available background • TRCA and LSRCA: Natural heritage data, including SAR records, natural heritage policy areas, aquatic data information, and completion of site investigations and an evaluation of significance; (e.g., benthics, fish and fish habitat records, watercourse thermal regimes, water quality), high-level • Assess potential effects to natural features of provincial importance based on the preferred design for the Ecological Land Classification (ELC) mapping and features regulated under conservation authority BRCE Project; and regulations.

• Identify mitigation measures, net effects, monitoring activities and permitting needs based on industry Best All correspondences with regulatory agencies are presented in the Stakeholder Consultation Report, Appendix J Management Practices (BMPs)22, professional judgment, various guidance documents and the policy and of the BRCE EPR. Findings of the NHIC database search are provided in Appendix C of this Report. regulatory requirements listed in Table 2-1. 3.2 Site Investigations The applicable permits and approvals associated with natural features are described within Section 6, Permit and Site investigations were undertaken to verify the findings of the background information review and identify Approval Requirements in the BRCE EPR. additional features. Site investigations could only be carried out from within the existing rail ROW. The site investigations were carried out in order to characterize terrestrial, aquatic and human-made environments. The This section of the Report documents the methodology used to collect background information, conduct the site methodologies are described in detail in the following sections and summarized in Table 3-1. The locations of all investigations, and identify and evaluate Provincially Significant natural features. site investigation survey points are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

3.1 Background Information Review A comprehensive desktop assessment was completed to compile and review existing natural heritage information available for the BRCE study area. All lands within 120 metres of the existing Barrie rail corridor, GO Stations and proposed Bradford Layover Facility were reviewed as part of the high level desktop review in order to identify any known and previously identified natural features located within or directly adjacent to the study area. Information was reviewed from publicly available sources. In addition, requests were made to various agencies for supplemental information.

Publicly available data sources included:

• Aerial photographic imaging from the City of Toronto (2013), York Region (2014), County of Simcoe (2012), and Hatch Mott MacDonald (HMM)23 (2015);

• MNRF Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) database for significant species and designated natural features within 120 metres of the existing Barrie rail corridor;

• MNRF Land Information Ontario (LIO) database;

• NHS and Greenlands schedules of OPs for upper and lower-tier municipalities along the rail corridor;

• DFO and Conservation Ontario Aquatic SAR mapping; and

• Atlas of the Mammals of Ontario (AMO) (Dobbyn, 1994).

A variety of information was also obtained from the MNRF Aurora and Midhurst District Offices, TRCA and LSRCA including:

22 For the purposes of this Report, BMPs are defined as non-regulatory methods that have been recognized as the most 23 As of April 26, 2016, Hatch Mott MacDonald (HMM) is known as Hatch. effective and practical means of preventing or reducing potential impacts to natural features due to construction and/or operations/maintenance phase activities.

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Table 3-1: Survey Methodologies

Weather Conditions Wind Field Study Methodology Staff Involved Date(s) Time of Day Precipitation/Cloud Temperature (Beaufort Cover (°C) Wind Scale)1

Site Investigation Ecological Land Ecological Land Classification for Kevin Butt, Terrestrial Ecologist and ISA Certified Arborist, • June 8, 9, 10, 11; 0800 – 1700 N/A N/A N/A Classification Southern Ontario (Lee et. al., 1998) B.Sc. (Env)., Eco. Rest. Cert. • July 6, 7, 9, 10; to the community series level. • September 1, 2, 23, 25, 28, 29, 30; and • October 1, 2, 13, 14. Aquatic MTO/DFO/MNRF Fisheries Protocol Devin Soeting, Aquatic Ecologist, B.A., Can-CISEC June 1, 2015 0900 - 1700 Cloudy 20°C N/A Assessment - Environmental Guide for Fish and Chris Pfohl, Senior Aquatic Ecologist C.E.T., EP, Can-CISEC June 2, 2015 0900 - 1700 Clear 25°C N/A Fish Habitat (Version 3, 2013) at all watercourse crossings potentially June 3, 2015 0900 - 1700 Clear 23°C N/A containing fish. June 4, 2015 0900 - 1700 Clear 20°C N/A June 5, 2015 0900 - 1700 Overcast 24°C N/A Surveys to Support the Evaluation of Significance Amphibian Marsh Monitoring Program Devin Soeting, Aquatic Ecologist, B.A., Can-CISEC Round 1: 2000 - 0030 Clear 15°C 4 Breeding Call Participant’s Handbook for Chris Pfohl, Senior Aquatic Ecologist C.E.T., EP, Can-CISEC April 20, 2015 Monitoring Surveying Amphibians (Bird Studies Canada (BSC), 2009). April 21, 2015 2000 - 0030 Some Cloud 6°C 1 April 27, 2015 2000 - 0030 Some Cloud 7°C 3 April 28, 2015 2000 - 0030 Clear 13°C 3 April 29, 2015 2000 - 0030 Overcast 21°C 1 Round 2: 2000 - 0030 Clear 18°C 3 May 26, 2015 May 28, 2015 2000 - 0030 Some Clouds 23°C 1 Round 3 2000 - 0030 Overcast 26°C 0 June 15, 2015 June 16, 2015 2000 - 0030 Clear 21°C 3 Turtle Surveys were conducted using the Sarah Robins, Junior Terrestrial Ecologist May 8, 2016 9:02 - 12:40 None/Clear to 100% cloud 9°C - 14°C 3 - 4 Overwintering and Survey Protocol for Blanding’s cover Blanding’s Turtle Turtle in Ontario (MNRF, 2014c). May 13, 2016 8:55 - 2:02 None/60-100% cloud 13°C - 16°C 1 - 5 Surveys cover May 14, 2016 9:22 – 3:06 None/clear-10% cloud 14°C - 21°C 0 - 1 cover June 7, 2016 9:00 – 1:10 None/60% -100% cloud 15°C - 17°C 1 - 3 cover

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Weather Conditions Wind Field Study Methodology Staff Involved Date(s) Time of Day Precipitation/Cloud Temperature (Beaufort Cover (°C) Wind Scale)1 Barn Swallow Visual search of culverts and Scott Martin, Ecologist, B.Sc., H.B.O.R.24 Completed during breeding bird surveys. See below. See below. See below. See below. Culvert and bridges to identify nesting sites. See below. Bridge Searches Breeding Bird Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas Guide Scott Martin, Ecologist, B.Sc., H.B.O.R. June 6, 2015 0606 - 1337 0 11°C on arrival 1 – 3 Surveys for Participants (BSC, March, 2001). Breeding Bird Stations 1-36 23°C on departure June 7, 2015 0616 - 1322 1 10°C on arrival 0 – 3 Breeding Bird Stations 37-64 26°C on departure June 13, 2015 0628 - 1432 1 – 2 16°C on arrival 1 – 2 Breeding Bird Stations 65-100 27°C on departure June 14, 2015 0702 - 1214 2 – 5 18°C on arrival 0 – 2 Breeding Bird Stations 101-121 24°C departure June 15, 2015 0916 - 1509 2 23°C on arrival 0 – 2 Breeding Bird Stations 122-141 29°C on departure June 16, 2015 0937 - 1327 1 – 2 23°C on arrival 0 – 3 Breeding Bird Stations 142-161 26°C on departure June 17, 2015 0855 - 1332 1 18°C on arrival 1 – 3 Breeding Bird Stations 162-178 24°C on departure June 18, 2015 0911 - 1244 1 24°C on arrival 1 – 2 Breeding Bird Stations 179-193 26°C on departure June 19, 2015 0925 - 1441 1 – 2 16°C on arrival 1 - 2 Breeding Bird Stations 194-211 25°C on departure June 20, 2015 (Round #2) 0618 - 1124 0 – 1 11°C on arrival 1 – 2 Breeding Bird Stations 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 23°C on departure 29, 30, 32, 53B, 54, 55, 58, 62, 97, 99 and 116 June 21, 2015 (Round #2) 0706 - 0931 2 20°C on arrival 1 - 2 Breeding Bird Stations 128, 132, 133, 22°C on departure 135, 136, 148 and 159 Incidental flora Visual observations of animals, All field staff All site visits and fauna tracks or scat and compilation of observations a plant inventory during all site visits.

24 Avian Ecologist from Wild Canada.

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3.2.1 Vegetation Communities • Non-intensive agricultural fields: Pasture, hay and fallow fields with little regular disturbance can provide High level vegetation community mapping was obtained from both the TRCA and LSRCA. Site investigations habitat for ground nesting birds with a preference for open country habitats. Agricultural fields were observed were undertaken to verify existing mapping and augment any data gaps. Vegetation communities were from the ROW from June 6, 7, and 13 to 21, 2015. Any fields under non-intensive agricultural use were noted; characterized according to the ELC System for Southern Ontario (Lee et. al., 1998, with draft updates). Site • Culverts and Bridges: Some stone and box culverts and bridges can provide important habitat for avian investigations took place over the following dates in 2015: species such as Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica). All culverts and bridges were observed during site visits on • June 8, 9, 10, 11; June 6, 7, and 13 to 21, 2015. Culverts and bridges providing suitable habitat were identified;

• July 6, 7, 9, 10; • Barns: Old barns with open rafters can provide important habitat for Barn Swallow. No barns are expected to be disturbed or removed as a result of the BRCE Project. Therefore, potential barns were not mapped; and • September 1, 2, 23, 25, 28, 29, 30; and • Chimneys: Uncapped chimneys can provide important nesting habitat for Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica). • October 1, 2, 13, 14. Buildings on adjacent properties could not be accessed to confirm whether suitable conditions were present. The ELC mapping was carried out by a Certified Arborist and Terrestrial Through aerial photography, several potential chimney habitats were identified. Ecologist/Avian Biologist using aerial photography, topographic and soils 3.2.4 Evaluation of Feature Significance mapping. All site investigations were completed from the existing Barrie Through the site investigations, a large number of natural features were found in the study area which had the rail corridor and no entry to lands beyond the ROW occurred, including potential to be significant. The next step in the study was to undertake additional studies and apply criteria to lands adjacent to GO Stations and the site of the proposed Bradford determine each feature’s ecological function, rarity and value in order to confirm its significance. Criteria used to Layover Facility. Where communities could not be viewed from the ROW, determine significance were obtained from various policy and guidance documents listed in Section 2 of this existing mapping provided by the LSRCA and TRCA was used in Report. conjunction with aerial photography. Additional site studies and criteria were applied where feasible. Due to the site access limitations described in Due to site limitations, communities were characterized to the Ecosite25 Section 1.3, some additional site surveys required to evaluate features could not be undertaken. In these cases, level only, including the community shown in Photo 3-1. Each community features were identified as “Candidate Significant” features only. In some cases, criteria could not be fully applied was visited once. Photo 3-1: A deciduous forest and minor modifications were made. Details are provided under the evaluation of each feature type in Section 5 3.2.2 Aquatic Habitats with an understory of Canada of this Report. All watercourse crossings and culverts were observed by an Aquatic Anemone (Anemone Where natural features were identified as Candidate Significant, a commitment was made to either: Ecologist during the period between June 1 and June 5, 2015. During the Canadensis) in flower (Mile 23.94) site visits, information was collected using the Ministry of Transportation • Assume the Candidate feature was significant and assess potential effects, mitigation, net effects and (MTO)/DFO/MNRF Fisheries Protocol, Ver. 3, 2013 to characterize the monitoring as if it were Significant; or aquatic habitat including substrate, channel morphology, riparian conditions, sensitivity of the habitat and potential • Conduct additional studies prior to Project construction, once permission to enter adjacent properties have for aquatic SAR and fish presence. Site access constrained some observations; however, where sightlines been secured by Metrolinx. allowed, watercourses were assessed both upstream and downstream of the rail ROW crossings. A summary of site notes and findings is provided in Appendix D of this Report. The site surveys undertaken to confirm the significance of features are described in the following sections. 3.2.3 Cultural Features of Ecological Value 3.2.4.1 Amphibian Breeding Habitats Some human-made features have ecological value and can be important habitats for some species. The Most wetland areas identified in the study area had the potential to provide Significant Amphibian Breeding ecological value of the following human-made features was determined based on the following methodologies: Habitat. Field surveys were therefore conducted to determine the amphibian species and population levels using each potential (Candidate) habitat. Amphibian monitoring surveys were conducted throughout the existing Barrie rail corridor during the last two weeks of April, May, and June, 2015. Survey protocols were based on the Marsh

25 The ELC system is hierarchical with six classification levels (Ecozone, Ecoprovince, Ecoregion, Ecodistrict, Ecosection, Ecosite, and Ecoelement). Each level allows for a finer classification of ecosystems, with the Ecoelement level providing the most descriptive and detailed information.

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Monitoring Program Participant’s Handbook for Surveying Amphibians (BSC, 2009). A summary of site notes and Each Candidate Habitat was observed from the rail ROW or nearest publicly accessible vantage point using the findings is provided in Appendix E of this Report. methodology listed in the Survey Protocol for Blanding’s Turtle in Ontario (MNRF, 2014c). Due to site access limitations and safety precautions, no wetlands or ponds were waded into. As such, all observations were made Due to BRCE Project timing, amphibian surveys from the banks or the nearest vantage point only. A summary of site notes and findings is provided in Appendix F took place prior to completion of ELC mapping. of this Report. Thus, survey stations were located conservatively based on aerial photography and were situated in 3.2.4.3 Barn Swallow Nesting Searches all locations where wetlands or open water All culverts and bridges exhibiting potential habitat for Barn Swallow nesting (i.e., box culverts, stone culverts and features were potentially present. Initially, 225 bridges) were searched for signs of nesting. All Barn Swallow nests encountered were documented. survey points were identified, including the 3.2.4.4 Rare Flora wetland shown in Photo 3-2. After the first round During the ELC investigations, all seasonally-evident vascular plant species and relative species abundance were of surveys, several were eliminated based on lack recorded. Attention was focused on searching for any SAR or rare species with potential to be present based on of suitable habitat conditions. Survey stations the findings of the background review. Any SAR or rare species encountered within the rail ROW were mapped were selected using a combination of background with a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit. If located beyond the ROW limits, locations were approximated. information, mapping, and on-site observations. Additional details are provided in the Tree Inventory and Arborist Report presented in Appendix B of the BRCE Surveys were completed during appropriate EPR. weather conditions in order to maximize calling activity and provide the best chance of call 3.2.4.5 Avian Communities capture. Night temperatures were above 5°C for Photo 3-2: Amphibian survey station at a Candidate A large number of Candidate Significant natural features related to birds and bird habitats were identified through the April survey, above 10°C for the May survey, Significant Habitat (Mile 28.85) the site investigations. Due to the BRCE Project schedule, breeding bird surveys had to be completed prior to the and above 17°C for the June survey. completion of ELC mapping. As such, survey stations could not be located strategically based on the location of Candidate SWH. Attempts were made to locate stations in appropriate locations based on aerial photography Three call level codes are used for amphibians (Code 1, Code 2, and Code 3). Table 3-2 shows the descriptions and background data. Specifically, bird survey locations were selected based on the location of known natural for each of these codes (taken from BSC, 2009). The criteria used to confirm significance and findings of the features (i.e., woodlands, wetlands, large meadows, PSWs, ANSIs, Conservation Areas, etc.) and were selected evaluation of significance are presented in Section 5.7 of this Report. from aerial photography and background data. Surveys had to be completed during the off-peak train service in Table 3-2: Amphibian Call Level Codes order to maintain safe access within the rail ROW. Due to these timing restrictions, surveys could not follow required protocols and could not be used to confirm the significance of Candidate Habitat. Surveys were, Call Code Code Description therefore, designed to provide a general characterization of avian communities in the study area. 1 Calls not simultaneous, number of individuals can be accurately counted. 2 Some calls simultaneous, number of individuals can be reliably estimated. As such, only one survey was completed for each station, rather than the standard two. A small number of point count stations were re-visited for a second time if conditions were not ideal during the first round where potentially Full chorus, calls continuous and overlapping, number of individuals cannot be reliably 3 estimated. quality habitat was present and the area warranted a second visit under more ideal weather conditions. Breeding bird surveys were completed on June 6, 7 and 13 to 21, 2015, by an Avian Ecologist. Surveys were completed to 3.2.4.2 Turtle Overwintering Habitats, Blanding’s Turtle and Snapping Turtle Habitat generally follow the principles outlined in the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas Guide for Participants (March, 2001). In Turtles hibernate in large rivers, ponds and wetlands where there is sufficient dissolved oxygen to support them. summary, breeding bird surveys could not be conducted as a means to evaluate the significance of bird-related Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) is a Threatened turtle species with a natural range covering the study Candidate natural features. These features were all mapped as Candidate Significant features and assumed to area. Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina), listed as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007, also has a range be Significant for the purposes of the impact assessment, described in Section 6 of this Report. However, bird covering the study area. Several Candidate Habitats for general turtle overwintering, Blanding’s Turtles and surveys were useful in providing a general understanding of the avian communities in the study area and the type Snapping Turtles were identified as a result of the site investigations. Surveys to confirm the number and species of species that could be expected to be found. A summary of the site notes and findings are provided in of turtles using each Candidate Habitat were conducted along the Phase One portion of the study area from the Appendix G of this Report. City of Toronto (Mile 3.00) to the Aurora GO Station (Mile 29.90) on May 31, June 7, June 8, June 13 and June

14, 2016. A commitment is made to survey the remaining Future Phase(s) portions of the BRCE Project prior to construction.

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3.3 Methodology Limitations feature is considered to be the source area for many streams which drain the till plains on either side of it. The Limitations to the site investigations carried out within the study area are summarized below: hills of the ORM are predominately composed of sandy or gravelly materials. The northern border of the morainic area is deeply indented by swamp-floored valleys, along which many outwash terraces are found. • Property access was restricted to lands within the existing Barrie rail corridor. Features present beyond the ROW that could not be accurately identified from within the ROW limits were characterized based on a The Schomberg Clay Plains, along the northern slopes of the ORM, contain deep deposits of stratified clay and combination of air photo interpretation and secondary sources (i.e., natural heritage databases, regulatory silt. The surface under the clay in the area of the Town of Newmarket is comprised of a drumlinized till plain. The agency consultation, etc.); smaller drumlins are completely covered, but many of the larger ones escaped complete burial although the clay may occur well up the slopes of the hills. In the area along the Holland River, between the Town of Newmarket • Weekday surveys were limited to off-peak train hours to avoid GO Train movements on the existing Barrie and Holland Landing, considerable dissection has taken place, giving rise to rugged topography. rail corridor; The Simcoe Lowlands is a physiographic region that covers an area of about 2,850 km2. The lowlands that drain • Anthropogenic (i.e., human) features located outside of the ROW, such as chimneys and barns that may be to Lake Simcoe lay between 218 metres and 259 metres above sea level. These lands were historically flooded nesting habitat for avifauna, were not accessible for inspection; and by Lake Algonquin and are bordered by shorecliffs, beaches, and bouldery terraces. They are underlain by sand, • If a species of conservation concern or SAR was identified beyond the existing ROW during the breeding bird silt, and clay. surveys, these were also noted (e.g., Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella The western portion of the Peterborough Drumlin Field contains till that is somewhat sandier than the eastern part magna) in grassland fields) as supplemental information to assist with the impact assessment. These of the region. The drumlin field is notable for its eskers as well as drumlins. In the area near the Town of Bradford, observations were used to identify habitat adjacent to the ROW where these species are assumed to be deposits of clay lie between the drumlins. This “drumlin and clay flat” was formed in areas across the breeding; however, exact nesting locations are not known. physiographic region that was historically flooded by ancient lakes. South of Lake Simcoe, drumlins and drumlin Additional details regarding limitations are provided in Section 5.6 of this Report which summarizes how the uplands rise from sand plains. In the flooded areas, many of the drumlins have been wave-washed sufficiently to identification of SWH was affected. leave a bouldery surface, while in some cases the hillsides have been undercut and over steepened.

There are also eight types of physiographic landforms that are located throughout the study area. These include: 4. Findings of the Background Information Review and Site Investigations Bevelled Till Plains, Sand Plains, Till Plains-Drumlinized, Kame Moraines, Till Moraines, Clay Plains, Peat and A description of the characteristics found within the BRCE Project study area is documented below. It is noted Muck, as well as beaches and shore cliff structures (Chapman and Putnam, 1984). that this description is based on the background information review and site investigations described above. 4.1 Landform and Physiography Significant landforms and physiographic regions are presented in Figure 4-1. The Iroquois Plain is the lowland region bordering Lake Ontario. This region is characteristically flat and formed by lacustrine deposits laid down by the inundation of Lake Iroquois, the body of water that existed during the late Pleistocene Era. The City of Toronto is located within this region, which spans a distance of 300 km from the Niagara Escarpment to the Trent River. The old shorelines of Lake Iroquois include cliffs, bars, beaches, and boulder pavements.

The South Slope is found along the southern slope of the ORM with an average width of 9 to 11 km and, as with the Iroquois Plain, reaches from the Niagara Escarpment to the Trent River. This area is often intertwined with the Iroquois and Peel Plains. The South Slope contains a variety of soils, but is often considered to be excellent for agricultural uses.

The Peel Plain is approximately 775 km2 in size and lies between Halton and York Region. The plain is considered level to gently undulating, with clay soils. The area slopes gently toward Lake Ontario and is fairly uniform with the exception of the deep cut valleys created by Bronte, Oakville, and Etobicoke Creeks and the Credit, Humber, Don, and Rouge River systems.

The ORM extends from the Niagara Escarpment to the Trent River, forming the height of land dividing the streams of the Lake Ontario drainage basins from those flowing into Georgian Bay and the Trent River. This landform

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Figure 4-1: Physiographic Regions

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4.2 Soil and Bedrock Geology The majority of the lands within the existing rail ROW limits are characterized by meadow, young to mid-aged Similar to its physiography, the quaternary geology of the study area is also variable throughout the existing Barrie hedgerows and shrub/tree thicket with little to no mature tree cover due to routine vegetation management rail corridor. The soil conditions of these various geologic features are summarized in Table 4-1. practices (i.e., brush clearing and spraying of herbicide). Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis) and Canada Goldenrod Table 4-1: Quaternary Geology of the Study Area (Ontario Geological Survey Map 2566) (Solidago canadensis) are the predominant ground layer species throughout the vegetation communities within the existing ROW limits, with common early successional grasses and forbs, such as the meadow community Location Along the Barrie Rail Quaternary Geology Soil Conditions shown in Photo 4-1. Naturally occurring hedgerows are dominated by early successional species of trees: Corridor Manitoba Maple (Acer negundo) and White Elm (Ulmus americana). The ELC communities for the study area are Coarse-textured Sand, gravel, minor silt and clay; Southern extent of study area to York, delineated in Drawing NER-01, provided in Appendix A.1 of this Report. glaciolacustrine deposits Foreshore and basinal deposits. Holland Landing to Gilford, and Barrie In most cases the existing Barrie rail corridor slopes towards or away from adjacent lands, as a result of grade Stone-poor, sandy silt to silty sand- Till York to King City textured till on Paleozoic terrain. cutting or filling to create a level rail corridor. As a result, the toe or top of slope at the existing property limit is the defining limit between the existing Barrie rail corridor and adjacent land uses. Some of the polygons identified in Clay, silt, sand, gravel, may contain Modern alluvial deposits Eastern portion of King City organic remains. this study to delineate vegetation communities extend more than a mile along the existing rail ROW limits if the composition remained generally similar (e.g., cultural meadow). Other vegetation community polygons are Clay to silt-textured till (derived from East of King City; intermittently north of Till glaciolacustrine deposits or shale). Lefroy to east side of Barrie relatively smaller if the community is distinct from adjacent vegetation communities within the existing ROW limits. Silt and clay, minor sand and gravel. Fine-textured Open-grown trees, hedgerows and wooded areas with relatively older trees are found in locations where the Interbedded silt and clay and gritty, Aurora and Newmarket glaciolacustrine deposits existing rail ROW extends beyond the average width of approximately 20 metres. Additional information on trees pebbly flow till and rainout deposits. within the vegetation communities found within the existing ROW limits, in the context of natural features, is Glaciofluvial deposits River deposits and delta topset facies. South of Lefroy provided under separate cover in the Tree Inventory Plan and Arborist Report, presented in Appendix B of the Gravel and sand, minor till; includes Ice-contact stratified BRCE EPR. esker, kame, end moraine, ice-marginal Southeast of Barrie deposits delta and subaqueous fan deposits. Lands within 120 metres of the existing Barrie rail corridor (i.e., adjacent lands) vary greatly. Lands beyond the Older alluvial and Clay, silt, sand, gravel, and may contain Intermittently from north of Lefroy to existing ROW limits south of Keele Street in the City of Vaughan (Mile 19.60) are predominantly comprised of glaciolacustrine deposits organic remains. southeast of Barrie residential, industrial, institutional and commercial uses. Natural and naturalized features through this portion of The Paleozoic Geology of Southern Ontario (Map 2254) was reviewed to characterize the bedrock within the the corridor include parks, marshes and meadows dominated by ornamental trees, early successional study area. The bedrock encompassing the study area includes four distinct geologic Formations. The Georgian groundcovers and manicured turf. The urban centres north of Teston Road include the Township of King, the Bay Formation is the southernmost unit and encompasses the section of the existing Barrie rail corridor that Towns of Aurora, Newmarket, and Innisfil and the City of Barrie, which have a similar vegetation community extends from the City of Toronto, north to the Hamlet of Hope. This Formation is characterized by grey shale, with composition. Lands north of Keele Street and outside of urban centres are dominated by crop (intensive) interbedded limestone and siltstone, and gradually overlies the Whitby Formation. agriculture, with the following natural and naturalized communities:

The Whitby Formation is located north of the Georgian Bay Formation and is also characterized primarily by grey • Pasture/cultural meadow (See Photo 4-1); shale, with minor limestone. The Whitby Formation gradually overlies the Lindsay Formation, which is part of the • Cultural tree/shrub thicket; Simcoe Group and is characterized by limestone with interbeds of shale. The northernmost geologic unit within the study area is the Verulam Formation (also part of the Simcoe Group). Similar to the Lindsay Formation, the • Deciduous, coniferous and mixed forest; Verulam Formation is also primarily comprised of limestone, with interbeds of shale. • Conifer plantation;

4.3 Vegetation • Coniferous, deciduous and mixed swamp; Vegetation communities in Ontario have been classified in a hierarchical framework. Ecoregions are a relatively high level (coarse resolution) of the classification system. • Open water (ponds, and large watercourses); and

The BRCE Project spans the boundary between Ecoregions 6E and 7E. The City of Toronto and the southern • Marsh. half of the City of Vaughan fall within Ecoregion 7E, known as the Lake Erie-Ontario (Carolinian Forest) Site Region, while the remainder of the corridor falls within Ecoregion 6E, known as the Lake Simcoe-Rideau Site Region, as shown in Figure 4-2.

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The number of vegetation units in each municipality is summarized in Table 4-2. All vegetation communities are shown in Drawing NER-01, provided in Appendix A.1 of this Report.

Cultural communities comprise the majority of the vegetation units present within the study area. In total, there are:

• 202 woodlands (including wooded wetlands and cultural plantations);

• 174 wetlands (including wooded and non- wooded wetlands); • 38 open water communities (i.e., open water Photo 4-1: Cultural meadow adjacent to the ponds, large riverine environments); and corridor (Mile 32.19)

• 335 cultural communities.

As noted in Table 4-2, the greatest number of natural and non-cultural communities was found within the Town of Innisfil (87). Conversely, the City of Toronto and City of Barrie contain the fewest, with just four and 16, respectively.

Each vegetation community (ELC unit) was grouped into contiguous (i.e., adjoining) natural features. For example, two different but contiguous wetland types were grouped to form a single wetland complex and were given a single wetland identifier (i.e., WE-1, WE-2, etc.). Woodlands were also grouped into a contiguous woodlands unit and were given woodland identifiers (i.e., W-1, W-2, etc.). It is noted that some treed swamps were considered both a woodland and wetland and were given two different identifiers. Open country communities, including cultural meadows, cultural woodlands, cultural savannahs, and cultural thickets were given an open country identifier (i.e., OC-1, OC-2, etc.). As previously noted, non-intensive agricultural lands can support some significant habitat, and these fields were also given identifiers (i.e., Non-intensive Agricultural Lands NAG-1, NAG-2, etc.).

The vegetation communities assigned to each complex and identifier are summarized in Table 4-3. These complexes were used to further characterize natural features. For example, the size of each contiguous woodland was calculated along with the amount of any interior habitat present. This information was used to support the evaluation of significance, summarized in Section 5. All natural feature complexes are shown on Drawings NER- 01 and NER-02, found in Appendices A.1 and A.2, respectively.

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Figure 4-2: Ecoregions of Southern Ontario

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Table 4-2: Summary of Vegetation Communities

Number of Vegetation Communities Present within the Study Area1

Woodlands Wooded Wetlands Non-wooded Wetlands Open Water Cultural Communities

Municipality

–

Forests Forests

Plantations Plantations

)

Intensive Intensive

Deciduous Forests Forests Deciduous (FOD Forests Mixed (FOM) Coniferous (FOC) Swamp Deciduous (SWD) Swamp Mixed (SWM) Swamp Coniferous (SWC) Swamp Thicket (SWT) Marsh Shallow (MAS) Marsh Meadow (MAM) Shallow Submerged (SAS) Aquatic Shallow Mixed (SAM) Aquatic (OAO) Aquatic Open Aquatic Open (OAO Riverine Cultural (CUP) Woodland Cultural (CUW) Savannahs Cultural (CUS) Thicket Cultural (CUT) Meadows Cultural (CUM) Non Fields Agricultural (NAG) City of Toronto 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 8 0 1 7 0 City of Vaughan 7 2 1 0.5 0.5 0 0 3.5 4 0 0 4 0 6 2 0 2 20 1 Township of King 11 1 0 8.5 2.5 0 1 8.5 8 1 0 4 1 6 17 0 8 7.5 4 Town of Aurora 5.5 5 1 1.5 0 1 0 3 3 0 0 3 0.5 7 8.5 0 2.5 11.5 0 Town of Newmarket 6.5 0 0 2.5 0 0 0 6 7 0 0 0 7 2 14.5 0 8 8 0 Town of East Gwillimbury 6 2 1 6 1 0 4 5 4 0 0 1 2.5 2 8 0 8.5 11 1 Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury 5 6 7 4 2.5 0 4 5 6 0 1 6 1 6 11 0 17 16 3 Town of Innisfil 5 10 4 30 5.5 3 17 7 1 2 0 3 0 5 28 0 17 13 9 City of Barrie 4 3 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 4 0 1 11 0 6 10 0 TOTAL 52 29 16 53 13 4 27 39 34 3 1 26 12 35 108 0 70 104 18 1 Vegetation communities located partially in two municipalities were counted as one half for each respective municipality. 2 Vegetation community short forms refer to identification codes provided in the Ecological Land Classification System for Southern Ontario (Lee, et. al., 1998) and are shown on Drawing NER-01, found in Appendix A.1 of this Report.

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Table 4-3: Vegetation Community Complexes nature, rail side drainage ditches typically contain and convey water during certain times of the year, namely the spring freshet26 and precipitation events. It is possible that some of these culverts could potentially provide Natural Identifier Vegetation Community Included in each Complex Type Features/Complexes linkages beneath the rail line for some species of wildlife, such as small to mid-sized mammals, as well as reptiles and amphibians. Deciduous Forest (FOD), Mixed Forest (FOD), Coniferous Forest (FOD), Woodlands W Deciduous Swamp (SWD), Mixed Swamp (SWM), Coniferous Swamp (SWC), Certain species of birds will nest inside culverts and under bridge structures, such as Barn Swallow (provincially Cultural Plantation (CUP). Threatened) and other bird species that are not listed under the ESA, 2007, such as Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis Deciduous Swamp (SWD), Mixed Swamp (SWM), Coniferous Swamp (SWC), phoebe), Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota), and Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula). Nests are often Thicket Swamp (SWT), Shallow Marsh (SAM), Meadow Marsh (MAM), Wetlands WE adhered to vertical or horizontal surfaces under these human-made structures. Submerged Shallow Aquatic (SAS), Mixed Shallow Aquatic (SAM), Open Aquatic (OAO). All suitable culverts (i.e., concrete box) and bridge structures within the study area were surveyed during the Cultural Meadow (CUM), Cultural Thicket (CUT), Cultural Savannah (CUS), Open Country OC breeding bird surveys conducted in 2015 (See Section 4.6.3 below). The majority of culverts were too small and/or Cultural Woodland (CUW). too low to the ground to be suitable for Barn Swallow which requires some space at the entrance to freely enter Non-intensive NAG Pasture lands, mature hay fields, fallow fields. and exit these structures. Many of the structures were also covered with grass or other vegetation that either Agricultural Lands partially or fully obstructed the culvert entrance.

4.4 Agricultural Environments In addition to bridges, culverts and barns, flat gravel rooftops and chimneys also provide potential habitat and Agricultural lands were classified into two categories for this study, and included: ecological value for provincially significant species; namely, Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor) (listed as a Species of Concern provincially) and Chimney Swift (Provincially Threatened). In urban areas, large flat, gravelled • Intensive: annual crops (e.g., corn, soy); and roofs with walls or other structures on them are known to be used as breeding habitat for Common Nighthawk. • Non-intensive: pasture, or hay field. To a lesser extent, Common Nighthawk has also been known to nest in gravel beds associated with railway ROWs (Cadman, M.D. et. al., 2007). In urban areas, Chimney Swift are known to nest and roost in uncapped Intensive agricultural lands are generally not regarded to support wildlife habitat due to their dominance by a chimneys. single plant species and agricultural practices (e.g., tilling, and application of fertilizers and pesticides). Non- intensive agricultural lands are typically dominated by non-native cool season grasses but can still contribute to 4.6 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat components of wildlife life cycles (e.g., forage for grassland birds or milkweed sources for Monarch Butterfly). Due to the length and large extent of the study area, wildlife habitat along the corridor varies with the context of Within the study area, 17 non-intensive agricultural fields were identified with the potential to provide some wildlife the landscape. The majority of land within the existing rail ROW is very disturbed and is subject to routine habitat function. vegetation management practices by Metrolinx for the safe operation of the Barrie rail corridor. The rail corridor 4.5 Cultural Features of Ecological Value itself is a linear, human-made feature that has been built to intersect with existing natural features on the landscape. The corridor generally slopes toward or away from adjacent lands, as a result of grade cutting or filling The study area features a broad mosaic of urban, industrial and agricultural lands (i.e., row crops and pasture), to create a level corridor. The ROW limits of transportation corridors are often distinct habitat types where cultural meadow, thickets, hedgerows, plantations, woodlands, and wetlands which occupy the neighbouring topography, soil conditions, microclimate, and vegetation are modified in ways that can make the ROW quite lands from the City of Toronto north to the City of Barrie. Some features associated with urban and rural different from the surrounding environment. Road/rail-side soil and fill are typically compact and relatively developments found within the study area contribute ecological value to certain wildlife species and their habitat. impermeable, and sometimes the sides of the corridor are armored with rock fill (Andrews, et al., 2015). The nature of a linear development like a rail corridor can act as a barrier or filter and inhibit wildlife movement. However, some of the existing infrastructure related to a rail corridor has also been noted to somewhat offset The type of habitat mentioned above typically attracts wildlife that prefer to forage or move through disturbed, these restrictions. grassy, open areas (Andrews, et. al, 2015) such as Raccoon (Procyon lotor), Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis), Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater), and House Sparrow (Passer domesticus). Species such as turtles and Throughout the study area, the most ubiquitous cultural feature that may contribute and be of ecological value for other reptiles are attracted to the raised rail bed for thermoregulation or nesting. Woodland edge species, such wildlife are the existing drainage culverts and bridges that span the watercourses within the Barrie rail corridor. as some species of birds, will forage within the corridor adjacent to their nesting habitat. Where conditions allow, drainage culverts can provide habitat connectivity for both aquatic species and terrestrial wildlife, if water levels fluctuate throughout the year. Based on ongoing Stormwater Management investigations, Given the length of the existing Barrie rail corridor, general wildlife habitat beyond the rail ROW limits consists of the vast majority of existing culverts are identified as conveying flows for rail side drainage ditches. Due to their a broad mosaic of urban, industrial and agricultural lands (i.e., row crops and pasture), cultural meadow, thickets,

26 The term freshet is most commonly used to describe high water flows during the spring thaw resulting from snow and ice melt.

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hedgerows, plantations, woodlands, and wetlands which occupy the neighbouring lands from the City of Toronto • American Toad (Bufo americanus); north to the City of Barrie. Natural features and watercourses are also adjacent to, or intersect with, the existing • Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) Barrie rail corridor. These features provide a variety of habitat types for a diversity of species, including habitat (See Photo 4-2); for SAR (i.e., avifauna, mammals, reptiles and amphibians). The following section provides a general characterization of existing conditions for wildlife habitat within the study area and adjacent lands. • Gray Treefrog (Hyla versicolor);

4.6.1 Mammals • Green Frog (Rana clamitans); According to the Atlas of Mammals of Ontario (Dobbyn, 1994), a variety of common small and mid-sized mammals • Northern Leopard Frog (Rana pipiens); are expected to be present within the study area based on their known range within the province and habitat preferences. Common species are those that have provincial conservation status ranks of S5 (secure) or S4 • Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer); (apparently secure). These include species such as Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana), Eastern Cottontail • Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica); and (Sylvilagus floridanus), Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus), Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), Beaver (Castor canadensis), Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum), • Western Chorus Frog (Pseudacris Coyote (Canis latrans), Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Raccoon, Marten (Martes americana), Striped Skunk, triseriata). Woodchuck (Marmota monax), Weasels (Mustela spp.), and a variety of Shrews (i.e., Sorex spp.), Mice (i.e., Frogs were heard calling over a variety of Peromyscus spp.), Voles (i.e., Myodes spp., Microtus spp.) and Moles (i.e., Scalopus aquaticus, Parascalops habitat, including open wetlands, wooded Photo 4-2: Eastern Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta) breweri, Condylura cristata). wetlands, and agricultural fields. In certain (Mile 17.45) The majority of the species listed above are habitat generalists that utilize a variety of woodland, cultural meadow instances, the presence of the elevated rail bed and wetland habitats. Exceptions include Marten, Beaver and Muskrat. Marten typically inhabit mature coniferous created early seasonal habitat for breeding frogs. They provided a drainage barrier, creating seasonal ponding and mixed forest communities. Beaver and Muskrat are mainly aquatic but utilize adjacent upland habitats. No and pooling of surface runoff, and in certain federally and/or provincially significant mammals are known to inhabit the area with the exception of Little Brown cases aided in the creation of wetland habitat Myotis (Myotis lucifugus), Northern Myotis (Myotis septentrionalis) and Tri-colored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus). (See Photo 4-3). At several of these locations, Each are listed as “endangered” and protected under the ESA, 2007. frog species were heard calling directly adjacent to the rail bed in areas identified as intensive Several incidental wildlife observations were documented during the 2015 site investigations, including: Eastern agriculture (as per the ELC system). Chipmunk, Red Squirrel, Grey Squirrel, Red Fox, Eastern Cottontail, Muskrat, Woodchuck, Porcupine, Raccoon and Striped Skunk. None of these species are listed as federally and/or provincially significant and are listed as With the exception of Western Chorus Frog, all S5 (secure) in Southern Ontario. encountered species are ranked as S5 (secure) and are considered secure, common, and White-tailed Deer have been confirmed in the study area through incidental observations during the 2015 site widespread across the province. The Western investigations, and from secondary sources. White-tailed Deer utilize a variety of habitats that are present within Chorus Frog is currently listed as “Not at Risk” the study area during the summer season including forest edges, open woodlands, old fields, and agricultural under the ESA, 2007. However, while the fields. Dense forest stands and agricultural fields and/or mast producing tree stands are typically used in winter Carolinian population (i.e., south and west of as cover and as staging areas, respectively (MNRF, 2014b). Toronto) is listed federally as “Not at Risk” under 4.6.2 Amphibians and Reptiles the SARA, the Great Lakes/St. Lawrence - Photo 4-3: Wetland providing Candidate Significant According to the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (Ontario Nature, 2016), there are a wide variety of reptiles Canadian Shield population, east and north of Habitat for a variety of amphibians and reptiles (Mile and amphibians which inhabit the study area. Through incidental sightings and species-specific surveys Toronto (includes the BRCE Project study area) 28.84) conducted as part of the evaluation of significance (discussed in greater detail in Section 5 of this Report), the is listed on Schedule 1 under SARA, and is following species were observed (heard calling and/or visually observed) within the study area: designated as “Threatened”. Further details related to the Western Chorus Frog, its population status and protection, is provided in Section 5 of this Report.

