Natural Environment Report

Schedule ‘C’ Environmental Assessment for 16th Avenue between Yonge Street and Woodbine Avenue

Appendix G Natural Environment Report

Accessible formats are available upon request.

NATURAL HERITAGE REPORT

IMPROVEMENTS TO 16TH AVENUE (Y.R.73) FROM YONGE STREET (Y.R. 1) TO WOODBINE AVENUE (Y.R. 8) YORK REGION SCHEDULE ‘C’ MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

prepared for:

prepared by:

NOVEMBER 2018

NATURAL HERITAGE REPORT

IMPROVEMENTS TO 16TH AVENUE (Y.R.73) FROM YONGE STREET (Y.R. 1) TO WOODBINE AVENUE (Y.R. 8) YORK REGION SCHEDULE ‘C’ MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT STUDY

prepared by: prepared by:

LISA CATCHER, B.A. JUDSON VENIER, M.Sc. Botanist/Certified Arborist Senior Fisheries Biologist

reviewed by:

CONSTANCE J. AGNEW, B.Sc. Vice-President, Senior Planning Ecologist

LGL Limited environmental research associates 22 Fisher Street, P.O. Box 280 King City, Ontario L7B 1A6 Tel: 905-833-1244 Fax: 905-833-1255 E-mail: [email protected] URL: www.lgl.com

NOVEMBER 2018 LGL Project # TA8627A Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1

2.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 2

2.1 Aquatic Habitats and Communities ...... 2 2.1.1 German Mills Creek ...... 5 2.1.2 Beaver Creek ...... 5 2.1.3 Rouge River Main Branch...... 6 2.1.4 Species at Risk ...... 6

2.2 Vegetation and Vegetation Communities ...... 7 2.2.1 Vegetation Communities ...... 7 2.2.2 Vegetation ...... 12 2.2.3 Species at Risk ...... 12

2.3 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat ...... 12 2.3.1 Wildlife Habitat ...... 13 2.3.2 Fauna ...... 13 2.3.3 Species at Risk ...... 16

2.4 Designated Natural Areas ...... 20

3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 20

4.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ...... 20

4.1 Aquatic Habitats and Communities ...... 20 4.1.1 Temporary Disruption or Permanent Loss of Site-Specific Habitat ...... 21 4.1.2 Temporary Change to Water Quality ...... 21 4.1.3 Changes in Water Temperature ...... 22 4.1.4 Barriers to Fish Passage ...... 22 4.1.5 Restoration/Enhancement...... 22

4.2 Vegetation and Vegetation Communities ...... 22 4.2.1 Displacement and/or Disturbance to Vegetation Communities/Vegetation ...... 22 4.2.2 Displacement of Rare, Threatened or Endangered Vegetation or Significant Vegetation ...... 23

4.3 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat ...... 24 4.3.1 Displacement of Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat ...... 24 4.3.2 Barrier Effects on Wildlife Passage ...... 24 4.3.3 Wildlife/Vehicle Conflicts ...... 24 4.3.4 Disturbance to Wildlife from Noise, Light and Visual Intrusion ...... 25 4.3.5 Potential Impacts to Migratory Birds ...... 25 4.3.6 Displacement of Rare, Threatened or Endangered Wildlife or Significant Wildlife Habitat ...... 25

4.4 Designated Natural Areas ...... 25

5.0 PERMITS AND APPROVALS DURING DETAIL DESIGN ...... 26

5.1 Fisheries Act...... 26

5.2 Endangered Species Act ...... 26

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page ii

5.3 TRCA Regulation 166/06 ...... 26

6.0 REFERENCES ...... 27

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Key map – Study Area, Yonge Street to York/Durham Line ...... 1 Figure 2. Key map – Study Area A, Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue...... 1 Figure 3. Fisheries Existing Conditions...... 4 Figure 4a. Natural Heritage Existing Conditions ...... 8 Figure 4b. Natural Heritage Existing Conditions ...... 9 Figure 4c. Natural Heritage Existing Conditions ...... 10

LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Historical Fish Collection Records Within The Study Area ...... 3 Table 2. Summary of Ecological Land Classification Vegetation Communities ...... 11 Table 3. Summary of Date of Inventory, Task, Weather and Personnel ...... 13 Table 4. Wildlife Species Documented within the Study Area by LGL and Others ...... 14 Table 5. Wildlife Species at Risk Summary ...... 18

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A. Photographic Record-Fisheries Appendix B. Vascular Plant List Appendix C. Acronyms and Definitions Used in Species Lists

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION One of the major east-west corridors in York Region is 16th Avenue located in the Town of Richmond Hill and the City of Markham. The Region’s transportation and roadway management strategies identify future road network needs in the Region and have identified the need for capacity improvements along 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to York/Durham Line. Accordingly, the Region is conducting a Schedule ‘C’ Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) to investigate improvements to the existing transportation capacity of 16th Avenue between these two terminal points. The study limits are shown below in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Key map – Study Area, Yonge Street to York/Durham Line

Two (2) separate EA studies will be conducted concurrently; one that explores improvements to 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue (Study Area A), and one that explores improvements to 16th Avenue from Woodbine Avenue to York/Durham Line (Study Area B). The study limits for this EA, (16th Avenue from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue, Study Area A) are presented in Figure 2.

Figure 2. Key map – Study Area A, Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue.

This Class EA is being conducted by HDR Corporation on behalf of York Region. LGL Limited, as a sub- consultant to HDR, is providing natural heritage services. This Natural Heritage Report documents the result of the data collected and analysis in the summer of 2016, and the potential effects of this project on natural heritage, including environmental protection measures.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 2

This Natural Heritage Report – Existing Conditions documents the results of data collection and analysis in the summer of 2016. The potential effects of this project on natural heritage, including environmental protection measures, will be presented in a final Natural Heritage Report.

2.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS The following discussion outlines the existing environmental conditions within the study area and identifies natural heritage areas and/or features of environmental sensitivity and/or significance. 2.1 Aquatic Habitats and Communities The study area for 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue is located within two watersheds: the Don River watershed and the Rouge River watershed. German Mills Creek is found within the Don River watershed while Beaver Creek and the Rouge River are located within the Rouge River watershed. All watercourses that occur within the study limits are under the jurisdiction of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF).

Background Data LGL conducted a secondary source review to identify the fish community within the watersheds. The secondary source review included a species at risk screening though aquatic species at risk mapping (DFO, 2015) and the Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) database (MNRF 2016). Background review also included personal correspondence with the MNRF Aurora District Office regarding species at risk and fish collection records (June 20, 2016) and correspondence with the TRCA regarding fish sensitivity and fisheries collection records in the study area watercourses (May 16, 2016). LGL also reviewed the Don River Watershed Plan (TRCA 2009), the Rouge River Watershed Fisheries Management Plan (TRCA/MNR 2010), and a Class Environmental Assessment previously conducted by LGL Limited along 16th Avenue, between Yonge Street and McCowan Road (LGL Limited 2007).

According to background investigations, regulated habitat for one aquatic species at risk occurs within the study limits of 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue. Redside Dace (Clinostomus elongates), has been identified by secondary source information as occurring within the Rouge River watershed (Rouge River main branch) (DFO 2015, MNRF, 2016).

LGL dip net sampling during field investigations for each of the above watercourses also provided fisheries community information. A summary of the fish communities present within the watercourses in the vicinity of the study area are presented in Table 1.

Field Investigations LGL fisheries specialists visited 16th Avenue between Yonge Street and Woodbine Avenue on May 6, May 10 and August 12, 2016 to observe and document existing aquatic habitat conditions. The weather conditions during the May 6th site visit were sunny and 20°C, with north winds 15 km/h. The weather conditions during the May 10th site visit were partly cloudy and 13°C with south winds <10km/h The weather conditions during the August site visit were partly cloudy and 33°C with west winds 20 km/h.

