Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF LAROSE FOREST

USSELL R

MAI 2008

RESCOTTAND P

OUNTIES OF OUNTIESOF

NITED

U Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF LAROSE FOREST

United Counties of Prescott and Russell

Scientific and Technical Report

Mai 2008

Client

United Counties of Prescott and Russell 59, rue Court St., C.P./P.O Box 304 L’Orignal, (Ontario) K0B 1K0 Tel.: 613- 675-4661, 1-800-667-6307 Fax.: 613- 675-1007 Responsible person: Mr. Louis Prévost, MICU, UPE, Director

Consultants

Horizon Multiressource inc. 387, rue Lafleur, Lachute (Québec), J8H 1R2 Telephone: 450- 562-3223 Fax : 450- 562-9361 Responsible person: Mr. André Goulet, Forest Eng., R.P.F., M.Sc.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

PART1: PORTRAITOF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIST OF TABLES...... VIII LIST OF FIGURES...... X LIST OF FIGURES...... X LIST OF APPENDICES ...... XII SUMMARY...... XIII CONTEXT ...... 1

PART 1 : PORTRAIT OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT INTRODUCTION ...... 2

DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA ...... 3 PARTNERS ...... 3 1 METHODS...... 5

1.1 INVENTORY OF RESOURCES AND AVAILABLE INFORMATION ...... 5 1.2 INVENTORY METHODS ...... 6 1.3 PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS ...... 7 Stage 1: Publication of a press release and presentation of the project...... 7 Stage 2: Presentation of part 1 of the PDP: diagnostic...... 7 Stage 3: Thematic exchange session...... 7 Stage 4: Presentation of the PDP, parts 1 and 2...... 7 2 HISTORY OF LAROSE FOREST...... 8 3 DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THE ABIOTIC COMPONENTS IN THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT...... 9

3.1 CLIMATOLOGY ...... 9 3.1.1 Temperature and precipitation ...... 9 3.1.2 Impact of temperature on local biophysical components...... 10 3.2 SOILS AND GEOMORPHOLOGY ...... 11 3.2.1 Source rock...... 11 3.2.2 Surface deposits...... 11 3.3 ALTITUDE AND LANDFORM ...... 13 3.3.1 Erosion risks...... 13 3.4 HYDROGRAPHY ...... 15 3.4.1 Drainage basins...... 15 3.4.2 Wetlands ...... 15 3.4.3 Watercourses ...... 21 3.5 LANDSCAPES ...... 26 3.5.1 Landscapes units and micro-landscapes...... 26 3.5.2 Road landscapes ...... 27 3.5.3 Natural landscapes of interest and heritage landscapes ...... 28 3.5.4 Physical access to the site and signage ...... 30 4 DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THE BIOTIC COMPONENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENT ...... 31

4.1 FOREST AND FOREST STANDS ...... 31 4.1.1 Inventory methods...... 31 4.1.2 Species groups ...... 32 4.1.3 Forest stocking...... 34

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 4.1.4 Density of forest stands...... 34 4.1.5 Health of forest stands...... 35 4.2 BOTANY ...... 38 4.3 NON -TIMBER FOREST COMPONENTS ...... 38 4.3.1 Sugar maple growing potential...... 39 4.3.2 Mushroom picking ...... 41 4.3.3 Cultivation of ginseng in the forest...... 41 4.3.4 Harvesting of Canada yew...... 42 4.4 WILDLIFE HABITAT AND WILDLIFE ...... 44 4.4.1 Regional context evaluation...... 44 4.4.2 Greater wildlife...... 47 4.3.3 Small wildlife ...... 54 4.3.4 Habitat potential for other species ...... 57 4.3.5 Habitat sectors with high wildlife potential...... 60 5. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT...... 62

5.1 RESULTS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION ...... 62 5.1.1 Step 1: Publication of a press release project, project presentation and step...... 62 2: Presentation of part 1 of the PDP: diagnostic ...... 62 5.1.2 Step 3: Theme exchange sessions ...... 64 5.2 CONSULTATION WITH NATIVE COMMUNITIES ...... 66 6 DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THE TOURIST OPTION IN A NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 68