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One turtle species, Snapping Turtle was documented in the study area as an incidental observation during the considered a threat under source protection. As such, the upgrades to the existing Barrie rail corridor are not site investigations. No snake or salamander species were directly observed. Snapping Turtle is listed as Special anticipated to affect groundwater quality in the Well 3 and Well 4 capture zones. No other municipal supply well Concern under the ESA, 2007. Additional details are provided in Section 5 of this Report. capture zones in the TRSPA were identified as being located within proximity of the BRCE Project study area.

4.6.3 Avifauna Map 3.4 of the above mentioned report identifies a very large zone across the TRSPA, and the Lake Simcoe and A wide variety of bird species are known to inhabit the study area. A total of 86 bird species were observed in the Couchiching – Black River Source Protection Area (encompasses the majority of the study area), as an area that study area during the 2015 site investigations. A complete list of species observed, along with the highest is a Future Significant Groundwater Quantity Threat Area. This large zone is classified as a WHPA-Q1, which recorded breeding evidence, is provided in Appendix G of this Report. refers to the area where activities which take water without returning it to the same source would be considered to be water quantity threats to municipal supplies. This area is described as being at a Moderate Risk Level for Two species were observed in the study area during the breeding bird surveys but no breeding evidence was water quantity; including water taking and recharge reduction. However, based on the nature of the proposed recorded: Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) and Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura). Both of these species are works, this is not likely considered to be an issue, and no effects are anticipated. Examples of such water taking commonly observed flying over urban and agricultural landscapes in Southern Ontario. Eight of the species activities include municipal and private wells, as well as industrial uses, such as agriculture irrigation and observed were listed as either provincially and/or federally significant (i.e., Endangered, Threatened or Special aggregate extraction below the water table which requires pumping operations. Recharge reduction refers to the Concern), including: potential impairment of the long-term viability of a water system. Typical activities of recharge reduction include • Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia); existing and planned land use developments (i.e., residential subdivisions, undifferentiated suburban lands, and employment areas). Conversions of land to impervious surfaces, such as paved parking lots and roads, also • Barn Swallow; restrict aquifer recharge (CTC Source Water Protection Plan, 2015). • Bobolink; Part 1 of the January, 2015 Approved Assessment Report for the Lake Simcoe and Couchiching – Black River • Chimney Swift; Source Protection Area (South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe Source Protection Region, 2015) was reviewed for lands within the LSRCA watershed. In general, much of the BRCE Project study area within this watershed • Eastern Meadowlark; crosses lands that primarily require groundwater to service both private and municipal supplies. • Eastern Wood-Peewee (Contopus virens); It is also noted that York Region is in the process of bringing a new municipal supply well online in the near future • Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum); and in the Green Lane/Second Concession area in the Town of East Gwillimbury. This will introduce a new WHPA in the vicinity of the Green Lane GO Station and the Barrie rail corridor. The delineation of the WHPA and associated • Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina). vulnerability scoring has not been completed yet, however, the vulnerable areas may extend to the rail corridor. Additional details are provided in Section 5 of this Report. Table 4-4 characterizes the aquifer vulnerability associated with municipal supply wells whose respective WHPAs are located within proximity to the existing Barrie rail corridor. As noted therein, the overall vulnerability of most 4.7 Groundwater municipal supply wells is considered to be low. Town of Aurora Wells PW1-PW4, PW5, and City of Barrie Well Source Water Protection Plans and Assessment Reports were reviewed to characterize the groundwater regime 12 are considered to be moderately vulnerable. The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury Church Wells 1 and 2 across the study area. The Approved Source Water Protection Plan for the Credit Valley, Toronto and Region (which are physically located within the Township of King, in York Region, to the east of the community of and Central Lake Ontario (CTC) Source Water Protection Area (CTC Source Water Protection Plan, 2015) Bradford) are in close proximity (35 metres) to the Barrie rail corridor, and are considered to be within a highly provided relevant information for the study area within the TRCA’s jurisdiction, while Part 1 (Lake Simcoe vulnerable area (Vulnerability score of 10). Watershed) of the January, 2015 Approved Assessment Report: Lake Simcoe and Couchiching – Black River Source Protection Area (South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe Source Protection Region, 2015), provided relevant information for the study area within the LSRCA’s jurisdiction.

The aforementioned CTC Source Water Protection Plan describes the Toronto Region Source Protection Area (TRSPA) as containing two municipal wells (Well 3 and Well 4) within the Township of King, whose Wellhead Protection Area (WHPA) is located within proximity to the existing Barrie rail corridor. The municipal wells are located approximately 35 metres apart (Well 3 and Well 4), and are approximately one km west of the nearest segment of the existing Barrie rail corridor. According to the CTC Source Water Protection Plan (2015) Map 2.19, the study area is outside of the WHPA-C zone (i.e., representing the five-year time of travel for groundwater flow to the well), which also represents the limit to the area where Dense Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids (DNAPLs) are

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Table 4-4: Characterization of Aquifer Vulnerability 4.8.2 Water Quality Water quality is a function of natural processes Aquifer Vulnerability Score WHPA Zones and human actions. As mentioned previously, Well Distance to Location Well I.D. crossed by the major subwatersheds within the study area Existing ROW ROW Pathogens Chemicals DNAPLs contain numerous watercourses that flow into major rivers and water bodies (e.g., Lake Aurora PW1-PW4 730 m C-D N/A 6 Yes Ontario and Lake Simcoe), including the Aurora PW5 460 m B-D 6 6 Yes watercourses listed in Table 4-5. Water quality Newmarket PW13, PW16 970 m C-D N/A N/A Yes in each of the watercourses crossing the study area is typically dependent on surrounding Newmarket PW1, PW2 1.8 km D N/A N/A N/A land uses. In general, headwaters surrounded Newmarket PW15 1.75 km D N/A N/A N/A by agriculture with limited riparian setbacks will Holland Well 1 600 m C-D N/A N/A Yes result in degraded water quality; this, however, Landing could improve downstream if efforts to Bradford Church Well 1, maintain setbacks are applied. Headwaters West 35 m A-D 10 10 Yes Well 2 that have been protected usually result in high Gwillimbury water quality, if they are not affected by local Stroud Wells 1, 2, 3 420 m D N/A N/A Yes groundwater pollution. A well-buffered Photo 4-4: Vegetated channel with robust riparian Barrie Well 12 375 m B-D 6 6 Yes watercourse is shown in Photo 4-4. A select vegetation and treed canopy (Mile 56.47) Note: number of watercourses are comprised of N/A means not available unless otherwise specified mainly stormwater and flow within urbanized areas, resulting in poor water quality. Each major subwatershed has numerous tributaries that vary in water quality based on their existing setting. A general synopsis of the water • WHPA – A zone refers to location within 100 metres of subject well. Immediately vulnerable to activities involving quality is presented below, from south to north along the existing Barrie rail corridor, for all major subwatershed pathogens, chemicals, and DNAPLs; crossings listed in Table 4-5. • WHPA – B zone refers to two-year time of travel. Vulnerable to activities involving pathogens, chemicals, and DNAPLs; • WHPA – C zone refers to five-year time of travel, with the exception of Bradford West Gwillimbury, where it refers to 10- Table 4-5: Major Subwatersheds in the Study Area year time of travel. Vulnerable to activities involving DNAPLs; Major Watershed or Subwatershed Applicable Conservation Authority • WHPA – D zone refers to 25-year time of travel. Vulnerability is considered low to all three potential threats; Upper West Don River TRCA • Vulnerability scores range from 2 (low) to 10 (high); and Vulnerability is not considered for DNAPL threats. East Humber River TRCA 4.8 Surface Water East Holland River LSRCA 4.8.1 Hydrology West Holland River LSRCA The study area spans across the regulated area of both the TRCA in the south and LSRCA in the north, and Innisfil Creeks LSRCA crosses eight major watersheds or subwatersheds as listed in Table 4-5. Hydrologically the major watercourses Hewitt’s Creek LSRCA located within the TRCA regulated lands generally flow south towards Lake Ontario, while the major watercourses Lovers Creek LSRCA within the LSRCA regulated lands generally flow from south to north, into Lake Simcoe. The various watersheds Barrie Creeks LSRCA and subwatersheds which cross the Barrie rail corridor are illustrated in Figure 4-3. The corresponding watercourses which are crossed by the existing Barrie rail corridor are described in Appendix D of this Report. The major watercourses crossing the existing Barrie rail corridor from the south to north are summarized in Section 4.8.3 and Table 4-6. However, there are several smaller watercourses which flow into these larger watercourses within each jurisdiction. In total, 46 watercourses were studied as part of this assessment. A list of these watercourses is found in Appendix D.

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Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Subwatersheds

Upper West Don River

Overall, water quality in the Upper West Don River subwatershed is poor according to the Don River Watershed Plan, Aquatic System - Report on Current Conditions (TRCA, 2009). The water quality is generally impaired by increased suspended solids, and concentrations of iron, zinc, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). This watercourse is located in an urbanized/developed area which is typically influenced by stormwater and runoff, and thus decreasing water quality and increasing contaminant concentrations. Watercourses that cross through the existing Barrie rail corridor in the Upper West Don River subwatershed have all been identified as having a warm water thermal regime. Locations of watercourse crossings of tributaries within the Upper West Don River subwatershed are on Sheets 15, 26, 28, 31, 33, 39, 41, and 42 of Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

East Humber River

Overall water quality in the Humber River is generally good according to the Humber River Fisheries Management Plan (TRCA, 2005). In general, the best water quality in the Humber River Watershed is found in less developed portions of the East Humber River subwatershed, where water quality is high enough to support populations of Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). However, suspended solids, bacteria, and nutrients are the primary causes of water quality impairment in these areas.

Water quality problems are most severe shortly after a rainfall when pollutants that have collected in fields or paved areas are flushed into nearby watercourses (TRCA, 2005). Although water quality impairments exist, aquatic life is present and in some cases, considered high quality within the East Humber River subwatershed. Locations of watercourse crossings of tributaries within the East Humber River subwatershed are shown on Sheets 46, 49, 51, and 52 of Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

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Figure 4-3: Watersheds and Subwatersheds

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Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Subwatersheds

East Holland River

The East Holland River subwatershed contains several major creek systems that cross through the study area. According to the East Holland River Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2010a), Tannery Creek is a heavily impacted watercourse within the East Holland River subwatershed. Phosphorus has been identified as a parameter that has been consistently above the Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO) (though displaying a decreasing trend), while chloride has been increasing in concentration since the early 1990s. Phosphorus loading is a concern in this subwatershed, with an average loading of 12.9 tonnes per year (14.1% of total phosphorus loads to Lake Simcoe based on data from 2010).

The typical causes of phosphorus loading is due to heavily urbanized or highly agricultural land uses, combined with high flow volumes (i.e., could include runoff). As many of the watercourses that cross through the study area, including Tannery Creek and unnamed tributaries, flow into the East Holland River they contribute to the water quality (both positively and negatively), and could potentially contain high phosphorus and chloride concentrations. Two unnamed tributaries are shown in Photo 4-5 and Photo 4-6. Continued monitoring through the Provincial Water Quality Monitoring Network (PWQMN) and LSPP will ensure the tracking of water quality trends, assessment of rehabilitation efforts, and documentation of environmental conditions within the subwatershed. Locations of watercourse crossings of tributaries within the East Holland River subwatershed are shown on Sheets 60, 66, and 67-81 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

West Holland River

The West Holland River subwatershed is monitored as part of the PWQMN, and contains two water quality Photo 4-5: Tributary of the East Holland River with Photo 4-6: Pair of culverts feeding a rocky monitoring stations. According to the West Holland River Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2010b), phosphorus was a perched Corrugated Steel Pipe (CSP) culvert stream. Signs of erosion/undercutting along bank the main parameter affecting water quality in the West Holland River between 2002 and 2008, and contributed (Mile 35.31) (Mile 37.34) 13.3% of total phosphorus loads to Lake Simcoe, based on data from 2010. Similar to the East Holland River subwatershed, chloride is also increasing, though it remained below the respective standard between 2002 and Innisfil Creeks Subwatershed 2008. The 2007 to 2009 data described in the Plan also indicated that, along with the East Holland River and The Innisfil Creeks subwatershed consists of a relatively high number of streams that generally flow from west to Pefferlaw River subwatersheds, the West Holland River subwatershed contributed the highest annual total east, and discharge directly to Lake Simcoe. The land use is primarily characterized by natural areas and phosphorus loads from all sources, on average. agricultural lands, with a relatively small amount of urbanized areas. Parameters of concern, similar to the other Though the data in the West Holland River Subwatershed Plan was derived from two stations (West Holland subwatersheds, are phosphorus, chloride, nitrate, Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and metals. According to the River in Bradford, and Schomberg, respectively), it is likely that the connected tributaries contribute to the elevated Innisfil Creeks Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012a), the Innisfil Creeks subwatershed contributed approximately concentrations observed in the West Holland River and Cook’s Bay. High phosphorus concentrations are 6.1% of total phosphorus loadings to Lake Simcoe, based on data from 2010. expected, as the lands within this subwatershed are comprised of dense farmland and some urban areas. The Innisfil Creeks Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012a) characterizes most of the creeks as having a cool to Locations of watercourse crossings of tributaries within the West Holland River subwatershed are shown on warm water thermal regime, though cold water sections do exist in some of the branches. Limited data was Sheets 86, 89-90, 93, and 98-99 of Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. available on water quality for the subject watercourses within this subwatershed. Locations of watercourse crossings of tributaries within the Innisfil Creeks subwatershed are shown on Sheets 101, 104, 106, 107-108, 110, 113, and 114-116 of Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

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Hewitt’s Creek Subwatershed Whiskey Creek is the only creek in this subwatershed that crosses the existing Barrie rail corridor, discharging directly into Lake Simcoe. The rail ROW is located toward the lower end of the Whiskey Creek system, near its The Hewitt’s Creek subwatershed primarily consists of agricultural land uses (>50%), along with natural and urban outfall to Lake Simcoe and is identified as Good, based on the IBI in the area of the watercourse crossing (LSRCA, lands that occupy approximately 20% of the land within the subwatershed. It is the smallest subwatershed within 2012b). Locations of watercourse crossings of tributaries within the Barrie Creeks subwatershed are shown on the LSRCA’s jurisdiction (17.5 km2). According to the Barrie Creeks, Lovers Creek, and Hewitt’s Creek Sheets 131-132 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012b), water quality in the Hewitt’s Creek subwatershed is monitored under the LSPP near the discharge of Hewitt’s Creek to Kempenfelt Bay (Lake Simcoe). Based on monitoring results from 4.8.3 Aquatic Conditions 2008 to 2010, phosphorus appears to be the parameter that is of most concern, with 45% of the samples being The aquatic environment associated with the study area is comprised of many types of watercourses, and a above the PWQO Guideline. The Hewitt’s Creek subwatershed contributes 0.7% of phosphorus loads to Lake limited number of small waterbodies. Watercourses range from seasonal and intermittent drainage features to Simcoe, based on data from 2010 (LSRCA, 2012b). large rivers. Waterbodies identified along the existing ROW were primarily wetlands and stormwater-related features, with some connectivity to adjacent watercourses. No lakes were observed along the Barrie rail corridor. Fish communities within sections of Hewitt’s Creek indicate that the creek is predominantly cool and contains A total of 46 drainage and watercourse crossings were identified based on the limits of the study area. both cold and warm water species. The Barrie Creeks, Lovers Creek, and Hewitt’s Creek Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012b) characterizes Hewitt’s Creek and its branches as ranging from Good to Poor in quality based on Of these 46 crossings, 14 major watercourses were identified as traversing the rail ROW within the study area, the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI). Locations of watercourse crossings of tributaries within the Hewitt’s Creek some at several locations. These watercourses are within either the TRCA or LSRCA jurisdictions, both of which subwatershed are shown on Sheets 121-123 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. are responsible for the management of their respective watersheds. Table 4-6 outlines the major watercourse crossings. Lovers Creek Subwatershed The 14 major watercourses that traverse the rail ROW either support, or have the potential to support a fishery The water quality of the Lovers Creek subwatershed is monitored as part of the PWQMN and LSPP and water as described in the Fisheries Act. Many of the minor watercourses crossed (that are not mentioned in Table 4-6), quality data have been recorded from 1974 to the present. The Barrie Creeks, Lovers Creek, and Hewitt’s Creek also either directly or in-directly support fish that are part of a fishery. These minor watercourses are described Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012 b) states that the current data set indicates that water quality in the Lovers further in Appendix D of this Report. A high-rail tour of the Barrie rail corridor was completed by Burnside staff Creek system is declining, a trend which is further emphasized when compared with the historic data set. This is between June 1 and June 5, 2015, with the aim of verifying and adding to the background information, and primarily due to land use changes in the lower half of the system, from rural and agricultural to industrial, confirming the presence of potential fish habitat within the study area. The following sections provide a description commercial, and residential. Chloride, phosphorus, zinc, and copper were described as increasing in of the watercourse crossings and site reconnaissance findings based on these activities. concentration between 2002 and 2010. The reaches of these watercourses vary in their degree of human influence, ranging from relatively undisturbed The Lovers Creek subwatershed is identified as contributing 1.4% of the total phosphorus loads per subwatershed conditions with adjacent valley forest cover to open, channelized reaches with very little associated natural to Lake Simcoe, using data from 2010. This creek and its branches are characterized as predominantly containing vegetation and mostly human land uses. The flow regimes of the major watercourse crossings, and the majority Fair water quality, but does range from Good to Poor according to the IBI. Locations of watercourse crossings of of the relatively minor watercourse crossings, appear permanent in nature. tributaries within the Lovers Creek subwatershed are shown on Sheet 130 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. It is noted that some of the minor watercourse crossings, as observed during the site investigations, exhibit flow regimes that can be described as unstable, with stream levels greatly fluctuating after rainfall and storm events. Barrie Creeks Subwatershed Minor ephemeral and Headwater Drainage Features (HDFs) that did not appear to provide habitat to fish at any The Barrie Creeks subwatershed is located almost entirely within the limits of the City of Barrie (approximately time throughout the year were not assessed as part of this study. These drainage features are typically 93%), and is one of the most urbanized subwatersheds in the Lake Simcoe basin with approximately 63% of the represented by meadow and agricultural swales, drainage ditches, and topographic lows. land use being urban. As anticipated, the Barrie Creeks subwatershed contains a high percentage (approximately 5%) of impervious surfaces across the land, which contributes to degradation of the subwatershed system, specifically with respect to water quality. The subwatershed is identified in the Barrie Creeks, Lovers Creek, and Hewitt’s Creek Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012b) as contributing 14.8% of the total phosphorus loads per subwatershed to Lake Simcoe (using data from 2010), which is the highest percentage of any of the subwatersheds.

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Table 4-6: Major Watercourse Crossings in the Study Area 4.8.3.2 Westminster Creek - Mile 16.70 Mileage of Crossing on Barrie Rail Westminster Creek is also part of the Upper West Don River subwatershed and drains into the West Don River. Major Watercourses Applicable Conservation Authority Corridor It generally flows from north to south and is crossed by the existing rail ROW, adjacent to the Rutherford GO West Don River TRCA 15.40 Station, south of Rutherford Road. Westminster Creek is identified as consisting of some flood vulnerable areas, Westminster Creek TRCA 16.70 as the Upper West Don River subwatershed lacks stormwater management (Don River Watershed Plan, 2009). East Humber River TRCA 24.80 The watercourse in the area of the crossing was the headwaters, and was characterized as a ponded area of a Tannery Creek LSRCA 28.80, 31.50 and 32.00 wetland that was very slow-moving. The channel was relatively undefined, and was not considered to be direct East Holland River LSRCA 33.70 fish habitat, but contributes water quality and quantity to direct fish habitat downstream. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.1 of this Report. West Holland River LSRCA 41.00 Scanlon Creek LSRCA 44.15 The substrate in the area of the existing rail ROW was identified as detritus and muck, and the White Birch Creek LSRCA 49.20 and 49.25 wetland/watercourse contained cattails and Common Reed (Phragmites australis ssp. australis). The wetland appeared to receive the majority of its upstream water from drainage ditches. This watercourse is characterized Wilson Creek LSRCA 50.12, 50.36, and 50.86 as a permanent, warm water watercourse and its location is shown on Sheet 33 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Carson Creek LSRCA 52.12 Appendix A.2 of this Report. Belle Aire Creek LSRCA 53.28 4.8.3.3 East Humber River - Mile 24.80 Hewitt’s Creek LSRCA 57.41, 58.33 The Humber River watershed is the largest in the TRCA’s jurisdiction and encompasses 908 km2. The watershed Lovers Creek LSRCA 61.20 flows through a number of significant physiographic areas. More specifically, it flows through the South Slope and Whiskey Creek LSRCA 62.00 Peel Plain within the study area. The Humber River watershed spans four regional municipalities or counties and ten local municipalities. 4.8.3.1 West Don River - Mile 15.40 The main stem and several tributary branches of the West Don River are crossed by the existing rail ROW at Due to its rich history, the Humber River was designated a Canadian Heritage River in 1999, and is the only river several locations north of Highway 407, in the City of Vaughan. Encompassing 358 km2 in total, the Don River to receive this designation in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The Canadian Heritage Rivers System is Canada’s watershed is one of the largest in the TRCA’s jurisdiction. The only watercourses that the existing Barrie rail national river conservation program, and is aimed to promote, protect, and enhance Canada’s river heritage. No corridor traverses within the Don River Watershed are located entirely within the Upper West Don River new legislation is created when a river is designated a Canadian Heritage River, and all protective actions depend subwatershed. This subwatershed contains half of the watershed’s higher quality terrestrial habitat (Don River on existing laws and regulations, and respect the rights of Aboriginal peoples, communities, private landowners, Watershed Plan, 2009). There are also several flood-vulnerable areas within the subwatershed in the general and other stakeholders (Canadian Heritage Rivers System, 2011). region of the crossing. Geological processes such as glaciation, erosion, flooding, and deposition have also contributed to the natural The section of the West Don River at Mile 15.40 is crossed north-south by a stone block bridge that is constructed heritage value of the Humber River watershed. The Humber watershed contains an extensive greenspace system relatively high above the river. At the time of the site reconnaissance, the steep banks were free of established through the GTA and the Main and East branches are popular locations for angling. vegetation as construction involving land-clearing, was ongoing both north and south of the crossing. The river The East Humber River and its tributaries are crossed at several locations along the existing Barrie rail corridor. flows west to east, beneath the bridge in an almost uniform flat morphology. Upstream adjacent to the bridge, the Existing conditions within and adjacent to the rail corridor were observed by Burnside staff during the June, 2015 relatively wide channel (approximately 4.5 metres) meanders south, parallel to the existing rail ROW prior to high-rail tour from the crossing. Background information in the area of the Mile 24.80 crossing indicated the flowing beneath the bridge. Downstream, the channel was characterized as being relatively straight. Established potential presence of Redside Dace (Clinostomus elogatus) Habitat. Redside Dace is listed as a SAR fish and is riparian vegetation was observed both upstream and downstream of the bridge within and beyond the rail corridor, classified as an Endangered Species under Ontario’s ESA, 2007. See Section 5.9.2 of this Report for additional providing some overhead cover. Large downed wood debris was also noted, along with a predominantly sand details. The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 51 of Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of substrate. Although no fish were observed during the site reconnaissance, the watercourse provides direct fish this Report. habitat and is characterized as a permanent warm water watercourse. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.1 of this Report and the location of the watercourse is shown on Sheet The East Humber River at this location consists of an upstream flat morphology, flowing west into a relatively 31 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. large pool (approximately 20 metres by 20 metres), adjacent to the downstream section of the existing rail ROW. The water then continues to flow west through a meandering run section, that lies within a meadow valley. The substrate within the watercourse was observed to be comprised predominantly of sand, along with some silt and

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cobble-sized stone. No major erosion was observed near the rail crossing, though approximately 40 metres section of the watercourse, indicating a cool to cold water thermal regime and relatively high water quality. The downstream, outside of the existing rail ROW; some of the banks along the meanders were undercut. A relatively location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 60 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. immature riparian cover existed on the downstream side of the watercourse, though the upstream section The crossing at Mile 31.50, shown in Photo 4-8, was identified as a branch of Tannery Creek, a permanently contained mature apple trees and shrubs. No major erosion was observed around the existing bridge piers. flowing watercourse. This branch of Tannery Creek generally flows from west to east beneath the existing Barrie Although no fish were observed during the site investigations, it is very likely that fish inhabit this stretch of the rail corridor. The existing rail ROW in the area of the watercourse was characterized by steep banks that lead watercourse. Based on background information, this watercourse is identified as a permanent, warm water down to a narrow stone bridge/culvert. A debris dam was observed adjacent, upstream of the culvert and provides watercourse and likely provides direct fish habitat for fish that prefer cool to warm water thermal regimes. The a seasonal barrier to fish movement. The upstream section of the watercourse flows south, parallel with the background information also identified this section of the East Humber River as potentially containing habitat used existing rail ROW, before it bends east, flowing through the culvert and across St. Andrew’s Valley Golf Course. by Redside Dace. However, based on the site investigations, the areas immediately adjacent to the rail ROW did This upstream section was characterized as having a wide (7 metres wetted width), flat morphology, with a not appear to be ideal habitat for Redside Dace, as this species tends to prefer slow-moving, cool streams that predominantly sand, silt, and muck substrate and some sporadic concrete rubble. feature successions of riffles and pool sequences that are bound by copious, low overhanging riparian vegetation. This type of habitat was not present.

4.8.3.4 Tannery Creek - Mile 28.80, 31.50 and 32.00 Tannery Creek is located within the East Holland River subwatershed and outlets to Lake Simcoe. Three major branches of the creek are crossed by the existing rail ROW, near the Town of Aurora. The watercourse at crossing Mile 28.80, shown in Photo 4-7, flows from south to north from a forested wetland, beneath the existing rail ROW, and into a meadow-like landscape.

The upstream section was characterized as a slightly meandering channel with mostly flat morphology, abundant canopy cover and some sections of under-cut banks. The substrate upstream of the crossing was Photo 4-8: Branch of Tannery Creek with robust riparian vegetation and canopy cover (Mile 31.50) comprised predominantly of cobble and sand, and also contained silt and gravel. The downstream section was Immediately downstream of the crossing, the culvert outlets to a plunge pool and short riffle section that contains characterized as a run and pool (approximately one gravel, sand, and boulder-sized stone substrate. West of the existing rail ROW, the creek is bordered by mature metre deep) section, flowing to a flat (where the riparian vegetation and is relatively well shaded, while east of the existing rail ROW, the creek flows through St. watercourse then flows east) that flowed parallel to the Andrew’s Valley Golf Course and has a relatively poor riparian system, primarily consisting of grasses. The existing rail ROW. The downstream section did not show location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 66 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. any major signs of erosion. The crossing of a branch of Tannery Creek at Mile 32.00 is characterized as a permanent watercourse that flows A small groundwater seep was observed within the under a concrete bridge. The watercourse generally flows from east to west, in the form of a run. A relatively small Photo 4-7: The water in Tannery Creek features existing rail ROW, downstream of the culvert at Mile low turbidity, and large gravel substrate well- pool section was noted approximately 15 metres downstream of the crossing, along the northern bank. A partial 28.80, and contributes to the water quality and quantity suited for fish spawning (Mile 28.80) dam of the watercourse (formed by wood debris) was noted approximately 25 metres downstream of the crossing. in the watercourse. The substrate within 30 metres Eroded banks were observed both upstream and downstream along the southern bank, indicating periods of downstream of the crossing varied depending on its location within the morphology, with cobble being observed higher flow, likely during storm events. The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 67 of Drawing NER- in the run and pool section, while finer sediment (silt) was more predominant in the flat section. Pea gravel was 02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. also noted in the flat section downstream, and appeared to have been deposited there manually, potentially to Though no fish were detected at the Mile 31.50 and Mile 32.00 crossings during the site reconnaissance, it is provide spawning habitat for resident trout species. Several Brook Trout were observed in the downstream pool very likely that fish species inhabit the observed sections of the watercourse. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.3 of this Report.

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4.8.3.5 East Holland River - Mile 33.70 reservoir (approximately 4 ha), approximately 200 metres upstream of the Mile 44.15 crossing (LSRCA, 2011). The East Holland River and many of its tributaries originate within the ORM. These watercourses depend on the The reservoir has recently been taken off-line and a constructed channel now conveys flow downstream towards discharge of the shallow groundwater system to maintain baseflow. This crossing of the East Holland River is the rail crossing. located approximately 20 metres north of Timothy Street in the Town of Newmarket. The State of the Watershed The existing rail crossing is characterized as a historic stone and concrete bridge that is aligned in a generally Report for the East Holland River Subwatershed (LSRCA, 2000) indicates that the crossing at Mile 33.70 is north-south direction. At this crossing location, the watercourse was observed to be flowing very slowly in a west located in a catchment area that contains the most urbanized land use in the East Holland River subwatershed to east direction, with a flat morphology throughout. The watercourse has a relatively level gradient with a wide (89.9% of catchment area). Not surprisingly, the PWQMN report indicates that this watercourse has relatively channel, flowing through adjacent wetlands. Downstream of the crossing, the channel widens to the north, forming poor water quality in the area of the crossing at Mile 33.70. a relatively large ponded area, where the watercourse is located to the south, flowing west. The substrate at the This section of the East Holland River consists of an upstream and downstream run section flowing through a crossing is characterized as predominantly fine sediment including muck, silt, and sand. Although no fish were highly channelized and hardened morphology. Upstream of the crossing, the watercourse generally flows east observed during the site reconnaissance, warm water to cool water-tolerant fish are likely to exist within the from two subterranean concrete box culverts, through a concrete and gabion-basket-banked channel beneath watercourse. the crossing. The substrate in the area is primarily comprised of concrete, cobble, gravel, and sand. A permanent Based on correspondence with the LSRCA, several fish species were caught in the creek system during the June barrier to fish movement, in the form of a dam at Water Street, was identified approximately 200 metres upstream. 20, 2015 Scanlon Creek BioBlitz, including Mottled Sculpin (Cottus bairdii), whose presence is an indicator of a Fish usage would likely include warm water species due to limited groundwater input, though this watercourse is cool to cold water thermal regime. The fish were sampled upstream of the crossing, in the constructed channel considered to be permanent direct fish habitat. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is and upstream of the off-line reservoir and are further discussed in Section 5.9.4. The location of this watercourse described in Section 5.9.3 of this Report. The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 70 of Drawing NER- is shown on Sheet 93 of Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. 02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. 4.8.3.8 White Birch Creek – Mile 49.20 and 49.25 4.8.3.6 West Holland River - Mile 41.00 Branches of White Birch Creek are crossed at two locations by the existing Barrie rail corridor, near the community The crossing at Mile 41.00 of the West Holland River is the final crossing before the watercourse discharges into (settlement area) of Gilford. Both crossings are located close together and flow from west to east, beneath the Cook’s Bay (part of Lake Simcoe). Based on background information, this section of the main stem of the West rail corridor, discharging into Cook’s Bay in Lake Simcoe. The southernmost crossing at Mile 49.20, is Holland River is identified as having a warm water thermal regime and provides habitat to a diverse range of characterized as a permanent watercourse that flows east from a wooded area, beneath a small bridge crossing, sportfish. Similar to the East Holland River, the West Holland River is considered large riverine habitat. where it continues to flow east through a meadow. The watercourse exhibits flat morphology, with small sections Existing conditions observed during the high-rail tour confirmed that this watercourse is permanent, direct fish of runs in the area immediately adjacent up and downstream of the rail crossing. No major evidence of erosion habitat. The morphology is flat through the entirety of the observed length of the straight channel pattern. was observed, though the channel does deepen approximately 30 metres downstream as it meanders through Unfortunately, substrate could not be observed during the site reconnaissance due to murky water conditions. the adjacent meadow. During the site reconnaissance, the watercourse was well shaded by shore vegetation However, based on the slow flow and flat morphology, it is expected that the substrate would generally consist of including Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus stolonifera) (See Photo 4-9, below) and Shrub Willow (Salix spp.). The finer-grained material. The riparian area consisted of low-lying wetland-type vegetation (cattails and reeds), and substrate varied across the observed section of watercourse, with finer material observed in the slower-moving, willow trees. Floating woody debris was also noted along the shorelines as were aquatic vegetation including flat sections (silt and sand), and coarser sediment in the run sections (gravel, cobble, and sand). emergent lily pads, floating algae, and submerged Curly-leaved Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus L.). The northernmost crossing at Mile 49.25 is characterized as a permanent watercourse that flows east from an Semi-permanent houseboats and a relatively small marina were observed approximately 100 metres downstream upstream low-lying area. This watercourse flows beneath the rail corridor to a golf course downstream and was of the crossing. Both the rail and road crossings are relatively close to the water and only allow for small personal characterized as containing a concrete block barrier to fish movement at the downstream side of the rail track, watercraft access to upstream sections. Although no fish were observed, this section of the watercourse is inhibiting potential fish movement. During the site reconnaissance, this watercourse was flowing slowly through considered permanent direct fish habitat for various fish species, including sportfish. Further discussion on fish a relatively wide and shallow ponded area. The upstream channel was observed to be narrow with limited channel and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.4 of this Report, while the location of this watercourse definition. The watercourse was well shaded with mature tree and shrub vegetation and the substrate primarily is shown on Sheet 86 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2. consisted of fine sediment including silt and sand. Trace boulders and large pieces of concrete were also observed within the creek. It is expected that this watercourse receives the majority of its water quantity from 4.8.3.7 Scanlon Creek - Mile 44.15 upstream wetlands, storm events, and also groundwater during the spring freshet. The Scanlon Creek drainage network is located within the West Holland River subwatershed and is comprised of the main branch as well as 44 tributary streams. According to the Scanlon Creek Conservation Area Management The locations of these watercourses are shown on Sheet 104 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of Plan (LSRCA, 2015b), the source of the main branch of the creek originates from Wright’s Marsh (a locally this Report. significant wetland). There are ten on-line ponds along Scanlon Creek, the largest of which was the former on-line

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The northern branch (Mile 49.20) was described as a defined channel flowing from a small wetland feature. The Mile 50.36 and 50.86 are part of the provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Complex and appear to function adjacent land use upstream of the rail crossing was a forested wetland and relatively small ponded area, while as more of a HDF, or ephemeral feature. the adjacent downstream land use, includes the Harbourview Golf and Country Club and a forested wetland. The The Mile 50.12 crossing is a permanent watercourse that is characterized as a headwater contributor to the northern branch contained less flow than the Mile 49.13 crossing and appeared to have lower quality fish habitat. provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Complex. It likely conveys flows derived from overland runoff, but A permanent barrier to fish movement was identified immediately upstream of the existing rail crossing, inhibiting primarily receives its water quantity from groundwater discharge. Brook Stickleback (Culaea inconstans) were any potential fish movement within the watercourse system. observed during the site reconnaissance and it is likely that this section of watercourse provides habitat for other cool water tolerant fish species. The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 106 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

The Mile 50.36 watercourse crossing is an intermittent feature that provides direct flow to the downstream provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Complex. During the site reconnaissance, this watercourse was not flowing, though a relatively short upstream channel was observed in the agricultural field to the west. It is expected that this watercourse receives the majority of its water quantity from the runoff of adjacent lands, and also groundwater during the spring freshet. This watercourse likely conveys sediment, created by runoff from the adjacent agricultural field, to downstream environments during rain events and snowmelt. No fish were observed, and it is likely that this section of the watercourse does not provide direct habitat to fish. According to data obtained from the MNRF fish-dot information, the watercourse is identified as a low sensitivity watercourse, and its location is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

The Mile 50.86 watercourse crossing is an intermittent cool water watercourse, and is characterized as a HDF that contributes water during periods of precipitation and the spring freshet. At the time of the site reconnaissance, the channel was completely grassed and likely does not provide direct habitat to fish species. Similar to the Mile 50.36 crossing, this watercourse is also identified as a low sensitivity watercourse based on data obtained from the MNRF. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.5 of this Report. The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheets 107 and 108 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Photo 4-9: Red Osier Dogwood shrub thicket (Mile 20.86) 4.8.3.10 Carson Creek - Mile 52.12 Carson Creek is crossed by the existing Barrie rail corridor north of the Wilson Creek watercourse system, and According to the Innisfil Creeks Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012a), White Birch Creek is considered one of the also discharges to Lake Simcoe. At the Mile 52.12 crossing, the channel generally meanders from west to east healthiest creek systems in the subwatershed, with both fish and benthic invertebrates displaying healthy through a box culvert constructed with wingwalls and gabion baskets. The intermittent watercourse flows through conditions. In the area of the crossing, White Birch Creek is considered a cool water watercourse with both warm a forested corridor and contains some overhanging vegetation and relatively substantial shading from shore and cold water species having been captured during the LSRCA monitoring. Cyprinid species were observed cover. The surrounding land use was characterized as agricultural lands and residential development. beneath the bridge during the site reconnaissance, but the species could not be verified in the field. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.5 of this Report. The location of this At the time of the site reconnaissance, the watercourse appeared to be stagnant and intermittently dry, but watercourse is shown on Sheet 104 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. contained characteristics of a watercourse. The watercourse morphology was described as flat, with a mean depth of 0.15 metres and a width of 1.3 metres. The substrate was primarily comprised of gravel and sand, and 4.8.3.9 Wilson Creek - Mile 50.12, 50.36, and 50.86 also contained some cobble. Due to low water flow, seasonal migratory obstructions exist within the watercourse Similar to White Birch Creek, the Wilson Creek system is located in the Innisfil Creeks subwatershed and and no evidence of major erosion to the banks of the watercourse was noted. According to the Innisfil Creeks discharges to Lake Simcoe. The Wilson Creek system is crossed at three locations by the existing Barrie rail Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012a), the watercourse in the area of the crossing and downstream, is identified corridor. In each case, the watercourse generally flows from west to east beneath the rail corridor, and all are as a Type A drain, indicating that it is considered to contain fish and fish habitat, more resilient to drain classified as having a cool water thermal regime in the Innisfil Creeks Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012a). In maintenance (i.e., less sensitive). general, water flows through each branch were relatively low during the site reconnaissance. The crossings at