Physical habitat features were surveyed in sufficient detail to enable mapping and identification of key habitat types. The physical habitat attributes assessed included: (a) instream cover, (b) bank stability, (c) substrate characteristics, (d) stream dimensions, (e) barriers, (f) stream morphology, (g) terrain characteristics, (h) stream canopy cover, (i) stream gradient, (j) aquatic vegetation, (k) ground water seepage areas, and (l) general comments. Figure 3 presents the location of the crossings identified within this section of the study area. An aquatic habitat summary is presented below which describes existing conditions at each of the watercourse crossings. Representative photographs of the crossings were also taken during investigations and are provided in Appendix A.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report – Existing Conditions Page 3

TABLE 1. HISTORICAL FISH COLLECTION RECORDS WITHIN THE STUDY AREA

German Mills Rouge River Scientific Name Common Name Beaver Creek COSEWIC SARA MNRF Provincial Creek Main Branch

American Brook Lethenteron appendix x - - - S3 Lamprey Carassius auratus Goldfish z z x,z - - - SNA

Chrosomus eos Northern Redbelly Dace z x - - - S5 Clinostomus elongatus Redside Dace z END SC END S2 Cyprinus carpio Common Carp z z - - - SNA Luxilus cornutus Common Shiner z x,z - - - S5 Pimephales notatus Bluntnose Minnow x z x,z - - - S5 Pimephales promelas Fathead Minnow x,z z x,z - - - S5 Rhinichthys cataractae Longnose Dace z z x,z - - - S5 Rhinichthys atratulus Blacknose Dace x,z z,y x,z - - - SNR Semotilus atromaculatus Creek Chub x,z z x,z,y - - - S5

Catostomus commersonii White Sucker z z,y x,z,y - - - S5 Ameiurus nebulosus Brown Bullhead z x - - - S5 Noturus flavus Stonecat x,z - - - S4

Oncorhynchus mykiss Rainbow Trout x,z - - - SNA Salmo trutta Brown Trout x - - - SNA Culaea inconstans Brook Stickleback z z,y x,z - - - S5 Ambloplites rupestris Rock Bass x - - - S5 Micropterus salmoides Largemouth Bass x - - - S5 Lepomis gibbosus Pumpkinseed x z x,z - - - S5 Etheostoma nigrum Johnny Darter z z x,z - - - S5 Etheostoma caeruleum Rainbow Darter x,z - - - S4 Note: x = TRCA Collection Data (May 2016) y = LGL observations (May/August 2016) z= Secondary Sources; Don River Watershed Plans (Sampling conducted in 2005) (TRCA, 2009), Draft Rouge River Watershed Fisheries Management Plan (TRCA, 2010), LGL records from Previous EA (2007) *Refer to Appendix C for Acronyms, Definitions used in the Species List

LGL LIMITED L E G E N D

Permanent Coldwater Watercourse

Permanent Coolwater Watercourse

Permanent Warmwater Watercourse

Redside Dace Regulated Watercourse Major Mackenzie Drive Watercourse Not Surveyed

¡[ Fish Habitat

Watercourse Flow Direction

Yonge Street

Leslie Street

Bayview Avenue Highway 404

Woodbine Avenue ¡[

16th Avenue ¡[ ¡[

e a v e r C Data Sources: LGL Limited field surveys, Ministry of Natural G re erman e Resources and Forestry, York Region. M k ill s Ro Cr ug 400 200 0 400 Metres ee e k R ´ iv e

FISHERIES EXISTING CONDITIONS

Po m

o n a C r e e k Highway 7

Project: TA8627 Figure: 3

October, 2016 MWF Highway 407 Date: Prepared By: Scale: 1 : 20,000 Checked By: SLL

D:\_TA\TA8627 - 16th Avenue\Maps\FishYongeToWoodbine.mxd Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 5

2.1.1 German Mills Creek German Mills Creek flows underneath 16th Avenue east of Yonge Street, as well as Red Maple Road, located parallel to and south of 16th Avenue, via a 4 cell concrete box structure. At this location, 16th Avenue is an overpass for the railway corridor and the culvert inlet/outlet is greater than 30 m from 16th Avenue to the north and south. During both the spring and summer field investigations, flow was being conveyed by the two easterly cells only. At the inlet, the two westerly cells were choked by woody debris, effectively blocking the cells.

The north (upstream) section of channel appears to have been historically channelized between the residential area to the east and the railway to the west. The channel averages 3-4 m in width and 20-40 cm in depth. Bankfull measures 10 m in width and 60 cm in depth. Pool habitat was not identified in this section, as the entire stretch is riffle/run habitat. Substrates are comprised of rubble, gravel silt and detritus. Riparian cover was moderate throughout this channel, and was provided by emergent vegetation, trees and shrubs. Minor erosion was apparent along both banks. Immediately upstream of the culvert inlet, gabion protection lines the riparian zone of the channel.

South (downstream) the channel characteristics are very different. A large floodplain was evident in the vicinity of the outlet and appeared to be attributed to a woody debris jam. In this location, the bankfull width appears to reach up to 20 m in width. The jam also appears to be contributing to bank erosion along the east shoreline. Downstream of this channel constriction, creek morphology is predominantly flat. The average wetted dimensions of the channel through this section are 4 m in width and 40 cm in depth, with bankfull reaching 20 m in width and 70 cm depth. Substrates are fine, consisting primarily of silt and detritus but scattered rubble is present. Instream and riparian cover are low through this section of channel. No fish were observed within the watercourse during field investigations, or captured by dip netting.

According to the Don River Watershed Plan, German Mills Creek has a coldwater thermal regime, however it supports a tolerant warm/coolwater fish community and no species at risk (TRCA 2009). This watercourse supports permanent fish habitat within the vicinity of 16th Avenue. 2.1.2 Beaver Creek The inlet to the Beaver Creek crossing structure of 16th Avenue is located approximately 180 m to the north of 16th Avenue, on the west side of Leslie Street. Upstream of the crossing, Beaver Creek is channelized and is bordered by a corridor of Phragmites to the north and trees/shrubs to the south. The watercourse at this upstream section is stagnant and is choked with algae at the culvert inlet. The channel measures approximately 5 m in width, with a large floodplain, ~20 m. The observed depth at the culvert inlet was approximately 30 cm, however depths further upstream are likely greater. Water clarity was noted to be very poor at this watercourse during both field investigations. Substrates are predominantly fine, consisting of silt and detritus. Cover within the upstream section is low instream and through the riparian area. A stormwater outlet is present approximately 25 m north of the culvert inlet and outflow joins the main channel before entering the Leslie Street inlet. The crossing structure inlet is a concrete drop structure, with a grate, creating a barrier to fish movement. From this point, the watercourse is piped for ~230 m underneath Leslie Street and 16th Avenue.

The creek outlets at the southeast quadrant of 16th Avenue and Leslie Street via a two cell concrete box structure with grates at both outlets. The majority of the flow was being outletted from the westerly cell, however, some flow was outletting from the east cell. The channel and banks are gabion lined for approximately 20 m downstream of the outlet. A gabion slope retaining structure is also present along the west side of the creek. Downstream of the gabion section, riffles, runs and pools are present. Instream and riparian cover is high throughout the area of assessment. The cover is provided by riparian trees, instream woody debris and some undercut banks. Substrates within the channel are variable; including silt and

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 6 detritus at the outlet, but further downstream, substrates are diversified to cobble, silt, sand, gravel, detritus and clay. The channel averages 2.5 m in width and 20-30 cm in depth, with some pools appearing to reach 40 cm in depth. Bankfull measurements average 5 m width and 80 cm depth. Severe bank erosion was noted on bends between 50-100 m downstream of the culvert outlet. Blacknose Dace, White Sucker and Brook Stickleback were captured by dip net at this watercourse downstream of the 16th Avenue crossing.

