HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-19_Minutes_RWA_2019-09-11Toronto and Region
Conservation
Authority
Regional Watershed Alliance Meeting #3/19 was held at Head Office, 101 Exchange
Avenue, Vaughan, on Wednesday, September 11, 2019. The Vice Chair Jennifer Drake,
called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
PRESENT
Drake, Jennifer
Vice -Chair (Appointed Acting Chair)
Barrett, Suzanne
Member
Bream, Margaret
Member
Broadbent, Heather
Member
Deawuo, Leticia
Member
Dies, Joanne
Member
Heath, Jack
Member
lacobelli, Tony
Member
Keenan, Rosemary
Member
Kelly, Jill
Member
Laing, David
Member
Mattos, Mike
Member
McCulllough, Sean
Member
McDowell, Madeleine
Member
McGlynn, Chris
Member
Miller, Learie
Member
Nonnekes, Joanne
Member
O'Connor, Kevin
Member
Presutti, Michael
Member
Schulte, Deb
Member
Shortly, Anna (delegate of Thomas Bowers) Member
Vrana, Andrew
Member
Wicken, Andy
Alternate Chair (Appointed Acting Vice -Chair)
r_1:>;ya01r1
Burnett, Neil
Member
Calvin, Elizabeth
Member
Dasko, Stephen
Member
Dyce, David
Member
Felix, Rui
Member
Gomez, Orlando
Member
Groves, Annette
Member
Innis, Jennifer
Member
Lockridge, Karen
Member
Mallet, Lisette
Member
Malowany, Mick
Member
Ngan, Amory
Member
Olivieri, Sara
Member
Pickles, David
Member
Scotchmer, Carolyn
Member
Wright, Doug
Member
The Vice -Chair recited the Acknowledgement of Indigenous Territory
RES.#R13/19 — MINUTES
Moved By: Madeleine McDowell
Seconded By: Suzanne Barrett
THAT the Minutes of Meeting #2/19, held on May 22, 2019, be approved.
Items for the Action of the Regional Watershed Alliance
RES.#R14/19 - Appointment of Acting Chair and Acting Vice Chair
To appoint an Acting Chair and an Acting Vice Chair to the Regional
Watershed Alliance for the remainder of the Chair's term.
Moved by: Heather Broadbent
Seconded by: Andrew Vrana
WHEREAS the current Chair of the Regional Watershed Alliance is no longer a member
of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Board of Directors and hence, is no
longer a member of the Regional Watershed Alliance;
AND WHEREAS the Regional Watershed Alliance currently has a Vice Chair and an
Alternate in place;
AND WHEREAS the current term of the Chair ends with the Regional Watershed Alliance
meeting taking place Wednesday, November 13, 2019 (Meeting #4/19)
THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Regional Watershed Alliance appoint the
current Vice Chair as the Acting Chair and appoint the current Alternate as the Acting
Vice Chair for the remainder of the current term of the Chair.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The 2017-2021 Terms of Reference: TRCA Regional Watershed Alliance state that members
will be appointed for a two-year term with a possible extension of up to two more years. The
term of the current Chair will end after the RWA meeting taking place on November 13, 2019
(#4/19).
TRCA Vice Chair and RWA member, Councillor Jack Heath served as Acting Chair beginning
with the first RWA meeting on November 15, 2017. At the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA)
meeting on November 14, 2018 (#3/18), Jennifer McKelvie was elected Chair of the RWA.
Jennifer Drake was elected Vice Chair and Andy Wickens was elected Alternate.
The City of Toronto made new appointments to TRCA Board of Directors on July 18, 2019 and
Jennifer McKelvie was not reappointed. Section 4.1.4 of the Terms of Reference state that in
the absence of the Chair, the Vice Chair will perform the Chair's functions. However, it is
recognized that there is a distinction between the absence of the Chair and the Chair vacating
their position, and that as such, the Vice Chair cannot fill the role of Chair when the Chair's
position has been vacated without approval of the RWA.
RATIONALE
Given that there remain two RWA meetings (September 11, 2019 and November 13, 2019) in
the current Chair's term, it is recommended that the current Vice Chair, Jennifer Drake, be
appointed Acting Chair for the remainder of the term. It is also recommended that the current
Alternate, Andy Wickens, be appointed Acting Vice Chair for the remainder of the term. If the
RWA confirms these appointments, an election for the new Chair and Vice Chair will be held
upon the commencement of the next RWA term.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 5 — Foster sustainable citizenship
Strategy 12 — Facilitate a region -wide approach to sustainability
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
A new Chair and Vice Chair will be elected at the beginning of the next term of the RWA.
Report prepared by: Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707
Emails: Victoria.Kramkowski@trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707
Emails: Victoria. Kramkowski@trca.on.ca
Date: August 16, 2019
RES.#R15/19 - FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT UPDATE
Summary of current and future initiatives to improve flood risk
management, associated stakeholder outreach and overview of projects
funded by the National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP), as
presented to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) Board
of Directors on June 21, 2019.
Moved by: Chris McGlynn
Seconded by: Rosemary Keenan
THAT Regional Watershed Alliance members receive this modified report, originally
presented to the TRCA Board of Directors on June 21, 2019, as background on Flood
Risk Management activities;
AND FURTHER THAT Regional Watershed Alliance members receive the presentation
entitled "Flood Risk Outreach";
AND FURTHER THAT Regional Watershed Alliance members review the list of Frequently
Asked Questions to assist in preparing for possible inquiries from the public regarding
flood risk management activities.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
One of the core mandates of TRCA is to provide services to partner municipalities to reduce
flood risk. Activities within this realm include flood forecasting, issuing flood warning messages,
operating flood infrastructure, implementing flood mitigation projects, and the regulation of
development in floodplains. TRCA has continued to invest in all aspects of flood risk
management, and this work has been accelerated since 2015 by successfully securing over
$3.9 Million in matching funds through the National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP).
The roles and responsibilities for ensuring public safety during flood events are shared between
various levels of government, conservation authorities, and individuals. Municipalities are
legislated, through the Provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, to develop
emergency plans and undertake response actions, including road closures and evacuations. In
order to provide support to our municipal partners to meet their obligations for emergency
management, the TRCA operates a Flood Forecasting and Warning (FFW) Program in
accordance with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) Provincial Flood
Forecasting and Warning Guidelines. The program is designed to:
• Support municipal flood emergency planning,
• Monitor weather and watershed conditions daily and maintain a local data collection
network,
• Issue flood messages to municipalities, applicable agencies, media and the public, to
advise of potential flooding when appropriate,
• Operate TRCA dams and flood control structures to reduce the effects of flooding when
appropriate,
• Maintain communications with municipalities and the MNRF Surface Water Monitoring
Centre during a flood event.
In order to fulfil this role, TRCA works closely with partner municipalities, and with
meteorological authorities such as the Ontario Storm Prediction Centre (DSPC) operated by
Environment Canada and Climate Change (ECCC).
This mandate was tested on August 7, 2018 when an unexpected storm hit the Black Creek
watershed and portions of the Don and Lake Ontario watershed in Toronto. The sudden
appearance of a storm that caused flooding raised questions regarding responsibilities and
communication protocols in responding to these types of events. At TRCA Executive Meeting
#6/18, held on August 10, 2018, the following resolution was approved:
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in response to the August 7
2018 storm event prepare a preliminary report regarding potential improvements to
responses to flooding issues within the TRCA municipalities, including suggestions for
improving the municipal planning process including consideration of how to better
involve TRCA in the review of Committee of Adjustment and other planning applications
in flood prone areas; explore installation of additional gauges in flood prone systems
where gaps may exist; working with municipalities to improve the dispatch and
communication protocols; engagement with municipal members, provincial and federal
governments for additional resources; improved public alert systems and coordination
with media, and emergency management training.
While this report will summarize TRCA's response to the August 7, 2018 flood event, it is
primarily meant to outline the work that has long been underway to improve TRCA's flood risk
management program. In addition, this report will provide an update on NDMP projects that
TRCA has been undertaking to strengthen the program and fulfil Resolution #A109/16 approved
at Authority Meeting #6/16, held on July 22, 2016.
RATIONALE
TRCA's Flood Risk Management program plays a keystone role in fulfilling our Strategic Plan
objectives to reduce flood risks and protect communities. The program spans the full spectrum
of emergency management: from risk assessment, support of preventative measures,
preparedness planning, outreach with municipal partners, Flood Forecasting and Warning
during flood events, to flood event documentation and analysis after the storm. TRCA's flood
management program is one of the most advanced in Canada, incorporating state of the art
technologies in real-time gauging, hydrology and hydraulic modeling and multi -mode
communications. The program is staffed by a complement of Flood Duty Officers (FDOs) and
Chief Flood Duty Officers (CFDOs) who are on-call 24/7. During flood events, the information
provided by TRCA plays a critical role assisting municipal partners in making decisions for
emergency response.
The characteristics of TRCA's watersheds, however, present unique challenges. Many of the
catchments in TRCA's jurisdiction are small, steep, and highly urbanized. Intense rainfall thus
quickly accumulates in rivers and streams, leaving little lead-time before flooding actually
occurs. Flooding in the TRCA jurisdiction can happen at any time of year; fall storms can draw
on tropical moisture from Atlantic hurricanes, mid -winter thaws present the risk of ice jams,
spring warm-ups melt the seasonal snowpack, and summer brings the risk of thunderstorms.
These summer storms present particular challenges because they are highly unpredictable from
a meteorological perspective. The potential energy and moisture for a serious convective storm
may exist on many summer days, but determining exactly where, and if, they will form, remains
challenging.
In addition to utilizing weather forecasts and warnings from our partners in weather science,
TRCA operates a network of telemetered rainfall and stream gauges to provide real-time
situational awareness throughout our watersheds. As an additional layer of precaution, the real-
time gauges are assigned thresholds, and notification alarms are enabled to alert FDOs when
these thresholds are exceeded.
With the August 7, 2018 event, an unexpected tropical rainstorm formed over portions of North
York and moved slowly south across downtown Toronto. This very localized storm inundated
the Black Creek watershed and western parts of the Don River catchment. It caused flooding in
low-lying areas, specifically in the historically flood vulnerable community adjacent to Black
Creek between Rockcliffe Blvd. and Weston Rd. This storm was unusual in the following ways:
• It was unexpected — heavy rainfall was not forecast by the Ontario Storm Prediction
Centre and no weather warnings were issued prior to the event.
• It was highly localized and intense — only small portions of TRCA's jurisdiction were
impacted, but those areas received an extremely high amount of rainfall in a very short
period of time.
• It followed a track that evaded detection by TRCA's network of real-time rain gauges.
Rain gauges can provide warning for unexpected severe storms, as they trigger alarms
when unusually high rain is detected, well before river levels respond. Typically, this
allows for longer lead-time for FDOs to issue messages and contact municipal partners.
• The first indication of a storm event that the FDO received was a stream gauge alarm
indicating a high water level for Black Creek at Highway 401.
Upon receipt of this alarm and subsequent review of radar information (since there was no
significant precipitation at TRCA rain gauges), the FDO contacted OSPC to obtain information
on the storm. The FDO then proceeded to release a Flood Watch message, indicating that
flooding was possible in the vicinity of Black Creek and Lower Don River. Flood messages are
issued to TRCA's website, to an e-mail and text distribution list which includes media as well as
emergency management/first responder staff at all partner municipalities, and via Twitter
(@TRCA—Flood). The CFDO also contacted City of Toronto Transportation Central Dispatch
staff to advise of possible road closures in the affected area. In the case of the August 7 storm,
all protocols of TRCA's flood forecasting and warning responsibilities were met; however, the
storm being so localized as to not be detected by the rain gauge network delayed the issuance
of the Flood Watch message.
Although the nature of certain storms and our watershed characteristics make it difficult to
increase the lead-time in identifying a flood threat, TRCA has been working to develop a
decision support system for FDOs that incorporates the next generation of flood forecasting
models. In addition to this, TRCA has been continuously pursuing initiatives to facilitate a faster
dissemination of flood warnings and quicken corresponding action by affected municipalities. To
fulfill the request in resolution #B70/18, the following sections of this report will summarize
specifically how TRCA is expanding its flood gauging network, enhancing flood outreach and
communication, informing emergency management, and improving flood alert systems, and
provide suggestions for improving the municipal planning process.
National Disaster Mitigation Program
In 2016, TRCA's Board of Directors approved a 5 -year plan to enhance TRCA's flood risk
management program with funding from the National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP).
Projects included updating TRCA's flood risk assessment, developing new state of the art flood
modeling and mapping, installing additional flood monitoring gauges, undertaking flood
infrastructure optimization studies, and improving flood communication and outreach programs.
As an early adopter of this program, TRCA is completing numerous projects and has provided
guidance and leadership to other conservation authorities pursuing similar studies. Through this
program over $3.9 Million has been secured for projects specifically dedicated to reducing flood
risk. Attachment 1 includes a full list of the NDMP projects, and an update on their current
status. In many cases, outputs and processes developed specifically for one project have found
myriad uses in other flood risk reduction activities, such as the inundation mapping used for the
Lake Ontario High Water Level events this year and in 2017, as well as the Bolton Ice Jam in
March 2019.
Flood Risk Assessment and Ranking
While the application of appropriate planning and development regulations remains a primary
tool to prevent flood risk, there are many areas that were developed prior to hazard
management policies. These communities, where there is a high concentration of structures
within the regulatory floodplain, are TRCA's Flood Vulnerable Clusters, and represent areas of
historic flood risk to people and property. Currently, 41 such Clusters have been identified
across TRCA's jurisdiction as priority areas. Leveraging funding from the NDMP, TRCA recently
completed the Flood Risk Assessment and Ranking project. The purpose of this project was to
combine current riverine flood hazard information with an updated database of exposure
information and utilize the latest flood vulnerability functions in order to quantify flood risk at a
granular level. The overlaying of this information, together with expert research and stakeholder
input, was used to develop data -driven risk rankings of the 41 Flood Vulnerable Clusters. The
data generated through this project includes detailed information of exactly what is at risk with
rising flood levels. With the resulting information, staff continue to work in partnership with
municipalities to develop flood mitigation strategies for the priority areas, including enhanced
warning and emergency management tools, flood remediation capital works, and the
appropriate application of planning and development policies.
Installation of Additional Gauges
TRCA has constructed an extensive network of real-time stream and rain gauges to provide the
most up to date and accurate data to the Flood Forecasting and Warning information to FDOs.
Stream gauges provide water level readings, and corresponding alarm notifications, every 15
minutes. Rain gauges provide readings every 5 minutes. These gauges have been strategically
placed throughout TRCA's jurisdiction in locations with known flood risk.
In 2006, the network consisted of four stream gauges. The network has expanded significantly
since then, and now comprises 15 real-time stream gauges and 20 real-time precipitation
gauges. In 2018, TRCA obtained NDMP funding to expand the real-time stream gauging
network to 17 and the real-time precipitation gauges to 22. Increasing the density of the real-
time network reduces "blind spots" and the probability of undetected storms. Future network
expansion is being considered as TRCA is currently investigating a flood forecasting tool that
will incorporate real-time data with weather radar data to provide site-specific flood forecasts. In
order to meet the gauge density requirements to make this tool as accurate as possible, TRCA
will have to expand the network substantially, and it is the maintenance of such a network that
presents logistical challenges. To reduce the number of new gauges that would need to be
installed, TRCA is investigating the possibility of incorporating existing networks owned by other
municipalities and agencies. City of Toronto, Region of Peel, Environment and Climate Change
Canda and others operate networks that could be incorporated into TRCA's network, thus
reducing costs. Staff are currently exploring solutions to overcome technical challenges
associated with using external networks.
TRCA will continue to identify feasible expansions to the real-time network to increase warning
times for flood messages and has most recently upgraded the existing gauge at Westmount
Park into a real-time gauge to provide precipitation information in the Rockcliffe neighborhood.
Communications with Municipal Partners and Emergency Management Training
TRCA is continually communicating with municipal partners and improving processes through
engagement and training. Flood Risk Management staff attend working group meetings,
preparedness workshops, outreach events, and collaborate on annual exercises with the
various emergency management departments of our local partners. Some recent examples
include:
Toronto:
- TRCA is part of the City of Toronto Emergency Management Working Group
(EMWG), which includes representatives from Toronto Police, Toronto Fire, Toronto
Transit Commission, Toronto Hydro and all major City of Toronto divisions. Risk
specific plans for flooding are co-ordinated through EMWG and TRCA participates in
emergency management exercises to test emergency plans and response protocols.
Additionally, the CEO of TRCA sits on the Toronto Emergency Management
Program Committee.
Durham:
- TRCA provided leadership and input in the Durham Flood Response Plan, and
annually attends the Durham Emergency Management Office P3 Symposium
Peel:
- TRCA and CVC have jointly presented at CEMC meetings in Peel Region
- TRCA collaborated on the 2018 table -top exercise with Brampton Emergency
Management, and routinely attends their annual workshop
- TRCA has provided input into Mississauga's severe weather response procedures
York:
- TRCA has been a content partner for the York Emergency Management fair and
Markham's Master of Disaster summer camp
- TRCA staff have attended training with Vaughan Emergency Management, who is
also circulated on relevant development applications in flood vulnerable areas
TRCA, in conjunction with other GTA Conservation Authorities and the Ministry of Natural
Resources and Forestry (MNRF), hosts both the Floods Happen Workshop and the Provincial
Flood Forecasting and Warning Committee workshop annually. Municipal partners, emergency
management staff, first responders and water resource agencies are invited to discuss the latest
issues in flood risk management.
In 2018, TRCA also finalized the G. Ross Lord Dam Emergency Preparedness Plan that
involved participation and coordination with numerous responding partners, such as Toronto's
Office of Emergency Management, Police and Fire Services. A public information session was
also held in early 2018 for communities downstream of the dam to increase the awareness of
the risk of the dam, information about the emergency plan and describe the actions to undertake
in the event of an emergency directly related to dam failure or operations of the dam.
TRCA has also implemented the Incident Management System (IMS), an industry standard
organizational tool for coordinating a response for emergencies and is used by all response
agencies. IMS allows for seamless coordination between different stakeholders in order to
coordinate emergency response efficiently.
TRCA will continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure that all parties understand their role
during flood emergencies. The streamlining of communications through the embedding of TRCA
warnings and real-time flood monitoring information within municipal websites will be specifically
pursued. In conjunction with municipal partners, TRCA is also working to create public outreach
strategies to inform flood vulnerable communities about their risk and individual preparedness
responsibilities. This work includes partnering with municipalities to offer public information
sessions to flood vulnerable communities, creating webpages specific to each flood vulnerable
area and developing a list of Frequently Asked Questions (Attachment 2) related to riverine
flooding for these sites. Most notably, NDMP funding approval has been received for the
development of site-specific flood emergency plans. These plans, to be developed in
conjunction with municipal partners will utilize the updated flood risk mapping to allow better
communication and resource deployment for road closures and evacuations during flood
emergencies. TRCA has already convened a working group for the Rockcliffe site-specific
response plan, which will form a template for the remainder of plans in our jurisdiction. This
work will be completed by March 2020.
Alert Systems and Media Coordination
Coordination with media is managed by Flood Risk staff with assistance from TRCA's
Communications and Marketing team. TRCA sends all flood messages to media contacts in the
Flood Forecasting and Warning program distribution list. Media requests regarding storms and
flooding are answered by Flood Risk Management staff with the assistance, coordination and
oversight of TRCA's marketing personnel. Occasionally the opportunity is presented for TRCA
to provide a more in-depth and educational perspective on flood risk. For example, in April
2018, CTV News did a live broadcast at G. Ross Lord Dam to provide information about the
structure and various hydrometric tools used by TRCA.
It is important to underscore the utility of social media, particularly Twitter, in disseminating
information to the public. Members of the public, and even traditional media, are known to seek
information from Twitter on emerging situations. The expanded use of the @TRCA_Flood
account as a source of flood risk and response information is critical.
In 2018, federal and provincial emergency management officials introduced Alert Ready
messages for mobile devices. In the past, these messages could only be sent through television
and radio. The new mobile device Alert Ready system will now automatically push critical public
safety information to all cell phones within the area of risk. TRCA has an agreement with the
Provincial Emergency Operations Centre to push Alert Ready messages to residents during
activation of the G. Ross Lord Dam Emergency Preparedness Plan.
Planning and Development Considerations
TRCA follows a process for receiving planning applications for all properties mapped within
TRCA's regulated areas. These regulated areas include lands that are prone to riverine
flooding, but do not specifically include properties that may be subject to flooding from municipal
storm sewer infrastructure, as this is the responsibility of the municipality. This process is
established either through Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with our municipal partners,
or through long-established protocols with municipal staff. The applications TRCA staff review
include everything from large subdivisions down to minor variance and land division
applications. TRCA also works with municipal building departments to ensure that they notify
applicants under applicable law provisions when a TRCA permit is required prior to the release
of a building permit. Applications within TRCA's mapped regulated area are circulated to TRCA
and our staff communicate issues related to natural hazards back to the municipality and the
landowner.
There are a number of processes that our municipal partners could improve upon to ensure
natural hazard issues are addressed, with the first being clear early engagement with the
landowner. For Committee of Adjustment applications in particular, the first time TRCA typically
sees any problematic applications is after the hearing is scheduled on the committee agenda.
This leaves very little time for staff to review and engage the landowner and advise the
committee prior to a decision being made. In some cases, municipal planning staff may be
unaware that approval of certain applications will be inconsistent with the natural hazard policies
of the Provincial Policy Statement, Official Plan or TRCA's Living City Policies. Additional
awareness of input on applications in flood vulnerable or hazard areas from municipal planning
staff would be of assistance in identifying issues earlier in the planning process. Secondly,
Councillors and Committee members change over time, and incorporating watershed
management and awareness of Provincial policy considerations in flood vulnerable areas in
their jurisdiction into their orientation could help avoid inappropriate decisions being made on
hazard -prone lands. Finally, staff encourage both the upper and lower tier municipalities to
include clear policies and processes for natural hazard and natural heritage management in up
to date Official Plans, Zoning By-laws, Procedural manuals and Memorandums of
Understanding with TRCA.
CONCLUSION
TRCA manages a multi -disciplinary approach to the reduction of flood risk. Watershed monitoring
with real-time gauges, flood plain regulation, stakeholder engagement, public education and
communication all have a role in the reduction of flood risk. TRCA's urbanized watersheds and
the increasing threat from extreme events require advanced technology and robust response
protocols to manage flood events efficiently. TRCA is consistently improving the flood
management program, leveraging best -available technologies and processes to mitigate risk for
priority areas. These improvements include updating flood mapping/modeling, expanding the
real time flood gauging system and improving communications with municipal partners in
emergency management and land use planning.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategy set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 2 — Manage our regional water resources for current and future generations
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Funds for general FFW operations are available in operating account 115-60 (Flood Warning
Program) and 115-62 (Flood Risk Management and Communications). Gauging is funded
through capital account 107-01 (Flood Forecasting and Warning System). NDMP projects are
funded through various capital accounts. A list of NDMP projects is available in Attachment 1.
These accounts are funded by City of Toronto, York, Peel and Durham Region. Funds for
Planning and Development operations are available in operating account 110-01 and 110-05.
These accounts are funded through planning and development application fees.
