TOWARDS A HEALTHY WATERSHED CONSERVATION HALTON 2009 – 2013 STRATEGIC PLAN

FOREWORD

Conservation Halton’s Strategic Plan, Towards a Healthy Watershed, will guide the environmental protection efforts to ensure that the watershed’s health will be maintained or enhanced while meeting the current and future needs of local communities.

So what is a strategic plan? For Conservation Halton, a strategic plan identifies both current and long-term priorities for the organization. It also tells watershed residents, municipal partners and all other stakeholders what the organization’s Board of Directors and staff thinks is important.

The plan is divided into five main themes – environment, parks, education, community and governance – reflecting the mandate and activities of Conservation Halton. Grouped within each of the five themes are a series of objectives, the strategic directions identified by the board and staff, and action items.

Each of the departments within Conservation Halton will develop work plans and success measures to ensure the Strategic Plan is an action document. Staff will deliver annual updates and progress reports on their work plans to the Board. Regular publications such as the Accountability Report will also communicate information related to the objectives and action items in the Strategic Plan.

The success of the Strategic Plan will ultimately depend on the ability of the organization to involve, engage and motivate the community. Conservation Halton is committed to working in partnership with its municipal partners, community organizations and residents to achieve the objectives and action items identified to protect and manage the natural environment in the watershed.

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 1 ABOUT CONSERVATION HALTON

Conservation Halton is the community based environmental agency that protects, restores and manages the natural resources in its watershed. As an agency established under the Conservation Authorities Act of Ontario, Conservation Halton forms a partnership with the Province of Ontario and the Regional Municipalities of Halton and Peel, the City of Hamilton, and Puslinch Township.

The agency is recognized for its stewardship of creeks, forests and Niagara Escarpment lands through science based services and sustainable recreation programs. Conservation Halton’s mandate includes, but is not limited to, environmental protection, water resources management, forest resources management and lifelong education and recreation. Its key roles are:

Water Resources Management - Conservation Halton manages water resources using integrated, ecologically sound environmental practices to maintain secure supplies of clean water, to protect communities from flooding and to ensure that environmental planning is an integral part of community development.

Forest Resources Management - Conservation Halton manages a large forest resource using sound sustainable forest management practices involving silviculture and wildlife habitat improvements which contribute to the health of the watershed’s natural environment.

Lifelong Education and Recreation - Conservation Halton creates educational and recreational experiences in natural environments that enrich the lives of people of all ages by instilling awareness and appreciation of the watershed’s natural heritage.

Conservation Halton owns and operates six conservation areas namely Crawford Lake, Mountsberg, Rattlesnake Point, Hilton Falls, Kelso and Mount Nemo. It also operates the Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Centre.

Conservation Halton is guided by a Board of Directors comprised of municipally elected councillors and appointed citizens. The staff includes ecologists, land use planners, engineers, foresters, recreation planners and educators who are assisted by a network of volunteers.

Conservation Halton’s watershed is one of the most beautiful and diverse places in Ontario. Our watershed includes the world-renowned Niagara Escarpment, the Lake Ontario shoreline, Carolinian forests, creeks, valleys and rich wetlands. From archaeological sites and a rare glacial lake to the ancient cedars that cling to escarpment cliffs, the conservation lands in the watershed are a significant natural heritage that needs to be protected for future generations to enjoy.

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 2 Themes & Objectives

THEME 1: ENVIRONMENT 1.1 Create and implement programs to sustain a healthy watershed 1.2 Develop, enhance and sustain a natural heritage system for the watershed 1.3 Protect sources of public drinking water through source protection programs 1.4 Grow, maintain and manage healthy forests and green spaces in the watershed 1.5 Deliver watershed management programs and services to ensure the protection of life and property from natural hazards 1.6 Integrate environmental planning with community growth based on an environment-first approach 1.7 Foster strong relationships with partner municipalities, other orders of government, non-government organizations, and private organizations 1.8 Provide leadership in preparing for the potential impacts of climate change on the watershed 1.9 Continue leadership of the Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan (HHRAP)

THEME 2: PARKS 2.1 Build awareness of Conservation Halton parks as regional destinations 2.2 Promote healthy lifestyles by providing access to green spaces for quality year- round recreation experiences 2.3 Significantly enhance the amenities at Conservation Halton’s parks to ensure an enjoyable experience for visitors 2.4 Demonstrate leadership in environmental management of Conservation Halton properties