6.1 ACTIVITIES , NON -MOTORIZED INFRASTRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATIONS ...... 68 6.1.1 Hiking ...... 68 6.1.2 Cross-country skiing...... 68 6.1.3 Horseback riding ...... 68 6.1.4 Dogsleds ...... 69 6.1.5 Education and interpretation...... 69 6.2 ACTIVITIES , MOTORIZED INFRASTRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATIONS ...... 70 6.2.1 ATV...... 70 6.2.2 Snowmobile...... 71 6.2.3 Motocross ...... 72 6.3 OTHER SERVICES ...... 73 6.3.1 Administrative and service buildings...... 73 6.3.2 Reception areas ...... 73 6.4 LOCAL AND REGIONAL TOURIST PACKAGE ...... 74 6.4.1 Green space and recreation networks ...... 75 6.4.2 Clientele and regional economy ...... 77 6.4.3 Summary of the main findings and development perspectives...... 78 7. STAKEHOLDERS, LOCAL AND REGIONAL ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES...... 79

7.1 GOVERNMENT AGENCIES ...... 79 7.2 REGIONAL PUBLIC AGENCIES ...... 80 7.2.1 Drainage basin agencies ...... 80 7.2.2 Regional concils...... 801 7.3 PRIVATE AGENCIES ...... 82 7.3.1 Community agencies/groups...... 82 8. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, DIRECTIONS AND VISIONS ...... 85

8.1 PROVINCIAL PLANNING , DIRECTION AND VISIONS ...... 85 8.1.2 Provincial Declaration of Principles 2005...... 85 8.1.3 Environmental heritage ...... 86 8.2 REGIONAL PLANNING , DIRECTION AND VISIONS ...... 87

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 8.2.1 CUPR official plan ...... 87 8.2.2 Strategic plan for Larose Forest...... 91 8.2.3 20-year forest management plan and 5-year forest management plan...... 91 8.3 MUNICIPAL PLANNING , DIRECTION AND VISIONS ...... 92 8.3.1 By-laws relating to tree cutting...... 92 9. REVIEW OF PROVINCIAL ACTS PERTAINING TO THE ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES...... 93

9.1 PLANNING ACT (R.S.O. 1990, C . P.13) ...... 93 9.1.1 Zoning by-law ...... 93 9.1.2 Implementation plan regulation...... 94 9.2 MUNICIPAL ACT (S.O. 2001, C . 25) ...... 95 9.2.1 Regulation on tree cutting (Art.135.)...... 95 9.2.2 Restrictions on panels and signs (Art.59.) ...... 95 9.2.3 Modification of a site (Art.142.) ...... 95 9.3 ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT (S.O. 1990, C . E. 15) ...... 96 9.4 OTHER PERTINENT ACTS ...... 97 10. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SOURCES FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND LOCAL AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND THEIR SPECIFICATIONS ...... 98

10.1 GOVERNMENTAL AND LOCAL FINANCIAL HELP ...... 98 10.1.1 Nature Canada Parks and People program ...... 98 10.1.2 Environmental Damages Fund ...... 100 10.1.3 Tree Canada ...... 100 10.1.4 Green Municipal Fund...... 101 10.2 PRIVATE FINANCIAL HELP...... 104 10.2.1 Nature Conservancy of Canada...... 104 10.2.2 Ontario Trillium Foundation ...... 105 10.2.3 East Ontario Development Program ...... 106 10.2.4 WILD School...... 108 10.2.5 Communities for Wildlife...... 109 10.2.6 Honda Canada Foundation ...... 110 10.2.7 Mountain Equipment Co-op Environment Fund...... 111 10.2.8 Conserving Canada's Forests Program...... 112 10.2.9 Golden Gardens...... 113 10.2.10 Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program...... 114 10.2.11 The Home Depot Foundation...... 115 10.2.12 Greencover Canada...... 116 10.2.13 Wildlife Preservation Trust Canada ...... 117

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

PART 2 : RECOMMANDATIONS ON THE ENVIRONMENT ...... 119 11. PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT VISION FOR LAROSE FOREST...... 122 12. KEY ISSUES, PROTECTION OBJECTIVES AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT ...... 123