According to the Draft Rouge River Watershed Fisheries Management Plan, Beaver Creek within the study area is a coolwater watercourse which supports tolerant minnow species and White Sucker (TRCA 2010). This watercourse supports permanent fish habitat within the vicinity of 16th Avenue. 2.1.3 Rouge River Main Branch The Rouge River crossing at 16th Avenue is a single span bridge structure. Upstream of the 16th Avenue crossing, the watercourse flows through meadow habitat with fairly low riparian cover. According to historical air photo interpretation, this area was a golf course approximately 10 years ago. The current riparian conditions are meadow, with adjacent fields currently being used for agricultural purposes. A buffer of natural riparian area is present along the watercourse banks; however, in some locations only a small buffer (~2 m) is separating the planted field from the watercourse. The channel averages 4.5 m in width and 30-40 cm in depth with bankfull measurements averaging 5.5 m in width and 70 cm depth. Morphology is diverse; however instream cover is fairly low. Both banks exhibited moderate erosion, and along bends, erosion appears more severe. Iron staining was observed on the east bank. Substrates include silt, sand, cobble and detritus. Two ponds are located near the watercourse within the upstream area of investigation. A pipe is connecting the southerly pond to the watercourse; however, due to the size of the pipe, and that the end in the pond appears to be buried, it would appear fish passage is not possible, therefore this pond would be considered offline. A connection to the watercourse could not be located with the pond to the north, therefore this pond should also be considered offline, with no fish passage possible.

Downstream of the 16th Avenue crossing, meadow continues to be representative of the riparian habitat. The extended riparian area also appears to be undisturbed. Cover remains fairly low, however instream cover is more prominent in the downstream section and is provided by instream woody debris. The channel averages 4.5 m in width and 30 cm in depth. Riffles/runs and pools are all common throughout this section of channel, with some pools appearing to reach depths of 50 cm. Substrates in this section of channel include cobble, silt, sand and gravel. Bank erosion is also fairly severe throughout this channel, especially on outside bends. A spawning redd, likely for Rainbow Trout, was identified approximately 70 m downstream of 16th Avenue.

According to the Draft Rouge River Watershed Fisheries Management Plan, the main branch of the Rouge River within the study area is a coolwater watercourse and provides a migratory route for lake run salmonids. The plan also noted significant areas of groundwater discharge and priority in-stream barriers downstream of the study area (TRCA 2010). According to the DFO aquatic species at risk mapping, Redside Dace regulated habitat is present in the reach of the Rouge River within the study area limits (DFO 2015). This watercourse supports permanent fish habitat within the vicinity of 16th Avenue.

2.1.4 Species at Risk As stated above, based on a review of the MNRF Natural Heritage Information Centre database, DFO Species at Risk mapping, and personal correspondence with MNRF, one aquatic species at risk occurs within the study limits of 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue. Redside Dace (Clinostomus elongates), has been identified as occurring within the Rouge River watershed (Rouge River main branch) (DFO 2015, MNRF, 2016).

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 7

2.2 Vegetation and Vegetation Communities The geographical extent, composition, structure and function of the vegetation communities were identified through air photo interpretation and a field investigation. Air photos were interpreted to determine the limits and characteristics of the vegetation communities in the study area. Field investigations of the vegetation communities along 16th Avenue, from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue, were conducted on June 3, 2016. These vegetation surveys were conducted within a distance of approximately 10 m to 20 m north and south of 16th Avenue.

The vegetation communities were classified according to the Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation and Its Application (Lee et al. 1998), to the extent possible. A plant list and a description of the general structure of vegetation were obtained during the field surveys of the study area. Plant species status was reviewed for Ontario (Oldham 2009), for York Region (Riley 1999; Varga 2000), and the Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA 2009). Vascular plant nomenclature follows Newmaster et al. (1998) with a few exceptions that have been updated to Newmaster et al. (2007).

It is important to note that the extent of field investigations within vegetation communities adjacent to 16th Avenue were limited to the area that may be impacted due to proposed improvements along the 16th Avenue corridor. The vegetation survey included the area 10 m to 20 m from the existing shoulder, where possible, and the planted median strips. The classification of vegetation communities presented in this report reflects only the portion of the vegetation communities surveyed. 2.2.1 Vegetation Communities Vegetation communities within the study area consist of a mixture of meadow, thicket and savannah, as well as manicured areas and planted hedgerows. Along most of 16th Avenue the land has been cleared of original forest cover to accommodate residential, commercial and institutional land uses.

The 16th Avenue study area from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue is dominated by vegetation that is manicured and regularly maintained, as well as vegetation communities that are culturally influenced. Plant species identified within manicured and culturally influenced areas consist of a high proportion of non- native plant species that are well adapted to persist in areas that are regularly disturbed including species that are adapted to high light conditions, limited soil moisture, and species that are tolerant of salt spray. Where necessary, vegetation communities were separately identified due to variations in species dominance or differences in location across the study area.

Overall, a total of three ELC vegetation community series were identified, all of which are anthropogenic/cultural communities including: Dry-Moist Old Field Meadow (CUM1-1), Sumac Cultural Thicket (CUT1-1), and Cultural Savannah (CUS1) (see Figures 4a to 4c). The vegetation communities identified within the study area which are delineated on the above noted figures, are described in Table 2.

All of the vegetation communities are considered widespread and common in Ontario and secure globally. The determination of some vegetation community types was limited to survey/community limits associated with property access. There are many manicured areas (M) identified within the study area that are not identified as ELC vegetation communities, these include mown lawns, planted gardens and areas with planted roadside boulevard trees. Vegetation surveyed both north and south of 16th Avenue between Yonge Street and Leslie Street consist primarily of manicured areas.

LGL LIMITED L E G E N D

«[ Breeding Bird Point Count Station (LGL 2016)

Watercourse Flow Direction OAO1 CUW1-D BERWICK CRESCENT Watercourse CUW1-b

CUW1-b ESTORIL STREET Vegetation Communities Vegetation Community Boundary M Manicured TRCA Vegetation Communities

Vegetation Community Boundary (TRCA)

YONGE STREET M M M CUP2-A M CUM1-A Native Forb Meadow

M 1 CUP2-A Restoration Mixed Plantation M M 16TH AVENUE «[ M M M CUW1-b Exotic Successional Woodland M M M M

M M M

M M CUW1-D Hawthorn Successional Woodland M M M M M M M M M MAS2-1b Narrow-leaved Cattail Mineral Shallow Marsh M M M M M M M M M M M Open Aquatic (unvegetated) M M M M M OAOI M M M M M M M M M M SAS1-1 Pondweed Submerged Shallow Aquatic SWT2-2 Willow Mineral Thicket Swamp

CN Railway

CUW1-b MAS2-1b

SAS1-1 SWT2-2 German Mills Creek CUP1-A

REDMAPLE ROAD SWT2-2

CUM1-A MATCH LINE A

BELINDA COURT

ELMSLEY DRIVE

NORTHERN HEIGHTS DRIVE

Data Sources: LGL Limited field surveys, Ministry of Natural GORDON ROWE CRESCENT Resources and Forestry, York Region. SOMERSET CRESCENT LOIS FAYE COURTLOIS FAYE 50 25 0 50 Metres ´ M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 16TH AVENUE NATURAL HERITAGE M M M M M M M M M M M M M M BAYVIEWAVENUE M M M M M M M M M M M M EXISTING CONDITIONS M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M YONGE STREET TO M M M M M WOODBINE AVENUE

OLD 16TH AVENUE

ELMAVENUE

FERN AVENUEFERN LOREDANA COURT

Project: TA8627 Figure: 4a

Date: November, 2018 Prepared By: JJP

MATCH LINE A MATCH LINE B Scale: 1 : 3000 Checked By: NMF DUNCAN ROAD

D:\OneDrive - LGL Limited\_TA\TA8627 - 16th Avenue\Maps\NHaYongeToWoodbine.mxd EDMUND CRESCENT