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The new residential development noted upstream of the watercourse crossing was identified as being a potential throughout the year. The upstream section extends for approximately 90 metres south of the crossing and is reason for the lack of flow observed during the site reconnaissance, however this was not investigated further. encompassed within an agricultural field, which is the origin of this branch of the Hewitt’s Creek system. Although no fish were observed, and the flow of the watercourse is described as intermittent, the watercourse Downstream of the rail crossing, the watercourse flows through a wetland and meadow. Seasonal barriers to fish potentially contains fish and fish habitat. Type A municipal drains indicate a cold/cool temperature, with no movement exist in these watercourses periodically throughout the year during times of low flow. Further sensitive fish species and/or fish communities present. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.6 of this Report. The location of this is described in Section 5.9.5 of this Report. In addition, the location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 110 of watercourse is shown on Sheet 123 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. 4.8.3.13 Lovers Creek - Mile 61.20 4.8.3.11 Belle Aire Creek - Mile 53.28 The main stem of Lovers Creek is crossed by the existing Barrie rail corridor at Mile 61.20. This relatively large The watercourse crossing of Belle Aire Creek at Mile 53.28 was observed during the site reconnaissance. The creek generally flows from south to north and is crossed by an elevated, clear-span railway bridge before flowing crossing was characterized as a round cement pipe that was greater than two metres in diameter, and conveyed directly into Lake Simcoe, approximately one km north of the rail ROW. According to the Barrie Creeks, Lovers flow from an upstream section of channelized agricultural drain. This potentially intermittent watercourse was Creek, and Hewitt’s Creeks Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012b), the watercourse provides habitat and is used observed generally flowing west to east at a very slow velocity (<0.01 m/s). It displayed a flat morphology, with a by various species of cold and warm water fish (Brook Trout, Largemouth Bass, Micropterus salmoides), despite substrate consisting primarily of muck. No major erosion was observed, and the banks of the stream contained having warm water characteristics in the area of the Barrie rail corridor. In the same report, benthic communities riparian vegetation that provided some shade to the watercourse. are described as ‘very good’ near the mouth, while they vary between ‘fairly poor’ and ‘good’ in the headwaters of the various branches (LSCRA, 2012b). Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described Although no fish were observed, the watercourse potentially provides habitat to low sensitivity fish species at in Section 5.9.7 of this Report. periods throughout the year. Seasonal barriers to fish migration are potentially created during periods of low flow. According to the Innisfil Creeks Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012a), the watercourse is classified as a Type A Within 20 metres upstream of the crossing, the watercourse was characterized as having a shallow riffled section municipal drain, indicating that it is considered to contain fish and fish habitat more resilient to drain maintenance. that flowed through a relatively straight and stable channel. The substrate was characterized as consisting of Type A municipal drains indicate a cold/cool temperature, with no sensitive fish species and/or fish communities gravel, cobble, and sand, and the shore provided good stream cover through mature riparian vegetation, including present. Further discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.5 of this Report. several large Manitoba Maples. The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheet 113 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Within 30 metres downstream of the crossing, the watercourse consisted of variations of run and pool morphology, Report. with substrate consisting of gravel, cobble, and boulder sized sediment. The run sections were approximately 0.3 4.8.3.12 Hewitt’s Creek - Mile 57.41 and 58.33 metres deep, while the pool sections were approximately 0.5 metres deep and ranged between 5 metres to 7 Two of the upper branches of the Hewitt’s Creek system are crossed by the existing Barrie rail ROW, north of metres in width. Along the eastern shore, adjacent to the rail ROW, a stormwater management outlet was noted. Belle Aire Creek, and east of the community (settlement area) of Stroud (Mile 57.41 and Mile 58.21). Both of the Though not flowing at the time of the site reconnaissance, this outlet discharges to the creek when water levels watercourses were observed during the high-rail tour and were described as intermittent in nature. However, in the stormwater management pond located east of Cox Mill Road are high. The location of this watercourse is during periods of flow these watercourses convey water downstream to the permanent cold water main stem of shown on Sheet 130 of Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Hewitt’s Creek, which is an important cold water watercourse that provides habitat to resident Brook Trout. 4.8.3.14 Whiskey Creek - Mile 62.00 The Mile 57.41 crossing is aligned adjacent to agricultural fields and residential properties, and the watercourse Whiskey Creek is a permanent watercourse and is crossed by the existing Barrie rail corridor near the was characterized as functioning as a relatively straight, channelized agricultural drain. At the time of the site northernmost extent of the study area. Whiskey Creek has a watershed area of 6.15 km2, and is approximately reconnaissance, the water flow was observed to be very slow. The riparian vegetation primarily consisted of 12 km long. Whiskey Creek flows north, through a long section of subterranean CSP culvert, beneath the rail mature trees and shrubs and provided some cover from the shore. No major signs of erosion were noted and the ROW, and discharges to Lake Simcoe, approximately 600 metres north of the crossing. banks appeared stable. The substrate in this watercourse consisted of muck, along with silt and sand. A concrete Whiskey Creek is described in the Barrie Creeks, Lovers Creek, and Hewitt’s Creek Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, outlet was observed discharging to this channel approximately 10 metres upstream of the crossing and is believed 2012b) as having a current and historical presence of Brook Trout and Mottled Sculpin. It is a cool to cold water to flow periodically from a stormwater management pond located approximately 225 metres further upstream. system that flows through sandy loam soils, with moderate to high infiltration rates. The benthic community is also The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheets 121 and 122 of Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 described as good in the area of the crossing, despite bank hardening and channelization near the mouth. Further of this Report. discussion on fish and fish habitat for this system is described in Section 5.9.8 of this Report. The watercourse at the Mile 58.33 crossing was dry at the time of the site reconnaissance, but intermittently At the time of the site reconnaissance, the watercourse was relatively wide (approximately four metres) throughout conveys flow from overland runoff to the downstream wetland, and eventually, the main branch of Hewitt’s Creek. the observed length (approximately 70 metres), with very slow flows (approximately 0.01 m/s). Some mature This section of the watercourse is classified as a HDF and likely does not provide habitat to fish at any point

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riparian vegetation was observed adjacent to the watercourse within approximately 20 metres upstream of the As described in Section 2 of this Report, within the ORMCP, Greenbelt Plan and LSPP policy areas, all wetlands, crossing, though the creek was relatively uncovered. Within the upstream segment, a shallow riffle section was regardless of their evaluation status, are considered to be KNHFs (i.e., Significant). In addition, all wetlands are noted flowing through a cobble and gravel substrate. A permanent concrete barrier to fish movement was also regulated by conservation authorities. As noted in 3.2.4, Metrolinx intends to meet the spirit of the TRCA and observed in the upstream section restricting fish access to upstream environments year-round. LSRCA regulations. Thus, all wetlands, regardless of their significance were treated equally for the purposes of the BRCE Project. As mentioned, the watercourse flows subterranean beneath the rail ROW and adjacent gravel-surfaced lot, before re-emerging approximately 60 metres downstream in a woodlot. At the downstream side, the watercourse was 5.1.2 Findings of the Evaluation of Significance characterized as a pool (approximately 0.8 metres deep) containing a sand and muck substrate. Although no fish A total of 174 wetlands were identified within the study area. Of these, 57 individual wetlands were part of six were observed in this section, the watercourse is reported to provide habitat to a variety of warm and cold water known PSW Complexes, including the following: fish species (LSRCA, 2012b). The location of this watercourse is shown on Sheets 131 and 132 of Drawing NER- • King-Vaughan Wetland Complex; 02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. • Eaton Hall-Mary-Hackett Lakes Wetland Complex;

5. Findings of the Evaluation of Feature Significance • Aurora (McKenzie) Marsh Wetland The purpose of this section is to analyze the observations and findings of the site investigations and to determine Complex; which specific features of the landscape are considered to be Provincially Significant. As described in Section 2 • Holland Marsh Wetland Complex; of this Report, Provincially Significant features vary within each Provincial Plan area. The following sections document the various natural features found within the study area, explain how they were identified, and describe • Wilson Creek Marsh Wetland Complex; the criteria used to evaluate their significance. and

Each woodland, wetland, open country environment and non-intensive agricultural field was subjected to a variety • Little Cedar Point Wetland Complex. of criteria to determine its significance. In some cases, significance could be confirmed, while in other cases it A detailed list of all wetlands in the study was only possible to determine if a feature was potentially significant. In these cases, the feature was identified area is provided in Appendix H of this as a “Candidate Significant Feature”. The criteria applied to each feature type to determine significance and the Report. A summary is presented in Table findings of the assessment are presented below. 5-1, and the locations and delineations of 5.1 Wetlands and Provincially Significant Wetlands these listed wetlands can be found in Wetlands provide a biologically diverse habitat and perform a number of important ecologic and hydrologic Drawing NER-01, provided in Appendix A.1. functions. Based on vegetation community mapping, a total of 174 wetland communities were identified within Photo 5-1 depicts one of the many

the study area. The majority of wetlands were found in the portions of the study area near Lake Simcoe and the unevaluated wetlands in the study area. Simcoe Lowlands physiographic region in the Town of Innisfil. In the northern portion of the study area, the Photo 5-1: Unevaluated wetlands in study area (Mile 54.84) landscape is more rural, and the number and size of the wetlands increased substantially. 5.1.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance In Ontario, the significance of wetlands is determined using the Ontario Wetland Evaluation System (OWES). The system involves detailed site investigations to identify a variety of physiological, hydrological, biological and social functions. Evaluators must be trained on proper evaluation techniques and the MNRF must approve all evaluations before they are accepted. Through OWES, individual wetlands that are hydrologically connected are mapped together as “wetland complexes”.

For this study, no wetlands were evaluated using OWES. Through the background data review, mapping was obtained from digital LIO files for:

• All previously evaluated PSWs; and

• Previously evaluated wetlands which were found to be Non-significant.

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Table 5-1: Wetland Summary For the purposes of this study, York Region Significant Woodland mapping was used as the basis for identifying Number of Individual Significant Woodlands throughout York Region, including each of its respective lower-tier municipalities. Number of Unevaluated Provincially Significant Wetlands within Municipality Wetlands and Evaluated The remaining communities where Significant Woodland mapping was not available were the Cities of Toronto Wetlands Present Provincially Significant Non-PSWs Wetland Complexes1 and Barrie, and the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury. Criteria for identifying Significant Woodlands in these City of Toronto • None Present 0 1 jurisdictions were found within the NHRM (MNR, 2010) or various guidance documents pertaining to the applicable provincial plan policy areas. • King-Vaughan Wetland City of Vaughan 4.5 4 Complex Natural Heritage Reference Manual • King-Vaughan Wetland The City of Toronto is located within Ecoregion 7E and is subject to the methodology presented in the NHRM. Complex: This document defines Significant Woodlands based on a number of criteria including size, woodland interior, • Eaton Hall-Mary-Hackett Lakes Wetland Complex and proximity to other woodlands or other habitats, linkages, water protection, woodland diversity, uncommon Township of King 15.5 14 • Holland Marsh Wetland characteristics and economic and social functional values. For the purposes of this study, only woodland size and Complex woodland interior were applied. Other criteria require further on-site study or analysis at the municipal level and • Aurora (McKenzie) Marsh are intended to be carried out by municipalities. Application of these criteria was therefore considered beyond the Wetland Complex scope of this study. • Aurora (McKenzie) Marsh Town of Aurora 3.5 5 For the City of Toronto: Wetland Complex Town of Newmarket • None Present 0.5 15 • Woodland cover is less than 5% of the land cover, therefore woodlands two ha in size or larger are considered Town of East • Holland Marsh Wetland significant; and 6 14 Gwillimbury Complex • Any woodland with interior habitat, more than 100 metres from an edge, is considered significant. Town of Bradford West • Holland Marsh Wetland 5.5 17 Gwillimbury Complex Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan • Holland Marsh Wetland The ORMCP Significant Woodland criteria were not specifically applied to woodlands in the ORMCP portion of Complex the study area. Rather, York Region Significant Woodland mapping was used. Regional mapping must be • Wilson Creek Marsh Town of Innisfil 21.5 44 consistent with the ORMCP criteria; therefore the requirements of the ORMCP have been met. Wetland Complex • Little Cedar Point Wetland Greenbelt Plan Complex The southern portions of the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury fall within the Greenbelt Plan Area. Within the City of Barrie • None Present 0 3 Greenbelt Plan Area, Significant Woodlands are wooded areas which meet a number of size, natural composition, TOTAL 57 117 age or tree size, proximity to other significant features and rarity criteria. Criteria differ depending on whether a 1 Wetlands located partially in two municipalities were counted as one half for each respective municipality. woodland is located in a defined “north area” or “south area”. The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury is located 5.2 Significant Woodlands within the north area. For the purposes of this study, only woodland size criteria could be applied. Other criteria require further on-site study or analysis at the municipal level, and were considered beyond the scope of this Within the study area, 202 woodlands were identified, made up of a variety of deciduous, coniferous and mixed study. For the portions of the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury within the Greenbelt Plan Area, Significant forests and plantation areas. A greater number of woodlands and larger woodlands were present within the Woodlands were considered to be any woodland greater than 10 ha in size. northern portions of the study area, with more woodlands located in rural regions rather than urban environments. It is noted that treed swamps are both woodlands and wetlands. Thus, some of the wetlands described and Lake Simcoe Protection Plan evaluated in the previous section coincide with woodlands evaluated in this section. The northern portion of the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury and the City of Barrie both fall within the LSPP 5.2.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance Area. Within this plan area, Significant Woodlands are defined based on criteria similar to those of the Greenbelt Though Significant Woodlands mapping was requested from applicable upper and lower-tier municipalities, only Plan, including size, natural composition, age or tree size, proximity to other significant features and rarity. Within York Region, Town of Aurora and Town of Innisfil data were available. Most municipalities have aggregated the LSPP, a “north area” and a “south area” are also identified (MNRF, 2015b). The northern portions of the Town woodlands with other components (e.g., wetlands, valleys) as part of their greater designated NHS or Network.

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of Bradford West Gwillimbury fall within the south area and the City of Barrie falls within the north area. For the purposes of this study, only woodland size criteria were applied. Other criteria require further on-site study or 5.3 Significant Valleylands analysis at the municipal level and are intended to be carried out by municipalities. Application of these criteria A Valleyland is a natural depression in the landscape that provides structure to a watershed. They are associated was therefore considered beyond the scope of this study. Thus, for the northern portions of the study area, the with a watercourse and vary in size from small headwater features to wide spans containing substantial rivers. following criteria were used to identify Significant Woodlands: Valleylands provide hydrological conveyance and also provide important ecological linkage functions. • Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury - Significant Woodlands were considered to be any woodland greater 5.3.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance than four ha in size; Significant Valleylands were identified through a desktop study that included the analysis of topographic and • City of Barrie - Significant Woodlands were considered to be any woodland greater than 10 ha in size. conservation authority regulated area mapping, OPs, and Subwatershed Plans, as well as aerial imagery. The TRCA has mapped valleys as part of their regulation mapping. Valleyland mapping was provided in digital form 5.2.2 Findings of the Evaluation of Significance from the TRCA. The valleys were then assessed based on criteria provided in the NHRM (MNR, 2010). In this Based on the criteria described above, of the 202 woodlands in the study area, 89 were identified as Significant. document, several criteria are provided for evaluating the significance of Valleylands, including landform-related A summary of all woodlands is provided in Table 5-2 and a detailed list is located in Appendix H of this Report. functions and attributes, ecological features and restored ecological functions. For the purposes of this Report, All Significant Woodlands are mapped in Drawing NER-01 provided in Appendix A.1 of this Report. the criteria that were selected for evaluation from these recommended criteria were: Table 5-2: Woodland Summary • Areas with well-defined valley morphology (i.e., floodplains, valley slopes) having an average width of 25 Number of Number of Non- metres or more; Municipality Significant Significant Criteria Used to Determine Significance Woodlands1 Woodlands* • Areas of water conveyance from catchment areas of 50 ha or greater, as defined by a stream channel City of Toronto 1 1 Size Criteria based on NHRM (MNR, 2010) conveying or holding water for at least two months of the year; City of Vaughan 7 10 York Region Significant Woodlands Mapping • Areas of greater than 25% natural vegetation cover; and

Township of King 7 22 York Region Significant Woodlands Mapping • Areas that provide a linkage function with the portion of the Valleyland possessing continuous natural York Region Significant Woodlands Mapping, Town of Aurora 11.5 9.5 vegetation corridors with a minimum width of 100 metres. Town of Aurora OP Schedules E and E1 Other criteria require further on-site study or analysis at the landscape scale and are intended to be carried out Town of Newmarket 7.5 3.5 York Region Significant Woodlands Mapping by municipalities. As such, application of these criteria was considered beyond the scope of this study. Town of East 16 2 York Region Significant Woodlands Mapping Gwillimbury The LSRCA has identified Significant Valleylands within several subwatershed studies and the City of Barrie has Town of Bradford Size Criteria based on Greenbelt Plan/LSPP identified Significant Valleylands within their OP. This existing mapping was used in these areas. 6.5 24 West Gwillimbury Guidance Documents 5.3.2 Findings of the Evaluation of Significance Town of Innisfil 29.5 33 Innisfil Significant Woodlands Mapping Within the TRCA’s jurisdiction, Significant Valleylands were confined to only a small number of locations in the Size Criteria Based on LSPP Guidance City of Barrie 3 8 BRCE Project study area, namely, in the area of Mile 8.50 (near Maple Leaf Creek, Westminster Creek Document (approximately Mile 16.70), and the East Humber River and its tributaries (approximately Mile 24.00 to Mile Total: 89 113 25.50).

1 Woodlands located partially in two municipalities were counted as one half for each respective municipality. Within the LSRCA jurisdiction, 13 valleyland crossings were identified. Significant Valleylands found within the BRCE Project study area are summarized below in Table 5-3. It should be noted that the Barrie rail corridor mile marker references included within the tables of this Report are based on the Metrolinx Barrie rail corridor track schematic and official mile markers for road crossings, stations, structures and culverts. All other locations where there is not an official mile marker are approximate mileage references relative to the Barrie rail corridor track schematic. Locations are shown in Drawing NER-01, provided in Appendix A.1, while additional details are found within Appendix I of this Report.

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Table 5-3: Significant Valleylands 5.4.1 Methodology Used to Evaluate Significance

Only the MNRF can evaluate and designate areas as ANSIs, thus no evaluations were conducted as part of this

study. All ANSIs within the study area were identified through information provided by the MNRF and digital LIO28

Mile Mile files. 27

Municipality 5.4.2 Findings in Barrie Rail Rail Barrie in

There were no Earth Science ANSIs present within the study area. Three Life Science ANSIs were identified; two

Authority Authority

Plan Area Plan Corridor

Associated Associated of which (Maple Uplands and Kettles, and Holland Landing and Fen Wetlands) are considered to be Candidate

Watercourse

Jurisdictions

Conservation Conservation

Within Greenbelt Greenbelt Within Approximate Approximate

Moraine Plan Area Plan Moraine ANSIs, which are provincial-level ANSIs that the MNRF has identified and recommended for protection, but have

Within Oak Ridges Ridges Oak Within

Within Lake Simcoe Simcoe Lake Within Marker Protection Plan Area Plan Protection not yet been formally confirmed. The Holland River Marsh ANSI is classified as a Provincial Life Science ANSI. City of Toronto 8.13 TRCA Maple Leaf Creek No No No Each of these ANSIs is summarized in Table 5-4, below. The locations and delineations of these listed ANSIs City of Vaughan 16.70 TRCA Westminster Creek No No No can be found throughout Drawing NER-01, provided in Appendix A.1 of this Report. It is noted that the ANSIs 23.26 TRCA Tributary of East Humber River Yes Yes No correspond with previously identified woodlands and wetlands. Additional details are provided in Appendix I of Township of King 23.94 TRCA Tributary of East Humber River Yes Yes No this Report. 24.98 TRCA Tributary of East Humber River Yes Yes No Table 5-4: Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest 28.66 LSRCA Tannery Creek Yes Yes Yes Approximate Mile Marker in Town of Aurora Municipality ANSI Name ANSI Type Area (ha) 31.39 LSRCA Tannery Creek No No Yes Barrie Rail Corridor 31.95 LSRCA Tannery Creek No No Yes City of Toronto None Present N/A N/A N/A Candidate ANSI Town of Newmarket 32.19 LSRCA Tributary of East Holland River No No Yes City of Vaughan/Township Maple Uplands 21.75 – 22.60 (Provincial Life 58.00 of King and Kettles 34.49 LSRCA East Holland River No No Yes Science) 35.67 LSRCA East Holland River No No Yes Town of Aurora None Present N/A N/A N/A 36.60 LSRCA East Holland River No No Yes Town of East Gwillimbury Town of Newmarket None Present N/A N/A N/A Tributary of East Holland River/East Holland Holland Landing Candidate ANSI 36.97 LSRCA No No Yes River Town of East Gwillimbury 38.40 – 38.60 and Fen (Provincial Life 156.00 Wetlands Science) 43.98 LSRCA Scanlon Creek No No Yes Town of Bradford West Town of Bradford West Holland River Provincial Life 47.25 – 48.60 1,022.00 Gwillimbury 45.53 LSRCA Tributary of West Holland River No No Yes Gwillimbury Marsh Science ANSI Town of Innisfil 58.25 LSRCA Hewitt’s Creek No No Yes Town of Innisfil None Present N/A N/A N/A 61.02 LSRCA Lovers Creek No No Yes City of Barrie None Present N/A N/A N/A City of Barrie 61.91 LSRCA Whiskey Creek No No Yes 5.5 Provincial Plan Specific Features 5.4 Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest The ORMCP, Greenbelt Plan and LSPP each have specific vegetation communities that are significant within An ANSI is an official designation made by the Government of Ontario that is applied to contiguous geographical their jurisdictions, or Plan Areas. Details regarding the presence and extent of these features within the BRCE regions that have significant ecological features that are representative locally, regionally, or provincially. There Project study area are provided in the following sections. are two distinct designations: Earth Science ANSIs, which exhibit unique geologic features (i.e., geomorphology), 5.5.1 Sand Barrens, Savannahs and Tallgrass Prairies in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan and Life Science ANSIs, which exhibit unique ecologic features (i.e., biodiversity). Within the ORMCP, KNHFs include sand barrens, savannahs and tallgrass prairies. None of these features were found within the BRCE Project study area.

27 Mile markers refer to the centre of the valley feature and may not correspond exactly with the associated watercourse 28 https://www.ontario.ca/page/land-information-ontario crossing.

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5.5.2 Sand Barrens, Savannahs, Tallgrass Prairies and Alvars in the Greenbelt Plan There are a number of SWH types that require detailed site investigation to identify micro-habitat features such Within the Greenbelt Plan, KNHFs include sand barrens, tallgrass prairies and alvars. None of these features as nests, hibernaculum, vegetation age classification or species-specific identification. Due to the site access were found within the BRCE Project study area. limitations within the study area, the following SWH types have potential to be within the study area but neither Candidate nor Confirmed Significant Habitats could be identified (a brief justification is also provided): 5.5.3 Natural Areas Abutting Lake Simcoe in the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan According to the LSPP Technical Guidance Document (MNRF, 2015b), natural areas abutting Lake Simcoe are • Snake Hibernaculum - requires identification of rock piles, stone fences, and crumbling foundations that were considered to be KNHFs. These areas are defined as any area of contiguous vegetation, a minimum of 1 ha in not visible from the ROW; size and wholly or partially within the 30 metre buffer zone of the Lake Simcoe Shoreline. • Rare Woodland Types - ELC only mapped to the Ecosite level due to site access restrictions, therefore rarity A cultural woodland (OC-288) was found immediately adjacent to Lake Simcoe, within the South Shore could not be confirmed; and Park/Allandale Station Park, located in the City of Barrie. A portion of the cultural woodland was found within 120 • Additional Rare Forest and Vegetation Types - ELC only mapped to the Ecosite level due to site access metres of the existing Barrie rail corridor. This site is located away from the rail corridor by Lakeshore Drive and restrictions, therefore, rarity could not be confirmed. will not be affected by any of the proposed upgrades to the rail infrastructure or the Allandale Waterfront GO Station. It is understood that this area of the parkland is proposed to be redeveloped as the Military Heritage Park. Candidate and Confirmed SWHs which were identified in the study area are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. A legend is provided at the end of Drawing NER-02, which lists each SWH type 5.6 Significant Wildlife Habitat and the associated ID. 5.6.1 Methodology Used to Identify Significant and Candidate Significant Habitats As previously noted, different criteria were applied throughout the corridor based on whether the feature in Determination of SWH is broadly categorized and described in the NHRM (MNR, 2010) and the SWHTG (MNR, question was located within Ecoregion 6E, 7E or the ORMCP Area. The criteria for SWH in Ecoregion 6E and 7E 2000). The four categories of SWH are identified as: are similar with only minor variations. As such, findings for these areas are presented together in Section 5.6.2 of 1. Habitats of seasonal concentrations of animals; this Report. Criteria relative to the ORMCP vary considerably and, as such, findings for SWH in the ORMCP Area are presented separately in Section 5.6.3. A full list of Candidate and Confirmed SWH outside of the ORM is 2. Rare vegetation communities or specialized habitat for wildlife; located in Appendix J, while SWH in the ORM is located in Appendix K of this Report. 3. Habitat of Species of Conservation Concern; and 5.6.2 Findings for Significant Wildlife Habitat in Ecoregions 7E and 6E Outside of the Oak Ridges 4. Animal Movement Corridors. Moraine Conservation Plan Area Details regarding Confirmed or Candidate SWH within the portions of the BRCE Project study area outside of the Detailed criteria for identifying SWH have been developed and are specific to each Ecoregion (see Figure 4-2) ORMCP Area that could be identified through site investigations and Geographic Information System (GIS) and some provincial Plan areas. In summary, the following guidance documents were used to identify SWH: analysis are provided in the following sections. Summaries are provided in Table 5-5 and Table 5-6 and a detailed • Within Ecoregion 7E: Significant Wildlife Habitat Criteria Schedules for Ecoregion 7E (MNRF, 2015b); inventory is provided in Appendix J of this Report.

• Within Ecoregion 6E: Significant Wildlife Habitat Criteria Schedules for Ecoregion 6E (MNRF, 2015b); and Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas (Terrestrial): This type of habitat includes cultural meadows and fields with waste grains that can be used as stopover feeding areas along migration routes. Fields must be flooded with • Within the ORMCP Area: Significant Wildlife Habitat Criteria Schedules for Ecoregion 6E (MNRF, 2015b) in sheet water during the spring. All fields in the study area are either systematically tile drained, drained with an combination with ORMCP Technical Paper 2: Significant Wildlife Habitat (Ontario, n.d.). extensive canal system (found in the Holland Marsh area) or comprised of sandy soils which would drain rapidly Each guidance document identifies criteria for identifying Candidate SWH (i.e., habitat which has the potential to and not hold standing water. Thus, this type of habitat is not present within the study area. be significant based on the vegetation present and other characteristics) and Confirmed SWH (i.e., habitat which Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Area (Aquatic): This type of habitat includes ponds, marshes, lakes, bays, is significant based on the species using the habitat). As noted in Section 3.2.4, site surveys to confirm the coastal inlets, and watercourses used during migration29. These habitats have an abundant food supply, including significance of features were only undertaken for amphibian breeding habitats (over the full study area) and for mostly aquatic invertebrates and vegetation in shallow water. All wetlands in the study area were reviewed. turtle overwintering and Blanding’s Turtle habitats (in the Phase One portion of the study area). In some instances, Stormwater ponds and wetlands with thick grass, shrub or tree cover with no open water component were not incidental observations were also used to confirm the significance of some habitat types. Most other habitat types considered to provide suitable habitat. Thirty-seven wetland Candidate Habitats and several stretches of the East were identified as Candidate only.

29 Sewage treatment ponds and stormwater ponds do not qualify as a SWH.

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Holland River were identified as summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

Shorebird Migratory Stopover Areas: Shorebirds require sand bars and seasonally flooded, muddy and un- vegetated shoreline habitats as stopover areas. Great Lakes coastal shorelines, including groynes and other forms of armour rock lakeshores can also provide important habitat. Based on the background information review and completion of the noted field investigations, no suitable areas were identified within the study area.

Raptor Wintering Areas: The habitat provides a combination of fields and woodlands that provide roosting, foraging and resting habitats for wintering raptors. Raptor wintering sites (hawk/owl) need to be at least 20 ha in size with a combination of forest and open country. Open country areas can be meadows or idle/fallow or lightly grazed field/meadow and must be at least 15 ha in size. There were 10 contiguous raptor wintering area complexes that met the size criteria above; these complexes comprised 43 habitats as summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) winter in forested areas adjacent to large water bodies. In the study area, the only water bodies of sufficient size are Lake Simcoe and the West Holland River at Mile 40.95. No forest communities were presented adjacent to these water bodies within the study area.

Bat Hibernacula: Bats often hibernate in caves, abandoned mines and karst. A review of the Renewable Energy Atlas30,, Abandoned Mines Information System31, and karst mapping available through LIO32 did not reveal the presence of any suitable features within the study area. As such, this type of habitat is not present within the study area.

Bat Maternity Colonies: With four Endangered bat species in Ontario, the assessment of potential Bat Maternity Colony Habitat is of critical importance. Maternity colonies are typically found in peeling bark and tree cavities, though tree-borne lichen and persistent dead leaves can be utilized for this purpose as well. Mixed or deciduous forests with at least 21 snags/cavity trees per hectare are preferred. Any forest and treed swamp communities were considered to be Candidate Habitat for bat maternity colonies. Further details are presented in Section 5.8 of this Report.

Bat Migratory Stopover Areas: Only one Bat Migratory Stopover Area has been identified in the province. It is located in the Long Point area well beyond the Project study area. Thus, this SWH type is not relevant to the BRCE Project.

30 http://www.giscoeapp.lrc.gov.on.ca/REA/Renewable.html?site=REA&viewer=REA&locale=en-US 32 https://www.ontario.ca/page/land-information-ontario 31 http://www.mndm.gov.on.ca/en/mines-and-minerals/applications/ogsearth/abandoned-mines

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Table 5-5: Number of Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitats in Ecoregions 7E and 6E Outside of the Oak Ridges Moraine1

ng ng

reas

Municipality

Successional Bird Bird Successional

Nesting Bird Breeding Breeding Bird Nesting Breedi Bird Nesting Breeding Bird Nesting

- - -

Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Staging and Stopover Waterfowl (Terrestrial) Areas Staging and Stopover Waterfowl (Aquatic) Areas Stopover Migratory Shorebird Areas Areas Wintering Raptor Hibernacula Bat Areas Stopover BatMigratory Areas Wintering Turtle Site (After Area Wintering Turtle Investigations) Hibernaculum Reptile Colonially Cliff) and (Bank Habitat Colonially (Tree/Shrub) Habitat Colonially (Ground) Habitat Area Stopover Butterfly Migratory Area Stopover Migratory Landbird Yarding and Wintering Deer Slopes Talus and Cliffs Barren Sand Alvar Savannah Prairie Tallgrass A Nesting Waterfowl Habitat Nesting Raptor Woodland Areas Nesting Turtle Habitat Breeding Amphibian (Woodland) Habitat Breeding Amphibian (Wetland) Breeding Sensitive Area Woodland Habitat Bird Habitat Bird Breeding Marsh Bird Breeding Country Open Habitat Shrub/Early Habitat Breeding City of 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Toronto City of 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 1 4 0 0 Vaughan Township of 0 4 0 0 0 0 7 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 5 3 4 0 0 King Town of 0 3 0 3.5 0 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 2 0 1.5 Aurora Town of 0 6 0 7.5 0 0 17.5 17.5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 13 0 13 0 9 Newmarket Town of East 0 7 0 10 0 0 14.5 14.5 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 12 0 8 0 2.5 Gwillimbury Town of Bradford 0 5 0 28 0 0 12 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 32 0 0 0 0 0 0 5.5 0 11.5 12 9.5 8 0 9 West Gwillimbury Town of 0 16 0 8 0 0 29 29 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.5 0 52.5 30 11.5 10 0 9 Innisfil City of 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 1 0 3 Barrie TOTAL 0 44 0 57 0 0 90 87 0 0 0 0 0 0 56 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 96 84 25 50 0 35

1 Habitats located partially in two municipalities were counted as one half for each respective municipality.

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Table 5-6: Number of Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitats in Ecoregions 7E and 6E Outside of the Colonially-Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat (Ground): This type of habitat includes rocky islands or peninsulas Oak Ridges Moraine1 adjacent to a lake or large river. No such suitable conditions were found within the study area.

Bald Eagle and Osprey Amphibian Amphibian Migratory Butterfly Stopover Areas: Migratory butterfly stopover areas are a minimum of 10 ha in size with a Terrestrial Seeps and Municipality Nesting, Foraging and Breeding Habitat Breeding Habitat combination of field and forest habitat present, and located within five km of Lake Erie or Lake Ontario. As no Crayfish Springs Perching Habitat (Woodland) (Wetland) suitable habitat were identified within five km of Lake Ontario, this type of habitat is not present within the study City of Toronto 0 0 0 0 0 area. City of Vaughan 0 0 0 1 0 Landbird Migratory Stopover Areas: Landbird Migratory Stopover Areas include woodlots greater than 5 ha in Township of King 1 0 0 0 0 size and within five km of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. If woodlands are rare in an area of shoreline; woodland Town of Aurora 0 0.5 0 0 0 fragments two to five ha can be considered for this habitat. It is noted that no suitable woodlands were identified Town of in close proximity to Lake Ontario within the study area. 7 0.5 0 0 0 Newmarket Deer Wintering and Yarding Areas: According to the SWHTG (MNR, 2000), winter deer yards consist of a core Town of East 9 0 0 0 0 area of mainly coniferous trees with a canopy cover of more than 60%. In severe winters, deer are confined to Gwillimbury the core part of the yard (Stratum 1). In mild winters, they may be found in loose aggregations in and around the Town of Bradford 3.5 0 0 0 0 core of the yard. This core area provides primarily shelter, ease of movement, and protection from predators. The West Gwillimbury land surrounding the core area is usually mixed or deciduous forest (Stratum 2). Deer tend to use the same yards Town of Innisfil 2.5 0 2 1 1 year after year and are not highly adaptable in moving to a new yard. Animals will often move long distances to City of Barrie 0 0 0 0 0 some deer yards. TOTAL 23 1 2 2 1 Deer Yarding Areas are identified by the MNRF. Two large areas were identified within the study area, which 1 Habitats located partially in two municipalities were counted as one half for each respective municipality. crossed the rail ROW in several locations. Deer Wintering and Yarding Areas are summarized in Appendix J and are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Turtle Wintering Areas: Turtle Wintering Areas are open water areas in which turtles can overwinter. Water has to be deep enough not to freeze and have soft mud substrates. Turtle Wintering Habitat can also include deep Rare Vegetation Communities: Rare vegetation communities include: rivers and streams. As noted previously, stormwater management ponds are not considered to be SWH. Ninety • Cliffs and Talus Slopes; (90) Candidate Habitats were identified. Site investigations were undertaken in the spring of 2016 to search for evidence of turtle nesting in Candidate Habitats in the Phase One portion of the study area (Mile 3.00 to Mile • Sand Barrens; 29.90). Three of the 90 sites were surveyed and no evidence of turtle nesting was found. The remaining 87 sites • Alvars; were located north of Mile 29.90 and were not surveyed. As such, they are identified as Candidate Habitats and are summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. • Old Growth Forests;

Reptile Hibernaculum: Reptile Hibernacula include small micro-habitat features such as rock piles, stone fences, • Savannahs; and crumbling foundations that could not be viewed from the rail ROW. This type of habitat could not be confirmed • Tallgrass Prairies; and present within the study area. Additional site investigations will be undertaken prior to Project construction. • Other Rare Vegetation Communities. Colonially-Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat (Bank and Cliff): This habitat includes sites with exposed soils, eroding banks and steep slopes. No significantly exposed, undercut or eroding banks were observed along any No cliffs, sand barrens, alvars, old growth forests, savannahs or tallgrass prairies were identified within the study of the watercourses in the study area and no other steep slopes or exposed soils were present. Thus, no suitable area. Other rare vegetation communities could not be identified as the ELC mapping of vegetation communities candidate sites were identified within the study area. was completed to the Ecosite level only.

Colonially-Nesting Bird Breeding Habitat (Tree/Shrub): This type of SWH includes heronries, characterized Waterfowl Nesting Areas: Waterfowl Nesting Areas include upland habitats adjacent to wetlands. These upland by large congregations of stick nests in live or dead standing trees in wetlands, lakes, islands or peninsulas. As areas must meet one of three criteria; they must be within 120 metres from a wetland larger than 0.5 ha, or within no large concentrations of stick nests were identified, there is no suitable habitat present within the study area. 120 metres of a wetland of any size that is within 120 metres itself of a wetland greater than 0.5 ha, or within 120 metres of a cluster of three wetlands of any size that are within 120 metres of each other. Upland areas must be

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Metrolinx - Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Natural Environment Report – August 8, 2017 at least 120 metres in width to provide protection from predators. Based on application of these criteria, 180 Turtle Nesting Habitat: Turtle Nesting Candidate Habitats were identified within the study area as summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing Habitat includes areas with exposed soils, NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. preferably sand or gravel adjacent to marshes, fens or bogs. The best nesting habitat for Bald Eagle and Osprey Nesting, Foraging and Perching Habitat: According to the SWHTG (MNR, 2000), turtles is close to water and away from roads several raptors in Ontario require specialized nesting habitat for their long-term survival. If the site remains and sites less prone to loss of eggs by undisturbed, they may continue to use the same nest or site in consecutive years. No Bald Eagle nests were predation from skunks, raccoons or other observed within the study area. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nest along lake shorelines as well as in wetlands animals. One nesting site for Snapping Turtle close to productive fishing waters and are often considered an indicator of good water quality. Shorelines of was identified within the existing gravel of the productive water bodies with numerous large conifers and/or deciduous trees and with extensive areas of shallow rail ROW. The nest had been disturbed by a water for fishing is prime nesting habitat for Ospreys. Trees used for perching and nesting are typically large and predator and eggs were not successfully sturdy, and provide birds with clear flight paths and good visibility. hatched, as shown in Photo 5-3. Further An Osprey nest was observed in the details regarding this species are provided BRCE Project study area at Mile 47.89 under Section 5.8. As nesting sites on road (see Photo 5-2 and Sheet 98 in embankments or shoulders are not considered Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix to be SWH, it is assumed that this also applies Photo 5-3: Predated turtle eggs near a disturbed nest A.2). The nest was confirmed active to rail ROWs. Thus, this nesting site is not (Mile 42.49) during the 2015 breeding bird surveys, SWH. No additional nesting sites were with an adult pair observed at the nest observed. site. This nest is located on the east Seeps and Springs: Seeps and Springs are small micro features at a site which were difficult to identify from side of the existing Barrie rail corridor, within the rail ROW. These features may be present in woodlots, wetlands, and in headwater areas. However, approximately 10 to 15 metres from the several were identified incidentally as part of the Aquatic Habitat Assessment and one location was identified as edge of the existing tracks. This Significant Habitat. This location was identified at the Upper Marsh Creek watercourse and related wetland (WE- Confirmed Habitat for Osprey nesting, 88), at Mile 47.88 north of the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury. The Confirmed SWH location for Seeps and foraging and perching habitat is shown Springs are shown in Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2. According to the MNRF Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Woodland): All forests with vernal pools and treed swamps are considered to be (2015), the nest site, and a Candidate Habitats for breeding amphibians. In total, 96 woodland or treed wetland areas were identified as recommended 300 metre buffer Candidate Habitat. Amphibian call surveys were undertaken within all suitable habitats. Confirmed Significant around the nesting site, is considered Photo 5-2: Osprey nest on a standing snag (Mile 47.89) Amphibian Breeding Habitat includes any woodlands with breeding of the following species with at least 20 SWH. individuals or two species with a Call Level Code of 3:

Woodland Raptor Nesting Habitat: In Ecoregion 7E, Candidate Woodland Raptor Nesting Habitat includes all • Gray Treefrog; natural forest communities or conifer plantations greater than 30 ha in size with more than four ha of interior • Spring Peeper; habitat. Interior habitat is identified as being at least 200 metres from an edge. In Ecoregion 6E, the criteria are slightly different and include all natural forest communities or conifer plantations greater than 30 ha in size with • Western Chorus Frog; or more than 10 ha of interior habitat. Again, interior habitat is identified as being at least 200 metres from an edge. • Wood Frog. Within the study area, only two suitable woodland communities were identified, as summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Two treed swamps in the Town of Innisfil were identified with suitable breeding levels based on the amphibian call surveys undertaken in the spring of 2015. The two Confirmed SWH locations for amphibians are summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02, provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

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Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetland): Candidate Habitat for wetland-breeding amphibians is defined as wetlands greater than 500 m2. These wetlands are typically isolated (more than 120 metres away from woodland sites). Based on this criterion, 84 Candidate wetlands were identified. However, only two wetlands met the criteria for significance based on the amphibian call survey findings. One was located in the provincially significant King- Vaughan Wetland Complex in the City of Vaughan and the other was in the provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Complex in the Town of Innisfil, as summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

Woodland Area-Sensitive Bird Breeding Habitat: This type of habitat includes large woodlands greater than 30 ha in size. In Ecoregion 7E, at least 4 ha of interior habitat is required, measured 200 metres from the forest edge. In Ecoregion 6E, there is no minimum area requirement for interior habitat. Eight woodlands were identified which meet the criteria, and are summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

Marsh Bird Breeding Habitat: Marsh Bird Breeding Habitat is considered to be any habitat associated with meadow marshes, shallow marshes, fens and bogs. No size requirements are included in the criteria. Based on the criteria, 49 suitable marsh habitats were identified in the study area, as summarized in Table J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

Open Country Bird Breeding Habitat: This type of habitat includes natural and cultural meadows as well as non-intensive agricultural fields. Habitats must be at least 30 ha in size to be considered a Candidate Habitat. Within the study area, several suitable fields and meadows were present but only cultural meadow (OC-20), found in the City of Vaughan was greater than 30 ha. Therefore, one Candidate Habitat for Open Country Bird Breeding was present, as shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

Shrub/Early Successional Bird Breeding Habitat: This type of habitat includes cultural thickets, cultural Photo 5-4: Terrestrial Crayfish chimney, species savannahs and cultural woodlands at least 10 ha in size. Based on the criteria, 14 suitable habitats were identified, unknown (Mile 31.50) as summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Amphibian Movement Corridors: Amphibian Movement Corridors are used by amphibians which breed in open Terrestrial Crayfish: During the amphibian site reconnaissance, Terrestrial Crayfish burrows were incidentally water wetlands away from summer foraging areas (i.e., Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetland)). Two wetland observed near watercourse crossings at one location. The crayfish chimneys (burrows) were observed during fish amphibian breeding habitats were found. and fish habitat studies and were found adjacent to Tannery Creek (Mile 31.50), as shown in Photo 5-4. According Significant Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetland) was identified in a meadow marsh in the City of Vaughan (Mile to the SWH Criteria Schedules (MNRF, 2015b), the presence of one or more individuals or their chimneys in 21.50). This wetland was located on the west side of the ROW adjacent to a forest community. No forest suitable meadow marsh, swamp, or moist terrestrial sites confirms these locations as a Candidate SWH. communities are present on the east side of the Barrie rail corridor in this area and amphibians would most likely Confirmed Terrestrial Crayfish Habitat is summarized in Appendix J and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in travel between the wetland and woodland, remaining on the west side of the ROW. Therefore, no Significant Appendix A.2 of this Report. Amphibian Movement Corridor crosses the ROW in this area.