12.1 ENVIRONMENT ...... 123 12.1.1 Pedology ...... 123 12.1.2 Landscapes ...... 123 12.1.3 Forest...... 124 12.1.4 Flora ...... 124 12.1.5 Wildlife...... 124 12.1.6 Hydrology ...... 125 12.2 ECONOMY ...... 126 12.2.1 Recreation...... 126 12.2.2 Education and research...... 126 12.2.3 Forest development...... 126 12.2.4 Agroforestry...... 127 12.3. SOCIETY ...... 128 12.3.1 Social and community progress...... 128 12.3.2 Cultural groups...... 128 12.3.3 Management ...... 129 12.3.4 Publicity...... 129 13. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT...... 130

13.1 INFRASTRUCTURE ARCHITECTURE ...... 130 13.2 INTERPRETATION TRAILS ...... 132 13.3 CHARACTERISTICS OF DEVELOPED AREAS ...... 133 13.3.1 Zone 1 : Grant Pine Forest (Tourist pole)...... 133 13.3.2 Zone 2 : Discovery Forest ...... 133 13.3.3 Zone 3 : South Nation River...... 133 13.3.4 Zone 4 : Activities excluded from other zones (possibilities)...... 133 13.4 PROGRAMMING ...... 134 13.5 GUIDELINES FOR MOTORIZED TRAILS AND INFRASTRUCTURES ...... 137 13.5.1 Environment : ...... 137 13.5.2 Society...... 138 13.6 MANAGEMENT OF WORKS DONE BY BEAVERS ...... 139 14. PLANNING...... 140

14.1 PHASE « 1 » : YEARS « N » - STABILIZATION OF REALIZATIONS ...... 140 14.2 PHASE « 2 » : YEARS « N + 2 » - DEVELOPMENT AND CORRECTIONS ...... 140 14.3 PHASE « 3 » : YEARS « N + 4 » - DEVELOPMENT AND IMPROVEMENT ...... 140 14.4 PHASE « 4 » : YEARS « N + 6 » CONSOLIDATION , EXPANSION AND MAINTENANCE ...... 140 15. APPENDICES...... 168

APPENDIX 1 : LIST OF MEMBERS OF THE LAROSE FOREST COMMITTEE ...... 169 APPENDIX 2 : EVALUATION METHODS OF THE ECOLOGICAL VALUE OF WETLANDS ...... 170 APPENDIX 3 : TABLES ...... 174

BIBLIOGRAPHY...... 212

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell LIST OF TABLES

Part 1 : Portrait of natural environment

Table 1: Comparison of meteorological data collected by Environment Canada between Montréal, Ottawa, Cornwall and Russell (Environment Canada, 2007)...... 10 Table 2. Surface deposits...... 12 Table 3 : Functional and simplified classification of wetlands – based on the classification produced by the Groupe de travail national sur les terres humides (1997)...... 17 Table 4 : Classification of the ecological value of the different wetlands surveyed in Larose Forest* ...... 19 Table 5 : Classification of the intervention priority for the 82 different culverts inventoried in December 2006...... 24 Table 6. Forest stands found in Larose Forest ...... 33 Table 9. Recommended tapping standards versus the diameter of the maple tree...... 40 Table 10. Measurement of the various physical, biological and anthropogenic parameters of forest corridors and attribution criteria for the first rank ...... 47 Table 11. Moose density observed in Larose Forest during aerial inventories by OMNR between 1991 and 2007 ...... 49 Table 12. Territory use by white tailed deer during winter...... 53 Table 13 : Territory use by ruffed grouse ...... 55

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Part 2 : Recommandations ont he natural environement

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell LIST OF FIGURES

Partie 1 : Portrait du milieu naturel

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Partie 2 : Recommandations on naturel environment

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

LIST OF APPENDICES

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

SUMMARY

Protection and Development Plan of Larose forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

CONTEXT

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

INTRODUCTION • • • • • Deleted: Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest Description of the study area Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest Official Plan of Prescott and Russell

Partners

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest Twenty Year Management Plan of Larose Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

1 METHODS

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

1.1 Inventory of resources and available information

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

1.2 Inventory methods

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

1.3 Public consultation process

Stage 1: Publication of a press release and presentation of the project Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

Stage 2: Presentation of part 1 of the PDP: diagnostic

Stage 3: Thematic exchange session

Stage 4: Presentation of the PDP, parts 1 and 2 Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

2 HISTORY OF LAROSE FOREST The major area of the forest is located South-West of the Bourget Village. Before 1928, this area was known as Before logging, pine forest used to cover this land but they have disappeared as the logs floated down the Ottawa River. Agriculture on this mellow soil was not a success a serious erosion of the fine sand followed.