Report prepared by: Rehana Rajabali, extension 5220; Sameer Dhalla, extension 5350;
Steven Heuchert, extension 5311
Emails: rraiabali(cDtrca.on.ca; sdhalla(a)trca.on.ca; sheuchert(aD-trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Rehana Rajabali, extension 5220
Emails: rrajabali@trca.on.ca
Date: April 8, 2019
Attachments: 2
Attachment 1: National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
Attachment 2: Frequently Asked Questions Related to Flood Vulnerable Area Outreach
Attachment 1 - National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
�-..
.count
TRCA/Partner
Federal
• • utline
Funding
Funding
NDMP INTAKE #1
This project generated an updated geospatial
database of exposure information, which was
layered with riverine flood hazard information
and the latest flood vulnerability functions in
order to quantify flood risk at a granular level.
This allowed for a data -driven risk ranking of
TRCA's 41 Flood Vulnerable Clusters. The
A4 Flood Vulnerable
Complete
quantified damage estimates have already
1
Database
Oct -16
- Sep -18
10709
$195,000.00
$195,000.00
been used to inform Return on Investment
calculations for flood remediation projects.
Furthermore, the geospatial mapping products
that were developed as part of this project are
already being used in site-specific flood
emergency response scenarios. This project
also enabled the purchase of LiDAR data that
has been leveraged for all subsequent
floodplain modelling and mapping activities.
This project developed advanced 2-
dimensional flood modelling within two high
risk complex flow areas: Rockcliffe Special
2 Dimensional
Complete
Policy Area in Toronto and Pickering/Ajax
2
Modeling of High Risk -
Oct -16
Mar -18
10708
$110,000.00
$110,000.00
special Policy Area in Durham Region. This
Flood Vulnerable Areas
information has been used to update
regulations, to validate flood remediation
plans, and to enhance emergency
preparedness.
NDMP INTAKE #3
This project provided accurate and reliable
A31 2 Dimensional
modelling updates incorporating recent LiDAR
3
Modeling Studies of
Oct -17
Complete
10758
$60,000.00
$60,000.00
topographic data. The revised floodline
High Risk Flood Areas
Mar -19
information was provided to TRCA's municipal
partners for the purpose of land use and
emergency management planning.
Attachment 1 - National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
Project Name
rt
tart "ateT
00
Funding
Program
• Outline
AL
Funding
This project assesses the viability of
A30 2017 Stouffville
implementing the recommendations from the
4
and Claireville Dam
Oct -17
Underway
10710
$140,000.00
$140,000.00
recently completed Dam Safety Reviews for
Feasibility Studies
Aug -19
the Claireville and Stouffville Dams located in
the City of Brampton, and Town of Whichurch-
Stouffville respectively.
This project includes updating approximately
65 floodplain maps for the Humber River
A27 2017 Floodplain
Underway-
Watershed within the City of Toronto and City
5
Mapping Updates
Oct -17
Aug -19
10756
$156,750.00
$156,750.00
of Vaughan, as well as the update of
approximately 16 floodplain map sheets within
the Carruthers Creek Watershed within the
Town of Ajax.
This project entails a comprehensive
A28 2017 Mimico
hydrology update for the Mimico Creek
6
Creek Hydrology
Oct -17
Underway
10755
$30,000.00
$30,000.00
watershed. The Mimico Creek is an urban
Update
Aug -19
watershed located within the Cities of
Mississauga and Brampton in the Regional
Municipality of Peel and the City of Toronto.
This project expanded the coverage of TRCA's
network of rain and stream gauges through
A29 2017 Real -Time
the provision of four additional gauges, as well
7
Gauge Improvement
Oct -17
Underway
10757
$60,000.00
$60,000.00
as redundancy equipment to increase the
Program
Aug -19
resilience of the current system. The real-time
gauging network provides enhanced
situational awareness during flood event which
benefits emergency response.
NDMP INTAKE #4
This project will build on the results from
TRCA's intake 1 flood risk assessement
A47 - Flood Risk
Underway
project by supporting public awareness of
8
CommunityOutreach
Jul -18
-Mar-20
10754
$130,000.00
$130,000.00
potential flood emergencies. This project will
Program
enable targeted information sessions for flood
vulnerable neighbourhoods, involving
municipal partners.
Attachment 1 - National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
Project Name
�..00
oun
Funding
Program--_
Project Outcomes I Outline
L
AL
Funding
M
____A
4A
This project will allow comprehensive
A45 - Don River
floodplain mapping update of approximately
9
Watershed Floodplain
Oct -18
Underway
10737
$130,500.00
$130,500.00
80 floodplain map sheets within the
Mapping Update
- Mar -20
municipalities of the City of Vaughan, Town of
Richmond Hill, City of Markham and City of
Toronto.
A48 - G. Ross Lord
The risk assessment would enable TRCA to
Dam Safety Risk
Underway
Underway
quantify the impacts of modifying the dam
10
Assessment &Flood
Oct -18
_
10757
$125,000.00
$125,000.00
operations relative to overall risk. This project
Operations
would provide stakeholders with a better
understanding of the dams risk levels
This project will complete a comprehensive
hydrology model and floodplain mapping
A49 - Highland Creek
Underway
update for the Highland Creek watershed
11
Hydrology & Floodplain
Jul -18
Mar -20
10753
$124,000.00
$124,000.00
within the City of Toronto. The project will
Mapping
result in a new hydrology model for the
Highland Creek, as well as the update of
approximately 30 floodplain map sheets.
This project will complete a comprehensive
Mimico Creek
Underway
floodplain mapping update of approximately
12
Floodplain Mapping
Oct -18
Mar -20
10739
$31,000.00
$31,000.00
20 floodplain map sheets within the
Update
municipalities of the Cities of Brampton,
Mississauga, and Toronto.
This project will complete a comprehensive
floodplain mapping update of approximately
A51 - Rouge River
Underway
103 floodplain map sheets within the
13
Watershed Floodplain
Oct -18
Mar -20
10738
$167,000.00
$167,000.00
municipalities of the City of Toronto, Town of
Mapping
Richmond Hill, City of Markham, City of
Pickering and the Town of Whitchurch-
Stoufville.
Attachment 1 - National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
Federal
Project Name�-
�.
Funding
..
• Outline
Funding.00
In partnership with the City of Brampton, the
purpose of this endeavour is to identify a
preferred alternative that is sustainable and
7of
will eliminate the risk due to flooding from
pton Riverwalk
Underway
*Funded
Etobicoke Creek to the Downtown Core of
nership with City
Oct -18
Mar-20
by City of
$1,500,000.00
$1,500,000.00
Brampton, up to the Regulatory Event
ampton)
Brampton
Regional Storm (Hurricane Hazel), while
taking into consideration the natural, social,
cultural and built environment, and
incorporates Brampton's Urban Design and
Land Use Study Objectives.
The focus of TRCA's previous risk
assessment applications was on riverine
flooding, and did not include the Toronto
Islands. This flood characterization and risk
Toronto Island Flood
assessment project will help facilitate an
Characterization and
*Funded
understanding of lake -based flood hazards,
15
Risk Assessment
Oct -18
Complete
by City of
$150,000.00
$150,000.00
community and infrastructure vulnerabilities,
(Partnership with City
— Jun -19
Toronto
potential impacts and risk to residents and
of Toronto Parks)
municipal assets, which in turn can inform
future structural and non-structural flood
mitigation investments. This project has
already proactively informed the mitigation and
response work underway to protect the Islands
from the historically high levels this year.
NDMP INTAKE #5
It
This project will update approximately 73
floodplain maps for the Duffins Creek
watershed within the City of Pickering and
Duffins Creek
Underway
der
Towns of Ajax and Uxbridge in Durham
16
Watershed Floodplain
Apr -19
_ -20
10770
$110,000.00
$110,000.00
Region, and the City of Markham, and Town of
Mapping Update
Whitchurch-Stoufville in the Region of York,
using new topographic information based on
LiDAR, as well as the results from the 2012
Duffin Creek Hydrology Update.
Attachment 1 - National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
Feder
Project Name"M
1.
-..rt'lF
�count
TRCA/Partner
. .
..L
• Outline
ML
Funding
This project will advance the development of a
Next Generation Flood
next -generation flood forecasting and warning
17
Forecasting and
7Apr19Underway
10774
$75,000.00
$75,000.00
system, which will have the capability to
Warning System—
Mar -20
provide site specific flow forecasting at critical
Development
areas as well as enhanced, real time flood
information to emergency responders.
The proposed project will consist of a
comprehensive hydrology update of the
Petticoat Creek
Underway
Petticoat Creek watershed within the City of
18
Watershed Hydrology
Apr -19
— Mar -20
10771
$40,000.00
$40,000.00
Pickering in Durham Region. The previous
Update
hydrology update was completed in 2005 and
was developed using the best available
information of the time.
In April 2018 TRCA completed a study of the
flood control infrastructure located within the
Pickering and Ajax SPA's within the City of
Pickering and Town of Ajax in Durham
Pickering Ajax Dyke
Region. The study included a number of
Rehabilitation
Underway
technical assessments intended to
19
Environment
Apr -19
— Mar -20
10769
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
characterise the conditions of the flood control
Assessment
dykes. This project would allow TRCA to
undertake an Environmental Assessment to
identify a preferred restoration plan, balancing
flood mitigation requirements with
environmental impacts, social needs, and
cost.
The proposed project will involve preparing
comprehensive flood emergency response
plans for the flood vulnerable areas located
Flood Emergency
Underway
within the Toronto and Region Conservation
20
Management Plan for
Apr -19
— Mar -20
10773
$125,000.00
$125,000.00
Authority jurisdiction. This study builds upon
the TRCA
the Intake 1 project which detailed the risks
and damages to people and property within
each of TRCA's Flood Vulnerable Clusters.
Furthermore, this project will include updates
Attachment 1 - National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
Project�count
�.
-..
.-
TRCA/Partner
Funding
Federal
..
Funding
"'-A
• Outline
and enhancements to the flood risk
7
management website, and monitoring sites.
The Rockcliffe area is one of TRCA's
previously identified Flood Vulnerable Clusters
and also a Special Policy Area. Many of these
properties have experienced surface and
basement flooding during severe storms due
to riverine flooding and/or overloading of the
local sewer systems. TRCA and the City of
Toronto have been coordinating efforts to
reduce flooding risks in the Rockcliffe area,
completing two separate EA studies that
Black Creek at
examined options to reduce dverine and
Rockcliffe Special
sewer system related flooding, respectively, in
21
Policy Area Flood
Apr -19
Underway
10772
$200,000.00
$200,000.00
2014. In 2019, TRCA, Transportation
Remediation and
_ Mar -20
Services, and Toronto Water initiated a
Transportation
Feasibility Study that will develop new flood
Feasibility Study
protection alternatives (with focus on high risk
areas), develop and refine cost estimates and
benefits, confirm construction feasibility, and
identify design considerations and other
implementation requirements for the TRCA EA
recommended flood protection berms, channel
widening and naturalization, and the flood
protection measures for the Jane Street
Crossing.
The project will include an assessment of the
performance of the recommended flood
Attachment 1 - National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP) Project Summary
Project Name
�.
�count
. -
TRCA/Partner
Funding
Federal
Program
.
oject Outcomes I Outline -
remediation approaches taking into account
the new modelling work completed by TRCA
including updated watershed flows from the
2018 "Humber River Hydrology Update
Addendum" and 2 Dimensional hydraulic
modelling as developed by DHI as part of
TRCA's Rockcliffe SPA 2D Modelling and
Mapping Update': It is anticipated that this
work will assist with the definition of scope and
alternatives to be assessed further as part of
a joint-proponency Municipal Class
Environmental Assessment by the City of
Toronto and the TRCA.
Attachment 2 - Anticipated Frequently Asked Questions
Please note that answers to many (but not all) of these questions are posted on the floodplain mapping
viewerpage: https://trca.ca/conservation/flood-risk-management/flood-plain-map-viewer/#fag
1. What is a flood plain?
2. Why is the flood plain important?
3. What is the regulatory flood plain?
4. How are the boundaries of the regulatory flood plain determined?
5. Can the regulatory flood plain boundaries change?
6. Is it possible to be in a flood plain that hasn't yet been mapped?
7. What is the undefined flood plain or spill areas illustrated on the flood plain map viewer?
8. Urban flooding vs. Riverine flooding
9. Is flooding still possible outside the flood plain?
10. What is the regional storm (Hurricane Hazel)?
11. What is a 100 -year storm?
12. Under what legal authority does TRCA map and manage the flood plain?
13. What does it mean if my property is within the regulatory flood plain?
14. What is a Flood Vulnerable Area (Cluster)?
15. Is my property still regulated if it is outside the flood plain?
16. What are the roles and responsibilities for flooding in Ontario?
17. In the event of a flood, where do I go?
18. Where can I get more information?
19. Is this information available in multiple languages?
20. What are the changes to the risk?
21. Why TRCA? Why Now? Why the changes?
22. What is LiDAR, & what new technology is being used?
23. Why is my property within the regulatory flood plain, but my neighbour's is not?
24. Will this information affect my property value?
25. What is a spill area?
26. Why am I only finding out now that my property is in the flood plain?
27. Why wasn't this on the title of my property?
28. When selling, do you have to disclose if your property is within the flood plain?
29. How will being within the regulatory flood plain affect my property value?
30. What are the flood insurance requirements for being in the flood plain?
31. Will it take longer to obtain a municipal building permit if my property is within the regulatory flood
plain?
32. Further information on our regulatory authority
August 29, 2019
RES.#R16/19 - CARRUTHERS CREEKS WATERSHED PLAN: PHASE 2 UPDATE
To update the Regional Watershed Alliance on the Carruthers Creek
Watershed Plan Workplan, including stakeholder consultation, and to
solicit feedback on the draft Management Framework presented by staff.
Moved by: Andrew Vrana
Seconded by: Jill Kelly
THAT the Regional Watershed Alliance receive the report and staff presentation for
information;
AND FURTHER THAT Regional Watershed Alliance members provide feedback on the
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan Management Framework and be encouraged to
participate in Stage 2 consultation on this plan.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
On April 1, 2015, Durham Region Council authorized Regional staff to engage the Toronto and
Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in a fee for service arrangement to update the 2003
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan (CCWP) on the Region's behalf. In June 2015, the TRCA
received authority from the TRCA Board of Directors to enter into a service level agreement with
the Region and to initiate the project.
The CCWP update is being completed in two Phases. Phase 1 culminated in the preparation of
seven peer reviewed technical reports that characterized the watershed's existing conditions.
Phase 2 was initiated in October 2017 and includes land use scenario development, technical
analysis, public consultation, and an examination of a management framework. The CCWP is
scheduled for completion by the end of 2019.The last update on the CCWP to the Regional
Watershed Alliance was at meeting #1/18 (May 23, 2018) and included a detailed description of
Phase 2 activities.
As part of Phase 2, extensive public consultation is occurring in three stages
Stage 1: The first stage of consultation took place between December 2017 and was completed
in October 2018. The CCWP Communications and Consultation Summary Phase 2, Stage 1
(Attachment #1) provides a detailed summary of Stage 1 activities and results and was
approved by Region of Durham Planning and Development Committee on May 7, 2019.
Stage 2: The second stage of consultation is currently underway and has the objective of
gathering feedback on the draft Management Framework including Goals, Objectives,
Indicators, Targets, and Management Recommendations from all stakeholders. Stage 2 will
culminate in Fall 2019 with Public Open Houses being hosted in both Ajax and Pickering.
Regional Watershed Alliance members are encouraged to take part in the Public Open Houses
and provide comments.
Stage 3: The third stage of consultation will solicit feedback on the draft Watershed Plan.
RATIONALE
TRCA has assessed the many changes and impacts which have occurred in the Carruthers
Creek watershed since 2003. The updated CCWP will guide future decision-making by
proposing recommendations for the protection, restoration, enhancement and overall
management of the watershed. Public and stakeholder consultation planned for Fall of 2019 will
be critical to identify current issues and potential solutions that will guide the development of the
CCWP management framework.
The Regional Watershed Alliance is an advisory committee to the TRCA Board of Directors and
as such, will be consulted throughout the CCWP development process. This consultation with
the Regional Watershed Alliance will include consultation on the future draft Carruthers Creek
Watershed Plan.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 2 — Manage our regional water resources for current and future generations
Strategy 3 — Rethink greenspace to maximize its value
Strategy 4 — Create complete communities that integrate nature and the built
environment
Strategy 5 — Foster sustainable citizenship
Strategy 12 — Facilitate a region -wide approach to sustainability
FINANCIAL DETAILS
The CCWP is a multi-year project funded entirely by the Region of Durham through a service
agreement with TRCA.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
Phase 2 of the CCWP will continue to proceed in accordance with the approved workplan and
CCWP Communications and Consultation Strategy (Attachment #3). The remaining high-level
tasks to be completed are as follows:
• All Phase 2 technical reports will undergo external peer review, like Phase 1 technical
reports, and be integrated to develop the Management Framework.
• Phase 2, Stage 2 consultation will focus on the CCWP Management Framework and will
be completed in Fall 2019. Interactive workshops were hosted with internal TRCA
technical experts as well as with municipal partners in July 2019. Public Open Houses
will be hosted in October 2019 (one in Ajax and one in Pickering) to solicit feedback on
the Management Framework from all stakeholders.
• Feedback from Phase 2, Stage 2 will be integrated into the draft Watershed Plan.
• Phase 2, Stage 3 consultation will focus on soliciting feedback on the draft Watershed
Plan and is scheduled for completion in December 2019.
• TRCA will continue to consult monthly with municipal staff and present at Durham, Ajax
and Pickering councils and/or standing committees of council as required.
Report prepared by: Cameron Richardson, extension 5639
Emails: Cameron. Richardson@trca.ca
For Information contact: Cameron Richardson, extension 5639
Emails: Cameron. Richardson@trca.ca
Date: June 26, 2019
Attachments: 3
Attachment 1: CCWP Communications and Consultation Summary Phase 2, Stage 1
Attachment 2: CCWP Communications and Consultation Strategy
Attachment 1 - CCWP Consultation Summary
Toronto and Region
Conservation
Authority
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan
Communications and Consultation Summary
Phase 2, Stage 1
January 2019
Communications and Cons uItation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
Table of Contents
1 Context for This Report..........................................................................................................................1
2 Communications and Consultation for Phase 2........................................................................................
2
2.1 Public Process Objectives..................................................................................................................2
2.2 Audiences for Communications and Consultation: Who was consulted?..............................................2
3 Communications and Consultation Activities: What methods were used?.................................................3
4 What we Heard.....................................................................................................................................5
4.1 Discussion and Understanding of the Watershed Planning Process ......................................................
5
4.2 Feedback on the 2003 Vision.............................................................................................................
6
4.3 Challenges facing the Carruthers Creek Watershed Today...................................................................
7
4.4 General Themes and Key Messages Heard Throughout Phase 2, Stage 1 ..............................................
7
5 Conclusion..........................................................................................................................................10
6 Appendix 1..........................................................................................................................................
11
7 Appendix 2..........................................................................................................................................
12
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 2
I Context for This Report
Carruthers Creek is a relatively small watershed with a drainage area of approximately 3,748 hectares, ranging from
2-3km in width and 18km in length (See Appendix 1). It is the easternmost watershed in Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority s jurisdiction and is located entirely within the Region of Durham with a population of
approximately 41,000 residents. Carruthers Creek's headwaters form to the south of the Oak Ridges Moraine, in the
City of Pickering, and the creek enters Lake Ontario in the Town of Ajax. The watershed is mainly rural north of
Highway 7and urbanized south of Taunton Road to the lakeshore. From Highway 7 south to Taunton Road, the
majority of lands are in the Protected Countryside of the provincial Greenbelt.
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), in partnership with the Region of Durham is undertaking an
update to the last Watershed Plan for Carruthers Creek, which was completed in 2003. TRCA will assess the many
changes and impacts which have occurred in the Carruthers Creek watershed since 2003 and review the current
conditions of the watershed through a multi-year process. The updated Watershed Plan will not make decisions
about land use however; it will make recommendations for the protection, restoration, enhancement and overall
management of the watershed that will guide future decision making for the watershed.
The goal of communication and consultation is to inform and consult with the public and stakeholders in and
neighbouring the watershed to create awareness about the updated Watershed Plan and to review and consider
input as the watershed plan progresses. TRCA hired a third party Consultation Advisor to ensure an independent,
credible consultation process. Public input is important to establish the updated Watershed Plan Vision Statement
and to consider public and stakeholder feedback on Management Recommendations. A new Watershed Plan will
aim to protect Carruthers Creek's ecological health now and for years to come.
Phase 1 of the project, which culminated in the preparation of seven peer-reviewed technical reports characterising
the watershed's existing conditions, was completed in Fall 2017. Phase 1 did not include public consultation asthe
work was completed by technical staff. Phase 2 of the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan update has been initiated;
the process is shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Phase 2 Key Tasks for updating the Watershed Plan
1
Establish updated goa is and objectives forth a watershed.
Bas ed on the cc nditions observed through Phase 1 and other watershed health assessments,
2
d eve lop targets forth a watershed and identify the actions required to achieve the goals and
objectives.
Establish watershed response methodologies/ assessments that will be used to measure how the
3
watershed could be expected to respond to ch a ngesin land use and other factors, such as
cl i mate change.
Develop, model and evaluate five scenarios forthe watershed, consistingof historic conditions,
4
exist ngconditions, approved development (as per current Officia l Plan designations),enhanced
natural heritage system, and a development scenario with an enhanced natu raI heritage system.
Form u late and evaluate candidate management actions to achieve the desired state of
5
wa to rshed h ea kh.
6
De ve l op Ma nagement Re com men datio ns.
7
D e I iver th e cc m pl eted Waters hed PI a n.
Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
As part of Phase 2, TRCA is undertaking extensive stakeholder and public consultation. Consultation will occur in
stages throughout Phase 2 of the Watershed Plan update and will follow the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan
Communications and Consultation Strategy. The Communications and Consultation Strategy was received by Durham
Regional Council in May 2018, and time lines were refined at Council's request in lune 2018. It is a dynamic
document that is adapted to respond to communications and consultation needs and opportunities as the work
proceeds.
Phase 2, Stage 1 involved updating the Vision which will guide this new Watershed Plan. During this initial stage,
communications and consultation were undertaken to seek input on the Vision for the Watershed Plan. Consultation
will also be undertaken in subsequent stages to solicit feedback on the draft Management Recommendations and
draft Watershed Plan, including the technical work completed as part of Phase 2. This consultation is set to occur
starting in mid -2019.
This report is a compilation of the communications and consultation by TRCA on Phase 2, Stage 1 which were
undertaken from December 2017 to October 2018. It outlines the public process objectives which guided the
communications and consultation and describes the methods and activities used to inform and consult the public
and stakeholders. It also describes what was heard and how public input is reflected in the new draft Vision and
ongoing Phase 2 work.
2 Communications and Consultation for Phase 2
2.1 Public Process Objectives
A key objective of Phase 2, Stage 1 was to promote awareness and interest in the watershed planning process and to
seek feedback on the 2003 Vision Statement. Durham Region and TRCA are committed to a process to develop the
Watershed Plan that provides opportunities for residents and stakeholders to learn about the health of the
watershed and to share issues and ideas for protecting the health of Carruthers Creek watershed.
The purpose of the consultation for Phase 2, Stage 1 was to:
Raise awareness about the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan.
Inform partners, stakeholders, and the general public about the process for updating the Watershed Plan.