THEME 3: EDUCATION 3.1 Deliver innovative and curriculum linked experiential education programs 3.2 Offer outdoor education and interpretive programs that promote lifelong learning experiences 3.3 Deliver strong community stewardship programs to promote watershed health

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 3 3.4 Create awareness of climate change and water conservation within the watershed community and encourage social change among watershed residents

THEME 4: COMMUNITY 4.1 Communicate with and engage stakeholders in a clear, concise and timely manner 4.2 Increase awareness of Conservation Halton’s programs, services, value to the community and environmental initiatives through developing and implementing a communications strategy 4.3 Offer a variety of volunteer and community engagement opportunities to enhance the natural environment in the watershed

THEME 5: GOVERNANCE 5.1 Build financial stability and maintain administrative excellence 5.2 Provide professional and safe work environments for Conservation Halton staff 5.3 Provide quality full-time, seasonal and part-time employment to enhance economic activity in the watershed 5.4 Ensure effective governance through the Board of Directors 5.5 Advocate with other levels of government and government organizations to ensure sustained financial and legislative support for Conservation Authorities to help protect and enhance the local environment 5.6 Encourage and support fundraising programs of the Conservation Halton Foundation

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 4 Conservation Halton 2009-2013 Strategic Plan Themes, Objectives, Action Items

THEME 1: ENVIRONMENT

1.1 Create and implement programs to sustain a healthy watershed.

Action Items 1.1.1 Monitor and report on the health of the watershed through the implementation of the Long Term Environmental Monitoring Program (LEMP) 1.1.2 Develop fisheries management plans for the watershed 1.1.3 Identify species and habitats at risk along with protection strategies 1.1.4 Develop and implement restoration strategies for special habitats such as prairie and dune communities 1.1.4 Develop a strategy to identify, control and monitor invasive species 1.1.6 Continue with the implementation of recommendations from Watershed plans developed for the Grindstone, Bronte and North shore watersheds 1.1.5 Continue Conservation Halton’s role as the lead agency in maintaining information on local natural heritage resources within the watershed 1.1.6 Develop an information management strategy to centrally manage, monitor and analyze watershed related information

1.2 Develop, enhance and sustain a natural heritage system for the watershed.

Action Items 1.2.1 Develop a coordinated approach for a natural heritage system with watershed partners 1.2.2 Implement programs that promote biodiversity enhancements as part of a natural heritage system 1.2.3 Continue to develop and manage a land acquisition program for lands with natural heritage and natural hazards features

1.3 Protect sources of public drinking water through source protection programs.

Action Items 1.3.1 Assist the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Committee in meeting their three (3) key deliverables, namely, terms of reference, assessment reports, and source protection plans 1.3.2 Develop a long-term Source Water Protection Action Program within the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Region 1.3.3 Create a communications plan that builds upon provincial messaging and provides a local focus on source water protection issues and solutions within the Halton-Hamilton Source Protection Region

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 5 1.4 Grow, maintain and manage healthy forests and green spaces in the watershed.

Action Items 1.4.1 Develop a watershed reforestation plan with forest cover targets, restoration objectives, and a tree planting strategy that is coordinated with watershed municipalities and other stakeholders 1.4.2 Maintain a conservation services program to assist private landowners with naturalizing retired agricultural lands and environmentally degraded lands in the watershed 1.4.3 Establish a subsidy program to assist private landowners with the cost of planting various species of native trees and shrubs 1.4.4 Conduct forest management on Conservation Halton lands including programs for monitoring invasive species and their impacts on forest health

1.5 Deliver watershed management programs and services to ensure the protection of life and property from natural hazards.

Action Items 1.5.1 Implement a comprehensive plan review program for the protection of the public from natural hazards in dealing with future development 1.5.2 Administer and enforce Ontario Regulation 162/06 to ensure the protection of life and property from natural hazards 1.5.3 Maintain and upgrade Conservation Halton flood and erosion control infrastructure (dams and channels) 1.5.4 Provide comprehensive and timely flood forecast and warning information to emergency responders 1.5.5 Complete and maintain flood and erosion hazard mapping updates for all watersheds

1.6 Integrate environmental planning with community growth based on an environment-first approach.

Action Items 1.6.1 Implement a comprehensive plan review program to ensure the protection and enhancement of natural heritage systems 1.6.2 Update and implement watershed plans for Grindstone, Bronte, Sixteen Mile Creek, and North Shore watersheds 1.6.3 Support municipalities in the development and implementation of watershed and sub-watershed plans 1.6.4 Promote an environment-first approach in Provincial Plans such as the Niagara Escarpment and Greenbelt Plans; Municipal Official Plans and Zoning Bylaws through plan input

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 6 1.7 Foster strong relationships with partner municipalities, other orders of government, non-government organizations, and private organizations.