This situation pushed Ferdinand Larose, representing the local farmers of the time, to start a development program. Mr. Larose maintained that growing the forests was essential for these light sandy loams to regain their consistency and that it would be possible, once more, to produce useful crops. The development program of the Bourget Desert was started around 1920. […] Other ecologists and members of the ministry (OMNR) also supported (Mr. Larose) in his efforts. Of course, their preoccupation was to stabilize the seas of sand and develop the regions attacked by the sandy plain of Prescott and Russell. […] The main objectives of this (plantation) was to stop water and wind erosion, economically produce wood of good quality, create jobs for local residents and serve as a model for the restocking of a forest region.

From the objectives set by Mr. Larose, tree growth was proportional to public requirements and the request for outdoor recreational and educational programs and environment conservation.

During the 1860’s, this site was cleared of the large white pines so that community buildings could be built. Without trees, survival of this region was not possible and Grant Village was to disappear.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

3 DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THE ABIOTIC COMPONENTS IN THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Climatology

3.1.1 Temperature and precipitation et al

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 1: Comparison of meteorological data collected by Environment Canada between Montréal, Ottawa, Cornwall and Russell (Environment Canada, 2007)

3.1.2 Impact of temperature on local biophysical components et al

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

3.2 Soils and geomorphology

3.2.1 Source rock

3.2.2 Surface deposits

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Deleted:

Table 2. Surface deposits

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 3.3 Altitude and landform • • •

3.3.1 Erosion risks

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

3.4 Hydrography

3.4.1 Drainage basins

3.4.2 Wetlands

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Classification of wetlands in Larose Forest

Groupe de travail national sur les terres humides (Warner et Rubec (éds)., 1997

United Counties of Prescott and Russell

Groupe de travail national sur les terres humides (1997) 124 distinct wetlands 1 585 hectares

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 3 : Functional and simplified classification of wetlands – based on the classification produced by the Groupe de travail national sur les terres humides (1997).

Classes Characteristics

shrub

tree

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Ecological value

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell average ecological value

Table 4 : Classification of the ecological value of the different wetlands surveyed in Larose Forest*

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Percentage of wetlands per sub-drainage basin et al Riparian strip Emydoidea blandingii et al

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 82 culverts

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 5 : Classification of the intervention priority for the 82 different culverts inventoried in December 2006.

• • • • • • • • • • Total 82 100%

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Drainage density

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

3.5 Landscapes

3.5.1 Landscapes units and micro-landscapes

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

3.5.2 Road landscapes

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 3.5.3 Natural landscapes of interest and cultural heritage landscapes

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

3.5.4 Physical access to the site and signage

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

4 DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THE BIOTIC COMPONENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENT 4.1 Forest and forest stands

4.1.1 Inventory methods • • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 4.1.2 Species groups

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 6. Forest stands found in Larose Forest

Total area Pourcentage of total Group of trees (ha) productive forest

Broadleaved forest 1925.4 30.40% Total

Mix forest 72.3 1.70% Total

Coniferous forest

Total 3565.6 57.20% 10.70% Total 6 272.8 100%

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

4.1.3 Forest Regeneration • •

4.1.4 Density of forest stands Protection and Development Plan for Larose Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

4.1.5 Health of forest stands Biological disturbances

Heterobasidion annosum Tomicus piniperda) Sirex noctilio Rhamnus frangula Rhamnus cathartica Phragmites australis (Lythrum salicaria ) (Cynanchum rossicum Xanthoxylum americanum Alliaria petiolata

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell H.annosum • • Picea Abies Larix

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Galerucella Disturbances due to fire • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

4.2 Botany Carex albicans) Platanthera grandiflora)

4.3 Non-timber forest components

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 4.3.1 Maple sugar potentials • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Table 9. Recommended tapping standards versus the diameter of the maple tree.

