HomeMy WebLinkAboutHumber Watershed Alliance 2006THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE
MINUTES OF MEETING #1/06
AUTHORITY
MEETING #3/06
APRIL 28, 2006
ffrTHE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 Page G1
February 21, 2006
The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, February 21,
2006. Lois Griffin, Chair of the Humber Alliance, called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m.
PRESENT
Jim Bradley Member
Sharon Bradley Member
Bill Buchan Associate Member
Royce Fu Member
Lois Griffin Chair
Ron Hingston Member
Jeff Hladun Alternate Member
Madeleine McDowell Member
Hugh Mitchell Member
Miriam Mittermaier Member
Lynda Rogers Member
Deb Schulte Member
Lynn Short Member
Rolande Smith Member
Nancy Stewart Member
Peter Telford Member
Jane Underhill Member
John Willetts Member
Bill Wilson Member
GUESTS
Teri Burgess Resident
S.B. Lakshmi TRCA Volunteer Network
Jim Marshall Resident
STAFF
Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber
Karen Sun . Watershed Resources Planner, Humber
Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber
Dean Young Coordinator, Subwatershed Planning
G2 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1106 February 21, 2006
RES. #G1/06 - MINUTES
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Deb Schulte
THAT the Minutes of Meeting #4/05, held on October 18, 2005, be approved .... CARRIED
BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
(a) Avian FIu Virus
At Humber Watershed Alliance meeting #4105, staff was directed to determine whether a
strategy should be prepared to deal with the Avian FIu virus. G. Wilkins reported that TRCA is
partnering with the University of Guelph to monitor bird populations at Tommy Thompson Park.
Preventative measures are also being taken such as developing a protocol for setting up hand
washing stations. In the event of a large pandemic wherein large numbers of staff are ill or
must be quarantined, our Human Resources staff is in the process of preparing an action plan
on how to deal with the demobilization of staff.
b) Motorized Vehicles in Unauthorized Areas
At Humber Watershed Alliance meeting #4/05, resolution #G65/05 was adopted, as follows:
"THAT TRCA ask their Superintendents to identify the problem of motorized vehicles,
including off trail biking, going through their respective conservation areas and report
back to the Humber Watershed Alliance;
AND FURTHER THAT each subcommittee of the Alliance put this item on their next
agendas for further discussion."
G. Wilkins advised that this item was discussed with TRCA's parks staff. This is not a big
problem on TRCA lands save and except for one property and that is the Nashville Resource
Management Tract between Kleinburg and Bolton where four -wheel vehicle, snow mobile and
mountain bike activities occur. Enforcement is done by way of regular TRCA patrols by parks
staff and enforcement staff during specific times of the year Currently, TRCA is not interested
in entertaining any proposals to locate ATV use on TRCA land.
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G3
CORRESPONDENCE
(a) Letter to Councillor Howard Moscoe, dated December 1, 2005, re: Revitalization of
Toronto's subway system
(b) Letter from Lois Griffin, Chair of the Humber Alliance, to the City of Toronto, dated
December 6, 2005, re: Recycling Pilot Project for Cruickshank Park
(c) Letter to the Toronto Preservation Board, dated December 7, 2005, re: White Oak Tree
on 37 Weatherell Street, Toronto
(d) Letter to the Brampton Heritage Board, dated December 22, 2005, re: McVean Barn
(e) Letter to Mayor Michael Di Biase, dated January 3, 2006, re: 2006 Budget for the Bartley
Smith Greenway and the Granger Greenway
(f) Email from Kevin Bowser of the City of Toronto, to Karen Sun, dated January 11, 2006
re: Recycling Pilot Project for Cruickshank Park
(g) Letter to the Hon. Jim Watson, Minister of Health Promotion, dated January 13, 2006,
re: Ontario Trails Strategy - Comments by the Don Watershed Regeneration Council
RES. #G2/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Nancy Stewart
Miriam Mittermaier
THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED
PRESENTATIONS
(a) Priority Projects for 2006
The Chairs of each of the Humber Alliance Subcommittees made brief presentations on what
projects their subcommittees would like to focus on this year.
The Chair thanked the presenters for their very informative presentations.
G4 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 Februan/ 2., ?(:U,i:
RES. #G3/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER WATERSHED PLANNING STUDY PROJECT UPDATE ANL"
CONSULTATION SCHEDULE
Updated status on progress of the Humber River Watershed Planning
Study and proposed schedule for consultation on draft documents.
Madeleine McDowell
Jim Bradley
THAT the progress update report be received;
THAT the proposed schedule for consultation on draft documents be endorsed;
AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members assist with providing comment;:
on the draft phase 2 report draft watershed plan recommendations, when available, and 'viR,-
developing implementation strategies CARPE(
BACKGROUND
In June 2004, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), in partnership with the
Humber Watershed Alliance, Peel Region, York Region, City of Toronto, City of Brampton,
Town of Caledon, Town of Vaughan, Township of King, Township of Adjala- Tosoront;(:,
Township of Mono, and other watershed stakeholders, initiated a watershed planning sway Lo
develop an integrated watershed plan for the Humber River. This watershed planning study
was initiated to fulfill the watershed planning requirements of the Oak Ridges Moraine
Conservation Act, 2001 and Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) and to ;iperal
the Humber River watershed strategy, Legacy. A Strategy for a Healthy Humber (1997) base.,
on new and improved technical information.
A general work program for the watershed planning study was presented at Humber c)
meeting #3/03 on July 15th, 2003 which outlined the three phase study process to be ;ollow €c
and the approach and initial schedule for consultation with stakeholders. At the meeting the
following resolution was passed:
THAT the Humber River Watershed Planning Study be initiated and undertaken in tht A,�
phases according to the general work program outlined in this report;
THAT public /stakeholder input to the work program be obtained via reports to the
Humber Alliance, meetings with municipal staff, and a community open house 1n Um:
fall, and that the public /stakeholder involvement program for the remainder or oh.9
be confirmed at the end of Phase 1;
AND THAT staff report back to the Humber Alliance at a future meeting with a detail /'I
work program and on the progress of Phase 1 of the study.
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G5
A report describing the scenarios proposed to be examined during phase 2 of the study was
presented at the Humber Alliance meeting #01/05 on January 18, 2005. At that meeting the
following resolution was passed:
THAT the future land use scenarios as described in the Phase 2 - Analysis and
Evaluation Discussion Paper dated January 10, 2005, be endorsed;
THAT the outcomes of the Phase 2 analysis and evaluation of the future land use
scenarios be brought back to the Humber Watershed Alliance when available;
AND FURTHER THAT the five major sub - watershed boundaries that were used in
Legacy. A Strategy for a Healthy Humber, be utilized for reporting the results of the new
technical information and its analysis and evaluation for the updated Humber
Watershed Management P /an.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
Progress Update
• An overall work plan for the Humber River Watershed Planning Study was completed in
June 2004;
• Consultation with municipal staff regarding the overall work plan, available information
and key watershed management issues of concern was undertaken between
September 2004 and January 2005;
• Work on phase 1 of the study, which focuses on developing an updated understanding
of current conditions in the Humber River watershed and identifying key watershed
management issues and future trends is nearing completion. Gathering of new and
available information is complete. Compilation and reporting of new and available
information in the form of technical background reports is nearing completion with first
draft reports completed for 10 of 11 watershed component studies (Air Quality, Aquatic
System, Cultural Heritage, Fluvial Geomorphology, Groundwater System, Land and
Resource Use, Low Stream Flow/Water Use, Policy Framework, Public Use, Surface
Water Quality, and Terrestrial System). The first draft of the Groundwater System
technical background report remains incomplete but is anticipated to be completed by
the end of February 2006;
• Consultation with municipal staff regarding the proposed approach to phase 2 of the
study, which involves examining the effects of alternative future scenarios of land and
water use and management on watershed health, was undertaken in June 2005;
• Work on phase 2 of the study is well underway but delayed by approximately four
months due to complications associated with calibrating surface water and
groundwater models and integrating outputs;
• Focus group meetings have been held jointly with stakeholders from both the Humber
and Rouge River watersheds to discuss innovative management strategies to address
watershed management issues associated with the agricultural and mineral and
aggregate resource extraction industries in October and November 2005;
• Modelling and analysis of scenarios is anticipated to be completed by end of April
2006;
G6 HUMBER WATERSHED AWANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
• A draft report summarizing findings from phase 2 of the study and preliminary
watershed plan recommendations is anticipated to be completed by end of May 2006;
A first full draft of the Humber River Watershed Plan is anticipated to be completed by
end of September 2006;
Proposed Consultation Schedule
As outlined in the general work program and elaborated upon in the overall study workplan,
partners and stakeholders will be consulted with and involved in the watershed planning
process in a number of ways. Municipal staff, Humber Watershed Alliance representatives and
other interested stakeholders will be circulated with draft documents from each phase in the
planning study for review and comment. Additionally, Focus Group meetings and Community
Open House events will be held at appropriate times in the process to provide opportunities to
review and have input to draft recommendations and to help develop strategies for
implementing the draft watershed plan recommendations.
In order to coordinate the review and commenting process, the following schedule for
consultation on draft documents from the watershed planning study is proposed:
• Review and comment on technical background reports between January 17 and March
17, 2006;
• Review and comment on draft phase 2 report and preliminary watershed plan
recommendations between July 18 and October 17, 2006;
• Review and comment on first full draft watershed plan between October 17 and
December 1, 2006.
RES. #G4/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER RIVER WATERSHED PLANNING STUDY - SUMMARY OF
KEY FINDINGS FROM PHASE 1 TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
REPORTS PART 1
Review of key findings from Phase 1 studies updating information on
current conditions in the watershed for the components of Air Quality,
Aquatic System, Surface Water Quality, Cultural Heritage, and Public
Use.
Lynn Short
Deb Schulte
THAT the report summarizing key findings from Air Quality, Aquatic System, Surface Water
Quality, Cultural Heritage and Public Use technical background reports be received;
THAT staff report on key findings from the remaining technical background reports on
Fluvial Geomorphology, Groundwater System, Land and Resource Use, Low Stream
Flow/Water Use, Policy Framework, and Terrestrial System on or before the next Humber
Watershed Alliance meeting on April 18, 2006;
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G7
AND FURTHER THAT the following Humber Watershed Alliance members be invited to
review and comment on the draft phase 1 technical background reports by
March 17, 2006:
Lynn Short
Bill Wilson
Peter Telford
John Willetts
Madeleine McDowell
Royce Fu
Sharon Bradley
Aquatic System
Surface Water Quality
Air Quality and Policy Framework
Public Use
Cultural Heritage
Policy Framework
Terrestrial System CARRIED
BACKGROUND
In support of the Humber River Watershed Planning Study, information gathering and technical
study was initiated in 2004 to gather and report on new and available information describing
current conditions in the Humber River watershed, and to identify current watershed
management issues of concern and future trends.
Studies and information gathering was undertaken for the following watershed components:
• Air Quality;
• Aquatic System;
• Cultural Heritage;
• Fluvial Geomorphology;
• Groundwater System;
• Land and Resource Use;
• Low Stream Flow and Water Use;
• Policy Framework;
• Public Use;
• Surface Water Quality; and,
• Terrestrial System
Draft technical background reports have been prepared, or are in the process of being
prepared to summarize the findings from each of these component studies. The following
summary provides highlights from the Air Quality, Aquatic System, Surface Water Quality,
Cultural Heritage, and Public Use technical background reports:
AIR QUALITY
• "very good" Air Quality Index' scores were achieved only 46% of the time in 2001;
Air Quality Index scores in the "moderate" to "poor" range occurred 9% of the time;
1 Air Quality Index is based on hourly ambient concentrations of six key pollutants that are known to have
adverse effects on human health and the environment: sulphur dioxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, total reduced
sulphur compounds, carbon monoxide, and suspended particles.
G8 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1106 . February 21, 2006
• Ground -level ozone2 was the pollutant responsible for poor air quality in all instances
where smog advisories were issued in 2001;
• Average annual ambient ozone concentrations recorded at Humber area monitoring
stations appear to exhibit .a slight, yet steadily increasing trend between 1990 and 2002;
• Hot sunny weather is known to accelerate the chemical reactions that form ground -level
ozone and a strong correlation seems to exist between high air temperatures and the
number of ozone exceedances observed at Humber area monitoring stations;
• Climate change models predict that average annual air temperatures in the Great Lakes
Basin could rise by approximately three degrees Celsius by 2050. If this change results
in hotter summers it can be anticipated that the frequency of smog warnings will
increase unless emissions of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds are
drastically reduced;
• Fine particulate matter' concentrations occasionally exceeded the provincial interim 24-
hour Ambient Air Quality Criteria of 50 ug /L, a concentration limit for the protection of
Number of ozone exceedances days
25
20
15
10
5
0
Trend of Ozone Exceedance Days and "Hot" Days (1990 - 2002)
1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 '2000 2001 2002
Esau Number of Ozone Exceedance Days --s— Number of "Hot" Days
40
A
N
35
4-
30 a
E
25 • 0
E
7 N
20 E
x
E v
15 °
N �
A
10
5
0
2 Ozone is a colourless gas produced by photochemical reactions between oxygen, nitrogen oxides and
volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight. Ozone is not directly emitted into the atmosphere in
significant amounts. Studies have demonstrated that ozone impairs the normal function of the lungs, causing
alterations in respiration rates, the most characteristic being shallow, rapid breathing. Exposure may result in chest
tightness, coughing, and wheezing. Ozone can also cause plants to grow 10 to 40 percent more slowly, age .
prematurely, lose leaves during the growing season, and produce pollen with shorter life spans.
3 Fine particulate matter can penetrate deep into the lungs and can aggravate bronchitis, asthma, and
other respiratory diseases.
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G9
human health.
AQUATIC SYSTEM
• Historically, the headwaters of the Humber River have supported the healthiest aquatic
ecosystems in the watershed, while the quality of aquatic habitats in the lower, more
urbanized reaches were more degraded. The results of recent monitoring indicate that
the quality of aquatic habitats in the headwaters of the Humber River are showing signs
of decline or stress;
• A comparison of 2001 and 2004 fish monitoring data suggests that the quality of
aquatic habitat in the Humber River declined at 57% of the monitoring sites while only
30% showed improvement and 14% remained unchanged;
• In 2004, the quality of aquatic habitat was rated "good" at only 32.5% of Humber
monitoring stations while 17.5% of the stations were rated as "poor ";
• Based on annual sampling of benthic invertebrates between 2002 and 2004, the quality
of aquatic habitat at only 37% of the monitoring stations is rated as "unimpaired ".
Although nearly two thirds of the sites were rated as "potentially impaired ", a close
examination of the species observed shows that many sites rated as "potentially
impaired" still support species of benthic invertebrates that are indicative of good water
and habitat quality;
• The Humber River supports many species of fish which are highly sensitive to increases
in stream flow velocities, turbidity and siltation, which are changes that typically occur in
watercourses draining urbanizing areas;
• There is a growing number offish species that have been observed in the Humber River
in the past, but are not being observed in recent samplings. Some species have not
been observed for nearly sixty (60) years. Focused surveys are needed to determine
whether or not these species have been extirpated. The loss of fish species indicates
that the health of the aquatic ecosystem has been degraded and that constraints and
impact mitigation measures intended to protect aquatic habitat and species that have
been implemented through development planning and resource management decision -
making processes have not been effective and need to be improved;
• Redside dace, a species . of special concern under the federal Species at Risk Act, has
been observed in the Humber River for many years. However, recent monitoring only
found the species in isolated locations. The status of redside dace populations remains
uncertain in several primary and secondary Humber River subwatersheds and requires
further investigation. New urban growth that is anticipated to occur in the East and
West Humber subwatersheds will likely affect much of the last remaining redside dace
habitats, making the future viability of Humber River redside dace populations a cause
for concern;
• After limited sampling in 2004, there is evidence suggesting that the Humber River may
support a diverse community of freshwater mussels that may not be found in other
TRCA watersheds. The presence of healthy communities of mussels is an indicator of
healthy aquatic habitats;
• Chimney crayfish have been identified in headwater habitats, which provides evidence
of where groundwater upwelling is occurring. These habitats should be protected as
chimney crayfish are considered a fish species under the federal Fisheries Act;
• A new non - native and invasive aquatic species, the rusty crayfish, was found in the
Humber River watershed in 2003. Since 2003, the rusty crayfish appears to have
G10 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
expanded its range in the watershed. The rusty crayfish could out compete native
species of crayfish like the chimney crayfish and cause them to be extirpated if a
focused program to control the spread of this species is not put in place. They are also
known to reduce the abundance of aquatic plants and impact the amount of food and
habitat available for fish, particularly darters, sculpins, mudminnows and sunfish;
• Many of the Humber River aquatic species are habitat specialists, and are wetland or
headwater species that prefer cool water thermal regimes. Recent monitoring of in-
stream water temperature at selected locations indicates that temperatures are highly
unstable at many locations, which is likely impacting the health of aquatic communities
dependant on stable, cool water habitats, particularly in the headwaters;
• Only 39% of riparian areas` in the Humber River watershed have natural riparian
vegetation cover. Information on areas lacking natural riparian vegetation cover will be
correlated with fisheries management plan targets to prioritize regeneration efforts;
• Preliminary investigations have identified 1,201 potential in- stream barriers and stream
crossings that could be limiting the movement of species between critical habitats. A
significant amount of work ,needs .to be done to investigate these potential in- stream
barriers and set priorities for mitigation efforts;
• Seventy -six percent (76 %) of the 1,400 km of watercourses that make up the Humber
River are first and second order (small) streams. Monitoring information for these types
of aquatic habitats remains limited. Increasing the number of aquatic monitoring
stations on small streams should be considered;
• Aquatic communities are experiencing significant pressure from angling activities in the
headwater areas and in the lower reaches, below Steeles Avenue, during the spawning
run of trout and salmon.
uatic System Monitorinq Stations, Humber River watershed, 2004
Black Creek
East Humber
West Humber _
Main, Humber
Lower Humber
1
8
5
18
8
3
16
14
16
12
Poor
Fait
Good
Very Good No Fish
1
0
0
0
1
2
5
0
0
0
3
2
0
0
1
11
6
0
0
4
2
0
2
TOTAL
40
7
17.5
18
13
45 f 32.5
2
0 5
SURFACE WATER QUALITY
• The lower reaches of streams in the West Humber with its clay soils, low baseflow rates
and urbanizing . landscape, exhibit the poorest overall water quality in the Humber River
watershed. Conditions at the mouth of Black Creek and at the Old Mill station on the
Lower Humber are not much better. The absence of modern stormwater management
controls in the older urban developments upstream of these stations contributes
Riparian areas are defined as the area of land within 30 metres of the streambank.