L E G E N D

AVA CRESCENT «[ Breeding Bird Point Count Station (LGL 2016) GLENARDEN CRESCENT Watercourse Flow Direction

Watercourse Vegetation Communities

Vegetation Community Boundary CUT1-1 Sumac Cultural Thicket Type M GARDINER CRESCENT M Manicured M TRCA Vegetation Communities Vegetation Community Boundary (TRCA) M CUP1-A Restoration Deciduous Plantation M MAM2-2 FOD7-3 Fresh-Moist Willow Lowland Deciduous Forest

MAS2-1A ELDERWOOD DRIVE MAM-2 Reed Canary Grass Mineral Meadow Marsh FOD7-3 M MAS2-1A Broad-leaved Cattail Mineral Shallow Marsh M M M M M M OAO1 Open Aquatic (unvegetated) 2 M OLD 16TH AVENUE «[ M 16TH AVENUE M M M M M M M

KEVI CRESCENT

HORIZON COURT

MONTESANO CRESCENT

COMPTON CRESCENT

STRATHEARN AVENUE MATCH LINE B MATCH LINE C

KILLARNEY STREET CUP1-A

DEWBOURNE AVENUE

EASTGATE CRESCENT

SHALLMAR GARDENS

CHAPLIN COURT Data Sources: LGL Limited field surveys, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, York Region. WENDOVER COURT HORNER COURT Beaver Creek

LESLIE STREET 50 25 0 50 Metres

SPADINA ROAD ´

M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M NATURAL«[ HERITAGE 16TH AVENUE EXISTING CONDITIONS M M YONGE STREET TO M M M M M M M M CUT1-1 M M

M M M FOD7-3 WOODBINE AVENUE

M M M OAO1

FOD7-3

GRANTON DRIVE

VALLEYMEDEDRIVE

COMPTON CRESCENT

HEARTHSTONE CRESCENT CUP1-A EASTDALE CRESCENT Project: TA8627 Figure: 4b HORIZON COURT MEADOWCLIFFE AVENUE Date: November, 2018 Prepared By: JJP MATCH LINE C MATCH LINE D Scale: 1 : 3000 Checked By: NMF

D:\OneDrive - LGL Limited\_TA\TA8627 - 16th Avenue\Maps\NHbYongeToWoodbine.mxd

SOUTHGATE CRESCENT L E G E N D

«[ Breeding Bird Point Count Station (LGL 2016)

Watercourse Flow Direction

Watercourse Vegetation Communities

Vegetation Community Boundary CUM1-1 (a,b) Dry-Moist Old Field Meadow Type

VOGELL ROAD CUS1 Mineral Cultural Savannah Ecosite CUT1-1 Sumac Cultural Thicket Type CUM1-1a Ag Agriculture M CUM1-1a M M CUM1-1a M Manicured M CUM1-1a M M M M M 3 M TRCA Vegetation Communities «[ 4 «[ Vegetation Community Boundary (TRCA)

M M 16TH AVENUE M CUP1-A Restoration Deciduous Plantation M M M M CUM1-1a CUM1-1a M CUM1-1a CUP1-c Exotic Forb Meadow M CUM1-1a

CUT1-1 CUW1-b Exotic Successional Woodland

FOD7-3 FOD7-3 Fresh-Moist Willow Lowland Deciduous Forest M HIGHWAY 404 FOD7-4 Fresh-Moist Black Walnut Lowland Deciduous Forest OAO1 Open Aquatic (unvegetated)

CUP1-A

FOD7-3 OAO1 FOD7-4

B e a v e LEEK CRESCENT HIGHWAY 404 r CUW1-b C re e MURAL STREET k OAO1 MATCH LINE C MATCH LINE B FOD7-3 FOD7-3 CUP1-c

CACHET WOODS COURT

ou Data Sources: LGL Limited field surveys, Ministry of Natural g er Resources and Forestry, York Region. e Riv 5 50 25 0 50 Metres «[ ´ HIGHWAY 404HIGHWAY RAMP M WOODBINE AVENUE

M M M M M M M Ag M M M M CUM1-1b M M M NATURAL HERITAGE 16TH AVENUE 6 M M M «[ EXISTING CONDITIONS M M M M CUM1-1a M M M YONGE STREET TO M M M M M CUS1 WOODBINE AVENUE M M CALEB WAY M M M

MICHAEL WAY

MELISSAWAY

ASALIN WAY

AARON WAY

Project: TA8627 Figure: 4c DREW KELLY WAY Date: November, 2018 Prepared By: JJP MATCH LINE C 1 : 3000 NMF ALBERT BAILY WAY Scale: Checked By:

D:\OneDrive - LGL Limited\_TA\TA8627 - 16th Avenue\Maps\NHcYongeToWoodbine.mxd Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 11

TABLE 2. SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL LAND CLASSIFICATION VEGETATION COMMUNITIES ELC Vegetation Type Species Association Community Characteristics Code TERRESTRIAL CUM Cultural Meadow CUM1-1a Mineral Dry – Moist Ground Cover: includes awnless • Cultural communities (CU). and b Old Field Meadow brome (Bromus inermis ssp. inermis), • Tree cover and shrub cover wild carrot (Daucus carota), bird’s- < 25 % (M). foot trefoil (Lotus corniculata), and • This community can occur on Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis). a wide range of soil moisture regimes (Dry-Moist). • Pioneer community resulting from, or maintained by, anthropogenic-based influences. • Dominated by grasses and forbs. CUT Cultural Thicket • Cultural communities (CU). CUT1-1 Mineral Sumac Canopy: staghorn sumac (Rhus • Tree cover and shrub cover < Cultural Thicket typhina) is abundant. 25 %, shrub cover >25% (T). Ground Cover: includes garlic • This community can occur on mustard (Alliaria petiolate), and a wide range of soil moisture Canada goldenrod (Solidago regimes (Dry-Moist) (-1). canadensis). • Pioneer community resulting from, or maintained by, anthropogenic-based influences. CUS Cultural Savannah CUS1 Mineral Cultural Canopy: includes American basswood • Cultural communities (CU). Savannah (Tilia americana), Manitoba maple • Tree cover > 25 % >35% (S). (Acer negundo), Austrian pine (Pinus nigra), American elm (Ulmus americana), black locust (Robinia pseudo-acacia), Norway spruce (Picea abies), Colorado spruce (Picea pungens) and green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica). Understorey: includes common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), and staghorn sumac. Ground Cover: includes Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), awnless brome, Queen Ann’s lace and wild teasel.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 12

TABLE 2. SUMMARY OF ECOLOGICAL LAND CLASSIFICATION VEGETATION COMMUNITIES ELC Vegetation Type Species Association Community Characteristics Code OTHER* M Manicured grasses Areas where large expanses of and planted shrubs grass/shrubs/trees are maintained and/or trees and/or planted. Includes: Norway maple (Acer platanoides), red maple (Acer rubrum), silver maple (Acer saccharinum), horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Norway spruce, white spruce, Colorado spruce. 2.2.2 Vegetation A total of 71 vascular plant species have been recorded within the study area. Two of these plants could only be identified to genus and are not included in the following calculations. Thirty-nine (56%) plant species identified are native to Ontario and 30 (44%) plant species are considered introduced and non-native to Ontario. A working vascular plant checklist is presented in Appendix B. Definitions of the acronyms and species ranks used in Appendix B are described in Appendix C. 2.2.3 Species at Risk One butternut (Juglans cinerea) was identified within the study area. Butternut is regulated as Endangered under the Ontario Endangered Species Act, 2007. The butternut tree was identified within the vicinity of the 16th Avenue and Woodbine Avenue intersection. A butternut health assessment should be undertaken to determine if the tree is a Category 1-3 tree. Since butternut is regulated as Endangered under the ESA, removal of any Category 2/3 butternut will require approval from the MNRF, and the Minister, where a Permit is required. No plant species considered rare in York (Varga et al. 2000) were observed. One TRCA species of concern (2009), white spruce (Picea glauca), was identified during field investigations. This species was planted and was observed within a manicured area. 2.3 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Field investigations were conducted with the purpose of documenting wildlife and wildlife habitat and to characterize the nature, extent and significance of wildlife usage within the study area. Wildlife investigations were focused within and adjacent to the existing 16th Avenue right-of-way between Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue. Direct observations, calls and tracks were used to record wildlife present within the study area. A summary of survey date(s), tasks and weather is presented in Table 3. Information concerning wildlife species at risk previously recorded within the study area limits was obtained from the Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) and from the MNRF, Aurora District Office in a letter dated June 20, 2016. Data provided by MNRF and TRCA provided element occurrence records for a number of wildlife species, including species at risk.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 13

TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF DATE OF INVENTORY, TASK, WEATHER AND PERSONNEL Date of Inventory Task Weather Personnel Involved May 12, 2016 General wildlife survey Clear, 15°C, calm David Smith (LGL) June 17, 2016 Breeding Bird survey and Clear, 17°C, calm David Smith (LGL) incidental wildlife survey June 28, 2016 Breeding bird survey, Partial cloud cover, 18°C, David Smith (LGL) incidental wildlife surveys calm. and anuran survey July 26, 2016 General wildlife survey Partial cloud cover, 22°C, David Smith (LGL) calm 2.3.1 Wildlife Habitat Wildlife and wildlife habitat was found to be distributed across the entire study area; however, given the highly urbanized nature of the landscape wildlife habitat was generally limited. Watercourse crossings, old field meadow, cultural thicket and cultural savannah habitat types provide the majority of natural heritage features. The urban setting found along the 16th Avenue study area supports minimal natural heritage features and consequently supports a modest assemblage of wildlife species which are generally considered urban or tolerant of anthropogenic features and disturbance.

German Mills Creek, Beaver Creek and the Rouge River cross 16th Avenue within the study area. These watercourses and associated riparian habitats are considered highly disturbed and support limited natural heritage features. Given the highly disturbed nature of the study area, the habitats associated with these watercourses provide the most significant natural heritage features on the local landscape and provide movement opportunity for wildlife across the landscape. Crossing structures associated German Mills Creek and Beaver Creek offer some capacity for wildlife movement; however, their modest size does limit their functionality to convey wildlife. The crossing structure and relative abundance of natural features associated with the Rouge River crossing results in this crossing/structure acting as an important component in permeability of 16th Avenue for wildlife. 2.3.2 Fauna Based on field observations, 26 species of wildlife could be verified in the study area and the majority of these recordings came from mammalian signs or identification (through calls and sightings) of bird species (see Table 4). Data from the TRCA included records for 10 additional wildlife species previously recorded within the study area. Wildlife species identified within the study area are largely tolerant of human disturbance and anthropogenic influences.

Bird Species Breeding bird surveys were conducted on a number of dates during the 2016 breeding bird season to document breeding bird evidence (BBE) and to characterize the nature, extent and significance of breeding bird usage of the habitats within the study area. Breeding bird survey methodology and breeding bird behaviours used as evidence of breeding success were categorized according to the Breeding Bird Atlas five-year surveys organized by Bird Studies Canada (Cadman et al., 2007). Locations of breeding bird point count stations are shown in Figures 4a to 4c.

A total of 19 species of birds were observed in the study area during field investigations. Eight additional bird species have been identified as previously recorded in the study area based on data provided by the TRCA (TRCA 2016). Bird species were recorded across the study area; however, high diversity was noted

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 14

TABLE 4. WILDLIFE SPECIES DOCUMENTED WITHIN THE STUDY AREA BY LGL AND OTHERS Species Status under Legislation/ Source of Species Local Sensitivity Identification Wildlife Scientific Name Common Name Canada Ontario Secondary Legal Status Local LGL1 SARA ESA Source2 Herpetofauna Anaxyrus americanus American Toad L4 * Lithobates clamitans Green Frog L4 * Birds Charadrius vociferus Killdeer MBCA L5 * Actitis macularius Spotted Sandpiper MBCA L4 * Columba livia Rock Dove L5 * Zenaida macroura Mourning Dove MBCA L5 * Tyrannus tyrannus Eastern Kingbird MBCA L5 * Empidonax traillii Willow Flycatcher MBCA L4 * Vireo gilvus Warbling Vireo MBCA L5 * Vireo olivaceus Red-eyed Vireo MBCA INT/L4 * Cyanocitta cristata Blue Jay FWCA(P) L5 * Sayornis phoebe Eastern Phoebe MBCA L4 * Poecile atricapillus Black-capped Chickadee MBCA L5 * SWH/ MBCA * * Sitta carolinensis White-breasted Nuthatch L4 Turdus migratorius American Robin MBCA L5 * Dumetella carolinensis Gray Catbird MBCA L4 * Sturnus vulgaris European Starling L5 * Bombycilla garrulus Cedar Waxwing MBCA L5 * Setophaga ruticilla American Redstart MBCA SWH * Geothlypis trichas Common Yellowthroat MBCA L4 * Spizella passerina Chipping Sparrow MBCA L5 * SWH/ Passerculus sanwichensis Savannah Sparrow MBCA * L4 Melospica melodia Song Sparrow MBCA L5 * Passerina cyanea Indigo Bunting MBCA L4 * Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged Blackbird L5 *

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 15

All acronyms used in this table are defined in Appendix C (Acronyms and Definitions Used in Species Lists).

Legislation Referenced in the Table: SARA – Canada Species at Risk Act ESA – Ontario Endangered Species Act MBCA – Migratory Bird Convention Act FWCA – Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act

Local Ranks: BSC – Bird Studies Canada, Species of Conservation Priority.

Source of Species Identification: 1Species recorded within the study area during detail design field investigations (LGL 2014). 2Species identified as likely to utilize the study area based on an analysis of existing habitat and secondary sources (Sheridan and Coulter 1985). Refer to Appendix C for Acronyms, Definitions used in the Species List

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 16 within the more abundant green spaces at the eastern portion of the study area, in particular natural heritage features associated with the Rouge River valley.

The study area contained a modest number of breeding bird species representing several habitat types. Breeding evidence was obtained for 19 species of birds. Breeding evidence was confirmed for three species, suspected for 11 and possible for five. An additional 14 species were identified as having the potential to breed within the study area. A single active (nest with egg/young) Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe) nest was identified under the Rouge River bridge structure. No other nests were identified on bridge/culvert structures within the study area.

Several bird species at risk were also identified within the datasets described above (see Section 2.3.3 for further details). There are also multiple species that are considered area-sensitive and/or interior species according to the Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (MNR 2000). A number of bird species identified within the study area are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA) and/or the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act (FWCA).

Mammal Species Seven mammal species were identified during field investigations in the study area. The majority of mammal activity was found in association with the Rouge River crossing. Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) and Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) were identified across much of the study area, including roadside trees in highly disturbed areas. The remaining mammal species were typically associated with the Rouge River. The mammal species documented represent an assemblage that readily utilizes human influenced landscapes. Heavily used mammal movement corridors were identified within the natural areas associated with the Rouge River. The Rouge River bridge structure was noted to contain heavily used mammal trails under the structure. Given the relatively large tract of natural area associated with the Rouge River valley this feature is likely to function as a significant wildlife movement corridor. All watercourse crossing structures were utilized by resident mammal species. Comparatively high species diversity and greater overall utilization was noted at the Rouge River Crossing.