The habitat associated with the provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Complex was located on the east side of the ROW and was directly connected to a larger open water wetland and large forest community (Mile 50.31). Amphibians likely move between these areas, all of which are on the east side of the Barrie rail corridor. There is another small wetland, also part of the provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Complex, on the opposite side of the corridor. This provides some additional marsh habitat. Significant amphibian breeding was not found in this wetland and it does not provide summer foraging habitat. As such, some amphibians may cross the corridor in this location to utilize this second wetland but there is no Significant Amphibian Movement Corridor crossing the ROW in this area. In summary, there are no Amphibian Movement Corridors located within the study area.

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Deer Movement Corridors (Ecoregion 6E Only): Deer Movement Corridors are used by deer in the spring and Bat Maternity Colonies: With four Endangered bat species in Ontario, the assessment of potential Bat Maternity fall to move to and from their wintering areas. As noted previously in this section, two Deer Wintering/Yarding Colony Habitat is of critical importance. Maternity colonies are typically found in peeling bark and tree cavities, Areas are present within the study area. Significant corridors are those which are at least 200 metres wide and though tree-borne lichen and persistent dead leaves can be utilized for this purpose as well. Mixed or deciduous are unbroken by roads. The Barrie rail corridor acts as a barrier, similar to a road. As such there are no Significant forests with at least 21 snags/cavity trees per hectare are preferred. Any forest and treed swamp communities Deer Movement Corridors that cross the rail ROW. Thus, this type of habitat is not present within the study area. were considered to be Candidate Habitat for Bat Maternity Colonies. Further details are presented in Section 5.8 of this Report. 5.6.3 Findings for Significant Wildlife Habitat in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area Within the ORMCP Area, Significant Wildlife Habitat was identified in portions of the study area separately as the Colonial Nesting Bird Habitat: Habitat includes sites with exposed soils, eroding banks and steep slopes. No criteria applied are different than in other regions. Some habitats are similar and could not be identified for the significantly exposed, undercut or eroding banks were observed along any of the watercourses in the study area purposes of this study due to site access limitations. These included: and no other steep slopes or exposed soils were present. One aggregate operation was present at Mile 18.80. Colonially-nesting birds may breed in the exposed aggregate piles; however this is not considered to provide • Colonial Nesting Bird Habitat; significant habitat. Habitat for colonially nesting ground and tree birds was also not found. Thus, no suitable • Snake Hibernaculum; candidate sites were identified.

• Rare Vegetation communities; Waterfowl Nesting Areas: Waterfowl Nesting Areas include upland habitats adjacent to wetlands. Wetlands must be at least 0.5 ha in size and upland areas must be at least 120 metres in width to provide protection from • Raptor Nesting Sites; predators. Twenty-two Candidate Habitats were identified, as summarized in Appendix K, and shown in Drawing • Raptor Nesting Associated with Woodland Habitats; NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

• Turtle Nesting and Overwintering Areas; Snake Hibernaculum: Snake Hibernacula include small micro-habitat features such as rock piles, stone fences and crumbling foundations that could not be viewed from the rail ROW. The presence of this type of habitat could • Seeps and Springs; and not be confirmed within the study area. Additional site investigations will be undertaken prior to Project • Animal and Plant Movement Corridors All species. construction.

The following is a summary of Candidate and Confirmed SWH in the ORMCP Area. Findings are summarized in Rare Vegetation Communities: In the ORMCP Area, rare vegetation communities include a variety of Oak, Table 5-7 and Table 5-8 and additional details can be found within Appendix K of this Report. All Candidate and Hickory and Sugar Maple-Black Maple dominated forests. The presence of these forest types could not be Confirmed Habitats are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. confirmed as ELC mapping of vegetation communities was completed to the Ecosite level only. Based on observations from within the existing ROW, these communities do not appear to be present within the study area. Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas (Terrestrial): Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas are used by waterfowl to feed and rest along annual migration routes. Seasonally flooded fields are considered to provide Amphibian Woodland Breeding Habitat (Vernal Pools): Amphibians that rely on vernal pools within woodland significant habitat. In the study area there was several cultural meadow communities. All were underlain by well habitats for breeding are protected in the ORMCP Area. Even very small vernal pools that form annually in and drained soils that were unlikely to support seasonal flooding. As no records of this type of habitat were found, this around woodlands can serve as significant breeding habitat for some amphibians. Thirty-four Candidate type of habitat is not present within the ORMCP Area portion of the study area. Amphibian Woodland Breeding Habitats (Vernal) were identified in the study area. Based on surveys conducted, only one was found to be significant. This habitat was located within a deciduous swamp in the Township of King Shorebird Migratory Stopover Areas: Shorebirds require sand bars and seasonally flooded, muddy and un- (Mile 24.01). vegetated shoreline habitats as stopover areas. Great Lakes coastal shorelines, including groynes and other forms of armour rock lakeshores can also provide important habitat. Based on the background information review and completion of the noted field investigations, no suitable areas were identified within the study area.

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Table 5-7: Number of Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitats in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Area

Wintering Areas Wintering

owl Stopover and Staging Staging and Stopover owl

tailed Deer Habitat Deer tailed

phibian Breeding Habitat Habitat Breeding phibian

Municipality Staging and Stopover Waterfowl (Terrestrial) Areas Raptor Habitat Bird Nesting Colonial Area Nesting Waterfowl Hibernaculum Snake Forest Types/Rare Woodland Rare Types Breeding Woodland Amphibian Pools) (Vernal Habitat Thrasher Brown Sparrow Field Habitat Meadowlark Western Sandpiper Upland Waterf (Aquatic) Areas White Sites Nesting Heron Blue Great Sites Nesting Wren Sedge Sites Nesting Wren Marsh Bird Breeding Forest Interior Habitats Bird Breeding Country Open Habitats Habitats Bird Breeding Wetland Am (Wetland) Lakes, (Wetland, Nesting Raptor Rivers) & Ponds (Woodlands) Nesting Raptor and Habitat Nesting Turtle Areas Overwintering Investigations) Site (After TNHOWA Habitat Bullfrog Habitat Grouse Ruffed City of Toronto 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 City of Vaughan 0 0 0 4 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 2 Township of King 0 0 0 18 0 0 15 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 6 6 0 1 6 6 0 5 6 2 6 6 Town of Aurora 0 1 0 0 0 0 12 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 4 2 2 0 4 2 0 2 2 Town of Newmarket 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Town of East 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gwillimbury Town of Bradford 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 West Gwillimbury Town of Innisfil 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 City of Barrie 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 0 1 0 22 0 0 34 0 0 2 0 4 0 0 8 8 0 5 8 8 0 12 8 2 8 10

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Table 5-8: Number of Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitats in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Habitats were identified, as summarized in Appendix K, and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 Plan Area of this Report.

Terrestrial Amphibian Breeding Habitat Amphibian Breeding Habitat Wetland Breeding Bird Species Habitat: Habitat for wetland breeding birds includes all meadow marsh and Municipality Crayfish (Vernal Pools) (Wetland) shallow marsh habitats. Eight Candidate Habitats were identified as summarized in Appendix K, and shown in City of Toronto 0 0 0 Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. City of Vaughan 0 0 0 Terrestrial Crayfish: During the amphibian site reconnaissance, Terrestrial Crayfish burrows were incidentally Township of King 1 1 1 observed near watercourse crossings at one location. The crayfish chimneys (burrows) were observed during fish Town of Aurora 0 0 0 and fish habitat studies and were found along a tributary of the East Humber River at Mile 25.30. According to the SWH Criteria Schedules (MNRF, 2015b), the presence of one or more individuals or their chimneys in suitable Town of Newmarket 0 0 0 meadow marsh, swamp, or moist terrestrial sites confirms these locations as a Candidate SWH. Confirmed Town of East Gwillimbury 0 0 0 Terrestrial Crayfish Habitat is summarized in Appendix K, and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix Town of Bradford West 0 0 0 A.2 of this Report. Gwillimbury Town of Innisfil 0 0 0 Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetlands): City of Barrie 0 0 0 Eight Candidate wetlands were identified. Based on the results of amphibian call surveys only one was inhabited by sufficient numbers of TOTAL 1 1 1 amphibians to meet the criteria for Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas (Aquatic): Stopover and Staging Areas are important to waterfowl significance. This wetland was located in during spring and fall migration, as individuals periodically require habitat that will offer food and protection from the provincially significant King-Vaughan predators and adverse weather. The ORMCP defines waterfowl stopover and staging areas as ponds, marshes, Wetland Complex in the Township of King lakes, and watercourses with abundant sources of food. Four Candidate Habitats were identified, as summarized at Mile 22.39 (See Photo 5-5). in Appendix K, and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Raptors Associated with Wetlands, Deer Wintering Areas: Deer Wintering Areas are identified by the MNRF. Based on input from the Ministry, no Lake, Ponds and Rivers: Some raptors Deer Wintering Areas are present within the ORMCP Area portion of the study area. nest in forested sites adjacent to large Colonial Bird Nesting Sites: These sites include nesting habitat for Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias), Sedge water bodies (typically greater than 10 ha Wren (Cistothorus platensis) and Marsh Wren (Cistothorus palustris). No Great Blue Heron colonies were in size). No suitably sized water bodies observed within the study area. Sedge Wren and Marsh Wren both nest in meadow marsh habitat, of which eight were present within the study area. Lake Candidate sites were identified as summarized in Appendix K, and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Simcoe is close to the study area in the Appendix A.2 of this Report. City of Barrie; however no suitable forest communities were present adjacent to it. Rare Vegetation Communities: Rare Vegetation Communities in Ontario are described in a document entitled Therefore, this type of habitat is not “Natural Heritage Resources of Ontario: Vegetation Communities of Southern Ontario” (Bakowsky, 1996). The present within the study area. Photo 5-5: Candidate Amphibian Breeding Habitat presence of any rare communities could not be confirmed as ELC mapping of vegetation communities was only (Wetlands) (Mile 26.55) carried out to the Ecosite level due to site access restrictions. Additional site investigations will be undertaken Raptor Nesting Associated with prior to Project construction. Woodland Habitat: A variety of raptors nest in mature conifer, deciduous or mixed forests. Candidate Habitat includes forest stands greater than 10 ha Interior Forest Breeding Bird Species: This type of habitat includes forests at 30 ha in size with at least 10 ha in size. It is noted that 12 woodlands met the criteria and therefore provide Candidate Habitat for woodland of interior forest measured 100 metres from an edge. No woodland in the ORMCP Area portion of the study area raptors, as summarized in Appendix K, and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. met this criterion. As such, this type of habitat is not present within the study area. Turtle Nesting and Overwintering Areas: Turtles nest in sand and gravel areas. No natural sandy beaches, Open Country Breeding Bird Species: In the ORMCP Area this type of habitat includes large grassland and bars or open gravel features were observed. As previously noted, one Snapping Turtle nest was observed nesting abandoned or fallow fields, mature hay fields or pasturelands that are at least 10 ha in size. Only five Candidate in the gravel bed of the existing rail ROW. It had been destroyed by a predator and egg laying was unsuccessful.

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This area is human-made, maintained on a frequent basis and characterized by regular train service. As such, Animal Movement Corridors: Animal Movement Corridors are identified subsequent to other related habitats. the gravel ROW is not considered to provide SWH. No Deer Wintering Areas are present within the ORMCP Area, thus no Deer Movement Corridors are present within the study area. Overwintering areas are permanent water bodies, wetlands and bogs in which turtles can spend the winter. Eight wetlands were identified within the ORMCP Area portion of the study area which could provide suitable habitat. One Significant Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetland) was identified. This habitat was found within the shallow Though six of the wetlands were surveyed for evidence of turtle nesting, no evidence was found. Two of the marsh located between Keele Street and the rail corridor just south of the King City GO Station. In order to reach wetlands were located north of the Aurora GO Station and were not surveyed. Thus, these two sites are identified summer foraging habitat, amphibians would need to travel east across Keele Street or west across the rail ROW. as Candidate SWH as summarized in Appendix K, and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of No watercourses or culverts exist in either direction to allow safe passage. As these routes are currently broken this Report. by well-travelled roads and the rail ROW, the corridors are not significant.

Seeps and Springs: Seeps and Springs provide habitat for numerous species, including Wild Turkey and White- 5.7 Special Concern and Rare Wildlife Species tailed Deer, which use these features for feeding and drinking, particularly in the winter. As they are small micro The term “Species of Conservation Concern” (SCC) is defined under the NHRM (MNR, 2010) as follows: features, they were difficult to identify from within the rail ROW. It is assumed that any Seeps or Springs which • The habitat of species that are rare or substantially declining, or have a high percentage of their global may be present would not be well-used by wildlife due to the noise of existing rail traffic. population in Ontario; Species of Conservation Concern Specific to the ORMCP Area: Several species which are known to be rare • Special Concern species identified under the ESA, 2007 on the SARO List, which were formally referred to within the ORMCP Area are included in this habitat type. Species include: as “vulnerable” in the SWHTG (MNR, 2000); and • Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum); • Species identified as nationally Endangered or Threatened by the Committee on the Status of Endangered • Bobolink; Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), which are not protected in regulation under Ontario’s ESA, 2007.

• Eastern Meadowlark; The habitats of SCC are protected both inside and outside of the ORMCP Area. The definition for SCC excludes habitats of Endangered and Threatened Species covered under the PPS (2014), specifically, Policy 2.1.3(a). • Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla); These are discussed separately in Section 5.8 of this Report. • Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta); and 5.7.1 Methodology Used to Identify Candidate and Confirmed Habitats • Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda). Species listed as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007 with potential to be present within the study area were identified based on correspondence with the MNRF. Additional rare species were identified through a search of The ORMCP Technical Paper which lists these species was written before Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark NHIC records. In total, 17 SCC were identified as potentially being present within the study area, including: were listed as Threatened under the ESA. These species are addressed in Section 5.8 of this Report. • Birds: Brown Thrasher and Field Sparrow require shrubby thickets greater than 10 ha in size. None are present within the ORMCP Area portion of the study area.  Black Tern (Chlidonias niger), Special Concern under ESA, 2007;

Western Meadowlark require grassy fields, pasture or hay fields greater than 10 ha. Only two suitable habitats  Canada Warbler (Cardellina canadensis), Special Concern under ESA, 2007; were identified. Both fields are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.  Common Nighthawk, Special Concern under ESA, 2007; Upland Sandpiper requires grassy fields, pasture of hay fields greater than 25 ha. None are present within the  Eastern Wood-peewee, Special Concern under ESA, 2007; ORMCP Area portion of the study area.  Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera), Special Concern under ESA, 2007; Bullfrog Habitat: Candidate Bullfrog Habitat coincides with the Candidate Amphibian Woodland Breeding Habitat (Wetlands) previously discussed. No Bullfrogs were heard calling during any amphibian call surveys in the study  Grasshopper Sparrow, Special Concern as recommended by COSEWIC; area, including all wetlands in the ORMCP Area. Therefore, Significant Habitat for Bullfrogs is not present within  Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), Special Concern under ESA, 2007; the study area.  Red-headed Woodpecker (Melenerpes erythrocephalus), Special Concern under ESA, 2007; Ruffed Grouse: Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus) require large forest areas of at least 25 ha. It is noted that 10 suitably sized woodlands were identified within the study area, as summarized in Appendix K and shown on  Wood Thrush, Special Concern under ESA, 2007; and Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

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 Yellow Rail (Coturnicops noveboracensis), Special Concern under ESA, 2007. Table 5-8: Number of Candidate Significant Habitats for Species of Conservation Concern1

• Insects:

 Amber-winged Spreadwing (Lestes eurinus), S3 ;

Aeshna canadensis

 Green-striped Darner ( ), S3;

 Lilypad Clubtail (Arigomphus furcifer), S3; and Warbler winged

winged winged

striped Darner striped

- headed headed

 Painted Skimmer (Libellula semifasciata), S2. -

Eastern Wood Peewee Wood Eastern Warbler Canada Thrush Wood Sparrow Grasshopper Red Woodpecker Golden Clubtail Lilypad Skimmer Painted Amber Spreadwing Green Turtle Snapping Goosefoot Fogg's Frog Chorus Western • Plants: Municipality City of Toronto 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0  Fogg’s Goosefoot (Chenopodium foggii), S2. City of Vaughan 11.5 0 7 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 6 • Reptiles and Amphibians: Township of King 37.5 0 4 0 0 0 2 1 1 3 7 0 18

 Snapping Turtle, Special Concern under ESA, 2007; and Town of Aurora 20 0 6.5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4.5 0 8 Town of Newmarket 21 0 3.5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 17 0 21  Western Chorus Frog, Threatened under the federal SARA. Town of East 24 22 12 7 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 14.5 0 Habitat descriptions for each species were developed and are provided in Appendix L.1 of this Report. Each Gwillimbury description listed habitat characteristics required for key life cycle functions for each species (i.e., breeding, Town of Bradford 23.5 28 5.5 10 0 45 45 0 0 0 1 14 0 nesting or hibernation habitat). Vegetation community mapping was used to identify Candidate Habitats based West Gwillimbury on the habitat descriptions. With the exception of Snapping Turtle habitat which corresponds with Turtle Town of Innisfil 73 16.5 11 0 58 58 5 0 1 0 30 0 82.5 Overwintering Areas, and Chorus Frog habitat which corresponds to Amphibian Breeding habitats, both described City of Barrie 18 0 3 0 27 27 0 0 0 0 3 1 5 in Section 5.6, no site surveys were conducted to confirm the presence and populations of SCC within Candidate TOTAL 231 34 53 0 130 130 9 3 3 8 90 1 188 Habitats. As all Candidate Habitats were assumed to be Significant for the effects assessment portion of this 1 study, no further site investigations are planned. Habitats located partially in two municipalities were counted as one half for each respective municipality.

5.7.2 Findings Eastern Wood-pewee: This species is designated as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007 and COSEWIC. Of the 17 species originally identified as potentially being present, Candidate Habitat was only found for 13 Currently, this species has no federal schedule or status under SARA. Eastern Wood-pewee typically breeds in species. The habitat screening is presented in Appendix L.1 of this Report. Significant Habitats were identified for deciduous and mixed woods. Its preference is for open space near the nest provided by forest edges, clearings, three species. Findings are summarized in the following paragraphs and in Table 5-8. Locations of Significant roadways, and water. While it does not necessarily require large wooded tracts, it occurs less frequently in and Candidate Significant Habitats are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. woodlots with surrounding development than in those without nearby development (Cadman, M.D. et al., 2007). Detailed information regarding each habitat is presented in Appendix L.2 of this Report. Fourteen males were recorded as “possible breeders” in the study area during the 2015 breeding bird surveys. Edge habitat for this species is present where the study limits encroach into forested communities. However, the

majority of suitable habitat is present beyond the study limits on adjacent lands. Candidate Habitat for this species is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

Canada Warbler: This species is designated as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007, and is designated as Threatened under COSEWIC. The Canada Warbler is protected as a Schedule 1 Threatened Species under SARA. It typically nests in moist coniferous-deciduous forests with a well-developed understory; this species favours low-lying areas such as Cedar woods or Alder swamps. Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the Canada Warbler, it is assumed that there is moderate nesting potential for this species within the study

33 S-Ranks are a North American ranking system developed by NatureServe used to rank the rarity of species at a state or species with stable and sustainable population levels. Additional details regarding this ranking system can be found in provincial level. S-Ranks of 1-3 are used for species which are considered to be rare while ranks of S 4-5 are given to Appendix L of this Report.

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area and in adjacent lands. Candidate Habitat for this species is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix and the provincially significant Little Cedar Point Wetland Complex. Candidate Habitat for this species is shown A.2 of this Report. in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report.

Wood Thrush: This species is designated as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007. It is also designated as Painted Skimmer: This species is designated as S2 (imperiled) by the MNRF, but has no provincial or federal Threatened under COSEWIC. Currently, this species has no federal schedule or status under SARA. Wood schedule or status under SARO or SARA, respectively. The Painted Skimmer requires slow-moving streams and Thrush typically breed in woodlands with the presence of tall trees and a thick understory, ranging from small and small rivers with pools and riffles within wooded areas. Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the isolated to large and contiguous (Cadman, M.D. et al., 2007). One male was recorded as a “possible breeder” in Painted Skimmer, it is assumed that there is low occurrence potential in the study area and adjacent lands. the study area. Edge habitat for this species is present within the study area where the study limits encroach into Historical NHIC records exist within one km of the study area circa late 1950’s from Lake Simcoe, and a number forest communities. However, the majority of suitable habitat is present beyond the study limits on adjacent lands. of provincially significant wetlands including the Wilson Creek Marsh, Lovers Creek Swamp, St. Paul’s Swamp, Candidate Habitat for this species is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. and Little Cedar Point Wetland Complex. Candidate Habitat for this species is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Grasshopper Sparrow: This species is designated as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007. This species prefers drier, sparsely vegetated grasslands, particularly rough or unimproved pastures, at least 30 ha in size that Amber-winged Spread-wing: This species is designated as S3 (vulnerable) by the MNRF, but has no provincial support varying amounts of forb and shrub growth. It occasionally uses cultivated hay fields and cereal crops. or federal schedule or status under SARO or SARA, respectively. The main habitat requirement for this species One male was recorded as a “possible breeder” within the study area. Edge habitat for this species is present is permanent standing water with at least some emergent vegetation. Amber-winged Spread-wing can be found within the study area where the study limits encroach into adjacent grassland communities. However, the majority in anything from bog lakes to pasture ponds, but typically favour wetlands devoid of fish. Given the habitat of suitable habitat is present beyond the study limits on adjacent lands. Candidate Habitat for this species is requirements and preferences of the Amber-winged Spread-wing, it is assumed that there is moderate nesting shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. potential for this species within the study area and in adjacent lands. Historical NHIC records exist within one km of the study area around the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex, the Scanlon Creek Red-headed Woodpecker: This species is designated as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007, and designated Conservation Area, the provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh, and the provincially significant Little Cedar as Threatened under COSEWIC. The Red-headed Woodpecker is protected as a Schedule 1 Threatened Species Point Wetland Complex, from the late 1970s. Candidate Habitat for this species is shown in Drawing NER-02 under SARA. It breeds in open woodland and woodland edges, especially Oak savannah and riparian forest. provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Acceptable nesting conditions can occur in parks, golf courses, cemeteries, private woodlands, etc. Existence of large, dead, weathered trees or live trees with large dead branches are important characteristics of Red-headed Green-striped Darner: This species is designated as S3 (vulnerable) by the MNRF, but has no provincial or Woodpecker habitat. Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the Red-headed Woodpecker, it is federal schedule or status under SARO or SARA, respectively. This species requires forested ponds and lakes assumed that there is moderate nesting potential for this species within the study area and in adjacent lands. with abundant aquatic vegetation. Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the Green-striped Darner, NHIC records exist within one km of the study area around the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland it is assumed that there is low to no potential for this species within the study area and in adjacent lands. NHIC Complex and the provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Wetland circa 2002. Candidate Habitat for this records of this species are likely from the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex, and the species is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. provincially significant Little Cedar Point Wetland Complex. Candidate Habitat for this species is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Golden-winged Warbler: This species is designated as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007, and is designated as Threatened under COSEWIC. The Golden-winged Warbler is protected as a Schedule 1 Threatened Species Snapping Turtle: This species is designated as Special Concern under the ESA, 2007. This species generally under SARA. It prefers successional scrub habitats surrounded by forests that are used for foraging and as song inhabits shallow waters where they can hide under the soft mud and leaf litter. Nesting sites usually occur on posts. Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the Golden-winged Warbler, it is assumed that there is gravelly or sandy areas along streams. Snapping Turtles often take advantage of human-made structures for nest moderate nesting potential for this species within the study area and in adjacent lands. Candidate Habitat for this sites, including roads (especially gravel shoulders), dams and aggregate pits34. species is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. Candidate Habitats correspond with the Turtle Overwintering Areas described in Section 5.6 of this Report. Site Lilypad Clubtail: This species is designated as S3 (vulnerable) by the MNRF, but has no provincial or federal investigations were undertaken at Candidate Turtle Overwintering Areas in the Phase One portion of the study schedule or status under SARO or SARA, respectively. The Lilypad Clubtail requires lakes, ponds (including bog area (Mile 3.00 to Mile 29.90). Though no Snapping Turtles were found, through incidental observations, three ponds), or slow-moving streams, typically with abundant aquatic vegetation. Given the habitat requirements and dead Snapping Turtles were recorded in the study area. In addition, one nest was found on the raised railway preferences of the Lilypad Clubtail, it is assumed that there is moderate nesting potential for this species within bed within the corridor. As noted in Section 5.6, this type of habitat is not considered Significant. The nest had the study area and in adjacent lands. Historical NHIC records exist within one km of the study area around the been destroyed by a predator and eggs were not successfully hatched. Candidate Habitat for this species in the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex, the provincially significant Wilson Creek Marsh Complex,

34 http://www.ontario.ca/page/snapping-turtle

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Future Phase(s) portion of the study area, which were not surveyed, is shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in 5.8 Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species Appendix A.2 of this Report. A species is classified as “Endangered” under the ESA, 2007 if it lives in the wild in Ontario but is facing imminent extinction or extirpation. A species is classified as “Threatened” under the ESA, 2007 if it is likely to become Fogg’s Goosefoot: This species is designated as S2 (imperiled) by the MNRF, but has no provincial or federal endangered if steps are not taken to address factors threatening to lead to its extinction or extirpation. Habitats schedule or status under SARO or SARA, respectively. Fogg’s Goosefoot is typically found in rocky woods, and of Endangered and Threatened Species are protected under the ESA, 2007 and various associated species- as such is more common on morainal landscapes and, in Ontario, along the Niagara escarpment. Given the specific habitat regulations. In general, habitats protected include lands which are: habitat requirements and preferences of Fogg’s Goosefoot, it is assumed that there is high occurrence potential within the study area and adjacent lands. There are historical NHIC records within one km or the study area from • Necessary for the maintenance, survival and/or recovery of naturally occurring or reintroduced populations; Lake Simcoe and the provincially significant Lovers Creek Swamp areas. Candidate Habitat for this species is and shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report. • Occupied or habitually occupied by the species during all or any part(s) of its life cycle. Western Chorus Frog: Western Chorus Frog inhabits two separate population units in Ontario: 5.8.1 Methodology Used to Identify Significant and Candidate Significant Habitats • The Carolinian population: considered to be stable and secure; and Species listed as Endangered or Threatened under the ESA, 2007 with potential to be present within the study area were identified based on correspondence with the MNRF. In total, 16 Endangered and Threatened Species • The Great Lakes/St. Lawrence - Canadian Shield population: listed as Threatened under SARA. were identified as potentially being present within the study area, including: The Great Lakes/St. Lawrence - Canadian Shield area wholly encompasses the BRCE Project study area. • Birds: Accordingly, any Western Chorus Frog and respective habitat identified during the amphibian monitoring survey was considered to be part of this population.  Bank Swallow, Threatened;

This species inhabits forest openings around woodland ponds but can also be found in or near damp meadows,  Barn Swallow, Threatened; marshes, bottomland swamps, and temporary ponds in open country, or even urban areas. It breeds in almost  Bobolink, Threatened; any fishless pond with at least 10 cm of water, including quiet, shallow, temporary waterbodies with vegetation that is submerged or protruding from the water, especially in rain-flooded meadows and ditches, and in temporary  Chimney Swift, Threatened; ponds on floodplains35. Field investigations were completed in conjunction with the Amphibian Breeding Habitat  Eastern Meadowlark, Threatened; (Woodland, Wetland and Vernal Pools) described in Section 5.6 of this Report. Western Chorus Frog was found to be present within eight wetlands in the study area. These wetlands were identified as Significant Chorus Frog  Eastern Whip-poor-will (Anthrostomus vociferus), Threatened; Habitat and are summarized in Table 5-9 and are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this  King Rail (Ixobrychus exilis), Endangered; and Report. Table 5-9: Number of Significant Habitats for Species of Conservation Concern (Western Chorus Frog)  Least Bittern (Rallus elegans), Threatened. Municipality Chorus Frog • Mammals: City of Toronto 0  Little Brown Myotis, Endangered; City of Vaughan 0  Northern Myotis, Endangered; and Township of King 0 Town of Aurora 1  Tri-colored Bat, Endangered. Town of Newmarket 0 • Reptiles and Amphibians: Town of East Gwillimbury 3  Blanding’s Turtle, Threatened. Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury 1 Town of Innisfil 3 • Plants: City of Barrie 0  Butternut (Juglans cinera), Endangered; and TOTAL 8

35 Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas, 2015.

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 A Sensitive Species, Endangered (not identified further at the request of the MNRF due to the sensitive Table 5-10: Number of Candidate Significant and Significant Habitats for Endangered 1 nature of this plant species.) and Threatened Species

• Fish:

 Redside Dace, Endangered; and

colored colored

will

 American Eel (Anguilla rostrata), Endangered.

poor

Habitat descriptions for each species were developed and are provided in Appendix M of this Report. Habitat

descriptions for each species were derived from: 3

• General Habitat Descriptions36 developed under the ESA, 2007, where available;

• Provincial and federal Recovery Strategies;

Municipality BankSwallow BarnSwallow Bobolink Swift Chimney Meadowlark Eastern Whip Eastern Rail King Bittern Least Myotis, Brown Little Tri Myotis, Northern Bat Turtle Blanding's Butternut Species Sensitive Dace Redside Eel American

• COSEWIC and COSSARO Assessment and Status Reports; or Several suitable The Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Ontario (2001-2005). • City of Toronto 0 0 1 chimneys 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 Each description listed habitat characteristics required for key life cycle functions for each species (i.e., breeding, may be present nesting or hibernation habitat). Vegetation community mapping was used to identify Candidate Habitats based on the habitat descriptions. City of Vaughan 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 2.5 0 0 1 0 Barn Swallow was the subject of specific habitat searches to confirm its presence (i.e., confirm the Significance Township of King 0 0.5 1 0 4 1 3 3 23 15.5 11 0 2 0 of Candidate Habitat). For this species, all suitable culverts were observed to identify nesting sites. 4. Town of Aurora 0 0 2.5 0 0 0 0 13.5 4 4 0 0 0 5 As Significant Habitat has been mapped by the MNRF for Redside Dace, no site investigations were undertaken Town of Newmarket 0 1 1 0 5 0 0 0 8.5 12 3 0 0 0 as part of this study. Town of East 6. 0 0 1.5 0 4 9 9 16 14 6 0 0 0 Butternut trees were confirmed to be present within the study area (including the existing rail ROW) through Gwillimbury 5 incidental observations; however, a detailed inventory was not completed. Additional site investigations will be Town of Bradford 0 0.5 3 0 8 5 12 12 25.5 22.5 7 0 0 0 undertaken prior to Project construction to complete a more thorough inventory and confirm those affected by West Gwillimbury construction. 1 Town of Innisfil 0 0 2 0 13 8 8 57.5 65.5 2 0 0 0 2 5.8.2 Findings City of Barrie 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 10 3 2 0 0 0 With the exception of American Eel and the sensitive species, Candidate Significant Habitats were identified for 4 each of the species listed. Details regarding these species are provided below. Significant and Candidate TOTAL 1 2 12 Unconfirmed 26 33 33 167 139 35 0 3 0 2 Significant Habitats are summarized in Table 5-10 and are shown on Drawing NER-02 in Appendix A.2 of this 1 Report as “SAR Habitat”. Habitats for each individual species have not been mapped due to the sensitivity of this Habitats located partially in two municipalities were counted as one half for each respective municipality. 2 information. Nesting habitats were confirmed during site investigations. 3 Butternut trees were identified. A Butternut Health Assessment (BHA) is required to confirm whether the trees are retainable. 4 Habitats are mapped by the MNRF and are known to be present.

36 A General Habitat Description is a technical document that provides greater clarity on the area of habitat protected for a species based on the general habitat definition found in the ESA, 2007.

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Bank Swallow: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened by moved into settled areas, favouring large, uncapped chimneys (Cadman, M.D. et al., 2007; COSEWIC 2007). As COSEWIC. Bank Swallow have no status under SARA. Bank Swallows prefer open habitats including, farmland, an aerial insectivore, it is often observed foraging over open areas of the landscape, particularly near water bodies lake/river shorelines, grasslands, and wetlands. As an aerial insectivore, it is often observed foraging over open such as rivers. Confirmed foraging habitat is present over open areas of the Project study area. Moderate to high areas of the landscape. They nest in exposed earthen banks along shorelines and in artificial sites such as sand potential nesting and roosting habitat is present within the study area and lands adjacent to the rail corridor at and gravel pits (Cadman, M.D. et al., 2007; Falconer, M. et al., 2016). Bank Swallow foraging habitat was specific locations south of Highway 401 where Chimney Swifts were observed foraging overhead in the vicinity confirmed over open areas in the BRCE Project study area. Potential nesting habitat may be present within the of a number of large chimney structures. According to the General Habitat Description for Chimney Swift, the study area at an aggregate operation where vertical, exposed soil piles are present. According to the General human-made nest/roost, or a natural nest/roost cavity and the area within 90 metres of the natural cavity is Habitat Description for Bank Swallow, the breeding colony is considered to be Category 1 habitat (least tolerant Category 1 habitat. Category 2 and 3 habitat does not apply to this species. to changes), while the area within 50 metres in front of the breeding colony bank face is Category 2 habitat Eastern Meadowlark: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened (moderately tolerant to changes), and lands within 500 metres of the outer edge of the breeding colony that is by COSEWIC. Eastern Meadowlark have no status under SARA. This species is an obligate grassland species suitable foraging habitat is considered to be Category 3 habitat (most tolerant to changes). Each habitat category most commonly found in pastures, hay fields, native grasslands, savannahs as well as in a wide variety of other may be subject to various development restrictions and permitting requirements, depending on the works grassland habitats such as weedy meadows, golf courses, young orchards, and grassy roadside verges which proposed. typically feature elevated song perches such as scattered trees and shrubs or fence posts (Cadman, M.D. et. al., Barn Swallow: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened by 2007; McCracken, J.D. et. al., 2013). This species was observed as a “possible breeder” in several locations in COSEWIC. Barn Swallow have no status under SARA. This species prefers farmland, lake/river shorelines, the study area. This species is most likely to nest closer to field margins rather than field centres. According to wooded clearings, urban populated areas, rocky cliffs, and wetlands. As an aerial insectivore, it is often observed the General Habitat Description for Eastern Meadowlark, the nest and the area within 10 metres of the nest is foraging over open areas of the landscape. This species nests inside or on the exterior of buildings; under bridges considered to be Category 1 habitat, while the area between 10 metres and 100 metres of the nest or centre of and in road culverts; less commonly on rock faces, and in caves (Cadman, M.D. et al., 2007; Heagy, A. et al., approximated defended territory is Category 2 habitat, and the area of continuous suitable habitat between 100 2014). There are a number of stone arch culverts and bridges in the ROW which could potentially provide suitable metres and 300 metres of the nest or approximated centre of defended territory is Category 3 habitat. habitat for nesting. Each of these was surveyed and identified Barn Swallow nesting at two locations in the BRCE Eastern Whip-poor-will: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO, and is also designated as Project study area. According to the General Habitat Description for Barn Swallow, the nest itself is considered Threatened by COSEWIC. The Eastern Whip-poor-will is protected as a Schedule 1 Threatened Species under to be Category 1 habitat, while lands within 5 metres of the nest are Category 2 habitat and lands within 200 SARA. This species generally prefers semi-open deciduous forests or patch forests with clearings; preference is metres are Category 3 habitat. Each habitat category may be subject to various development restrictions and also given to areas with little ground cover. In Ontario, habitat for this species includes rock or sand barrens with permitting requirements, depending on the works proposed. Potential effects on the habitat of this species are scattered trees, savannahs, old burns in a state of early forest succession, and open conifer plantations (Cadman, described in Section 6 of this Report. M.D. et. al., 2007). Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the Eastern Whip-poor-will, it is assumed Bobolink: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened by that there is low to moderate potential for breeding or foraging individuals within the study area and adjacent COSEWIC. Bobolink have no status under SARA. This species is an obligate grassland species and is most lands. There are breeding records of this species from the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland commonly found in open grasslands, pastures and hay fields that are used for nesting, typically featuring relatively Complex, as recently as 2015. According to the General Habitat Description for Eastern Whip-poor-will, the nest tall vegetation. They sometimes use large fields of Winter Wheat and Rye in southwestern Ontario. They are and the area within 20 metres of the nest is considered Category 1 habitat, while the area between 20 metres sensitive to vegetation structure and composition and are positively associated with a high grass-to-forb ratio, and 170 metres from the nest or centre of approximated defended territory is Category 2 habitat, and the area of and moderate litter depth (Cadman, M.D. et al., 2007; McCracken, et al., 2013). They are more likely to nest suitable habitat between 170 metres and 500 metres of the nest or centre of approximated defended territory is closer to field centres rather than field margins. This species has a lower tolerance to the presence of patches of Category 3 habitat. bare ground and appear to prefer larger fields. According to the General Habitat Description for Bobolink, the nest King Rail: This species is designated as Endangered by SARO, and is also designated as endangered by site and the area within 10 metres of the nest is considered to be Category 1 habitat, while the area between 10 COSEWIC. The King Rail is protected as a Schedule 1 Endangered Species under SARA. This species typically metres and 60 metres from the nest or centre of approximated defended territory is Category 2 habitat and the prefers cattail marshes, wet meadows, and natural, occasionally shrubby swales where water depths are area of continuous suitable habitat between 60 metres and 300 metres of the nest or approximated centre of generally less than 25 cm; they favour areas of fairly thick emergent vegetation. An interspersion of wet and dry defended territory is Category 3 habitat. areas is required (Cadman, M.D. et. al., 2007). Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the King Rail, Chimney Swift: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO and is also designated as Threatened by it is assumed that there is low to moderate nesting potential within the study area and adjacent lands. There are COSEWIC. The Chimney Swift is protected as a Schedule 1 Threatened Species under SARA. This species NHIC records from 2005 of King Rail from the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex. In historically (i.e., prior to European settlement) nested/roosted in large hollow trees, other tree cavities, and cracks addition, the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (OBBA) (2001-2005) indicates that this species is exceedingly rare in in cliffs. However, with the advent of buildings and the decline of forest cover in much of its range, the species Ontario. There is currently no General Habitat Description for this species.