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G11
significantly to the dirty water at these sites. TRCA, in partnership with municipalities,
have identified stormwater retrofit opportunities in these areas to help address this
issue;
• Surface waters in the upper portions of the watershed on Cold Creek, Centreville Creek
and on the Upper Main Humber display reasonably good water quality. Even the East
Humber, which has experienced moderate levels of urbanization over the past 10 years,
remains relatively clean;
• The concentration of suspended solids in surface waters is a particularly important
water quality indicator because solid particles act as a primary transport vector for other
contaminants such as phosphorus, most heavy metals, and bacteria. Levels of
suspended solids were highest in the West Humber, where erodible clay soils
predominate, followed by the Lower Humber at Old Mill. Options available to reduce
suspended solid concentrations include vegetated riparian buffers and restrictions on
cattle access in rural areas, improved sediment controls on construction sites in
urbanizing areas, and enhanced management of stormwater in cities and towns. The
key is to reduce the volume of stormwater that runs off into streams by infiltrating as
much of it as possible;
• Bacteria levels in the rivers often failed to meet the provincial guideline for recreational
swimming, even on streams dominated by natural and rural land uses. For instance,
only 29% of samples collected in the mostly rural Centreville Creek subwatershed met
the guideline. The highest concentrations were observed in the City of Toronto and on
the West Humber;
• All Humber watershed swimming beaches were unsafe during most of the swimming
season in 2004, with the exception of Albion Hills, which chlorinates the enclosed beach
area in order to keep the beach open. The three Toronto waterfront beaches were
closed most frequently, in large part due to their close proximity to the mouth of the
Humber River, which is a source of significant bacterial contamination. Year -to -year
variations in beach posting frequency primarily reflects the frequency, duration and
intensity of rain storms occurring in any given year;
• The benefits of stormwater management in reducing bacteria levels at Toronto _
waterfront beaches was modelled in the City of Toronto's Wet Weather Flow
Management Master Plan in 2003. Results indicated that even with aggressive new
stormwater controls in the City, the waterfront beaches would remain closed for most of
the swimming season. Improvements could be achieved only if waterfront sources of
beach contamination are addressed (e.g., combined sewer overflows) and upstream
municipalities commit to a similarly aggressive approach to improving stormwater
controls;
The somewhat stringent provincial objective for phosphorus in receiving waters was
rarely met anywhere in the Humber. Elevated levels in part reflect the limited ability of
current stormwater ponds and other end -of -pipe stormwater management facilities to
remove this constituent. Even during dry weather, effluent concentrations from
stormwater ponds and wetlands are typically at least double the provincial water
quality objective for phosphorus. Stormwater infiltration practices such as permeable
pavement and underground perforated pipe systems are much more effective in
reducing phosphorus loads but, to date, there are very few instances in the Humber
River watershed where these types of practices have been implemented;
G12 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
Chloride is a major constitute of de -icing salts applied to roads during the winter.
Chloride levels in the Humber River are rising due to increasing urbanization. Winter
levels in the Lower Humber, West Humber and Black Creek are often above the
threshold established to protect aquatic life. The highest median values were recorded
at the mouth of the Black Creek subwatershed which is fully urbanized. At this station,
only 38% of samples collected were below the 250 mg /L limit. Further downstream, at
the Old Mill station, 67% of samples collected met the guideline and in all areas north of
Steeles, over 90% of samples met the guideline. A leveling off of chloride levels in
Humber streams may, be expected in the future as municipal salt management plans,
developed in 2004, begin to take. effect. Alternatives to road salts will need to be
considered on local roads if significant reductions in chloride levels are to occur;
Organic and inorganic chemicals entering watercourses through spills or accidental
discharges are controlled by federal, provincial and municipal governments through a
complex array of regulations and programs. The large number of spills that continue to
occur in the GTA suggest that still more could be done in this area. Between 1988 and
2000, there were approximately 900 oil spills and 750 chemical spills in the Humber
River watershed, of which roughly half drained to the Humber River or one of its
tributaries. In terms of volume, the chemical, transportation and general manufacturing
sectors contributed the most to chemical spills, often as a result of container or fuel tank
leaks. Actions that would help to address this problem include better spill prevention •
programs, improved structural controls on spill prone areas, stronger penalties for
violations and stepped -up enforcement of existing laws;
Trends in water quality were assessed for copper, zinc, total suspended solids, chloride
and phosphorus at the Old Mill Station on the Lower Humber. Chloride was the only
one of the five variables analyzed that showed an upward trend. These data suggest
that stormwater management controls in newly developed areas do appear to be
effective in removing contaminants associated with suspended sediment, such as
copper, zinc and phosphorus. If they were not, a significant deterioration in Humber
water quality would have been expected as the urban footprint in the watershed grew
steadily since the early 1980s.
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06
G13
Table 4: Percent of time selected conventional pollutants met guidelines at Humber River water
uality monitorinci stations (2002 - 2004
*sue
� � <
� �. � �
;� ��-��
:� : • eccent� eeGrde rie �,� �;��� �,
•. rr rx z3 e(aa� e
iya
�
t
TSS �
�� te�
o d
r
e'
s�y4N z.i.
t
7 r
i • .SPy.
.0 6 'i✓-
i
f e"
i#rat s
r?
_Ammonia
rF* ZC`T''f�.
i
��
Ur oniOd't
tie -,J 3
,... '•fi
u�
DO ti ati •
>
• t� t.sr- L.
Main Humber,
Cold Creek
83009 (n =21)
90
100
62
100/100
100
100
Main Humber,
Albion Hills
83018 (n =21)
95
100
71
100/100
100
100
West Humber
@
Hwy7
83103 (n =21)
48
100
10
71/90
100
100
West Humber
@
Claireville
83002 (n =21)
73
76
.
0
52/81
100
95
Main Humber,
Centreville Ck.
83104 (n=21)
95
100
48
100/100
100
100
Main Humber
@ Rutherford
Rd.
83020 (n =21)
84
95
34
79/100
95
89
,East Humber
Pine Grove
83004 (n=21)
91
90
38
81/95
90
100
Black Creek @
Scarlett Road
83012 (n =21)
95
•
38
38
24/90
100
100
Lower Humber
Old Mill
83019 (n=55)
77
67
19
59/95
100
100
G14
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06
February 21, 2006
Fyg
�E
-
'�},lrir": i a;' - - .� i;:.; .i%-�.: n
�� ercerlt Meet Guideline s
TSS
k�
x hlori
'r- � i
• a
-`,6.
-g!�
:. att
-� • i` -+
E�
T n-ionfigk,
} mot,, '' - ..ae
0 =
° !;,' �`
Guideline
30
mg /L'.5
250
mg/L6
0.03
mg /L2
1.0/2.5
mg /L3.4
0.02 mg /L2
6 mg /L2
Data Sources: Regional Watershed Monitoring Network and City of Toronto Lake and Stream Sampling Program.
Guideline Sources: 1. (EIFAC, 1965) 2. Provincial Water Quality Objectives (MOE, 1999b); 3. (CAST, 1992) 4. (Rouse et al.,
1999); 5. Canadian Water Quality Guidelines (CCME, 1999), 6. (EC & HC, 2001)
CULTURAL HERITAGE
• Four hundred and forty (440) archaeological sites have been located within the Humber
River watershed to date. These sites represent a use of the watershed for thousands of
years by both Aboriginal peoples and Euro- Canadians;
• Examination of the municipal built heritage inventories located a total of 1,401 individual
built heritage features, of which 86 properties are Designated;
• A total of 11 built heritage properties have been identified by TRCA staff that are neither
Listed nor Designated;
• Since 2003, a considerable amount of resources have been added to the
archaeological and built heritage inventories. An increase of 442 (46.2 %) built heritage
features and 123 (38.8 %) archaeological sites has been recorded. The significant
increase of documented cultural heritage features continues a positive trend in the
process of their identification, a first step for their protection and preservation;
• The City of Toronto and The City of Vaughan have recently provided on -line searchable
databases and interactive maps of heritage properties within their jurisdictions;
• Only 21 additional built heritage features were Designated since 2000;
• Thirty -five (35) built . heritage features have been demolished or destroyed by fire since
2000;
• Recent amendments to the Ontario Heritage Act should contribute to the identification,
protection, preservation and restoration of archaeological sites and built heritage
features.
Heritage Designation of Built Heritage Sites By Municipali
Municipality
Heritage
T
0
Toronto
Vaughan*
Brampton
Richmond
Hill
Caledon
King
Mono
Adjala-
djala-
Tosorontio
Designation
A
L
Designated
16
28*
3
31
7
1
86
Listed
227
512*
42
48
6
229
3
10
1077
De- listed
1
1
Demolished
20
20
3
11
15
2
3
74
Mills
29
2
3
34
February 21, 2006
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06
G15
Heritage
Designation
Municipality
T
O
T
A
L
Toronto
Vaughan*
Brampton
Richmond
Hill
Caledon
King
Mono
Adjala-
Tosorontio
Cemetery
24
23
8
1
32
17
2
1
108
Plaque
7
2
1
10
TRCA
Listed
11
11
TOTAL
1 294
585
56
1 60
1 99 1 280
10
1 17 1 1401
• Kleinburg- Nashville Heritage Conservation District includes numerous modem structures. These modern private
homes are listed on the city of Vaughan's database although many of these structures have no cultural heritage
significance of their own. This listing procedure should be re- evaluated, and perhaps these structures should
receive a separate listing category.
PUBLIC USE
• Within the Humber River watershed, 10,475 hectares is available for public use which
represents approximately 12% of the total watershed area;
• There are 8,655 hectares of greenspace5 in the Humber River watershed. Most of the
greenspace is owned by the TRCA (6,644 hectares);
• TRCA acquired approximately 110 hectares of greenspace between 2000 and 2004;
• Located on the Kortright Centre for Conservation property, the Earth Rangers building
was opened in 2003 and acts as the base of operations for Kortright's education and
wildlife programs. It houses a small theatre, interactive educational displays and some
of the most specialized wildlife facilities in Canada. The building acts as a showpiece of
environmental responsibility, using radiant heating and cooling technology, a
sophisticated wastewater system, and solar panels to heat the water. Wherever
possible, environmentally advanced building materials were used, such as recycled
plastic roof tiles, interface carpet tiles, and eco- friendly paints;
• The length of inter - regional trails in the Humber River watershed totals 212.7 km. The
total length of inter - regional trails has increased by 29 km since 2000 and an additional
15 km of inter - regional trails are proposed to be built in the watershed;
• Numerous municipalities have proposed new local trails in the Humber River
watershed, totaling 168 km in length. Brampton's proposed system is the most
extensive, with over 134 km of trails proposed in their PathWays Master Plan;
• There are 24 golf courses in the Humber River watershed. These include private (8),
semi - private (1) and public facilities (15). There has been a growing effort among some
golf course managers to reduce negative impacts on the watershed and incorporate
more natural landscaping. Of the 24 golf courses in the Humber River watershed, four
courses (Diamond Back Golf Club in Richmond Hill, Nobleton Lakes Golf Club in King
Township, Oakdale Golf and Country Club and the Toronto Board of Trade Golf
Course, both in Toronto) are Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries. As such, they
5 Greenspace is defined as all publicly -owned land, including municipal parks and conservation lands, but
not including golf courses and cemeteries.
G16
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
contribute to the conservation of resources and the protection of both common and rare
plants and wildlife by implementing environmental practices.
TRCA Land Acquisition and Dis
Year
1 Land Acquired (hectares)
I Land Sold (hectares)
2000
14.4
0.2
2001
2.2
0.8
2002
58.1
0.1
2003
0.8
0.0
2004
34.7
6.3
Total
110.3
7.4
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Staff will report on key findings from the remaining technical background reports on
Fluvial Geomorphology, Groundwater System, Land and Resource Use, Low Stream
Flow/Water Use, Policy Framework, and Terrestrial System at the next Humber Alliance
meeting on April 18t 2006.
• Staff will incorporate findings from phase 1 of the Humber River Watershed Planning
Study into the next edition of the Humber Watershed Report Card, which is anticipated
to be completed in 2006.
• Staff invite Humber Alliance members to review technical background .reports of interest
to them and to provide their comments to Dean Young by March 17, 2006.
RES. #G5/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
2006 HABITAT REGENERATION PROJECTS - HUMBER WATERSHED
Approved TRCA 2006 capital budgets for regeneration projects in the
Humber watershed.
Sharon Bradley
Jim Bradley
THAT the report on the 2006 Habitat Regeneration Projects in the Humber watershed be
received;
AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members continue to have an active role
in finalizing design details and implementation of the 2006 habitat regeneration projects.
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G17
AMENDMENT
RES. #G6/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Deb Schulte
Sharon Bradley
THAT staff report to the Humber Watershed Alliance the amount of funding TRCA receives
from all partners with regard to the approved 2006 regeneration projects in the Humber
watershed.
THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED
THE MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The Regions of York and Peel, and the City of Toronto have allocated funding to support the
goals of the Humber Watershed Strategy and the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan
(RAP). The following is a list of approved projects in the Humber watershed for 2006.
`PROJECT
DESCRIPTION 5 =
MUNICIPALITY
-
2006..
'ALLOCATION _
William Granger
Greenway
Riparian plantings, natural environment
interpretive signs, community outreach
and post project monitoring
York Region
$10,000
Lake Wilcox Habitat
Improvement
Implement pilot projects with the
assistance of the Humber Watershed
Alliance members, educational signage,
community information sessions
York Region
$20,000
East Humber Riparian
Planting
Riparian planting
York Region
$2,500
Eaton Hall Wetland/
Seneca College
Wetland enhancement, reforestation,
increase riparian cover, create critical
habitat features
York Region
$15,000
Cold Creek
Management Plan
Implementation
Forest and riparian planting, community
environmental events, boardwalk repairs
in ESA
York Region
$15,000
Nashville Natural Area
Enhancement
Inventory and prepare forest
management prescriptions, reforestation
York Region
$10,000
G18 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06
February 21, 2006
Woodbridge
Expansion Area CAS
Construction of wetlands based on City
of Vaughan plans, reforestation, riparian
planting and habitat enhancements
York Region
$15,000
Claireville Habitat
Restoration / Claireville
Stewardship
Wetland enhancement, forest
management, riparian planting and
reforestation, critical habitat features
installation (nesting structures),
community stewardship initiatives
Peel Region
$65,000
Bolton Community
Action Site
Tree and shrub planting
Peel Region
$10,000
Caledon East
Community Action
Site
Tree and shrub planting
Peel Region
$10,000
Centreville Creek -
Taylor Pond
Restore and protect riparian habitat,
removal of in- stream barrier, implement
an erosion containment strategy,
outreach and education, community
plantings, community monitoring and
installation of interpretive signage
Peel Region
$20,000
Centreville Creek
Stewardship
Naturalizations, habitat improvements,
private land resource management and
outreach /education programs
Peel Region
$35,000
Palgrave Fishway and
Riparian Planting
Riparian planting and fishway
enhancements
Peel Region
$5,000
Oak Ridges Moraine
CPA 2
Reforestation, riparian habitat, wetland
creation, landowner contact program
Peel Region
$145,000
Eglinton Flats Pond
Restoration
Habitat enhancements, educational
signage
City of Toronto
$10,000
Humber Community
Environmental
Projects
Downsview Earth Day planting, Humber
savannah rehabilitation, Black Creek
riparian planting and restoration
City of Toronto
$20,000
West Humber Park
Habitat protection and enhancement,
interpretive signage •
City of Toronto
$10,000
Lower. Humber Barrier
Mitigation
Notch two fish barriers
City of Toronto
$2.0,000
February 21, 2006
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06
G19
Humber Habitat
Creation of wetland cover, forest cover, .
City of Toronto
$30,000
Implementation Plan
riparian cover, and critical habitat
York Region
$13,200
features
Peel Region
$50,000
Indian Line
Forest cover, riparian cover, wetland
City of Toronto
$25,000
Campground/
Claireville Reservoir
cover, shoreline enhancement, aquatic
habitat, community stewardship
Peel Region
$40,000 .
Naturalization
TOTAL $595,700
Additional funding from other sources for the above projects is anticipated to total over
$633,000. Agencies such as the Ontario Trillium Foundation, Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation,
Great Lakes Sustainability Fund, Trout Unlimited, TD Friends of the Environment, Environment
Canada, Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of the Environment and others have contributed
significant funding and resources to many of the above listed projects.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Finalize project designs;
• Obtain appropriate approvals;
• Seek matching funds;
• Engage local stakeholders to assist with the implementation of appropriate
elements of the project.
RES. #G7/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
OAK RIDGES CORRIDOR PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN UDPATE
Executive Summary and Table of Contents for the Oak Ridges Corridor
Park Management Plan as prepared by AMEC Earth and Environmental.
John Willetts
Jim Bradley
THAT the update on the Oak Ridges Corridor Park be received;
THAT the managers of the property, once determined, be requested to adopt the TRCA
Community Action Site model as a means for employing the skills, experience and knowledge
of interested stakeholders to implement the Oak Ridges Corridor Park Management Plan;
AND FURTHER THAT a copy of the final Oak Ridges Corridor Park Management Plan be
provided to interested members of the Humber Watershed Alliance, when
completed CARRIED
G20 HUMBER WATERSHED AWANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
BACKGROUND
The Oak Ridges Corridor Park is an area approximately 400 ha (1,000 acres) generally located
between Bathurst Street and Bayview Avenue, north of Jefferson Sideroad, and south of the
community of Oak Ridges, in the Town of Richmond Hill. The Province of Ontario has
requested that TRCA act as their agent in the development of a management plan for the
property, recognizing TRCA's proven ability to work with public and private stakeholders to
achieve ecological restoration objectives within its area of jurisdiction.
On May 27, 2005, the Authority authorized staff to hire AMEC Earth and Environmental to work
with TRCA and its Advisory Committee to prepare a management plan for the Oak Ridges
Corridor Park.
Five Advisory Committee meetings and three public meetings have been held to seek input in
developing a management plan for the property.
In Phase I of the project, background information about the property was assembled, a vision
and set of goals and objectives were established, the primary trail alignment was identified and
designed, an assessment of the Bathurst Glen Golf Course was completed and several 'quick -
start' restoration projects were identified.
Phase 2 involved the preparation of the ecological protection and restoration requirements,
completion of the trail master plan, heritage protection and appreciation, education, monitoring
and financial information.
The Humber Watershed Alliance representative on the Advisory Committee was originally
Royce Fu. Because of work commitments, Royce was replaced by Jim Bradley as the Alliance
representative as per Resolution #G57/05 adopted at meeting #4/05 on October 18, 2005.
AMEC Earth and Environmental has recently submitted the draft management plan to the
Advisory Committee for review and comments.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Seek input from the Advisory Committee on the draft management plan and
finalize the plan by February, 2006;
• Owners of the land, TRCA and the Province need to sign the collaborative
agreement which will facilitate the construction of the primary spine trail and
make the pledged $3.5 million available for implementing the plan;
• TRCA and the Province to finalize an agreement whereby TRCA would become
the managers of the property subject to available . funding and other acceptable
terms and conditions;
• TRCA to make arrangements to operate the Bathurst Glen Golf Course for the
2006 season;
• Distribute the completed Oak Ridges Corridor Park Management Plan to
Advisory Committee members for endorsement by their respective agency or
group;
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G21
Establish a Stewardship Committee consisting of representatives from
municipalities, province, interest groups, education institutions and local
residents to implement the management plan.
RES. #G8/06 - SNOW DISPOSAL SITES
Study of snow disposal sites in the City of Toronto.
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Jane Underhill
Ron Hingston
THAT interested members of the Planning and Policy Subcommittee of the Humber
Watershed Alliance meet to review the report on snow disposal sites, prepare comments and
send these comments to the City of Toronto on behalf of the Humber Watershed Alliance by
February 6, 2006;
AND FURTHER THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance comments on the snow disposal
study in the City of Toronto be forwarded to the Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition,
Don Regeneration Council, the Rouge Park Alliance and the Duffins- Carruthers Task Force
for their information CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The City of Toronto has completed a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) study into the
conceptual design of environmental mitigation measures at nine snow disposal sites. The
conceptual designs have been developed to remediate impacts related to meltwater surface
runoff and infiltration into the groundwater as well as other mitigation measures associated with
noise, visual aesthetics, dust/litter, traffic movement and light pollution.
The study was undertaken in accordance with the requirements for Schedule 'B' projects under
the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, June 2000 (Class EA). The study identified
and evaluated alternative mitigation measures and solicited input from the public, interested
parties /groups /agencies and recommended a preferred conceptual design for each site.
The Schedule 'B' Class EA report has been completed and is being placed on the public
record for a 30 -day review. Subject to comments received, the City intends to proceed to the
detailed design phase and construction of the preferred conceptual design at one of the sites.