Gather feedback on the Vision developed for the 2003 Watershed Plan and preliminary issues and ideas to
be considered in all the Phase 2 work.
2.2 Audiences for Communications and Consultation: Who was consulted?
The Region of Durham, Town of Ajax, and City of Pickering (Councils, Staff and Advisory Committees) have a key role
in protecting the health of the watershed and implementing the 2003 Watershed Plan and the new updated plan. As
such, the groups mentioned above are a key audience and stakeholder in all stages of the watershed planning
process and some were already actively engaging the public on issues they identified within the Carruthers Creek
watershed prior to the initiation of the Watershed Plan update.
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 2
Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
The Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan will also be of interest to residents across Ajax and Pickering (in and
neighbouring the Carruthers Creek watershed), environmental stakeholders, land owners, farmers, golf course
operators, businesses, and land developers.
Various audiences have different levels of knowledge of, and interest in, the watershed and communications and
consultation methods were gearedto these different audiences. Methods utilized are outlined in section 2.3 of this
report.
Additional stakeholders expected to be affected by, and who will have an interest in, this Watershed Plan continue
to be identified as work to develop the plan progresses.
3 Communications and Consultation Activities: What
methods were used?
The communications and consultation efforts used various formats and tools to share information and gather input.
The following provides an overview of the communications and consultation methods used during stage 1 and
should be read in conjunction with section 4 of this report which describes what was heard.
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan Project Website:The website you rsay.ca/ca rruthers -creek was developed for the
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan update as a mobile device -friendly online portal for information on watershed
features, current issues, and projects occurring in the watershed. Information available includes the Carruthers
Creek Watershed Plan Technical Reports completed in 2017. The website provides information on how the Plan is
being developed, identifying the Phases of work, and includes feedback mechanisms for receiving comments. As of 1
October 2018 (the end of Phase 2, Stage 1), the website has received more than 1000 visits.
Dedicated Carruthers Creek email — carruthers@trca.on.ca: Adedicated email address was established for the
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan update to provide a single point of contact for residents and stakeholders to
provide input. This dedicated email address was promoted through a media release and post cards distributed
throughout the watershed. The TRCA's Project Manager receives, responds to, and documents emails from this
address.
Online Survey: From February to August 2018, a survey was live on the website to receive input on the 2003
Carruthers Creek Vision and issues and opportunities for the watershed. A total of 72 people participated in the
survey. Specific questions on the Vision provided responses which guided the drafting of a new Vision for the
watershed. Survey responses were reviewed by TRCA staff and the Consultation Advisor and where possible,
incorporated into the Vision statement. The responses will continue to be reflected in the Watershed Plan as it is
developed.
Post Cards: A post card was developed and distributed by TRCA, the Town of Ajax and the City of Pickering at public
events in 2018 to raise awareness of the Watershed Plan and direct people to the project website and project email
address. Over 1500 post cards were distributed.
Pop -Ups: Pop-up outreach was undertaken from June 2018 to September 2018. TRCA staff with public outreach
training and experience facilitated the pop -ups. Each pop-up consisted of a three panel display with photos (with the
exception of the GO Station pop -ups) of the watershed and a future Visioning exercise. At some of the pop -ups,
interactive children's activities with bright graphics were incorporated to draw attention from families and spark
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 3
Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
interest in conversation with staff. The pop -ups generally took place over several hours with a few occurring over a
full day. The pop-up workshops were conducted at the following locations / events:
Ajax Trail Fest
Ajax Electric Vehicle Show
Ajax Canada Day
Pickering Auxiliary Rescue Association (PARA) Waterfront Festival
Ajax National Tree Day celebration
Ajax GO Station (morning commute peak hours)
Pickering GO Station (morning commute peak hours)
By going to where public already gather and high pedestrian traffic locations, staff reached residents who might not
attend an open house event, and who were able to offer ideas to TRCA and informally learn about the watershed.
The pop -ups were effective at raising awareness of the watershed and project website. Approximately 600 residents
were reached through the pop -ups. Post cards were distributed to encourage visits to the project website and
participate in the online survey.
Stakeholder Workshops: Interactive, small group, stakeholder workshops were held with key stakeholders who have
an interest in or are affected by the watershed. Each meeting occurred over several hours and included a short
presentation on the Watershed Planning process, key findings on the health of the watershed and review of the
2003 Vision. Following the presentation, roundtable discussion occurred to identify issues and concerns,
observations and ideas for protecting the health of the watershed. Three stakeholder workshops were held with:
Former members of the Carruthers Creek Task Force (an advisory and action -based TRCA committee) who
participated in the 2003 Carruthers Watershed Planning process.
Golf Courses within the watershed (Bunker Hill Golf Course, Hawthorne Valley Golf Course, and Deer Creek
Golf Club).
Environmental Non-government organisations with interests in the watershed and the watershed's context
in environmental issues across Southern Ontario (Ducks Unlimited, Environmental Defense, Green Durham
Association).
The small group stakeholder workshops facilitated reciprocal dialogue on suggested changes to the 2003 Vision and
ideas to be incorporated in the new Watershed Plan. The golf course operators shared their observations about
changes in stream conditions over time. They also provided information on their best management practices in the
field.
Staff to Staff meetings: Interactive meetings were held between staff of the Town of Ajax, City of Pickering, Region
of Durham, and TRCA. Two meetings were held, one in December 2017 and one in October 2018. The first meeting
involved a presentation and discussion on the watershed planning process and review of the 2003 Vision and
Management Philosophy. The second meeting involved a presentation and discussion on the status of Phase 2
technical work as well as communications and consultation for Stage 1. The meetings provided an opportunity for a
broad discussion amongst different departmental staff from each municipality. Further, TRCA regularly coordinates
directly with municipal staff through teleconferences, emails and correspondence on a variety of issues and technical
studies throughout the process. Group meetings will continue at regular intervals and key milestones throughout
Phase 2.
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 4
Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
Presentations to Councils and Committees: TRCA presented to Councils and Advisory Committees to provide an
overview of the watershed planning process, information on the health of the watershed, and to seek feedback on
the relevance of the 2003 Vision. Presentations to Councils and Committees were effective for clarifying the
purpose and approach for the watershed planning process and receiving input. An important outcome of the
presentations to Councils and Committees wasfor TRCAto clarify thatthe Watershed Plan does not make
recommendations about Greenbelt expansion, asthis was a major misconception.
Presentations were made to the following groups:
Town of Ajax Council
City of Pickering Executive Committee (of Council)
TRCA Regional Watershed Alliance
Ajax Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC)
Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee (DAAC)
Durham Environmental Advisory Committee (DEAC)
Ontario Power Generation Pickering Nuclear Generating Station Community Advisory Committee
In addition to the presentations, two tours of the Carruthers Creek watershed were hosted for councillors from Ajax
and Pickering. The tours with elected officials and TRCA staff were to observe various sites and conditions within the
watershed.
A comprehensive list of the communications and consultation activities undertaken for Phase 2, Stage 1 can be seen
in Appendix 2.
4 What we Heard
Key goals of Phase 2, Stage 1 of the communications and consultation were to promote awareness of the watershed
planning process, to inform the public and stakeholders on how they could provide input, and to seek input on the
relevance of the 2003 Watershed Plan Vision. Public input received throughout Phase 2, Stage 1 could be
categorised in four key topics as follows:
Discussion and understanding of the watershed planning process including clarification on expectations and
outcomes
Feedback on the 2003 Vision
Challenges facing the watershed
General themes and key messages for input to the development of the new Watershed Plan
Section 4 of this report provides a synthesis of what was heard with respect to these three topics.
4.1 Discussion and Understanding of the Watershed Planning Process
The consultation and outreach activities undertaken were important for raising awareness of the Watershed Plan.
The pop -ups were effective for informing residents about the Plan and the watershed, and to promote their
involvement through the project website and survey.
The postcard was effective for connecting people tothe website and email address. Many people commented that
they didn't really know anything about Carruthers Creek watershed and were interested to learn more as the
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 5
Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
process continues. With over 1000 visitors to the website as of October 2018, there was good uptake with many
reviewing multiple documents on the site. Those that completed the survey provided detailed comments on what
they perceive as challenges facing Carruthers Creek today, along with ideas about the 2003 Vision.
Additional input was received through the focused stakeholder workshops which identified ideas for updating the
Vision and concepts and approaches for consideration in the development of recommendations which will result
from the technical work in Phase 2. At one workshop, specific information about how conditions in the Creek have
changed over time was shared by golf course operators.
The presentations to Councils and Committees identified many important questions about how the Watershed Plan
process is undertaken. It was important to be able to hear and respond to these questions, to learn about concerns,
and to clarify thatthe watershed planning process and Watershed Plan will guide future decision-making for the
watershed but that it will not make decisions about land use.
The communications and consultation activities will continue through Phase 2, adapting to continuously improve
how information is shared with stakeholders, with both online and in-person opportunities for residents and
stakeholders to provide input and feedback.
4.2 Feedback on the 2003 Vision
Generally, the feedback received on the 2003 Watershed Vision is that it is a good statement and remains relevant.
When asked about what the public would like the Vision to say (question 7 in the online survey), some responses
were:
'The essence of the Vision is on the mark. Enhance and protect the Carruthers Creek Watershed to ensure that it
continues to provide valuable environmental and societal benefits to the community."
Watershed resident
"The Vision needs to emphasise sustainability, climate change and biodiversity and retrofitting existing areas. The
importance of continued research and science are important to acknowledge."
Environmental stakeholder
There is a desire to update the Vision with more current language and to incorporate new concepts and approaches.
Itwas also noted thata shorter version for the Vision would make it easier to be understood and recalled by
residents and stakeholders.
The following ideas were frequently suggested for inclusion in the new Vision:
Incorporate resiliency and adaptation to climate change.
Have more focus on biodiversity and improving ecological health and integrity through asystems
management approach.
Incorporate more emphasis on sustainability, restoration and retrofitting existing urban areas.
Highlight the importance of continued research and science.
More focus on health benefits of nature not just the risk versus benefit.
Encourage all stakeholders to participate in the stewardship of the watershed.
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 6
Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
4.3 Challenges facing the Carruthers Creek Watershed Today
The following is a synthesis of the frequently noted challenges and concerns that were identified through the
consultation activities undertaken (specifically Question 5 of the survey that asked respondents to list what they
think are the top 3 challenges that the Carruthers Creek watershed faces today):
Impacts from urban development and continuing development pressure with concerns about the impact of
more growth on the ecosystems
Health of the natural environment, noting concerns about how to reduce the spread of invasive species.
How to reduce habitat loss and increase biodiversity.
Concerns about waste, illegal dumping, excessive fill placement in the headwater areaswhich are
exacerbated by the perceived lack of enforcement of by-laws preventing such.
Concerns about human/pet encroachment particularly in sensitive areas
Insufficient storm water management in the urban portion of the watershed noting concerns about
potential temperature increases impacting species of fish and the resulting poorer waterquality
Concerns about erosion, silt, and road salt, and pesticides in surface runoff
Flooding risks downstream due to increasing upstream development and the impacts of climate change
Political commitment and funding for maintaining a sustainable watershed.
Climate change impacts.
Perceived lack of environmental protection for Carruthers watershed because it is outside the Greenbelt.
4.4 General Themes and Key Messages Heard Throughout Phase 2, Stage 1
A synopsis of the general themes from key messages heard at the presentations, stakeholder workshops, pop -ups,
online survey, and staff to staff meetings is provided in Table 3. Please note that these key messages are an
amalgamation of what was heard from all engaged audience types including municipal staff and council,
environmental organizations, business owners, landowners and developers, and residents in and near the watershed.
Some of the themes and key messages heard throughout consultation may not be directly applicable to the updated
watershed plan as they may be outside of the scope of the watershed planning process. These themes are being
reviewed as part of the process to develop Management Recommendations in Phase 2 but some frequently heard
key messages are outside of the scope of the Watershed Plan.
Table 3 —General themes and key messages heard
General themes
Key messages
Address resiliency and
TRCA should clearly identify how the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan
adaptation to climate change
will incorporate consideration of climate change and adaptation, as
this is a major change since the last Watershed Plan was completed in
2003.
Protecting the watershed is critical to prevent flooding.
Climate change modelling is of interest, especially as related to
flooding, impacts on biodiversity, and determining the ecological
restoration and natural area protection needed to prepare for 500 -
year floods.
Incorporate sustainability,
I ntegrate susta inability principles and incorporate newer concepts
restoration, and adaptive
such as green infrastructure, restoration and adaptive management
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 7
Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
General themes
Key messages
management practices
practices.
More emphasis is needed on mitigating urban development impacts in
the watershed. Management actions to retrofit urban areas should be
considered such as tree planting to address heat islands, edible fruits
and forests promote connection tothe earth, and increasing green
infrastructure.
More consideration of building practices that do not harm wildlife or
environment.
Highlight good practices being taken by landowners (e.g., golf courses)
to inspire and encourage others.
Ensure use of buffers, best management practices and low impact
development techniques for agriculture and urban development.
Explore ways to increase local food and food systems.
Enhance the natural heritage
Improve the ecological health and integrity of the watershed.
system.
Ensure that the headwaters are protected.
Increase biodiversity of species.
Protect and enhance habitat for wildlife.
Consider how a systems management approach focusing on
environmental gain and ecological integrity could enhance the natural
heritage system of Carruthers Creek watershed.
Consider health benefits and
While there is an interest in having more focuses on human health and
appropriate public use that
the benefits of nature, priority should be afforded to ecological health
place priority on the ecological
and connectivity of natural areas.
health of the watershed.
Many residents want to be able to walk throughout the watershed and
experience such things as a healthy active fishing community. There is
a desire for more trails and public use facilities.
Residents are also concerned that there is too much access in sensitive
areas, citing issues with human and pet encroachment, dogs off leash,
increasing litter and waste left in natural areas.
TRCA should consider how trails and public use can contribute to
human health and increased stewardship and support for
implementation, without compromising the ecological integrity of the
watershed.
Develop strategiesfor land use
Agriculture is important for the Region and best management
working with private land
practices should be applied to reduce nutrient runoff from agricultural
owners to reduce impacts of
lands.
human activity on the
Ensure buffers for agricultural lands and urbanization are adhered to.
watershed.
Require LID (low impact development techniques/practices) for
developments where stormwater flows into the creek.
More thought needs to be put into how our building practices harm
wildlife; storm drains are death traps to small animals, work with
builders to find solutions.
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Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
General themes
Key messages
Private land owners should maintain a certain proportion of their lot
as permeable surface; slow stormwater by de -paving, put in rain
gardens and use permeable paving.
Highlight good practices and pilot projects currently being undertaken
by landowners in the watershed to inspire and encourage others.
Strengthen controls and
Address concerns raised by what is described as excessive fill
enforcementof activities that
placement in the headwaters.
impact the health of the
Increase enforcement of illegal dumping.
watershed.
Address concerns about road salt.
Increase public education,
More focus is needed on stewardship, partnerships and collaboration,
awareness and stewardship.
and responsibility for the watershed, along with accountability and
transparent decision making.
Priority should be placed on showcasing demonstration projects on
sustainable living and sustainable community design. School projects
were also noted to be key to building awareness and action in the
watershed.
All stakeholders should be encouraged to participate in the
stewardship of the watershed. Everyone's efforts are needed.
There is a general concern that many residents and community
members in and near the watershed do not know much about it.
There needs to be more education and awareness of the importance
of its health and ways for people to participate and contribute.
Increased knowledge is seen as important to increase compliance
among all types of property owners to protect the watershed.
Would like to see TRCA continue ongoing stewardship programs in
conjunction with local government and the public.
Opportunities could be pursued to engage with Indigenous groups for
stewardship and environmental protection.
Develop an effective
TRCA should describe how the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan will
implementation and
be used and how implementation and action will be measured,
compensation plan as a key
including establishing priorities, targets, follow-up, monitoring and
part of the new Watershed
how stakeholders such as Environmental Non -Government
Plan.
Organisations can help to achieve priorities for the watershed.
There should be more focus on ecological restoration and how to
measure outcomes, including how to work with developers and use
compensation offsetting to achieve biodiversity and improve
environmental function. Offsetting discussion should include
restoration of lost wetlands.
Private businesses should be forced to provide compensation for any
damage caused to the natural environment and be required to make
capital investments to ensure prevention. This includes developers,
manufacturing industries, commercial vehicles, etc.
Enforcement needs to be included in the implementation plan to
address ongoing concerns raised that by-laws are not being enforced
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Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
General themes
Key messages
and resulting in damage to the natural environment.
TRCA should continue to monitor and report on watershed health and
ecological integrity to ensure the Vision established is realised.
5 Conclusion
This report is a compilation of the communications and consultation by TRCA on Phase 2, Stage 1 which were
undertaken from December 2017 to October 2018. It outlines the public process objectives which guided the
communications and consultation and describes the methods and activities used to inform and consult the public
and stakeholders. It also describes what was heard and how public input is reflected in the new draft Vision and
ongoing Phase 2 work. As the watershed plan continues to develop, consultation and communication with partners,
stakeholders, and the public will be an important tool in helping to createthe final Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan.
We would like to give our sincere gratitude to everyone who took the time and effort to become involved in the
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan by sending in their questions and comments, attending meetings, and completing
the survey during Phase 2, Stage 1 consultation. All of your efforts and passion will help develop a new Watershed
Plan that will protect, restore, enhance, and manage the Carruthers Creek watershed now and in the future. You can
continue to be involved as the Watershed Plan progresses by visiting https://yoursay.ca/carruthers-creek to stay up-
to-date and submit any questions/comments you may have.
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Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
6 Appendix 1
Figure 1: A map of the Carruthers Creek watershed and study area for the updated Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan.
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Communications and Consultation Summary—Phase 2, Stage 1
7 Appendix 2
Table 2 —Phase 2, Stage 1 Communications and Consultation Activities
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Phase 2, Stage 1 Consultation Activities
Date
1
Staff to Staff meeting: Durham, Pickering, and Ajax staff
12 December 2017
2
Launch website and online survey
7 February 2018
3
Stakeholder workshop: golf courses
20 March 2018
4
Responded via email, or postal mail where no email address available, to all
stakeholders who contacted TRCA regarding Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan
since the project began in 2015
22 March 2018
5
Media release, in partnership with Region of Durham, to local news outlets
4 April 2018
6
Stakeholder workshop: former members of Task Force for 2003 Watershed
Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek
27 April 2018
7
Carruthers Creek Watershed Tour
11 May 2018
8
Presentation to Town of Ajax Council
22 May 2018
9
Presentation to TRCA Regional Watershed Alliance
23 May 2018
10
Presentation to Town of Ajax Environmental Advisory Committee
07 June 2018
11
Presentation to Region of Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee
12 June 2018
12
Stakeholder workshop: ENGOs
13 June 2018
13
Presentation to City of Pickering Executive Committee
18 June 2018
14
Presentation to Ontario Power Generation Pickering Nuclear Generating
Station Community Advisory Council
19 June 2018
15
Presentation to Region of Durham Environmental Advisory Committee
21 June 2018
16
Pop -Up at Ajax Trail Fest
24June 2018
17
Pop -Up at Ajax Electric Vehicle show
24June 2018
18
Pop -Up at Ajax GO station
26June 2018
19
Pop -Up at Pickering GO station
27June 2018
20
Pop -Up at Ajax Canada Day Celebrations
1 July 2018
21
Carruthers Creek Watershed Tour
19 July 2018
22
Pop -Up at PARA (Pickering Auxiliary Rescue Association) Waterfront Festival
25 August 2018
23
Pop -Up at Ajax National Tree Day celebration
26 September 2018
24
Staff to Staff meetings: Durham, Pickering, and Ajax staff
3 October 2018
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Attachment 2 - CCWP Consultation Strategy
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Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan
Communications and Consultation Strategy
1.0 GOAL OF THE COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION
The goal is to inform and consult with the public and stakeholders in and neighbouring the watershed to
create awareness about the new Watershed Plan, and to review and consider input on the vision and
management philosophy, draft management recommendations, and finally the draft Carruthers Creek
Watershed Plan.
2.0 OBJECTIVES FOR THE REVIEW AND WATERSHED PLAN UPDATE
The primary objectives of the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan are:
• To update the understanding of existing conditions in the watershed through scientific research and
analysis of the physical characteristics of the watershed.
• To identify important watershed management priorities and action in urban and rural areas of the
watershed for the present and into the future.
• To continuously build on and refine, sustain, and reinforce the 2003 implementation framework. The
vision and management philosophy for the watershed will be updated and supported with new goals
and objectives based on the study findings.
• To ensure that Durham Region has the right information and knowledge base to make decisions
which affect the watershed.
• To ensure that this Watershed Plan meets or exceeds new provincial guidance for mandatory
Watershed Plans to municipal land use planning.
• To showcase leading edge scientific methodology and analyses demonstrating TRCA's Watershed
Plan development process as state-of-the-art, and exemplify our "next generation" of Watershed
Plans.
3.0 KEY AUDIENCES
The focus of the communications is informing the general public, and consulting residents and
stakeholders in and neighbouring the watershed. Stakeholders expected to be affected by, and who will
have an interest in, this Watershed Plan will be identified as consultation progresses. A summary table
on communication and consultation methods categorised by audience accompanies this strategy.
4.0 HIGH LEVEL CONSIDERATIONS FOR DEVELOPING THE WATERSHED PLAN
Phase 1: Completion of extensive scientific studies to update Carruthers Creek watershed's baseline
physical conditions and establish the technical foundation for the Watershed Plan.
Phase 2: Build on the work completed in Phase 1, review potential land use scenarios, and short and
long-term watershed management actions.
The starting point for this update is the Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek (2003).
11 P a g e Communication and Consultation Considerations March 2018
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The management philosophy and past objectives and management actions will be the basis for
developing the updated Watershed Plan. Key considerations for developing the new Watershed Plan
include the following:
• Build an understanding amongst the public and stakeholders of what the Watershed Plan is, how it
is being developed, the process and timelines.
• Explain how this Watershed Plan meets and exceeds the provincial requirements for Watershed
Plans which serve municipal interests.
• Address the status of the 2003 Watershed Plan (i.e., goals, objectives, and management actions,
progress to date).
• Identify sensitivities of Carruthers Creek watershed's natural heritage
• Communicate how the Watershed Plan's development will benefit from new information and studies
completed since the 2003 plan.
• Demonstrate how the Watershed Plan will be used to guide and direct activities in the watershed in
the future — including public and private use.
5.0 KEY MESSAGES ABOUT THE WATERSHED PLAN
An important aim is to provide clear information about the purpose of the Carruthers Creek Watershed
Plan. Key messages will be used to develop website material, responses to frequently asked questions
(FAQs), stakeholder materials, and information for online consultation and the news media. Key
messages will focus on the anticipated needs of different audiences and be updated as necessary.
Clear, consistent and direct communication on what the study is about, and what it is not, will contribute
to greater public understanding about the watershed and the Watershed Plan.
Content for key messages to be used in the consultation materials will be prepared by TRCA in
collaboration with the Region of Durham. The following key messages communicate the purpose,
scope, and expected outcomes for the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan:
The purpose of the Watershed Plan update is to undertake a review of the watershed considering
the 2003 management actions, existing conditions, new information and studies since 2003, as well
as current scientific thinking, in order to develop a comprehensive plan to protect, restore, and
enhance the whole watershed — lower, middle, and upper reaches.