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Least Bittern: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened by in the Phase One portion of the study area (Mile 3.00 to Mile 29.90). Three of the 90 sites were surveyed and no COSEWIC. The Least Bittern is protected as a Schedule 1 Threatened Species under SARA. This species is evidence of turtle nesting was found. The remaining 87 sites were located north of Mile 29.90 and will be surveyed most frequently found in marshes of at least 5 ha, however much smaller marshes, including sites such as cattail prior to construction of the Future Phase(s) of the BRCE Project. According to the General Habitat Description stands along creeks and farm ponds partially filled with cattail, may also be used occasionally by these birds. for Blanding’s Turtle, the nest and the area within 30 metres, or the overwintering sites and the area within 30 Breeding sites are typically dominated by cattail, but also sometimes by bulrush, grasses, horsetails, and willow. metres, are considered Category 1 habitat, while the wetland complex (i.e., all suitable wetlands or waterbodies Nests are usually built close to the edge of a stand of vegetation or near openings, although they may be found within 500 metres of each other) that extends up to 2 km from an occurrence, and the area within 30 metres as far as 45 metres from open water (Cadman, M.D. et. al, 2007). Given the habitat requirements and preferences around those suitable wetlands or waterbodies is Category 2 habitat, and an area between 30 metres and 250 of the Least Bittern, it is assumed that there is moderate potential nesting habitat present within the study area metres around suitable wetlands/waterbodies identified in Category 2, within 2 km of an occurrence is Category and adjacent lands. The last recorded NHIC records for this species are from the Holland River East Branch and 3 habitat. Rogers Reservoir circa 1986, and from the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex, circa 1997. Butternut: This species is designated as Endangered by SARO, and is also designated as Endangered by Recent breeding evidence has been recorded around the Scanlon Creek Conservation Area. There is currently COSEWIC. Butternut are protected as a Schedule 1 Endangered Species under SARA. This species typically no General Habitat Description for this species. grows best on rich, moist, well-drained loams often found along stream banks but can also be found on well- Little Brown Myotis, Northern Myotis, and Tri-colored Bat: All three of these bat species are designated as drained gravelly sites, especially of limestone origin. Butternut is intolerant of shade and competition, requiring Endangered by SARO, and are also designated as Endangered by COSEWIC. All three species are also sunlight from above to survive but it has the ability to maintain itself as a minor component of forests in later protected as Schedule 1 Endangered species under SARA. Bats overwinter in underground openings, including successional stages. It is typically scattered throughout a stand and occasionally, groups of butternuts can be caves and abandoned mines, wells, and tunnels that range between 2°C and 10°C during the winter months. found along forest roads, forest edges or anywhere sunlight is adequate to support regeneration through seed Maternal roosting colonies are often associated with cavities, crevices of large diameter trees (25-44 cm Diameter (Environment Canada, 2010). A total of 35 individual Butternut trees were found within the existing rail corridor at Breast Height (DBH)); especially those exhibiting early stages of decay found in deciduous or mixed mature and on lands immediately adjacent to the existing ROW. As such, they may be affected by the proposed forest and treed wetland habitats. These species are also known to occasionally roost in human-made structures construction of the BRCE Project. Further details regarding Butternut trees are in the Tree Inventory and Arborist such as attics and barns (Environment Canada, 2015). Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the Report presented in Appendix B of the BRCE EPR. There is currently no General Habitat Description for this above-referenced bat species, it is assumed that there is no potential for suitable over-wintering hibernacula in species. the study area or adjacent lands. There is however, moderate potential for roosting/maternity sites in the study Sensitive Species: This species, listed as Endangered by SARO is susceptible to unauthorized collection and area and adjacent areas. Locations for Candidate maternity colonies are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in is therefore not named in this public document. This species requires relatively undisturbed, mature Sugar Maple- Appendix A.2 of this Report. There are currently no General Habitat Descriptions for these species. dominated deciduous forests with a heavy canopy to provide low light conditions. Hydrological features, such as Blanding’s Turtle: This species is designated as Threatened by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened seeps and intermittent streams, are equally important (MNRF, 2013c). No suitable mature forests were observed by COSEWIC. Blanding’s Turtles are protected as a Schedule 1 Threatened Species under SARA. This species within the study area and thus no Candidate Habitat is present. There is currently no General Habitat Description generally occurs in freshwater lakes, permanent or temporary pools, slow-flowing streams, marshes and swamps, for this species. fens, and graminoid wet meadows. They prefer shallow water that is rich in nutrients, organic soils, and dense Redside Dace: This species is designated as Endangered by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened by vegetation. Adults are generally found in open or partially vegetated sites, and juveniles prefer areas that contain COSEWIC and as Special Concern (Schedule 3) under SARA. Redside Dace are a cool water fish species that thick aquatic vegetation including sphagnum, water lilies, and algae. They dig their nest in a variety of loose generally inhabit slow moving sections of streams that are usually less than 10 metres wide, and meander through substrates, including sand, organic soil, gravel, and cobblestone. Overwintering occurs in permanent pools that meadows. These streams are typically partially covered by overhanging vegetation, banks, and submerged average about one metre in depth, or in slow-flowing streams (Environment Canada, 2016). branches and logs. The overhanging vegetation not only provides cover that is used by Redside Dace to avoid Given the habitat requirements and preferences of the Blanding’s Turtle, it is assumed that there is moderate to predators, but it also provides habitat for the insects that they eat. The substrate generally includes coarser high potential for habitation, basking, or nesting habitat in the study area and surrounding lands. Noted NHIC sediments such as sand, gravel, and cobble which provides spawning habitat (MNRF,2016c). records for this species exist from the 1980’s and early 1990’s within one km of the study area from a number of Potential habitat for Redside Dace within the BRCE Project study area was identified in three watercourses that PSWs (Holland Marsh Wetland Complex, Eaton-Hall-Mary-Hackett Lakes Wetland Complex, King-Vaughan are crossed by the Barrie rail corridor. Approximately 3 km upstream of the Mile 15.38 crossing (tributary of the Wetland Complex, and McKenzie Marsh Wetland Complex), the East Humber River, Don River West Branch, Don River), NHIC records identified this location as potentially containing the species. The other two locations and Tannery Creek. This species is known for travelling long distances over land during the active were identified in the watercourses at the crossings of tributaries of the East Humber River at Miles 24.84 and breeding/basking season. It may use habitat within the study area as a movement corridor to access 24.98, respectively (See Photo 5-6, below). These locations were identified through the Distribution of Aquatic hibernation/basking/nesting sites located on adjacent lands. A total of 90 Candidate Habitats were identified. Site Species at Risk Mapping for the TRCA (DFO, 2015). Locations are shown in Drawing NER-02 provided in investigations were undertaken in the spring of 2016 to search for evidence of turtle nesting in Candidate Habitats

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Appendix A.2 of this Report. Redside Dace habitat is regulated under the ESA, 2007. A habitat regulation replaces water that would indicate the potential for fish habitat. Due to the length and extent of the study limits, high-rail the General Habitat Protection. It provides a more precise definition of a species’ habitat and may describe vehicles were employed to ensure safety and expedite the travel time between areas of investigative interest. features, geographic boundaries or other unique characteristics. The current definition of Redside Dace habitat Fisheries data was obtained from the MNRF, TRCA, LSRCA, NHIC, and DFO, and reviewed for relevant, BRCE is set out in O. Reg. 242/08. Project-specific information. Appendix D of this Report contains data on all the assessed watercourses including watercourse type, thermal regime, flow, relative sensitivity, and potential fish species. Review of the available fisheries and watershed management plans, MNRF fish-dot information, and aquatic resource area mapping was conducted to determine the watercourse names, general fisheries communities, and future direction of the fisheries management within the watersheds. These sources were also reviewed for watercourse and drain classification status.

Based on the above, most watercourses located along the ROW are either classified (warm, cool/mixed, or cold water thermal regime) or are unclassified, meaning they have not been assessed to date. Permanent and seasonal watercourses are often classified as fish habitat based on the definition provided in the Fisheries Act. The Fisheries Act defines fish habitat as “spawning grounds and any other areas, including nursery, rearing, food supply and migration areas, on which fish depend directly or indirectly in order to carry out their life processes”.

Of the 46 drainage and watercourses that cross the existing Barrie rail corridor, nine are classified as cold water, two are cool water or mixed, 22 are warm water, and 13 are unclassified, based on the reviewed background information and site observations. Based on the timing of the site work (June 1 to June 5, 2015) and the annual precipitation amounts, most watercourses in the study area had visible water flow or evidence of water from previous rain events. Photo 5-6: Redside Dace habitat in the East Humber River (Mile 24.98) Watercourses that were assessed and did not contain or were not considered to contribute to potential fish habitat American Eel: This species is designated as Endangered by SARO, and is also designated as Threatened by are not discussed further within this Report. However, details of those watercourse crossings are located in COSEWIC, but has no federal schedule or status under SARA. The American Eel spawn in the North Atlantic Appendix D of this Report. Ocean and migrate along the Eastern North American coast. In Ontario, it can be found in fresh water areas that 5.9.1 West Don River System are connected to the Atlantic Ocean, including the Great Lakes and larger inland waters such as Lake Simcoe Within the study area, the West Don River system is classified primarily as warm water and is managed as a (MacGregor, R., et. al, 2013). Given the habitat requirements and preferences of American Eel, it is assumed that mixed water fishery. Improvements discussed in the Don River Watershed Plan (TRCA, 2009) include protecting there is no occurrence potential within the study area and adjacent lands. Though this species is known to occupy and enhancing habitat for Blacknose Shiner (Notropis heterolepis), Northern Redbelly Dace (Chrosomus eos), Lake Simcoe, it is unlikely to be found in any of the contributing waterways that run through the study area. There Johnny Darter (Etheostoma nigrum), Longnose Dace (Rhinichthys cataractae), and Common Shiner (Luxilus is currently no General Habitat Description for this species. cornutus). However, as anticipated, the quality of the system was observed to be generally degraded through 5.9 Fish and Fish Habitat typical urbanization activities including channelization, bank hardening, and stormwater discharge. Background The existing Barrie rail corridor traverses, and is aligned adjacent to, several watercourses, many of which are review also indicated the presence of potential flooding issues (Westminster Creek), and the presence of invasive considered locally significant. Due to the volume of information available for the subject watercourses and species (i.e., goldfish). As such, only relatively-tolerant, low-sensitivity fish species are anticipated to inhabit this respective subwatersheds, an invasive fish sampling study was not warranted to characterize the watercourses system in the area of the Barrie rail corridor south of Teston Road. The Don River Watershed Plan (TRCA, 2009) found within the study area. also states that the lands north of Teston Road, that are undeveloped (i.e., “whitebelt”), provide the last opportunity for state of the art greenfield development and contain aquatic habitat supporting some of the few Each watercourse crossing and surface water feature adjacent to the existing Barrie rail corridor, that could remaining aquatic species that are habitat specialists. potentially provide fish habitat, was visually inspected and assessed. Drawing NER-02 provided in Appendix A.2 of this Report shows the locations of the watercourse crossings and the locations where aquatic assessments Based on information obtained from the NHIC, Redside Dace is identified as a SAR potentially being located in were conducted. Burnside staff visually inspected the study area between June 1 and June 5, 2015, to verify sections of the West Don River, upstream of the Mile 15.40 crossing (south of the Rutherford GO Station). It is background information and to determine the presence of any surface water conveyance, discharge, or body of noted that aquatic SAR were previously discussed in Section 4.8 of this Report.

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The eight watercourses that are crossed within the West Don River system provide direct fish habitat and also Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio), and Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) are also listed as potentially provide water quantity and quality to downstream fish habitat (including Lake Ontario). As such, these inhabiting these watercourses. However, the larger sportfish species are likely more commonly found in the larger watercourses are considered part of a CRA Fishery, as described in the Fisheries Act. See Appendix D for more features, including the confluences between the smaller tributaries and the main stem of the East Holland River. detailed information on species presence, and watercourse descriptions within the study area. Watercourses located in the more urbanized sections showed evidence of water quality degradation from stormwater influence, channelization, and bank hardening, decreasing the likelihood of environmentally sensitive, 5.9.2 East Humber River System habitat-specific fish species inhabiting those areas. A bank with gabion armouring is shown in Photo 5-8. There are five watercourse crossings within the study area that are part of the East Humber River system. The thermal regimes in these watercourses are primarily identified as warm water and all of them were considered to No fish SAR were identified in the area of any of the watercourse crossings. However, an occupied or recovery be either known (confirmed), or potential fish habitat. Thermal regimes and fish and fish habitat were confirmed reach for Redside Dace was identified in the watercourses connected to the main stem of the East Holland River. through a combination of background information, including the Humber River Fisheries Management Plan These watercourses flow south, into the East Holland River, along the northern bank (opposite side of the East (TRCA, 2005), and site observations. Holland River from the rail ROW), approximately 200 metres north of the ROW. Based on the location of this occupied or recovery reach for Redside Dace, the rail ROW did not appear to be hydraulically linked to this The watercourses that are crossed by the existing Barrie rail corridor are identified as first or second order identified habitat, and will not be considered further in this Report. More information on the fish and fish habitat in tributaries to the East Humber River, indicating that they function as tributary contributors to the main stem. the East Holland River system is provided in Appendix D of this Report. Watercourses that cross the rail ROW in this system are mainly located in a mixture of agricultural land and greenspace.

Based on background information and observations made during the site reconnaissance, the watercourses observed within this system primarily contain warm to cool-water species including: White Sucker (Catostomus commersonii), Bluntnose Minnow (Pimephales notatus), Fathead Minnow (Pimephales promelas), Blacknose Dace (Rhinichthys atratulus), Pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus), Johnny Darter, Brown Bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) and Yellow Bullhead (Ameiurus natalis), and various other common cyprinid species.

Occupied or recovery reaches for Redside Dace were also identified downstream adjacent to the existing rail ROW in the area of Mile 24.84 and Mile 24.98. However, based on the site reconnaissance, the areas immediately adjacent to the ROW did not appear to be ideal habitat for Redside Dace, and further discussion with respective agencies (i.e., MNRF, DFO, and TRCA) is recommended prior to Project construction to confirm that the design and mitigation measures in the area of this crossing are acceptable. More information on the fish and fish habitat in the East Humber River system is located in Appendix D of this Report. 5.9.3 East Holland River System Eleven watercourse crossings, that are part of the East Holland River subwatershed system, were identified and investigated during the site reconnaissance. All of the watercourses were considered to contain potential fish habitat, including the tributary shown in Photo 5-7. The East Holland River subwatershed encompasses the Towns of Aurora, Newmarket, and East Gwillimbury. Photo 5-7: Tributary of the East Holland River Photo 5-8: Gabian armouring along a bank of the The East Holland River system contains a diverse fish community ranging from cold headwater communities meandering through East Holland River (Mile 34.25) containing Brook Trout and Mottled Sculpin to warm water, large order watercourses containing species such as meadow marsh interspersed with a few Spruce Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) and Brown Bullhead (LSRCA 2010a). trees (Picea species) (Mile 32.19)

The watercourses crossed by the rail ROW encompass these wide ranging fish communities, with the southernmost crossing (Tannery Creek, Mile 28.80) characterized as a high quality, cold water watercourse containing Brook Trout. While the more northern crossings are characterized as higher-order warm water watercourses containing cool to warm water fish species including Brook Stickleback, Pumpkinseed, Common Shiner, Blacknose Dace, Longnose Dace, Creek Chub (Semotilus atromaculatus), White Sucker, and Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens), larger sportfish species including Northern Pike (Esox lucius), Largemouth Bass,

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5.9.4 West Holland River System 5.9.6 Hewitt’s Creek System Watercourses in the West Holland River system are crossed by the existing rail ROW at six locations generally Two branches of Hewitt’s Creek are crossed by the existing Barrie rail ROW (at Mile 57.41 and Mile 58.21) near ranging from the Bradford GO Station, north to approximately Line 13, in the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury. the origin of the headwaters of the system. These sections of watercourse are intermittent in nature, but are Similar to the East Holland River and its tributaries, the West Holland River and its tributaries have been subject considered to provide water quality and quantity to downstream habitat for cold water species, including Brook to many fisheries investigations and have been well studied. Trout and Mottled Sculpin. Fish species also anticipated to reside in the system include sucker, dace species, and cyprinid species. See Appendix D for more detailed information on species presence and habitat descriptions The main stem of the West Holland River is the southernmost watercourse crossed by the rail ROW in the West within the Hewitt’s Creek system. Holland River system. The West Holland River is a well know recreational fishery and is an important watercourse for spawning, nursery, and rearing habitat for resident fish of Lake Simcoe. According to the West Holland River 5.9.7 Lovers Creek Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2010b), there have been 34 fish species captured in this system since 1930. Similar The Lovers Creek crossing is located in an urbanized area of the City of Barrie (Mile 61.20). However, despite its to the East Holland River subwatershed, fish communities can range from cold headwater communities to diverse urban location, it is an important cold water contributor and migratory route to Lake Simcoe. Previous fish warm, large order systems. Based on the types of watercourses encountered along the ROW, fish species range sampling between the existing Barrie rail corridor and Hurst Drive indicated the presence of Blacknose Dace, from low diversity in small watercourses to very high diversity in large rivers, such as the main stem of the West Bluntnose Minnow, Longnose Dace, Slimy Sculpin (Cottus cognatus), White Sucker, and Largemouth Bass Holland River (Mile 41.00). (MNRF, 2014a). The fish community upstream of the rail ROW is known to consist of resident Brook Trout, with various cyprinid species (MNRF, 2014a). See Appendix D of this Report for more detailed information on species Warm water species in the West Holland River subwatershed primarily consist of bass, carp, sunfishes, and a presence and habitat descriptions within the Lovers Creek system. range of minnows. Cool water species consist of suckers and Northern Pike, and cold water species primarily consist of Brook Trout, sculpins, and dace species. 5.9.8 Whiskey Creek Similar to Lovers Creek, Whiskey Creek is also located in an urbanized area of the City of Barrie (Mile 62.00), All of the investigated watercourses contained potential direct fish habitat, and contributed water quality and and is an important cold water contributor and migratory route to Lake Simcoe. Resident fish species identified quantity to downstream fish habitat that is part of a CRA Fishery. No fish SAR were identified in any of the six through background information include Brook Trout, Mottled Sculpin, common dace species, and White Sucker, watercourses. See Appendix D of this Report for more detailed information on species presence and habitat Yellow Perch, and Black Crappie (MNRF, 2014a). See Appendix D for more detailed information on species descriptions within the West Holland River system. presence and habitat descriptions within the Whiskey Creek system. 5.9.5 Innisfil Creeks System 5.10 Natural Heritage Systems Eleven relatively small watercourses that contain fish habitat are crossed by the existing Barrie rail corridor in the Natural Heritage Systems are an ecologically based grouping of nature and natural functions. The PPS (2014) Innisfil Creeks subwatershed, west of Lake Simcoe. A commonality between all of these 11 watercourses is that defines a NHS as: they are considered to be either cool or cold water watercourses, several of which are considered to be the main stem of watercourses whose headwaters originate in agricultural areas to the west. Watercourses that are crossed A system made up of natural heritage features and areas, and the linkages intended to provide connectivity include the main stem and/or tributary branches of Upper Marsh Creek, Wilson Creek, White Birch Creek, Carson (at the regional or site level) and support natural processes which are necessary to maintain biological and Creek, Belle Aire Creek, and Banks Creek. geological diversity, natural functions, viable populations of indigenous species, and ecosystems. These systems can include natural heritage features and areas, federal and provincial park and conservation All watercourses generally flow from west to east, toward Lake Simcoe, and are either direct fish habitat or reserves, other natural heritage features, lands that have been restored or have the potential to be restored contribute water quality and quantity to downstream fish habitat. Based on background fish species information, to a natural state, areas that support hydrologic functions, and working landscapes that enable ecological these relatively small creek systems provide habitat to a variety of cool to cold water species including White functions to continue. (PPS, 2014, page 45). Sucker, dace, darter, sculpin and other cyprinid species. However, it is expected that some watercourses also provide habitat for Brook Trout. Within the study area, NHSs have been identified in the ORMCP and Greenbelt Plan. Each NHS is described in the following sections. The section of Upper Marsh Creek that was observed (Mile 47.89) contained high quality fish habitat, and Brook Trout and cyprinid species were observed from the existing rail ROW. According to the Innisfil Creeks 5.10.1 Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan Natural Core and Natural Linkage Areas Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA, 2012a), historically, many of the creeks in this system provided habitat for Brook The ORMCP identifies a NHS that includes Natural Core Areas and Natural Linkage Areas, as shown previously Trout. However, due to degradation of their local and upstream environments, almost none of these watercourses in Figure 2-2. The purpose of each area is as follows: now contain Brook Trout. The habitat within this section of these watercourses should be preserved to maintain • Natural Core Areas: to maintain and where possible improve or restore the integrity of the Plan Area; and their sensitive habitat. See Appendix D for more detailed information on species presence and habitat descriptions within the Innisfil Creeks system.

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• Natural Linkage Areas: to maintain, and where possible improve or restore the ecological integrity of the Plan corridor and crosses in several locations through this stretch. Area and to maintain and where possible improve or restore regional scale open space linkages between The Nokidaa Bike Trail runs through this valley corridor, as shown in Photo 5-9. Natural Core Areas and along river valleys and stream corridors. 5.11 Ecological Linkages The Barrie rail corridor lies within a Natural Core Area in the northern portion of the City of Vaughan and the All three provincial plans relevant to the study area include policies to protect or improve ecological linkages and southern portion of the Township of King (Mile 21.80 to 22.70). This area corresponds with the provincially corridors across the landscape. Linkages are important in allowing wildlife to move between key habitats required significant King-Vaughan Wetland Complex, and the Maple Uplands and Kettles Provincial Life Science ANSI. for different stages of their life cycle (i.e., breeding areas, summer foraging and winter areas). Linkages also allow This area also includes the headwaters of the East Humber River. The King City GO Station is located within the movement between populations which help increase and maintain diversity. Due to the linear nature of the BRCE Natural Core Area. As noted in Section 2 of this Report, no new transit stations are permitted within Natural Core rail corridor, culverts and bridges provide the primary linking structure and passage across the corridor. Existing Areas; however, upgrades to existing stations are permitted. and potential ecological linkages were identified at culverts and bridges where Significant or Candidate Significant The Barrie rail corridor also lies within two Natural Linkage Areas, as follows: features were present on both sides of the corridor in areas associated with:

• Area 1: Mile 21.30 to 22.00: Includes agricultural lands between Kirby Road and King-Vaughan Road; and • Significant Valleylands, described in Section 5.3;

• Area 2: Mile 23.60 to Mile 25.50: Located to the northeast of King City between Dufferin Street and Bathurst • ORMCP Natural Linkages Areas, described in Section 5.10.1; and Street. This area primarily consists of farmland with a small woodlot and open fields associated with the rural • Greenbelt Plan River Valley Linkages, described in Section 5.10.2. Country Day School property. The East Humber River crosses the corridor through this area. Fourteen primary linkage or wildlife crossing areas were identified along the corridor as summarized in Table 5.10.2 Greenbelt Plan Natural Heritage System 5-11. The following linkage areas currently provide sufficient passage for aquatic species and other small and The Greenbelt Plan identifies a NHS that includes, “areas of the Protected Countryside with the highest mid-sized mammals, amphibians and reptiles: concentration of the most sensitive and/or significant natural features and functions” (MMAH, 2005, page 16). The NHS shown in Figure 2-2 is designed to protect significant natural features and the connections between • Mile 23.93: Pedestrian underpass in the Township of King; them. The NHS includes the Don River corridor where it crosses the Barrie rail corridor near Mile 20.90 in the City • Mile 32.20: Stone bridge over a Tributary of the East Holland River in Newmarket; of Vaughan. The NHS also includes a large natural area and unevaluated wetland north of Bathurst Street in the northern portion of the Township of King as well as the West Holland River corridor at Mile 41.00, several • Mile 41.00: West Holland River Bridge, Township of King/Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury; unevaluated wetlands and the Holland Marsh PSW, the Scanlon Creek Conservation Area, Deer Wintering • Mile 44.15: Box culvert conveying Scanlon Creek at the Scanlon Creek Conservation Area in the Town of Habitat identified by the MNRF and the Holland River Marsh Provincial Life Science ANSI between Miles 41.00 Bradford West Gwillimbury; and 49.00. • Mile 49.20: Box culvert conveying White Birch Creek in the Town of Innisfil; and In order to support connections, the Greenbelt Plan also identifies key river valleys that run through urban areas. These urban rivers have an important linkage function • Mile 61.14: Bridge over Lovers Creek (Tollendale Creek) in the City of Barrie. on the landscape. River valley linkages cross the study The remaining linkage areas are undersized or are lacking structures (e.g., benches) that would allow for greater area in the following locations, as shown in Figure 2-3: wildlife movement. Recommendations for the inclusion of ecopassages prior to Project construction are provided • Mile 31.39: Tannery Creek valley crossing in the in Section 6. Town of Aurora;

• Mile 32.01: East Holland River valley crossing in the Town of Newmarket;

• Mile 32.19: East Holland River tributary valley crossing in the Town of Newmarket; and

• Mile 32.50 to 38.52: East Holland River valley

corridor follows within 120 metres of the rail Photo 5-9: Nokidaa Bike Trail within the East Holland River Valley (Mile 33.09)

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Table 5-11: Ecological Linkages Crossing the Barrie Rail Corridor

ORMCP Greenbelt Improved Mile Marker in Conservation Associated Significant Natural Plan River Linkage Municipality Barrie Rail Authority Natural Features Linked Condition of Linkage Watercourse Valleyland Linkage Valley (Ecopassage) Corridor Jurisdiction Area Connection Required A tributary of the East Humber River flows through the culvert at Mile 23.90. This culvert provides very limited wildlife Tributary of These two culverts provide a link along the East passage; however, the culvert at Mile 23.93 is located in close 23.90 and TRCA East Humber Y N N Humber River valley corridor with connections to proximity. It is a recently constructed pedestrian underpass No 23.93 Township of River the King-Vaughan Wetland Complex. that doubles as a culvert. Suitable passage for small and mid- King sized mammals and some land-based reptiles and amphibians is present at this location. East Humber Provides a link along the main East Humber Existing culvert is undersized. Passage for small and mid- 24.98 TRCA Y Y N Yes River River corridor. sized mammals, reptiles and amphibians may be limited. Creek corridor links the Aurora McKenzie Tannery 31.50 LSRCA Y N Y Wetland Complex to the west and the habitats Limited connection provided by the existing culvert. Yes Creek found within the St. Andrews Valley Golf Club. Tannery Links unevaluated wetlands with the habitats Existing bridge is hydraulically deficient. Passage for small Town of Creek 32.00 LSRCA Y N Y found within the St. Andrews Valley Golf Club and mid-sized mammals, reptiles and amphibians may be Yes Newmarket (Clubinis and beyond. limited. Creek) Tributary of Existing stone bridge provides sufficient space for passage of Links unevaluated wetlands on the west and 32.20 LSRCA East Holland Y N Y large mammals and turtles. Passage for small and mid-sized No east side of the rail corridor. River mammals, reptiles and amphibians may be limited. Tributary of Provides a link between Significant Woodlands Two existing culverts (CSP and concrete pipe). Passage for Town of East 37.40 LSRCA East Holland Y N Y and unevaluated wetlands and the East Branch small and mid-sized mammals, reptiles and amphibians is Yes Gwillimbury River of the Holland River. limited. Township of King/Town of The West Holland River provides an important West Holland River bridge. Sufficient passage opportunities West Holland Bradford 41.00 LSRCA N N N migratory route for aquatic and semi-aquatic exist for aquatic species and for small and mid-sized No River West species. mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Gwillimbury Provides a linkage between unevaluated Tributary of wetlands to the west and the provincially Existing concrete culvert is undersized. Passage for small and Town of 42.60 LSRCA the West N N N Yes significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex to mid-sized mammals, reptiles and amphibians may be limited. Bradford Holland River the east. West Important connection between the Scanlon Gwillimbury Existing stone and concrete bridge conveys large quantity of 44.15 LSRCA Scanlon Creek Y N N Creek Conservation Area and wetlands to the No water. Passage for turtles possible. west.

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5.12 Summary of Significant and Candidate Significant Features • King Rail; This section provides a summary of all known features of Significance or Candidate Significance documented in • Least Bittern; the study area. The following features of significance have been identified within the BRCE Project study area and are shown in Drawing NER-01 and NER-02 provided in Appendices A.1 and A.2 of this Report, respectively. • Little Brown Myotis;

Significant Natural Areas: • Northern Myotis;

• 57 wetlands within 6 PSW Complexes; • Tri-colored Bat; and

• 117 Non-significant and unevaluated wetlands; • Blanding’s Turtle.

• 89 Significant Woodlands; Fish Habitat, subject to the Fisheries Act:

• 18 Significant Valleylands; • 9 cold water streams;

• 1 Provincial Life Science ANSI; and • 2 cool water streams;

• 2 Candidate Life Science ANSIs. • 22 warm water streams; and

Confirmed Provincial Plan-Specific Features: • 13 unclassified streams.

• 1 Natural Area Abutting Lake Simcoe within the LSPP. Ecological Linkage Areas:

Wildlife Habitats: • 6 Ecological Linkages with sufficient wildlife passage; and

• Significant and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat in Ecoregions 6E and 7E Outside of the ORMCP Area; • 8 Ecological Linkages with limited wildlife passage.

• Significant and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat in the ORMCP Area; and Nests of Migratory Birds, subject to the MBCA, 1994:

• Significant and Candidate Significant Habitats of SCC. • Various migratory bird species present and breeding within the study area.

Species at Risk, subject to the ESA, 2007: Effects to Significant and Candidate Significant features identified in Section 5 that may be affected by the proposed rail infrastructure, GO Station improvements and Bradford Layover Facility are discussed in detail in • Significant Habitat of Endangered or Threatened Species, including the following:37 Section 6.  Bank Swallow;

 Butternut; and 6. Impact Assessment of the Preferred Design

 Redside Dace. This section documents the potential effects on the natural environment resulting from the implementation of the preferred design for the BRCE Project during the pre-construction land clearing, construction and • Candidate Significant Habitat of Endangered or Threatened Species, including the following:38 operations/maintenance phases for each of the three Project components – proposed rail infrastructure (addition • Barn Swallow; of second track), GO Station improvements, and the Bradford Layover Facility components. This section also documents the mitigation measures, net effects39 and monitoring activities associated with the three Project • Bobolink; components.

• Eastern Meadowlark; The electrification of the Barrie rail corridor is being assessed under a separate TPAP. As such, the GO Rail • Eastern Whip-poor-will; Electrification TPAP will address any electrification potential effects, mitigation measures, net effects and monitoring activities for the Barrie rail corridor beyond the works proposed as part of the BRCE TPAP.

37 Mapped as “SAR Habitat” on Drawing NER-02 found in Appendix A.2. 39 Net effects are defined as the residual effects remaining following the application of mitigation and/or avoidance and/or 38 Mapped as “SAR Habitat” on Drawing NER-02 found in Appendix A.2. compensation measures.

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6.1 Rail Infrastructure Species at Risk: A number of areas identified as Significant or Candidate Significant Habitat of Endangered and This section documents the potential effects on the natural environment resulting from pre-construction land Threatened Species will be cleared. In total, 21.45 ha of Candidate Habitat will be removed. Removal of this clearing, construction and operations/maintenance of the new rail infrastructure along the Barrie rail corridor. habitat may be subject to the ESA, 2007 which prohibits the killing, harming or harassing of Endangered and Threatened Species and destruction of their habitats. Much of this habitat is located within the Significant Natural 6.1.1 Potential Effects Areas listed in Table 6-1. In total, 7.68 ha are located in meadow, thicket and open woodland areas outside of Details regarding the potential effects of construction and operations/maintenance are documented below. This Significant Natural Areas. Species-specific considerations are as follows: section also documents the mitigation measures to minimize the anticipated BRCE Project effects, the resultant net effects and any monitoring activities. • Candidate Habitat for Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark: A total of 5.46 ha of Candidate Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark Habitat will be cleared. This habitat includes cultural meadows and non-intensive agricultural 6.1.1.1 Potential Pre-Construction Land Clearing Effects fields. Neither species is likely to nest in close proximity to the ROW due to noise from existing use of the rail Construction of the rail infrastructure will result in a larger footprint to accommodate the rail expansion within, and corridor. Effects to these species are likely to be minimal; and adjacent to, the existing Barrie rail corridor. Where the existing ROW is not wide enough to accommodate the proposed expansion, additional lands will need to be acquired and cleared. As a result of the ROW expansion, • Butternut Trees: A total of 35 trees are located within, or in close proximity to, the ROW and may be affected 38.25 ha of natural features will be removed. This includes: by land clearing activities associated with the BRCE Project. The health of these trees has not been confirmed but, based on preliminary observations; most of the trees appear to be healthy. These trees may need to be • 22.76 ha of Significant Natural Areas (PSWs, Non-significant and Unevaluated wetlands, Significant removed to accommodate the new rail infrastructure. Additional Butternut trees may also be present within Woodlands, Provincial and Candidate ANSIs, Significant Valleylands) and various Significant and Candidate the study area which have not documented due to property access limitations. The removal of Butternut trees Significant Wildlife Habitats located within Significant Natural Areas; and is regulated under the ESA, 2007. • 15.49 ha of Significant and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitats located outside of Significant Natural Work within, or adjacent to, the habitats of these species will be subject to the species-specific mitigation Areas. described in Section 6.1.2.1. All other Significant and Candidate Significant Habitat of Endangered and The effects of land clearing on each type of natural feature are described by municipality in Table 6-1 and Table Threatened Species will be subject to the general mitigation described in the same section. 6-2. Additional details can be found in Appendices H through L of this Report. Nests of Migratory Birds: Clearing of trees, shrubs and ground vegetation has the potential to disturb or destroy Significant Natural Areas: Removal of portions of PSWs, Non-Significant and unevaluated wetlands, Significant nests of migratory birds which are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act. Woodlands, Provincial and Candidate ANSIs and Significant Valleylands are summarized in Table 6-1. Many of

these areas overlap. In total, 22.76 ha of Significant Natural Areas will be removed.

Construction laydown areas and easements will be identified prior to Project construction. There is potential that these areas may result in additional loss of or disturbance to, natural features present in the study area.

Wildlife Habitat: Portions of Significant and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat and Habitat for SCC will need to be removed. Most of the wildlife habitats overlap with the natural areas listed in Table 6-1 with the exception of some open woodland, meadow and thicket-related habitats. In total 35.75 ha of wildlife habitat will be removed, of this 15.49 ha is outside of Significant Natural Areas. A summary of wildlife habitat to be removed is provided in Table 6-1.

Several SWH types could not be identified in the study area due to limited property access. These include:

• Reptile Hibernacula;

• Rare Woodland Types;

• Rare Vegetation Communities; and

• Seeps and Springs.

There is potential that these habitats could be present and could be affected by the BRCE Project.

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Table 6-1: Summary of Significant Natural Areas to be Removed to Accommodate the Rail Infrastructure

Significant Natural Areas Provincially Non-Significant and Significant Provincial Areas of Candidate Areas of Significant Valleylands Significant Wetland Unevaluated Woodland (ha)1 Natural and Scientific Natural and Scientific (ha)4 2 3 Total Natural Area Location (ha) Wetland (ha) Interest (ha) Interest (ha) Removal Accounting for Overlap (ha)

City of Toronto 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.34 0.34 City of Vaughan 0.38 0.54 0.20 0.00 0.58 0.74 1.66 Township of King 0.85 0.45 0.38 0.00 2.00 0.95 2.71 Town of Aurora 0.12 0.22 0.73 0.00 0.00 0.23 1.51 Town of Newmarket 0.01 0.45 0.28 0.00 0.00 1.76 2.07 Town of East Gwillimbury 0.20 0.5 0.85 0.00 0.41 3.59 3.23 Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury 1.00 1.26 1.17 0.34 0.00 1.23 2.97 Town of Innisfil 0.64 3.00 2.58 0.80 0.80 0.03 6.32 City of Barrie 0.00 0.19 0.19 0.00 0.00 1.83 1.96 TOTAL 3.19 6.6 6.37 1.14 3.80 10.70 22.76 1 Some treed swamps are both a woodland and a wetland and therefore some areas are accounted for twice in this table. 2 ANSIs overlap completely with wetlands and woodlands and are accounted for twice in this table. 3 ANSIs overlap completely with wetlands and woodlands and are accounted for twice in this table. 4 Portions of Significant Valleylands overlap with woodland and wetland areas and are accounted for twice in this table.

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Table 6-2: Summary of Wildlife Habitats to be Removed to Accommodate the Rail Infrastructure

Total Wildlife Habitat Removal Outside of Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat Significant Wildlife Habitat Natural Areas2 Amphibian Location Significant Wildlife Habitat for Species of Deer Wintering Osprey Nesting, Breeding Habitat Terrestrial Seeps and Chorus Frog Habitat (All Types) Conservation Concern and Yarding Perching and (Woodland and Crayfish (ha) Springs (ha) Habitat (ha) (ha) (All Species) (ha) Areas (ha) Foraging (ha) Wetland) (ha) City of Toronto 0.06 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.06 City of Vaughan 1.20 0.77 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Township of King 0.00 4.29 0.00 0.00 0.00 Area located 0.00 0.00 2.82 adjacent to the culverts Mile 25.30 and at Mile 31.53. Loss to be confirmed prior to construction. Town of Aurora 1.33 1.11 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.49 Town of Newmarket 1.63 0.68 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.20 Town of East 2.38 1.17 0.00 1.45 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.26 0.06 Gwillimbury Town of Bradford 4.74 9.47 0.00 1.80 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.61 West Gwillimbury Town of Innisfil 8.16 13.12 0.06 3.25 Includes one nest and 0.00 0.07 0.32 8.93 surrounding 300 metre radius foraging areas. City of Barrie 19.45 2.71 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.32 TOTAL 38.95 33.32 0.06 6.50 TBC1 TBC* 0.07 0.61 15.49 1 To be confirmed prior to BRCE Project construction. 2 This number is less than the total of all the habitat types because most are located within Significant Natural Areas and are accounted for in Table 6-1. This total only includes habitats outside of Significant Natural Areas.

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6.1.1.2 Potential Construction Effects Redside Dace Habitat: Regulated habitat for Redside Dace is present within the following watercourses: Activities during construction beyond land clearing could also affect natural areas and features. These are • Mile 15.40: three km upstream of the ROW crossing on a tributary of the Don River; discussed below. • Mile 24.80: East Humber River; and Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: All Significant Natural Areas and Significant and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat, Habitat of SCC, Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species could • Mile 24.90: East Humber River. be affected during construction as follows: The need for culvert/bridge replacement or extensions, and other in- and near-water work within the above • Grading and soil disturbance during construction can lead to erosion and sedimentation within significant watercourses has the potential to harm Redside Dace and/or their habitat. natural features and watercourses. This can affect the quality of habitat, disturb ground vegetation and Wellhead Protection Areas: Though there are a number of WHPAs present along the rail corridor, transportation negatively affect the quality of fish habitat. infrastructure is not subject to Source Water Protection regulations as it is unlikely to cause negative effects. • Stockpiled materials, equipment or construction activities could accidentally encroach into natural areas There are 21 activities that constitute threats to drinking water as defined by Source Water Protection regulations. beyond the proposed ROW limits. This could add to the disturbance to natural features and increase the Threats are defined by the occurrence of these activities under specific conditions that include location, volume quantity lost as a result of the Project. Soils beyond the proposed ROW limits could also become compacted of chemicals involved, method of storage, etc. Based on the list of activities and the circumstances required for a or disturbed if activities extend beyond approved limits. Threat occurrence, there are no activities related to the operation of the rail corridor that are anticipated to meet the criteria to be considered a source protection threat. Based on the expectation that there are no proposed • There is potential for spills of fuels or other hazardous materials to occur during fueling of construction activities related to the operation of the rail corridor that would constitute drinking water threats, no source water equipment or other construction activities. This can affect groundwater quality and the health of vegetation protection regulations will apply to this corridor. However, there is potential for spills of fuels or other hazardous and wildlife within natural areas. materials to occur during fueling of construction equipment or other construction activities, which can affect • Any disturbance to lands and vegetation clearing has the potential to allow invasive species to be introduced groundwater quality. and spread through natural areas. Invasive species can prevent other native species from re-establishing. 6.1.1.3 Potential Operations and Maintenance Effects • Dewatering required during the construction of any deep foundations or footings or other below-ground (sub- Operations and maintenance activities following installation of the new rail infrastructure have the potential to surface) works has the potential to affect groundwater levels, wetland water levels and the hydrology of other affect natural areas and features. These are discussed below. natural features. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: All Significant Natural Areas and Significant • Dust created as a result of construction has the potential to settle on adjacent vegetation, disturbing wildlife and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat, Habitat of SCC, Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species could and their habitat. be affected by operations and maintenance work, as follows:

Significant Valleylands: Any steep slopes associated with Valleylands could be disturbed by vegetation • Significant maintenance activities requiring upgrades or replacement of major infrastructure components removal, grading work and the movement of large equipment. This could result in erosion, slumping, or slope could require earth-moving or in-water works similar to activities described in the construction phase. In these failure. instances the same type of effects noted under construction would also be experienced.