The approach will help assess the performance in water quality improvements and other
related benefits from the construction of the remediation works before proceeding with the
remaining sites.
If concerns regarding this project cannot be resolved in discussion with the City, a person may
request the Minister of the Environment to issue an order to comply with Part II of the
Environmental Assessment Act (referred to as Part II Order) which addresses individual
G22 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
environmental assessments. The Minister must receive requests for a Part II Order by
February 6, 2006. Comments should be addressed to the Ministry of the Environment, 135 St.
Clair Avenue West, 12th Floor, Toronto, M4V 1 P5.
A copy of the request for a Part II Order must be sent to the City of Toronto. If there is no
request for a Part II Order received by February 6, 2006, implementation of the preferred
conceptual designs, as presented in the Schedule 'B' Class EA, will proceed.
Opportunities to review the EA report are available by visiting the website at
www.toronto.ca/involved/projects
The contact person at the City of Toronto is Louis Tinker, Public Consultation Coordinator, City
of Toronto, Metro Hall, 19`h Floor, 55 John Street, Toronto, M5V 2C6.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Review the study report and provide comments to the City of Toronto by
February 6, 2006.
RES. #G9/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
MEMBERSHIP IN THE ONTARIO NATURE NETWORK
The Humber Watershed Alliance will pursue membership in the Ontario
• Nature Network as a volunteer training and networking opportunity.
Sharon Bradley
Hugh Mitchell
•
THAT staff investigate applying on behalf of the Humber Watershed Alliance for membership
in the Ontario Nature Network;
AND FURTHER THAT Joanne Nonnekes be appointed as the group contact for the Humber
Watershed Alliance should membership be obtained CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The Nature Network is an Ontario Nature (formerly Federation of Ontario Naturalists) initiative
which connects people who are working to make their communities better places in which to
live. It is a vehicle which brings provincial initiatives to the local level and brings the local efforts
and concerns of community groups to provincial attention.
As part of the Nature Network, Ontario Nature has also recently launched the Building Ontario's
Nature Network project - a four year initiative funded by The Ontario Trillium Foundation . The
goals of the project are to provide support to the Nature Network by establishing and
supporting regional conservation offices and to celebrate the conservation successes of the
Nature Network.
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G23
Building Ontario's Nature Network provides support to member groups through three regional
coordinators who act as information conduits between the provincial and local levels. The
coordinators serve as resource people to the Nature Network for information on provincial and
local conservation issues. Supporting the Nature Network involves answering inquiries,
providing conservation expertise and providing conservation problem - solving advice to
member groups. The media campaign communicates the message of nature protection to a
wide spectrum of people across Ontario, and helps to promote a conservation ethic that
honours responsibility and care for the environment. Regional meetings are held which are a
great opportunity for members to meet other groups in the area, share ideas, and hear from
guest speakers.
Members of the Humber Watershed Alliance expressed interest in applying for membership in
the Ontario Nature Network as a volunteer training and networking opportunity. The Nature
Network asked that a representative be established as the main point of contact for the
member group. Correspondence will be directed to this individual and then distributed to other
members. Joanne Nonnekes has offered to provide this service to the Alliance should it be
granted membership.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
The cost for membership in the Ontario Nature Network is $75.00 annually for groups of less
than 100 people. Funding will be utilized from the Humber Watershed Strategies account and
is currently only committed for 2006.
RES. #G10/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER REPORT CARD
To provide an update on the Humber Report Card and to clarify when
and how members of the Humber Watershed Alliance will have
opportunities to review the report card indicators.
Deb Schulte
John Willetts
THAT the staff report on the Humber Report Card - 2006 be received;
THAT since time is of the essence, Humber Watershed Alliance members be notified when
the draft text is available for watershed health indicators so interested members may request
copies, review and provide comments to staff in a timely fashion;
AND FURTHER THAT the next to final text be brought to the Humber Watershed Alliance at
the regularly scheduled meetings in April and July when major comments and suggestions
may be provided CARRIED
G24 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
BACKGROUND
The Humber Watershed Alliance released A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed in 2000. This award - winning document provided an initial assessment of the health
of the Humber River watershed. The Humber Watershed Alliance has a commitment to
providing a report on the health of the Humber every three years. In 2003, a Progress Report
was published to provide an update on 15 key indicators. The 2006 Report Card will provide an
update on all 28 of the original indicators.
The Report Card Subcommittee has commented on eight indicators. A review of survey
questions for a public opinion survey have been prepared. The primary purpose is to gain
insight into public knowledge of TRCA, attitudes and behaviours related to sustainable use of
resources. The survey will be conducted some time after the federal election. A table of rating
criteria that will clarify the meaning of the letter grades for each indicator will replace the
"Targets" section (i.e. A = zero smog days per year, B = 3 smog days per year, etc.). Timed
goals to strive for will be moved to the "How to get there" section of each indicator (i.e. All mill
sites along the Humber River will be identified by 2010).
Members of the Alliance will be provided with next to final text for the Report Card two weeks
prior to the April and July 2006 Humber Watershed Alliance meetings. Members of the Alliance
will be requested to provide the Report Card Subcommittee with comments related to any
major errors or omissions in the text (i.e. not for grammar or style). It was recommended by
the Subcommittee that the final sign off be delegated to the Report Card Subcommittee. Any
members of the Alliance who are interested in joining the Report Card Subcommittee in a more
detailed review of the text, to join the Humber Report Card Subcommittee, or to receive the
draft indicators as they are developed should contact Karen Sun at the TRCA.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Staff to finalize public opinion survey questions and hire a consultant to carry out the
survey (February 2006)
• Staff to complete drafting of indicators (January-May 2006);
• Report Card Subcommittee and members of the Humber Watershed Alliance to review
and comment on text (January- July 2006);
• Report Card Subcommittee to sign off on final text (August 2006);
• Staff to layout and design the Humber Report Card (August- September 2006);
• Report Card Subcommittee to sign off on final design (September 2006);
• Production (September- October 2006);
• Distribution /Media Release /Event (October 2006).
February 21, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/06 G25
RES. #G11/06 - SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
The minutes of the following working group are provided for information.
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Nancy Stewart
Madeleine McDowell
THAT the following minutes be received:
• Bolton CAS Steering Committee #5/05, #6/05 and #1/06
(Oct. 20, Nov. 17 and Jan. 19);
• Cold Creek Stewardship Committee #9/05, #10/05, #11/05 and #1/06
(Sept. 28, Oct. 26, Dec. 7 and Jan. 11);
• East Humber Subwatershed Committee #6/05 and #7/05
(Nov. 15 and Nov. 24);
• Lower Humber Subwatershed Committee #6/05 (Nov. 15);
• West Humber Subwatershed Committee #6/05 , #7/05 and #1/06
(Nov. 8, Dec. 13 and Feb. 14);
• Report Card Subcommittee #5/05, #1/06 and #2/06
(Nov. 30, Jan. 11 and Feb. 6) CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
Pine Valley Extension Proposal Nixed
D. Schulte was pleased to report that the Ontario government has stepped in to permanently
protect Boyd Park which was under threat from a proposal to build a four -lane highway though
the area. In order to permanently protect this property, the Pine Valley Drive extension will be
removed from York Region and City of Vaughan's Pine Valley Transportation Corridor
Individual Environmental Assessment.
On behalf of the Humber Watershed Alliance, the Chair congratulated the Friends of Boyd
Park, Environmental Defence and all the other individuals who were involved in bringing about
this positive result.
i
G26 HUMBER WATERSHED AWANCE #1/06 February 21, 2006
Henry Kock
M. McDowell regretfully informed the Humber Watershed Alliance members of Mr. Henry
Kock's passing on Christmas Day at the age of 53. Mr. Kock was a renowned horticulturalist
who was dedicated to finding ways for saving the American elm. He headed up the American
Elm Preservation Project.
RES. #G12 /06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Ron Hingston
THAT a tree be planted in the Humber watershed in memory of Mr. Henry Kock;
THAT staff be directed to submit an Honour Roll Award application for TRCA's consideration;
AND FURTHER THAT the Humber Arboretum be explored as a possible venue for a tree
being planted in memory of Mr. Kock in the event one cannot be planted on TRCA
land CARRIED
DOOR PRIZE
As a token of the Authority's appreciation for the members' participation on the Humber
Alliance, G. Wilkins advised that door prizes will be drawn at the end of each Alliance meeting.
The door prizes available at this meeting were two fleece cardigans with the Humber logo
embossed on it as well as Ron Fletcher's book titled, "The Humber: Tales of a Canadian
Heritage River ". The winning tickets belonged to Peter Telford, Deb Schulte and Royce Fu,
respectively.
TERMINATION
ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 8:30 p.m., February 21, 2006.
Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney
Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer
/L.
THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE
MINUTES OF MEETING #2/06
AUTHORITY
MEETING #5/06
JUNE 23, 2006
THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2106 Page G27
April 18, 2006
The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, April 18,
2006. Lois Griffin, Chair of the Humber Alliance, called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m.
PRESENT
Sandy Agnew Member
Bill Boston Member
Jim Bradley Member
Sharon Bradley Member
lain Craig Member
Dianne Douglas Member
Yvette Fournier Member
Brenda Fowler Member
Krisann Graf Member
Lois Griffin Chair
Suzan Hall Member
Alyson Hazlett Member
Ron Hingston Member
David Hutcheon Member
Kathrine Mabley Member
Madeleine McDowell Member
Joan Miles Alternate Member
Hugh Mitchell Member
Arthur Mittermaier Member
Miriam Mittermaier Member
Joanne Nonnekes Member
Brendan O'Hara Member
Yamile Rijo Member
Lynda Rogers Member
Deb Schulte Member
Lynn Short Member
Rolande Smith Member
Peter Telford Member
Horst Truttenbach Member
Richard Whitehead Member
John Willetts Member
Bill Wilson Member
G28 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
GUESTS
Susan Horvath Black Creek Project
Teri Burgess Resident
Kim McNeilly Resident
STAFF
Mike Bender Supervisor, Conservation Land Planning
Deanna Cheriton Conservation Land Planner
Don Ford Manager, Geoenvironmental
Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber
Kasey Livingston Project Ecologist, Claireville Community Stewardship Project
Karen Sun Watershed Resources Planner, Humber
Lisa Turnbull Project Manager, Humber
Alex Waters Manager, Kortright Centre
Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber
RES. #G13/06 - MINUTES
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Dianne Douglas
Deb Schulte
THAT the Minutes of Meeting #1/06, held on February 21, 2006, be approved .... CARRIED
BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
(a) Henry Kock
In accordance with resolution #G12/06, adopted at Humber Watershed Alliance meeting
#1/06, held on February 21, 2006, staff investigated the possibility of having a tree planted at
the Humber Arboretum in memory of Mr. Henry Kock. The Humber Arboretum has since
informed TRCA that they would be willing to plant a tree, and accompanying plaque, in Mr.
Kock's memory. It was suggested that a Freedom Elm would be an appropriate tree.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G29
CORRESPONDENCE
(a) Letter from the Humber Watershed Alliance to Mayor Di Biase, dated March 7, 2006, re:
Pine Valley Link Decision
(b) Letter from the Don Watershed Regeneration Council (DWRC), dated March 27, 2006,
re: DWRC comments on the proposed changes to Ontario's building code to increase
the energy efficiency of buildings
(c) Letter from the Don Watershed Regeneration Council (DWRC), dated March 30, 2006,
re: DWRC comments on Ontario Regulation 339
(d) News Release from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, dated March 28, 2006, re: Company
Pleads Guilty to Destroying Fish Habitat for Stream Crossing in a Residential
Development
RES. #G14/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Richard Whitehead
Miriam Mittermaier
THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED
PRESENTATIONS
(a) Lake Ontario Salmon Reintroduction Program
This presentation was withdrawn from the agenda and deferred to a future meeting, if
appropriate.
(b) TRCA Vision for the Living City Campus at the Kortright Centre for Conservation
B. Denney gave a brief presentation on the proposed Living City Campus of the Boyd North
and Glassco Park Management Plan and described the intent of the campus concept.
RES. #G15/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Joanne Nonnekes
Deb Schulte
THAT TRCA staff invite several Humber Watershed Alliance members to provide input into
the illustration to be prepared that captures the general concepts of the Living City
Campus CARRIED
G30 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2106 April 18, 2006
RES. #G16/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER WATERSHED PLANNING STUDY - SUMMARY OF KEY
FINDINGS FROM PHASE I TECHNICAL BACKGROUND REPORTS -
PART 2
Summary of key findings from Phase I of the Humber Watershed Plan
update on current conditions of fluvial geomorphology and surface water
quantity.
Bill Wilson
David Hutcheon
THAT the report summarizing key findings from Fluvial Geomorphology and Surface Water
Quantity technical background reports be received;
THAT staff report on key findings from the remaining technical background reports on the
Groundwater System and Land and Resource Use at the next Humber Watershed Alliance
meeting on July 18, 2006;
AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members review and provide comments
to Dean Young on the draft phase 1 technical background reports.
AMENDMENT
RES. #G17/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Bill Wilson
Richard Whitehead
THAT the following Humber Watershed Alliance members be invited to review and comment
on the draft phase 1 technical background reports by April 21, 2006:
Lynn Short Groundwater
Yamile Rijo Public Use and Land and Resource Use
Rolande Smith Cultural Heritage
THAT the reasons for the differences in sampling and laboratory analytical protocols referred
to in the Surface Water Quality Report be explained and that assurances be made that, in
future, such inconsistencies will not occur;
THAT a pilot project to improve water quality be considered between TRCA and the Town of
Caledon which goes beyond best management practices in a more aggressive, focussed
and frequent manner;
AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff report back on the feasibility of same.
THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED
THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G31
BACKGROUND
In support of the Humber River Watershed Planning Study, information gathering and technical
study was initiated in 2004 to describe current conditions in the Humber River watershed, to
identify current watershed management issues of concern, and future trends.
Studies and information gathering was undertaken for the following watershed components:
1. Air Quality;
2. Aquatic System;
3. Cultural Heritage;
4. Fluvial Geomorphology;
5. Groundwater System;
6. Land and Resource Use;
7. Policy Framework;
8. Public Use;
9. Surface Water Quality;
10. Surface Water Quantity (including Low Stream Flow and Water Use); and
11. Terrestrial System.
Draft technical background reports have been prepared, or are in the process of being
prepared, to summarize the findings from each of these component studies. At Humber
Watershed Alliance meeting #1/06, the following members offered to review and provide
comments:
Lynn Short
Bill Wilson
Peter Telford
John Willetts
Madeleine McDowell
Royce Fu
Sharon Bradley
- Aquatic System
- Surface Water Quality
- Air Quality and Policy Framework
- Public Use
- Cultural Heritage
- Policy Framework
- Terrestrial System
The following summary provides highlights from the Fluvial Geomorphology and Surface Water
Quantity technical background reports.
FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY
To track changes in physical characteristics of stream channels and associated aquatic
habitats, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) initiated a Tong -term
monitoring program that focuses on a selected number of monitoring sites. In the
Humber River watershed, as part of the Regional Watershed Monitoring Program
(RWMP), 35 fluvial geomorphology monitoring sites were established in 2001 that are
representative of the range of stream channel types and characteristics in the
watershed. At each site standard fluvial geomorphology measurement techniques were
used to characterize channel form and benchmarks were set up to enable repeated
surveys within a 3 -year period.
G32 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
Detailed reach -based assessments of channel, bank and substrate characteristics have
also been completed for portions of the stream network within Centreville Creek and
Cold Creek subwatersheds in support of subwatershed planning studies.
Findings from an historical analysis of changes to the stream channel between 1954
and 1999 did not identify many major changes over the period examined at RWMP
monitoring sites. Channel migration rates could not be estimated for 19 of the
monitoring stations either due to a lack of aerial photo coverage over the period
examined, or because vegetation obscured the stream channel in the aerial photo.
Migration rates were estimated for 5 of the 35 Humber River stations. At the remaining
11 stations, no changes in channel location were detected or migration rates over the
period examined were negligible.
Based on assessments conducted in 2001(baseline year) 20% of the 35 fluvial
geomorphology monitoring stations in the Humber River were rated as having stream
channels of low stability. The majority of monitoring locations were rated as having
moderately stable stream channels (69 %). Only 11% of the monitoring locations were
rated as having highly stable stream channels.
SURFACE WATER QUANTITY
• The Humber River Watershed contains many significant Iandforms, such as the Niagara
Escarpment, Oak Ridges Moraine, and Iroquois Sand Plain which have a significant
influence on surface flow characteristics through the watershed.
• The Humber River Watershed can be subdivided into 24 secondary subwatersheds,
which range in condition from entirely rural to entirely developed. Past development
practices have significantly impacted the natural surface water flow regimes.
• Significant development occurred in the Black Creek subwatershed in the City of
Toronto prior to the adoption of modern flood hazard management and stormwater
management practices. As a result, a considerable number of older structures in the
subwatershed are at risk of flooding during severe storm events similar in magnitude to
Hurricane Hazel.
• The municipalities of Brampton and Vaughan have undergone rapid urbanization in
recent years, and continue to further urbanize. While this development has employed
more modern water management practices, the impacts of such development on the
receiving surface water systems has yet to be determined.
• A total of 262 individual water withdrawals were identified within the Humber River
Watershed, with complete water taking details available for 165 of these users. From
these data, total allocation of surface water for withdrawal from the watershed in an
average year is approximately 2.3% of available baseflow.
• Water takings in the Humber River watershed is predominantly for agricultural irrigation
purposes, which accounts for 44% of the total annual withdrawals. Water takings for
commercial uses and water supply are also major use sectors, comprising 18% and
21 % of the total annual withdrawals respectively.
• Reaches in the West Humber subwatershed are currently the most at risk of
downstream impacts from surface water takings. There are 26 known water takings in
this subwatershed, with 73% withdrawing water for agricultural purposes (livestock and
agriculture). On a subwatershed scale, 18% of the available baseflow discharge is
allocated for withdrawals by approved permits to take water.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G33
• The East Humber subwatershed contains the largest number of_surface water takings in
the Humber Watershed, with a total of 18 users, 7 of which are potentially having ahigh
impact on the baseflow system. These users are primarily agriculture operations,
however one golf course is included. This golf course has been working with the TRCA
and MOE to reduce the risk of downstream impacts from their water takings.
• The portion of the Main Humber subwatershed upstream of Albion Hills Conservation
Area (Upper Main and Centreville Creek subwatersheds) contribute nearly 40% of total
stream flow from the Humber River during baseflow conditions. Other subwatersheds
that are major contributors to baseflow in the Humber River include:
- Cold Creek subwatershed (8% - 11.4% of total baseflow output);
- Purpleville Creek subwatershed (4.3% - 13.3% of total baseflow output); and,
- Lower - Lambton to Mouth subwatershed (7.4% - 18.5% of total baseflow output).
• Net decreases in baseflow were observed along the main channels of the Main and
East Humber, ranging from 4.3% - 4.9% of total baseflow output. These reaches are
believed to be located in groundwater recharge areas. None of these losses were
linked directly to water use.Rainbow Creek showed intermittent stream flow
characteristics in 2004, and was contributing less than 1% of the total baseflow output
from the Humber River in 1995.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
•
Staff will report on key findings from the remaining technical background reports on the
Groundwater System and Land and Resource Use at the next Humber Watershed
Alliance meeting on July 18, 2006.
Staff will incorporate findings from phase 1 of the Humber River Watershed Planning
Study into the next edition of the Humber Watershed Report Card, which is anticipated
to be completed in 2006.
Staff invite Humber Watershed Alliance members to review technical background
reports of interest to them and to provide their comments to Dean Young by April 21,
2006.
RES. #G18/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER REPORT CARD INDICATORS #16 - #21
To provide an update on the Humber Report Card and provide some
indicators ( #16 - #21) for the Humber Watershed Alliance review.