Generally, the mammal species expected within the study area represent an assemblage that readily utilizes human influenced landscapes. All mammal species identified within the study area are protected under FWCA. The American Mink (Neovison vison) is considered to be of regional concern by the TRCA; however, their population is secure across the province.

Herpetofauna Species No herpetofauna species were observed in the study area during field investigations. Based on the habitats present, several amphibian and reptile species may be expected to occupy habitats within the study area. Fauna data provided by TRCA (TRCA 2016) shows records of American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus) and Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans) within the study area. Aquatic habitats and adjacent cultural meadow and forested habitats may be expected to function as habitat for herpetofauna species. As described above, aquatic habitats present within the study area have the potential to function as anuran breeding habitat.

Other reptile and amphibian species are expected to be found within the study area; though, an assemblage that is generally considered tolerant of anthropogenic influences is expected to be present within the lands examined. 2.3.3 Species at Risk Of the 34 wildlife species recorded within the study area, none are regulated under the Ontario Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA) and/or the Canada Species at Risk Act. An information request was sent to the MNRF, Aurora District on May 3, 2016 requesting information on species at risk previously identified

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 17 within proximity to the study area. Species at risk data was received from the MNRF, Aurora District Office on June 20, 2016.

MNRF data describes five wildlife species at risk (SAR) which have been previously recorded within the vicinity of the study area including Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna), Eastern Wood Pewee (Contopus virens) and Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina). The Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) database (MNRF 2016) contained records for one rare species, Bobolink, within the vicinity of the study area.

Each of the five SAR species identified above, their respective legal status, biological requirements and the likelihood of presence within the study area is discussed below and summarized in Table 5.

Bobolink

The Bobolink, a species with a broad distribution across southern Ontario, is listed as a species at risk and is regulated as ‘Threatened’ under the Ontario Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA). The Bobolink is listed as ‘Special Concern’ by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), but has no status under the SARA. Bobolinks are typically described as residents of grassland communities with an abundance of grass species that are typical of old fields. Bobolinks are also commonly associated with agricultural lands. Bobolink was not identified during breeding bird surveys conducted in 2016. No habitat suitable to support Bobolink was identified within the study area.

Eastern Meadowlark

The Eastern Meadowlark, a species with a broad distribution across southern Ontario, is regulated as ‘Threatened’ under the ESA. The Eastern Meadowlark is listed as ‘Special Concern’ by COSEWIC, but has no status under the SARA. The Eastern Meadowlark, formerly a prairie species, has adapted to agricultural practices of the European settlers (hayfields, pastures etc.). As farming practices have become more efficient, Eastern Meadowlark numbers have declined. Eastern Meadowlark was not identified during breeding bird surveys conducted in 2016. No habitat suitable to support Eastern Meadowlark was identified within the study area.

Barn Swallow

Barn Swallow is regulated as Threatened under the ESA. The Barn Swallow is listed as ‘Special Concern’ by COSEWIC, but has no status under the SARA. The Barn Swallow generally builds mud nests on bridges, walls, ledges and barns (Cadman et al. 2007). The Barn Swallow typically forages in open areas such as agricultural lands, meadows or water. Barn Swallow was not identified during breeding bird surveys conducted in 2016. Habitats considered suitable for nesting (e.g. bridges, larger culverts or man-made structures) were identified within the study area.

Eastern Wood Pewee

Eastern Wood Pewee is listed as ‘Special Concern’ under the Species at Risk in Ontario List; however, this species is not a regulated species (‘Endangered’ or ‘Threatened’) under the ESA. The Eastern Wood Pewee is listed as ‘Special Concern’ by COSEWIC, but has no status under the SARA. The Eastern Wood Pewee is found in deciduous and mixed forests and in forest openings/clearings/edges. No forested habitats which have the potential to support Eastern Wood Pewee were identified within the study area. No Eastern Wood Pewee were identified during breeding bird surveys conducted in 2016.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 18

TABLE 5.

WILDLIFE SPECIES AT RISK SUMMARY

Last Scientific Common Preferred Potential Habitat in Species Confirmed Location (s) Observed

Name Name ESA Habitat* Study Area in Study Area SARA Date

Open country habitat types identified within the study area were found Open to be too small and Dolichonyx In the vicinity of Bobolink THR - Unknown country/grasslands disturbed to support No oryzivorus the study area. and agricultural. Bobolink. No habitat suitable to support Bobolink was identified within the study area. Open country habitat types identified within the study area were found to be too small and Hirundo Eastern In the vicinity of Open country and disturbed to support THR - Unknown No rustica Meadowlark the study area. agricultural Eastern Meadowlark. No habitat suitable to support Eastern Meadowlark was identified within the study area.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 19

TABLE 5.

WILDLIFE SPECIES AT RISK SUMMARY

Last Scientific Common Preferred Potential Habitat in Species Confirmed Location (s) Observed

Name Name ESA Habitat* Study Area in Study Area SARA Date

Open country and aquatic habitat types identified may provide habitat Open country and suitable to support Hirundo Barn In the vicinity of agricultural; man- THR - Unknown foraging Barn Swallow. No rustica Swallow the study area. man structures for Suitable nesting structure nesting. to support nesting Barn Swallow were identified in the study area. Forested/treed areas Forest species, within the study area are Eastern typically limited in Contopus In the vicinity of Wood SC - Unknown associated with size/distribution. No No virens the study area. Pewee forest openings, habitat suitable to support clearing or edges. this species identified within the study area. Relatively large Forested/treed areas tracts of within the study area are deciduous and limited in Hylocichla Wood In the vicinity of SC - Unknown mixed forests with size/distribution. No No mustelina Thrush the study area. large trees, shade, habitat suitable to support and leaf litter for this species identified foraging. within the study area. *Refer to Appendix C for Acronyms, Definitions used in the Species List

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 20

Wood Thrush

Wood Thrush is listed as ‘Special Concern’ under the Species at Risk in Ontario List; however, this species is not a regulated species (‘Endangered’ or ‘Threatened’) under the ESA. The Wood Thrush is listed as ‘Special Concern’ by COSEWIC, but has no status under the SARA. The Wood Thrush is found in mature deciduous and mixed forests with large trees, shade and leaf litter for foraging. Habitats which have the potential to support Wood Thrush were not identified within the study area and no Wood Thrush were identified during breeding bird surveys conducted in 2016. 2.4 Designated Natural Areas Designated natural areas include areas identified for protection by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF), Toronto Region Conservation Authority, York Region, the Town of Richmond Hill and the City of Markham. A review of the Natural Heritage Information Centre (2014) and agency data, indicates there are no Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSIs), Provincially Significant Wetlands or Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) located within 120 m of the study area. The Town of Richmond Hill Official Plan Schedule A4 identifies German Mills Creek and Beaver Creek as “permanent and intermittent streams” and the City of Markham Official Plan Map 4 identifies the Rouge River as a component of the “natural heritage network.”

3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 16th Avenue is proposed to be widened from four to six lanes (three lanes in each direction) from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue. Cyclists and pedestrians will be accommodated through multi-use paths (MUPs) and sidewalks. Landscaping will be included as feasible within the boulevards.

The existing culverts at the German Mills Creek and Beaver Creek crossings are proposed to be maintained. The existing bridge at the Rouge River is also proposed to be maintained as the proposed cross-section can be optimized to fit within the existing deck structure.

The potential effects of the preferred alternative on fish and fish habitat, vegetation and vegetation communities, wildlife and wildlife habitat, and designated natural areas are discussed in Section 4.0.