• The 2003 Watershed Plan included a set of eight goals and twenty-five objectives which made up
the overall management strategy. There has been significant progress in implementing these
recommendations. This plan is a unique investment by the Region of Durham in original work to
understand the environmental conditions in the watershed that have evolved since 2003.
The work is being undertaken by the TRCA on a fee-for-service basis on behalf of the Region of
Durham. TRCA's role is to provide professional, scientific, and evidence based recommendations
for the protection, restoration, and enhancement of Carruthers Creek watershed. This involves
providing information, analysis, and management recommendations to assist the Region with its
consideration of planning and infrastructure decisions, as well as protection of Durham's natural
heritage and water resources.
• TRCA will ensure the final Plan meets and exceeds the provincial guidance for Watershed Plans.
2 1 P a g e Communication and Consultation Considerations March 2018
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The recommendations from this update will be based on peer reviewed scientific research and
analysis. Peer review is being undertaken by an independent third party to ensure impartiality and
rigour in the review and findings.
Land use planning decisions are outside the scope of the Watershed Plan. This plan is not about
making land use recommendations or commenting on development proposals or Greenbelt
designation in Carruthers Creek watershed.
The update will examine alternative land use scenarios in order to analyse the potential implications
associated with land use changes and identify measures for protection, restoration, and
enhancement. The analysis will not recommend a preferred scenario but rather identify
recommendations which are important to ensure the sustainability of the watershed regardless of
land use changes. This will ensure that the Region of Durham has the best knowledge base in
order to make decisions about planning policy.
6.0 PROPOSED CONSULTATION ACTIVITIES
The communications and consultation strategy for the Watershed Plan focuses on interrelated streams
of stakeholder and public consultation. Specific deliverables include the following:
P a g e Communication and Consultation Considerations March 2018
Phase 2 Consultation Methods and Deliverables
1.
Project Website with notice that Phase 2 is underway, scope of work, timelines; Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQs); mailing list for updates at key milestones; revisit 2003 vision statement and
management philosophy with feedback mechanism for public comments.
2.
Use a dedicated email address on the project website as a one -window approach for receiving
emails pertaining to the plan: carruthers(a)trca.on.ca. Respond to inquiries where appropriate.
3.
Conduct online survey(s) to receive input on the 2003 Carruthers Creek Vision and Management
Philosophy and input on issues and opportunities (2018) and feedback on draft management
recommendations (2019).
4.
Create outreach/communication tools i.e., postcards for distribution by TRCA, area
municipalities, and other groups, at public events over 2018/2019 to raise awareness of Watershed
Plan (drive people to website for more info).
5.
In-person outreach to reach a wide array of audiences through "pop -ups' throughout the watershed
(2018 - 2019). Potential Public Information Centre (2019) to receive feedback on draft management
recommendations.
6.
Stakeholder outreach through small group meetings to provide information and discuss watershed
management objectives and recommendations: TRCA Regional Watershed Alliance, Durham
Environmental Advisory Committee, Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee, Ajax Environmental
Advisory Committee, golf courses, former Task Force members, ENGOs, other stakeholder groups.
7.
Reports to Region of Durham Council at key milestones at the direction of Durham staff.
8.
Staff to Staff meetings: Interactive coordination meetings with Durham, Pickering, and Ajax at key
milestones.
9.
Media and Social Media Communications through the preparation of content for social media,
news releases, and updates on study deliverables.
P a g e Communication and Consultation Considerations March 2018
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7.0 CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT AND RISK MANAGEMENT
As the communications and consultation strategy is delivered, it will be adapted to meet project needs.
The following actions have been identified upfront to minimise and manage risk:
• Establish principal point of contact at Region of Durham and at TRCA for inquiries about the
Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan and issues management.
• Use a dedicated email address as a one -window approach for receiving emails pertaining to the
Watershed Plan.
• Monitor and adapt communications and consultation approach as needed. Undertake continuous
improvement based on the response to issues.
• Review media coverage and outreach.
4 1 P a g e Communication and Consultation Considerations March 2018
RES.#R17/19 - 2020 WATERSHED FORUM
To initiate feasibility work on a proposal for the 2020 Watershed Forum
and to thank the existing Watershed Engagement Working Group for their
work developing and implementing the events surrounding 2011
Anniversary of the Humber River designation as a Canadian Heritage
River.
Moved by: Mike Mattos
Seconded by: Margaret Bream
THAT preliminary information regarding the proposed 2020 Watershed Forum be
received;
THAT the current members of the Watershed Engagement Working Group be thanked for
their contributions to the year-long celebration of the 201' Anniversary of the designation
of the Humber River as a Canadian Heritage River;
THAT the Watershed Engagement Working Group solicit new and/or additional members
from the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA) in order to discuss the feasibility and
options for TRCA and other potential partners to host the 2020 Watershed Forum in
collaboration with other Regional Watershed Alliance working groups (Greenspace and
Ecosystem Services, Integrated Planning and Civic Engagement, and Youth Council);
AND FURTHER THAT a proposal, that includes an outreach and communication plan,
potential funding sources, and partnerships considerations for the 2020 Forum be
brought back to the RWA for input.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
Over the course of several Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA) meetings on November 17,
2017 (#1/17), February 21, 2018 (#2/17) and May 23, 2018 (#1/18), RWA members discussed
interests, priorities and potential projects and consolidated these areas of work into themes that
served as the basis for the creation of the RWA Working Groups, including the Watershed
Engagement Working Group (formerly the Watershed Forum Working Group). One purpose of
the Watershed Engagement Working Group is to develop an annual Watershed Forum to share
the newest and best watershed science with municipalities, stakeholders and other partners, as
well as discuss associated opportunities for policy and action.
At the RWA meeting on Wednesday, September 19, 2018 (#2/18), members approved the
following recommendations for the Watershed Engagement Group to take on the role of
Planning Committee for the celebrations surrounding the 20th anniversary of the Humber River's
designation as a Canadian Heritage River:
THAT staff report on the 20"' anniversary celebration plan of the designation of Humber
River as a Canadian Heritage River be received for input of RWA members;
THAT the RWA Watershed Forum Working Group consider adopting the Humber
Heritage Theme as a priority for 2019 and acting as the 20`^ Anniversary Planning
Committee;
THAT FURTHER THAT other interested RWA members consider participating in the 20th
Anniversary planning activities as appropriate.
Watershed Engagement Working Group members have contributed to the Humber River 2011
Anniversary celebrations, which have included:
• Humber 201 Anniversary Launch Event: TRCA partnered with McMichael Canadian Art
Collection to launch the Humber 201 Anniversary Celebration on April 12th, 2019
• Bolton Camp Discovery Garden: Working Group members provided input to the Bolton
Camp Discovery Garden Design Charette hosted on July 111h, 2019
• Humber River Stories: Working Group members submitted their personal Humber River
stories/narratives to the Humber's 201h Anniversary Engagement HQ webpage
• Humber by Canoe: Working Group members helped plan the Humber by Canoe Event
on Sunday September 81h
• Humber Heritage Committee Exhibit: Working Group members are planning an exhibit
commemorating the Humber's 201 Anniversary, which will be hosted at Lambton House,
Toronto from August 1st to October 31st, 2019
• Humber Public Art Project: TRCA in partnership with Greatness: The Great Lakes
Project and Waterlution: A Water Learning Experience are working towards launching a
public art project to develop a signature permanent public art piece along the Humber
River. This art piece will pay lasting tribute to the importance of the Humber River, Lake
Ontario and all Great Lakes through art, culture and natural heritage.
• Open House at Doctors McLean District Park: The City of Vaughan will be hosting an
event to celebrate the Humber River's 2011 Anniversary on Saturday, September 211
2019 which will include wildflower plantings, guided nature walks and an opportunity to
learn about the Humber River Urban River Valley and Vaughan's trail network
In addition to acknowledging the successful completion of the Humber River 20th Anniversary
celebrations and the important role played in this initiative by the Watershed Engagement
Working Group, it is now an opportune time to redirect the efforts of this Working Group towards
the feasibility of 2020 Watershed Forum.
Watershed Forum 2020
The inaugural 2020 Watershed Forum is intended to bring watershed planning to the forefront of
the professional and public consciousness and to highlight TRCA's role with our partners as a
leader in this field. The Watershed Forum is intended to focus on sharing the best science and
best practices available in the field of watershed planning and to involve audiences and
participants in the journey from knowledge gathering to action. The Watershed Forum is also
intended to have a geographical focus and highlight the issues facing TRCA's urban and
urbanizing watersheds. As such, it is suggested that the theme of Watershed Forum could be
The Urban Watershed: From Science to Action.
The Watershed Engagement Working Group will act as Planning Committee and will take the
lead in determining the feasibility of carrying out the Watershed Forum with support and input
from TRCA staff and partners. It is also intended that the other RWA Working Groups
(Greenspace and Ecosystem Services, Integrated Planning and Civic Engagement, and Youth
Council) will each lead the development of a particular component of the Watershed Forum.
This could include, but not be limited to: events that engage youth, such as a hack-a-thon; a
roundtable of industry leaders; screening the Watershed Forum in colleges and universities;
interactive citizen science -based initiatives; panels; pop-up working group or breakout sessions
resulting in a draft white paper; and other engaging opportunities that tie together science,
policy and action.
In order to successfully carry out the planning process for the Watershed Forum, additional
members and capacity will need to be added to the Watershed Engagement Working Group. As
such, it is recommended that new members be recruited to the Watershed Engagement
Working Group and existing members reaffirm whether they wish to continue their involvement
or join a different Working Group.
Given the emphasis on highlighting the path from science to policy to action within TRCA's
watersheds, the work of the Watershed Engagement Working Group in planning the Watershed
Forum will be supported through several mechanisms. Partnerships with local academic
organizations working in the field should be explored by the Watershed Engagement Working
Group. Further, in addition to a TRCA staff lead and relevant subject matter experts for the
Working Group, a liaison from TRCA's Science Committee will also be assigned to the
Watershed Engagement Working Group to help foster the connections between the science
carried out by TRCA and the opportunity to share it and engage audiences via the Watershed
Forum.
The Watershed Forum will meet regularly to develop and carry out a feasibility plan, work
program and key milestones for the 2020 Watershed Forum.
RATIONALE
Watershed Planning has been recognized as an important component of both environmental
protection and growth planning through the 2017 updates to the Provincial Plans for the Oak
Ridges Moraine, Greenbelt and Niagara Escarpment, as well as the Growth Plan for the Greater
Golden Horseshoe. The Growth Plan recognizes that watersheds are the most important scale
for protecting the quality and quantity of water and requires municipalities, partnering with
conservation authorities as appropriate, to undertake watershed planning to inform:
• Settlement area boundary expansions;
• Infrastructure planning for water and wastewater systems;
• Stormwater management master plans;
• Identification of water resource systems, including key hydrologic features, key hydrologic
areas and their functions; and
• Climate change adaptation goals.
The July 2019 draft Provincial Policy Statement that is currently maintains references to
watershed planning as a means for ensuring coordinated and integrated land use planning. The
Forum will help to ensure best practices are applied to support provincial, municipal and TRCA
policy objectives.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 5 — Foster sustainable citizenship
Strategy 6 — Tell the story of the Toronto region
Strategy 8 — Gather and share the best sustainability knowledge
Strategy 12 — Facilitate a region -wide approach to sustainability
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Staff will be involved in the development of the Watershed Forum as part of their existing roles
Any additional funds that may be required for additional expenses associated with the
Watershed Forum will be detailed in the Watershed Forum feasibility plan to be developed and
shared at the next RWA meeting on November 22, 2019. This work will inform potential budges
requests from TRCA to partner municipalities or other potential sponsors or partners.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
The following work has yet to be completed:
• Work program options and key potential milestones for 2020 Watershed Forum to be
developed;
• Other working groups to be consulted on assigned specific components; and
• Program options, including an outreach and communication plan with funding options
that can be brought back to the RWA for their input and endorsement for TRCA
consideration.
Report prepared by: Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707
Emails: Victoria. Kramkowski@trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Victoria Kramkowski, extension 5707
Emails: Victoria. Kramkowski@trca.on.ca
Date: August 9, 2019
Project Teams and Working Group Verbal Updates
RES.#R18/19 - PROJECT TEAMS AND WORKING GROUP VERBAL UPDATES
Moved by: David Dyce
Seconded by: Suzanne Barrett
THAT the verbal project teams and working group updates be received.
CARRIED
Items for the Information of the Regional Watershed Alliance
RES.#R19/19 - TRCA Responses to Conservation Authorities Act Review and
Amendments, Provincial Policy Statement Review and Great Lakes
Canada -Ontario Agreement Update
To update and inform the Regional Watershed Alliance on TRCA
responses to the Conservation Authorities Act review and amendments,
the Provincial Policy Statement review, and the new draft Great Lakes
Canada -Ontario Agreement.
Moved by: Heather Broadbent
Seconded by: Rosemary Keenan
THAT the Regional Watershed Alliance accept this report for information purposes.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has an interest in legislation, regulations
and policy related to land use planning affecting watersheds and Lake Ontario, and in TRCA's
mandate, roles and responsibilities as a conservation authority. As such, TRCA frequently
provides responses to governments' proposed updates and amendments that may affect these
interests. TRCA staff previously reported to the Regional Watershed Alliance (RWA) on a
number of these responses to provincial initiatives: "A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the
Greater Golden Horseshoe', "A Made -In -Ontario Environment Plan," Bill 66 (Restoring Ontario's
Competitiveness Act), and the consultation on "Increasing Housing Supply in Ontario" (Item
10. 1, Meeting #2/19, February 13, 2019).
The RWA also heard from staff on modernizing the Conservation Authorities Act and its
development permit regulation (Item #9.2, Meeting #2/19, May 22, 2019). At RWA Meeting
#2/19, TRCA staff reported that the then proposed Bill 108 (now the More Homes, More Choice
Act), contained proposed wording of the amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act (Bill
108, Schedule 2), and that TRCA staff would provide additional comments to the Province. The
summary below of TRCA submissions to the Province pertains to all of the recent postings on
conservation authorities, including the amendments made to the Conservation Authorities Act
through Schedule 2 of Bill 108.
Also summarized below are TRCA's responses to more recently posted provincial proposals
regarding the Great Lakes Canada -Ontario Agreement (review complete) and the Provincial
Policy Statement (review still in progress).
RATIONALE
Conservation Authorities Act Review and Amendments (ERO#013-5018, #013-4992, Bill
108 — Schedule 2)
On April 5, 2019, the Government of Ontario had proposed updates to the Conservation
Authorities Act and associated regulations. The proposed amendments were described and
posted online on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) for the public to provide
comment:
• Modernizing Conservation Authority Operations — Conservation Authorities Act
ERO #013-5018
(Comment period now closed)
• Focusing Conservation Authority Development Permits on the Protection of People
and Property
ERO #013-4992
(Comment period now closed)
TRCA reviewed the proposed amendments and consulted with its municipal partners,
Conservation Ontario and other stakeholders to consider the implications of what was proposed.
TRCA submitted comments to the Province through the ERO:
• TRCA Comments: Modernizing Conservation Authority Operations — Conservation
Authorities Act
® TRCA Comments: Focusing Conservation AuthoritV Development Permits on the
Protection of People and Property
On May 2, 2019, the Province introduced Bill 108, entitled the More Homes, More Choice Act,
as part of its Housing Supply Action Plan. Schedule 2 of this omnibus bill contained proposed
revised wording of the amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act. (Comment period now
closed).
As such, TRCA provided additional comments by separate letter (Attachment 1), which can also
be viewed here:
® TRCA Comments: Modernizing Conservation Authority Operations — Conservation
Authorities Act; Bill 108, More Homes, More Choice Act, Schedule 2, 2019
Passing of Bill 108
On June 6, 2019, Bill 108 passed Third Reading and received Royal Assent. A final version of
the More Homes, More Choice Act can be found here.
Next Steps: Enacting Regulations
While Bill 108 is now law, its provisions will come into effect at various times. This includes the
amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act.
Some provisions came into force when the Bill received Royal Assent, while others will come
into force on a day to be proclaimed by the Lieutenant Governor (through Cabinet) or by the
Minister through regulation(s). (See the grey shaded portions of the Act here, which need to be
proclaimed to be enacted.)
The key legislative amendments (not yet enacted) for conservation authorities can be found in
section 21.1 (1) of the amended Conservation Authorities Act. They require conservation
authorities to provide programs or services that meet the following descriptions and that have
been prescribed in regulations:
i. Programs and services related to the risk of natural hazards
ii. Programs and services related to the conservation and management of lands owned or
controlled by the authority, including any interests in land registered on title
iii. Programs and services related to the authority's duties, functions and responsibilities as a
source protection authority under the Clean Water Act, 2006
iv. Programs and services related to the authority's duties, functions and responsibilities
under an Act prescribed by the regulations
This same section also enables conservation authorities to provide a program or service other
than those listed above, but it must first be prescribed in a provincial regulation. Thus far, the
Province has not indicated definite timelines for the new regulations or enactment of the new
provisions.
The changes to the Act are primarily focused on clearly defining the core mandatory programs
and services provided by conservation authorities, in addition to a number of other
administrative and governance amendments.
Significant advocacy efforts by Conservation Ontario and conservation authorities (CAs),
including TRCA, were put into highlighting the critical role that CAs play as watershed and
natural resource management agencies and the need for the addition of "conserving natural
resources" as a core mandatory program.
Although this wording was not chosen, a partial "win" was achieved with the Province's late
inclusion of the last category of mandatory programs and services, allowing for any programs or
services not otherwise covered in clauses (i) to (iv) in section 21.1(1) to be potentially included
in a regulation.
Provincial Policy Statement Review - Proposed Revisions (ERO#019-0279)
On July 22, 2019, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing posted proposed changes to the
Provincial Policy Statement, 2014 on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) for a 90 -day
review period (comments due October 21 st). The stated intent of the revisions is to:
• Encourage the development of an increased mix and supply of housing
• Protect the environment and public safety
• Reduce barriers and costs for development and provide greater predictability
• Support rural, northern and Indigenous communities
• Support the economy and job creation
Under the theme of protecting the environment and public safety, the government's objectives
are to:
Enhance direction to prepare for impacts of a changing climate
Enhance stormwater management policies to protect water and support climate
resiliency
Promote the on-site local reuse of excess soil
Maintain current policies related to natural and human made hazards which directs
development away from hazardous areas including flood -prone areas in order to protect
public health and safety, while work by the Special Advisor on Flooding is underway
Maintain current policies that require municipalities in southern Ontario to identify natural
heritage systems, and provide flexibility as to how to achieve this outcome
Maintain protections for the Greenbelt
TRCA Policy Planning staff are coordinating comments from various divisions at TRCA to
respond to the proposed changes as well as the following questions from the ERO posting:
• Do the proposed policies effectively support goals related to increasing housing supply,
creating and maintaining jobs, and red tape reduction while continuing to protect the
environment, farmland, and public health and safety?
• Do the proposed policies strike the right balance? Why or why not?
• How do these policies take into consideration the views of Ontario communities?
• Are there any other policy changes that are needed to support key priorities for housing,
job creation, and streamlining of development approvals?
• Are there other tools that are needed to help implement the proposed policies?
Some preliminary observations on the proposed changes to the Provincial Policy Statement are:
• Changes generally reflect the numerous provincial initiatives for legislative and policy
changes posted on the ERO over the past several months.
• There is more emphasis on climate change adaptation and that it be done at the
watershed level.
• A policy on municipal management of non -provincially significant wetlands has been
added, though it is unclear what provincial guidelines will guide their management.
• Planning authorities will engage Indigenous communities, instead of encouraging
consultation only.
• Extraction of aggregates could be considered within natural heritage features outside the
Greenbelt, subject to certain criteria.
• Policies in the health and safety section (including Natural Hazards) are still subject to
ongoing review by the Province's Special Advisor on flooding (for which TRCA will
recommend further engagement, given the development pressures in our jurisdiction,
and the need to update the provincial guidelines on natural hazards and Special Policy
Areas).
• Thus far, the only change to the sub -sections on natural hazards is minor text edits
around climate change and risk from natural hazards.
• Specific definitions for housing options and impacts of a changing climate have been
added.
TRCA staff will bring forward a draft submission to the Board of Directors at their meeting of
September 27, 2019 for members' input and endorsement, before finalizing and submitting a
final letter response to the ERO.
Great Lakes Canada -Ontario Agreement — Proposed Draft Update (ERO#019-0198)
On July 5, 2019, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks posted on the
Environmental Registry of Ontario for a 61 -day review period (comments due September 4th), a
proposed new agreement between Canada and Ontario to restore, protect and conserve Great
Lakes water quality and ecosystem health. The stated intent of the revisions is to restore,
conserve and protect the Great Lakes in accordance with the Province's Made -in -Ontario
Environment Plan.
The current Canada -Ontario Agreement expires in December 2019. To support the continued
partnership on Great Lakes restoration, Canada and Ontario have negotiated a draft new
Canada -Ontario Agreement. This would be the ninth agreement between the two levels of
government. It is designed to advance action on key challenges facing the Great Lakes such as
improving wastewater and stormwater management and reducing pollution, including a new
focus on road salt and plastic pollution.
Once finalized, the new Canada -Ontario Agreement would be signed by:
• the Ontario Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
• the Ontario Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry
• the Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
• six federal ministers
Commitments in the draft new Canada -Ontario Agreement would:
• support the implementation of Great Lakes -related commitments in the
Province's Made -in -Ontario Environment Plan (draft released November 2018)
• advance the purposes of the Province's Great Lakes Protection Act, 2015
• align with the goals of Ontario's Great Lakes Strategy (2012, currently under review)
• support Canada's commitments under the Canada -United States Great Lakes Water
Quality Agreement
• respond to priorities raised by many Great Lakes partners in recent discussions with
federal and provincial agencies
The draft new Canada -Ontario Agreement is comprised of a Framework Agreement and 13
annexes. The Framework Agreement has 13 Articles which describe the purpose, principles and
administration of the Canada -Ontario Agreement. An Executive Committee will oversee the
Canada -Ontario Agreement and consist of senior representatives from the ministries,
departments and agencies of the Parties who are responsible for commitments in the Canada -
Ontario Agreement.
Each annex of the Canada -Ontario Agreement includes:
• a preamble describing what Canada and Ontario will strive to achieve
• intended results for the Great Lakes specific to each annex
• commitments Canada and Ontario will deliver jointly or separately to achieve the
intended results
The 13 annexes of the draft new Canada -Ontario Agreement are as follows:
Protecting Waters
Annex 1:
Nutrients
Annex 2:
Harmful Pollutants
Annex 3:
Wastewater and Stormwater
Annex 4:
Discharges from Vessels
Improving Coastal Areas
Annex 5: Areas of Concern
Annex 6: Lakewide Management
Protecting Habitat and Species
Annex 7: Aquatic Invasive Species
Annex 8: Habitat and Species
Enhancing Understanding and Adaptation
Annex 9: Groundwater Quality
Annex 10: Climate Change Impacts and Resilience
Engaging Communities — From Awareness to Action
Annex 11: From Awareness to Action
Annex 12: Metis and the Great Lakes
Annex 13: First Nations and the Great Lakes
TRCA Policy Planning staff coordinated comments from various divisions at TRCA to respond to
the proposed new agreement, drafted and submitted a final letter response to the ERO by its
deadline of September 4, 2019 (Attachment 2). Staff will report to the Board of Directors at their
September 27, 2019 meeting to summarize the proposal and TRCA's response.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 2 — Manage our regional water resources for current and future generations
Strategy 4 — Create complete communities that integrate nature and the built
environment
Strategy 8 — Gather and share the best sustainability knowledge
Strategy 12 — Facilitate a region -wide approach to sustainability
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Staff is engaged in this policy analysis work per the normal course of duty, with funding support
provided by TRCA's participating municipalities to account 120-12.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
TRCA response to the Provincial Policy Statement review will be compiled and developed by
staff and brought forward to the TRCA Board of Directors and subsequently shared with the
Regional Watershed Alliance. The TRCA response to the Great Lakes Canada -Ontario
Agreement will be shared with the Board of Directors.