Madeleine McDowell
Lynn Short
. THAT the staff report on the Humber Report Card Indicators #16 - #21 be received;
THAT members of the Humber Watershed Alliance review and provide major comments and
suggestions on the next to final text for Indicators #16 - #21;
G34 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
AND FURTHER THAT additional indicators be brought to the Humber Watershed Alliance at
the regularly scheduled meeting in July, 2006 when major comments and suggestions may
be provided CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The Humber Watershed Alliance released A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed in 2000. This award - winning document provided an initial assessment of the health
of the Humber River watershed. The Humber Watershed Alliance has a commitment to
providing a report on the health of the Humber every three years. In 2003, a Progress Report
was published to provide an update on current efforts related to 15 key indicators. The 2006
Report Card will provide an update on watershed condition for 27 out of 28 of the original
indicators. After lengthy discussions, the Report Card Committee recommended that Indicator
#26: Aesthetics be removed for the 2006 Report Card.
The Report Card Subcommittee has approved a next to final copy of the text for the following
indicators:
• #16 - Air Quality
• #17 - Heritage Resources
• #18 - Heritage Events
• #19 - Public Greenspace
• #20 - Outdoor Recreation
• #21 - Trails
Members of the Alliance are requested to provide the Report Card Subcommittee with
comments related to any major errors or omissions in the text (i.e. not for grammar or style).
Comments should be provided to Karen Sun by email - ksun @trca.on.ca,
phone - (416)661 -6600, extension 5291, or fax (416)667 -6278.
Any members of the Alliance who are interested in joining the Report Card Subcommittee to
provide a more detailed review of the text is welcome to join the Humber Report Card
Subcommittee by contacting Karen Sun at the TRCA.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Staff to finalize public opinion survey questions and hire a consultant to carry out
the survey (February 2006)
• Staff to complete drafting of indicators (January-May 2006);
• Report Card Subcommittee and members of the Humber Watershed Alliance to
review and comment on text (January- July 2006);
• Report Card Subcommittee to sign off on final text (August 2006);
• Staff to layout and design the Humber Report Card (August- September 2006);
• Report Card Subcommittee to sign off on final design (September 2006);
• Production (September - October 2006);
• Distribution /Media Release /Event (October 2006).
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G35
RES. #G19/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY - 2006
The preparation of a public opinion survey for residents of the Humber
River watershed.
Deb Schulte
Hugh Mitchell
THAT the staff report on the Humber Public Opinion Survey - 2006 be received;
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance provide comments to Karen Sun by April 28, 2006
related to the draft public opinion questions;
AND FURTHER THAT. a terms of reference be developed for the public opinion survey and
that a consultant be hired to finalize and conduct the survey CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The Humber Watershed Alliance released A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed in 2000. This award - winning document provided an initial assessment of the health
of the Humber River watershed. The Humber Watershed Alliance has a commitment to provide
a report on the health of the Humber every three years.
Part of the research for the original Report Card was a public opinion survey regarding the
awareness, attitudes, and behaviours of watershed residents. This information was critical to
reporting on some of the indicators, including Outdoor Recreation, Community Stewardship
and the Sustainable Use of Resources.
As per the original survey this survey will be designed to investigate issues such as:
the level of awareness of TRCA
attitudes and behaviours related to sustainable living styles.
the community's perceptions on the degree of watershed health;
the level of usage of the Humber River watershed for recreation and education
experiences;
the degree of satisfaction for recreation and tourism opportunities;
the level of awareness of the watershed's heritage;
the level of environmentally friendly attitudes and behaviours;
the level of awareness and support of regeneration programs;
Members of the Alliance are requested to provide the Report Card Subcommittee with
comments related to any major errors or omissions in the survey questions (i.e. not for
grammar or style). The precise wording will be developed with the assistance of the consultant
to maximize the usefulness of the information. Comments should be provided to Karen Sun by
e -mail: ksun @trca.on.ca, phone: (416)661 -6600, extension 5291, or fax: (416)667 -6278, by
April 28, 2006.
G36 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Finalize public opinion survey questions and hire a consultant to carry out the
survey (April 2006);
• Incorporate the outcomes of the survey into the report card indicator
descriptions and measurements.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Funds have been identified as part of the Humber Watershed Management Budget. Final
decisions will be made subject to the proposed costs submitted by the consulting companies.
RES. #G20/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
WET WEATHER FLOW MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
The appointment of a Humber Watershed Alliance representative to the
City of Toronto's Wet Weather Flow Master Plan Implementation Advisory
Committee.
Sharon Bradley
Miriam Mittermaier
THAT the letter and accompanying Terms of Reference with regard to the City of Toronto's
Wet Weather Flow Master Plan Implementation Advisory Committee, dated February 9, 2006,
be received;
THAT Madeleine McDowell be appointed as the Humber Watershed Alliance representative
on the City of Toronto's Wet Weather Flow Master Plan Implementation Advisory Committee;
AND FURTHER THAT members of the Humber Watershed Alliance assist with the
identification and implementation of priority stormwater management projects within the City
of Toronto CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The City of Toronto has prepared a master plan for the management of its wet weather flow
(stormwater and combined sewer overflow). The study covers the entire City and extends
across six major watersheds within its boundaries.
Initiated in 1997, the study has been developed in a staged manner under the class
environmental assessment process involving extensive public consultation.
The goal of the Wet Weather Flow Management Master Plan (WWFMP) is to reduce and
ultimately eliminate the adverse effects of wet weather flow on the built and natural environment
in a timely and sustainable manner, and to achieve a measurable improvement in the
ecosystem health of the watersheds.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G37
The City of Toronto is establishing an Implementation Advisory Committee for the WWFMP
which will:
provide advice that will facilitate the implementation of the WWFMP
Implementation Plan as approved by City Council;
comment on the workplan established by Toronto Water for the implementation
of the WWFMP;
promote source controls for stormwater management by property owners and
new development;
provide advice on raising awareness of stormwater issues and promote the
implementation of the WWFMP; and
provide input on the annual report on the implementation of the WWFMP
prepared by Toronto Water staff.
The Humber Watershed Alliance has been invited to appoint a representative to the Wet
Weather Flow Master Plan Implementation Advisory Committee. Members of the advisory
committee will be appointed for a term of City Council and the membership will be reviewed at
the beginning of each new council term. It is expected that the committee will meet twice each
year.
RES. #G21/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER WATERSHED HABITAT REGENERATION PROJECTS -
PROJECT PARTNERS 2006
Approved TRCA 2006 capital budgets for regeneration projects in the
Humber watershed, including partner agency contributions.
Dianne Douglas
Joanne Nonnekes
THAT the report on partners in 2006 Humber Habitat Regeneration projects be received;
AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members continue to have an active role
in finalizing design details and implementation of the 2006 habitat regeneration
projects CARRIED
BACKGROUND
At the Humber Watershed Alliance meeting #1/06, held on February 21, 2006, resolution
#G6/06 was adopted as follows:
THAT staff report to the Humber Watershed Alliance the amount of funding
TRCA receives from all partners with regard to the approved 2006 regeneration
projects in the Humber watershed.
G38 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2106
April 18, 2006
The following is a list of approved projects in the Humber watershed for 2006. Both proposed
( *) and confirmed partner contributions are listed for each project.
PROJECT
DESCRIPTION
PARTNER
2006
ALLOCATION
William Granger
Greenway
Riparian plantings, natural
environment interpretive
signs, community outreach
and post project monitoring
York Region
$10,000
Lake Wilcox
Implement pilot projects
York Region
$20,000
Habitat
with the assistance of the
Federal - GLSF
$10,000*
Improvement
Humber Watershed
Town of Richmond Hill
$20,000
Alliance members,
educational signage,
community information
sessions
East Humber
Riparian planting
York Region
$2,500
Riparian Planting
Eaton Hall
Wetland enhancement,
York Region
$15,000
Wetland/
reforestation, increase
Oak Ridges Moraine Fdn
$42,800
Seneca College
riparian cover, create
critical habitat features
Seneca College
$10,000
Cold Creek
Forest and riparian
York Region
$15,000
Management
Plan
Implementation
planting, community
environmental events,
boardwalk repairs in ESA
King Township
$2,500
Nashville Natural
Inventory and prepare
York Region
$10,000
Area
Enhancement
forest management
prescriptions, reforestation
Other
$10,000*
Woodbridge
Construction of wetlands
York Region
$15,000
Expansion Area
based on City of Vaughan
Vaughan
$50,000
CAS
plans, reforestation,
Federal - GLSF
$44,500*
riparian planting and
Provincial
$3,000*
habitat enhancements
TD Friends of the Env.
$3,500*
Claireville Habitat
Wetland enhancement,
Peel Region
$65,000
Restoration/
forest management,
Ontario Trillium Fdn.
$33,500
Claireville
riparian planting and
TD Friends of the Env.
$800*
Stewardship
reforestation, critical habitat
Provincial
$450*
features installation
Other
$350*
(nesting structures),
community stewardship
initiatives
April 18, 2006
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06
G39
PROJECT
DESCRIPTION
MUNICIPALITY
2006
ALLOCATION
Bolton
Tree and shrub planting
Peel Region
$10,000
Community
Other
$5,000*
Action Site
Caledon East
Tree and shrub planting
Peel Region
$10,000
Community
Other
$5,000*
Action Site
Centreville Creek
Restore and protect
Peel Region
$20,000
Taylor Pond
riparian habitat, removal of
Provincial
$1,000
in- stream barrier,
implement an erosion
containment strategy,
outreach and education,
community plantings,
community monitoring and
installation of interpretive
signage
Other
$5,000
Centreville Creek
Naturalizations, habitat
Peel Region
$35,000
Stewardship
improvements, private land
Federal
$5,000
resource management and
Provincial
$58,050
outreach /education
programs
Other
$8,000*
Palgrave Fishway
Riparian planting and
Peel Region
$5,000
and Riparian
fishway enhancements
Other
$5,000*
Planting
Oak Ridges
Reforestation, riparian
Peel Region
$145,000
Moraine CPA 2
habitat, wetland creation,
landowner contact
program
Oak Ridges Moraine Fdn
$143,967
Eglinton Flats
Habitat enhancements,
City of Toronto
$10,000
Pond
educational signage
Provincial
$5,000*
Restoration
Toronto - Parks
$35,000*
Humber
Community
Environmental
Projects
Downsview Earth Day
planting, Humber savannah
rehabilitation, Black Creek
riparian planting and
restoration
City of Toronto
$20,000
G40 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2106
April 18, 2006
PROJECT
DESCRIPTION
MUNICIPALITY
2006
ALLOCATION
West Humber
Habitat protection and
City of Toronto
$10,000
Park
enhancement, interpretive
signage
TD Friends of the Enviro.
$2,000*
Lower Humber
Notch two fish barriers
City of Toronto
$20,000
Barrier Mitigation
Provincial
$10,000*
Ontario Streams
$10,000*
Other
$50,000*
Humber Habitat
Creation of wetland cover,
City of Toronto
$30,000
Implementation
forest cover, riparian cover,
York Region
$13,200
Plan
and critical habitat features
Peel Region
$50,000
Federal
$45,000*
Other
$15,000*
Indian Line
Forest cover, riparian
City of Toronto
$25,000
Campground/
cover, wetland cover,
Peel Region
$40,000
Claireville
Reservoir
Naturalization
shoreline enhancement,
aquatic habitat, community
stewardship
Other
$12,000*
TOTAL (INCLUDED PROPOSED FUNDING SOURCES)
$1,244,617
Note:
Sources listed as "other" are proposed funding from non - traditional sources (e.g. Shell
Environmental Fund, Home Depot) which have yet to be determined or are private in source.
TRCA and partner in -kind contributions has not be included in this chart.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Finalize project designs;
• Obtain appropriate approvals;
• Seek confirmation of matching funds;
• Engage local stakeholders to assist with the implementation of appropriate
elements of the project.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G41
RES. #G22/06 - PALGRAVE CONSERVATION AREA TRAIL PLAN
Commencement of the Palgrave Conservation Area Trail Plan process.
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Krisann Graf
Yvette Fournier
THAT the staff report on the Palgrave Conservation Area Trail Plan be received for
information;
AND FURTHER THAT a representative from the Humber Watershed Alliance be appointed to
the Palgrave Conservation Area Trail Plan Advisory Committee.
AMENDMENT
RES. #G23/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Richard Whitehead
David Hutcheon
THAT Richard Whitehead be appointed to the Palgrave Conservation Area Trail Plan Advisory
Committee representing the Humber Watershed Alliance;
THAT the Save the Oak Ridges Moraine (STORM) community organization be invited to
participate on the Palgrave Conservation Area Trail Plan Advisory Committee;
AND FURTHER THAT an additional bullet point be included indicating that the trail plan will
help to meet the objectives of the Oak Ridges Moraine protection area.
THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED
THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED
BACKGROUND
Palgrave Conservation Area is located south of Finnerty Sideroad, north of Patterson Sideroad,
east of Highway 50 and west of Humber Station Road in the Town of Caledon. Palgrave
Conservation Area is in the Main - Upper Branch subwatershed of the Humber River. Palgrave
Conservation Area supports a diversity of primarily forest vegetation communities, and flora and
fauna species of regional concern. These are associated with the high - quality forests and
forested wetlands found at the site.
Palgrave Conservation Area is located within the southern portion of the Great Lakes - St.
Lawrence floristic region and the original natural cover would have been composed of mixed
coniferous - deciduous forest. Palgrave Conservation Area lies entirely within the Oak Ridges
Moraine physiographic region. The Oak Ridges Moraine is mostly composed of sandy or
gravely materials and is the source area for many streams that drain the till plains on either side
of it.
G42 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
Palgrave Conservation Area is not an active conservation area. Only passive recreational use,
such as hiking and cycling, is permitted. There are no built public use facilities such as
washroom buildings. Palgrave Conservation Area is also used for forest harvesting. These
factors and its location on the Oak Ridges Moraine and beyond urban development contribute
to its good terrestrial natural heritage scores.
The land occupied by Palgrave Conservation Area is subject to several provincial plans and
policies, including the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan and the Greenbelt Plan. Palgrave
Conservation Area also includes small areas designated as an Environmentally Significant Area
(provincial designation) and a Regionally Significant Area (Region of Peel designation).
It is an appropriate time to complete a trail plan for Palgrave Conservation Area because of the
growing pressure for trails, both pedestrian and cycling, in the area. In addition, the area will
act as a hub for many inter - regional trails, such as the Oak Ridges Trail and the Bruce Trail.
In addition, with the projected population growth in the Town of Caledon and the Region of
Peel, Palgrave Conservation Area will become an even more popular environmental and
recreational centre, requiring a trail plan that can address future public use demands and
enhanced environmental protection. Furthermore, it is necessary to prepare a comprehensive
and integrated trail plan for the property that can respond to the changes in the availability of
public funds, evolving concepts in conservation, sustainability and advances in ecosystem -
based management.
The trail plan will complement a number of TRCA initiatives, including:
• TRCA's Vision - The Living City;
• TRCA's Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy; and
• Implementation of Legacy: A Strategy for a Healthy Humber (1997).
A trail plan will help:
• To address property management and public safety issues;
• To respond to future demands and growth in the region;
• To integrate and implement Humber River watershed management strategy objectives;
• To establish appropriate environmental protection and regeneration techniques;
• To receive public input regarding appropriate use, development and management of trails;
and
• To create a sense of stewardship among users and adjacent land owners.
The goal of the Palgrave Conservation Area Trail Plan is to develop and manage a network of
trails at Palgrave Conservation Area within an ecosystem framework and, in consultation with
the community, ensure watershed health, public enjoyment and environmental sustainability.
For the trail plan process, staff will incorporate the TRCA model for developing management
plans that have been successfully implemented at Claireville, Boyd North and Glassco Park,
Cold Creek, and Heart Lake Conservation Areas.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G43
Staff has recommended the establishment of an advisory committee to provide an integrated
approach to the development of the trail plan. The committee will provide direction on, and
assist with the development of the trail routes, uses and management recommendations.
The TRCA will select and invite agency and community representatives to be members of the
advisory committee for the duration of the project. Suggested advisory committee
representatives could include:
• TRCA staff;
• Bruce Trail Association;
• Caledon Countryside Alliance;
• Caledon Cycling Club;
• Humber Valley Heritage Trail Association;
• Humber Watershed Alliance;
• Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust;
• Oak Ridges Trail Association; and
• Community residents.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Establish an advisory committee.
• Develop alternative concepts for a trail plan.
• Prepare a final trail plan.
It is anticipated that the trail plan will be completed by October 2006 and that implementation
may commence in November 2006.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Provision for the development of the Palgrave Conservation Area Trail Plan has been included
in the Authority's 2006 Peel Capital Budget.
RES. #G24/06 - SPRING EVENTS - 2006
Schedule of spring events in the Humber watershed.
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Sharon Bradley
Alyson Hazlett
THAT the following schedule of spring events be received for information CARRIED
BACKGROUND
Each year, individuals, groups and agencies are encouraged to host and /or participate in
events to celebrate the Humber watershed. The following spring events are scheduled. Enjoy!
G44 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
Oak Ridges and Lake Wilcox Clean Up Event
Date: Saturday, April 22, 2006
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Join the Oak Ridges Friends of the Environment for their 6th Annual Oak Ridges and Lake
Wilcox Clean -up Day. Meet at the Operation Catch Up building located on the south west
corner of King Road and Yonge Street. Bar- b -que, draw prizes and Tots of nature information
will be available.
For more information, contact Lisa Turnbull at (416)661 -6600, extension 5325,
Iturnbull@trca.on.ca
Earth Day Planting at Sunkist Woods
Date: Saturday, April 22, 2006
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Sunkist Woods is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of OId King
Road and Sneath Road.
Come out and assist the Centreville Creek Environmental Stewardship Program by planting
native trees and shrubs. The community is invited to take part in this planting to extend natural
habitat opportunities for local wildlife along the Humber River. Shovel and gloves will be
provided. Dress appropriately for the event. Complimentary coffee, snacks and refreshments
will be available.
For more information, contact Vince D'Elia at (416)661 -6600, extension 5646,
vdelia @trca.on.ca
Trout Unlimited Tree Planting Event
Date: Sunday, April 23, 2006
Time: 10:00 a.m.
The Humber River Chapter of Trout Unlimited will be hosting a tree planting event on Coffey
Creek which is a tributary of the Humber River and has the highest concentration of brown
trout spawning beds in the Humber watershed. Coffey Creek is 4 km west of Palgrave.
For more information, contact Jeff Hladun at (905)880 -9851, jeff.hladun @sympatico.ca
Caledon East Tree Planting Event
Date: Saturday, April 29, 2006
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon
Location: Meet in the parking lot of the Caledon East Community Centre (beside the OPP
station), off of OId Church Road. Signs will be posted.
Come out and help plant trees along Boyce and Centreville Creeks - two tributaries of the
Humber River. You will be helping to improve brook trout habitat. Equipment and
refreshments will be provided. The event will take place rain or shine. Dress appropriately.
For more information, contact Christine Pritchard at (905)713 -7399,
christine.pritchard @ontariostreams.on.ca
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G45
Claireville Spring Planting Event
Date: Saturday, April 29, 2006
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12 noon
Join the Friends of Claireville and the TRCA at a spring planting to kick off the Claireville
Community Stewardship project. Enter Claireville at the Queen Street (Highway 7) entrance
(head south of McVean on Claireville Conservation Road) and follow the signs to the planting
site.
For more information, contact Kasey Livingston at (416)661 -6600, extension 5581,
klivingston @trca.on.ca
Bolton /Caledon East Community Clean up Event
Date: Saturday, May 6, 2006
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Location to be determined.