Action Items 1.7.1 Identify and develop partnership opportunities and common goals, messaging, and policies related to environmental and watershed management projects and programs 1.7.2 Encourage and develop cooperation on cross-watershed or multi- jurisdictional projects 1.7.3 Build strong relationships with other Conservation Authorities to address common issues and interests 1.7.4 Continue to strengthen and explore new partnership and funding opportunities with watershed municipalities in all areas, including but not limited to park programs, outreach events, watershed management services

1.8 Provide leadership in preparing for the potential impacts of climate change on the watershed.

Action Items 1.8.1 Assess the potential impacts of climate change on the watershed by capitalizing on current scientific research 1.8.2 Enhance current outreach, education and communications programs to raise awareness of climate change in the watershed communities and the global environment 1.8.3 Prepare for the potential impacts of climate change on the occurrence of natural hazards within the watershed and update current flood and erosion hazard programs as necessary 1.8.4 Provide leadership in assisting our municipal partners in planning to incorporate climate change preparedness in dealing with natural hazards, natural heritage, and water supply

1.9 Continue Leadership of the Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan (HHRAP).

Action Items 1.9.1 Continue to provide secretariat services for the Remedial Action Plan through an existing partnership agreement with Environment Canada and Ontario Ministry of the Environment 1.9.2 Oversee implementation actions through the Bay Area Implementation Team in accordance with their 2006-2011 work plan and develop a work plan for 2011-2015 1.9.3 Continue to provide management of the Fish and Wildlife Habitat Restoration Project

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 7 THEME 2: PARKS

2.1 Build awareness of Conservation Halton parks as regional destinations

Action Items 2.1.1 Establish Conservation Halton parks as part of a recognized regional parks system in association with our member municipalities 2.1.2 Promote Niagara Escarpment parks as part of a network of parks within the Niagara Escarpment Parks and Open Space System 2.1.3 Promote parks on the Niagara Escarpment as being part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve 2.1.4 Undertake marketing and communications initiatives to promote Conservation Halton parks to the public in terms of recreation, tourism, and economic factors 2.1.5 Market Conservation Halton parks through a centralized strategic marketing process

2.2 Promote healthy lifestyles by providing access to green spaces for quality year-round recreation experiences. Action Items 2.2.1 Develop and implement a watershed trails strategy on Conservation Halton lands in relation to other public and municipal trails and work in partnership with trail organizations such as the Bruce Trail Conservancy 2.2.2 Involve stakeholders in trail upgrades, re-routing and development based on a new five year cycle 2.2.3 Offer educational programs and interpretive signage to raise awareness and appreciation of the natural, cultural and heritage features on Conservation Halton lands 2.2.4 Monitor population trends and demographics in the watershed to ensure community needs are being met from a recreational programming perspective 2.2.5 Prepare annual service plans for each conservation area 2.2.6 Coordinate the promotion and planning of recreational programs at Conservation Halton parks 2.2.7 Ensure the parks are accessible by reducing physical, financial and social barriers 2.2.8 Acquire software systems to improve client relationship management and streamline park administration processes 2.2.9 Assess programs and services annually to ensure that they meet identified strategic priorities and visitors’ needs

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 8 2.3 Significantly enhance the amenities at Conservation Halton’s parks to ensure an enjoyable experience for visitors.

Action Items

2.3.1 Complete new Master Plans for all parks 2.3.2 Develop the Master Plans for parks on the Niagara Escarpment in accordance with the policies and objectives of the Niagara Escarpment Plan 2.3.2 Undertake a study on the accumulated deferred capital maintenance costs of all Conservation Halton infrastructure and facilities 2.3.3 Identify capital infrastructure needs and prioritize a five year investment plan 2.3.4 Identify partners to support a significantly enhanced and sustainable funding model for capital infrastructure 2.3.5 Develop a consistent visual identity and look for park entrances and buildings including gatehouses, signage, washrooms, pavilions, landscaping and trail maps 2.3.6 Standardize maintenance schedules and plans for all parks 2.3.7 Undertake an economic and environmental benefit analysis of the Conservation Halton parks system