523 hectares, or 6,4 % of Larose Forest 174 000 taps Syndicat des producteurs de bois de la Beauce, 1998

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

4.3.2 Mushroom picking Mycologues amateurs du l’Outaouais

4.3.3 Cultivation of ginseng in the forest

Panax quinquefolius

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Panax quinquefolius

4.3.4 Harvesting of Canada yew

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Taxus canadensis Centre d’expertise sur les produits agro-forestiers Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec in situ

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

4.4 Wildlife habitat and wildlife

4.4.1 Regional context evaluation Loss of forest habitats regional level

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell local level et al. Fragmentation of residual forest habitats et al. et al

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Circulation corridor regional level et al.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Table 10. Measurement of the various physical, biological and anthropogenic parameters of forest corridors and attribution criteria for the first rank

Parameters Optimum

4.4.2 Large wildlife

Alces alces Odocoileus virginianus Ursus americana Moose (Alces alces) Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 11. Moose density observed in Larose Forest during aerial inventories by OMNR between 1991 and 2007

1- Overall aging and low representation of young hardwood and mixed forests • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 2- Absence of tranquillity • • • 3- Climatic warming and extreme conditions

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 4- Absence of natural predators et al 5- Competition with white tailed deer 6- Improper culling • • • • • •

White tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Winter habitat • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 12. Territory use by white tailed deer during winter

Needs to be met for white Stands on the territory that Recommendatio tailed deer have a good potential ns (Germain et al ., 1991)

Summer habitat Black bear (Ursus americana)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell • • •

4.3.3 Small wildlife Ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) • viburnum • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Table 13 : Territory use by ruffed grouse

Needs to be filled for Stands on the territory with good potential ruffed grouse Sectors of interest 708 9 % Snowshoe hare

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) and excavating birds et al American woodcock (Scolopax minor) •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell •

Canada beaver

4.3.4 Habitat potential for other species

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Amphibians Bufo americanus americanus Pseudacris crucifer crucifer Pseudacris triseriata Rana sylvatica Rana clamitans melonata

Reptiles Thamnophis sirtalis Chrysemys picta Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata Emydoidea Emys blandingii Chelydra serpentina serpentina

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell et al Birds Actitis macularia Parula americana Catharus ustulatus Buteo lineatus Strix nebulosa Melanerpes erythrocephalus Euphagus carolinus) Dendroica pinus Loxia leucoptera Caprimulgus vociferous) ,

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Mammals Procyon lotor Vulpes vulpes Other systematic groups

4.3.5 Habitat sectors with high wildlife potential

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

5. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT Protection Plan and Development

5.1 Results of public consultation

5.1.1 Step 1: Publication of a press release project, project presentation and step

2: Presentation of part 1 of the PDP: diagnostic

Resident's main concerns

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Main expectations and suggestions given

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

5.1.2 Step 3: Theme exchange sessions

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

5.2 Consultation with native communities

• Fraxinus nigra Betula papyrifera Thuja occidentalis Prunus serotina • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 1983, the Algonquins of Golden Lake (Pikwàkanagàn) presented the government of Canada with a claim for native rights and property ownership on the Ontario portion of the drainage basins of the Ottawa and Mattawa Rivers. Their demand was presented to the Ontario government in 1985"

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

6 DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THE TOURIST OPTION IN A NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

6.1 Activities, non-motorized infrastructures and associations

6.1.1 Hiking

6.1.2 Cross-country skiing

6.1.3 Horseback riding

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 6.1.4 Dogsleds

6.1.5 Education and interpretation

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

6.2 Activities, motorized infrastructures and associations

6.2.1 ATV • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell •

6.2.2 Snowmobile • et al., et al., • Fédération québécoise de la Faune

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

6.2.3 Motocross

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

6.3 Other services

6.3.1 Administrative and service buildings

6.3.2 Reception areas

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

6.4 Local and regional tourist package Vie active 2010 stratégie ontarienne pour l’aménagement des pistes et des sentiers, 2005

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

6.4.1 Green space and recreation networks

South Nation River

Prescott et Russell recreational trail UCPR networks of cycling paths Sentier récréatif Prescott et Russell