This event is being organized in partnership with the Tim Horton's Community Clean up
initiative. Bring your family, friends and neighbours to spend a couple of hours to help clean up
the winter litter from our wetlands and natural areas. Gloves and bags will be provided. Dress
appropriately for the event. Complimentary coffee, snacks and refreshments will be available.
For more information, contact Vince D'Elia at (416)661 -6600, extension 5646,
vdelia @trca.on.ca
Albion Hills Conservation Area Community Planting
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2006
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Albion Hills Conservation Area - Taylor Pond.
Come out and assist the Centreville Creek Environmental Stewardship Program by planting
native trees and shrubs. The community is invited to take part in this planting to create natural
habitat opportunities for local wildlife along a newly- formed section of stream channel. Shovels
and gloves will be provided. Dress appropriately for the event. A complimentary BBQ will
follow the event.
For more information, contact Vince D'Elia at (416)661 -6600, extension 5646,
vdelia @trca.on.ca
Cold Creek Day
Date: Sunday, May 14, 2006
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Join the Cold Creek Stewardship on Mother's Day for their second annual Cold Creek Day.
Featuring: retriever dog trials, birds of prey show, guided trail tour and agility and cart dogs.
For more information, contact Lisa Turnbull at (416)661 -6600, extension 5325,
Iturnbull@trca.on.ca
Humber Heritage Committee Spring Wildflower Walk
Date: Sunday, May 14, 2006
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Starting at the Lambton House located at 4066 Dundas Street West and returning
there for afternoon tea.
For more information, contact Madeleine McDowell at (416)767 -7633
G46 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
Creating a Natural Lawn and Garden Workshop
Date: Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: Ski Chalet at Albion Hills Conservation Area.
This free session will include presentations, displays, Region of Peel compost distribution,
refreshments and a draw for prizes. A limited number of subsidized native plant and organic
lawn care kits will be distributed. Call the number provided below for more information on
these kits and to place an order. The deadline for orders, with payment, is May 12, 2006.
Everyone is welcome to attend but registration is mandatory.
For more information, contact Colleen Cirillo at (416)661 -6600, extension 5338,
ccirillo @trca.on.ca
In Stream Work Day
Date: Sunday, June 4, 2006
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Albion Hills Conservation Area - Taylor Pond.
Come out and assist the Centreville Creek Environmental Stewardship Program and the stream
rehabilitation project on a newly- formed section of stream channel. Enthusiastic volunteers
are needed to help move rock, gravel and woody debris to create fish habitat and stabilize
eroding banks upstream and downstream of the new section of stream channel. Dress
appropriately for the event and please bring hip or chest waders if you have them (a limited
number of waders will be available at the event for use that day). A complimentary BBQ will
follow the event.
For more information, contact Vince D'Elia at (416)661 -6600, extension 5646,
vdelia @trca.on.ca
Native Tree Planting and Monitoring Opportunities for Schools
Date: Various weekdays between April 17 and June 15, 2006
Time: Between 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Albion Hills Conservation Area or Bolton Sunkist Woods
The Centreville Creek Environmental Stewardship Program is looking for school groups
(grades 7 to 12) in Peel Region to assist in the planting of native trees and shrubs. Local fish
and wildlife will reap the benefits of this planting through the establishment of habitat and food
source.
The Centreville Creek Environmental Stewardship Program is also looking for school groups
(grades 9 to 12) in Peel Region to assist with monitoring. Students will have the opportunity to
participate in our 'hands on' monitoring programs and learn about aquatic and forest
ecosystems.
For more information, contact Vince D'Elia at (416)661 -6600, extension 5646,
vdelia @trca.on.ca
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G47
RES. #G25/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
SOURCE PROTECTION MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT FOR
FUNDING FOR 2005 -2006
Approval to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with respect to the
delivery of provincially funded partnership capacity building projects for
the period August 1, 2005 to June 30, 2006 with administrative and
technical responsibilities pursuant to the previously approved
Memorandum of Agreement with respect to Source Water Protection
Program Administration signed amongst the CTC Watershed Region
conservation authorities - Toronto and Region, Credit Valley and Central
Lake Ontario.
David Hutcheon
Madeleine McDowell
THAT the staff report on Source Water Protection be received for information .... CARRIED
AMENDMENT
RES. #G26/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
David Hutcheon
Madeleine McDowell
THAT a copy of the letter from the Ministry of the Environment, dated November 16, 2004
with regard to Ontario Regulation 903, be included on the next Humber Watershed Alliance
agenda as correspondence.
THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED
THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED
BACKGROUND
At Authority meeting #8/05, held on October 28, 2005, the following resolution was adopted:
THAT the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) enter into a Memorandum of
Agreement with respect to coordination and administration of partnership capacity building
projects, between the Crown in right of Ontario, as represented by the Minister of Natural
Resources, 2002796 Ontario Limited ( "Conservation Ontario "), Credit Valley Conservation
(CVC) and Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA) for the period August 1,
2005 until June 30, 2006;
THAT staff be authorized and directed to take such action as may be necessary to
implement the Memorandum of Agreement including the signing of documents;
THAT the appropriate TRCA officials be authorized and directed to execute all necessary
documentation required;
THAT staff of the 3 conservation authorities (CA) continue to seek additional funding from
G48 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
the province through Conservation Ontario to enable the CTC group to deliver the complete
2005 -2006 deliverables as set out by the province;
AND FURTHER THAT copies of the staff report be provided to the CAD's of the City of
Toronto and regions of Halton, Peel, York and Durham.
At Authority Meeting #3/04, held on March 26, 2004, Resolution #A67/04 was approved, in
part, as follows:
THAT the proposed source protection planning region involving the jurisdictions of Credit
Valley Conservation (CVC), Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), and the
Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA) be endorsed;
THAT TRCA act as the lead conservation authority for this source protection planning
region;
THAT TRCA staff work with staff of CLOCA and CVC to develop a memorandum of
agreement, for approval by each conservation authority board, setting out the terms of
administration among the three conservation authorities in the planning region;....
Subsequent to the Authority direction, the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with respect to
Source Protection Program Administration was developed and signed by the three CAs.
At Authority Meeting #11/04, held on March 26, 2004, Resolution #A324/04 was approved, in
part, as follows:
THAT the TRCA enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with respect to coordination and
administration of partnership capacity building projects, between the Crown in right of
Ontario, as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources, 2002796 Ontario Limited
( "Conservation Ontario "), TRCA, CVC and CLOCA for the period December 1, 2004 until
July 31, 2005;...
Subsequently, the CTC CAs successfully completed the technical and administrative work as
specified by the 2004 -05 MOA at the required reporting intervals. On August 31, CTC delivered
Interim Preliminary Watershed Characterization Reports along with all the required budget and
status reporting information required by Conservation Ontario and the Province.
Provincial Funding Agreement
Conservation Ontario and the province, as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources,
have signed a Memorandum of Agreement setting out the terms and deliverables associated
with the transfer of provincial source protection funding for the next funding period,11 months
from August 1, 2005 to June 30, 2006. This MOA requires the three conservation authorities in
the CTC Region, the province and Conservation Ontario again to sign a Project Agreement
setting out the respective responsibilities contained in Schedule C to the Memorandum of
Agreement between the province and Conservation Ontario .
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G49
The objective of the provincial funding is to ensure conservation authorities have sufficient
capacity to meet the aggressive goals and objectives of the anticipated Drinking Water Source
Protection Act. In preparation for legislation, the. CTC conservation authorities will undertake
preliminary watershed characterization, complete conceptual water budgets and initiate water
budget numerical modeling. This preliminary technical undertaking will provide the
groundwork upon which the local source water protection plan can be built.
The parties will collaborate on the development of planning, communications, mapping and
other technical skills and capacities in the participating CAs, so that the conservation
authorities can undertake the planning, research and analysis needed to implement the
province's obligations under the proposed Drinking Water Source Protection Act
The funding is to be used by CAs to undertake the following activities, prior to the enactment of
source water protection legislation and promulgation of associated regulations:
A: Water Budget:
• Conceptual Understanding;
• Phase 2: Level 1 Numerical Modelling (Watershed Scale);
• Phase 3: Level 2 Numeric Modelling (Site Specific).
B: Capacity Building:
• Data Management/Acquisition;
• Communications /Outreach;
• Preliminary Watershed Characterization;
• Threats Database /Issues Evaluation.
Details of the project, including specific products, deliverables, activities, milestone dates and
budgets, are set out in Schedule C to the MOA. Staff of TRCA, CVC and CLOCA are in the
process of preparing workplans and budgets in support of this MOA. Additional meetings to
seek input from municipal staff are planned in November, 2005.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
The CTC Region will receive $1,077,000 in 2005 -2006 as base funding under the provincial
funding agreement. These funds will be shared among CVC, TRCA and CLOCA according to
an agreed upon workplan and budget allocation.
Based on the detailed planning and budget work undertaken by staff of the 3 CAs in
September and October 2005 to meet the provincial Schedule of Deliverables, the base
funding is not adequate. The CTC CAs are negotiating with Conservation Ontario for additional
funds to adequately fund the CTC work that the province expects to be completed in 2005-
2006. Upon completion of negotiations with Conservation Ontario, the Memorandum of
Agreement will be signed setting out the work that the CTC conservation authorities will
complete, with the detailed CTC workplan identifying any necessary amendments to the
provincial Schedule of Deliverables.
G50 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
EXCERPT from SCHEDULE "C"
to the Agreement dated the 1st day of August, 2005 between her Majesty the Queen in right of
Ontario and the Association of Conservation Authorities of Ontario known as "Conservation
Ontario"
Form of agreement between the Crown, Conservation Ontario and conservation authorities
with respect to coordination and administration of capacity building projects ...
Summary Detail of Eligible Activity and Deliverables Reporting Schedule for Conservation
Authorities
This table represents the general anticipated pace of work for the duration of the Agreement,
and the milestones of progress. It is recognized that individual CA regions will provide detailed
workplans (as per section 2.4 above) that may indicate some variation from this schedule.
Detailed workplan guidelines will be developed and provided to CA regions.
Please note that specific activity and product deliverables may change pending the Drinking
Water Source Protection Act expected to be introduced in fall 2005.
Classification of Work
Capacity Building
Administration
Quarterly Report
1 Aug 05 to 30 Sept 05
ACTIVITY:
Ongoing staffing, project
administration, skills training to build
permanent capacity at the CA level
for on -going DWSP work
• Detailed workplan development
Develop a "Staff Development Plan"
detailing on -going staff development
opportunities to be undertaken or
needed (TBD)
PRODUCT:
• "Staff Development Plan" detailing
staff development opportunities
planned, attended, and needed
Interim report of expenditures &
detailed work plan as per CO /MNR
provided template
Capacity Building - Outreach
Strategy/ Communications
(please note:
Communications
activities /Products are TBD
contingent on the on -going
direction and clarification
provided by MOE pending
Drinking Water Source
Protection Legislation)
Quarterly Report
1 Oct 05 to 31 Dec 05
Eligible CA Activities Based on
ACTIVITY:
Ongoing staffing, project
administration, skills training to build
permanent capacity at the CA level for
on -going DWSP work
PRODUCT:
Status /Update of "Staff Development
Plan" detailing staff development
opportunities planned, attended, and
needed
• Interim report of expenditures & status
update on workplan as per CO /MNR
provided template
Quarterly Report
1 Aug 05 to 30 Sept 05
ACTIVITY:
• Consultation with relevant targeted
stakeholders (e.g. CA Boards,
Municipalities) related to technical
background /data collection
General communications,
educational in nature promoting, key
concepts such as watersheds, CA
role in watershed management and
basic information about water quality
protection.
Develop and share good
communication practices, tools,
products and experiences including
"success stories," "tales of caution"
Quarterly Report
1 Jan 06 to 31 Mar 06
SWIG Guidance Aug 2005 -June 2006
ACTIVITY: Al
Ongoing staffing, project
administration, skills training to build
permanent capacity at the CA level
for on -going DWSP work
Develop 2006 -07 Work plan and PI
Budget
PRODUCT:
Status /Update of "Staff Development plar
Plan" detailing staff development
opportunities planned, attended, and
needed.
Interim report of expenditures &
status update workplan as per
CO /MNR provided template
2006 -07 Work plan and Budget
Proposal
Quarterly Report
1 Oct 05 to 31 Dec 05
ACTIVITY:
• Consultation with relevant targeted
stakeholders (e.g. CA Boards,
Municipalities) related to technical
background /data collection
• General communications, educational
in nature promoting, key concepts such
as watersheds, CA role in watershed
management and basic information
about water quality protection.
• Develop and share good
communication practices, tools,
products and experiences including
"success stories," "tales of caution" and
myths arising through consultations
Quarterly Report
1 Jan 06 to 31 Mar 06
ACTIVITY:
• Develop and deliver local
communications plan (TBD)
• Begin broad public consultation with
all stakeholder group based on
consultation guidance provided by
MOE (TBD)
• Support SWPPC and working group:
(TBD).
• Work with MOE to organize and
facilitate training sessions around the
legislation and regulations based on
MOE training package for CAs and
other targeted stakeholders in
watershed region (TBD)
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06
G51
Water Budgets
and myths arising through
consultations
.Develop preliminary (pre - legislation)
consultation plan
PRODUCT:
• Consultation plan for interim period
(pre - legislation) to become part of a
phased communication /consultation
plan
• Summary report of stakeholders
consulted and outcomes
• Draft analysis of most effective
communications approaches with
watershed stakeholders to inform
preparation of communications plan
Phase 1: Conceptual Understanding
ACTIVITY:
Determine Objectives for Conceptual
Water Budget Development
• Review Existing Available Data
• Identify Information Gaps
PRODUCT:
• Data report identifying objectives,
data review and information gaps
Watershed Characterization ACTIVITY:
• Compilation, review and assessment
of existing data and information for:
Source water protection region
• Physical description
• Hydrology
• Naturally vegetated areas
• Aquatic ecology
• Human characterization
- Water uses and values
• Water quality (general overview
only)
Identification of data and knowledge
gaps for the watershed description
component
PRODUCT:
• Interim report for watershed
description including products e.g.
maps, written descriptions, etc.
• Create local communications plan,
aligned with MOE/CO products and
guidance.
PRODUCT:
Draft phased Communication/
Consultation plan with focused
stakeholder consultations pre -
legislation
• Summary report of stakeholders
consulted and outcomes
• Pending introduction of legislation,
prepare local communications products
based on MOE /CO materials
(backgrounders, Qs & As, press
releases, key messages)
Phase 1: Conceptual Understanding
ACTIVITY:
Derive Data Derivatives
PRODUCT:
• Map Booklet including (minimum):
• Climate
Geological / Physiographical
• Ground & Surface Water
Characterization
• Water Use
(refer to Draft Interim Technical Directions
Watershed Characterization" June 23,
2005 (for further detail on accepted
map products)
ACTIVITY:
Compilation, review and assessment of
existing data and information regarding:
Sources of Water Quality
Information
Water Quality Guidelines
Selection of appropriate water quality
parameters and data analysis
techniques
Characterization of raw water for
drinking water sources
• Where appropriate incorporate
distribution of communications
products provided by MOE and /or
CO into communication rollout
- Undertake development of 2006-07
Communications Plan
• Develop and share good
communication practices, tools,
products and experiences including
"success stories," "tales of caution"
and myths arising through
consultations
PRODUCT:
• Summary report of stakeholders
consulted and outcomes
• Complete phased
Communication /Consultation Plan
• Produce and distribute local
communications products (News
Releases, Backgrounders, etc)
aligned with MOE/CO products and
guidance.
Phase 1: Conceptual Understanding
(Expected Complete March 2006)
ACTIVITY:
• Develop Conceptual Understanding
• Peer Review
- Prepare Conceptual Report
Recommend and Select Numeric
Models
Identification of data and knowledge
gaps for surface and groundwater
quality '•�
PRODUCT:
• Interim report for existing water quality
conditions and trends including:
PRODUCT:
• Conceptual Water Budget Report
• Peer Review Report for Conceptual
Water Budget
Report on selected numeric model
ACTIVITY:
Compilation, review and assessment
of existing data and information
regarding:
• vulnerable areas
potential and identified threats
to surface and groundwater
quality
identified issues and potential
issues
Preparation of interim report
PRODUCT:
• Interim report on existing data re:
vulnerable areas, threats and issues
including:
products e.g. maps, written
descriptions, etc.
identification of data and knowledge
gaps for:
vulnerable areas
G52 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
potential and identified threats
identification of data and knowledge products e.g. maps, written
gaps descriptions, etc.
identification of data and knowledge
gaps for:
• surface water quality
ground water quality
Water Budgets Phase 1: Conceptual Understanding
Threats Database/ Issues
Evaluation
(Please note: Threats
Database/ issues evaluation
activities /Products are TBD
contingent on the on -going
direction and clarification
provided by MOE pending
Drinking Water Source
Protection Legislation)
Phase 1: Conceptual Understanding Phase 1: Conceptual Understanding
(Expected Complete March 2006)
RES. #G27/06 - PLACES TO GROW
Proposed growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Deb Schulte
THAT the staff report on Places To Grow, A Proposed Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe be received for information CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The Authority, at its meeting #11/05 held on January 27, 2006, adopted resolution #A310/05
and #A312/05 as follows:
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) continue to support the
directions of the proposed Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, as the
Growth Plan supports the Sustainable Communities objective of TRCA's vision for The
Living City;
THAT the issues of carrying capacity, net environmental gain and long term
sustainability of the Greater Golden Horseshoe be addressed through the ongoing sub-
area assessments, watershed plans and future reviews of the Growth Plan;
THAT section 2.2.8.3 be amended to include criteria and targets for considering how
alternative energy sources and energy conservation can contribute to significant
reductions in per capita energy use in expanded settlement areas;
THAT section 4.2.4 - A Culture of Conservation, be amended to add a new sub - section
1(f) titled "Green Infrastructure and Technologies" to promote innovative and
sustainable stormwater management practices and building technologies;
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G53
THAT the amendments to other specific policies, be endorsed and sent to the Ministry
of Public Infrastructure Renewal to meet the January 27, 2006 comment deadline;
THAT TRCA continue to be consulted as an active partner through the sub -area
assessments and other programs in the identification and protection of the natural
system for the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
AND FURTHER THAT TRCA urge the Province of Ontario to require planning authorities
to identify and protect locally significant natural areas that link and augment the natural
system.
In July, 2004, the Province of Ontario released a discussion paper titled "Places to Grow: Better
Choices. Brighter Future. A Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe ". TRCA provided
comments on the document to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal (MPIR) as
approved at Authority Meeting #8104, held on September 24, 2004, through resolution
#A264/04. Subsequently, the province introduced Bill 136, Places to Grow Act, in October,
2004 and in mid - February, 2005, released the Draft Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe. Staff reported on these two documents at Executive Committee Meeting #2105,
held on April 8, 2005 and submitted the following comments and recommendations to MPIR as
approved through resolution #B36/05:
THAT the Province of Ontario be commended for their recent environmental initiatives,
including the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, the Greenbelt Plan, Source Water
Protection Planning and the 2005 Provincial Policy Statement;
THAT the following comments on the "Draft Growth Plan" be submitted to the Ministry of
Public Infrastructure Renewal by the April 18 comment submission deadline;
THAT the TRCA strongly supports the directions of the Growth Plan to develop
compact, transit supportive, sustainable communities with targets for minimum
densities, as it supports the Sustainable Communities objective of The Living City;
THAT the importance of locally significant natural heritage systems in supporting the
ecological integrity of the provincially significant natural system be recognized, and that
TRCA staff continue to promote a Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy as a
model for defining the natural system for the future sub -area #1 growth plan;
THAT all new growth be designed so a to achieve a net environmental gain as a
minimum standard, where impacts are created on the natural environment based on
clearly defined tests of what constitutes enhanced ecological function.