Report prepared by: Mary -Ann Burns, extension 5763 and Victoria Kramkowski,
extension 5707
Emails: Maryann.Burns@trca.ca, Victoria.kramkowskiC&trca.ca
For Information contact: Laurie Nelson, extension 5281 or Mary -Ann Burns, extension
5763
Emails: Iaurie.nelson0trca.ca, Maryann.Burns&trca.ca
Date: August 19, 2019
Attachments: 2
Attachment 1: TRCA Response to Schedule 2 of Bill 108
Attachment 2: TRCA Response to Great Lakes Canada -Ontario Agreement
Attachment 1 - TRCA Response to Bill 108
Toronto and Region
Conservation
Authority
May 21, 2019
By E-MAIL UNLY (gloCauntariu.ual
Ms. Carolyn O'Neill
Mini5t,y of tl�lc Environment, Cvn5arvation and Parks
cheat Lakes ana Imai ta Water Blanch
40 St. Clair Avenue West, Floor 10
i uruntu, Omariu
M4V 1MP
scar MS. UNclll
Re: Modernizing Conservation Authority Operations
toun5vrvatrun Autfloritleb Alit (ERV irU1b-5018)
Bill 108, More Homes, more- Gholces Act, Schedule 2, 2019
Un May a, zuiv, i ui ur[tu antl Kegivn l:vnsarVatlun Authurlty (I KGA) sut)mltted uummems to the
Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) on the proposal to amend the Conservation Authorities Act
(CA Act). As noted in our letter, these comments were prepared and approved by TRCA Board of
uirel]tur In advance ut the roease Ut BIII iu8, the Mure Rimes, Mura Urluicas Att-, un May 2, 2019.
As the proposed amendments to the CA Act are now detailed in Schedule 2 of Bill 108: we take this
opportunity to offer the following additional comments. Furthermore, as many of the proposed
amendincnts to the Art are sunjeut to the details or tuture enabling regulatiuns, it is requested that
conservation authorities and municipalities Be engaged in the development of these regulations prior to
their release in order to successfully achieve implemcntatiun of the Pruvi, cd6 ubjectivo of inuaerniziny
cunservatiun authority uperatlons.
TRCA is pleased that the curent purpose and ubjacts in ME Cunserrafiun AuMurNes Rif rmain Drum
ana unchanged, to tacilitate cuntinued innovation and adaptation tur Iucal watershed -Based solutions to
current and emerging natural resource issues. The rale of conservation authorities (CAS) has evolved
over time to become critical on -the -ground implementers for a number of provincial and municipal yoals
and u5jectives related to natural resource management ana prutectiurt of the natural environment. In
the Ureater Uvlden Rureshoe, I RGA has played a critical role in addressing climate change risks and
the impacts of rapid growth and urbanization within its area of jurisdiction and beyond through
part, mrships witty utner CAs a, ia municipatitles. I nl5 work suppufts tnc Pruvini,c 6 a, id munidpaalil:65
etturts to tacilitate and manage growth while addressing pressing environmental issues such as Cake
Ontario water quality, flood and erosion hazard management, stormwater management, conserving
natural resouces and source water protection.
The suite of recommendations regarding the proposed amendments to the CA Act and associated
implementing regulations as provided in our submission of May 8, 2019, continue to remain applicable
1:416.661.600 1 F: 416.661.5898 I int-munrea.un.ca I 101 EncRange Avenue, vaagRan, UN 14K !>R6 I www.trca.ca
based upon our review of the details provided in Schedule 2 of Rill 108. We would, however, like to
highlight and raltpratp snore of nur PrPvinuc rnmmpntc and recnmmandatlnns, in additlno to providing
cnmp now rnmmantc.
Defining core mandatory programs and sprviras
RIII inR RMPdule 2 prnvides a new clausP 2j.j (j):
2 1. 1 (1) If a program or service that meets any of the following descriptions has been prescribed
by the requlations, an authority shall provide the program or service within its area of
itirisdiction:
1. Programs and cenrires relatpd to the rick of natural hazarrl_c.
2. Programs and services related to the conservation and management of Lands owned or
controlled by the authnrity includinq any interests in land registared on i tie.
._3. eroorams and services related to the autharity s duties, functions and no-Va isihilitins as a
source pratp—rJino authnrity under the mean Wat'r Art, 2n'—)E
4. Programs and services related to the authority's duties. functions and responsibilities under
an Act prescribed by the regulations.
CnncArvatinn Authnrities undartnkp watorchPrt_hacart prngramc to protan ppnplp and property from
flooding and other natural hazards, and TRCA recognizes hazard management as a provincially
mandated program. To provide clarity and intent in describing programs and services, it is
recommended that the wording in the ERn posting, "natural hazard protecting and managpment" he
ucad inctaad nf'4he rick of natural hazards" ac propnced in Rill 1nR.
Tree planting, restoring natural areas and conservation services programs are examples of
rnnsPrvatiog authority artivitiec that impmve the landscape and make the watershed mnrP recilieot to
the variatinns in prA66tntinn patterns rPculting frnm nlimatA change. Ac such, natural hazards and
natural heritage are intrinsically linked. and best addressed in a holistic manner through integrated
watershed planning. Further, the integration of natural hazard, natural heritage and other watershed -
based programs provides optimum rust snvings and Pffirianciec. Arrnrdiogly, ac previously regupsted,
wa rarnmmpnd the fnllnwing:
To be consistent with the purpose and objects of the CA Act, as well as the Made in
Ontario Environment Plan, IBCA rnotinuPs to rernmmPnd That the management and
ennservatinn of natural rPsnurrPc ha inrludad in the cnre mandatory prngrams.
Minister appointed investigator(s) for audits
As indicated in nur p_rPvinuc rnmmPnts, trancparanry to our funders and ctakphnldp.rc is of utmnst
impnrtanrp to IR(.A. Wa arrnmplich this through financial nrcountahility rlausac in Upmnrnndumc of
Understanding/Service Level Agreements, in addition to our annual financial statement audit. However.
having reviewed the powers of an investigator, reporting and cost of an investigation as set out in
sartinn 23,j(4-11), wP rnntinuP to have rnnegmc ahnut frivnlnus rogupats at the cost (time and/or
fjnanrial) of rnneoaiatinn authnriitlac. As curh, we [Plterato nur pcovinuc rPrnmmendatlnn that the Art
be amended to reflect the following:
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 2
That the Minister or any partner municipality Be allowed to request an audit of special
purpose financial information limited strictly to how their funds have been spEnt, at their
must, and that uverali fina,nuial acuvamal ility remain as a tiaoWary responsibility ut the
Conservation Authority's Board of Directors.
i his wuula ailuw our Buaro ut uirectu,s tv retain their right to request aaaitiunal auaitslinvGstiyatiuns By
third parties as they deem necessm y, in accordance with their ndocim y duties to the organization. 1 his
would provide peau of mind to our partners, while respecting the vital role that our Board of Directors
plays in yuvc, niny oar nut-fvr-profit uryanizaiun. Further to tnis point, it any stakehulaer would like this
uppurtunity to request that a GA unaevyo anuther type of ii rvestigatiun, they are able to attend a board
meeting and explain their motivation and have the Board vote on the requirement for such an
examination in a transparent manner.
Aaaltiunaar Amendments:
Risk Manavemenyindemnitication Glasse
Although it is not included in the Ministry's proposal, TRCA would like to reiterate our request for
aaaitiunal wurainy regarainy risk management.
Given the potential liability associated with the operation of flvod and erosion control infrastructure and
programs for which conservation authorities are responsible, particularly in the face of increased liability
exposures associatea witn climate change, some Turm of statutu, y immunity tur the good Taitn uperatiur,
of this essential imrastractare and programming is warranted. I K(;A requests:
That a clause of indemnification or statutory immunity for tfie good faith operation of
Essential fluud and Erusiun �untrul infrastrocture and programming Be added tv the CA Act.
Enforcement and Compliance Enhancements
TRCA supports proclaiming un -proclaimed sections of the Act for better deterrents to non-compliance
with aectiun Z8 reg'ulatiuns. uu,ing the 2u17 GA Act review aha amendments, I RGA was pleased to
see substantial amendments were made to the Act to enhance enfurcernent mechanisms and the
significantly higher (offence) penalties than those currently identified in the Act. The immediate need
Tur improved aetermnts tv nun-%,umplianoe is mote in I RGA's hignly urbanized waterfieas given
current aevelupment and populatiun pressures, increasing risks to health and safety and property
damage from illegal activities, trespass: dumping and extreme weather events. To that end, as detailed
In ujur previuus a ummants, i RCA rewmmenaea:
I fiat enfiancrd provisions fur enforcement and cumplianue BE added to the GA Act,
including stop work orders, orders to comply, clarification for "after the fact" permits and
a definitiun of an "uffice, fur enfu, eement purpvses.
Further to the above, I RGA offers the Tulluwiny new ovmments regarding emoruemcnt ana compliance
provisions under section 29 at the CA Act related to conservation lands. owned and managed by
conservation authorities.
imam ana Region w-n.er.atian HatRoritr 1 3
As urbanization pressures increase and the population expands within our communities, there is a
(bowing responsibility no CAs to prPRPrve and prntPrt these valuahle- grPP.nspar.Pq. Ongniog ahUsp by
a rP..lativP.ly Rmall nUmhP.r of irrP.CpnnRihle.. URprR rnotioueC to degrade thp. P.Gnloglrml Intpgrlty of the
landc and pncas a significant threat to the public's enjoyment and safety. Community expectations to
address unlawful activities on these lands in an efficient and effective manner and to provide patrons
with a safe and enjayahle environment pnsec a significant challenge to (Ac due to current legislative
rPetrlrtinnc.
nPtArranra and prntertinn of rnncaruntinn nuthnrity lands within_ the prnuinra thrnygh c.99 of tha rtdd
and associated regulation(s) should be consistent to the protections afforded under the Provincial Parks
and CWservatinp Besprves Act (EEQRA), Further, these efforts should demonstrate a commitment to
providing CAR with tha naracsary tnnls to fulfill the nhligatinnc Undar a rnrP n3nndata in tha
rnnceruation and management of our lands. Attachment 1 to this letter identifies the current legislative
restrictions in more detail along with recommended amendments to the CA Act and any associated
regulatinns that would address these rhapengac.
no the hack that prngramR and Rpruirpe rglated to the rnnspo[atinn and managpment of landc
owned nr rnntrniled by the authority. including any interests in land registered nn title, are
considered mandatory, TRCA recommends that section 29 provisions of the CA Act and
associated regulations for enforcement and compliance he consistent with the protections
affnrdod undar the Provincial Parke and rnnearvatlnn Racerm a Art.
Thank you once again fnr the opportunity to provide comments on this important initiative. IBCA would
be pleased to discuss these and other opportunities for modernizing conservation authority operations
and governance thrnugh amendmpnts to the Conservation Authorities Act and associated regulatinoc.
Should you have any gUpctionR, rpguirp rinrifjratinn, nr wish to meet to dicrURR any of the ahnvp
remarks, please contact the undersigned at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
9/2
John MacKenzie, M.Sc.(PI). MCIP, RPP
Chief Executive_ offices
Fnr.Inqure: Attarhmpnt J: rnnsPrvatinn Authnritiec Art, 5,99 Fnfnrrament and Cnmplinnre.
Enhnnramantc
BY E-MAIL
rc: Ur. Alax MAO and. Uinictry of Natural Rasourcas and Eorestry roncervatinn Pnliry Rrnnrh
=grggtg and paeigg rng=a^,atigg Autkerity 1 4
Attachment 1:
Conservation and Management of Conservation Aathoritieb Lands
Conservation Authorities Act. S.29 Enforcement and CompGancc Enhancements
Bacliground:
uunscrvatiun lands: owned and managed By Untario's conservation Authorities (CAs), are
unen a gateway to the public; exposing them to the signiticant contributions of cAs in the
piutection and erinane emCnt of the watersneas within the Province. i hey provide valuaBle
opporfanities fur people to wnnect with nature and explore ifflmcrous outdoor recreational
uppurtanide5 within their communities sack as camping, hikiny, swimming, picnickiny, ano
relaxing wlthii, these natural spaucs. CAS, cum15ined, own approximately 14b,00U hectares of
property throughout the Province, often luxated within or adjacent to arBan centres.
Officers appointed under s. 29 of the Conservation Authorities Act (CAA) are required to
regulate and govern the use of conservation areas, campgrounds, and large land 113c15,
comparable to the role of Park Wardens within the Provincial Parks system. CA officers are
customer service oriented and focus on a compliance -based approach through education and
awareness, as opposed to taking punitive actions to achieve a desired outcome.
compliance cFiarlenges:
As urbanization pressurCb increase and the population expands within uui curr,munities, there
is a growing respurnsiBility an UAS to preserve and pruteut tnese valuaBle yreenspaces.
Onyyoiny abuse by a relatively small numBei at irrspuns5c users continues to degrade the
ecological ime-yriry of the lands a A poses a siynificant thrtiat to the paBliu s enjoyment ano
safety. Community expcctaiiuns to address unlawful activities an thebe iands in an cnicient
and effective manner and to provide patrons with a safe and enjoyable environment pobeb a
significant challenge to CAs due to current legislative restrictions.
Deterrence and protection of conservation authority lands within the Province through s.29 of
the LAA and associated regulation(s) should be consistent to the protections afforded under
the ProviriCial Narks arid' Ganservation Heserves Act (PPCRA) and should demonstrate a
wmmitment to provide cAs with the necessary tools to rultill the a5ligations under a core
mandate in the conservation and management at our lands.
Unlawful activities in which UA umcer are cuntrunted with range tram illegal and often
commercial harvesting of flus and fauna; illegai panting; dray cultivation; illcyal damping of
waste soils and yarbagc; damage or theft of prupeFfy; Ilivyaal uSe aiid damaging cttecis —or art -
road vehicles; liquor offences and criminal offvnceb. Thebe andesirable activities are
proportionate to the pressures and challenges experienced within our Provii icial Pai ks.
ioronto and Region Lon.ar.atien Aatricrity 1 5
When rnmparing the CAA and the 22CBA, the shnrt-fnrm offence wording prohibitions of user
activities are similar in nature, however, CA nffjrers do not possess similar lawful authority to
reguire identification, stop vehicles, inspect, search and seize items involved with substantial
offences on our lands. Having similar officer authorities, as those defined within the PPCRA,
achieves a coordinated compliance and enforcement npprnarh within the Prnviorp for
addressing ynaythnri7ed, uncafP and damaging artivitiac within nur prnterted parks and
grPPnsnarP lands, particularly ac it relates to Prnvinrial Clffenres matters,
I Pgislativg RPstrirtinps:
Currently there is no definitive definition of an "officer" within the CAA, and the pending
provisions under s. 30 of the CAA only identifies that "An authority may appoint officers for the
purposes of ensuring compliance with the Act and regulations". Appointed officers of the CAA
are currently provided a class designation as Provincial nffPnrPs nffirers thrnugh the nnipistpr
Of Wnturaj Rpenyrr.pc and FnrPctry Undor cartinn J (3) of the Provincial Offences Act (2nA),
with Pnfnrrement pnwers iimitpd to the rAA nnri the Trespass M eropertV Act
The P-2C@A defines "nfficers" under s. 5(1) to include "a conservation officer, a park warden, a
park ranger, a district manager, a conservation reserve manager, a superintendent and an
assistant superintendent designated under s. 12", which states that "The Minister may
designate a person or class of persons as park wardens for the purpose of this Act and the
regulations". The "Powers of Officers" under the Act are outlined in c.sz whprp "An nffirer has
all the power and authority of a member of the Ontario 2mvin_rial Pnlirp within a Prnvinrjal
Park or rnnspotatinn rPCPn/p
The authnritV affnrriPd to `nfficers" within Prnvinrial Parks is pre.srrihPd by speriflr. Ontario
Parka policies and provides lawful acress to other relevant Provincial legislation In the
execution of their duties, including the Liquor Licence Act (LLA), Off -Road Vehicles Act
(ORVA), Motorized Snow Vehicles Act (MSVA), and applicable provisions of the Highway
Traffic Act (HTA). Officers appointed under the CAA are not currently afforded the came level
of authority.
erPvinuc riacc designations, through the hAinistar of W;ituraj Resnurres and Forestry, did
prnvlrte CA nffirers the lawful authority under the 1 1 A. nHVA, MSVA and the nBVA, however
these legislative ahjjities were removed as a result of restrictlnns within those Acts, particularly
rpgardinq CA officer appointments and "officer" definitions. The enforcement of these
additional Acts is restricted to defined "police officers" or "peace officers", depending on the
legislation.
Currently, pnlica rpcnurre8 to accict rA nfficerc in the enfnrcement on nur janric is hprnming
jorrpaciogly limitpri, Providing CA nffirerc the allthnrify to e.ffP.rtively addrP.aa unattthnri7P.d,
uncafP and damaging artivitiec sPrvPc the hest interest of nur stakeholders and patrons,
reduces liahilitV assnriated with unauthnri7ed antivities and hetter prnterts the integrity of the
ernlogicallV sensitive lands within nurjurisdirtino. Pnljre Services provide invaluable
assistance to CAs, particularly incidents of a criminal nature, however there is an expectation
Toroutc =ud a=ging [no«r„atioo Aythority 1 6
that CA uffiuers will address unlawful activities in an effeZive manner, particularly relating to
Provincial offence-uriented matter.
In the past, Special Constable designations were provided to several CAs in the Province
through the Ontario Provincial Police, and other Police Services, to assist officers in fulfilling
the expectations of our communities to protect our greenspaces. These appointments provided
lawtul access to other important relevant Provincial Acts, such as LLA, ORVA, MSVA, ORVA
and specitic provisions of the H IA. In 2006, conservation authorities were notified that these
designations would not Be renewed past their expiry Hates; not as a result of an abuse of
power By any t;A otticer: But these "Burrowed powers: wuula Be Better served By changing our
existing legislation to enaBie UA utticers to ettectively address occurrences on our lands.
Requested UA Amendments and otf yr Kwievant Pruvincial Legislation:
Updating enforuement provisions within the CAA, similar to thuse atturded within the taeCHA,
such as the authority to re4uirc idontlfluation; stop vehicles; alleviate ubstructiun of ufficers;
inspect, search and seize items associated with substantial uffenuez, in additiun to
amendments to the CAA regulation, such as the ability to remove individuals and cancel
permits, as cited in Appendix A, will allow for increased enforcement efficiencies, deter m luc of
undesirable activities and preservation of evidence associated with offences committed within
conservation lands.
Providing a clear aetinition of "otticer' witfiin the CAA would provide ciaritication of the authority
at GA officers and allow Tor additional legislative tools to Be added to GA class designations.
As previously noted, several usetal Provincial statutes are unavailaBle to UAs as a result of the
uarrent-utticer explanation within the (;AA, as enturcement provisions within requested
Iegislatiun is restricted to either a "peace otticer' ur"puflue utricer.
The CAA does riot differentiate between "officer" appuinted under s.zg (develupmentr natural
hazard regalmiuns) a,id s.29 (CA uwned lands). It wuuld be advantageous to have all "uffiuerb"
appointed under the CAA defined as "peace officers", and further define ufficera appointed
under s.29 have "the power and authority of a member of the Ontario Provincial Police within a
conservation area for the purposes of the Liquor Licence Act, Off -Road Vehicles Act,
Motorized Snow Vehicles Act and provisions of the Highway Traffic Act". This would provide
opportunities tar the Ministry to increase class designation opportunities to CA s.29 "officers" to
include this additional authority ana provide tar the entorcement of certain provisions of
legislation. Upportunities would exist Tor the Province to work with (;As (i.e. conservation
untario's Reyalatoiy cumpliance cummittee) to develop policies, procedures and training
requirements with relatiun to the enhanced ieyislative entorcement initiatives and tools.
"Peace Offiuer", as defined ander the Criminal nude Fit Canada, identities a pulite unicer,
puliue constable, bailiff, constable, or orhee, uersvn emuluve0 tu, the ure5ef variyn ana
maintenai,ce of - — or fur the serviue or execution of uivii pruuess. l Rib definition
encompasses the responsibilities of CA officers designated under s.29 of the CAA, and in the
absence of a clear "officer" definition within the CAA, CA officers cannot rely on this broad
definition when fulfilling their responsibilities, as it is open to interpretation by partnering
ioronto anti Region Con.rrvatlon AutRorlty 1 7
agepniec, nffepdiog parties and defense aftnrpeVq, and significantly limits enfnrr.Pment and
cnmpllance prntPctions within nur ennsPNation araas.
Summary:
Conservation Authority owned lands are available to the public for active recreational
Opportunities within conservation areas and campgrounds, utilized by familieQ fnr snrial
Pvenfs, fishing, swimming, hnating and ramping, fn passives nutdnnr nppnrtunjfias within larger,
More rp.MnfP land tracts and wildlife areas, popular for hiking, photography and hirdwatching.
These lands are a well -used reCnurce by numemuc user groups and the- geme-ral puhlin due to
the proximity to mnre populous centers, and nccurrPnr.Ps which endanger puhlic and staff
safety and cause significant damage to the natural environment are occurring more freguently.
Public expectations exist for CA officers, appointed under s.29, to appropriately address
conservation land offences, which are factually restrictive under our current legislation.
RA nffirerc appointed under the CAA are full time. or long term rnntrarf empinyees within nur
agencies, and the requested ameodments to the CAA, along with the ndditinn of nther relevant
IPgislatiVe authnri}y, will P.nsurP sPNinPs are provided to adPgua}Ply rP.spnnd to the0PP.ds of
the puhiic and the protgctinn of these lands. ThP additional authorities rPguested, as Outlined
within the attached appendix, will suhstantially improve compliance initiatives, ensure public
and CA officer safety, and effectively deter undesirable activities and behaviors on our lands:
To,o^to a^ -d QggiL,. Coope^,atioo Authority I a
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Turuntu and Regiun
Conservation
Authurity
August 27; 2019
BY E-MAIL ONLY (pluauntariu.ua
Carolyn O'Neill
Gnat EaRcs Of v
Ministry ut the Envirunment, Cunservatiun aria PaiRs
40 5t Clair Avenue West. Floor 10
i urunw, UN
M4V 1 M2
Ucar Ids. U'IQclll
Re: Canada -Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health
(EKU irUItP-U7`Jti)
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Ministry of Environment, Cunscrvatiun ana ParKa
Envi unmental Kegisby pustiny un the prupused new Ganaaa-Untariu Ayremiient on Groat Cakes
water Quality and Ecosystem Fealth (COA).