4.0 IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 4.1 Aquatic Habitats and Communities Improvements to 16th Avenue between Yonge Street and Woodbine Avenue have the potential to result in impacts to aquatic habitats and communities. Effects on these features related to roadway improvements/modifications could include: • temporary disruption or permanent loss of site-specific habitat; • temporary changes to water quality; • changes in water temperature; and, • barriers to fish passage. As a result of recent changes to the Fisheries Act, DFO has introduced a self-assessment process for proponents to determine if Serious Harm to fish or fish habitat is expected as a result of activities from the project. Previously, all screenings under the Fisheries Act in the TRCA jurisdiction were undertaken by the Conservation Authority in accordance with an agreement with DFO. With the new process, proponents use DFO screening criteria to determine if a review of the project by DFO is required.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 21

There are proposed works resulting in potential habitat impacts at only one of the three watercourse crossings within the project limits (Rouge River). At this site, grading of the road slopes (these road slopes, because they are vegetated, are considered to be part of Redside Dace habitat) to accommodate the multi- use path (north side) and sidewalk (south side) and, for provision of the medians to the east and west of the crossings, is proposed. There are no works proposed for the bridge structure (i.e., no in-water works). The grading at the Rouge River meets the self-assessment criteria for no serious harm to fish or fish habitat. Further details regarding works, net environmental effects and site-specific mitigation proposed at the crossing can be found in the sections below. 4.1.1 Temporary Disruption or Permanent Loss of Site-Specific Habitat The grading works at the Rouge River has the potential to result in the permanent loss of localized Redside Dace habitat, as defined by the MNRF. In order to minimize the potential for serious harm, the slope work will be minimized to the smallest footprint possible and will not affect water flow or fish passage at all. Mitigation to ensure minimal disturbance to the habitat is summarized below.

To reduce the potential for serious harm to fish habitat, the following environmental protection measures will be implemented: • because of Redside Dace habitat within the study area, work within riparian habitat should permitted from July 1 to September 15 at the Rouge River crossing (to be confirmed by MNRF and TRCA during detail design); • work areas will be delineated with construction fencing to minimize the area of disturbance; • appropriate sediment control structures will be installed prior to and maintained during construction to prevent entry of sediments into the watercourse; • good housekeeping practices related to materials storage/stockpiling, equipment fuelling/ maintenance, etc. will be implemented during construction; and, • disturbed riparian areas will be vegetated and/or covered with an erosion control blanket as quickly as possible to stabilize the banks and minimize the potential for erosion and sedimentation.

These environmental protection measures will greatly reduce the potential adverse effects to fish and fish habitat resulting from construction activities. 4.1.2 Temporary Change to Water Quality The construction associated with the proposed works has the potential to alter water quality through on-site erosion of exposed materials and the subsequent impairment of downstream water quality with sediments and other contaminants.

Changes to water quality will be mitigated through the deployment and maintenance of erosion and sediment controls (silt fencing, flow checks, etc.) which will prevent sediments from reaching the watercourses from exposed soils upslope. To improve storm water quality, roadway runoff should be directed to existing storm water management (SWM) facilities where technically feasible and sufficient permanent pool volume is available within the SWM facility. Oil grit separators should also be installed to treat water prior to it entering the watercourse. In addition, all exposed areas should be vegetated as quickly as possible once the work is completed.

The implementation of these mitigation measures should eliminate potential changes to water quality to the receiving watercourses.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 22

4.1.3 Changes in Water Temperature The thermal regime of a receiving watercourse may be altered by storm water runoff or removal of riparian vegetation that shades the watercourse. In the summer, runoff can become superheated through contact with paved surfaces, which, when discharged to a receiving watercourse, can result in thermal shock, thereby injuring or killing aquatic organisms. Coldwater or coolwater streams are usually considered more sensitive to changes in water temperature than warmwater streams.

It is expected that there will be no significant increase in temperature as a result of the proposed works as long as appropriate storm water management strategies are implemented. 4.1.4 Barriers to Fish Passage No barriers to fish passage will result from this project. 4.1.5 Restoration/Enhancement The riparian areas at the Rouge River crossing may be affected by the slope works. Restoration, enhancement and/or compensation will focus on this main area of impact.

The goal of the restoration/enhancement plan is to provide an overall benefit to the watercourse at these locations through restoration of riparian habitat. Restoration of disturbed riparian areas associated with slope works should focus on the replacement and enhancement of the riparian vegetation that will be affected by the proposed works. These restoration and enhancement works will provide a buffer between the roadway and the watercourse, increase the diversity of habitat in relation to what is present, and provide floodplain connectivity. 4.2 Vegetation and Vegetation Communities Improvements to 16th Avenue between Yonge Street and Woodbine Avenue have the potential to result in impacts to vegetation and vegetation communities. Effects on vegetation related to these modifications could include: • displacement of / disturbance to vegetation and vegetation communities; and, • displacement of rare, threatened or endangered vegetation or significant vegetation communities. 4.2.1 Displacement and/or Disturbance to Vegetation Communities/Vegetation Clearing of vegetation will be required to accommodate the proposed improvements to 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue. The improvements to 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue will result in the removal of approximately 7.25 ha of naturalized and/or planted areas. The largest area of impact will be to lands that have been anthropogenically influenced including manicured areas. A total of approximately 6.39 ha of anthropogenically influenced lands will be removed as a result of the proposed improvements. In addition, a total of approximately 0.86 ha of cultural vegetation communities will be removed. Table 6 provides a summary of the approximate total area of vegetation communities that will be removed for the improvements to 16th Avenue in study area A, refinements to these numbers should be undertaken during the detail design phase when the project design is finalized.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 23

TABLE 6. IMPACTS TO VEGETATION COMMUNITIES WITHIN THE STUDY AREA Approximate Vegetation Vegetation Community Total Area (ha) to Community Type be Impacted Dry-Moist Old Field Meadow (CUM1-1) 0.75 Sumac Cultural Thicket (CUT1-1) 0.02 Cultural Mineral Cultural Savannah (CUS1) 0.09 Sub-total 0.86 Anthropogenically Manicured 6.39 Influenced Lands Sub-total 6.39 Total Area 7.25

Cultural Vegetation Communities Improvements to 16th Avenue between Yonge Street and Woodbine Avenue will result in the removal of approximately 0.75 ha and 0.08 ha of Dry-Moist Old Field Meadow and Mineral Cultural Savannah, respectively. In addition, approximately 0.02 ha of Sumac Cultural Thicket has also been identified for removal. Overall, impacts resulting in the loss of vegetation within these cultural communities are considered to be minor. Cultural vegetation communities typically persist in areas that are regularly disturbed, and as a result, generally contain a high proportion of invasive and non-native plant species that are tolerant of these conditions.

It is expected that plant species displaced and/or disturbed within the cultural vegetation communities due to the road improvements will re-colonize available lands adjacent to the new right-of-way post- construction. Disturbance activities often serve to promote the establishment and / or spread of certain plant species (including the disturbance-tolerant species identified within the existing right-of-way).

Anthropogenically Influenced Lands As noted in Table 6, a total of approximately 6.39 ha of manicured lands will be removed as a result of the proposed improvements to 16th Avenue. The overall significance of the impact to these lands is considered low. 4.2.2 Displacement of Rare, Threatened or Endangered Vegetation or Significant Vegetation All of the vegetation communities identified within the study area are considered to be widespread and common in Ontario and secure globally. As a result, there will be no impacts on rare, threatened or endangered vegetation communities.

As noted in Section 2.2.3, one butternut was identified within the study area during LGL’s botanical investigation. Based on the preliminary design grading limits the butternut will need to be removed as a result of the proposed improvements to 16th Avenue. An in season Butternut Health Assessment should be conducted to determine if the tree is a Category 1, 2 or 3. A permit under the Ontario Endangered Species at Risk Act will be required if it is determined the butternut is a Category 3.

In addition, one TRCA species of concern (white spruce) was identified within the study area. The white spruce trees were planted as amenity features and are not naturally occurring; as a result, they should not be considered significant within the study area.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 24

4.3 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Modifications to 16th Avenue have the potential to result in the displacement of and disturbance to wildlife and wildlife habitat.