THAT financial tools and incentives be made available by the Province for the
securement and stewardship of the Natural Heritage System within the growth plan
areas as well as for the implementation of green infrastructure such as stormwater
retrofits and the use of green building technologies and renewable energy sources that
reduce energy consumption, improve air quality and reduce the impacts from and rate
of climate change;
G54 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
THAT no urban boundary expansions should be permitted within a sub -area until a
(sub)watershed plan and source protection plan have been completed for the affected
lands and which has identified the environmental carrying capacity of the lands and the
natural resources that need to be protected to ensure a viable, self- sustaining natural
heritage system to enhance and complement the proposed urban expansion;
THAT in support of a "Culture of Conservation ", the Province of Ontario be strongly
encouraged, in consultation with municipalities and affected industry, to amend building
codes and municipal by -laws to require energy and water efficient appliances, fixtures
and insulating materials in new buildings and to lead by example when retrofitting
existing or building new public buildings;
THAT the sub -area growth plans include detailed strategies for the clean -up of
brownfield sites and other negative environmental legacies and ensure that new growth
and intensification does not address one set of problems only to create new additional
problems, such as insufficient, over -used and increasingly degraded natural heritage
systems;
AND FURTHER THAT TRCA continue to be consulted as an active partner in the
development of the sub -area #1 growth plan and that protection of environmental
systems are addressed early in the process.
Additionally, staff contributed comments to a consolidated submission prepared by
Conservation Ontario in April 2005. Subsequently, Bill 136 - Places to Grow Act, 2005 - was
passed into law by the Legislature in June, 2005. The current version of the Proposed Growth
Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe was released at the end of November, 2005.
Comments are due to the province by January 27, 2006, with the Growth Plan expected to be
finalized in the spring of 2006.
HIGHLIGHTS OF BILL 136 AND THE PROPOSED GROWTH PLAN
Bill 136 gives the Minister the authority to prepare a proposed growth plan for any area of land
designated by the Lieutenant Governor in Council as a growth plan area. The contents of
growth plans may include policies, goals and criteria in relation to, among other things, the
protection of sensitive and significant lands, including agricultural resources and water
resources and the conservation of energy. Other key provisions of the Places to Grow Act,
2005 include:
• a growth plan must be reviewed every 10 years;
• municipalities must amend their official plans to conform with the growth plan within 3
years;
• decisions made under the Planning Act or the Condominium Act by a municipal
council, conservation authority, Ontario Municipal Board and others, must conform with
the growth plan for that area.
Similar to the previous draft Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH), the current
proposed Growth Plan presents strategic policy directions to:
• direct growth to built -up areas, while providing criteria for settlement area boundary
expansions;
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G55
• promote transit - supportive densities with mixed land uses;
• preserve employment lands for future economic opportunities;
• identify and support a transportation network that links urban growth centres;
• plan for community infrastructure to support growth and ensure that sustainable water
and wastewater services are available to support future growth; and
• identify a natural system and prime agricultural areas and enhance the conservation of
these valuable resources.
The plan provides intensification targets requiring by 2015, that a minimum of 40% of all new
residential development be accommodated within the built -up area (boundary to be defined in
the coming months). Additionally, density targets are proposed within urban growth centres
(400 residents and jobs combined per hectare in the City of Toronto; 200 residents and jobs in
other centres within TRCA watersheds) as well as for the designated greenfield areas (lands
designated for growth but not yet built) of a minimum 50 residents and jobs combined per
hectare. Settlement boundary expansions may be permitted (up to the limit of the Greenbelt),
subject to a municipal comprehensive review that must demonstrate adherence to a number of
criteria, including the policies of Sections 2 and 3 of the 2005 Provincial Policy Statement (PPS
- which includes resource, environmental and hazard land policies).
Section 4 of the Growth Plan is titled "Protecting What is Valuable ". It provides for the
identification of a "natural system" of the GGH, and where appropriate, policies for its
protection, to be identified through a "sub -area assessment" by the Ministers of Public
Infrastructure Renewal and Natural Resources, in consultation with upper and single -tier
municipalities. The natural system includes both terrestrial and water resource features. The
natural system to be protected appears to be at a provincial policy statement (PPS) -
"significance" level, with additional encouragement to "identify locally significant natural areas
that link and augment the natural system." Conservation authorities are mentioned with
particular reference to being one of a number of partners to develop a system of publicly
accessible parkland, open space and trails, including shoreline areas within the GGH. An
additional subsection titled A Culture of Conservation includes policies for the conservation
and /or protection of water, energy, air quality, waste management and cultural heritage.
Additional work to be done by the province alone, or through sub -area assessment in
conjunction with municipalities, is identified in order to implement the policies of the Growth
Plan, including:
• verify and delineate the built boundary (in order to assess meeting intensification
targets);
• determine the need for future designated greenfield areas;
• determine the scale and scope of urban growth centres; and
• sub -area assessments for analysis of water and wastewater needs; economic
assessment for employment planning; phasing of the proposed transportation network;
and identification of the natural system, prime agricultural areas and rural system.
A comprehensive glossary of definitions is included with new terms defined such as
community infrastructure and complete communities. Schedules are included that depict
population and employment projections to 2031, urban growth centres and proposed
transportation networks for moving people and goods.
G56 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
TRCA STAFF ANALYSIS AND COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED GROWTH PLAN
Staff noted in the previous report at Executive Committee Meeting #2105, that the general
intent of the draft Growth Plan was consistent with the Sustainable Communities objective
TRCA's vision for The Living City. Indeed, Resolution #B36/05 stated, in part, that the TRCA
strongly supports the directions of the Growth Plan to develop compact, transit supportive,
sustainable communities with targets for minimum densities. The current proposed Growth
Plan incorporates some refinements, but largely maintains the directions of the previous draft
Growth Plan. Some of TRCA's comments on the draft Growth Plan have been incorporated to
some degree into the current proposed Growth Plan. For instance, a recommendation to
amend the Growth Plan to recognize the value of locally significant natural heritage systems in
supporting the ecological integrity of the provincially significant natural system has been
addressed to some degree in policy 4.2.1.4 by encouraging the identification of locally
significant natural areas. Staff recommend that further strengthening of this policy is needed to
give direction to also protecting those areas identified.
Some of TRCA's previous recommendations have not been addressed and will be repeated or
refined in this report. Still other comments appear likely to be addressed through other
programs or proposed legislation. One example is the previous TRCA recommendation to
amend building codes and municipal by -laws to require improved energy efficiency, green
building technologies and renewable energy sources. In December 2005, the province
introduced proposed amendments to the Planning Act (Bill 51) that would allow municipal
councils to promote innovative and energy efficient buildings, communities, and technologies
such as solar panels, through land -use planning decisions and conditions of approval. This
provides an implementation mechanism for the new energy efficiency and air quality policies
introduced in the PPS, 2005.
Another example of TRCA comments being addressed through means other than the
proposed Growth Plan includes the previous recommendations to complete (sub) watershed
and source protection plans prior to any urban boundary expansions. Implementing this
recommendation would help to define the environmental carrying capacity of the lands to
ensure the protection of viable, self- sustaining natural heritage and water resource systems.
This has been weakly addressed in the Growth Plan policy 3.2.5.8, where the preparation of
watershed plans are "encouraged ". However, other legislation or programs may provide the
necessary level of environmental protection. The proposed Clean Water Act, 2005 will
implement source protection planning throughout the Growth Plan area, and will identify
vulnerable water resource areas such as groundwater recharge areas and highly vulnerable
aquifers, and regulate land uses therein. Additionally, the Natural Spaces Greenspace
Program for Southern Ontario will, as its first priority, define the natural heritage system for the
Growth Plan area. Conservation Ontario is currently soliciting nominations for conservation
authority staff to participate in this exercise. Also, section 14 (4) of the Places to Grow Act,
2005 states that where there are conflicts relating to the natural environment or human health,
between a growth plan direction and other defined plans or policies, the direction that provides
more protection prevails.
Staff comments on the proposed Growth Plan fall into two main areas: 1) policy- specific
comments to clarify or amend the wording or meaning of a specific policy general comments
related to the overall directions of the Growth Plan as it relates to the long term sustainability of
the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G57
The Growth Plan proposes some interesting means for "managing" the growth expected within
the GGH over the next 25 years. While managing growth is necessary, the plan does little to
address the question of continued growth beyond that time frame. Growth on a finite land
base can not continue forever. The carrying capacity of lands and environmental systems to
support continuous consumptive economic growth and development can not be sustained
indefinitely. The Growth Plan for the GGH needs to move society to a more sustainable level of
growth, development and energy consumption, and ultimately needs to plan for a stable
population base. If not, we will continue to treat the symptoms and not the underlying causes.
The proposed Growth Plan builds on other recent provincial initiatives such as the Greenbelt
Plan, Planning Act reform and the 2005 PPS to promote an enhanced environmental and
sustainable approach to city - building and the protection of adjacent countryside areas. Unless
these same high levels of environmental protection are incorporated into the Growth Plan area,
society is at risk of seeing the gains in the Greenbelt lands evaporate in the urban areas. With
population growth there will also be an increasing demand on urban natural heritage systems,
recreation and open spaces. Additionally, more impervious surfaces will be created during
intensification within the built -up area, which will generate greater amounts of surface run -off.
With growth, we plan for an increase in transit, transportation, sewer and water infrastructure
and other community services. Similarly, the Growth Plan needs to ensure that a
commensurate amount of new open space, natural heritage and "green" infrastructure and
technology is also created and utilized, to help offset the increased use - pressure and
degradation resulting from a rapidly expanding population. As development continues within
the GGH, the concept of net environmental gain needs to be incorporated into decision -
making at all levels.
In summary, TRCA should continue to support the directions of the Growth Plan to develop
compact, transit - supportive, sustainable communities, as it supports the Sustainable
Communities objective of TRCA's vision for The Living City. Additionally, staff recommend to
the Executive Committee that the province be requested to address the issues of carrying
capacity, net environmental gain and long term sustainability through the ongoing sub -area
assessments and watershed plans.
RES. #G28/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
THAT the staff
DRAFT CLEAN WATER ACT, 2005
Establishment of Source Protection Planning requirements.
TRCA's comments on the Draft Clean Water Act, 2005.
Miriam Mittermaier
Krisann Graf
report on the Draft Clean Water Act, 2005 be received for
information CARRIED
G58 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
BACKGROUND
At Authority Meeting #11/05, held on January 27, 2006, resolution #A301/05, as follows, was
adopted:
WHEREAS the Authority has previously supported the White Paper on Watershed
Based Source Protection Planning, February 2004 by Resolution #A67/04 and the
earlier proposed drinking water legislation (Drinking Water Source Protection Act,
2004)by Resolution #A224/04;
WHEREAS the current proposed legislation is consistent with these earlier proposals;
WHEREAS the province has provided funding to the Toronto and Region Conservation
Authority (TRCA), Credit Valley Conservation (CVC), and Central Lake Ontario
Conservation Authority (CLOCA) as the CTC Watershed Region to undertake technical
studies in support of source protection planning through Memorandum's of Agreement
(MOA) approved by Resolution #A67/04 and Resolution #A241/05;
THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Authority supports the proposed Clean
Water Act, 2005 and the role proposed for conservation authorities;
THAT staff be authorized and directed to make comments through the Environmental
Bill of Rights registry (EBR) process on behalf of TRCA and the CTC Watershed Region
to the province in support of the Clean Water Act, 2005;
THAT staff be directed to include in the comments to the EBR a request for the
opportunity to make a presentation in support of the Act before the Standing
Committee of the Legislature, if and when the proposed Act is referred to committee for
hearings;
THAT the Chair circulate the staff report and the EBR comments to the clerks, Chief
Administrative Officers (CAO) and Mayors of municipalities in the CTC Watershed
Region, and staff send copies to the General Managers of Credit Valley Conservation
and Conservation Ontario, the CAO of Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority and
to the project managers for the other source protection watershed regions;
AND FURTHER THAT TRCA expresses its concern to the province that the funding
mechanism for the ongoing long term responsibilities of the Source Protection
Authority, the Source Protection Planning Committee and the implementation of the
Source Protection Plan, has not been determined, and that these costs cannot be
assumed by the municipalities in the absence of additional provincial support.
The Minister of the Environment introduced the proposed Clean Water Act which received first
reading on December 5, 2005. The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) is seeking comments
through posting the legislation on the Environmental Bill of Rights registry.
The proposed Act is designed to protect existing and future sources of drinking water through
the local identification and assessment of drinking water threats and the development of a
source protection plan that addresses these threats.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G59
The proposed Act is comprised of five parts.
Part I— General
Part I of the legislation establishes source protection areas and requires that a source
protection plan be developed for each area. Under proposed regulations, the CTC source
protection area will be established as the source protection area for our region (1 of 19 areas
proposed across the province), comprised of the CVC, CLOCA and TRCA jurisdictions. TRCA
will be the lead conservation authority (the "source protection authority ") and the will have the
responsibility for facilitating the source protection planning process for this area.
Part II— Preparation, Amendment and Review of Source Protection Plans
This Part establishes the process for developing and approving source protection plans. As
the lead authority, TRCA is responsible for establishing the multi - stakeholder Source
Protection Committee (SPC) comprised of no more than 16 members for the CTC region. The
chair of the SPC must be approved by the Minister of the Environment and appointed by
Order -in- Council. The SPC is responsible for developing terms of reference, an assessment
report and a source protection plan for the CTC source protection area. It is anticipated that
the SPC will be supported by a number of technical working groups.
Under the current MOA (including 100% funding) with Conservation Ontario and the province,
TRCA, CVC and CLOCA are preparing the background technical reports which will be part of
the basis for the assessment report required by the SPC. The assessment report identifies the
watersheds in the source protection area, the vulnerable areas within the watershed, and
assesses the drinking water threats in each vulnerable area in order to determine which threats
constitute significant drinking water threats. The assessment report must be submitted by the
SPC to the Source Protection Authority (SPA) for approval, who submit it subsequently to the
MOE Director for approval.
It is mandatory that the SPC consult with municipalities when the Terms of Reference for the
Assessment report are prepared, on the assessment report before it is submitted for approval
and also on the source protection plan prior to submission for approval. It is mandatory to
make the report available to the public when it is submitted to MOE. Within the CTC region, it
is our intention to consult fully with municipalities and to seek their agreement in the
establishment of the SPC and also in obtaining municipal council endorsement of reports and
source protection plans before these are submitted to the province.
Following approval of the assessment report, the SPC is responsible for preparing a source
protection plan (SPP). The SPP sets out policies intended to ensure that all current and future
activities that pose, or may pose, a significant drinking water threat (as identified in the
assessment report) cease to pose or to become a significant risk. Further, activities or specific
land uses prescribed by regulation which occur in a well -head protection area or a surface
water intake zone, may be designated for the purpose of specific provisions of Part IV. It is
mandatory for the SPC to consult with municipalities.
Part III —Effect of Source Protection Plans
The Act requires municipalities to conform their Official Plans, zoning by -laws and prescribed
instruments that relate to significant drinking water threats, with the SPP. In the case of a
conflict between the source protection plan and other provincial plans such as the Oak Ridges
G60 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
Moraine Conservation Plan or Greenbelt Plan, the provisions most protective of the quality and
quantity of drinking water prevail. Decisions under the Planning Act and the Condominium Act,
1998, must conform to the SPP. Finally, the Minister can require the appropriate legal
authority to bring any non - conforming instrument prescribed by a regulation that relates to a
significant drinking water threat into conformity with the SPP.
Part IV — Regulation of Drinking Water Threats
The municipality that has authority to make by -laws under the Municipal Act, 2001 for the
production, treatment and storage of water is responsible for enforcement. This responsibility
may be delegated by agreement to conservation authorities. The body responsible for
enforcing Part IV must appoint a permit official and permit inspectors to administer the
provisions of this Part.
Municipalities may order the development of risk management plans where an activity has
been prescribed by regulation and the report has found that the activity constitutes a
significant drinking water threat in a wellhead protection area or a surface water intake
protection zone. Appeals can be made to the Environmental Review Tribunal. A person is
required to comply with a risk management plan and failure to do so is an offence.
Part IV requires a person planning to build or get approval for specific land uses designated in
the SPP to have the permit official review the proposal to ensure compliance before the
proposal is approved under the Planning Act or the person obtains a permit under the Building
Code Act.
Part IV provides authority to issue, amend, renew and revoke permits, issue enforcement
orders, powers of entry and to cause the work to be done at the person's expense. It also
provides for appeals to the Environmental Review Tribunal.
Part V — Other Matters
An important item for the CTC Watershed Region is the authority for the Minister of the
Environment to set targets for the Great Lakes as a source of drinking water.
Part V also establishes obligations on various public bodies to share information related to the
SPP process and the authority for the Director to establish technical rules in relation to
assessment reports, risk assessments and risk management plans. The province is planning
to post draft guidance documents on the EBR for comment in the near future. Technical staff
have been consulted on earlier drafts and CTC technical work currently underway is being
carried out in accordance with most recent draft guidance.
Regulation- making authority is provided to the Minister for certain matters and a more general
regulation- making authority is given to the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
Part V includes a general conflict provision that provides that in case of a conflict between the
Clean Water Act, 2005 and a provision of another Act or a regulation made under another Act,
the provision that provides the greatest protection to a drinking water source prevails. In
addition there is a specific conflict provision in relation to the Nutrient Management Act, 2002,
which provides that in case of a conflict between a provision of the Clean Water Act, 2005 and
a provision of the Nutrient Management Act, 2002, a regulation or an instrument under that Act,
the provision of the Clean Water Act, 2005 prevails. Note that nothing in the Clean Water Act,
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G61
2005 affects the conflict provision in the Nutrient Management Act, 2002 in relation to
municipal by -laws.
Finally, Part V includes an offence provision, largely for the purpose of enforcing Part IV and
penalties with maximums from $25,000 to $100,000 per day.
This Bill amends other legislation. Amendments to the Building Code Act authorize the
establishment by regulation of maintenance inspection programs for septic systems. They also
allow for the establishment of other types of maintenance inspection programs, and makes
complimentary amendments to the Planning Act, the Conservation Authorities Act and the
Consolidated Hearings Act.
Staff Comments
The legislation is consistent with the recommendations made previously by Conservation
Ontario and TRCA on the White Paper and earlier draft legislation. Details will be contained in
future regulations and it is difficult to comment at this time on whether or not we would
recommend supporting all the provisions to be included in these regulations.
The addition of provisions to consider current and potential source impacts on the Great Lakes
intakes and for municipalities to designate clusters of private well or surface water sites for
protection as municipal drinking water supplies is a considerable improvement. Both of these
are important considerations within the CTC source protection region. The province also has
announced grant money for studies related to the Great Lakes among other priorities. The
CTC region may submit to MOE a grant proposal in cooperation with our municipal partners to
develop an assessment and model for ongoing assessment of potential impacts to drinking
water in the western basin of Lake Ontario.
The legislation does not provide any powers to fund the required activities of the Source
Protection Committee, the Source Protection Authority, the mandatory monitoring and annual
reporting or plan amendments. MOE staff has advised that it is the government's intention that
municipalities (who are responsible for implementing the SPPs) will use new taxing powers
through the Sustainable Water and Sewage Act, 2002 to recover costs and to achieve full -cost
accounting for water and sewage services. It is not clear how the SPC and SPA will be paid
although to date the province has been paying 100% of the costs of the technical studies
being carried out by conservation authorities through the MOA with Conservation Ontario and
the Ministry of Natural Resources. This matter will be raised in the comments on EBR.