Barn Swallow Nests: Two Barn Swallow nesting sites were identified within the study area. Both are located on • Work will be undertaken to keep the rail ROW clear and free of any vegetation that could disrupt sight lines structures that will need to be replaced or extended as a result of the BRCE Project. Nests are, therefore likely to or interrupt the movement of train traffic. Trees adjacent to the ROW may need to be trimmed and any new be destroyed or disturbed. Active Barn Swallow nests are regulated under the ESA, 2007. vegetation regenerating within the ROW may need to be cleared. Trimming has the potential to harm healthy trees and allow disease or rot to expand. Any use of chemical pesticides to maintain the ROW also has the Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: Accidental mortality could occur if wildlife inadvertently potential to affect groundwater and adjacent natural features if not applied correctly. moves through construction zones. This could occur at any location along the corridor but the highest risk is at the 14 linkage locations identified in Section 5.10 of this Report. Risk is also high adjacent to the Deer Wintering • Spills of fuel and other hazardous materials could occur as a result of maintenance activities. Spills have the and Yarding Areas located in close proximity to the corridor. potential to affect ground and surface water quality and kill or harm vegetation and wildlife.

Fish Habitat: The addition of a second track will result in the need to extend culverts to span the proposed Wildlife Habitat, Species at Risk and Nests of Migratory Birds: Some species are adapted to noise and the widened ROW. The installing or extension of culverts has the potential to harm fish habitat. A total of 46 culvert presence of human activity, while others are more sensitive. There are currently a minimum of 14 trains per day and bridge locations that convey watercourses are considered to be either direct or indirect fish habitat, and are running from Union Station to the Allandale Waterfront GO Station with more frequent service in the more expected to be modified along the rail corridor as provided in Appendix D of this Report. southerly portions of the corridor. Although some sensitive species were observed, the existing noise and activity

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levels are enough to deter most sensitive species. As train frequency, noise and activity increases along the Federal lands: For vegetation removals within Federally-owned lands, applicable removal and restoration corridor, more sensitive species may move away from the disturbance. Given the existing conditions, any increase requirements will be followed. in train noise and activity is likely to have a minimal effect. Tree End Use: Metrolinx will develop options for the end use of trees removed from Metrolinx property (e.g., Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: The existing Barrie rail corridor is a long linear feature on reuse/recycling options). the landscape. Some fencing is present along the existing ROW which acts to prevent some wildlife movement Additional mitigation measures are as follows: across the corridor. At completion, the BRCE Project will include full fencing along both sides of the proposed ROW, primarily for public safety purposes but will also be designed to accommodate needs for future Significant Natural Areas: Mitigation will include the following: electrification of the corridor. The fencing details will be determined prior to Project construction. Subject to final • Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through implementation of the Vegetation design, the overall effect may be a long linear barrier across the landscape. The barrier effect will be most Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. pronounced at the eight linkage locations where wildlife passage is currently limited, as identified in Section 5.10 of this Report. Movement will also be limited between and around the two Deer Yarding Areas located in close • Clearing and grubbing will occur from the track-side of the natural area and a detailed ESC Plan will be proximity to the corridor. developed to limit damage to the remaining natural areas.

Despite the presence of fencing, there is potential for wildlife mortality as a result of wildlife/train collisions. With • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work the increased frequency of train traffic, wildlife/train collisions are expected to increase. Exclusion fencing should occur outside the work zone. designed to keep wildlife out of the ROW can trap wildlife in the corridor if they inadvertently enter through a road • Detailed clearing, ESC Plans and Restoration Plans will be developed in accordance with the Vegetation crossing or other gap in the fencing. It is acknowledged that trapped wildlife are likely to be involved in collisions Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects and approved Landscape Plans developed prior to Project with trains. Collisions can occur anywhere across the corridor but are more likely to occur where wildlife are construction. attempting to cross the corridor at the linkage locations identified in Section 5.10 and in the vicinity of the two Deer Wintering and Yarding Areas. • In wetlands: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:

6.1.2 Mitigation Measures  Wetlands will be restored as necessary to maintain the stability and function of the wetland and will be Mitigation measures were developed to address each of the potential effects from the rail infrastructure and are developed in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects and discussed below. approved Landscape Plans developed prior to Project construction.

6.1.2.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing • In woodlands40: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: Metrolinx is currently consulting with conservation authorities and affected municipalities to establish a Vegetation  Tree Protection Zones (TPZs) will be established in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. Vegetation that is removed will be compensated for in Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. accordance with the provisions of this Protocol, as follows:  Barriers will be installed around trees to be protected using plywood clad boarding or an equivalent For Municipal/Private Trees: Metrolinx will work with each municipality to develop a municipality-wide material approved by the affected municipality. streamlined tree permitting/compensation approach for municipal and private trees. The goal is to reduce administrative permitting burden for trees affected within long stretches of the rail corridor.  No stockpiles, storage or disturbance to grade will occur within the TPZ to minimize soil compaction and root damage. For Trees within Metrolinx Property: Metrolinx is developing a methodology to compensate for trees located within Metrolinx’s property. This will involve categorizing trees by community type/ecological value and • In Valleylands: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: establishing the appropriate level of compensation. Metrolinx will be looking to partner with conservation  Work on steep slopes will be limited to the extent possible. In areas subject to conservation authority authorities and affected municipalities to develop the final compensation plan. regulations, detailed clearing and ESC Plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA for voluntary Conservation Authorities: For vegetation removals within conservation authority lands, applicable removal and review. restoration requirements will be followed.

40 When applicable, during construction projects the City of Toronto requires tree protection to be installed for all trees, not Protection Zones (TPZs) (based on size of the tree and bylaw regulation), prohibited activities, and tree protection measures just trees in woodlands. The City has established specifications for construction near trees which outlines the minimum Tree which are to be implemented within the City of Toronto's boundaries.

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Wildlife Habitat: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: an alternative location and removal of the existing nest outside of the breeding bird timing window (April 1st to August 31st). • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window, generally from April 1st to August 31st41.  Significant Terrestrial Crayfish Habitat: Work in this area will be limited to the extent possible. If the habitat area cannot be avoided, disturbed areas will be restored to their original condition. Culvert design, • If clearing must occur within this window, a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected land clearing and ESC Plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA for voluntary review. area. Any active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be avoided until the Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. Table 6-3: Habitat Timing Windows

• If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is identified within or adjacent to the 1 Inspection Required During These Timing Habitat Type Applicable Habitat Types 2 construction site, all activities will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified Ecologist) shall Windows Prior to Clearing discuss mitigation measures with Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department staff. In Breeding Habitats addition, Metrolinx will consult with the MNRF and ECCC to discuss applicable mitigation options. The • Amphibian Breeding Habitat (woodlands); Contractor will proceed based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx, • Amphibian Breeding Habitat (wetlands); the MNRF and/or ECCC. Amphibian Breeding • Amphibian Woodland Breeding Habitat March 15th to July 31st • Habitats with a critical timing window at a different time of year (e.g., early spring migration and wintering Habitat (vernal pools) (ORMCP); habitats) will be assessed by a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist prior to any clearing to confirm that the • Habitats for SCC: habitat is not in use. If the habitat is being used for critical life functions (i.e., nesting, migration stopover, o Western Chorus Frog. hibernation, overwintering), the area will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be Migration-Related Habitats avoided until the area is no longer in use. These additional timing windows are listed in Table 6-3. Specific Migratory Bird • Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas February 1st to May 1st and August 31st to October habitats that require inspection during these times are provided in Appendices J, K and L.2, of this Report. Stopover (aquatic). 15th • Compensation for habitats located within Significant Natural Areas will follow the mitigation measures laid out Hibernation/Wintering Habitats under Significant Natural Areas, identified previously in this Section. • Reptile/Snake Hibernaculum (if observed Reptile Hibernacula October 1st to April 30th • Where habitats do not coincide with a Significant Natural Area, compensation measures will be developed, prior to Project construction). as appropriate. Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through implementation of the Turtle Overwintering • Turtle Overwintering Areas. October 1st to April 30th Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects: • Deer Wintering Areas; Deer Wintering Areas November 1st to March 31st  Species-specific mitigation is as follows: • Deer Yarding Areas.

 Significant Deer Wintering and Yarding Areas: Clearing and woodland removal will occur outside of Raptor Wintering • Raptor Wintering Areas. November 1st to March 1st the timing window listed in Table 6-3 (generally November 1 to March 31, regardless of the calendar 1 Timing windows for clearing of any Habitats of Endangered and Threatened Species will be determined through the year), or will be inspected by a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist prior to clearing to confirm areas are ESA, 2007 permitting process. not providing a critical wintering function. Areas immediately adjacent to the existing corridor are not likely 2 Timing windows apply to all Candidate Habitats unless an applicable Habitat Use Study is undertaken prior to Project to be used extensively by deer and therefore no additional mitigation or compensation measures are construction and the Candidate Habitat is found to be non-significant. required, other than what is required for any overlapping habitats or features.

 Significant Osprey Nesting, Perching and Foraging: During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure will be designed to avoid the loss of the nest to the extent possible. If the nest cannot be accommodated in its current position, the MNRF will be contacted to develop a relocation plan. A plan would be developed in consultation with the MNRF and could include installation of a nesting platform in

41 This timing window does not apply where habitats have been identified as part of the habitat of a SAR. In that case, timing windows will be confirmed by MNRF.

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Species at Risk: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: Nests of Migratory Birds: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:

• Detailed field surveys will be undertaken prior to Project construction to confirm the presence of the following • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window, generally from April 1st to species: August 31st42.

 King Rail; • If clearing must occur within this window, a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be avoided until the  Least Bittern; Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active.  Eastern Whip-poor-will; • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is identified within or adjacent to the  Blanding’s Turtle; and construction site, all activities will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified Ecologist) shall discuss mitigation measures with Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department staff. In  Little Brown Myotis, Northern Myotis, and Tri-colored Bat. addition, Metrolinx will consult with the MNRF and ECCC to discuss applicable mitigation options. The • Findings of field surveys will be reported to the MNRF. Contractor will proceed based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx, the MNRF and/or ECCC. • During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure will be designed to avoid the loss of any Confirmed Habitat of Endangered or Threatened Species to the extent possible. 6.1.2.2 Construction Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: • Where loss cannot be avoided, the MNRF will be contacted and all requirements under the ESA, 2007 will be met, including any species-specific registration, compensation and/or permitting requirements. • A qualified Environmental Inspector43 is required throughout the construction period to ensure that protection measures are implemented, maintained and enforced. • Timing windows for removal of any Confirmed Endangered or Threatened Species habitat will be developed in consultation with the MNRF in association with any self-registration or permitting requirements. • A Soil Management Plan (SMP) will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). • Should a SAR be encountered that is not identified on relevant permits, all work will cease within the immediate work area and the MNRF will be contacted. • The SMP will include a strategy to prevent Bank Swallow nesting in stockpiled or exposed soils. • Erosion and Sediment Control Plans and Dewatering Plans will be developed prior to Project construction in • With regard to Butternut, the following mitigation measures will be implemented: consultation with the TRCA and LSRCA and will conform to industry BMPs and recognized standard  Detailed field surveys will be undertaken prior to Project construction by a qualified Ecologist to confirm specifications. The ESC Plan shall also take into account the Greater Golden Horseshoe Area and whether any additional Butternut trees are present within areas to be cleared beyond the 35 known Conservation Authority (GGHACA) Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines for Urban Construction (2006). locations. • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work  During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure will be designed to avoid the removal of Butternut should occur outside the work zone. trees to the extent possible. • Erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented prior to Project construction and maintained  Any habitat damage identified during the field surveys or tree removal confirmed prior to Project during the construction phase in accordance with the ESC Plan. construction will be submitted to the MNRF. The approach for the BHA will be conducted in consultation • If the erosion and sediment control measures or dewatering measures are not functioning properly, no further with the MNRF for all Butternut trees that must be removed. All findings will be reported to the MNRF. work in the affected areas will occur until the problem is addressed.  Where loss of a retainable tree cannot be avoided, the MNRF will be contacted and all requirements • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be stabilized and re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. under the ESA, 2007 will be met, including any registration, Butternut Compensation Planting Plans and/or permitting requirements. If more than 10 retainable trees must be removed, it is recognized that the exemption regulation does not apply and a permit and/or ministerial approval may be required.

42 This timing window does not apply where habitats have been identified as part of the habitat of a SAR. In that case, sediment control (ESC) measures and Mitigation and Monitoring Plans. These professionals also have the ability to address timing windows will be confirmed by MNRF. any issues on-site (including repair) without causing any additional adverse effects to the natural heritage features and 43 A “qualified” Environmental Inspector includes professional biologists, ecologists or technicians who understand functions. environmental policies and regulations and how they apply to the specific conditions on a site, including erosion and

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• Erosion and sediment control measures will be left in place until all areas of the construction site have been • If significant changes in water levels/seepage areas are noted, operations will cease until water levels stabilized and will then be removed. recover.

• The ESC Plan will outline a process of resolving issues of extended encroachment, including clean-up, Significant Valleylands: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: maintenance of ESC measures, and consideration of alternative ESC measures. • Geotechnical studies will be completed prior to Project construction to identify any design and mitigation • Wet weather restrictions shall be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near requirements in, and around, Valleylands. watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. • Detailed design plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA for voluntary review to confirm that all work • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed prior to Project is in compliance with O. Reg. 166/06 and O. Reg. 179/06, respectively. construction and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill response plans). • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided in • Deleterious substances (including stockpiled material) will be used and stored in a manner that prevents any Valleylands during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. of the substances from entering a natural feature. Barn Swallow Nests: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance of construction equipment will occur within • Field surveys will be undertaken prior to Project construction by a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist to confirm designated areas only. the number of nests present at the known locations and whether the nests remain active. • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency plans and have them in place prior to • During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure and bridges will be designed to avoid the loss of Barn construction of the BRCE Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be Swallow nesting sites to the greatest extent possible. reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance • Where loss or disturbance (i.e., due to any work on the culverts/bridges) cannot be avoided, the MNRF will with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response kit will be on be contacted and all requirements under the ESA, 2007 will be met, including any registration, compensation, site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. replacement structures and/or permitting requirements.

• Dust from the work areas will be controlled through suppressants (e.g., water). Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:

All requirements under the Invasive Species Act will be met, including the following mitigation measures: • Silt fence will be used as wildlife exclusion fencing within all areas identified as Linkage Areas.

• All disturbed areas of the construction site will be re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. • Speed limits will be posted along construction routes.

• A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials • Should wildlife species move into a construction zone, the Environmental Inspector will move species out of on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). work area.

• In accordance with the SMP, topsoil will be stockpiled separately from other soil materials and used for • Should a SAR be encountered that are not identified on relevant permits, all work will cease within the restoration to facilitate natural regeneration of native species through preservation of the existing seed bank. immediate work area and the MNRF will be contacted.

• Where re-vegetation is required, a native seed mix, which does not contain invasive species, will be used. Fish Habitat: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:

• If extensive invasion of non-native species is identified as a result of the BRCE Project, contingency measures • All in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the timing windows to be confirmed in the Aquatic may include an applicable herbicide application. A herbicide application plan will be developed as required Habitat Assessment Report to be completed prior to Project construction. and submitted to the applicable conservation authority for review. • The footprint of disturbed areas will be minimized to the extent possible. Vegetated buffers will be left in place All requirements under the Ontario Water Resources Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. O.40 with respect to the quality of water adjacent to watercourses/waterbodies to the maximum extent possible. discharging into natural receivers will be met, including the following mitigation measures and best practices: • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near • Any discharge from dewatering should outlet to a vegetated area at least 30 metres from a significant natural watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. feature or watercourse utilizing a sediment filter bag. • All culverts, bridges and in-water structures will be designed to meet appropriate storm design requirements • In the event of sediment discharge, all operations will stop immediately until the problem can be resolved. in order to avoid hydrologic affects.

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• An Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report will be prepared prior to Project construction to identify specific effects kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at and mitigation associated with detailed culvert and bridge design plans. 1-800-268-6060.

• All requirements under the Fisheries Act will be met including any Self-Assessments or permitting. Wildlife Habitat, Species at Risk and Nests of Migratory Birds: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:

Redside Dace Habitat: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: • Environmental noise will be reduced to the extent possible through standard operating practices such as regular train maintenance and limiting whistling in accordance with all safety protocols and requirements. • An Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report will be prepared prior to Project construction to outline specific mitigation related to fish habitat loss and/or disturbance. Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:

• Construction activities will occur in accordance with the Guidance for Development Activities in Redside Dace • Wildlife exclusion fencing will be installed along the boundaries of the Linkages Areas. This fencing will be Protected Habitat (MNR, 2016c). designed to exclude small and mid-sized mammals, reptiles and amphibians from the ROW and direct them to a nearby ecopassage. Wellhead Protection Areas: Prior to Project construction, a Hazardous Materials and Fuel Handling Plan will be developed to confirm that fuels and other hazardous materials are handled and stored in a safe manner during • Additional exclusion fencing will be installed adjacent to the two Deer Wintering Areas and will be designed the construction process. The plan will take into consideration the proximity to WHPA locations and associated to exclude deer from the ROW. Escape features (i.e., ramps to allow access over a section of fence) will be Vulnerable Areas. incorporated to assist deer that may inadvertently become trapped in the ROW.

6.1.2.3 Operations and Maintenance • Exclusion fencing and escape features will be developed prior to Project construction and will be designed in Mitigation to minimize effects during operations and maintenance will include the following: consultation with the TRCA/LSRCA and MNRF.

Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: • Passage structures that accommodate movement of wildlife will be incorporated into the detailed design of associated culverts or bridges located at the Linkage Areas. • Any major maintenance work that would result in the replacement or upgrade of major infrastructure components requiring earth-moving or in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the applicable • Passages will be designed to allow for the movements of small and mid-sized mammals, reptiles and mitigation measures listed under the construction phase. amphibians.

• Any required permitting or authorizations will be obtained, as required. • The TRCA and LSRCA will continue to be consulted prior to Project construction and throughout future construction phases. • Any herbicide applications to clear vegetation within the ROW will be applied in accordance with industry BMPs and regulations including conservation authority requirements. If herbicides are applied, only staff 6.1.3 Net Effects certified in their application will undertake the work. Herbicides will not be applied on windy days when there 6.1.3.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing is greater potential for drift to adjacent natural areas. Significant Natural Areas: There will be reduced on-site vegetation but an overall increase in natural areas • Any tree clearing or limb trimming will be limited to meet necessary safety clearances. through off-site compensation. As such, in the long-term there will be no net effects.

• Trees will be trimmed by a qualified professional to limit tree damage. Wildlife Habitat: There will be reduced on-site wildlife habitat but an overall increase in habitat through off-site compensation. As such, in the long-term there will be no net effects. • An Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed and followed throughout the operations and maintenance phase (includes spill response plans). • Species-specific net effects are as follows:

• Metrolinx will develop spill prevention and contingency plans for the ROW. Personnel will be trained in how  Confirmed Significant Deer Wintering and Yarding Areas: Wintering and Yarding Areas to be cleared to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and directly adjacent to the existing corridor are not expected to be well used by deer due to the existing facilitate continuous improvement. noise. Thus, no net effects are anticipated.

• Refueling and maintenance of trains will occur within designated areas only.  Confirmed Significant Osprey Nesting, Perching and Foraging: No net effects are anticipated as a replacement nesting site will be created, if required. • Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response  Confirmed Significant Terrestrial Crayfish Habitat: A small amount of Terrestrial Crayfish Habitat may be lost and will be determined prior to Project construction. Any disturbed habitat will be restored. Thus,

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there may be minor effects but they are not expected to affect terrestrial crayfish species at the population 6.1.4 Monitoring Activities level. 6.1.4.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing Species at Risk: All requirements under the ESA, 2007, will be met. With regard to Candidate Significant Habitats Significant Natural Areas: The following monitoring will be applied: for Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark, no nesting habitat is expected to be present within the areas to be cleared. • Pre-construction land clearing activities will be monitored by a qualified Environmental Inspector to confirm Thus, no net effects to SAR are anticipated. that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and within specified work zones. Nests of Migratory Birds: No net effects are anticipated. • The success of compensation vegetation of ecological communities will be monitored in accordance with the 6.1.3.2 Construction Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Any inadvertent damage is likely to be highly Wildlife Habitat: The following monitoring will be applied: localized and will be immediately addressed. Damaged areas will be returned to their previous condition. Metrolinx will carry out all work in accordance with the requirements of the Invasive Species Act. All dewatering • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to pre-construction land will be conducted in accordance with regulatory requirements. As such, no net effects are anticipated. clearing, to confirm that all work is conducted from within the specified work zones.

Significant Valleylands: All requirements for working in proximity to steep slopes and watercourses will be met. • The success of compensation habitat will be monitored in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Metrolinx will continue to consult TRCA/LSRCA prior to Project construction and throughout future construction Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. phases. As such, no net effects are anticipated. Species at Risk: Monitoring activities will be developed in accordance with any registration and/or permitting Barn Swallow Nests: All work in, and around Barn Swallow nests will be conducted in accordance with the ESA, requirements under the ESA, 2007. Butternut tree monitoring will be as determined by MNRF and Metrolinx in 2007. Thus, no net effects are anticipated. accordance with the Butternut Compensation Planting Plan.

Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: Construction activities will be carried out to avoid injury to Nests of Migratory Birds: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to pre- wildlife. Any wildlife inadvertently injured as a result of construction activities will be limited to a very small number construction land clearing, to confirm that activities do not encroach into nesting areas or disturb active nesting of individuals that will not affect species at the population level. sites.

Fish Habitat: All in-water and near-water works will be completed in accordance with the requirements of the 6.1.4.2 Construction Fisheries Act and industry BMPs. Thus, no net effects are anticipated. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: The following monitoring will be applied:

Redside Dace Habitat: All in-water and near-water works in and around Redside Dace Habitat will be conducted • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project construction, to in accordance with the ESA, 2007. Thus, no net effects are anticipated. confirm the ESC measures are functioning properly and are properly maintained throughout the construction phase. Wellhead Protection Areas: No net effects are anticipated. • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to Project construction, to 6.1.3.3 Operations and Maintenance confirm that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and all work is conducted from Net effects as a result of operations and maintenance activities are as follows: within the specified work zones. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Vegetation trimming is not expected to have • Workers will report any instances of spills to their supervisors. any significant effects. Any inadvertent damage is likely to be highly localized and will be immediately addressed. Damaged areas will be returned to their previous condition. As such, no net effects are anticipated. • Areas of re-vegetation will require watering and will be monitored by an Environmental Inspector for at least two years to confirm at least an 80% survival rate and confirm that non-native and invasive species are not Wildlife Habitat, Species at Risk and Nests of Migratory Birds: There may be a minor reduction in the use of becoming pervasive as a result of the BRCE Project, unless otherwise specified within the Vegetation adjacent habitats due to increased environmental noise. However, due to the existing (ambient) noise level, the Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. change is likely to be minimal. The net effect is expected to be minor and localized. • An Environmental Inspector will be on-site during any dewatering within 120 metres of natural features. The Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: Some mortality due to wildlife/train collisions is expected Environmental Inspector will confirm that the filter bag is working appropriately and that no sediment is but net effects are likely to be minimal with no significant effects on species at the population level. Fencing along entering significant natural features or watercourses. the full length of the corridor will create an overall loss of connectivity. With the proposed passage structures, the barrier effect is expected to be minimized.

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• An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections of dust emissions, to be defined prior to Project 6.2 GO Station Improvements construction, to confirm dust control watering frequency and rates are adequate. This section documents the potential effects on the natural environment due to pre-construction land clearing, construction and operations/maintenance of the proposed improvements at the nine existing GO Stations within Significant Valleylands: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to the study limits. The following nine GO Stations were included in this analysis: Project construction, to confirm that all work is conducted in accordance with plans and any recommendations provided through the conservation authority voluntary review. • Rutherford GO Station (City of Vaughan);

Barn Swallow Nests: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project • Maple GO Station (City of Vaughan); construction, to confirm that all work is conducted in accordance with the ESA, 2007, and any associated • King City GO Station (Township of King); permits/approvals. • Aurora GO Station (Town of Aurora); Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project construction, to confirm that all exclusion fencing is working • Newmarket GO Station (Town of Newmarket); appropriately. • East Gwillimbury GO Station (Town of East Gwillimbury); Fish Habitat: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project • Bradford GO Station (Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury); construction, to confirm that all work is conducted in accordance with the Fisheries Act and any associated permits/approvals. • Barrie South GO Station (City of Barrie); and

Redside Dace Habitat: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project • Allandale Waterfront GO Station (City of Barrie). construction, to confirm that all work is conducted in accordance with the ESA, 2007, and any associated 6.2.1 Potential Effects permits/approvals. 6.2.1.1 Potential Pre-Construction Land Clearing Effects Wellhead Protection Areas: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Significant Natural Areas: Construction of the GO Station improvements will result in a larger footprint to Project construction, to confirm that hazardous material transport and refueling is conducted outside of WHPAs accommodate the new platforms, tunnels, and other associated structures. As a result, portions of the following and in accordance with the Hazardous Materials and Fuel Handling Plan. Significant Natural Areas will be lost: 6.1.4.3 Operations and Maintenance • Unevaluated wetlands; Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: The following monitoring will be applied: • Significant Woodlands; and • Monitoring will be undertaken subject to the scale of the maintenance work. Monitoring similar to that required during construction may be required for large-scale maintenance and replacement work. • Significant Valleylands.

• Metrolinx track inspectors and rail staff are responsible for monitoring the effects of trimming and herbicide A summary of the Significant Natural Areas to be removed (lost) is provided in Table 6-4 while further details are application. Any significant concerns will be reported to superiors for timely resolution. provided in Appendices H and I of this Report, respectively.

• Track inspectors and rail staff including maintenance contractors are responsible for reporting spills and other Construction laydown areas and easements will be identified prior to Project construction. There is potential that issues, and ensuring their timely resolution. these areas may result in the loss of or disturbance to, all natural area types present within the study area.

Wildlife Habitat, Species at Risk and Nests of Migratory Birds: No Monitoring is required. Wildlife Habitat: A number of Candidate and Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitats and Habitats of SCC are located within the Significant Natural Areas described previously in Section 6.2.1.1. An additional 0.81 ha of Linkage Areas and Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: The following monitoring will be undertaken: habitat is present within open woodland, meadow and thicket communities outside of Significant Natural Areas. • Wildlife passages will be monitored by Metrolinx for two years following their installation to confirm that they Table 6-4 provides a summary, while additional details can be found in Appendices J, K and L.2, of this Report, are functioning appropriately. respectively.

• Exclusion fencing will be monitored by Metrolinx for two years following installation to confirm that it is Species at Risk: A number of areas identified as Candidate Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species will functioning appropriately, as designed. be cleared. These areas may provide a wildlife habitat function but their significance has not been confirmed. A summary is provided in Table 6-4. • Metrolinx will carry out regular, ongoing inspections to confirm all structures are in good working order.

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Nests of Migratory Birds: Nests could be harmed or destroyed as a result of vegetation clearing. This is in Area to be contravention of the MBCA, 1994. Station Significant and Candidate Significant Natural Features Removed (ha) Table 6-4: Summary of Natural Area to be Removed to Accommodate the GO Station Improvements Allandale Area to be Waterfront No Significant Natural Features. N/A Station Significant and Candidate Significant Natural Features Removed GO Station (ha) 1 Significant Natural Features are present within the vicinity of this station but will be removed as a result of the rail Significant Natural Area, including overlapping areas: infrastructure and not the GO Station. • Significant Woodlands; Additional Trees at King City GO Station: A total of 32 trees were removed in winter 2015/2016 to • Significant Valleylands; 0.19 accommodate the construction of a new parking lot at the King City GO Station (former residential property located • Candidate Habitat of SCC (Eastern Wood Peewee, Wood Thrush); and at 55 Station Road). A compensation strategy was developed in consultation with the TRCA and a total of • Candidate Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species (Bat Habitat). 96 trees were needed to compensate for the removals based on this strategy. It is noted that 35 trees were added Rutherford to the on-site vegetative buffer, as designed in the Landscape Plan. The remaining trees that could not be GO Station Significant Natural Area, including overlapping areas: • Unevaluated Wetlands; accommodated on-site as compensation for the 55 Station Road property will be carried forward as part of the • Significant Valleylands; compensation obligation for the BRCE Project. Placement (planting) of these remaining compensation trees will 0.19 • Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat (Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas, be considered based on further discussions with the TRCA and the Township of King prior to Project construction. Marsh Bird Breeding Habitat); and Additional details can be found in the Tree Inventory Plan and Arborist Report found in Appendix B of the BRCE • Candidate Habitat of SCC (Painted Skimmer, Green-striped Darner). EPR. Maple GO No Significant Natural Features. N/A 6.2.1.2 Potential Construction Effects Station Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: All Significant Natural Areas and Significant King City GO No Significant Natural Features.1 N/A and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat, Habitat of SCC, and Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species Station could be affected during construction as follows: Aurora GO No Significant Natural Features. N/A Station • Grading and soil disturbance during construction can lead to erosion and sedimentation within significant Newmarket natural features and watercourses. This can affect the quality of habitat, disturb ground vegetation, and No Significant Natural Features. N/A GO Station negatively affect the quality of fish habitat.

East • Stockpiled materials, equipment or construction activities could accidentally encroach into natural areas Gwillimbury Significant Valleyland (East Holland River). 0.47 beyond the proposed ROW limits. This could add to the disturbance to natural features and increase the GO Station quantity lost as a result of the Project. Soils beyond the proposed ROW limits could also become compacted Wildlife Habitats outside of Significant Natural Areas: or disturbed if activities extend beyond the approved Project limits. • Candidate Habitat for SCC (Eastern Wood Peewee, Red-headed Woodpecker, 0.43 Golden-winged Warbler). • There is potential for spills of fuels or other hazardous materials to occur during fueling of construction Bradford GO Station Wildlife Habitats outside of Significant Natural Areas: equipment or other construction activities. This can affect groundwater quality and the health of vegetation • Drainage feature (part of Holland Marsh drainage system), providing Candidate 0.002 and wildlife within natural areas. Habitat for Endangered and Threatened Species (Blanding’s Turtle, King Rail, Least Bittern). • Any disturbance to lands and vegetation clearing has the potential to allow invasive species to be introduced Wildlife Habitats outside of Significant Natural Areas: and spread through natural areas. Invasive species can prevent other native species from re-establishing; • Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat (Shrub/Early Successional Bird Breeding 0.35 • Tunnels will be constructed at each GO Station to allow passengers to safely cross the corridor to access Barrie South Habitat); and new platforms. Tunneling will require dewatering and the discharge of that water to the environment. GO Station • Candidate Habitat for SCC (Red-headed Woodpecker, Golden-winged Warbler). Dewatering may be required for other sub-surface work. Wildlife Habitats outside of Significant Natural Areas: 0.03 Dust created as a result of construction has the potential to settle on adjacent vegetation, disturbing wildlife • Candidate Habitat for SCC (Red-headed Woodpecker, Golden-winged Warbler). • and their habitat.

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Significant Valleylands: There is a Significant Valleyland associated with Westminster Creek at the Rutherford • Detailed clearing, ESC Plans and Restoration Plans will be developed in accordance with the Vegetation GO Station. The valley feature could be disturbed by vegetation removal, grading work and the movement of Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects and approved Landscape Plans developed prior to Project large equipment. This could result in erosion, slumping or slope failure. construction.

Fish Habitat: It is noted that fish habitat is present at the Rutherford, King City, East Gwillimbury and Bradford • In wetlands: GO Stations. Thus, new platforms may result in the need to extend culverts or to carry out construction activities  Wetlands will be restored as necessary to maintain the stability and function of the wetland and will be in, and around, water. This work has the potential to harm fish habitat. developed in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects and 6.2.1.3 Potential Operations and Maintenance Effects approved Landscape Plans developed prior to Project construction. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: All Significant Natural Areas and Significant • In woodlands: and Candidate Significant Wildlife Habitat, Habitat of SCC, and Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species could be affected by operations and maintenance activities, as follows:  Applicable TPZs will be established in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. • A qualified Environmental Inspector44 is required throughout the construction period to ensure that protection measures are implemented, maintained and enforced.  Barriers will be installed around trees to be protected using plywood clad boarding or an equivalent material approved by the affected municipality. • Any grading or earth moving required for maintenance purposes can result in sedimentation within adjacent natural features, degrading habitats and harming vegetation and wildlife.  No stockpiles, storage or disturbance to grade will occur within the TPZ to minimize soil compaction and root damage. • Work will be undertaken to keep areas around the GO Stations clear and free of any vegetation that could disrupt sight lines or interrupt the movement of train traffic. Trees adjacent to the GO Stations may need to • All construction laydown areas and easements will be located to avoid natural features (Candidate and be trimmed and any new vegetation may need to be cleared. Trimming has the potential to harm healthy Confirmed) to the extent possible. trees and allow disease or rot to expand. Any use of chemical pesticides to maintain GO Station areas also • Where avoidance is not possible, any land clearing will occur in accordance with the timing windows listed in has the potential to affect groundwater and adjacent natural features if not applied correctly. Table 6-3. • Spills of fuel and other hazardous materials could occur as a result of maintenance activities. Spills have the • Any construction laydown areas or easements located within the Candidate or Confirmed Habitat of potential to affect ground and surface water quality and kill or harm vegetation and wildlife. Endangered or Threatened Species will be subject to applicable requirements under the ESA, 2007. 6.2.2 Mitigation Measures Wildlife Habitat: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: The mitigation measures developed to address each of the potential effects associated with the improvements at the nine GO Stations are provided below. • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window, generally from April 1st to August 31st45. 6.2.2.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing Significant Natural Areas: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: • If clearing must occur within this window, a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be avoided until the • Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through implementation of the Vegetation Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is identified within or adjacent to the • Clearing and grubbing will occur from the track-side of the natural area and a detailed ESC Plan will be construction site, all activities will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified Ecologist) shall developed to limit damage to the remaining natural areas. discuss mitigation measures with Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department staff. In • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work addition, Metrolinx will consult with the MNRF and ECCC to discuss applicable mitigation options. The will occur outside the work zone.

44 A “qualified” Environmental Inspector includes professional biologists, ecologists or technicians who understand any issues on-site (including repair) without causing any additional adverse effects to the natural heritage features and environmental policies and regulations and how they apply to the specific conditions on a site, including erosion and functions. sediment control (ESC) measures and Mitigation and Monitoring Plans. These professionals also have the ability to address 45 This timing window does not apply where habitats have been identified as part of the habitat of a SAR. In that case, timing windows will be confirmed by the MNRF.

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Contractor will proceed based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx, Nests of Migratory Birds: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: the MNRF and/or ECCC. • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window, generally from April 1st to • Habitats with a critical timing window at a different time of year (e.g., early spring migration and wintering August 31st46. habitats) will be assessed by a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist prior to any clearing to confirm that the • If clearing must occur within this window, a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected habitat is not in use. If the habitat is being used for critical life functions (i.e., nesting, migration stopover, area. Any active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be avoided until the hibernation, overwintering), the area will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. avoided until the area is no longer in use. These additional timing windows are listed in Table 6-3. Specific habitats that require inspection during these times are listed in Appendices J, K and L.2, of this Report, • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is identified within or adjacent to the respectively. construction site, all activities will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified Ecologist) shall discuss mitigation measures with Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department staff. In • Compensation for habitats located within Natural Areas will follow the mitigation measures detailed under the addition, Metrolinx will consult with the MNRF and ECCC to discuss applicable mitigation options. The Significant Natural Areas heading in Section 6.2.2.1. Contractor will proceed based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx,  Where habitats do not coincide with a Significant Natural Area, compensation measures will be the MNRF and/or ECCC. developed, as appropriate. Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through Additional Trees at King City GO Station: There are 61 trees that could not be accommodated and implementation of the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. compensated on-site as part of the 55 Station Road parking lot expansion at the King City GO Station. These 61 Species at Risk: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: trees will be carried forward as a compensation obligation for the BRCE Project, and will be addressed in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. • Detailed field surveys will be undertaken prior to Project construction by a qualified Ecologist to confirm the presence of the following species: 6.2.2.2 Construction Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:  King Rail; • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials  Least Bittern; on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal).  Eastern Whip-poor-will; • The SMP will include a strategy to prevent Bank Swallow nesting in stockpiled or exposed soils.  Blanding’s Turtle; and • Erosion and Sediment Control Plans and Dewatering Plans will be developed prior to Project construction in consultation with the TRCA and LSRCA and will conform to industry BMPs and recognized standard  Little Brown Myotis, Northern Myotis, and Tri-colored Bat. specifications. The ESC Plan shall also take into account the GGHACA Erosion and Sediment Control • Findings of field surveys will be reported to the MNRF. Guidelines for Urban Construction (2006).

• During the detailed design phase, the GO Station improvements will be designed to avoid the loss of any • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work Confirmed Habitat of Endangered or Threatened Species to the extent possible. will occur outside the work zone.

• Where loss cannot be avoided, the MNRF will be contacted and all requirements under the ESA, 2007, will • Erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented prior to Project construction and maintained be met, including any species-specific registration, compensation and/or permitting requirements. during the construction phase in accordance with the ESC Plan.

• Timing windows for any necessary removal of any Confirmed Endangered or Threatened Species habitat will • If the erosion and sediment control measures or dewatering measures are not functioning properly, no further be developed in consultation with the MNRF in association with any self-registration or permitting work in the affected areas will occur until the problem is addressed. requirements. • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be stabilized and re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. • Should a SAR be encountered that is not identified on relevant permits, all work will cease within the immediate work area and the MNRF will be contacted.

46 This timing window does not apply where habitats have been identified as part of the habitat of a SAR. In that case, timing windows will be confirmed by the MNRF.

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• Erosion and sediment control measures will be left in place until all areas of the construction site have been • Any discharge from dewatering should outlet to a vegetated area at least 30 metres from a significant natural stabilized and will then be removed. feature or watercourse utilizing a sediment filter bag.

• Wet weather restrictions shall be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near • In the event of sediment discharge, all operations will stop immediately until the problem can be resolved. watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. • If significant changes in water levels/seepage areas are noted, operations will cease until water levels • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed prior to Project recover. construction and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill response plans). Significant Valleylands: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: • The ESC Plan will outline a process of resolving issues of extended encroachment, including clean-up, • Geotechnical studies will be completed prior to Project construction to identify any design and mitigation maintenance of ESC measures, and consideration of alternative ESC measures. requirements in, and around, Valleylands. • Dust from the work areas will be controlled through suppressants (e.g., water). • Detailed design plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA for voluntary review in order to confirm that • Deleterious substances (including stockpiled material) will be used and stored in a manner that prevents any all work is in compliance with O. Reg. 166/06 and O. Reg. 179/06. of the substances from entering a natural feature. • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided in • A Hazardous Materials and Fuel Handling Plan will be developed prior to Project construction, to confirm that Valleylands during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. fuels and other hazardous materials are handled and stored in a safe manner during the construction process. Fish Habitat: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: The plan will take into consideration the proximity to WHPA locations and associated Vulnerable Areas. Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance of construction equipment will occur within • All in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the timing windows to be determined in the Aquatic designated areas only. Habitat Assessment Report to be completed prior to Project construction.