1 uruntu and Reyiun Gunsvrvatiun Autfiurity (1 RGA) undertakes a number of rules affecting the health
of the Great Cakes within its watershed-6ased jurisdiction: as a public commenting Body under the
Planning Ac? and Envir-vrnmvntal Asoeo-smvnl Acr, as a ngulatu of aevclvpmunt under Tne
GVnJtAvatiun A[7MU[iffw-S AUI, a prupunent ut resturatiun, remediatiun and reurcatiunai use prujects on
TRCA-owned or managed lands, and as a resource management agency and service provider to
member monidpaRie* ana uthcr pul%� a-yenGcb. i hese rules a, c in adaitivn to envirunmvntal
eduuatiun, stewardsfiip and outreach services. i RCA and its pafineis strive to help communities
understand: look after and enjoy the natural environment and to increase residents' and businesses'
awareness of fluua ana crusiun Ilazaras that uaa,, t1ircatcn people, property and intrastrocture.
Purpose of tfie Update
vve unavrtana tMc L;aFiadian ana Untariu-yuvernments rcuuynizv tnc nava to Strwi iythen effurts to
address new and continuing threats to Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health: including
aquatic invasive species, excessive nutrients, harmful pollutants, discharges from vessels, climate
�nanye a, id the IVss or Maoitats and spedes.
Ecosystem Approach
I RGA suppufts the prupused update to the CUA and appreciates that it is premisea vn the beliet that
Great Lakes water quality and ecosystem health cannot be achieved by addressing individual threats
in isolation, but rather depends upon the application of an ecosystem appra�h that oaansscs
iiiaivldually and cumulatively all sudrees uT strctb to the Cleat LURcs (page :i uT the draft CUA). 1 fiere
is a strong alignment with conservation authorities' ecosystem approach and watershed -based work
that serves to mitigate for the impacts of urbanization and climate chane on Me Great EaRc5 ana
impruves ecosystem health. Un a collective basis, uunservatiun authorities and them paftneis
environmental protection and management of rivers; wetlands and headwaters provide downstream
benefits to the Great Lakes, including those for water qoality, habitat ana iv�featiun.
416.66t.uo00 I F: 41&&.6898 I inrO(mtn:a.on.ca 1 101 Encfianye Avenue, Vaughan, ON L4K 5R6 i www.trca.ca
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Participation by Conservation Authorities
In the PMViDCP s Great I akps Strategy and the. Great I akes Ern -taction Act, conservation authorities
(('.Ar) aw named ac asepntjal partnP[e in fho iMpipmantatinn of p[no[ams and D[njwl initiatives to
protect and improve the health of the Great Lakes. With CAs as partners. the Province has initiated
nUtrpach and guidaoce no integrated stnrmwate[ DraMjres, environmental farm plans, habitat
restoration and anvj[nnmantal mnpitn[ing, TRCA wn[ks in rnnrtPrt with fPdPraI ornvjnrial and
municipal governments on aguatic and terrestrial shoreline restoration projects, as do many of the
rAs no the Great Lakes. Therefore, as local watershed and partnership agencies, CAs are well-
pnsitinned to play a key rnlo in many of the artions jdantjfiPd in the rOA, This Is particularly the Casa
for the Greater Golden Horseshoe CAs with Great Lakes shorelines and In -take Protection Zones.
such as TRCA's jurisdiction, where the impacts of urbanization and the compounding effects of
climate change are arutely felt.
TRCA and the COA
the draft COA rnntains many initiatives that align with IRCA's Stratagjc Plan, husiness units and
rutzent program delivery, the Inrnntn and Rag inn Ramad'ral Ai'tlnn Plan (RAP) je thg largest prngrm
currently supported by COA. TRCA administers the RAP for the Toronto Area of Concern (AOC) as
part of a 5 -year (9ni F; 7?Wn), $9,5 million agreement with Fnvirnnment and Climate Change Canada
and tha Uinistry rf Enyicnnmant, r.mcpn[atinn and Padre (matching funding). In add'Itinn to habitat
restoration work, through development and infrastructure planning processes. TRCA staff work with
muniripalities and proponents to ensure restoration is directed toward strategic areas to address RAP
p[in[itiee in the Inrnntn AOC,
Close working relationships with provincial staff have also been key to past COA partnecehipe, Eor
your reference, we have attached a listing of TRCA programs, partnerships and interests that
ront[ihUtp to arhiPving the gnajs of the rOA (Appendix 1). While the list may not he exhaUstiva, it
makes evident TRCA programs' significant con_t[ibution_ In mpetjng fedaral and provincial ohjectivae
for Great Lakes water guality and ecosystem health.
Renewed Focus no Lake Ontarin
IRrA wrngnjvac the importance of the many naw actiuitipe nutllnad in the draft rOA fn[ I akin Onta[in
and is pleased to see a renewed focus on the Lake given that the previous COA focused mainly on
I akin Frjp, The renin -wed fnr.Us is timely as it aligns with Major Prnonmir, growth pressures
axparianced in the rwater r:niden Elnrepehna. Ihie is a kay imprnvPmpnt givan that sriantifin
understanding learned. and policy positions developed for Lake Erie (and as well for Lake Simcoe and
Georgian Bay) may not he directly transferable to Lake Ontario. Therefore, we appreciate that the
new COA and the new draft I aka Action ManagpmeDt Plan (I AQP) for I akin Ontario recngnizP the
key role for Lake Ontario's science community to investigate the lake and make "lake specific"
recommendations to COA Executive Committee and the LAMP Committee.
Implementing Mechanisms
Although TRCA supports the proposed actions and goals ('Results") in the COA, we find that many
artinns lack eperiflrs no implpmPntatinn. En[ example., phrases such as wn[k with", 'prmmnte', `build
on" are Used I Ut the mechanisms for triggering the effect of thace artinne nn the_ ground (with
implications for water guality and ecosystem health) are not referenced. Therefore, the COA could
benefit from snma indication of the tools each level of gnvernment, other agencies and partners might
Uca to imDIPMPn! the impnoant nnmmitmants dpsrrihad, which in turn would in_dirate the Ipad and
supporting ministry or department. If not stipulated within each action or set of actions, this could be
stated in a praface or en appendix to the COA to outline legislation, policies and regulations related to
tha AnnpY ftif-.A. where noollnahip, En[ PYAMole., under Annex.l. Wastewater and gtnrmwRtar
component, the Ontario Water Resources Act- section 53 Certificates of Approval, could be cited as
To''nnto and oaeioo Coo-a—atin_a Authority 17
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
an example of an implementing mechanism, supported by technical guidance of a comprehensive
update to the provincial Sturmwater Management Planning and uesigii! Manual (zuus).
Other mechanisms for implementation of commitments made in the COA may be through land use
planning pulicy and infrastructure planning. Inuluaing retercnce to the planning pruuess,
environmental assessment process and intrastructore master planning would better emphasize the
cunnczion b-aiwccn cuntinucd lana dcvclopmcnt and water quality and ecosystem health. Annex o,
Areas of Gonuern, makes this connection in its preamble, bot this should be a nwr prevalent theme
throughout the GOA. For example, there could be an upfront commitment in the GOA for the Province
to promote the environmental sections ut the Provincial Policy ;itacment to recognize the IinR
between, not only protection of coastal natural heritage, but the importance of natural heritage system
planning throughout watersheds for downstream benefits to the Great Cakes.
1 his approach could also be taken for tederal and provincial support in the GOA of the Suurue
Protection Plans under the Clean Water Act. It could be emphasized that Canada and Ontario support
municipal implementation QT I% Juuruc Prutcutiun Plans Tur the wntril5otiun it maRes to IaRa ficaltfi,
particularly for those municipalities with Intake Protection Lones in the Great CaKes.
I He exercise of listing key mccfianisms cuula also serve as a yap analysis of surts, given that it may
reveal where actions from the GOA do not have an existing pathway for implementation. A partner
survey may also be helpful to determine if other agencies are already working in the same areas and
are able to pool resuurues to avuld duplicative i antl ct that roc crnuicncics tur the actiui is It i the GUA.
Implementing Fending
t-urther to the abuve, resources and tut tding are crucial for sbpportiny agencies that have the
demonstrated ability to leverage partnerships and other types of collaboration to help achieve the
actions in tfic GOA. ittacea, I ROA's ana other levels of yovsvmmcnt5' ability to deliver on the
partnerships reterenced in the new GUA will depend upon the availability of resuarces. Past I RGA
program contributions were undertaken in collaboration: and with the financial support, of municipal:
pruvinciaal, Tcocrrl, and nun-'yavF=mmcnt parthcrs.
For partnerships to succeed, it may be beneficial for staff from all levels of government to attend
meetings and lnTut matlun exofianyes. vvMiie ifiore Rave occn hmltatiuns un travel impooca Uy
governments, there should be cunsideration yuiny turward to cunsioer certain exceptions to allow
travel within the Great Cakes area. This would be especially important for projects that require inter-
agency and inter-yuvernmental wuperatiun among sul5ject manor experts.
Recent shifts in support at the provincial level to conservation authorities and municipal partners may
Have an impact un our abilities to auntriouto to the partnerships idcntiTicd in the GOA. It is impufiant
that the Province recognize the commitments made when it is developing its open for business policy
and economic and growth management strategies.
TRCA comments and Recommendations
TRCA staff with technical expertise in each Annex have reviewed the draft COA and have provided
detailed comments and editorial suggestluns in the anaufiad tat5le (AppendiA z). In uonsiaeratiun -UT
these and of the general comments above: TRGA makes the following recommendations for the
minist, y's wnsiduratiun:
GOA employs a holistic lens and reflects a watershed approach to supporting lake health* this
appru'M snuula be replicated in the update.
i oronta ante Region CDs �crtsaLIOR AatRority I s
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Introduce n certinn nr an appandiY nn implementation mechanisms, targeted timelines and
funding;
That the connection between land development and lake water guality and ecosystem health
he a more prevalent theme throughout the COA;
Maintain the ability of the current COA to enrnurage pnrtnPrchlpc hPtWeen agenrjec and the
leveraging of fuodc fnr greater impart:
• Fncure a enntinijiijim of currant and Inog-term pmgram funding fnr =RRA and
agencies/ministries with whom we collaborate to deliver an COA actions;
• make new funding available in support of land-based actions such as watershed planning,
stewardship and restoration (perhaps under the Western Lake Ontario Land to Lake Initiative).
Maintain an ongoing commitment to the de-lisfipg of Areas of Cnncern and to monitoring,
community engagement, and maintenanre fnllnwipg de-ll%tjng.
We trust that the above and the two detailed appendices are clear and of assistance. Thank you once
again for the opportunity to provide input on the_ prnpnced pew (;resat I akes ranada-Ontarin
AgrPPment, Rhnuld Vnu haue any guectjnnc nr Wich to dicrucc any of the ahnu_e. Dleace rnntart the
undersigned at 416.667.6290 or at john.mackenzie@trca.ca.
GjncerelY
Jnhp Mar.Kan7iP, M..Rr.,(PI), Mr.IP, RPP
chief Executive Officer
rr; (hV a -mall nnly):
Environment and Climate Change Canada: ec.grandslacs-greatlakes.ec@canada.ca
IRr.A; rhandra Rharmn, rtirertnr, Rnmmunity Engagement and OUtrearh
Moranne McDonnell. Director. Restoration and Infrastructure
RamePr Dhalla, nlrertnr, Develnpment and FnginPerjDg ServjrA
I aerie dPlgnn, nirertnr, Pnljcy Planning
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 1 4
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Appendix 1
TRCA Programs Contributing to the Canada -Ontario Agreement on Great Calces Water Quality
and Ecosystem Health
ANNEX 1: NUTRIENTS
PuRPvsE: To address the issue of excess nutrients and reduce harmful and nuisance algal blooms.
SUMMARY vi ANNEx
• The reasons for the occurrence of algal blooms are now more complex than in past decades. The
introduction of invasive species such as zebra and quagga mussels and round gobies, changes in
agricultural production oyaremu. lncreaned arbani�ation, and climate change are all contributing
factors.
• The Great Lakes are currently experiencing nutrient levels that impair human use and result
in harmful effects on ecosystem functions. This Annex recognizes that the continued
environmental, social and economic health of the Great Lakes basin requires the effective and
efficient management of natriemt from ho,,,a., acti„ities.
It aaare>3ea the need for ;mproved nndernranding of n„ trie,a i»ue� while continuing to de„elop
and promote actions to improve nutrient management and to reduce inputs from wastewater and
stormwater.
TRCA INVOLVEMENT
• TRCA is participating in tributary loading studies that are contributing to improved knowledge and
understanding of phosphorus sources, the forms of phosphorus being discharge to Lake Ontario
and thei, zea.onal character6tica.
I RGA 6 monitoring nearahure and coastal marah wate' yoaGLy in Aja,. —Pickering nearnhure area
with support from York and Durham Regions and MECP and ECCC.
• I RCA collaborated in water quality studies looking at eutrophication issues in the Toronto Harbour.
I RCA helping City of I oronto with wet weather flow study (tributary & watershed monitoring).
I RCA helping IVIECP and tCCC with monitoring of nuisance algae and lakebed biota in Lake Ontario.
I RSA newt generation of watershed studies- e.g. the Carruthers will promote local actions to
improve nutrient management in both urban and rural areas.
• STEP program offers significant advancements in LID and stormwater technology.
• TRCA has Rural Clean water, restoration and stewardship programs that address sources of
nutrients.
• Regional Watershed Monitoring Network & Watershed Report Cards & RWMN Program Reporting
document current nutrient conditions and trends witfiin tRe I RCA.
• TRCA provides plan input and review services related to development in regulated areas, including
doggy off leash park>. Dog waate can be a cuncibotor to nutrient loading in our waterzhedz.
Particularly in the City of Toronto, where these facilities are often located within valleylands. TRCA
staff work with municipal staff to ensure appropriate site drainage and servicing schedules,
including flushing infrastructure, to minimize nutrient impacts on the watercourses.
TRCA INTERESTS
• More work needs to be done on Lake Ontario.
There is a lot of scientific work needed to establish it additional nutrient reduction targets are
needed for Lake Unta, it)
• I hese 3tudie� nee8 to conwder ecology of the lake and fiaherie> it aupport�.
• I RCA i� ;nterebtea in being part of this target netting effort when the fuem torn to Lake Ontario.
• I Rt -A propo>ing Citi<en science algae watch to document current condition. and hot spot..
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
• TRCA's Next Generation Watershed Plans for its watersheds will focus on establishing better land
to lake interactions and provide guidance on policy recommendations, stakeholder and community
actions. We need to work closely with the Provincial and Federal government to make sure COA
Goals are addressed.
ANNEX 2: HARMFUL POLLUTANTS
PURPOSE: To guide cooperative and coordinated actions to reduce or eliminate harmful pollutants into the
Great Lakes Basin.
SUMMARY OF ANNEX:
• Under the 1994 Canada -Ontario Agreement, specific harmful pollutants were targeted for action:
Y Tier I Substances (chemicals targeted for virtual elimination or zero discharge from sources
within the Great Lakes as well as for global efforts to eliminate out -of -basin sources)
➢ Tier II Substances (chemicals that had the potential for widespread impacts in the Great
Lakes or were already causing local adverse impacts).
• Canada and Ontario are actively engaged in programs and initiatives designed to assess and
manage the risks posed by certain chemicals to human health and the environment.
• Federal — Chemical Management Plan, National Pollutant Release Inventory, Stockholm
Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, Convention on Long -Range Transboundary
Air Pollution.
• Ontario — Toxics Reduction Act, 2009, Toxics Reduction Strategy, local air quality
regulations
COMMITMENTS:
1) Complete a status report of chemicals identified as Tier I and Tier II substances;
2) Establish a Canada -Ontario Chemicals Management Committee;
3) Establish a process to identify Chemicals of Concern in the Great Lakes;
4) To cooperate on specific research, monitoring, surveillance, and risk management actions for these
Chemicals of Concern; and
5) Take actions to reduce risks and impacts from environmental emergencies and spills, and from
stormwater and wastewater contaminant loadings.
TRCA INVOLVEMENT:
• TRCA supports the work of municipalities and other stakeholders to increase diversion of materials
containing Tier I and Tier II substances from the waste stream (i.e., Partners in Project Green);
• Continues education and outreach initiatives and activities to reduce releases of legacy substances
through the promotion of environmentally sound practices and pollution prevention measures
(i.e., Children's Water Festival participation).
• Supports and enhances stewardship programs to improve waste diversion, take -back and proper
disposal of harmful pollutants (i.e., General education and outreach, policy implementation under
the CTC Source Protection Plan);
• Works with academia, industry, municipalities and stakeholders to promote the development of
green technologies and activities supporting green chemistry (i.e., Sustainable Technologies
Evaluation Program);
• Continues to cooperate on activities to support the prevention of, preparedness for, response to
and recovery from environmental emergencies and spills in the Great Lakes basin (i.e.,
Collaboration on implementation of CTC Source Protection Plan Policies related to Lake Ontario
with the City of Toronto, Durham Region, Peel Region, and the Ministry of the Environment,
Conservation and Parks.
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
• Monitors the performance and effectiveness of stormwater and green infrastructure projects and
communicate results (i.e., Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program, Sustainable
Neighbourhoods); and
= CTC Source Protection Plan requires the Province to ieview, amend or estabiisfi Environme tai
t.ampllanCE ApprOvalz to e,.sure appropriate terms and conditions are in place to prevent a
sewage treatment plant by-pass discharge to surface water or sewage treatment plant effluent as
a result of a disinfection interruption at a Waste Water Treatment Plant (W WTP Diffuser).
• TRCA provides plan input and review services related to development in regulated areas, including
roads, parking lots and salt storage facilities. Salt is a major contributo to watercour>e tUAicityin
ear water.hed.. 1 RCA.taff work with municipal staff to ensure appropriate site/road drainage to
minimize salt impacts on the watercourses.
• TRCA will continue to work with municipal and provincial agencies to develop strategies and
policies to minimize salt runoff to watercourses and wetlands, including appropriate draining and
buffers.
ANNEx 3: DISCHARGES FROM VESSEES
PURPOSE: To ensure that discharges from vessels do not adversely impact the Great Lakes.
SUMMARY OF ANNEX:
• i he federal rarliament has exclusive jurisdiction over navigation and shipping. Existing laws,
regulations, regulatory programs, inspection protocols and enforcement regimes are designed to
address threats to the Great Lakes from vessel discfiarges.
The Canada -United States Great Lakes Water Duality Agreement includes commitment. to protect
the Great [ake. from the discharge of balla>t water_ oil_ ha.ardous polluting substances, garbage,
wastewater, sewage, AIS, pathogens, and antifouling systems.
• I he most recent binational report on Great Lakes water quality (April 2012) indicated that, with
the exception of AIS found in ballast water, the impact on the Great Lakes from these (potential)
discharges is low.
COMMITMENTS:
e) Aetion> to continue implementing epi.ting balla.t water and discharge requirements;
i) To advance new treatment technologies and control measures for AIS, and
8) To ensure that canals and waterways are considered in measures to prevent and control AIS.
TRCA INVULVEM[NT:
• The Lake Ontario Collaborative Group (Toronto, Durham, Peel, MECP) is considering discharges
from vessels as an alternative spill scenario land impact on municipal SrinRing water intakeb
drawing water from lake Ontario) to inve>tigate as an update to the C I C Source Protection Plan.
ANNEx 4: AREAS OF CONCERN
PURPOSE: To restore water quality and ecosystem health in Areas of Concern (AOCs) and includes the goals
of completing priority actions for delisting in five -goal i AOCs.
• Trca Involvement:
• TRCA administers the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan for the Toronto Area of Concern
(AOC).
= Toronto is one of the 43 original AOCs identified in the mid -80s which were more impaired tfian
otfier .ite. arouna the heat [ake.. Each AOC a Remedial Action Plan to addre»>pecific
impairments (called ueneficial use impairments or BUls).
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
• Ontario has de -listed three AOCs, has 3 "Goal 1" or high priority AOCs outlined in COA, and the
remaining are "Goal 2" AOCs. Toronto is currently a "Goal 2" AOC.
• TRCA has a 5 year (2015-2020), $2.5 million agreement with ECCC and MECP (matching funding)
for administration of the Toronto RAP.
• Toronto has re -designated 4 BUIS— fish deformities, degradation of benthos, restrictions on
dredging, bird deformities. A re -designation report for the aesthetic BUI is nearly complete and will
be submitted to ECCC and MECP by the end of March.
• Actions taken to improve the Toronto AOC have resulted in:
• More swimmable beaches - 8 of 11 beaches are now Blue Flag certified.
• Improved water quality — Phosphorous levels along the waterfront now meet RAP targets.
• Decrease in contaminants in fish so that there are no longer restrictions on consumption for most
fish.
• Improved aesthetic conditions of watercourses and the waterfront.
• Protection and creation of fish and wildlife habitats along the Toronto waterfront and Watersheds
(e.g. Tommy Thompson Park wetlands, Mimico Waterfront Park, Spadina Quay Claireville
Conservation Area and Rouge National Urban Park.)
• The Toronto Waterfront Aquatic Habitat Restoration Strategy (TWAHRS) was developed by TRCA in
partnership with MNR and DFO, and in consultation with the City of Toronto and Waterfront
Toronto to guide Toronto AOC restoration initiatives and address the fish and wildlife habitat and
populations Beneficial Use Impairments (BUls) under the RAP. The Strategy offers an integrated
resource planning approach to achieve a net gain in aquatic habitat on the Toronto waterfront and
provides a framework for restoration of these habitats.
• In 2007, Aquatic Habitat Toronto (TWAHRS Implementation Team) was established to provide the
opportunity for waterfront project proponents to work with the relevant resource management
agencies in a more time and cost-effective manner, and to apply science to support sustainable
waterfront development. The Implementation Team includes representatives from TRCA, MNR,
DFO, City of Toronto, and Waterfront Toronto. The main objective of the Implementation Team is
to ensure that the approval of waterfront projects facilitate strategic improvements to aquatic
habitat by providing information on waterfront environmental conditions, provide design advice to
realize aquatic habitat improvements, and help coordinate the regulatory review and approval of
the project.
• TRCA provides plan input and review services related to infrastructure and land development in
regulated areas. TRCA staff work with municipalities and developers to avoid, minimize, restore or
compensate for impacts related to the natural heritage system in our jurisdiction.
TRCA INTERESTS:
• Continue to fund AOC programs and the associated RAPS. We are very close to de -listing (2025)
and it is worthwhile to keep funding the RAPS to address the 6 remaining impairments (2 of which
are in the process of being re -assessed).
• Toronto is currently a "Goal 2" AOC, but given the improvements we've made and our work plans
for the next 5 years, we could recommend moving up to a "Goal 1" AOC.
• Through the infrastructure and land use development processes, TRCA planning staff work with
TRCA Restoration and Infrastructure staff to ensure restoration and compensation requirements
are directed toward strategic areas to address RAP AOC areas of interest.
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
ANNEX W CAKEWIDE MANAUEMENT
PURPOSE: I o advance restoration, protection and conservation of the Great Cakes through collaboration
among jurisdictions domestically and binationally and with the Great Lakes community on a lake -by -lake
basis.
SUMMARY uF ANNEX:
CaRewlde Action and Management Planb (CAMPS) provide a mechanism to an�e� and report on
the state of the ecosystem, identify science and management priorities, conduct studies and
Outreach activities, and identify the need for and facilitate further action. It also contains commitments to
develop Lake Ecosystem Objectives, a new nearshore framework, and consult and cooperate with the
Great Cake community to a» e> the btatas of each Great Cake and addre» environmental qtr»urn on a
lakewide scale.