In summary, the draft Clean Water Act, 2005 is a positive legislative initiative which will greatly
increase the powers of municipalities to protect current and future drinking water sources. The
roles identified for conservation authorities strengthen and build on their current roles and
expertise in watershed management and working effectively with municipal partners and other
watershed stakeholders. The legislation confers new responsibilities in protecting human
health through helping protect drinking water sources.
G62 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
RES. #G29/06 - GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2006 -2010
TRCA's Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2006 -2010.
Moved by:
Seconded by:
John Willetts
Hugh Mitchell
THAT the staff report on the TRCA's 2006 -2010 Greenlands Acquisition Project be received
for information CARRIED
BACKGROUND
At Authority meeting #9/05, held on November 25, 2005, resolution #A260/05, was adopted as
follows:
THAT the Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2006 -2010 be approved;
THAT the Minister of Natural Resources be requested to approve the project pursuant
to section 24 of the Conservation Authorities Act;
THAT the project be circulated to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)
participating municipalities, the Region of Peel, the Region of Durham, the Region of
York, the City of Toronto, the Town of Mono and the Township of Adjala - Tosorontio as
the basis for funding and land securement opportunities;
THAT the project be circulated to the Credit Valley, Central Lake Ontario and Lake
Simcoe and Region conservation authorities for their information and as the basis for
any joint land securement opportunities which may arise;
THAT staff be directed and authorized to seek funding for the project from the funding
sources identified in the project;
AND FURTHER THAT appropriate TRCA officials be authorized and directed to take
any necessary action to implement the project, including obtaining needed approvals
and the signing and execution of any documents.
RATIONALE
The Natural Heritage Lands Protection and Acquisition Project 2001 -2005 expires at the end of
2005. The Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2006 -2010 is the latest in a long series of multi-
year land acquisition and securement projects approved by TRCA.
The Greenlands Acquisition Project 2006 -2010, when approved by the Minister of Natural
Resources under section 24 of the Conservation Authorities Act, will be the legal mechanism
used by TRCA to secure greenspace lands.
The project will be circulated to TRCA's participating municipalities and will form the basis for
securement of lands in partnership with the City of Toronto and the regions. Each of these
jurisdictions approaches funding of land acquisition somewhat differently and the project will
position TRCA to work with each municipality in their own context. For example, the Regions
of Peel and York have established reserve funds to secure greenspace. The Region of
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G63
Durham is in the process of doing so. The City of Toronto, in 2005, approved $2 million in
funding for TRCA to purchase lands to protect source water.
The project also serves as a vehicle to secure funding from other partners including the
province, the federal government, local municipalities, foundations and private donors.
RES. #G30/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
The minutes of the following working group are provided for information.
Lynda Rogers
Jim Bradley
THAT the following minutes be received:
• Bolton CAS Steering Committee #3106 (Mar. 27);
• •Cold Creek Stewardship Committee #2106 and #3106 (Feb. 1 and Mar. 1);
• East Humber Subwatershed Committee #1/06 (Feb. 28);
• Lower Humber Subwatershed Committee #1/06 (Mar. 21);
• Report Card Subcommittee #1/06 (Mar. 6) CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
Town of Caledon Cheque Presentation
G. Wilkins accepted a cheque on behalf of the Humber Watershed Alliance from the Town of
Caledon in the amount of $5,000 which will go towards the ongoing work at the Palgrave
Community Action Site.
Volunteer of the Month - Bill Buchan
Bill Buchan, a resident member of the Humber Watershed Alliance representing the City of
Brampton, has received TRCA's Environmental Volunteer of the Month Award for his dedication
and commitment to Claireville. Kudos to Bill!
G64 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 April 18, 2006
Disposal of Pharmaceutical Drugs
RES. #G31/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Ron Hingston
WHEREAS the Humber Watershed Alliance is concerned that unused or outdated
pharmaceutical drugs are not being disposed of properly;
THAT staff be directed to investigate the feasibility of an advertising campaign being initiated
for the proper disposal of pharmaceutical drugs possibly through pharmacies (IDA
Association or Shoppers Drug Mart);
AND FURTHER THAT the matter be referred to staff for a report back to the Humber
Watershed Alliance on how to best deal with the issue of the disposal of pharmaceutical
drugs and to determine how significant an issue it is CARRIED
Clean up events in Etobicoke North
Councillor Hall advised the Alliance of the following spring events in her constituency:
Saturday, April 22nd, generally 9:OOam to 12:OOpm
Councillor Hall's Clean up Day, Smithfield Park and Ravine, to meet in the parking lot of
Smithfield Middle School on Mt. Olive Drive in north Etobicoke for registration. Light lunch
provided after event. Students from four schools as well as residents are participating. All are
welcome. Contact number: 416 - 392 -0205
In conjunction with Councillor Hall's office, the following groups are also cleaning on this day:
Residents and students will be cleaning up Beaumonde Heights Park and Ravine, to meet at
the park off Celandine Rd. All welcome. Contact number: 416 - 748 -3050
Youth Without Shelter and local residents will clean a portion of Masseygrove Park, to meet at
the corner of Kendleton and Warrendale. The more who participate, the more that can be
done. Contact number: 416- 748 -0110, ask for Executive Director
On two previous Saturdays, a teacher and students from Michael Power St. Josephs Catholic
Secondary School have cleaned in Thistletown Park and Highfield Park and Ravine. They are
prepared to do an additional clean up after the 22nd.
A church congregation will be cleaning up the ravine behind 2777 Kipling Avenue on May 27th.
April 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/06 G65
DOOR PRIZE
As a token of the Authority's appreciation for the members' participation on the Humber
Alliance, G. Wilkins advised that door prizes will be drawn at the end of each Alliance meeting.
The grand prize available at this meeting was a Humber polo shirt and "The Humber: Tales of
a Canadian Heritage River" authored by Ron Fletcher and another Humber polo shirt. The
winning tickets belonged to Lynda Rogers and Lois Griffin, respectively.
TERMINATION
ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:30 p.m., April 18, 2006.
Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney
Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer
/L.
THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE
MINUTES OF MEETING #3/06
AUTHORITY
MEETING #8/06
OCTOBER 27, 2006
THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 Page G66
July 18, 2006
The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, July 18, 2006.
Lois Griffin, Chair of the Humber Alliance, called the meeting to order at 6:50 p.m.
PRESENT
Sandy Agnew Member
Mary Louise Ashbourne Member
Jim Bradley Member
Sharon Bradley Member
lain Craig Member
Dianne Douglas Member
Yvette Fournier Member
Lois Griffin Chair
Suzan Hall Member
Alyson Hazlett Member
Ron Hingston Member
Jeff Hladun Alternate
Madeleine McDowell Member
Joan Miles Alternate
Arthur Mittermaier Member
Miriam Mittermaier Member
Joanne Nonnekes Member
Carol Ray Member
Lynda Rogers Member
Deb Schulte Member
Lynn Short Member
Rolande Smith Member
Vito Spatafora Member
Nancy Stewart Member
Jane Underhill Member
Bill Wilson Member
G67 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3106 July 18, 2006
GUESTS
Jean Boutot Mount Dennis Community Association
Amanda Green Mount Dennis /Eglinton Flats Community Association
Annie MacLeod Resident
John Milligan Chair, Palgrave Community Action Site
Antonio Saladino Mount Dennis Community Association
Henry Verbruggen Regional Municipality of York
Dave Watkins Mount Dennis Community Association
STAFF
Alex Blasko Planner, Environmental Assessment
Sonia Dhir Watershed Resources Planner, Humber
Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber
Kasey Livingston Project Ecologist, Claireville Community Stewardship Project
Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber
Beth Williston Manager, Environmental Assessment
RES. #G32/06 - MINUTES
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Sharon Bradley
THAT the Minutes of Meeting #2/06, held on April 18, 2006, be approved CARRIED
CORRESPONDENCE
(a) Letter from the Ministry of Environment, dated November 16, 2004,
re: Ontario Regulation 903
RES. #G33/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Vito Spatafora
THAT the above -noted correspondence be received CARRIED
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3106 G68
(b) Submission from the Humber Watershed Alliance to the Ministry of Natural Resources,
dated July 7, 2006, re: Species at Risk Legislation
RES. #G34/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
THAT the above
Madeleine McDowell
Dianne Douglas
correspondence be received;
AND FURTHER THAT Joanne Nonnekes be thanked for her submission to the Ministry of
Natural Resources, on behalf of the Humber Watershed Alliance, with respect to the Species
at Risk Legislation CARRIED
PRESENTATIONS
(a) Toronto Historical Park
R. Smith of La Societe d'histoire de Toronto gave a brief presentation on the concept of a
Toronto Historical Park (THP). The purpose of the THP is to make it a destination of choice for
residents and tourists alike that promotes the history of the Humber. This feasibility project has
received funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation as well as the Ministry of Tourism and
would include such amenities as a path, a plaque, and discovery walk trails.
Major components of the plan include:
•
•
•
•
A footbridge which has been rebuilt;
First Nations pavilion;
Sculptures;
Promotion of Savannah Forest;
Rousseau Site Interpretation Station;
Use of Old Mill Subway Station to tell the story of the Humber.
R. Smith was thanked for her very informative presentation.
G69 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
RES. #G35/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER REPORT CARD INDICATORS #1 and #6 to #11
To provide an update on the Humber Report Card and provide indicators
#1 and #6 to #11 for the Humber Watershed Alliance to review.
Suzan Hall
Deb Schulte
THAT the staff report on the Humber Report Card Indicators #1 and #6 to #11 be received;
THAT members of the Humber Watershed Alliance review and provide major comments and
suggestions on the next to final text for Indicators #1 and #6 to #11;
AND FURTHER THAT the remaining indicators be brought to the Humber Watershed Alliance
at the regularly scheduled meeting in October, 2006 when major comments and suggestions
may be provided CARRIED
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE COMMENTS
Indicator #1: Significant Landforms
• Scores should be explained, condensed and be press ready;
• Executive Summary is necessary;
• Rating scale should be available for comparative purposes;
• The good news and bad news sections are very informative;
• Include the recent Boyd Park victory in the Report Card;
• Focus on what is different from the 2000 Report Card;
• Current efforts could be in the condensed version;
• We have an opportunity to show a trend and every indicator should show that,
whenever possible;
• Talk about different areas (ie. Claireville) In the last ten years, the Report Card would
show an "E" and the major flaw is that Claireville has been neglected in terms of
progress made. The Report Card should show weak areas such as this.
Indicator #6 and #7: Groundwater Quantity and Quality
• No rating criteria is available;
• Emphasize significant features statements (use color print, legend, bold etc).
Indicator #8: Stormwater Management
No comments.
Indicator #9: Bacteria
• Where is the monitoring station for West Humber and Claireville?
• Look at the percentage of monitoring stations meeting PWQ. Does this mean that BC
met the criteria 5% of the time which is less than 100? Why?
• Could the chart associated with this indicator be as detailed as the chart in indicator
#10?
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G70
Indicator #10: Conventional Pollutants
• The chart associated with this indicator is useful in terms of what things mean.
• A map of locations would be useful.
Indicator #11: Heavy Metals and Organic Contaminants
• Substances being monitored should be more clearly identified;
• What is meant by Tier 1 and 2?
• How many municipalities have adopted ISO standards?
• Does TRCA observe ISO 14,000 standards?
• Audobon standards have been recommended. Is that TRCA's favourite choice of
program?
• We need something indicating in what direction we should go to get the biggest bang
for our buck].
• 'How to Get There' is not prioritized.
BACKGROUND
The Humber Watershed Alliance released A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed in 2000. This award - winning document provided an initial assessment of the health
of the Humber River watershed. The Humber Watershed Alliance has a commitment to
providing a report on the health of the Humber every three years. In 2003, a Progress Report
was published to provide an update on current efforts related to 15 key indicators. The 2006
Report Card will provide an update on watershed condition for 26 out of 28 of the original
indicators. After lengthy discussions, the Report Card Subcommittee recommended that
indicators #26: Aesthetics and #27 Business Stewardship be removed for the 2006 Report
Card.
The Humber Alliance was brought the following indicators for review and comment at meeting
#2/06 held on April 18, 2006:
• #16 - Air Quality
•
•
•
#17 - Heritage Resources
#18 - Heritage Events
#19 - Public Greenspace
#20 - Outdoor Recreation
#21 - Trails
The following indicators have received input from Report Card Subcommittee members and
are now presented to the Alliance for their review:
• #1 - Significant Landforms
• #6 - Groundwater Quantity
• #7 - Groundwater Quality
• #8 - Stormwater Management
• #9 - Bacteria
• #10 - Conventional Pollutants
• #11 - Heavy Metals and Organic Contaminants
G71 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
Members of the Alliance are requested to provide the Report Card Subcommittee with
comments related to any major errors or omissions in the text (i.e. not for grammar or style) for
indicators #1 and #6 - #11. Comments should be provided to Lisa Turnbull by email -
Iturnbull@trca.on.ca phone - (416)661 -6600, extension 5325, or fax (416)667 -6278.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Report Card Subcommittee to sign off on next to final text for all indicators (September
2006) ,
• Report Card Subcommittee to sign off on final design (late September 2006);
• Draft of final product to be brought to the Humber Watershed Alliance for input /approval
(October 2006);
• Staff to layout and design the Humber Report Card (November 2006);
• Production (December 2006);
• Distribution /Media Release /Event (Spring 2007 - Earth Day).
RES. #G36/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
STRUCTURE, MEMBERSHIP AND OBJECTIVES OF THE
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE
Invite the existing Humber Watershed Alliance membership to provide
comments and suggestions for the future structure, membership and
objectives of the Alliance.
Nancy Stewart
Lynda Rogers
THAT staff consider the suggestions provided by the members when assembling a Humber
Watershed Alliance in the future to assist TRCA with protecting, restoring and celebrating the
Humber watershed CARRIED
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE COMMENTS
Membership
• Investigate whether there are any new community groups along the Humber not
currently represented on the Alliance;
• Is the ratio between residents and community groups still appropriate?
• Include more ratepayers groups;
• Ratepayers may not have a watershed wide interest;
• Have someone from the press at Alliance meetings;
• Consider appointing a school trustee as the voice of education would be beneficial;
• Consider having the school board appoint a community representative with an interest
in ecology;
• The biggest problem is renewal during the term. A three year term is lengthy and as a
result, members drop off. If members are not taking participating any longer, they must
be replaced immediately;
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G72
In terms of representing the TRCA Board, it is helpful to have people there who will take
up the cause. For example, when the Alliance sends a letter to TRCA, there is support;
• Is there any advantage to having a quasi official appointment on the TRCA Board?
• It would be advantageous to have a resident on the TRCA Board representing the
Alliance rather than a politician;
• Seek a representative from the commercial /industrial sector who has a business and
who supports sustainability;
• Have we asked NGO groups who influence policy at a provincial level to participate?
• A word of caution: Our strength is that we have many people who are committed and
interested mainly at a grassroots level. We could end up with too many people who,
although may be interested, are merely appointed by their organization;
• We must encourage new Canadians to become involved;
• In Richmond Hill, there are more and more new Canadians using our rivers for "river
offerings ". We should be aware of these positive issues involving new Canadians.
Structure
• Community Action Site model works well as people live in the same neighbourhood
and often share a common goal;
• Subcommittees that are geographically- structured are preferred. The logistics ofgetting
to meetings are simplified and it's easier to get members to attend;
• To get things done on the ground, geographically- structured subcommittees work best.
Mandate
• The Alliance's primary mandate should be to address the issue of motorized vehicles as
this is becoming a big problem;
• The Alliance's primary mandate should be sustainability (social, economic and
environmental issues all together);
• Consider including fundraising in the Alliance's mandate;
• Could have a policy- minded mandate wherein a Policy Subcommittee reviews and
comments on policy documents such as the Species at Risk Legislation, Official Plans
etc.;
Term
The three year term was set to be in accordance with the municipal term but perhaps a
two year term would be more suitable;
A two -year term might be Tess daunting.
Ideas
• Consider making a presentation to the TRCA Board, on an annual basis, on what the
Alliance is doing and reporting on any major issues we see. TRCA only hears
complaints from the Alliance;
• Let the Alliance know when TRCA is planning to sell surplus lands;
• Have an Alliance representative working with TRCA when corporate decisions are being
made such as future directions and visioning etc.
G73 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
BACKGROUND
TRCA is committed to watershed management using volunteer, community -based task forces.
The predecessor of the Humber Watershed Alliance was the Humber Watershed Task Force
which was established in 1994 to assist with the development of Legacy: A Strategy for a
Healthy Humber. Since 1997, the Humber Watershed Alliance has existed and its primary
mandate has been to facilitate actions to meet the objectives set out in the watershed
management strategy. TRCA is very proud of the group and its many accomplishments to
date. However, in October 2006, the third term of the Alliance will end. Therefore, it is an
appropriate time to ask the members for comments and suggestions that can be considered
when that might make the structure, membership and mandate of the group more effective and
efficient in the future.
The following questions are provided for your consideration:
1. Are there any changes that you would make to the membership?
2. How should the members be structured to be the most effective at achieving the
objectives of the watershed management strategy (ex. project specific, theme,
geographic area, other)?
3. What do you think should be the primary mandate of the Humber Watershed Alliance?
4. Other ideas that could make the Humber Watershed Alliance more effective or improve
your experience as a member.
An overview of the existing Terms of Reference is provided for your reference.
Membership
TRCA Chair
14 municipal elected representatives
25 residents
11 community groups
5 agency staff
6 business /academic institutions
Term 3 years
Structure
Responsibilities
3 subwatershed committees
Report Card /Policy Committees
Community Action Site Committees
The Humber Watershed Alliance shall:
1. Initiate and recommend to the Authority and other partners, regeneration and
stewardship projects and activities in consultation with the regional and local
municipalities, Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan and other watershed
stakeholders that will lead to the realization of the vision for the Humber and implement
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G74
"Legacy: A Strategy for a Healthy Humber" , "A Report Card on the Health of the
Humber River ", and "The 2003 Humber Watershed Progress Report";
2. Assist with the development of the Humber Watershed Plan to meet the requirements of
the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan;
3. Assist with the development of subwatershed plans;
4. Assist with source protection planning;
5. Adhere to the basic principles of sound ecosystem management that recognizes the
interrelationship between cultural heritage,- physical characteristics, biological
conditions and economic needs, and the integration of conservation, restoration and
economic activities necessary for the health of the watershed;
6. Act as the Humber watershed advocate in large projects that cross municipal
boundaries and support major projects advocated by others which will protect,
regenerate and celebrate the Humber;
7. Continue to promote the Humber Pledge to municipal councils, agencies, businesses,
community organizations and others throughout the watershed;
8. Develop the second Humber Watershed Report Card scheduled for publication in 2006;
9. Assist in gaining financial and in -kind resources;
10. In conjunction with the TRCA and others, host technical forums leading to
improvements in planning and practice, throughout the watershed;
11. Inform watershed communities about regeneration through public meetings,
publications, displays and special events;
12. Support the Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto and the delivery of the Living -
City Campaign;
13. Provide leadership in watershed management;
14. Act as a united voice for addressing issues relevant to the municipal, provincial, and
federal governments;
15. Provide a framework for meaningful community involvement in watershed management;
16. Build capacity within the general community to deliver watershed management
products and services;
17. Maintain and enhance contacts within the community regarding watershed
management issues;
G75 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
18. Contribute a level of service that addresses regional needs and opportunities such as
environmental policy development, and sustainable tactics and strategies;
19. Work collaboratively with TRCA staff, and other watershed /waterfront advisory
committees on issues of common concern;
20. Advocate and assist with maintaining the natural heritage, human heritage and
recreational values that identify the Humber as a Canadian Heritage River;
21. Support local community groups;
22. Consult and involve individuals, interest groups, communities, businesses, industry and
government agencies in the realization of the vision of the Humber watershed.