• The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency plans and have them in place prior to • The footprint of disturbed areas will be minimized to the extent possible. Vegetated buffers will be left in place construction of the BRCE Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be adjacent to watercourses/waterbodies to the maximum extent possible. reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. • All culverts, bridges and in-water structures will be designed to meet appropriate storm design requirements in order to avoid hydrologic affects. All requirements under the Invasive Species Act will be met, including the following mitigation measures: • An Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report will be prepared prior to Project construction to identify specific effects • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. and mitigation measures associated with detailed culvert and bridge design plans. • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials • All requirements under the Fisheries Act will be met including any Self-Assessments or permitting. on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). 6.2.2.3 Operations and Maintenance • In accordance with the SMP, topsoil will be stockpiled separately from other soil materials and used for Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: restoration to facilitate natural regeneration of native species through preservation of the existing seed bank. • Any major maintenance work that would result in the replacement or upgrade of major infrastructure • Where re-vegetation is required, a native seed mix, which does not contain invasive species, will be used. components requiring earth-moving or in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the applicable • If extensive invasion of non-native species is identified as a result of the BRCE Project, contingency measures mitigation measures listed under the construction phase. may include an applicable herbicide application. A herbicide application plan will be developed as required • Any required permitting or authorizations will be obtained, as required. and submitted to the applicable conservation authority for review. • Any herbicide applications to clear vegetation within the GO Station lands will be applied in accordance with All requirements under the Ontario Water Resources Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. O.40 with respect to the quality of water industry BMPs and regulations including conservation authority requirements. If herbicides are applied, only discharging into natural receivers will be met, including the following mitigation measures and best practices: staff certified in their application will undertake the work. Herbicides will not be applied on windy days when there is greater potential for drift to adjacent natural areas.

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• Any tree clearing or limb trimming will be limited to meet necessary safety clearances. 6.2.3.3 Operations and Maintenance Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Vegetation trimming is not expected to have • Trees will be trimmed by a qualified professional to limit tree damage. any significant effects. Any inadvertent damage is likely to be highly localized and will be immediately addressed. • An Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed and followed throughout the Damaged areas will be returned to their previous condition. As such, no net effects are anticipated. operations and maintenance phase (includes spill response plans). 6.2.4 Monitoring Activities • Metrolinx will develop spill prevention and contingency plans for the GO Stations. Personnel will be trained in 6.2.4.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing how to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and Significant Natural Areas: The following monitoring will be applied: facilitate continuous improvement. • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to pre-construction landing • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance of equipment will occur within designated clearing, to confirm that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and all work is areas only. conducted from within the specified work zones. • Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in • The success of compensation vegetation will be monitored in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. • An Environmental Inspector will inspect and confirm ESC measures are functioning properly and are properly maintained throughout the construction phase and that all work is conducted from within the specified work 6.2.3 Net Effects zones. 6.2.3.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing Wildlife Habitat: the following monitoring will be applied: Significant Natural Areas: There will be reduced on-site vegetation but an overall increase in natural areas through off-site compensation. As such, in the long-term there will be no net effects. • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to pre-construction land clearing, to confirm that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and all work is Wildlife Habitat: There will be reduced on-site wildlife habitat but an overall increase in habitat through off-site conducted from within the specified work zones. compensation. As such, in the long-term there will be no net effects. • The success of compensation vegetation will be monitored in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Species at Risk: All requirements under the ESA, 2007, will be met, thus no net effects are anticipated. Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. Nests of Migratory Birds: With implementation of the recommended mitigation measures, no net effects are Species at Risk: Monitoring activities will be developed in accordance with any registration and/or permitting anticipated. requirements under the ESA, 2007. Additional Trees at King City GO Station: Planting of the required trees will result in an overall long-term gain. Nests of Migratory Birds: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to pre- As such, in the long-term there will be no net effects. construction land clearing, to confirm that activities do not encroach into nesting areas or disturb active nesting 6.2.3.2 Construction sites. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Any inadvertent damage is likely to be highly Additional Trees at King City GO Station: The success of compensation vegetation will be monitored in localized and will be immediately addressed. Damaged areas will be returned to their previous condition. Metrolinx accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. will carry out all work in accordance with the requirements of the Invasive Species Act. All dewatering will be conducted in accordance with regulatory requirements. As such, no net effects are anticipated. 6.2.4.2 Construction Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: The following monitoring will be applied: Significant Valleylands: All requirements for working in proximity to steep slopes and watercourses will be met. Metrolinx will continue to consult with the TRCA/LSRCA prior to Project construction and throughout future • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project construction, to construction phases. No net effects are anticipated. confirm ESC measures are functioning properly and are properly maintained throughout the construction phase. Fish Habitat: All in-water and near-water works will be completed in accordance with the requirements of the Fisheries Act and industry BMPs. Therefore, no net effects are anticipated.

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• An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to Project construction, to A tributary of the West Holland River flows on the opposite side of the corridor from the layover site within a confirm that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and all work is conducted from portion of the provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex. within the specified work zone. 6.3.1 Potential Effects • Workers will report any instances of spills to their supervisors. 6.3.1.1 Potential Pre-Construction Land Clearing Effects • Areas of re-vegetation will require watering and will be monitored by an Environmental Inspector for at least Due to construction of the Bradford Layover Facility, a small number of natural features will be removed. All are two years to confirm at least an 80% survival rate and confirm that non-native and invasive species are not human-influenced and their ecological significance has not yet been determined. In total 4.60 ha of natural area becoming pervasive as a result of the Project, unless otherwise specified within the Vegetation Compensation will be removed. This includes a 0.90 ha square-shaped unevaluated wetland, created through grading during Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. development of the Artesian Industrial Park. An additional 3.70 ha of cultural meadow and thicket will be removed. Natural area removals are summarized in Table 6-5 and detailed in Appendices H through L, of this Report. The • An Environmental Inspector will be on-site during any dewatering within 120 metres of natural features. The potential effects of land clearing on these natural features are described in the preceding paragraphs. Environmental Inspector will confirm that the filter bag is working appropriately and that no sediment is entering significant natural features or watercourses. Table 6-5: Summary of Natural Area to be Removed to Accommodate the Bradford Layover Facility

• An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections of dust emissions, to be defined prior to Project Municipality Natural Feature Area to be Removed (ha) construction, to confirm dust control watering frequency and rates are adequate. Human-made, unevaluated wetland providing Candidate Habitat for: Significant Valleylands: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to • Blanding’s Turtle; 0.90 Project construction, to confirm that all work is conducted in accordance with plans and any recommendations • Least Bittern; and provided through the conservation authority voluntary review. Town of Bradford West • King Rail. Gwillimbury Fish Habitat: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project Cultural Meadow and Thicket providing construction, to confirm that all work is conducted in accordance with the Fisheries Act and any associated Candidate Habitat for: 3.70 permits/approvals. • Eastern Meadowlark; and 6.2.4.3 Operations and Maintenance • Shrub/Early Successional Birds. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife Habitats and Species at Risk: The following monitoring will be applied: TOTAL 4.60 • Monitoring will be undertaken subject to the scale of the maintenance work. Monitoring similar to that required during construction may be required for large-scale maintenance and replacement work. Human-made Wetland, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Potential effects on the unevaluated wetland, Candidate SWH and Candidate Habitat for Endangered and Threatened Species could include the following: • Contractors, GO Station staff and maintenance contractors are responsible for monitoring the effects of trimming and herbicide application. Any significant concerns will be reported to superiors for timely resolution. • In the unevaluated wetland: The entire human-made wetland, totaling 0.90 ha will be removed. The wetland is a square-shaped depression created through grading. In general, it does not provide any unique or • GO Station staff and maintenance contractors are responsible for reporting spills and other issues and ecologically important features or functions; however, given its close proximity to the provincially significant ensuring their timely resolution. Holland Marsh Wetland Complex it could potentially provide habitat for Blanding’s Turtles, King Rail and Least 6.3 Bradford Layover Facility Bittern. This section documents the potential effects on the natural environment resulting from pre-construction land • In the Cultural Meadow and Thicket Areas: A cultural thicket and portions of an adjacent cultural meadow will clearing, construction and operations/maintenance of the proposed Bradford Layover Facility. The train layover be removed. These areas were cleared in the past, likely as part of the initial development of the industrial facility is expected to be constructed as part of Phase One of the BRCE Project, and is primarily comprised of park. They are in a state of early succession and could potentially provide habitat for Shrub/Early lands that are currently used for industrial purposes. A cultural meadow and cultural thicket are present at the Successional Breeding Birds and the provincially Threatened Eastern Meadowlark47. southern end of the proposed layover lands on vacant industrial properties which have been cleared in the past.

47 The area is likely too small to support Bobolink but may be sufficient to support Eastern Meadowlark which can tolerate slightly smaller habitat areas.

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Nests of Migratory Birds: Nests could be harmed or destroyed as a result of vegetation clearing. This is in 6.3.2 Mitigation Measures contravention of the MBCA, 1994. Details regarding the mitigation measures developed to address each of the potential effects associated with the Bradford Layover Facility are provided below. 6.3.1.2 Potential Construction Effects Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: The adjacent provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland 6.3.2.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing Complex and fish habitat could be affected as follows: Human-made Wetland, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: Mitigation will include the following:

• Grading and soil disturbance during construction could lead to erosion and sedimentation to the adjacent • Species-specific site investigations will be undertaken prior to Project construction. If any Endangered or provincially significant Holland Marsh Wetland Complex and tributary of the West Holland River. This could Threatened Species are found, compensation will be provided as required under the ESA, 2007. affect the quality of habitat, disturb ground vegetation and negatively affect the quality of fish habitat. Compensation will be developed in conjunction with the MNRF through the permitting and/or registration process. If Endangered or Threatened Species are not found, removal of the wetland will be addressed • There is potential for spills of fuels or other hazardous materials to occur during fueling of construction through the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects to be developed in consultation equipment or other construction activities. This can affect groundwater quality and the health of vegetation with applicable agencies. and wildlife in the PSW and watercourse. • If Eastern Meadowlark is found, compensation will be provided as required under the ESA, 2007. • Dewatering required during the construction of any deep foundations or footings or other below-ground (sub- Compensation will be developed in conjunction with the MNRF through the permitting and/or registration surface) works has the potential to affect groundwater levels, wetland water levels and the hydrology of the process. watercourse. • If Eastern Meadowlark is not found but the criteria for Significant Shrub/Early Successional Bird Breeding Provincially Significant Wetland: The adjacent PSW could be affected as follows: Habitat is met, the removal of habitat will be addressed through the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for • Dust created as a result of construction has the potential to settle on adjacent vegetation, disturbing wildlife Metrolinx RER Projects to be developed in consultation with applicable agencies. and their habitat. Nests of Migratory Birds: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: • Stockpiled materials, equipment or construction activities could accidentally encroach into natural areas • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window, generally from April 1st to beyond the proposed property limits. This could add to the disturbance to natural features and increase the August 31st (regardless of the calendar year)48. quantity lost as a result of the Project. Soils beyond the proposed property limits could also become compacted or disturbed if activities extend beyond approved limits. • If clearing must occur within this window, a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be avoided until the • Any disturbance to lands and vegetation clearing has the potential to allow invasive species to be introduced Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. and spread through natural areas. Invasive species can prevent other native species from re-establishing. • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is identified within or adjacent to the Fish Habitat: A small watercourse runs through the site. It appears to provide direct fish habitat, although the construction site, all activities will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified Ecologist) shall culvert under the rail corridor may present a seasonal barrier to fish migration. This watercourse cannot be discuss mitigation measures with Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department staff. In maintained in its current location in order to accommodate the train layover facility. addition, Metrolinx will consult with the MNRF and ECCC to discuss applicable mitigation options. The 6.3.1.3 Potential Operations and Maintenance Effects Contractor will proceed based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx, Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: Spills of fuel and other hazardous materials could occur as the MNRF and/or ECCC. a result of maintenance activities. Spills have the potential to affect ground and surface water quality and kill or 6.3.2.2 Construction harm vegetation and wildlife. Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: Mitigation will be implemented as follows:

• A qualified Environmental Inspector49 is required throughout the construction period to ensure that protection measures are implemented, maintained and enforced.

48 This timing window does not apply where habitats have been identified as part of the habitat of a SAR. In that case, sediment control (ESC) measures and Mitigation and Monitoring Plans. These professionals also have the ability to address timing windows will be confirmed by the MNRF. any issues on-site (including repair) without causing any additional adverse effects to the natural heritage features and 49 A “qualified” Environmental Inspector includes professional biologists, ecologists or technicians who understand functions. environmental policies and regulations and how they apply to the specific conditions on a site, including erosion and

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• A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials All requirements under the Ontario Water Resources Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. O.40 with respect to the quality of water on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). discharging into natural receivers will be met, including the following mitigation measures and best practices:

• The SMP will include a strategy to prevent Bank Swallow nesting in stockpiled or exposed soils. • Any discharge from dewatering should outlet to a vegetated area at least 30 metres from a significant natural feature or watercourse utilizing a sediment filter bag. • Erosion and Sediment Control Plans and Dewatering Plans will be developed prior to Project construction in consultation with the TRCA and LSRCA and will conform to industry BMPs and recognized standard • In the event of sediment discharge, all operations will stop immediately until the problem can be resolved. specifications. The ESC Plan shall also take into account the GGHACA Erosion and Sediment Control • If significant changes in water levels/seepage areas are noted, operations will cease until water levels Guidelines for Urban Construction (2006). recover. • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work Provincially Significant Wetland: All requirements under the Invasive Species Act will be met, including the will occur outside the work zone. following mitigation measures: • Erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented prior to Project construction and maintained • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. during the construction phase in accordance with the ESC Plan. • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials • If the erosion and sediment control measures or dewatering measures are not functioning properly, no further on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). work in the affected areas will occur until the problem is addressed. • In accordance with the SMP, topsoil will be stockpiled separately from other soil materials and used for • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be stabilized and re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. restoration to facilitate natural regeneration of native species through preservation of the existing seed bank. • Erosion and sediment control measures will be left in place until all areas of the construction site have been • Where re-vegetation is required, a native seed mix, which does not contain invasive species, will be used; stabilized and will then be removed. and if extensive invasion of non-native species is identified as a result of the Project, contingency measures • Wet weather restrictions shall be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near may include an applicable herbicide application. A herbicide application plan will be developed as required watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. and submitted to the applicable conservation authority for review.

• A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed prior to Project Fish Habitat: The watercourse will be relocated in accordance with all Fisheries Act requirements. Specific construction and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill response plans). mitigation measures and permitting requirements will be identified in the Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report to be prepared prior to Project construction. The watercourse is regulated by the LSRCA. Although Metrolinx is not • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency plans and have them in place prior to required to meet the LSRCA regulations, all plans associated with this watercourse will be sent to the LSRCA for construction of the BRCE Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be voluntary review with the intent of meeting the spirit of regulatory requirements. reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or depositions into watercourses will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial 6.3.2.3 Operations and Maintenance regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: Mitigation will be implemented as follows: at 1-800-268-6060. • An Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed and followed throughout the • Dust from the work areas will be controlled through suppressants (e.g., water). operations and maintenance phase (includes spill response plans).

• The ESC Plan will outline a process of resolving issues of extended encroachment, including clean-up, • Metrolinx will develop spill prevention and contingency plans for the train layover facility. Personnel will be maintenance of ESC measures, and consideration of alternative ESC measures. trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed and implemented prior to Project construction and implemented throughout the construction phase (includes spill response plans). • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance of equipment will occur within designated areas only. • Deleterious substances (including stockpiled material) will be used and stored in a manner that prevents any of the substances from entering a natural feature. • Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance of construction equipment will occur within designated areas only.

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kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at • The success of compensation vegetation will be monitored in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation 1-800-268-6060. Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects.

6.3.3 Net Effects Nests of Migratory Birds: An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to pre- construction land clearing, to confirm that activities do not encroach into nesting areas or disturb active nesting 6.3.3.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing sites. Human-made Wetland, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: The wetland is human-made and relatively young with a lack of diversity. As such, it is expected that any compensation would result in a higher quality wetland with 6.3.4.2 Construction a greater wildlife habitat function. Compensation locations will be identified to ensure there is no net loss within Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: The following monitoring will be applied: each watershed. • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections, to be defined prior to Project construction, to If the habitat is confirmed to be significant, compensation will be provided in accordance with the Vegetation confirm ESC measures are functioning properly and are properly maintained throughout the construction Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. The meadow and thicket community is disturbed and includes phase. a high number of non-native and invasive species. As such, it is expected that any compensation would result in • An Environmental Inspector is required to inspect and confirm ESC measures are functioning properly and a higher quality meadow habitat with a greater wildlife habitat function. are properly maintained throughout the construction phase. Workers will report any instances of spills to their Nests of Migratory Birds: Land clearing activities will be carried out to avoid injury to wildlife. Any wildlife supervisors. inadvertently injured as a result of land clearing activities will be limited to a very small number of individuals that • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular inspections of dust emissions, to be defined prior to Project will not affect species at the population level. Tree removals will take place outside of the breeding bird timing construction, to confirm dust control watering frequency and rates are adequate. window to the extent practical to avoid effects to migratory birds. • An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to Project construction, to 6.3.3.2 Construction confirm that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and all work is conducted from Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: Any inadvertent damage is likely to be highly localized and within the specified work zones. will be immediately addressed. Damaged areas will be returned to their previous condition. All dewatering will be conducted in accordance with regulatory requirements. As such, no net effects are anticipated. • An Environmental Inspector will be on-site during any dewatering within 120 metres of natural features. The Environmental Inspector will confirm that the filter bag is working appropriately and confirm that no sediment Provincially Significant Wetland: Metrolinx will carry out all work in accordance with the requirements of the is entering significant natural features or watercourses. Invasive Species Act. As such, no net effects are anticipated. Provincially Significant Wetland: Areas of re-vegetation will require watering and will be monitored by an Fish Habitat: All work will be carried out in accordance with the Fisheries Act, thus no net effects are anticipated. Environmental Inspector for at least two years to confirm at least an 80% survival rate and confirm that non-native 6.3.3.3 Operations and Maintenance and invasive species are not becoming pervasive as a result of the Project, unless otherwise specified within the Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: Any inadvertent damage is likely to be highly localized and Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. will be immediately addressed. Damaged areas will be returned to their previous condition. As such, no net effects Fish Habitat: Monitoring activities will be developed in the Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report to be prepared are anticipated. prior to Project construction. A monitoring program will be developed to meet all requirements of the Fisheries 6.3.4 Monitoring Activities Act and any permit or approval conditions. 6.3.4.1 Pre-Construction Land Clearing 6.3.4.3 Operations and Maintenance Human-made Wetland, Wildlife Habitat and Species at Risk: If Endangered or Threatened Species are found, Provincially Significant Wetland and Fish Habitat: Layover facility staff and maintenance contractors are monitoring activities will be developed in accordance with any registration and/or permitting requirements under responsible for reporting spills and other issues and ensuring their timely resolution. the ESA, 2007. If no Endangered or Threatened Species are found, the following monitoring will be applied:

• An Environmental Inspector will conduct regular monitoring, to be defined prior to pre-construction land clearing, to confirm that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and all work is conducted from within the specified work zones.

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6.4 Summary of Potential Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring Activities The potential effects, mitigation measures and recommended monitoring activities as they pertain to the proposed construction works, and operations and maintenance phases of the Rail Infrastructure, GO Station Improvements and Bradford Layover Facility are summarized in Table 6-6, Table 6-7 and Table 6-8, respectively. Mitigation measures are necessary prior to BRCE Project implementation to reduce the potential effects associated with theproposed works. Additionally, recommended monitoring activities help to confirm the mitigation measures are working effectively.

Table 6-6: Rail Infrastructure - Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring Activities of the Preferred Design

Description of Potential Mitigation Monitoring Feature Mitigation Measures Net Effects Monitoring Activities Effects Responsibility Responsibility

Pre-Construction Land Clearing

Significant Natural Removal of portions of PSW, • A qualified Environmental Inspector is required throughout the Metrolinx/Contractor • There will be reduced on- • Pre-construction land Contractor/Consultant Areas Non-Significant and construction period to ensure that protection measures are site vegetation but an overall clearing activities will be (Environmental unevaluated wetlands, implemented, maintained and enforced. increase in natural areas monitored by a qualified Inspector) Significant Woodlands, ANSIs • Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through off-site Environmental Inspector to and Significant Valleylands. through implementation of the Vegetation Compensation Protocol compensation. confirm that all activities are for Metrolinx RER Projects. conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and • Clearing and grubbing will occur from the track-side of the natural within specified work zones. area and a detailed ESC Plan will be developed to limit damage to the remaining natural areas. • The success of compensation vegetation will • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings be monitored in accordance and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the with the Vegetation work zone. Compensation Protocol for • Detailed clearing, ESC Plans and Restoration Plans will be Metrolinx RER Projects. developed in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects and approved Landscape Plans developed prior to Project construction. • In wetlands:  Wetlands will be restored as necessary to maintain the stability and function of the wetland and will be developed in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects and approved Landscape Plans developed prior to Project construction. • In woodlands:  TPZs will be established in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects.  Barriers will be installed around trees to be protected using plywood clad boarding or an equivalent material approved by the affected municipality.  No stockpiles, storage or disturbance to grade will occur within the TPZ to minimize soil compaction and root damage. • In Valleylands:

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Description of Potential Mitigation Monitoring Feature Mitigation Measures Net Effects Monitoring Activities Effects Responsibility Responsibility

 Work on steep slopes will be limited to the extent possible. In areas subject to conservation authority regulations, detailed clearing, ESC Plans and Restoration Plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA for voluntary review. Construction laydown areas and • All construction laydown areas and easements will be located to Metrolinx/Consultant • Any disturbed or damaged • An Environmental Inspector Consultant easements identified prior to avoid natural features (Candidate and Confirmed) to the extent (Detailed areas will be returned to is required to inspect and (Environmental Project construction could possible. Design)/Contractor their previous condition. As confirm ESC measures are Inspector) potentially result in the loss of or • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings such, no net effects are functioning properly and are disturbance to, natural areas and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the anticipated. properly maintained present within the study area. work zone. throughout the construction phase and that all work is • Any construction laydown areas or easements located within the conducted from within the Candidate or Confirmed Habitat of Endangered or Threatened specified work zones. Species will be subject to applicable requirements under the ESA, 2007. Wildlife Habitat Removal of portions of • Where habitats could not be identified due to access restrictions Metrolinx/Consultant • There will be reduced on- • An Environmental Inspector Consultant Significant and Candidate (e.g., reptile hibernacula, rare woodlands, seeps and springs), pre- (Detailed site wildlife habitat but an will conduct regular (Environmental Significant Wildlife Habitat and construction surveys will be conducted. Any significant findings will Design)/Contractor overall increase in habitat monitoring, to be defined Inspector) Habitat for SCC. be reported to the applicable municipality and conservation through off-site prior to pre-construction land authority, and compensation will be addressed in accordance with compensation. clearing, to confirm that all the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. activities are conducted in • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding Species-specific net effects are accordance with mitigation bird timing window generally from April 1st to August 31st as follows: plans and all work is conducted from within the (Different windows may apply to habitats of SAR, subject to • Confirmed Significant Deer permitting requirements). specified work zones. Wintering and Yarding • If clearing must occur within this window a qualified Ecologist Areas: Wintering and • The success of Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any Yarding Areas to be cleared compensation vegetation will active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated directly adjacent to the be monitored in accordance habitat will be avoided until the Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms existing corridor are not with the Vegetation that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. expected to be well used by Compensation Protocol for • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is deer. Thus, no net effects Metrolinx RER Projects. identified within or adjacent to the construction site, all activities are anticipated. will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified • Confirmed Significant Ecologist/Avian Biologist) shall discuss mitigation measures with Osprey Nesting, Perching Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department and Foraging: No net effects staff. In addition, Metrolinx will contact the MNRF and ECCC to are anticipated as a discuss applicable mitigation options. The Contractor will proceed replacement nesting site will based on the mitigation measures established through be created, if required. discussions with Metrolinx, the MNRF and/or ECCC. • Confirmed Significant • Compensation for habitats located within Significant Natural Terrestrial Crayfish Habitat: Areas will follow the mitigation measures associated with the A small amount of Terrestrial Significant Natural Areas listed in the Features Column of this Crayfish Habitat may be lost table. and will be confirmed prior to • Where habitats do not coincide with a Significant Natural Area, Project construction. Any compensation measures will be developed, as appropriate.

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Description of Potential Mitigation Monitoring Feature Mitigation Measures Net Effects Monitoring Activities Effects Responsibility Responsibility

Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies disturbed habitat will be through implementation of the Vegetation Compensation Protocol restored. Thus, there may for Metrolinx RER Projects. be minor effects but they are Species-specific mitigation is as follows: not expected to affect • Deer Wintering/Yarding Areas: Areas immediately adjacent to the terrestrial crayfish species at existing corridor are not likely to be used extensively by deer and the population level. therefore no additional mitigation or compensation is required, other than any overlapping habitats or features that are subject to mitigation associated with other overlapping natural feature types. • Significant Osprey Nesting, Perching and Foraging: During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure will be designed to avoid the loss of the nest to the extent possible. If the nest cannot be accommodated in its current position, the MNRF will be contacted to develop a relocation plan. A plan would be developed in consultation with the MNRF and may include installation of a nesting platform in an alternative location and removal of the existing nest outside of the breeding season. • Significant Terrestrial Crayfish Habitat: Work in this area will be limited to the extent possible. Disturbed areas will be restored to their original condition. Culvert design, land clearing, ESC Plans and Restoration Plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA for voluntary review. Species at Risk Removal of areas identified as • All requirements of the ESA, 2007 will be met, including the Metrolinx/Consultant • All requirements under the • Monitoring activities will be Consultant Significant or Candidate following: (Detailed ESA, 2007, will be met, thus developed in accordance (Environmental Significant Habitat of Design)/Consultant Inspector)/Consultant • Detailed site surveys will be undertaken prior to Project no net effects are with any registration and/or Endangered and Threatened (Environmental (Environmental construction to confirm the presence of the following species: anticipated. With regard to permitting requirements Species. Inspector - Certified Candidate Significant under the ESA, 2007. Inspector - Certified  King Rail; Butternut Health Butternut Health Habitats for Bobolink and • Butternut tree monitoring as  Least Bittern; Assessor)/Landscape Assessor) Eastern Meadowlark, no determined by the MNRF Architect  Eastern Whip-poor-will; nesting habitat is expected and Metrolinx.  Blanding’s Turtle; to be present within the areas to be cleared. Thus,  Little Brown Myotis, Northern Myotis, and Tri-colored Bat. no net effects are • Findings of site surveys will be reported to the MNRF. anticipated. • During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure will be designed to avoid the loss of any Confirmed Habitat of Endangered or Threatened Species to the extent possible. • Where loss cannot be avoided the MNRF will be contacted and all requirements under the ESA, 2007 will be met. • Timing windows for any necessary removal of any Confirmed Endangered or Threatened Species habitat will be developed in consultation with the MNRF.

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Description of Potential Mitigation Monitoring Feature Mitigation Measures Net Effects Monitoring Activities Effects Responsibility Responsibility

• Should a SAR be encountered, all work will cease within the immediate work area and the MNRF will be contacted within 48 hours or two business days. • With regard to Butternut trees:  Detailed site investigations will be undertaken prior to Project construction to confirm whether any additional Butternut trees are present within areas to be cleared.  During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure will be designed to avoid the removal of Butternut trees to the extent possible.  Register habitat damage or tree removal and submit BHA to the MNRF. A BHA will be conducted for all Butternut trees that must be removed. All findings will be reported to the MNRF.  Where loss of a retainable tree cannot be avoided, the MNRF will be contacted and all requirements under the ESA, 2007 will be met through the preparation of a Butternut Compensation Planting Plan.  If more than 10 retainable trees must be removed, the exemption regulation will not apply and a permit may be required. Nests of Migratory Clearing of trees, shrubs and • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding Consultant • With implementation of the • An Environmental Inspector Consultant Birds ground vegetation has the bird timing window; generally from April 1st to August 31st (Construction recommended mitigation will conduct regular (Environmental potential to disturb or destroy (Different windows may apply to habitats of SAR, subject to Supervision)/Contract measures, no net effects are monitoring, to be defined Inspector) nests of migratory birds. permitting requirements). anticipated. prior to pre-construction land • If clearing must occur within this window a qualified Ecologist clearing, to confirm that Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any activities do not encroach active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated into nesting areas or disturb habitat will be avoided until the Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms active nesting sites. that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is identified within or adjacent to the construction site, all activities will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist) shall discuss mitigation measures with Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department staff. In addition, Metrolinx will contact the MNRF and ECCC to discuss applicable mitigation options. The Contractor will proceed based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx, the MNRF and/or ECCC. Construction

Significant Natural Grading and soil disturbance • A qualified Environmental Inspector is required throughout the Consultant (Detailed • Any inadvertent damage is • An Environmental Inspector Consultant Areas, Wildlife during construction can lead to construction period to ensure that protection measures are Design)/Contractor likely to be highly localized will conduct regular (Environmental erosion and sedimentation implemented, maintained and enforced. and will be immediately inspections, to be defined Inspector)

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Description of Potential Mitigation Monitoring Feature Mitigation Measures Net Effects Monitoring Activities Effects Responsibility Responsibility

Habitat and within significant natural • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in addressed. Damaged areas prior to Project construction, Species at Risk features and watercourses O. Reg.153/04 for managing soil materials on-site (includes will be returned to their to confirm ESC measures affecting the quality of habitat, excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). previous condition. As such, are functioning properly and disturbing ground vegetation no net effects are are properly maintained • ESC Plans and Dewatering Plans will be developed prior to and negatively affecting the anticipated. throughout the construction Project construction in consultation with the TRCA and LSRCA quality of fish habitat. phase. and will conform to industry BMPs and recognized standard specifications. The ESC Plan will also take into account the GGHACA Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines for Urban Construction (2006). • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the work zone. • ESC measures will be implemented prior to Project construction and maintained during the construction phase in accordance with the ESC Plan. • If the ESC or dewatering measures are not functioning properly, no further work in the affected areas will occur until the problem is addressed. • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be stabilized and re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. • ESC measures will be left in place until all areas of the construction site have been stabilized and will then be removed. • Wet weather restrictions shall be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed prior to Project construction and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill response plans). • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency plans and have them in place prior to construction of the BRCE Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or depositions into watercourses will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. • The SMP will include a strategy to prevent Bank Swallow nesting in stockpiled or exposed soils. Stockpiled materials, equipment • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings Consultant (Detailed • All effects are expected to • Environmental Inspector will Consultant or construction activities could and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the Design)/Contractor be temporary, thus no net conduct regular monitoring, (Environmental accidentally encroach into work zone. effects are anticipated. to be defined prior to Project Inspector) natural areas beyond the construction, to confirm that

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Metrolinx - Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Natural Environment Report – August 8, 2017

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proposed ROW limits adding to • The ESC Plan will outline a process of resolving issues of all activities are conducted in the disturbance to natural extended encroachment, including clean-up, maintenance of ESC accordance with mitigation features and increasing the measures, and consideration of alternative ESC measures. plans and all work is quantity lost as a result of the conducted from within the • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan Project. Soils beyond the specified work zones. will be developed and implemented prior to Project construction proposed ROW limits could also and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill become compacted or disturbed response plans). from activities extending beyond approved limits. There is potential for spills of • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan Contractor • Any inadvertent damage is • An Environmental Inspector Consultant fuels or other hazardous will be developed and implemented prior to Project construction likely to be highly localized is required to inspect and (Environmental materials to occur during fueling and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill and will be immediately confirm ESC measures are Inspector) of construction equipment or response plans). addressed. Damaged areas functioning properly and are other construction activities • Deleterious substances (including stockpiled material) will be will be returned to their properly maintained which can affect groundwater used and stored in a manner that prevents any of the substances previous condition. As such, throughout the construction quality and the health of from entering a natural feature. no net effects are phase. Workers will report vegetation and wildlife within anticipated. any instances of spills to natural areas. • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance their supervisors. of construction equipment will occur within designated areas only. • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency plans and have them in place prior to construction of the BRCE Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. Any disturbance to lands and • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be re-vegetated as • Contractor • Metrolinx will work in • Areas of re-vegetation will Consultant vegetation clearing has the soon as conditions allow. accordance with the require watering and will be (Environmental potential to allow invasive Inspector) • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in requirements of the Invasive monitored by an species to be introduced and O. Reg.153/04 for managing soil materials on-site (includes Species Act. Thus, no net Environmental Inspector for spread through natural areas excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). effects are anticipated. at least two years to confirm and these invasive species can at least an 80% survival rate prevent other native species • In accordance with the SMP, topsoil will be stockpiled separately and confirm that non-native from re-establishing. from other soil materials and used for restoration to facilitate and invasive species are not natural regeneration of native species through preservation of the becoming pervasive as a existing seed bank. result of the Project, unless  Where re-vegetation is required, a native seed mix, which does otherwise specified within not contain invasive species, will be used; and if extensive the Vegetation invasion of non-native species is identified as a result of the Compensation Protocol for Project, contingency measures may include an applicable Metrolinx RER Projects. herbicide application. A herbicide application plan will be

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developed as required and submitted to the applicable conservation authority for review. Dewatering required during the All requirements under the Ontario Water Resources Act, R.S.O. Contractor • All dewatering will be • An Environmental Inspector Consultant construction of any deep 1990, c. O.40 with respect to the quality of water discharging into conducted in accordance will be on-site during any (Environmental foundations or footings or other natural receivers will be met, including the following mitigation with regulatory dewatering within Inspector) below-ground (sub-surface) measures and best practices: requirements. As such, no 120 metres of natural works has the potential to affect • Any discharge from dewatering should outlet to a vegetated area net effects are anticipated. features. The Environmental groundwater levels, wetland at least 30 metres from a significant natural feature or Inspector will confirm that water levels and the hydrology watercourse utilizing a sediment filter bag. the filter bag is working of other natural features. appropriately and confirm • In the event of sediment discharge, all operations will stop that no sediment is entering immediately until the problem can be resolved. significant natural features • If significant changes in water levels/seepage areas are noted, or watercourses. operations will cease until water levels recover. Dust created as a result of • Dust from the work areas will be controlled through suppressants Contractor • Any inadvertent damage is • An Environmental Inspector Consultant construction has the potential to (e.g., water). likely to be highly localized will conduct regular (Environmental settle on adjacent vegetation, and will be immediately inspections of dust Inspector) disturbing wildlife and their addressed. Damaged areas emissions, to be defined habitat. will be returned to their prior to Project construction, previous condition. As such, to confirm dust control no net effects are watering frequency and anticipated. rates are adequate. Significant Any steep slopes associated • Geotechnical studies will be completed prior to Project Metrolinx/Consultant • All requirements for working • An Environmental Inspector Consultant Valleylands with Valleylands could be construction to identify any design and mitigation requirements in, (Detailed in proximity to steep slopes will conduct regular (Environmental disturbed by vegetation and around, Valleylands. Design)/Contractor and watercourses will be inspections, to be defined Inspector) removal, grading work and the • Detailed design plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA met. Metrolinx will continue prior to Project construction, movement of large equipment for voluntary review in order to confirm that all work is in to consult with the to confirm that all work is which could result in erosion, compliance with O. Reg. 166/06 and O. Reg. 179/06. TRCA/LSRCA prior to conducted in accordance slumping or slope failure. Project construction and with plans and any • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation throughout future recommendations provided and excavation. Work will be avoided in Valleylands during construction phases. Thus, through the conservation periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. no net effects are authority voluntary review. anticipated. Barn Swallow Active Barn Swallow nests • Field surveys will be undertaken by a qualified Ecologist/Avian Metrolinx/Consultant • All work in, and around Barn • An Environmental Inspector Consultant Nests (regulated under the ESA, Biologist prior to Project construction to confirm the number of (Detailed Design) Swallow nests will be will conduct regular (Environmental 2007) will likely to be destroyed nests present at the known locations and whether the nests conducted in accordance inspections, to be defined Inspector) or disturbed. remain active. with the ESA, 2007. Thus, prior to Project construction, • During the detailed design phase, the rail infrastructure and no net effects are to confirm that all work is bridges will be designed to avoid the loss of Barn Swallow anticipated. conducted in accordance nesting sites to the greatest extent possible. with the ESA, 2007, and any associated • Where loss or disturbance (i.e., due to any work on the permits/approvals. culverts/bridges) cannot be avoided, the MNRF will be contacted and all requirements under the ESA, 2007, will be met, including

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any registration, compensation, replacement structures and/or permitting requirements. Linkage Areas Accidental mortality could occur • Silt fence will be used as wildlife exclusion fencing within all areas Consultant • Construction activities will be • An Environmental Inspector Consultant and Deer if wildlife inadvertently moves identified as Linkage Areas. (Construction carried out to avoid injury to will conduct regular (Environmental Wintering/Yarding through construction zones with Supervision)/Contract Inspector) • Speed limits will be posted along construction routes. wildlife. Any wildlife inspections, to be defined Areas the highest risk area being the inadvertently injured as a prior to Project construction, 14 linkage locations. • Should wildlife species move into a construction zone, the result of construction to confirm that all exclusion Accidental mortality is also Environmental Inspector will move species out of the work area. activities will be limited to a fencing is working possible adjacent to the Deer • Should a SAR be encountered that are not identified on relevant very small number of appropriately. Wintering and Yarding Areas permits, all work will cease within the immediate work area and individuals that will not affect located in close proximity to the the MNRF will be contacted. species at the population corridor. level. Fish Habitat A total of 46 culvert and bridge • An Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report will be prepared prior to Metrolinx/Consultant • All in-water and near-water • An Environmental Inspector Consultant locations that convey Project construction to identify specific effects and mitigation (Detailed works will be completed in will conduct regular (Environmental watercourses considered to be associated with detailed culvert and bridge design plans. Design)/Contractor accordance with the inspections, to be defined Inspector) either direct or indirect fish • All in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the timing requirements of the prior to Project construction, habitat will have the potential to windows to be identified in the Aquatic Habitat Assessment Fisheries Act and industry to confirm that all work is harm fish habitat due to in- Report. BMPs. As such, no net conducted in accordance and/or near-water work. effects are anticipated. with the Fisheries Act and • The footprint of disturbed areas will be minimized to the extent any associated possible. Vegetated buffers will be left in place adjacent to permits/approvals. watercourses/waterbodies to the maximum extent possible. • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. • All culverts, bridges and in-water structures will be designed to meet appropriate storm design requirements in order to avoid hydrologic affects. • All requirements under the Fisheries Act will be met including any Self-Assessments or permitting. Redside Dace Culvert/Bridge replacement or • An Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report will be prepared prior to Consultant (Detailed • All in-water and near-water • An Environmental Inspector Consultant Habitat extensions and other in- and Project construction to outline specific mitigation related to fish Design)/Contractor works in and around will conduct regular (Environmental near-water work have the habitat loss and/or disturbance. Redside Dace Habitat will be inspections, to be defined Inspector) potential to harm Redside Dace • Construction activities will occur in accordance with the Guidance conducted in accordance prior to Project construction, or their habitat. Regulated for Development Activities in Redside Dace Protected Habitat with the ESA, 2007. Thus, to confirm that all work is habitat for Redside Dace is (MNRF, 2016c). no net effects are conducted in accordance present within the study area. anticipated. with the ESA, 2007, and any associated permits/approvals. Wellhead Though there are a number of • Prior to Project construction a Hazardous Materials and Fuel Consultant (Detailed • No net effects are • An Environmental Inspector Consultant Protection Areas WHPAs present along the rail Handling Plan will be developed to confirm that fuels and other Design)/Contractor anticipated. will conduct regular (Environmental corridor, transportation hazardous materials are handled and stored in a safe manner inspections, to be defined Inspector) infrastructure is not subject to during the construction process. The plan will take into prior to Project construction, Source Water Protection to ensure that the

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regulations as it is unlikely to consideration the proximity to WHPA locations and associated Hazardous Materials and cause negative effects. Vulnerable Areas. Fuel Handling Plan is However, there is potential for followed. spills of fuels or other hazardous materials to occur during fueling of construction equipment or other construction activities. This can affect groundwater quality. Operations and Maintenance Significant Natural Significant maintenance • Any major maintenance work that would result in the replacement Metrolinx/Contractor • With implementation of the • Monitoring will be Metrolinx/Contractor Areas, Wildlife activities requiring upgrades or or upgrade of major infrastructure components requiring earth- (Maintenance) recommended mitigation undertaken subject to the (Maintenance) Habitat and replacement of major moving or in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the measures, no net effects are scale of the maintenance Species at Risk infrastructure components could applicable mitigation measures listed under the construction anticipated. work. Monitoring similar to require earth-moving or in-water phase. that required during the works similar to activities • Any required permitting or authorizations will be obtained, as construction phase may be described in the construction required. required for large-scale phase and in these instances maintenance and the same type of effects could replacement work. also be experienced. Trees adjacent to the ROW may • Any herbicide applications to clear vegetation within the ROW will Metrolinx/Contractor • Vegetation trimming is not • Contractors and rail staff are Metrolinx/Contractor need to be trimmed and cleared be applied in accordance with industry BMPs and regulations (Maintenance) expected to have any responsible for monitoring (Maintenance) with the potential to harm including conservation authority requirements. If herbicides are significant effects. Thus, no the effects of trimming and healthy trees. Any use of applied, only staff certified in their application will undertake the net effects are anticipated. herbicide application. Any chemical pesticides to maintain work. Herbicides will not be applied on windy days when there is significant concerns will be the ROW also has the potential greater potential for drift to adjacent natural areas. reported to superiors for to affect groundwater and • Any tree clearing or limb trimming will be limited to meet timely resolution. adjacent natural features if not necessary safety clearances. applied correctly. • Trees will be trimmed by a qualified professional to limit tree damage. Spills of fuel and other • An Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be Metrolinx/Contractor • Any inadvertent damage is • Track inspectors and Metrolinx/Contractor hazardous materials could developed and followed throughout the operations and (Maintenance) likely to be highly localized maintenance contractors are (Maintenance) occur as a result of maintenance phase (includes spill response plans). and will be immediately responsible for reporting maintenance activities and • Metrolinx will develop spill prevention and contingency plans for addressed. Damaged areas spills and other issues and could potentially affect ground the ROW. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and will be returned to their ensuring their timely and surface water quality and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their previous condition. As such, resolution. kill or harm vegetation and effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. no net effects are wildlife. anticipated. • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance of equipment will occur within designated areas only. • Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response kit will be on site at all times during

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the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. Wildlife Habitat, Minor disturbance to sensitive • Environmental noise will be reduced to the extent possible Metrolinx • There may be a minor • No monitoring activities are Not applicable. Species at Risk wildlife species due to increased through standard operating practices such as regular train reduction in the use of required. and Nests of train frequency, noise and maintenance and limiting whistling in accordance with all safety adjacent habitats due to Migratory Birds activity increases along the protocols and requirements. increased environmental corridor. Given the existing noise. However, due to the (ambient) conditions, any existing noise, the change is increase in train noise and likely to be minimal. The net activity is likely to have a effect is expected to be minimal effect. minor and localized. Linkage Areas Wildlife mortality as a result of • Wildlife exclusion fencing will be erected along the boundaries of Metrolinx/Consultant • Some mortality due to The following monitoring will be Metrolinx/Consultant and Deer wildlife/train collisions. the Linkages Areas. This fencing will be designed to exclude (Detailed wildlife/train collisions is undertaken: (Environmental Wintering/Yarding small and mid-sized mammals, reptiles and amphibians from the Design)/Contractor expected but net effects are • Wildlife passages will be Inspector) Areas Exclusion fencing designed to ROW and direct them to nearby ecopassages. likely to be minimal with no monitored for two years keep wildlife out of the ROW • Additional exclusion fencing will be installed adjacent to the two significant effects on species following their installation to can trap wildlife in the corridor if Deer Wintering Areas and will be designed to exclude deer from at the population level. confirm that they are they inadvertently enter through the ROW. Escape features will be incorporated to assist deer that Fencing along the full length functioning appropriately. of the corridor will create an a road crossing or other gap in may inadvertently become trapped in the ROW. • Exclusion fencing will be overall loss of connectivity. the fencing. monitored for two years • Exclusion fencing and escape features will be developed prior to With the proposed passage following installation to Project construction and will be designed in consultation with the structures, the barrier effect Effect is most likely to occur confirm that it is functioning TRCA/LSRCA and the MNRF. is expected to be minimized. appropriately. where wildlife are attempting to • Passage structures that accommodate movement of wildlife will cross the corridor at the be incorporated into the detailed design of associated culverts or • Regular, ongoing Linkages Areas and Deer bridges located at the nine Linkage Areas where passage is inspections will be Wintering and Yarding Areas. currently limited. conducted to confirm all structures are in good • Passages will be designed to allow for the movements of small working order. and mid-sized mammals, reptiles and amphibians. • The TRCA and LSRCA will continue to be consulted on all design details.