The nearshore areas of the Great Lakes have great biological diversity, provide numerous
benefit, and are the focal point foF human interaction with the Cakes bot are also subject to
tremendous human impact. The Great Lakes are Ontario's primary source of drinking water.
COMMITMENTS.
To further assess and address threats to sources of drinking water in connection
with efforts under Ontario's Clean Watet Act z006 as well as tnFoogn misting reneral policie
and program..
I RCA INVOLVEMENT:
• I RCA varticipatca on both Cake Ci tai io CAIVIY Ma,.agement Committee and working Group.
• CAMP Help to adore» program need. Durham Region (whom water.hed a,.d waterf, Ont are
outside of the Toronto AOC).
• Through CAMP Annex, lakewide issues such as reappearance of Cladophora can be best
addressed.
• TRCA staff contribute to preparation of annual reports and participated in drafting new 5 Year
LAMP Management Plan document
• TRCA contributed to developed of Lake Ecosystem Objectives for Lake Ontario
• Participated in development of nearshore framework and will help support its application in Lake
Ontario.
Relped develop western Cake Untario Cana to LaRc initiat ve> tRat connect land aetivltie> ana
management actions by CA and municipalities with the health of Lake Ontario
One of >c„eral policies in the Credit valley — i oronto and Region — Central Cake Ontario (CTC)
Source Protection Plan (SPP) is to encourage collaboration on protecting our shared drinking water
sources: and raise the profile of the importance of Lake Ontario as a source of drinking water for
Ontario residents. I RCA Is a partner in engaging witR municipal, provincial. aativ al. ana
international stakeholders on this outreach.
I oronco and Region noarce Protection Authority in collaboration with the CTC Source Protection
Committee has delineated vulnerable areas around the drinking water intakes on Lake Ontario
which fall within the conservation authority's jurisdiction.
• TRCA is a participant on the Lake Ontario Collaborative Group, a partnership between the Ministry
or tRe Envito,ement, Con3ervation ana ParRs, Environment ana Llimate Change Canada, the Region
of Peel_ City of I oronco, and Durham Region, which focuses on the implementation of policies from
the CTC SPP intended to protect Lake Ontario as a source of drinking water. Some of the activities
that this group is engaged in includes:
• bharing information about Cake Ontario circulation and water yaality monitoring; and
a Sharing environmental monitoring data and using modelling to inform research on topics
such as, but not limited to:
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
a) the efferti,reness of risk management measures and spill contingency measures:
b) cumulative impacts of point and 1300-12oint courrec of rootaMiva0tc o0 Dearchore water
quality; and
c) the effectiveness of Source Protection Plan policies in reducing the risk related to
pathogen._ (out limited to F. roll). including identifying the Dathngenc and the recgertive
densities at different times; assessing the associated risk at intakes due to pathogens in
non -disinfected wastewater and other known specific sources of these pathogens: and
undertaking guaotitative Mirrobial rick ac_ceccmeotc, uciog a strurtured recearrh and
development design (such as based on the protocols established by the US FRA), to assess
the threat and adequacy of existing treatment on a plant -by -plant basis.
• To protect drinking water sources on Lake Ontario from potential spills along highways, shipping
lanes and railvwavc. the rTr gee regLire5 tfiat ron_tioeen_cv glans incorporate risk reduction and
mitigation measures, where appropriate.
A water budget has been completed across TRrA's entire jilrisdiction to compiv with the
requirements of the Clean Water Act, 2006. This information will augment the understanding of
the ...ater budget for the entire Great Lakes basin.
TRCA INTERECTC:
• New resources are needed to support TRCA in delivery of programs and services as a LAMP
partner. Contributions to date come largely through municipal funding partnerships.
ANNEX 6: INVASIVE SPECIES
PURPOSE: To ensure cooperative and coordinated efforts to reduce the threat of aquatic invasive species to
treat_ I akec water guality and eroc_vctem health. It includes a commitment to understand and respond to
the potential for new or expanded ranges of Aquatic lovasive ceeriec in the great i akec.
TRCA INVnLVEMENT
• Under contract with DFO TRCA implements the Toronto Area portion of the Asian Carp Surveillance Program.
It s a strategic monitoring program which targets Asian Carps along the Toronto Waterfront. The scope of
the program is two-foid. targeting areas (al that are habitats that are suspected to have high potential for
sustaining Asian Carps. and (b) where Asian Carps have been reported during past monitoring efforts. With
these data. TRCA. its partners and provincial and federal agencies will be better equipped to reduce the
threat of the Lake Ontario ecosystem destruction by the highly invasive Asian Carps as well as implement an
adaptive management approach of aquatic habitats. particularly coastal wetlands.
• Under contract with DFO TRCA implements the Toronto Area trapping portion of the Sea i amprev routral
program. This project involves operating Sea I amprey traps in the Humber River and n iffins r reek during
the Lamprey seasonal migration upstream (April - lune). Trap operation iovolvec removal and rouuts of
Lamprey. performing mark and recapture on selected individuals, and identifiratiou of by-ratrh fish.
• TRfA provide. elan input and review .ervire• related to development in regulated area.. Wherever Dnccihle.
TRfA rypportc mnniripalitiec and other ageoriec in the removal of invasive .eerie. and iornrgngtec the
henefitc of curh removal. in negotiations for natural heritage rectoration or rumpe139tin13.
ANNEX T: HABITAT & rPECIES
PURpncE: To continue effortc to restore, grotert and rQocenre the recilieure of rreat i akec native cgeriec
and their habitats.
TRCA INVOLVFMFNT:
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
•
ME RAP aria GCSF (G. eat LaRe sastainability Fund) ha.e supported a large number of strategic habitat
re>toration project including: Coa.tal wedaria Creation )e.g. Cell e, Cell i, etc), water.h'ca signature
wetlanab (McKlicRael bailer -y. iuronto Goo). RaSitat Regeneration IProre»or> Ca Re, Ramaer Bay rarR,
Toronto Ibldndb). I hebe projectb Have levered baBbtantial Criancial project bapport including an i ,vebtment
for TTP Cell 2 from Coca Cola Canada in a Private Public partnenfiip valued over 3 million dollen.
i RCA hag developed and delivered over 5.y million dollar of brrategic habitat restoration projects
since 2014.
• TWAHRS Fish Habitat Assessment -Assess restoration and rehabilitation efforts to aquatic habitat along the
Toronto Waterfront. Specifically, this includes evaluating the effectiveness of restoration techniques from
the Toronto Waterfront Aquatic Habitat Restoration Strategy (TWAHRS) compendium of restoration
techniques. i his will be accomplished by calculating rehabilitation area by habitat type
(embayment/wetland, open coast and rivermouth), restoration sites. Aquatic Habitat Toronto (AHT),
Fisheries and uceans Canada (OFO), Environment Canada and Climate Change (ECCC), Ministry of Natural
Re.oarce. and Forestry (MRRF), City of Toronto, Ports ioronco and waterfront ioroma.
• Rap ana GDF Rab bopportea the development ana aelive yy are a nomder or btrategic naoitat planning
initlativeb irnclading: the Integrated Rebturation Plan (IRP) tar the I RLA watM11M. IRM .trategic RaBitat
planning Rab aetinea prioriticea rebtoratiun activitieb including rorebt cover. wetlana, and riparian Raoitatb
on a watershed catcfiment bdbib. Toronto RaBitat Banging Development ana aelive, y at a DFD eaay
habitat banking scheme to improve regulatory approval process tar projectb. ' 6hing ire roar Backyard -An
Urban Recreational Fisheries Strategy for the LaRe Ontario Northwest watertrunt" which tobterea a 5z.5
million investment from the City of Toronto to improve waterfront fishing access. These Strategic watersfied
planning initiatives supports annex 4, 9 and 10
RAP and GCsF funding s,.pported the development of the i Rt.A i errestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy
- a .trategy that i-aentifiea the a ... oarit and distribution of habitat required to protect and restore
Bioal.er.ity witnin the I Rt.Ajuri.diedun. the sc"ence and approach to natural heritage planning advanced
through the aevelopntarit are the >trategy na> Relpea to info. m a namaer of I Rut and municipal ecosystem
manageiTieiQ ana lana a.e planning initiate. and Re. Agnificestly contridarea to impro.ed restoration,
protection ana management or the natural >y.tem. I R6 a6o help»appart Anew 4 ana iu
• Urban developed Has Been the major driver of fiaBitat ana bpecies lobs within the I RCA joribaiction. RAP and
GLFS funding have supported the development of a nomBer at technical guidance too6 to into m lana abe
planning, helping to ensure natural features and systems are protected through the land use planning
process. The suite of wetland water balance guideline documents as well as the guideline tar determining
ecosystem compensation have both been developed with support from RAP and GLFS funding. This also
helps support Annex 4 and 10.
• untarlo Climate Cunson:ivm secretariat supports Anne• y by convening stakeholders to discuss resilience
IninRing and climate change valrieraMity Be.t practice. a..ociated with coastal wetlands.
• Through the TRCA plan input and review process, i RCA supports co5bervation and rebtaration of
native bpecieb throughout aur watershed for both infrastructure and land use development
projects.
TRCA INTERESTS:
• Advance progress on priority actions for the loss of fish and wildlife habitat a od the degradation of tisfi ana
wildlife populations Beneficial Use Impairments. This project will evaluate the effectiveness of restoration
efforts in the Toronto AOC by TRCA that have been implemented to support priority projects from the
TWAHRS.
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
ANNEX 8: GROUNDWATER QUALITY
PURPOSE: To gain abetter understanding of how groundwater influences Great Lakes water quality and
ecosystem health, and to identify priority areas for future action.
SUMMARY OF ANNEX:
• Groundwater may represent as much as 50 percent of the water entering the Great Lakes, either
directly (via groundwater discharge along the coasts) or indirectly (via discharge into rivers and
streams that then discharge into the lakes).
• Groundwater -based contaminants and excessive nutrients can impair the quality of the waters of
the Great Lakes, particularly the nearshore region, with potential effects on aquatic species and
recreational waters.
• Groundwater quality in the Great Lakes is linked to the successful delivery of key commitments in
other Annexes, including Areas of Concern, Lakewide Management, Harmful Pollutants, Nutrients,
and Habitat and Species.
COMMITMENTS:
1) To develop a binational state of Groundwater Science Report;
2) Create an interagency groundwater issues team;
3) Identify priorities for future research, and
4) Identify priority areas and sites for monitoring, management or remediation actions to address
groundwater impacts and stressors.
TRCA INVOLVEMENT
• The Groundwater Science Report was released for public review in December 2015 and
Conservation Ontario provided a letter of support.
• TRCA has a representative on the Annex Sub -Committee. This committee continues to work on
development of a groundwater indicator (e.g. nitrates - rural, chlorides - urban) for the Annex 30
science indicators project.
• As a member of the Oak Ridges Moraine Groundwater Program, TRCA has supported the
augmentation of groundwater knowledge.
• Municipally funded YPDT Groundwater program is supported by CLOCA and housed at TRCA. This
program has made significant progress in harmonizing data and models across GTA and can be a
valuable resource forthis Annex.
• TRCA provides plan input and review services related to development in regulated areas. In areas
where groundwater dewatering may impact surficial features such as wetlands and baseflow in
watercourses, and hence their habitats, TRCA requires comprehensive mitigation and monitoring
strategies be developed and employed.
ANNEX 9: CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS
PURPOSE: To build an understanding of climate change impacts and advance integration of knowledge into
Great Lakes adaptation and management strategies.
TRCA INVOLVEMENT:
• TRCA serves as the Secretariat for the Ontario Climate Consortium (OCC). OCC brings together
researchers from some of Ontario's leading academic institutions.
• TRCA /OCC also collaborates with GLISA — Great Lakes Integrated Science Assessment Program
based our of University of Michigan.
• OCC offers support to Annex 9, Climate change Impacts, in identifying climate science knowledge
gaps and convening experts around climate modeling and information at the Great Lakes Basin
scale
• OCCC sits on the Annex 9 Extended Subcommittee (Climate Change Impacts).
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
OCCC provides support to the Development of Great CaReS Annual Climate Summary - (jointly
produced by Anne„ u - Climate Change Impacts and Annex A - Science)
• DCCC al,o provideD climate change related support to Anne. r. Habaat and species, by convening
stakeholders to discuss Resilience Thinking and climate change vulnerability assessment best
practices associated with coastal wetlands.
s The 2017 update to the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act requires proponents to address
impacts to climate change in all assessments. I REA worR5 closely witR proponent to enNure bucR
I Rut INTERESTS:
• Continue to support and inve>t in climate science and research i REA/ vCC.
= Contribution to tRe >-ientific knowledge and understanding of Cake Ontario impact and atrateglea
through local and regional science and actions.
• TRCA is hosting a workshop with environmental assessment practitioners to address climate
change impacts in infrastructure development, thereby ensuring consistency and relevance of
approaches as it relates to TRCA's mandate and interests. TRCA Infrastructure Planning and
Permit will partner with DEC in this rega.d.
ANNEX 10: SIIENLE
PURPOSE: To enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of Great Lakes science activities through planning, cooperation,
coordination and communication.
SUMMARY OF TRCA INVOLVEMENT:
• I RCA s Envi, Emmental monitoring activitia along tRe i oronto ana region watEI`rront are an Important
component of I RCA, Cake Ontario sfioreline monitoring program. unae.stanaing environmental conaitioro
of tRe sfioreli.,e provides sig.,iticant into. mation and input into tfie re>toration project. planning ana
implementation. scientitic intormation i� abed for ettective aecibim, making and to, reporting on the
conditions and progress in achieving environmental objectives and aetining appropriate ana necessar-y
actions. Monitoring focuses on documenting local and regional conditions and Bio -physical attributes of tfie
shoreline. Monitoring activities include fish community surveys, wetland monitoring, bioaccumulation
monitoring, sediment surveys, and aquatic habitat surveys.
i Rt.A in cooperation with Aquatic Habitat i oronto (AFI, ), Fisheries and Oceans Canada ('u FO) Science Group,
and t.arltun uni„er,ity, are continuing a study to monitor the abundance and health of the fish community
inhaoiting the rurontu Harbour i he study ut;li.es acm.stic tags and receivers to allow researchers a more
CEmplEte view or ERE individual fisH activity ERrougRunt tHE entire year. lagged fish are trackeaa throughout
tRe inner and Eater RarDEar. UT I urarru, Incluair,g area tRat amaerrrant Habitat restoratiun. Rloreuver,
tagged rl>n movement. are tracREB By receiver metworRs instailea 0.001! or ERE Iorornm area te.g.,
Hamilton HarBour). proviaing a more complete picture or risR movement a..a Raoitat atili,atior, along tRe
nvrtfl-we>tern coapt vt WE Ontario.
• Near Shore Community Index Netting (NSCIN) assessed tisfi community status for I oronto Harbour— fish
community assessments of the Toronto Harbour were tocused it, tfie areas of Tommy t fiompson Park and
the Toronto Islands. Evidence collected toward maintenance or improvement in IBI scores and aquatic
ecosystem health generally.
i he RAP and G15F recognize the importance of assessing progress towards ecosystem goals and learning
from pat a„pEHEmce. As socR important mvniwring and Evaluation ,tudies have been supported such as
Evaluating ERE Stator of wilaalifE Haaitat Co.,. and Degraded wildlife Populations. i his study developed a
namBer Er Rey recommenaations wr aaa;tivnal aCdO.,. to rmtRer protect vvilalife ana habitat widlin THe
roronto region. IRi, aisv Raps suppulT Anme,. 4 apia r.
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
• The Great I a4es erotectiou Ioitiat^re is currently supoortine the de,,elopment of wetland 4ev performance
indicators. helping to develop a framework for monitoring and reporting on the success of wetland
restoration oroiects. This also helos su000rt Annex 4 and 7.
TRCA INTFRFCTs:
• Provides a critical understanding of ecological conditions associated with our restoration project sites.
• contributes directly to TRrA'S Toronto waterfront Aguatir Habitat Restoration Strategy (TWALIRS)
• rootrihutcc nirertlV to Torootn'c area of rnnrern (RAR nhjertivec)
• Reneflt' the ritY' waterfrnot pe`9tah'atlo^_ Ulan_°. Cnn_trlh Ht'n_e to M12terfrnat Tnrn_nt=' arti.itler in
waterfront develooment and waterfront oark planning.
• Toronto Water Pollution Objectives: Water Quality - meet guidelines for water and sediment quality
water ftuaotity - redure erocioo Imparts no hahltatc and property
• Natural Areas and wildlife - prntert, enhnnre and restore natural features and fuartiooc
• Natural Areas and Wildlife - achieve healthy aquatic communities
• Natural Areas and Wildlife - reduce fish contamination.
• rootrihutec to crientifir Voowledge and undercrandina of environmental health with juricdirtional
hoeodariet and r000ertionc within a regional rontert.
ANNEX 11: eRnMnTING INNn_VATInN
OURPOrE: To create long-term, en%iiroomentallV quctalnable erouomlr Oo_portuoltle< that innorove water
quality and ecological health and contribute to the well-being of the Great Lakes community. It includes
wor4ine with companies to commercialize their new technologies in the water sector/market.
TRCA INVOLVEMENT:
• The annex is aligned with the TRCA strategic plan strategy 1- green the Toronto region's economy.
• Facilitated the market adoption of effective new green building practices and technologies
throughout the jurisdirtion. For evamgle, in partn_erchip with ioductrv. TRrA piloted new
construction technologies at The Living City Campus at Kortright Centre for Conservation;
encouraged the adoption of more sustainable practices and new building technologies in new
de,,eloomeotc (e.e.. TorootL% Waterfrant). and d—iened a ne.•. head offire that demnactratec
leadership in green office building design and construction.
Helped create and strengthen partnerships between public, private, institutions and non-profit
sectors to support the adoption of green infrastructure policy and investments by senior levels of
government arra« the juriedlrtloo through the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition. Fro Llealth
Ontario and the Ontario Climate Consortium.
e Partners in Project Green Fco-lone program is a public-private partnership that works to enhance
adoption of new technologies and turn sustainable practices into economic gains for businesses
• Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program (STEP) Water, a partnership between TRCA, CVC, and
--Ie rimcoe Peeioo CA. has recei,,ed fundiue throueh GLSF. GLRI and the RAR. STFP_ focuses on
technologies within the following key focus areae:
o Urban runoff and low impact development;
o Erosion and Sediment Control;
o Idealthv goilc:
o Salt Management; and
o Protection of Natural Features and Systems.
TRCA INTERESTS:
Continued support of innovation and particularly in the creation of environmentally sustainable
eronomir oogai±un_itiec,
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
ANNEX 1[: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
PURPOSE: I o empower communities By proviaing opportonitie� for 6 dividoah and groupb toe, joy and Relp
take care of the Great lakes.
TRCA INVOLVEMENT:
TRCA serves an expanding population of over 3.5 million citizens across six 18 upper, single and lower tier
municipalities, nine watersheds and Lake Ontario. Community Engagement activities are in large part
undertaken in �upport of I RCA'> btrategic Plan, wate,3ht d and waterfront pla,,�. municipal program ana
multi -partner strategies such as the Remedial Action Plan (RAP) and Canada -Ontario Agreement (COA) on
Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health.
Engagement activities are also focused around specific watershed land uses and stakeholders such
as neighborhoods and business.
• TRCA programs build capacity and community environmental leadership to undertake independent
local action towara3 the improvement ana protection of waternRed ana great IaRe� ReaitR
I RCA engagement ana education program promote po�itive Benavioral cnange tRat Tasters
individual and social health and well-being.
• I hrough a diverse range of engagement programs and activities (listed below) I RLA provide. year-
round opportunities for communities and stakeholders to contribute to the protection and better
understanding of Great Lakes and watersheds:
1) Community -Based Ei,gagement Programs — watersfied and sRoreliFee clean-up, restoration,
citizen -science, learn to fish, sustainable neighbourhoods
2) Education and Training Programs — educational workshops, school programs and day camps
and educational resources and new Canadian outreach.
s) Comma nity/waterbned Engagement Event
4) Public Stakeholder Consultations
5) TRCA Parks and Campgrounds Programs
6) Watershed and Stewardship Committees such as Regional Watershed Alliance and Youth
council
I RCA worR� witn manicipai, provincial aipa federal agencies to proviae aevelopment and
infrastructure review and comment as related to our mandate and interests. I hrough this work,
TRCA planning staff advocate for community and public realm benefits be included in the projects
wherever practicable.
TRCA INTERESTS:
• 1 RCA will continue to proactively 3eeR involvement witR ana outreacR to a Broaa cro»-bection or
the 1 oronto region population to support the goals and objectives of COA and RAP (beyond
delisting of AOC).
ANNEX 13 & 14: METIS & FIRS, NATION ENGAGEMENT
PURPOSE: I a RighligFt tRe interests and importa et role oT Mletis and Fu st Nations as participants in the
restoration, protection and conservation of the Great Lakes. It includes collaborating with Mletis and First
Nations in the delivery of the Agreement and opportunities to collaborate with Meds and First Nations on
traditional knowledge.
TRCA INVVLVEMENT:
TRCA supports the goals of collaborating with First Nations and Metis and enhancing consideration
of tradition al knowleaKe:
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
TRCA endeavors to engage first Nations and Metis Nations through our various programs.
Mandatory engagement through environmental assessment process is a provincially delegated
responsibility. TRCA's mission specific engagement programs have been successful in establishing
excellent relationships with both Metis Nations and First Nation communities. Some of these
programs include, watershed events, promotion of human heritage of TRCA's watersheds and
rivers, healing gardens, archeology etc..
TRCA INTERESTS:
• We encourage senior governments to lead the charge on Metis and First Nations engagement.
• Regional forums, supported by capacity -building funding, would enable conservation authorities to
build local relationships with First Nations and Metis to support mutual watershed -based goals.
• TRCA encourages additional efforts to integrate traditional knowledge and western science into
decision-making on Great Lakes issues.
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Toronto and Region
Conservation
Authority
Appendix 2
TRCA Detailed Comments (August 2019) on the Draft Canada-Ordario Great [aKcs water
uuality and Ecosystem Realffi, (ERuou19-0199)
Derinitiuns
(9) "Great [ages uummonity' — I RUA is pleased to see
conservation authorities are a part of this community along with
municipalities and other staRefiulaers.
0) "Ontario's Environment Plan" is referred to as "the 2018 draft
document"; WE onaortana the Plan was rinal as of lduvember zut6
and uan 6e referred to as such.
Administration of the
(� As a member of the "Great Lakes community', TRCA would be
Ayrement — UUA
pleased to meet with the u0A Execative uummittee and other
Executive committee
mem6ers at roundtable discussions as it relates to oar jurisdiction.
Annex 1: Nutrients
The call for nutrient reductions is a critical component of the
Agreement. i RCA is ai-r active paPtiuipant in inis researafi erruPf.
Should future redactions be required, I RGA supports "ecosystem
considerations' in any nutrient reduction target setting exercise;
given theaiyi iiticance or the recroatiunal TiSfiei y in Cake Ontariu and
the damaging impact of invasive mussels that uhanyed the nutrient
pathways in the Lake.
I RGA Has made significant investments in restoring fish
communities and aquatic habitat in Lake Ontario, which requires a
6alanee in nutrient allucatiun to ensure cuntinuea productivity of this
fishery.