2.4 Demonstrate leadership in environmental management of Conservation Halton properties.

Action Items 2.4.1 Develop and implement environmental sustainability strategies for Conservation Halton lands based on up-to-date ecological information and inventory 2.4.2 Undertake ecological monitoring and research programs on Conservation Halton properties in order to assess the health of the natural heritage systems 2.4.3 Implement the Visitor Impact Systems approach to monitor and mitigate the potential impacts of visitor use on the ecological health of Conservation Halton lands 2.4.4 Develop and implement a strategy to protect species and habitats at risk 2.4.5 Investigate opportunities for environmental best-management practices and conservation measures at all Conservation Halton properties and facilities 2.4.6 Utilize cost effective operations and maintenance options that have significant environmental benefits 2.4.7 Support sustainable planning practices in developing recreational programming on Conservation Halton lands 2.4.8 Encourage park users to be good environmental stewards 2.4.9 Implement a sustainable slopes program to guide appropriate environmental practices related to ski hill operations

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 9 THEME 3: EDUCATION

3.1 Deliver innovative and curriculum linked experiential educational programs.

Action Items 3.1.1 Regularly review and adapt educational activities to meet curriculum needs 3.1.2 Build on existing relationships with school boards in the watershed and examine program opportunities 3.1.3 Continue to monitor for new program opportunities that reflect emerging trends and activities 3.1.4 Continue to deliver seasonal special events to meet the needs of individuals, students, seniors and families

3.2 Offer outdoor education and interpretive programs that promote lifelong learning experience.

Action Items 3.2.1 Promote winter recreation and healthy lifestyle choices by offering learning programs for school groups and other visitors at the Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Centre 3.2.2 Offer recreation programs for children, adults and seniors that showcase the natural and cultural heritage of the Halton watershed and the Niagara Escarpment 3.2.3 Provide park visitors with opportunities to explore and learn about the watershed’s unique ecosystems and their preservation through hands on experiences, interpretive signage, publications and special events 3.2.4 Continue to offer traditional outdoor summer day camps for youth 3.2.5 Undertake stakeholder and visitor surveys to identify needs and measure effectiveness of education and outreach efforts

3.3 Deliver strong community stewardship programs to promote watershed health.

Action Items 3.3.1 Continue to deliver and promote the Hamilton-Halton Watershed Stewardship Program involving land owner contact, education, restoration, and protection of natural features 3.3.2 Develop “Friends of …” programs to assist community groups to protect specific areas or features

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 10

3.4 Create awareness of climate change and water conservation within the watershed community and encourage social change among watershed residents.

Action Items 3.4.1 Create print and electronic resources for students to learn more about watershed conservation and introduce them to Conservation Halton’s conservation and environmental programs 3.4.2 Continue to offer the Halton Children’s Water Festival in partnership with Halton Region and other municipal and community partners 3.4.3 Offer outreach programs and hold volunteer events that have a call to action and offer simple and realistic solutions 3.4.4 Leverage existing environmental education programs to promote awareness of local and regional environmental issues 3.4.5 Use outdoor settings and park facilities to create awareness of climate change and water conservation

THEME 4: COMMUNITY

4.1 Communicate and engage stakeholders in a clear, concise and timely manner.

Action Items 4.1.1 Continue to produce innovative, graphically superior, plain language, printed and web-based communications materials highlighting Conservation Halton programs and services 4.1.2 Engage watershed communities through communications and outreach programs that draw attention to Conservation Halton’s environment-first approach for planning community growth and watershed stewardship 4.1.3 Continue to make use of, and upgrade the Conservation Halton, Glen Eden, and Halton Hikes websites as major sources of information on Conservation Halton services, programs, and initiatives 4.1.4 Produce regular electronic newsletters for watershed councillors, MPs, MPPs and municipal partners, stakeholders, park visitors, media, volunteers and subscribers, providing updates on special events and programs 4.1.5 Maintain a media relations protocol and develop a crisis communications protocol to ensure consistent, efficient and accurate two-way communication with the media 4.1.6 Develop advocacy strategies that include clear positions on environmental issues and effective ways of communicating them

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 11 4.2 Increase awareness of Conservation Halton’s programs, services, value to the community and environmental initiatives through developing and implementing a communications strategy.

Action Items 4.2.1 Position Conservation Halton as the lead agency in the watershed for expert information on watershed management and environmental issues, programs and news 4.2.2 Develop a communications plan to keep season pass holders and volunteers engaged and informed about Conservation Halton’s programs, services, and special events 4.2.3 Conduct a government relations program based on best practices for building strong relationships 4.2.4 Conduct market research and investigate new opportunities to raise awareness of Conservation Halton’s programs and services among community groups, business organizations, municipal partners, and park visitors 4.2.5 Continue to update and implement actions from Conservation Halton’s Communications, Community Outreach, Volunteer and Government Relations Plans

4.3 Offer a variety of volunteer and community engagement opportunities to enhance the natural environment in the watershed.