Effects on wildlife related to these modifications may include: • displacement of wildlife and wildlife habitat; • barrier effects on wildlife passage; • wildlife/vehicle conflicts; • disturbance to wildlife from noise, light and visual intrusion; • potential impacts to migratory birds; and, • displacement of rare, threatened or endangered wildlife and significant wildlife habitat. 4.3.1 Displacement of Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Modification and widening of 16th Avenue will take place within and beyond the existing right-of-way. Much of the right-of-way and lands immediately adjacent consist of highly disturbed, low quality wildlife habitat, with higher quality habitats generally restricted to valleylands associated with watercourse crossings. These valleylands support riparian areas consisting of natural or semi-natural vegetation communities and are expected to contribute to the wildlife assemblage identified within the lands examined.

Only minimal infringement to the edge of the above-mentioned natural heritage features will occur as a result of road modification and widening of 16th Avenue. Modification and widening of 16th Avenue within and beyond the right-of-way is not expected to have any significant impact on wildlife and/or wildlife habitat. Displacement of species at risk habitat is not anticipated (see Section 4.3.6).

The proposed activities at this site should occur outside of the breeding bird window (see Section 4.3.5), to minimize disturbance to birds and other wildlife species utilizing habitats within the study area.

An analysis of vegetation removal per vegetation (wildlife habitat) community is presented in Section 4.2 (above). 4.3.2 Barrier Effects on Wildlife Passage No new permanent migratory barriers to wildlife will be created as a result of the proposed road modifications. The existing barrier posed by the current 16th Avenue right-of-way will be greater due to proposed widening. Given the disturbed nature of the lands found within the study area, the modifications are not expected to have a significant impact on wildlife passage. However, where natural areas are found abutting, and in particular, on opposite sides of 16th Avenue (e.g., valleylands at the two culvert crossings of German Mills Creek and Beaver Creek) a more significant barrier effect on wildlife movement across 16th Avenue can be anticipated. Wildlife passage under the bridge at the Rouge River will remain unchanged. 4.3.3 Wildlife/Vehicle Conflicts The proposed road modifications and widening will increase the width of the travelled surface resulting in an increased risk of mortality for wildlife that elects to cross the roads. The existing 16th Avenue right-of- way poses a potential barrier to wildlife movement. While the increase in width of road increases exposure of wildlife to vehicle conflicts, the potential increase in wildlife mortality above existing conditions is considered minor. However, where natural areas are found abutting, and in particular, on opposite sides of 16th Avenue (e.g., valleylands at watercourse crossings) an increase in wildlife/vehicle conflicts may be expected. Construction duration and disturbance in the vicinity of the culverts and bridge should be

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 25 minimized to the extent possible to reduce the potential for increase in road mortality caused by wildlife avoidance of these structures. 4.3.4 Disturbance to Wildlife from Noise, Light and Visual Intrusion Noise, light and visual intrusion may alter wildlife activities and patterns. In human-influenced settings, such as the study area, wildlife has become acclimatized to anthropogenic conditions and only those fauna that are tolerant of human activities remain. Minor edge effect to natural areas (e.g., valleylands at the watercourse crossings) may occur as road widening will result in an increase in noise, light, and visual intrusion. Given that wildlife is acclimatized to the presence of the existing 16th Avenue right-of-way in the study area, the tolerance of the wildlife assemblage to human activities and the limited zone of influence of the proposed widening, disturbance to wildlife from noise, light and visual intrusion will have no significant adverse effects. 4.3.5 Potential Impacts to Migratory Birds As identified above (Section 2.3.2), numerous bird species listed under the Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA) were identified within the study area. One nest of a migratory birds was present under the Rouge River bridge, but no others were identified within the culverts or other structure within the study area. The MBCA prohibits the killing, capturing, injuring, taking or disturbing of migratory birds (including eggs) or the damaging, destroying, removing or disturbing of nests. While migratory insectivorous and non-game birds are protected year-round, migratory game birds are only protected from March 10 to September 1. The study area lands fall within Environment Canada’s Nesting Zone C2 (Nesting Period: end of March – end of August). Consequently, to comply with the requirements of the MBCA, it is recommended that disturbance, clearing or disruption of vegetation where birds may be nesting should be completed outside the window of April 1 to August 31 to avoid the breeding bird season for the majority of the bird species protected under the Act. In the event that these activities must be undertaken from April 1 to August 31, a nest screening survey will be conducted by a qualified avian biologist. If an active nest is located, a mitigation plan shall be developed and provided to Environment Canada – Ontario Region for review prior to implementation. York Region uses a breeding bird timing window of May 1 to July 31 and employs a policy of a nest survey inspection by a qualified avian biologist prior to the onset of all activities that could disturb nesting birds to ensure no harm to birds and their nests. This will also ensure compliance with the MBCA. 4.3.6 Displacement of Rare, Threatened or Endangered Wildlife or Significant Wildlife Habitat Background data provided by the MNRF, Aurora District detailed five species at risk that have been previously identified as present within the vicinity of the 16th Avenue study area (discussed in Section 2.3.3). None of these species were observed during the field investigations conducted for this project and their habitat is not found within the study area. Therefore, there will be no effects on species at risk or species at risk habitat as a result of this project. 4.4 Designated Natural Areas As noted in Section 2.4, there are no Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSIs), Provincially Significant Wetlands (PWSs), or Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) located within 120 m of the study area.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report Page 26

5.0 PERMITS AND APPROVALS DURING DETAIL DESIGN 5.1 Fisheries Act As discussed above in Section 4.1, the proposed works around the Rouge River crossing (the only watercourse crossing where near-water works are proposed) meets the criteria for DFO screening of no serious harm. Therefore, this project will not require a review by DFO unless design changes to the watercourse crossings are proposed. 5.2 Endangered Species Act An Information Gathering Form regarding Redside Dace and butternut has been submitted to the MNRF to determine permit requirements under the Ontario Endangered Species Act that will be required during detail design. MNRF’s response regarding Redside Dace indicates that a permit will likely be necessary (along with the prerequisite Avoidance Alternatives Form) during detail design if retaining walls are not used at the Rouge River crossing. If retaining walls are used, habitat disturbance can be avoided or minimized and a permit may not be required. For butternut, butternut health assessment should be undertaken to determine if the tree is a Category 1-3 tree during detail design (as stated in Section 2.2.3). Since butternut is regulated as Endangered under the ESA, removal of any Category 2/3 butternut will require approval from the MNRF (Category 2), and the Minister, where a Permit is required for a Category 3 tree. If it is determined through these steps discussed above for these two species that a permit is required, the permit(s) will be secured during detail design. 5.3 TRCA Regulation 166/06 Based on a review of TRCA mapping, all watercourses located within the study area are subject to Ontario Regulation 166/06 TRCA Regulation of Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses. A permit from the TRCA, pursuant to O. Reg. 166/06, will be secured during detail design.

LGL LIMITED Improvements to 16th Avenue – Yonge Street to Woodbine Avenue Natural Heritage Report – Existing Conditions Page 27

6.0 REFERENCES

Department of Fisheries and Oceans. 2015. Distribution of Fish Species at Risk Mapping Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. LGL Limited. 2007. Natural Sciences Report- Existing Conditions. 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to McCowan Road Schedule ‘C’ Class Environmental Assessment. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2016. Natural Heritage Information Centre. Website available online at: https://www.ontario.ca/environment-and-energy/natural-heritage-information-centre. Accessed May 2016, Ministry of Natural Resources. Peterborough, Ontario. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. 2016. Personal Correspondence with Megan Eplett via email dated June 20, 2016. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. 2009. Don River Watershed Plan. Aquatic System- Report on Current Conditions. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Ministry of Natural Resources. 2010. Draft Rouge River Watershed Fisheries Management Plan.

LGL LIMITED