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Other recreation and green spaces

United Counties of Prescott and Russell

High Falls Alfred peatbog

United Counties of Stormont, Dundas & Glengary

Warwick Forest

National Capital region

Mer bleue

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Pine Grove Forest MacSkimming Outdoor Centre

6.4.2 Clientele and regional economy

Table 18: Main population pools located near Larose Forest

Locality Distance Time

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

6.4.3 Summary of the main findings and development perspectives Regional recreation network • • • • • Larose Forest • • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 7. STAKEHOLDERS, LOCAL AND REGIONAL ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES

7.1 Government agencies

Trees Ontario Foundation (TOF)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

7.2 Regional public agencies

7.2.1 Drainage basin agencies

Conservation Ontario

South Nation Conservation

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 7.2.2 Regional councils Eastern Ontario Model Forest

Prescott-Russell Stewardship

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

7.3 Private agencies

7.3.1 Community agencies/groups

Comité du BioBlitz

The Ottawa Field-Naturalists' Club Société environnementale de Clarence-Rockland / Clarence-Rockland Environmental Advisory Committee

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Mycologues amateurs de l’Outaouais

The Ontario Forestry Association Ducks Unlimited (Ottawa)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Boisé Est

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

8. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, DIRECTIONS AND VISIONS

Plan and Development of Larose Forest

8.1 Provincial planning, direction and visions

8.1.2 Provincial Policy Statement 2005

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

8.1.3 Environmental heritage Planning Act • • Drainage Act.

• • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 8.2 Regional planning, direction and visions

8.2.1 UCPR official plan

Environmental heritage Planning Act Wetlands

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Non-auhorized use : • Planning Act • • • •

Natural Sites of County Significance

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Significant Woodlands

Other important policies

Endangered or Threatened Species Habitat

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Significant Wildlife Habitat

Fish Habitat

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell River Corridors

8.2.2 Strategic plan for Larose Forest

8.2.3 20-year forest management plan and 5-year forest management plan

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

8.3 Municipal planning, direction and visions

8.3.1 By-laws relating to tree cutting

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

9. REVIEW OF PROVINCIAL ACTS PERTAINING TO THE ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES

9.1 Planning Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. P.13)

Planning Act

9.1.1 Zoning by-law

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

9.1.2 Implementation plan regulation

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

9.2 Municipal Act (S.O. 2001, c. 25)

Municipal Act

9.2.1 Regulation on tree cutting (Art.135.) Act on Forests

9.2.2 Restrictions on panels and signs (Art.59.)

9.2.3 Modification of a site (Art.142.)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 9.3 Endangered species Act (S.O. 1990, c. E. 15) Endangered species Act

Planning Act

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

9.4 Other pertinent acts

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

10. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SOURCES FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND LOCAL AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND THEIR SPECIFICATIONS

10.1 Governmental and local financial help

10.1.1 Nature Canada Parks and People program Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Description of Funding: Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

10.1.2 Environmental Damages Fund Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.1.3 Tree Canada Sponsor:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: Range of Funding Available: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.1.4 Green Municipal Fund

Sponsor:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Description:

Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded:

Description of Funding:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

10.2 Private financial help

10.2.1 Nature Conservancy of Canada Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: Description of Funding: Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

10.2.2 Ontario Trillium Foundation Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell • • • Range of Funding Available: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.2.3 East Ontario Development Program

Sponsor :

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

10.2.4 WILD School Sponsor:

Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: Range of Funding Available: Description of Funding: Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 10.2.5 Communities for Wildlife Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: Range of Funding Available: Description of Funding: Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

10.2.6 Honda Canada Foundation Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: Description of Funding: Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

10.2.7 Mountain Equipment Co-op Environment Fund Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded: Description of Funding: Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 10.2.8 Conserving Canada's Forests Program Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Range of Funding Available: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.2.9 Golden Gardens Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply: Types of Projects Funded:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Range of Funding Available: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.2.10 Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply:

Types of Projects Funded:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Range of Funding Available: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.2.11 The Home Depot Foundation Sponsor: Description: Who Can Apply:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Types of Projects Funded: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.2.12 Greencover Canada

Sponsor:

Description: Who Can Apply:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Types of Projects Funded: Description of Funding: Contact:

10.2.13 Wildlife Preservation Trust Canada

Sponsor: Description:

Who Can Apply:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Types of Projects Funded: Description of Funding: Contact:

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

PART 2 : RECOMMENDATIONS

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell PROTECTION PLAN AND DEVELOPMENT OF LAROSE FOREST – PART 2 : RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE ENVIRONMENT

Protection and Development Plan development vision Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest

Maintain environment integrity Ensure equity and social progress Aim for economic efficiency Social Environmental Livable progress protection Sustain able Fair Viable Economic growth Figure 45. Diagram of the concept of sustainable development

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell • • a development and protection pattern • a program of activities • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

11. PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT VISION FOR LAROSE FOREST

“ The Larose Forest is a restored natural habitat of regional importance, dedicated to the conservation and promotion of natural and cultural heritage, as well as to the promotion of sustainable activities in the United Counties of Prescott and Russell”

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

12. KEY ISSUES, PROTECTION OBJECTIVES AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

12.1 Environment is to ensure that Larose Forest plays a major role in terms of environmental protection.

12.1.1 Soils prevent erosion and soil impoverishment.

12.1.2 Landscapes protect and develop the existing landscapes of Larose Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 12.1.3 Forest , for the long-term, a minimum portion of artificial woodland in Larose Forest maintain and improve the health of the forest to ensure its sustainability.

12.1.4 Flora

maintain biodiversity in the natural environment of Larose Forest

12.1.5 Wildlife strengthen the role of the woodland as a refuge forest and corridor for the movement of wildlife.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell maintain a high amount of interior forest and deep interior forest

12.1.6 Hydrology ensure the protection of watercourses and wetlands.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

12.2 Economy stimulate, directly or indirectly, the local and regional economy.

12.2.1 Recreation develop and maintain extensive tourist activities in Larose Forest

12.2.2 Education and research educational and research potential, in this respect, the main objective of the PDP is to promote these activities.

12.2.3 Forest management provide wood products on a regular and renewable basis while employing ecologically sustainable management practices.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell generate revenues to be reinvested in the Forest Fund of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell.

12.2.4 Agroforestry support and oversee the management of agroforestry activities

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

12.3. Society integrate the public and cultural groups in the management and development of Larose Forest.

12.3.1 Social and community progress raise awareness of the public to the different aspects of the development and management of Larose Forest

12.3.2 Cultural groups integrate the interests and concerns of cultural groups into the management and development of Larose Forest.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

12.3.3 Management ensure efficient management of tourist activities in Larose Forest.

12.3.4 Publicity publicize Larose Forest according to the target clientele, protection vision and development retained.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

13. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT

13.1 Infrastructure architecture

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 13.2 Interpretation trails Grant Pine Forest Discovery Forest Nation Forest

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

13.3 Characteristics of developed areas

13.3.1 Zone 1 : Grant Pine Forest (Tourist pole) • • • • • • • • •

13.3.2 Zone 2 : Discovery Forest

• • • • • •

13.3.3 Zone 3 : South Nation River

• • • • •

13.3.4 Zone 4 : Activities excluded from other zones (possibilities)

• • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

13.4 Programming

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 22 : Programming of activities

Avoid or not- Description / Notes Existing Sufficient Improve Create applicable SUMMER ACTIVITIES Non-motorized Network of loops between x Hiking x x reception A and B Cycling path (multifunction) x Between reception A and B Mountain bikes x Herbetisme x Zone 1 Horseback riding x x Between reception A and B Treego ? Zone 1 Climbing x Maze X Bow and arrow x Near Larose Forest Games for kids (2-5 years) ? Zone 1, near reception area Games for kids (5-12 years) x Games for adults (law bowling, horse shoes) x Hunting x Motorized vehicles ATV x x Motocross x X Zone 4 JEEP x X Zone 4 Aquatic Canoe ? Possible stop in zone 3 Canoe-camping x Kayak ? Possible stop in zone 3 Fishing x WINTER ACTIVITIES Non-motorized Cross-country ski, classic x x Between reception A and B Cross-country ski, skating' x Between reception A and B Cross-country ski, Nordic x Between reception A and B x Snowshoes in zones 1 and 2 Between reception A and B