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Table 6-7: GO Station Improvements – Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring Activities of the Preferred Design

Mitigation Monitoring Feature Description of Potential Effects Mitigation Measures Net Effects Monitoring Activities Responsibility Responsibility

Pre-Construction Land Clearing • A qualified Environmental Inspector is required throughout the construction period to ensure that protection measures are implemented, maintained and enforced. • Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through implementation of the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. • Clearing and grubbing will occur from the track-side of the natural area and a detailed ESC Plan will be developed to limit damage to the remaining natural areas. Construction of the GO Station • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings Improvements will result in a and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the larger footprint to accommodate work zone. • There will be reduced on- the new platforms, tunnels and • The success of • Detailed clearing, ESC Plans and Restoration Plans will be site vegetation but an other associated structures. As a compensation vegetation will developed in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation overall increase in natural Contractor/Consultant result, portions of the following be monitored in accordance Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. Metrolinx/Contractor areas through off-site (Environmental Significant Natural Areas will be with the Vegetation compensation. As such, in Inspector) lost: • In wetlands: Compensation Protocol for the long-term there will be • Unevaluated wetland.  Wetlands will be restored as necessary to maintain the Metrolinx RER Projects. stability and function of the wetland and will be developed in no net effects. Significant Natural • Significant Woodland. accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Areas • Significant Valleyland. Metrolinx RER Projects and approved Landscape Plans developed prior to Project construction. • In woodlands:  TPZs will be established in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects.  Barriers will be installed around trees to be protected using plywood clad boarding or an equivalent material approved by the affected municipality.  No stockpiles, storage or disturbance to grade will occur within the TPZ to minimize soil compaction and root damage.

• All construction laydown areas and easements will be located to • An Environmental Inspector Construction laydown areas and avoid natural features (Candidate and Confirmed) to the extent is required to inspect and easements will be identified prior possible. • Any disturbed or damaged confirm ESC measures are to Project construction and there areas will be returned to functioning properly and are Consultant is potential that these areas may • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings Metrolinx/Contractor their previous condition. As properly maintained (Environmental result in the loss of/or disturbance and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the such, no net effects are throughout the construction Inspector) to, all natural area types present work zone. anticipated. phase and that all work is within the study area. • Any construction laydown areas or easements located within the conducted from within the Candidate or Confirmed Habitat of Endangered or Threatened specified work zones.

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Species will be subject to applicable requirements under the ESA, 2007. • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window; generally from April 1st to August 31st (Different windows may apply to habitats of SAR, subject to permitting requirements). • If clearing must occur within this window a qualified Ecologist Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated habitat will be avoided until the Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. • An Environmental Inspector • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is will conduct regular identified within or adjacent to the construction site, all activities monitoring, to be defined will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified prior to pre-construction land Ecologist/Avian Biologist) shall discuss mitigation measures with clearing, to confirm that all Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department • There will be reduced on- activities are conducted in staff. In addition, Metrolinx will contact the MNRF and ECCC to site wildlife habitat but an accordance with mitigation Removal of portions of Candidate discuss applicable mitigation options. The Contractor will proceed Metrolinx/Consultant overall increase in habitat plans and all work is Consultant Wildlife Habitat and Confirmed Significant Wildlife based on the mitigation measures established through (Detailed through off-site conducted from within the (Environmental Habitat and SCC. discussions with Metrolinx, the MNRF and/or ECCC. Design)/Contractor compensation. As such, in specified work zones. Inspector) the long-term there will be • Habitats with a critical timing window at a different time of year no net effects. • The success of will be assessed by a qualified Ecologist/Avian Biologist prior to compensation vegetation will any clearing to confirm that the habitat is not in use. If the habitat be monitored in accordance is being used for critical life functions, the area will be flagged and with the Vegetation all clearing within the associated habitat will be avoided until the Compensation Protocol for area is no longer in use. Metrolinx RER Projects. • Compensation for habitats located within Natural Areas will follow the mitigation measures listed under Significant Natural Features in the Feature column of this table. • Where habitats do not coincide with a Significant Natural Area, compensation measures will be developed, as appropriate. Metrolinx will coordinate compensation with public agencies through implementation of the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. • All requirements of the ESA, 2007 will be met, including the following: • Monitoring activities will be A number of areas identified as • Detailed site surveys will be undertaken prior to Project • All requirements under the Metrolinx/Consultant developed in accordance Consultant Candidate Habitat of Endangered construction to confirm the presence of the following species: ESA, 2007, will be met, Species at Risk (Detailed with any registration and/or (Environmental and Threatened Species will be  King Rail; thus no net effects are Design)/Contractor permitting requirements Inspector) cleared. anticipated.  Least Bittern; under the ESA, 2007.  Eastern Whip-poor-will;  Blanding’s Turtle;

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 Little Brown Myotis, Northern Myotis, and Tri-colored Bat. • Findings of site surveys will be reported to the MNRF. • During the detailed design phase, the GO Station improvements will be designed to avoid the loss of any Confirmed Habitat of Endangered or Threatened Species to the extent possible. • Where loss cannot be avoided, the MNRF will be contacted and all requirements under the ESA, 2007, will be met, including any species-specific registration, compensation and/or permitting requirements. • Timing windows for any necessary removal of any Confirmed Endangered or Threatened Species habitat will be developed in consultation with the MNRF in association with any self- registration or permitting requirements. • Should a SAR be encountered that is not identified on relevant permits, all work will cease within the immediate work area and the MNRF will be contacted. • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window; generally from April 1st to August 31st (Different windows may apply to habitats of SAR, subject to permitting requirements). • If clearing must occur within this window a qualified Ecologist Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any • An Environmental Inspector active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated will conduct regular Nests could be harmed or habitat will be avoided until the Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms Metrolinx/Consultant • With implementation of the monitoring, to be defined Consultant Nests of Migratory destroyed as a result of that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. (Construction recommended mitigation prior to pre-construction land (Environmental Birds vegetation clearing which is in • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is Supervision)/Contractor measures, no net effects clearing, to confirm that Inspector) contravention of the MBCA, 1994. identified within or adjacent to the construction site, all activities are anticipated. activities do not encroach will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified into nesting areas or disturb Ecologist/Avian Biologist) shall discuss mitigation measures with active nesting sites. Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department staff. In addition, Metrolinx will contact the MNRF and ECCC to discuss applicable mitigation options. The Contractor will proceed based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx, the MNRF and/or ECCC. A total of 32 trees were removed in winter 2015/2016 to • The success of accommodate the construction of • Planting of the required compensation vegetation will a new parking lot. A total of • The outstanding 61 trees will be addressed in accordance with Metrolinx/Consultant trees will result in an overall Contractor/Consultant Additional Trees at be monitored in accordance 96 trees were needed as the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER (Detailed long-term gain. As such, in (Environmental King City GO Station with the Vegetation compensation. It is noted that 35 Projects. Design)/Contractor the long-term there will be Inspector) Compensation Protocol for trees were planted. The remaining no net effects. Metrolinx RER Projects. trees that could not be accommodated on-site as

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compensation will be carried forward as part of the compensation obligation for the BRCE Project. Construction • A qualified Environmental Inspector is required throughout the construction period to ensure that protection measures are implemented, maintained and enforced. • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials on-site (includes excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). • ESC Plans and Dewatering Plans will be developed prior to Project construction in consultation with the TRCA and LSRCA and will conform to industry BMPs and recognized standard specifications. The ESC Plan shall also take into account the GGHACA Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines for Urban Construction (2006). • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the work zone. • An Environmental Inspector Grading and soil disturbance • ESC measures will be implemented prior to Project construction • Any inadvertent damage is will conduct regular during construction can lead to and maintained during the construction phase in accordance with likely to be highly localized inspections, to be defined Significant Natural erosion and sedimentation within the ESC Plan. and will be immediately prior to Project construction, Consultant Areas, Wildlife significant natural features and Consultant (Detailed addressed. Damaged to confirm ESC and (Environmental Habitat and Species watercourses and this can affect • If the ESC or dewatering measures are not functioning properly, Design)/Contractor areas will be returned to dewatering measures are Inspector) at Risk the quality of habitat, can disturb no further work in the affected areas will occur until the problem is their previous condition. As functioning properly and are ground vegetation and negatively addressed. such, no net effects are properly maintained affect the quality of fish habitat. • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be stabilized and anticipated. throughout the construction re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. phase. • ESC measures will be left in place until all areas of the construction site have been stabilized and will then be removed. • Wet weather restrictions shall be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed prior to Project construction and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill response plans). • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency plans and have them in place prior to construction of the BRCE Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or depositions into watercourses will be immediately contained and

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cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. • The SMP will include a strategy to prevent Bank Swallow nesting in stockpiled or exposed soils. Stockpiled materials, equipment or construction activities could • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings accidentally encroach into natural and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the • Environmental Inspector will areas beyond the proposed ROW work zone. conduct regular monitoring, limits and this could add to the to be defined prior to Project • The ESC Plan will outline a process of resolving issues of Consultant disturbance of natural features Consultant (Detailed • All effects are expected to construction, to confirm that extended encroachment, including clean-up, maintenance of ESC (Environmental and increase the quantity lost as a Design)/Contractor be temporary, thus no net all activities are conducted in measures, and consideration of alternative ESC measures. Inspector) result of the Project. Soils beyond effects are anticipated. accordance with mitigation • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan plans and all work is the proposed ROW limits could will be developed and implemented followed throughout the also become compacted or conducted from within the construction phase of the BRCE Project (includes spill response specified work zones. disturbed from activities extended plans). beyond approved limits. • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed and implemented prior to construction and followed throughout the construction phase of the BRCE Project (includes spill response plans). • Deleterious substances (including stockpiled material) will be used and stored in a manner that prevents any of the substances from entering a natural feature. • A Hazardous Materials and Fuel Handling Plan will be developed prior to Project construction, to confirm that fuels and other • An Environmental Inspector There is potential for spills of fuels • Any inadvertent damage is hazardous materials are handled and stored in a safe manner is required to inspect and or other hazardous materials to likely to be highly localized during the construction process. The plan will take into confirm ESC measures are occur during fueling of and will be immediately consideration the proximity to WHPA locations and associated functioning properly and are Contractor/Consultant construction equipment or other addressed. Damaged Vulnerable Areas. Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling Contractor properly maintained (Environmental construction activities that can areas will be returned to and maintenance of construction equipment will occur within throughout the construction Inspector) affect groundwater quality and the their previous condition. As designated areas only. phase. Workers will report health of vegetation and wildlife such, no net effects are • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency any instances of spills to within natural areas. anticipated. plans and have them in place prior to construction of the BRCE their supervisors. Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.

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• All disturbed areas of the construction site will be re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. • Areas of re-vegetation will • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in require watering and will be O. Reg. 153/04 for managing soil materials on-site (includes monitored by an Any disturbance to lands and excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse and off-site disposal). Environmental Inspector for vegetation clearing has the • In accordance with the SMP, topsoil will be stockpiled separately • Metrolinx will work in at least two years to confirm potential to allow invasive species from other soil materials and used for restoration to facilitate accordance with the at least an 80% survival rate Consultant to be introduced and spread natural regeneration of native species through preservation of the Contractor requirements of the and confirm that non-native (Environmental through natural areas and existing seed bank. Invasive Species Act. Thus, and invasive species are not Inspector) invasive species can prevent  Where re-vegetation is required, a native seed mix, which does no net effects are becoming pervasive as a other native species from not contain invasive species, will be used. anticipated. result of the BRCE Project, re-establishing. unless otherwise specified  If extensive invasion of non-native species is identified as a within the Vegetation result of the Project, contingency measures may include an Compensation Protocol for applicable herbicide application. A herbicide application plan Metrolinx RER Projects. will be developed as required and submitted to the applicable conservation authorities for review. All requirements under the Ontario Water Resources Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. O.40 with respect to the quality of water discharging into Tunnels will be constructed at • An Environmental Inspector natural receivers will be met, including the following mitigation each GO Station to allow will be on-site during any measures and best practices: dewatering within 120 metres passengers to safely cross the • All dewatering will be of natural features. The corridor to access new platforms. • Any discharge from dewatering should outlet to a vegetated area conducted in accordance Consultant Environmental Inspector will Tunneling will require dewatering at least 30 metres from a significant natural feature or Contractor with regulatory (Environmental confirm that the filter bag is and the discharge of that water to watercourse utilizing a sediment filter bag. requirements. As such, no Inspector) working appropriately and the environment. Dewatering may net effects are anticipated. • In the event of sediment discharge, all operations will stop confirm that no sediment is be required for other below- immediately until the problem can be resolved. ground (sub-surface) work. entering significant natural • If significant changes in water levels/seepage areas are noted, features or watercourses. operations will cease until water levels recover. • Any inadvertent damage is • An Environmental Inspector Dust created as a result of likely to be highly localized will conduct regular construction has the potential to and will be immediately inspections of dust Consultant settle on adjacent vegetation, • Dust from the work areas will be controlled through suppressants Contractor addressed. Damaged emissions, to be defined (Environmental disturbing wildlife and their (e.g., water). areas will be returned to prior to Project construction, Inspector) habitat. their previous condition. As to confirm dust control such, no net effects are watering frequency and rates anticipated. are adequate.

There is a Significant Valleyland • Geotechnical studies will be completed prior to Project • All requirements for • An Environmental Inspector associated with Westminster construction to identify any design and mitigation requirements in, working in proximity to will conduct regular Metrolinx/Consultant Consultant Significant Creek at the Rutherford GO and around, Valleylands. steep slopes and inspections, to be defined (Detailed (Environmental Valleylands Station and this valley feature watercourses will be met. prior to Project construction, could be disturbed by vegetation • Detailed design plans will be submitted to the TRCA and LSRCA Design)/Contractor Conservation authorities to confirm that all work is Inspector) removal, grading work and the for voluntary review in order to confirm that all work is in will continue to be conducted in accordance movement of large equipment compliance with O. Reg. 166/06 and O. Reg. 179/06. consulted prior to Project with plans and any

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which could result in erosion, • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation construction and recommendations provided slumping or slope failure. and excavation. Work will be avoided in Valleylands during throughout future through the conservation periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. construction phases. Thus, authority voluntary review. no net effects are anticipated. • An Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report will be prepared prior to Project construction to identify specific effects and mitigation associated with detailed culvert and bridge design plans. • All in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the timing Fish habitat is present at the windows identified in the Aquatic Habitat Assessment Report. • An Environmental Inspector Rutherford, King City, East • The footprint of disturbed areas will be minimized to the extent • All in-water and near-water will conduct regular Gwillimbury and Bradford GO possible. Vegetated buffers will be left in place adjacent to works will be completed in inspections, to be defined Metrolinx/Consultant Consultant Stations. New platforms may watercourses/waterbodies to the maximum extent possible. accordance with the prior to Project construction, Fish Habitat (Detailed (Environmental result in the need to extend requirements of the to confirm that all work is • Wet weather restrictions will be applied during site preparation Design)/Contractor Inspector) culverts or construct in, and Fisheries Act and industry conducted in accordance and excavation. Work will be avoided near watercourses during BMPs. Thus, no net effects with the Fisheries Act and around, water. This work has the periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. potential to harm fish habitat. are anticipated. any associated • All culverts, bridges and in-water structures will be designed to permits/approvals. meet appropriate storm design requirements in order to avoid hydrologic affects. • All requirements under the Fisheries Act will be met including any Self-Assessments or permitting. Operations and Maintenance

Any grading or earth moving • Any major maintenance work that would result in the replacement • Monitoring will be undertaken required for maintenance or upgrade of major infrastructure components requiring earth- subject to the scale of the purposes can result in moving or in-water work will be conducted in accordance with the • With implementation of the maintenance work. Metrolinx/Contractor Metrolinx/Contractor sedimentation within adjacent applicable mitigation measures listed under the construction recommended mitigation Monitoring similar to that (Maintenance) (Maintenance) natural features, degrading phase. measures, no net effects required during construction are anticipated. may be required for large- habitats and harming vegetation • Any required permitting or authorizations will be obtained, as and wildlife. scale maintenance and required. replacement work. Significant Natural Areas, Wildlife • Any herbicide applications to clear vegetation within the ROW will Habitat and Species Trees adjacent to the GO Stations be applied in accordance with industry BMPs and regulations may need to be trimmed and • GO Station staff and at Risk including conservation authority requirements. If herbicides are maintenance contractors are cleared. Trimming has the applied, only staff certified in their application will undertake the potential to harm healthy trees. • Vegetation trimming is not responsible for monitoring work. Herbicides will not be applied on windy days when there is Metrolinx/Contractor Metrolinx/Contractor Any use of chemical pesticides to expected to have any the effects of trimming and greater potential for drift to adjacent natural areas. (Maintenance) (Maintenance) maintain GO Station areas also significant effects. Thus, no herbicide application. Any has the potential to affect • Any tree clearing or limb trimming will be limited to meet net effects are anticipated. significant concerns will be groundwater and adjacent natural necessary safety clearances. reported to superiors for features if not applied correctly. • Trees will be trimmed by a qualified professional to limit tree timely resolution. damage.

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• An Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed and followed throughout the operations and maintenance phase (includes spill response plans). • Metrolinx will develop spill prevention and contingency plans for the GO Stations. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the • Any inadvertent damage is Spills of fuel and other hazardous plans and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to likely to be highly localized • GO Station staff and materials could occur as a result strengthen their effectiveness and facilitate continuous and will be immediately maintenance contractors of maintenance activities. Spills improvement. Metrolinx/Contractor addressed. Damaged responsible for reporting Metrolinx/Contractor have the potential to affect ground • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance (Maintenance) areas will be returned to spills and other issues and (Maintenance) and surface water quality and kill of equipment will occur within designated areas only. their previous condition. As ensuring their timely or harm vegetation and wildlife. such, no net effects are resolution. • Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be anticipated. immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.

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Table 6-8: Bradford Layover Facility – Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures, Net Effects and Monitoring Activities of the Preferred Design

Mitigation Monitoring Feature Description of Potential Effects Mitigation Measures Net Effects Monitoring Activities Responsibility Responsibility

Pre-Construction Land Clearing • If Endangered or Threatened Species are found in the wetland, monitoring activities will be developed in accordance with any registration and/or permitting requirements under the ESA, 2007. • If the habitat is confirmed • A qualified Environmental Inspector is required throughout the • If no Endangered or to be significant, construction period to ensure that protection measures are Threatened Species are compensation will be implemented, maintained and enforced. found, the following monitoring provided in accordance will be applied: An entire human-made wetland • Species-specific site investigations will be undertaken prior to with the Vegetation will be removed. The wetland is Project construction. If any Endangered or Threatened Species Compensation Protocol for  An Environmental Inspector a square-shaped depression are found, compensation will be provided as required under the will conduct regular Contractor/Consultant Metrolinx/Consultant Metrolinx RER Projects. created through grading. It could ESA, 2007. The wetland is human- monitoring, to be defined (Environmental (Detailed Design) prior to pre-construction potentially provide habitat for • Compensation will be developed in conjunction with the MNRF made and relatively young Inspector) land clearing, to confirm Blanding’s Turtles, King Rail and through the permitting and/or registration process. with a lack of diversity. As Least Bittern. such, it is expected that that all activities are • If Endangered or Threatened Species are not found, removal of conducted in accordance Human-made any compensation would the wetland will be addressed through the Vegetation with mitigation plans and all Wetland, Wildlife result in a higher quality Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects to be work is conducted from Habitat and Species wetland with a greater developed in consultation with applicable agencies. within the specified work at Risk wildlife habitat function. zones.  The success of compensation vegetation will be monitored in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects.

• Species-specific site investigations will be undertaken prior to • If the habitat is confirmed • If Endangered or Threatened A cultural thicket and portions of Project construction. If Eastern Meadowlark is found to be significant, Species are found in the a cultural meadow will be compensation will be provided as required under the ESA, 2007. compensation will be wetland, monitoring activities removed. They are in a state of Compensation will be developed in conjunction with the MNRF provided in accordance will be developed in early succession and could Contractor/Consultant through the permitting and/or registration process. Metrolinx/Consultant with the Vegetation accordance with any potentially provide habitat for (Environmental (Detailed Design) Compensation Protocol for registration and/or permitting Shrub/Early Successional • If Eastern Meadowlark is not found but the criteria for Significant Inspector) Metrolinx RER Projects. requirements under the ESA, Breeding Birds and the Shrub/Early Successional Bird Breeding Habitat is met, the The meadow and thicket 2007. provincially Threatened Eastern removal of habitat will be addressed through the Vegetation community is disturbed Meadowlark. Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects to be and includes a high • If no Endangered or developed in consultation with applicable agencies. number of non-native and Threatened Species are

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invasive species. As such, found, the following monitoring it is expected that any will be applied: compensation would result  An Environmental Inspector in a higher quality will conduct regular meadow habitat with a monitoring, to be defined greater wildlife habitat prior to pre-construction land function. clearing, to confirm that all activities are conducted in accordance with mitigation plans and all work is conducted from within the specified work zones.  The success of compensation vegetation will be monitored in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. • Any vegetation clearing will take place outside of the breeding bird timing window; generally from April 1st to August 31st (Different windows may apply to habitats of SAR, subject to • Construction activities will permitting requirements). be carried out to avoid • If clearing must occur within this window a qualified Ecologist injury to wildlife. Any Ecologist/Avian Biologist will first search the affected area. Any wildlife inadvertently • An Environmental Inspector Nests could be harmed or active nests will be flagged and all clearing within the associated injured as a result of will conduct regular destroyed as a result of habitat will be avoided until the Ecologist/Avian Biologist confirms Metrolinx/Consultant construction activities will monitoring, to be defined prior Consultant Nests of Migratory vegetation clearing. This is in that the birds have fledged and the nest is no longer active. (Construction be limited to a very small to pre-construction land (Environmental Birds contravention of the MBCA, • If a nesting migratory bird (or SAR protected under ESA, 2007) is Supervisor)/Contractor number of individuals that clearing, to confirm that Inspector) 1994. identified within or adjacent to the construction site, all activities will not affect species at activities do not encroach into will stop and the Contractor (with assistance from a qualified the population level. Tree nesting areas or disturb active Ecologist/Avian Biologist) shall discuss mitigation measures with removals will be limited nesting sites. Metrolinx - Environment Program and Assessment Department within breeding bird timing staff. In addition, Metrolinx will contact the MNRF and ECCC to windows. As such, no net discuss applicable mitigation options. The Contractor will proceed effects are anticipated. based on the mitigation measures established through discussions with Metrolinx, the MNRF and/or ECCC. Construction Grading and soil disturbance • An Environmental Inspector • A qualified Environmental Inspector is required throughout the • Any inadvertent damage during construction could lead to will conduct regular construction period to ensure that protection measures are is likely to be highly Provincially erosion and sedimentation to the inspections, to be defined prior Consultant implemented, maintained and enforced. Contractor/Consultant localized and will be Significant Wetland adjacent provincially significant to Project construction, to (Environmental (Detailed Design) immediately addressed. and Fish Habitat Holland Marsh Wetland Complex • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in confirm ESC and dewatering Inspector) Damaged areas will be and tributary of the West Holland O. Reg.153/04 for managing soil materials on-site (includes measures are functioning returned to their previous River. This could affect the excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). properly and are properly

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quality of habitat, disturb ground • ESC Plans and Dewatering Plans will be developed prior to condition. As such, no net maintained throughout the vegetation and negatively affect Project construction in consultation with the TRCA and LSRCA effects are anticipated. construction phase. the quality of fish habitat. and will conform to industry BMPs and recognized standard specifications. The ESC Plan shall also take into account the GGHACA Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines for Urban Construction (2006). • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur outside the work zone. • ESC measures will be implemented prior to Project construction and maintained during the construction phase in accordance with the ESC Plan. • If the ESC or dewatering measures are not functioning properly, no further work in the affected areas will occur until the problem is addressed. • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be stabilized and re-vegetated as soon as conditions allow. • ESC measures will be left in place until all areas of the construction site have been stabilized and will then be removed. • Wet weather restrictions shall be applied during site preparation and excavation. Work will be avoided near watercourses during periods of excessive precipitation and/or excessive snow melt. • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed prior to Project construction and followed throughout the construction phase (includes spill response plans). • The SMP will include a strategy to prevent Bank Swallow nesting in stockpiled or exposed soils. • A Hazardous Materials and Fuel Handling Plan will be developed prior to Project construction, to confirm that fuels and other hazardous materials are handled and stored in a safe manner during the construction process. The plan will take into • An Environmental Inspector is There is potential for spills of • Any inadvertent damage consideration the proximity to WHPA locations and associated required to inspect and fuels or other hazardous is likely to be highly Vulnerable Areas. Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling confirm ESC measures are materials to occur during fueling localized and will be and maintenance of construction equipment will occur within functioning properly and are Consultant of construction equipment or immediately addressed. designated areas only. Contractor properly maintained (Environmental other construction activities. This Damaged areas will be throughout the construction Inspector) can affect groundwater quality • The Contractor will develop spill prevention and contingency returned to their previous phase. Workers will report any and the health of vegetation and plans and have them in place prior to construction of the BRCE condition. As such, no net instances of spills to their wildlife within natural areas. Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans and effects are anticipated. the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen their supervisors. effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. Spills or depositions into watercourses will be immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements

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and the contingency plan. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. • All requirements under the Ontario Water Resources Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. O.40 with respect to the quality of water discharging into • An Environmental Inspector Dewatering required during the natural receivers will be met, including the following mitigation will be on-site during any construction of any deep dewatering within 120 metres measures and best practices: • All dewatering will be foundations or footings or other of natural features. The  Any discharge from dewatering should outlet to a vegetated conducted in accordance Consultant below-ground (sub-surface) Environmental Inspector will area at least 30 metres from a significant natural feature or Contractor with regulatory (Environmental works has the potential to affect confirm that the filter bag is watercourse utilizing a sediment filter bag. requirements. As such, no Inspector) groundwater levels, wetland working appropriately and net effects are anticipated. water levels and the hydrology of  In the event of sediment discharge, all operations will stop confirm that no sediment is other natural features. immediately until the problem can be resolved. entering significant natural  If significant changes in water levels/seepage areas are features or watercourses. noted, operations will cease until water levels recover. • An Environmental Inspector Dust created as a result of will conduct regular construction has the potential to • All effects are expected to inspections of dust emissions, Consultant • Dust from the work areas will be controlled through suppressants settle on adjacent vegetation, Contractor be temporary, thus no net to be defined prior to Project (Environmental (e.g., water). disturbing wildlife and their effects are anticipated. construction, to confirm dust Inspector) habitat. control watering frequency and rates are adequate. Stockpiled materials, equipment or construction activities could • All work zones will be clearly marked on detailed design accidentally encroach into natural • Environmental Inspector will drawings and the ESC Plan to indicate that no work will occur • Any inadvertent damage areas beyond the proposed conduct regular monitoring, to outside the work zone. is likely to be highly property limits. This could add to be defined prior to Project • The ESC Plan will outline a process of resolving issues of localized and will be the disturbance to natural construction, to confirm that all Consultant extended encroachment, including clean-up, maintenance of Contractor/Consultant immediately addressed. features and increase the activities are conducted in (Environmental ESC measures, and consideration of alternative ESC measures. (Detailed Design) Damaged areas will be quantity lost as a result of the accordance with mitigation Inspector) Provincially returned to their previous Project. Soils beyond the • A Construction Emergency Response and Communications Plan plans and all work is Significant Wetland condition. As such, no net proposed property limits could will be developed prior to Project construction and followed conducted from within the effects are anticipated. also become compacted or throughout the construction phase (includes spill response specified work zones. disturbed if activities extend plans). beyond approved limits. • Areas of re-vegetation will • All disturbed areas of the construction site will be re-vegetated require watering and will be Any disturbance to lands and as soon as conditions allow. vegetation clearing has the • Metrolinx will work in monitored by an potential to allow invasive • A SMP will be prepared by a Qualified Professional as defined in Environmental Inspector for at accordance with the Consultant species to be introduced and O. Reg.153/04 for managing soil materials on-site (includes least two years to confirm at Contractor requirements of the (Environmental spread through natural areas. excavation, location of stockpiles, reuse, and off-site disposal). least an 80% survival rate and Invasive Species Act. Inspector) Invasive species can prevent • In accordance with the SMP, topsoil will be stockpiled separately Thus, no net effects are confirm that non-native and other native species from re- from other soil materials and used for restoration to facilitate anticipated. invasive species are not establishing. natural regeneration of native species through preservation of becoming pervasive as a the existing seed bank. result of the Project, unless otherwise specified within the

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• Where re-vegetation is required, a native seed mix, which does Vegetation Compensation not contain invasive species, will be used. Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects. • If extensive invasion of non-native species is identified as a result of the Project, contingency measures may include an applicable herbicide application. A herbicide application plan will be developed as required and submitted to the applicable conservation authority for review. • Monitoring activities will be • The watercourse will be relocated in accordance with all developed in the Aquatic Fisheries Act requirements. Specific mitigation measures and Habitat Assessment Report to In order to accommodate the permitting requirements will be identified in the Aquatic Habitat • All requirements under the be prepared prior to Project Consultant layover facility, the watercourse Assessment Report to be prepared prior to Project construction. Fisheries Act will be met, Fish Habitat Metrolinx/Contractor construction. A monitoring (Environmental through the centre of the site will The watercourse is regulated by the LSRCA. Although Metrolinx thus no net effects are program will be developed to Inspector) need to be relocated. is not required to meet LSRCA regulations, all plans associated anticipated. meet all requirements of the with this watercourse will be sent to LSRCA for voluntary review Fisheries Act and any permit with the intent of meeting the spirit of regulatory requirements. or approval conditions. Operations and Maintenance • An Emergency Response and Communications Plan will be developed and followed throughout the operations and maintenance phase (includes spill response plans). • Metrolinx will develop spill prevention and contingency plans for Spills of fuel and other hazardous the Project. Personnel will be trained in how to apply the plans • Any inadvertent damage is likely to be highly materials could occur as a result and the plans will be reviewed on a regular basis to strengthen • Layover staff and maintenance localized and will be Provincially of maintenance activities. Spills their effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. contractors are responsible for Metrolinx/Contractor immediately addressed. Metrolinx/Contractor Significant Wetland have the potential to affect reporting spills and other • Hazardous material and fuel storage, refueling and maintenance (Maintenance) Damaged areas will be (Maintenance) and Fish Habitat ground and surface water quality issues and ensuring their of equipment will occur within designated areas only. returned to their previous and kill or harm vegetation and • Spills or depositions into watercourses or natural features will be timely resolution. wildlife. condition. As such, no net immediately contained and cleaned up in accordance with effects are anticipated. provincial regulatory requirements and the contingency plan. A hydrocarbon spill response kit will be on site at all times during the work. Spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.

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In addition to direct removal (loss) of natural features, the proposed works are also likely to result in broader 7. Conclusions effects to areas surrounding the Barrie rail corridor. These effects potentially include:

Metrolinx has proposed the expansion of the Barrie rail corridor from Union Station in the City of Toronto to the • Disturbance to natural features and systems as a result of erosion, sedimentation, spills of hazardous Allandale Waterfront GO Station in the City of Barrie. The TPAP under O. Reg. 231/08 requires that all transit materials, dewatering activities, and the accidental introduction of invasive species resulting from pre- projects and Metrolinx undertakings be assessed to identify potential effects, mitigation measures, and monitoring construction land clearing, construction, and operations/maintenance activities; associated with natural features of provincial importance (identified as features of “Provincial Significance” for the purposes of this Report). Portions of this proposed expansion also fall within the jurisdiction of 11 municipalities • Disturbance or loss of fish habitat, including that of Redside Dace, during the replacement or extension of spanning the regulatory boundaries of two conservation authorities. In addition, the study area traverses the culverts throughout the corridor; ORMCP Area, the LSPP Area, and the Greenbelt Plan Area. • Disturbance or removal of two active Barn Swallow nests during expansion work in and around two bridges;

The purpose of this study was to identify existing, and potential, features of Provincial Significance, assess and • Removal of Butternut trees which are protected under the ESA, 2007; quantify the potential effects, and summarize the predicted net effects of these proposed works following implementation of the mitigation measures prescribed within this Report. These tasks were carried out based on • Potential removal of an active Osprey nest; a combination of industry BMPs, guidance documents, technical papers, as well as governing policy and • Increased wildlife mortality as a result of wildlife/train collisions; and regulatory requirements. • Creation of barriers to wildlife movement across the corridor. The Barrie rail corridor passes through a large number of Provincially Significant or Candidate Significant natural features, including: Overall, the BRCE Project has the potential to result in a number of temporary and permanent effects to the natural environment. Due to site access limitations, the presence of some natural features could not be confirmed. • PSWs; Potential effects associated with this Project may result from direct loss of natural features as well as indirect and • Non-significant or Unevaluated Wetlands; accidental effects resulting from pre-construction land clearing, construction, and operations/maintenance activities. Where effects are unknown, further discussions and engagement with affected municipalities, • Confirmed and Candidate ANSIs; conservation authorities and relevant agencies will be undertaken prior to Project construction. Metrolinx has • Significant Woodlands; made a commitment to undertake future studies to inform the development of compensation strategies for implementation during construction of the BRCE Project. All required permits and approvals will be obtained in • Significant Valleylands; and advance of construction. Further information regarding applicable permits/approvals can be found within Section • Significant and Candidate Wildlife Habitats, including those containing species designated as Threatened, 6 of the BRCE EPR. Endangered, or Special Concern. It is anticipated that all effects can be mitigated through thoughtful and appropriate Project design, coupled with The proposed expansion will involve the removal of 44.51 ha of natural features as a result of the new rail implementation of well-established mitigation measures, and industry BMPs. Potential effects that cannot be infrastructure, GO Station improvements and Bradford Layover Facility. Losses to specific natural features are avoided or mitigated will be addressed with appropriate compensation, where required. The Project will be broken down as follows (some of which overlap): completed in accordance with the Vegetation Compensation Protocol for Metrolinx RER Projects and, as such, will result in increased forest, wetland and wildlife habitat. An overall net gain in natural areas will be achieved. • 3.19 ha of PSWs; Expansion of the Barrie rail corridor is also expected to create significant benefit to the environment by • 6.79 ha of Non-significant or Unevaluated Wetlands; encouraging public transit and reducing vehicle emissions. The net environmental benefit of public transit is • 6.56 ha of Significant Woodlands; expected to outweigh any residual effects. Overall, the BRCE Project can be viewed as a significant environmental gain for the communities along the corridor. • 4.94 ha of Provincial and Candidate ANSIs;

• 11.55 ha of Significant Valleylands; and

• 20.90 ha of Candidate and Confirmed SWH of Endangered and Threatened Species in excess of the above- noted areas.

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Metrolinx - Barrie Rail Corridor Expansion Project Natural Environment Report – August 8, 2017

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