I RGA Mas tfie knuwleage to help target areas far tfiese nutrient
reductions and Have advanced programming to implement urban
and rural nutrient manayemerrt strategies and nest manayement
prautices across our watersfieas.
TRCA agrees there aro a num5er of wrnpleme eta y ii iiiiativus that
wntri6ute to reddciny nutrient luading in the Great CaKes, including
research and monitoring; green infrastructure promotion and
yencrally, imprvemvmo in urban and rural land use and land
management practiues.
I RCA suygests that the aayencleii wur R pianniny inaaae wurKing
with palmers, suufi as moniuipalities and cunservation autfiorities. to
develop watershed plans for key priority watersheds as a means of
ioentifyiny 56wnl w -based Iuual iuvel aUtiuns rellalrea to reduce the
risR at excess nutrients, and wastewater and sturmwater pollution.
As provincial policy requires municipalities to undertake watershed
Ions to inform aavelc mean and inrrastructure planning decisions
T: 416.661.66001 F: 416.661.6898 1 info@lrca.on.ca 1 101 Exchange Avenue, Vaughan, ON L4K 5R6 I wwwarca.ca
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Pnllntants
natural opportunity for collahoration
TRCA's experience from ndminlctArin_g n_ur Rurni r -lann Watar
Program, undertaken jointly with neighbouring conservation
authnritips and muolrip_alltlec, ran iofnrm actions to achieve Result
4, Which dlcruccac hact managernant prartiros for r'adurad rick of
nutrient loss from agricultural production.
nng wactp is annthpr nnntrihutnr to nutrient Inading in our
watersheds and eventually to Lake Ontario. This is particularly true
fnr older established areas like Toronto, where dogs off leash parks
ars+ nftpn located within valleylands. Rpst managPmant practirps
include vegetated buffers, site drainage and servicing srhedulac.
including flushing infrastrur:turp, to minimize nutrient impacts on
W;ttarrnurses that ultimately make their Way to the I aka,
Under Result 5, (1) and (m) both of these points mention "decision-
making" but are not sperifir.as to under which Iegislation, policies Or
rant datinnc riaricinnc wnuld ha nnrcuant
to (b) under Result 4 (Canada and Ontario will)
"r,nmpletp rhrnnir tnXirity fasting studios fnr Poiyarnmatir.
Hydrocarbons (PAHs) to develop create a hndy of crianrp m tffiriant
to develop create appropriate Environmental Quality Guidelines."
to (a) under Result 5 (r nnnrta and nn_tnrin will):
`Support rapturp and clean up pmjerts facto remove plastic
pollution frnm our wAtanerayc and land;"
Consider revision to (b) under Result 5 (Canada and Ontario will):
"Working thrnugh the Canadian Cnunril of Minictprs of tha
Environment, suppeFt the development o rmata an artinn plan to
implement the Canada -wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste"
to (g)(ii) under Result s (t=anadn will)
`navalnp natlnnal pprfnrmanre peoyjremeAts indiratnrs and
standards FRsludiRg for recycled rnntant, rnrnpnctahility, raparnhility,
and remanufacturing/refurbishment;'
to (1) undar Racult r (r)ntagn wili):
`r`.nnsidpr iotpgratinq the management of plastic pnllution into
Wacfawntar and ctnrmw=ter pnlirias "
f,:
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 12
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Maintain an aGGurate sclentitically aenved Inventury ut
Chemicals of Concern
reNteval-
to third paragraph under description out AT
"Improving wa5towater and oturmwatcr iFnanagement requires
signitivant investments, lung -term planning, and clear standards and
policies. Many Multiple partners play a role In the successful
management of wastewater and atormwater Including tvazral,
provincial, ana municipal guvernmentb.'
Anmsx 3: wastewater and I here are several actluna listed in Annex 3 that conservation
Stormwater authorities can assist with as we have knowledge, expertise,
resuar�h partnve snips, ana munituriny programs ali-ynua with the
Intent the Annex s Results (e.y., water quality and stream discharge
monitoring: exploring the water quality benefits of natural features,
assessing Impacts of salt us un aquatic ci usystcros, etc.).
opportunities tur tufthei cotla6oratiun and partnership exist through
watershed planning that gets undertaken jointly by municipalities
ana municipalities thivuyh the lana use planning prucesb as
mentioned above under Annex 1, Nutrients.
In the past TRCA has received special fu, idiny thrauyh tjrant
Agreements with puth EGCC slid MECP —to name a tew iecent
examples: Western Cake Ontario - Land to Cake; Western Durham
water quality monitoring program, Frisco Road Sturmwatcr Rctrutit
study, Small Equine Stewaraship Pruyram, c;laauphura studies,
Community engagement and outreach far programs and activities
outside of the Toronto AOC (Durham watorhcas). Aust ,acent y,
l RUA revived appiuximatety $4uuR tur tributary nuts lent loading
studies troin IDIECP.
Cvi wider ravisiun to (c) unaer Result t (untariu will)
"Update wastewater manayernent policies and develop a new
stormwater management policy; which includes provisions
spauiric Tv treatment requirementb, tae as well as
sewage oveifluws ana bypasses to enhance environmental
protection and reduce nutrient loadings."
RE: (I) cutler Result 2 (untariu will):
While I RCA supports this action given that communication tools are
needed about septic system impacts on Great Lakes water quality, it
5hvula Be i ivtea tnat munlulpalltles and uunservatlui i authorities
i oronta ana Re6ian Ccn.ervation r MMurity I s
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
consumption no septic contaminate risk for drinking water (to
nnmply with Rnurna Prntantinn Plan polLlec).
Re: (m) under Result 2 (Ontario will):
Given the impact of harmful algae blooms on the use of public
hPachec, it is rernrpmendPd that EIARs he listed together with F
coli, as below:
"Enhance understanding of the causes of E. coli, algae. or other
cuhctanr.Ps that reduce Ilse of heaches;"
Re. (n) under Recult 2 (r)ntarin will):
Suggest that beach management tool be described, or examples
prnvided in text.
With respect to Result 2. (q) (pathways for road salt), RnurrA
Protection Regioas estahlished under the Clean Water Act
undertaking an analvsis of groundwater's tranapnrt pathways, rnuld
aid the Province in its goal of assessing pathways for road salt into
groundwater. This goal ties iota Science gleed Area 7 "Improve the
understanding of the effects of urhan development on groundwater"
as identified in thA=mundwatcc.CrlearP Relevant to the r�raat
Lakes Water Quality Agreement: A Status Report.
the RUctalnahIA IArhnningiee Fyaluatlnn Program could alsn
support the Province in addressing objectives of this Science Need
including hasp data acguisitinn and monitoring of urban water
halanrac and recoarrh on urhnn grnundwnter rnntaminntA fate.
We note that the removal of sodium and chloride from the Provincial
VV:;tAr Quality OhjArtives fAAls at odds with this goal. Ralt is A major
contributor to watercourse toxicity in our watersheds. IRf:A staff
work with municipal staff to ensure appropriate site/road drainage to
minimize salt imparts on the watercnurcPs. TRCA continues to work
with municipal and provincial agencies to devaInp ctrnfanipR and
policies to minimize salt runoff to watercourses and wetlands.
Including appropriate draining and buffers.
7oro�to and Reeion con�er`vtion Authority I a
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Annex 5: Areas of
uvnl.ern
The Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP) for the
1 uruntu Area ut uunccrn (Auu) is the largest pruyram currently
supported 5y the GUA. T RCA administers the RAP as part of a 5 -
year (2015-2020), $2.5 million agreement with Envirunrrem ano
ulimate unange Vanada and IIEGP. I fie uUA undei the RAP and
the Great Cakes sustainability Fund have fostered the development
and delivery of strategic habitat planning arra prujeut initiatives tnat
value over 1u iullllun Bullar 5.
TRCA projects ander the RAP include the Integrated Restoration
Plan, Tvruntu Habitat SanRin-g, "Fisfiiny in yuur SacRyard -An
urban Recreational Fisfieries Strategy tur the CaKe Ontario
Northwest Waterfront", and projects that focus on coastal wetlands
and na6itaat rstu atiurr it, High prunle public spaues. Iulureuver,
tfirough development and infrastructure planning processes: TRGA
staff work with municipalities and proponents to ensure ecological
re5turativn prujc-�ts arc dlrcutcd toward btrategiu areas to address
RAP priorities in the I orontu AUG.
Under Result 12 (5) conducting "monitoring of wildlife populations to
assess pryrss towards acnievemcnt ut delisting criteria` seems
out of place given that. while we have monitored wildlife; this is not a
priority activity. The reason for listing of the fish and wildlife
pupulatiuns Sul was tisfi. "wildfire pupulatiuns and habitat" was
always a joined BUI with fish. In 2015. the RAP determined that the
wildlife pari of both BUIs needed tv 6c rpvrtea on separately as we
moved tuwards desisting tfiese. I His was not meant to indicate a
lack of concern for wildlife. Rather there was a focus on the Cake
rather than watersheds. 1 Marefur, at that time, tfier were no real
u5jectives set tur wildlife. However, while there ars limited
opportunities to speak to wildlife if the focus is strictly the Cake, the
pruucss to dcliot alluwcd the KAP team to du this.
Further to the abuve, another suggested commitment codld 6e for
the Toronto RAP team and Aquatic Habitat Toronto to provide
rinancial and teufinical support to priority autiuns to aavanue
progress towards achievement of delisting criteria for Coss of Fish
and Wildlife Habitat and Degradation of Fish and Wildlife
Pvpulativn5.
Also antler Result 12. the As116ridge's Bay T reatment Plant
upgrades will be an additional key action for addr55ing tfie 6e'aufi
ulusures ano cutrupfiivatiun tins.
1 fie Toronto AUC is on track to delist 6y 2025. While there is a
sunset for the RAP, there is some expectation that cffvrts ano
investment will uuntinov unce the AUC is delisted, primarily tnruugfi
monitoring, engagement and maintenance activities to ensure
I oMao ana Region Lon.ervarion HarROrty I :)
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Annex 6: Lakewide Frnsion plays a rne- in impairing water quality so it should he
managampnt Included In tha MA. Frncinn chnuld hP fanturPd mnrp prnminantly
in commitments especially given the high_watPr levPI Pvantc of 2n]7
and 9019 in Lake Ontario.
In order to accommodate the inrcaacAd vnli imp and volority of
surface runoff from urbanization, widening and undercutting of
rerelvino watprhndipc ran nrrur, in turn causing ctPep hanks to
clump end fall during Cevore cfnrmQ. In 'ndditlnn, the hind of thin
watercourse may change due to sediment covering the natural
suhetratp with shifting deposits of mud, silt, and sand, thereby
a5-rting aq Uatir hnhltat; dnwnrutting of the rhannpl hPd rrctatps
instability which can lead to increases in the velocity of stream flow
and emcion dnwnstream. I nes of riparian tree canopy cover results
frnm tha rnnctant undorcutting and fajlurp of the stream hanks,
exposing tree roots and other woody vegetation that would
otherwise serve to stahiliZp the hanks of the watercourse. The
impairmpnts from these jmpartc have ramifiratinnc dnwnctream at
the river mouth where it meets Lake Ontario.
Result 1, (h) In this AnnPx could he a grind point to include wording
about erosion threats jn riverine and chnrajina systems ((h)
highlights this arguably under "physical'). Annex 3 where
ctnrMwatgr management Is discussed Is where another Connection
rtm iiid ha mada tn_ iccupc of arneinn fnr PcncyctPm hpaith, WP nntP
that erosion is referenced in Annex 10, Climate Change Impacts
and Resilience, but the focus in Annex 6 on threats to water guality
rmrjd inrludo actions ragnrding Prnsinn,
RP: (P) under Result 5 (Ontario will), suggest that action be
axnandpd ac fnjjnwc;
"Maintain and/or develop programs to provide education and
nutrPach nn the prntPrtion of drinking water cnurrec, and tn:
identify and support actions to mitigate potential threats to
an[irrP watar,
encourage collaboration on protecting our shared drinking
water snucres: and
raise the profile of the importance of the Great Lakes as a
snurce of drinking water fnr Ontnrjn.
Suggest the addition of another action: Canada and Ontario will
wnrk with muninipalitles rPcpnncihle fnr providing water from
systems with intakes in the rrpnt i akar to undPrtnkp artinns to
support the implementation of source protection plan policies to
protect thesp snurcPs of drinking water.
Annex 8: Habitat and Result 1 (a) and (b) - The references to "net habitat gain" and
Species °rPstoration" imply a habitat off -setting strategy is needed to
augment the rurrPnt prntartinns for hahitatc under the elanning Art
and Environmental Assessment Act review and approval processes,
Twoiatn i^nd Reeian cnncenutlan Authority I r
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
The current review of the Provincial Puiicy Statement alluacs to
provincial guidance Tur municipalities to "manage" non -provincially
significant wetlands, however; the Agreement's commitments cited
abuvo woula requirc, yuioanoe un managing a Broader ranye of
habitat.
Annex g: t;ruunawater I RUA Is niynly supportive ut the cummitments in the Agreement
Quality related to protecting groundwater quality. Flowever, as identified by
Cunscrvatlun Ontario, trio IinK Bctwcen yruundwater quality and
quantity is not emphasized. Please see comments above under
Annex 3. Wastewater and Stormwater on how conservation
autPfuritics; might aid the Province in cunnecting yrudnawrater flow
regimes (rugal and urban) to groundwater quality and ecosystem
health.
I RCA is pleased to see the Province committing to updating its
SWM criteria and there are commitments in the COA to studying
uD and uther yrou,i water management imrastruucture. Aunatneiess,
the Ayreement could benefit from more focus on implementation
(see General Comments on Implementing Mechanisms). For
example, thruugn our rules in the planning and permitting
processes. I RCA provides direction on mitigation in areas where
groundwater dewatering may impact baseflow to natural featuru.s
such as wetlands and wateruurses.
The Agreement speaks to the impurtanco of munitu, ing, and
p, uvincial respunsiBilities tur that. I his is nut cunsistaTit with the
recent MECP decision to reduce funding for the Provincial
Ljrundwater Muniturinyy MetwurR. h ideed, the reduction in funding
seems at odds with the goals odtlined in this Annex.
Many ut the AOCs that rd within cvnservatiun authurity Buundaries
and large prujects that rely on conservation authority expertise. such
as the Don River Naturalization and Portlands Flood Protection
prujcZ, can ggonurate significant data on water quality and
ecosystem health of the creat Cakes, including nearshore areas. In
addition, the Oak Ridges Moraine Groundwater Program (ORMGP)
can provide a slyniTluant serviuc In data retention Tur such projects.
With respect to Result 2 (a), (surface water- groundwater
cunceptual and numerical muaGu), the uRMOP could assist the
Province with this Result in developing groundwater -surface water
(GW/SW) models at various scales. The ORMGP has retained the
modeling tiles tur all the muaels pruduced By the nine cunservatiun
authorities located on the ORM and has undertaken a comparative
analysis of the various models, especially who,c uve,lap of the
mudel Boundaries exists. I fie ORMuP is also wurking with its UA
and municipal partners on a Terms of Reference with respect to
future modeling projects.
Toronto an8 Region Conservation Autilority I /
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Tha Agreement"s Rptult 7 goal tnr imprnVed understanding of
GW/SW interactions also ties into three differant Gcipn-rp Waed
Areas as identified in the Groundwater Science Relevant to the
(_resat / ekes Water QuaUty Agreement A Status Report.
e Science Need Area 1: Advance assessment of regional -
scalp groundwater discharge (guantity) to surface water in
tha Racin
• Sclpnrp Need Area s: neveLp hatter tnnls for monitoring
cuotpillanra and Incal-toalA accPttment of groundwntpr-
surface water Interaction
• Snienca, Naad Arpa R: noupinn cralad-up modaic of raginnal
effects of groundwater on Great Lakes water quality.
In Dartirular, watarchad planning avarricac' future land and avatar
use scenarios could be considered in the context of the model
nutputs generated by SnurcP Protection Regions.
With respect to Result 2 (b), (Undertake and promote mnnitoring
and resparrh to Improve understanding of groundwater), this goal
tips into Srienre Need Area 4 °Advanrp rasearrh no lnr_.al-scala
assessment of interaction between groundaratar and cudarA wntpe'
as identified in the Groundwater Science Relevant to the Great
/ akec water QualitV Agreement: A Rtahts Report. roncervatino
Authnrltiac rnuld aid the PrnulncP in itc final of imprnuing
understanding of groundwater influences on ecosystem health
through local knowladge. TRCA rerentiv undertook an exercise in
Identifying Pnninginaily Significant rrnuodwater Rarharge. Arpac
using outputs from groundwater models that were produced by the
Snurce Protection Region. Thp model outputs were verified by
undertaking ctatictjral analytic of known grnundwatpr dependant
ecosystems captured by the model outputs.
1ALith rPcpPrt to (r.) (prnvinrial grnuodwatpr, surfar.P watar and
integrated climate change monitoring), thic goal tiPQ intn Srianrp
Need Area 3 "Advaore monitoring and surveillance of groundwater
_guality in the rraat I akar Raslri' as idpotifipd in the C,rnurldwatar
SCiaoCe RP(evant in the rrlat 1 akar Wator Quality Agrpamanh A
Status Report. Conservation authorities, with sufficient funding, can
aid the Prnvincp through identifying priority watersheds in which to
fnruc racanmh Pffnrtc, rnmpiling hictnriral groundwater gualibi data.
and increasing availability of hydrogeological mapping products.
With rPcpPrt to Racuit � (a) (Earjlitata the rnnrdlnatinn, chorind and
exchange of information and research), this goal aligns with Science
Weed Area 6 "Advance research an the role of groundwater in
aguatir hahitatc in the rraat I akpc Racin" at identified In
the Groundwater Science Relevant to the Great 1 akes water
[Duality Agreement: A Status Report. As groundwater -dependent
PrnsystPmt are mappPd within the rrwat I akpc Racin, rnncervatlnn
authorities can support the Province in collecting local data such as
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 18
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
habitat paten ana species distri6atiun as well as assess their
exposure and sensitivity to groundwater variation and other
stressors.
For Result 3 (6) (Identity priority sites or areas where point sources
may impact...), this yval relates to Suiciicc Ideea Aiea Z "Establish
suience-Basea priorities to advance the assessment of the
geographic distribution of known and potential sources of
groundwater euntaminants reli vans to great CaRC-b water quality,
and the efficacy of mitigation ettuftb" as identified in
the Groundwater Science Relevant to the Great Lakes Wafer
Annex 9u: climate change 1 RCA and the Ontario Climate Consortium (OCC) are established,
Impact and Resilience credible partner tnat can vffer strategic planniny support to many or
the commitments made in the Climate Change Impact and
Resilience Annex. TRCA serves as the Secretariat for the OCC.
OCC Drinys tugetncr rescarancm Trun i sume ut Ontario's leading
academia institutiun5, as well as municipalities, conservation
authorities. and the broader public sector. TRCA/OCC alsv
cvlla5ujratcs witn (;EISA — creat EaRes Intcyrarted Suience
Assessment Program - based out of the University of Michigan;
GEIS is a leading group on climate modelling in the Great LaRes
Basin ana uvmmunivates climate Chane impacts to the 6ruaaer
community.
TRCA/OCC has been suppoffing the Climate cRanyyc Annex
(previously Annex g — climate Gnange Impacts) in iaentitying
climate science knowledge gaps and convening experts around
climate modeling and informatiuF, at the Great Lanes Basin scale.
UCC also sits un the Extenciva 5o6wmmittee for the climate
change Annex and contributes to the development of the Great
Lakes Annual Climatc Summa y. OCU h,rujects with the po61ic
recto include uunductiny voinera6ility assessments in the Great
lakes Basin and hosting an annual climate science and planning
workshop.
UCG also pruviaes climate change -related support to Annex 7;
Rabitat and Species; by convening stakeholders to discuss
Reshionua I Ringing aria Timate ananye volnera6ility assessment
Best practices associated with coastal wetlands.
TRCA/OCC looks forward to continuing to sappurt the ugv%,tives uT
Me Agreement in taoRling ulimate aRange into zuzu and beyond. we
otter the following comments and questions on the draft new
Agreement Annex 10 for climate change.
fecund paragraph - sugycst revising sentence to "warmer water
temperatures" and adding "increasingly variable waves and winds,
extreme weather events."
Toronto ana Region Conservation Authority 19
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
Third paragraph - The impacts of climate change will also have a
significant effect on communities in the Great Lakes Basin. For
example, harsh lake -effect snow and ice storms can disrupt critical
services and damage infrastructure. Therefore, the third paragraph
should also include how climate change impacts will affect
communities.
Further to the above, we suggest rephrasing sentence to "Regional
adaptation planning, decision-making and action are supported
through this program with the aim of helping communities and
industries prepare for and adapt to local climate impacts resutfing
including the increase in droughts, floods
and coastal erosion." TRCA also suggests adding problems with
water and air quality, forest fires, crop changes, extreme weather
events, and health impacts, to the list of local impacts.
Suggest providing more details around the climate projections
Ontario intends on using. For example, will Ontario use the data
provided by the Canadian Centre for Climate Services? Or will the
Province be undertaking its own regional climate modeling? It may
be helpful to outline this here, since there are many uncertainties
and gaps around climate modeling, specifically in the Great Lakes
Basin (e.g., many climate models do not account for the Great
Lakes).
It would be helpful for the CGA to provide more details on the on-
line tool that the Province will be developing. For example, will this
be similar to that of the Canadian Centre for Climate Services? Will
the Province be running this tool, or will there be a provincial climate
"hub" organization that will be leading this?
Suggests adding "and with other Annexes of the GLWQA and
enhancing inter -Annex collaboration and communication on climate
change" in the last paragraph, when talking about sharing climate
change information with the Great Lakes community.
For Result 1, (Enhance knowledge and understanding of existing
and future climate change impacts...), in (c), suggest adding "Great
Lakes water levels' as Environment and Climate Change Canada is
already doing this.
For Q), is there a reason why this action only involves Lake Ontario?
Suggest including all Great Lakes in Ontario, if possible.
In Result 2, (Assess existing and future climate change risks and
vulnerabilities...), suggest moving subsection d) "Share information
and results from the Provincial Climate Change Impact Assessment
and the Canada in a Changing Climate series of reports" to Result
3, as this is more focused around sharing information on climate
Toronto and Region Conservation Authoritv 110
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
great
cummUnity.
Under subsection g): revise "flood mapping" to "floodplain mapping"
Rcsalt s, kbMarc inrrmatiun un dimatc uManye impacts, risks and
vulnerabilities .... and advance the integration of climate change
considerations...), in section (a), include other Annexes of the COA
in tME Knumcoge sRariny, as tMete is a IacKc ct inter -annex
I orontO aMa Regium W1b2RatiVn Authority 111
Attachment 2 - TRCA Response to COA Review
New Business and Good News Stories
RES.#R20/19 - Andrew McCammon, Executive Director, Ontario Headwaters
Institute, on High Consensus: Deep Concerns — Report on a
Sustainable Planning Survey of Ontario's Environmental
Stewardship Community
Moved by: Heather Broadbent
Seconded by: Margaret Bream
THAT the new business and good news stories be received.
CARRIED
TERMINATION
ON MOTION from Madeleine McDowell, the meeting terminated at 9:00 p.m., on Wednesday,
September 11`h, 2019.