Dog sled x x in zone 1 Skating x Ice climbing x Hunting x Motorized Snowmobile x x ATV x x EDUCATION AND INTERPRÉTATION Nature interpretation x Zones 1, 2 and 3 History interpretation x Zones 1 and 3 Outside amphitheatre (courses and theatre) x Organized activities Bioblizt and university

Research x x research Zone 1 conductive for this

Bird watching x x activity Zone 1 (design an X appropriate building or Star gazing other

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Avoid or not- Description / Notes Existing Sufficient Improve Create applicable Geocaching x SERVICES Reception building X Reception A (one building) Sanitary installations X Reception A and B Interpretation centre X Reception A (one building Shelter (picnic, rest, information) X Reception B and C Parking x x X Reception A, B and C Picnic area x X Reception A, B and C Grouping area X Zone 1, near reception area LODGING Primitive campground x Winter camping x Refuge (relay) x Between reception A and B Prospector camp ? Factual at reception A Tepee ? Factual at reception A Yurt ? Factual at reception A For the refuge or reception ? A (according to architectural Tree house style) FURNITURE In picnic areas (zone 1,2 x Picnic tables x and 3) Zones 1, 2, 3, non.mot. trail, x Benches refuge and vista In picnic areas of zones 1,2, x Garbage cans x 3, and refuge Fountain x Reception A and B Reception A (if site is used x Lighting at night)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell 13.5 Guidelines for motorized trails and infrastructures

13.5.1 Environment : • • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell •

13.5.2 Society

• •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

13.6 Management of works done by beavers

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

14. PLANNING 14.1 Phase « 1 » : years « n » - Stabilization of realizations 14.2 Phase « 2 » : years « n + 2 » - Development and corrections 14.3 Phase « 3 » : years « n + 4 » - Development and improvement 14.4 Phase « 4 » : years « n + 6 » Consolidation, expansion and maintenance

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Table 23. Analyses, key issues, objectives and measures.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Table 24. Summary of development costs

Phase Objectives Years Number of Cost measures • • • • • • • • • •

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

15. APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1 : LIST OF MEMBERS OF THE LAROSE FOREST COMMITTEE ...... 169 APPENDIX 2 : EVALUATION METHODS OF THE ECOLOGICAL VALUE OF WETLANDS ...... 170 APPENDIX 3 : TABLES ...... 174

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Appendix 1 : List of members of the Larose forest committee

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Appendix 2 : Evaluation methods of the ecological value of wetlands

et al

Relative value criteria Area of wetlands

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

n Plant diversity

et al Absolute value criteria Hydroperiodicity

Integrity of the surrounding environment Hydroconnectivity

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell Dominance of water associated species

Scarcity Classes Ecological Value

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Appendix 3 : Tables Table 7. List of vegetal species seen in wetlands by Horizon multiressource inc (2007)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 8. LIST OF VEGETAL SPECIES SEEN IN NON -HUMID HABITATS BY HORIZON MULTIRESSOURCE INC (2007)

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 14 : LIST OF AMPHIBIAN SPECIES SEEN IN THE LAROSE FOREST

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 15 : LIST OF REPTILE SPECIES SEEN IN THE LAROSE FOREST

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 16 : LIST OF BIRD SPECIES SEEN IN THE LAROSE FOREST DURING THE 2007 SURVEY CONDUCTED BY HORIZON MULTIRESSOURCE INC .

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 17 : LIST OF MAMMAL SPECIES SEEN IN THE LAROSE FOREST

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 19 : COMPILATION OF THE POPULATION ’S CONCERNS , EXPECTATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE MANAGEMENT, THE PRESERVATION AND THE PROMOTION OF THE LAROSE FOREST

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 20 : COMMENTS BY THE LAROSE FOREST COMMITTEE DURING THE CONSULTATION CONDUCTED ON THE 29 TH OF NOVEMBER 2007.

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

TABLE 21 : COMMENTS BY THE INVITED PARTICIPANTS DURING THE CONSULTATION CONDUCTED ON THE 29 TH OF NOVEMBER .

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell

Protection and Development Plan of Larose Forest United Counties of Prescott et Russell In