Action Items 4.3.1 Develop a strategy for volunteer programs that contribute to watershed health and the parks 4.3.2 Continue to stage annual events offering community volunteers an opportunity to participate in environmental initiatives 4.3.3 Develop partnerships with community groups and local municipalities to offer volunteer and outreach programs 4.3.4 Continue to promote and deliver youth environmental education programs in partnership with Halton Region, local municipalities, Halton District School Board and Halton Catholic District School Board 4.3.5 Revise Conservation Halton’s community outreach strategy to reflect the latest trends in social marketing, community engagement and emerging web applications 4.3.6 Engage volunteers to participate in interpretive programs, trail building and tree planting and recognize their contribution in an appropriate manner

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 12 THEME 5: GOVERNANCE

5.1 Build financial stability and maintain administrative excellence.

Action Items 5.1.1 Continue to develop and implement a funding formula and a ten year financial model for Conservation Halton (including budget principles) 5.1.2 Use previously developed budget protocols to apply the model 5.1.3 Develop new partnerships with all orders of government, corporations, and funding organizations to support financial stability 5.1.4 Ensure administrative excellence through new and affordable innovative technologies by applying for grants, targeting new purchases as part of Conservation Halton Foundation efforts, and developing joint efforts with Halton Region, local municipalities, Ministry of Natural Resources and Fisheries and Oceans Canada 5.1.5 Offer innovative business management tools to increase process and staff efficiencies 5.1.6 Continue to update information technology resources to enable Conservation Halton staff to remain competitive, efficient, and on the leading edge of affordable business solutions 5.1.7 Introduce a corporate-wide web-based Enterprise GIS solution to provide staff access to GIS data, analysis and mapping 5.1.8 Periodically review all customer service policies and procedures

5.2 Provide professional and safe work environments for Conservation Halton staff.

Action Items 5.2.1 Develop and implement a comprehensive human resources plan to help maintain superior health and safety standards, optimal operating procedures and positive staff morale 5.2.2 Continue to improve health and safety procedures and policies 5.2.3 Expand the resources available for professional development 5.2.4 Periodically review all Conservation Halton policies and ensure that staff has access to up-to-date policy, procedure, and operations manuals 5.2.5 Promote free and regular flow of information between divisions regarding new initiatives, directions, policies, successes and projects through director/manager meetings, and division meetings

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 13 5.3 Provide quality full-time, seasonal, and part-time employment, to enhance economic activity in the watershed.

Action Items 5.3.1 Position Conservation Halton and Glen Eden as an employer of choice offering year round and seasonal opportunities 5.3.2 Provide professional training opportunities to build job ready individuals in customer service, skilled labour, and food services 5.3.3 Sponsor or hold job fairs to attract local youth to employment opportunities at Conservation Halton parks 5.3.4 Work with municipal partners to improve public transportation to Conservation Halton parks to maximize employment opportunities and access for visitors

5.4 Ensure effective governance through the Board of Directors

Action Items 5.4.1 Implement recommendations developed as a result of the Board effectiveness survey 5.4.2 Define an advocacy role and plan for the Board 5.4.3 Provide opportunities for informal meetings and information sharing among members of the Board 5.4.4 Develop periodic summary packages of key information for members of the Board

5.5 Advocate with other levels of government and government organizations to ensure sustained financial and legislative support for Conservation Authorities to help protect and enhance the local environment.

Action Items 5.5.1 Participate in and contribute to intergovernmental symposiums, advisory committees and expert panels on environmental planning, climate change and green space issues 5.5.2 Continue participation in Conservation Ontario standing committees on education, insurance, health and safety and watershed management, and provide leadership for lobby efforts with the Province of Ontario 5.5.3 Participate in municipal and regional government strategic planning initiatives 5.5.4 Lobby for eligibility to apply for existing and future local, provincial and federal infrastructure funding programs

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 14 5.6 Encourage and support fundraising programs of the Conservation Halton Foundation.

Action Items 5.6.1 Assist Conservation Halton Foundation with staff resources 5.6.2 Continuously explore and indentify capital and operating projects that may benefit from funding by the Foundation 5.6.3 Assist the Foundation in developing long and short-term fundraising strategies and targets 5.6.4 Assist the Foundation in recruiting directors to reach a full Board complement

Conservation Halton Strategic Plan - Towards a Healthy Watershed February 20, 2009, Page 15