RES. #G37/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
NOBLETON SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT PROGRESS REPORT
Progress report on the Nobleton Sewage Treatment Plant Class
Environmental Assessment process and the development of a
Phosphorus Offset Strategy to mitigate nutrient loadings to the Humber
River.
Deb Schulte
Vito Spatafora
THAT the staff report on the Nobleton Sewage Treatment Plant and the development of a
Phosphorous Offset Strategy be received for information.
AMENDMENT
RES #G38/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Deb Schulte
Vito Spatafora
THAT as soon as information on the Kleinburg Sewage Treatment Plant is available, it will be
sent to the Humber Watershed Alliance members.
THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED
THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The community of Nobleton, located in the Township of King at Highway 27 and King
Sideroad, has a population of 3,200. The Community of Nobleton is currently serviced by
private on -site sewage systems (i.e. septic tanks and tile fields). Previous studies have
concluded that saturated tile fields and improperly functioning septic systems could result in
contamination of surface waters and potential environmental and health concerns. The Class
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G76
Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Nobleton Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) reviewed
options for the treatment and disposal of sewage for a projected population of 6,500 persons in
the year 2016.
The Class EA process concluded that the preferred solution for sewage servicing for Nobleton
was the collection of sewage, treatment at a new sewage treatment plant, and discharge to the
Main Branch of the Humber River downstream of Bolton, where sufficient assimilation was
established. The EA was approved, with conditions, by the Ministry of Environment in 2003.
Effluent quality criteria for treated effluent discharge to the Humber River were established in
consultation with the MOE as follows:
Parameter
Proposed Objective*
Proposed Compliance Limit **
Biological Oxygen Demand
5 mg /L
10 mg /L _
Total Suspended Solids
5 mg /L
10 mg /L
Total Phosphorous
0.10 mg /L
0.15 mg /L
Total Ammonia
0.75 mg /L
1 mg /L ..
E. Coli
< 100 organisms /100 mL
< 200 organisms /100 mL
* used to establish design requirements for sewage treatment processes.
** monthly average concentration measured at the treatment plant.
Phosphorous Offset
Concerns were raised from TRCA and MNR during the review of the Class EA regarding
increased phosphorous loading to the Main Branch of the river as a result of the discharge of
treated sewage. At full build -out, the sewage treatment plant will discharge approximately 37
L/sec of treated effluent to the Humber River with an estimated annual load of 160 kg of
phosphorous.
The Humber River is classified as a "Policy 2" water body by the Ministry of the Environment
(MOE) because phosphorous concentrations in the river exceed the Provincial Water Quality
Objective of 0.03 mg /L for phosphorous in rivers. In consideration of this, the MOE approved
the Class EA for the Nobleton STP provided that the increased phosphorous loading to the
Humber River is offset by reductions from other sources in the watershed.
The MOE has requested a target offset of 320 kg /yr, a value twice that of the projected Toad to:
• Achieve a net reduction in phosphorous loading to the Humber River and
• Account for the fact that the STP discharge is made up of bioavailable phosphorous
and offsets achieved from other sources in the watershed may not be as available for
algal growth.
The offset strategy will be focused on lands within the Humber watershed area upstream of
Nashville Road, as this is in general the receiving area upstream of the STP outfall. This
strategy will form a part of the Certificate of Approval for the Nobleton STP.
As an additional consideration at detailed design, a wetland will be created at the STP outlet
from a portion of an existing oxbow adjacent to the river. This constructed wetland will provide
G77 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
a functional benefit in phosphorous control at the STP outlet. Although the habitat benefits
from the constructed wetland will be minimal, it will serve to reduce the concentration of bio-
available phosphorous levels during the summer growth season. This will provide water
quality benefits to the Humber River during the period when an excess of bio- available
phosphorous would have the greatest impact. Additional water quality benefits of the wetland
will include a reduction in ammonia and nitrogenous oxygen demand during the summer
months.
Strategy Development
TRCA is working closely with York Region and the design team to develop a comprehensive
strategy to meet the target offset of 320 kg /yr. The development process has included
meetings with TRCA Planning and Development, Watershed Management and Property staff,
as well as separate meetings with MOE to ensure that a feasible and effective strategy is
brought forward to meet the offset targets and provide a net ecological gain.
The strategy focuses on the analysis of priority areas where it was determined that loading
reductions and landowner cooperation were most likely to be feasible. These include:
1. The decommissioning septic systems within the Town of Nobleton.
2. The examination of opportunities at the Cold Creek Conservation Area.
3. The conversion of Slokker Development properties east of the Town of Nobleton to
forest.
4. Review of the TRCA Agricultural Non Point Source (AGNPS) model for the East Humber
River.
5. Three candidate sites for stormwater management pond retrofits, provided by TRCA.
6. Five candidate sites on TRCA property where enhanced agricultural stewardship could
result in offsets.
7. A TRCA -owned field immediately adjacent to the Nobleton STP site, currently cultivated
for soybean production..
8. TRCA land holdings in the Humber River watershed that are currently in agricultural
production.
The preliminary analysis concluded that the target offset could be exceeded through
decommissioning septic systems in Nobleton, land use conversions on the Slokker property
and nutrient management changes to a dairy operation in the TRCA -owned Albion Hills. As a
contingency, the retirement of TRCA agricultural lands on poor soils (CLI land class 3 -8) would
provide additional offset in excess of the immediate requirements.
It is expected that a strategy can be developed to feasibly achieve the required phosphorous
offset of 320 kg /yr. The implementation of the phosphorous offset strategy, in conjunction with
the commissioning of the Nobleton STP, will provide numerous environmental benefits to the
watershed and its residents. These include:
1. Decommissioning of failing septic systems in the Town of Nobleton.
2. Provision of modern sewage treatment to Nobleton, with no significant impacts to the
Humber River.
3. Reduced phosphorous loading to the East and Main Branch of the Humber River.
4. Increased wildlife habitat and groundwater recharge in newly forested areas.
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G78
5. Decreased surface runoff from exposed soils on agricultural land.
6. Increase public amenity spaces in the Slokker Development and along the Humber
River.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
A revised Phosphorous Offset Strategy has recently been submitted for review by TRCA. Staff
will provide comments on the revised strategy, and work with the design team to implement
the strategy through the following steps:
1. Confirm the proposed strategy with TRCA and MOE staff.
2. Document the specific offset program in the Certificate of Approval for the Nobleton
STP.
3. Negotiate improvements to the Albion Hills Dairy Farm with TRCA staff.
4. Phase agricultural activities off of the Slokker Canada lands as the Nobleton STP is built
out.
5. Allow those lands to naturalize, or develop a system of planting and parkland
development.
6. Obtain permits from TRCA for the construction of the outlet structure and wetland.
RES. #G39/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY RESULTS - 2006
The results of a public opinion survey for residents of the Humber River
watershed.
Deb Schulte
Sandy Agnew
THAT the results of the Humber Public Opinion Survey, as submitted by Pollara Strategic
Public Opinion and Market Research,dated June 29, 2006, be received CARRIED
BACKGROUND
At Humber Watershed Alliance meeting #2/06, held on April 18, 2006, resolution #G19/06 was
adopted as follows:
"THAT the staff report on the Humber Public Opinion Survey 2006 be received;
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance provide comments to Karen Sun by April 28,
2006 related to the draft public opinion questions;
AND FURTHER THAT a terms of reference be developed for the public opinion survey
and that a consultant be hired to finalize and conduct the survey."
A terms of reference was prepared and submitted to five market research consultants who
were asked to submit quotes to conduct a public opinion survey and market research. Quotes
were based on 25 questions.
G79 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
The following consultants were approached:
Ipsos Reid Group, Pollara Strategic Market Research, Gallup Canada, Matrix Research and
Environics Research Group. Of the five consultants contacted, only two submitted quotes as
follows:
NAME OF MARKET RESEARCH COMPANY
QUOTE RECEIVED
Ipsos Reid Group
$35,750, plus GST
Pollara Strategic Market Research
$22,500, plus GST
Pollara Strategic Public Opinion and Market Research was hired to undertake market research
on public awareness, public attitudes and public behavioural patterns related to environmental,
heritage and recreation issues in the Humber River watershed.
It was agreed that the public opinion survey would:
•
use a statistically - reliable sample size reflected in two geographic areas: urban area
(south of King Road /Mayfield Road); and rural area (north of King Road /Mayfield Road);
analyze differences between socio- demographic groups (age, gender, ethnicity,
income, location);
compare results to Statistics Canada data to ensure reliability and complete
representativeness;
pre -test the survey instrument to ensure that the logic flows smoothly and the questions
are clear to the respondents and interviewers;
provide in -depth strategic analysis, recommendations and conclusions in Power Point
format with embedded speaker notes and full colour graphic illustrations.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
• Incorporate the outcomes of the survey into the report card indicator descriptions and
measurements.
RES. #G40/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER WATERSHED PLANNING STUDY - RESPONSE TO HUMBER
WATERSHED ALLIANCE MEMBERS COMMENTS ON TECHNICAL
BACKGROUND REPORTS
A summary of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff
responses to Humber Watershed Alliance members' comments on the
watershed planning technical background reports.
Dianne Douglas
Madeleine McDowell
THAT the staff report addressing the comments of the Humber Watershed Alliance on the
watershed planning technical background reports be received CARRIED
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G80
BACKGROUND
In support of the Humber River Watershed Planning Study, information gathering and technical
study was initiated in 2004 to describe current conditions in the Humber River watershed, to
identify current watershed management issues of concern, and future trends.
Studies and information gathering was undertaken for the following watershed components:
Air Quality;
Aquatic System;
Cultural Heritage;
Fluvial Geomorphology;
Groundwater System;
Land and Resource Use;
Policy Framework;
Public Use;
Surface Water Quality;
Surface Water Quantity (including Low Stream Flow and Water Use); and,
Terrestrial System.
Draft technical background reports have been prepared, or are in the process of being
prepared, to summarize the findings from each of these component studies. The following
Humber Watershed Alliance members offered to review and provide comments on the
background reports:
Lynn Short
Bill Wilson
Peter Telford
John Willetts
Yamile Rijo
Madeleine McDowell
Rolande Smith
Royce Fu
Sharon Bradley
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
Aquatic Systems and Groundwater
Surface Water Quality
Air Quality and Policy Framework
Public Use
Public Use and Land and Resource Use
Cultural Heritage
Cultural Heritage
Policy Framework
Terrestrial System
Staff will report on key findings from the remaining technical background reports on the
Groundwater System and Land and Resource Use at the next Humber Watershed
Alliance meeting on October 17, 2006.
Draft Watershed Plan to be completed (November 2006).
Public consultation to take place (November 2006 - January 2007)
G81 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
RES. #G41/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
DISPOSAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL DRUGS
The proper disposal of pharmaceutical drugs to ensure no adverse
effects on the environment.
Deb Schulte
Madeleine McDowell
THAT the staff report on the disposal of pharmaceutical drugs be received for information.
AMENDMENT
RES. #G42/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Bill Wilson
Lynn Short
THAT TRCA staff check the Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR) website and that a letter be
sent to major pharmaceutical companies and the City of Toronto and Region of Peel and
York requesting that they increase public awareness of the serious health and environmental
risks caused by improper disposal of pharmaceutical drugs and to promote the methods
and locations where expired or unused drugs can be taken for safe disposal.
AND FURTHER THAT information on the proper disposal of pharmaceutical drugs be sent to
all Councillors within the Humber watershed in order that this information can be passed
along to their constituents through their regular newsletters.
THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED
THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The Humber Watershed Alliance, at its meeting #2/06 held on April 18, 2006, adopted the
following resolution:
WHEREAS the Humber Watershed Alliance is concerned that unused or outdated
pharmaceutical drugs are not being disposed of properly;
THAT staff be directed to investigate the feasibility of an advertising campaign being
initiated for the proper disposal of pharmaceutical drugs possibly through pharmacies
(IDA Association or Shoppers Drug Mart);
AND FURTHER THAT the matter be referred to staff for a report back to the Humber
Watershed Alliance on how to best deal with the issue of the disposal of pharmaceutical
drugs and to determine how significant an issue it is.
CONCERNS
According to Health Canada, there is growing evidence that improper disposal of prescription
and non - prescription drugs (i.e. throwing into the garbage, flushing into the sink or toilet), may
have a harmful effect on the environment.
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G82
Some medications, if improperly disposed of, can become toxic when released into the
environment. Pharmaceutical waste can contaminate groundwater and natural watercourses
and soil.
Pharmaceutical waste can act as endocrine disruptors, which can be harmful to the growth,
development and reproduction of aquatic species.
Although there is not enough strong evidence, there is some concern about pharmaceuticals
disposed into the environment possibly adding to the problem of antibiotic resistance.
CURRENT INITIATIVES
Some pharmacies have introduced a drug disposal program.
For example, Shoppers Drug Mart has an Expired Meds Program which has been in place
since last year all across Canada. The program is free of charge.
The purpose of the Expired Meds Program is to reduce the impact on the environment by
ensuring that patients dispose of medications appropriately. In this way, they are diverted
away from our water supply.
The Expired Meds Program works as follows:
•
•
A patient can go to any Shoppers Drug Mart with their expired medications. These
should be in their original containers;
The medications are placed into the Pharma -Pail in their original containers;
When the container is filled with consumer - related medications, the Pharma -Pail will be
closed and prepared for Purolator transport. The bill of lading will be completed and
attached to the top of the lid of the pail;
The Service Request form, will be completed, signed and faxed to Medical Waste
Management (MWM) for pick up scheduling. MWM is the company that provides the
containers to the Distribution Centre. Inside the GTA, pick up will be done by MWM.
Outside the GTA, pick up is available via Purolator.
Stores then re -order Pharma -Pails direct from the Distribution Centre (suppliers of the
containers).
Appropriate items include consumer medication returns (tablets, liquids, creams, and
ointments). Also accepted are syringes, pen needles, lancets, insulin pump infusion
supplies, and test strips. Aerosol inhalers are also accepted.
The following items will not be accepted:
Anatomical or Cytotoxic waste (i.e. body parts /fluids, human waste /excretions from persons
under drugs used in oncology or radiotherapy).
Hazardous waste material (i.e. corrosive, explosive, flammable, poisonous products).
Non - compliance with these conditions would result in termination of the program.
Once pharmaceuticals are officially introduced as a designated material under the
Ontario Waste Diversion Act, Waste Diversion Ontario will implement a diversion plan.
In June 2006, The Proposed Draft Designating Regulation for Municipal Hazardous or
G83 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 July 18, 2006
•
Special Waste under the Ontario Waste Diversion Act (which includes pharmaceuticals
as designated Municipal Hazardous Special Waste, was made available for public
comment.
The National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) is working with
various associations to develop pharmaceutical disposal programs.
Health Canada is in the process of developing new Environmental Assessment
Regulations (EAR) for products regulated under the Food and Drugs Act, including
pharmaceuticals. The draft regulations will be developed over the next few years.
Municipalities also have household hazardous waste (i.e. toxic, poisonous products)
collection programs which includes pharmaceuticals.
Region of Peel:
• Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)can be disposed free of charge at one of the four
Community Recycling Centres in Peel (a limit of 20 gallons or 80 litres of HHW material
per resident per day is accepted.)
• The Region has not initiated any public awareness campaigns but does mail out an
annual waste collection schedule which provides necessary information on HHW
disposal.
For more information please visit: http: / /www.region.peel.on.ca /pw /waste /hhw /symbols.htm
York Region:
• HHW can be disposed of free of charge at one of York Region's Public Drop -off Depots.
• The region initiated a HHW campaign from April to May 2006 which consisted of print
advertisements in local newspapers to increase public awareness about HHW disposal;
advertisements on six buses in Newmarket and six in Vaughan.
• Draft study in progress titled " Attitudes and awareness for proper disposal methods of
HHW." The purpose of this study is to follow up with residents on the effectiveness of
the HHW public awareness campaign.
• June 24, 2006 was HHW drop -off day. HHW drop -off day was also promoted by print
advertisements. All participants received a free bag of compost that day and could
participate in a contest for a $100 gift certificate at Canadian Tire.
For more information please visit:
http: / /www.region.york.on.ca/ Services / Garbage+ and +Recycling /Household +Hazardous +Wa
ste.htm
(provides links to advertisements)
City of Toronto:
• Household hazardous waste can be disposed of at the City's HHW Depots.
For more information please visit: http: / /www.toronto.ca /garbage /hhw.htm
In conclusion, the preliminary research suggests that the problem of appropriate disposal is
understood and that the industry, associated associations and government have put programs
into place or are developing pharmaceutical disposal programs. Therefore, it is recommended
that staff do not investigate further the feasibility of an advertising campaign for the disposal of
pharmaceutical drugs.
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G84
Sources:
http : / /www.hc- sc.qc.ca /iyh- vsv /med /disposal - defaire e.html
http://www.on.ec.qc.ca/pollution/ecnpd/pharmaceuticals e.html
http:// www. ene. qov .on.ca /envregistn/ /027728er.htm
RES. #G43/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
WORKING GROUP COMMITTEE REPORTS
The minutes of the following working groups are provided for
information.
Joanne Nonnekes
Miriam Mittermaier
THAT the following minutes be received:
• Cold Creek Stewardship Committee #4/06, #5/06 and #6/06
(Apr. 5th, May 10th and June 7th )
• East Humber Subwatershed Committee #2106 and #3/06 (May 16th and June 20th)
• Lower Humber Subwatershed Committee #2106 (May 16th)
• West Humber Subwatershed Committee #2/06, #3/06 and #4/06
(Apr. 25th, May 9th and June 13th )
• Humber Report Card Subcommittee #4/06, #5/06, #6/06 and #7/06
(May 2 "d, May 17th May 31' and June 27th) CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
Societe d'histoire de Toronto Adventure Rally
R. Smith extended an invitation to all members to attend the 1' Annual Family Adventure Rally
on Sunday, September 17, 2006 at Etienne Brule Park. An email will be sent to members
providing the details of the event.
G85 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3106 July 18, 2006
Berton Trail in the City of Vaughan
I. Craig advised that the City of Vaughan has referred the establishment of the Berton Trail to
the Committee of the Whole meeting on September 5, 2006 for a further staff report to address
members' comments.
TRCA Nursery Building
I. Craig reported that the TRCA Nursery Building, located at Rutherford Road and Islington
Avenue, will be vacated in the fall. This would be an ideal site to showcase First Nations
artifacts. Members will be asking TRCA to defer dispensing of the land until such time as
members determine whether there is any interest in the proposal.
Claireville Conservation Area - BMX Proposal
Members requested that for the next West Humber meeting, on September 12th, an appropriate
amount of time be set aside to discuss the BMX proposal at the Claireville Conservation Area.
All appropriate TRCA staff should be in attendance to provide updated information and answer
any questions that may arise.
Lt. -Gov. John Graves Simcoe Walk
The annual Lt. -Gov. John Graves Simcoe Walk will be held on Saturday, September 23rd. For
additional information, contact Madeleine McDowell.
Mount Dennis Community Association Planting
The Mount Dennis Community Association hosted a planting at Jane Street and Lambton
overlooking Eglinton Flats. Heritage Toronto hosted a walk recently which included the newly-
planted site.
Ontario Nature Network
J. Nonnekes reported that as a member of the Ontario Nature Network (ONN), representing the
Humber Watershed Alliance, she recently met with the Northern Ontario Nature Group. Copies
of ONN resolutions, relating to All Terrain Vehicles and Ontario Greenway, were distributed to
members as examples of issues being discussed. If members have any items they would like
to present to the ONN, J. Nonnekes would be pleased to oblige. Resource materials are
available on loan and will be brought to the next Humber Watershed Alliance meeting.
July 18, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/06 G86
Living City Campus at the Kortright Centre for Conservation
Members requested that a presentation be made at the next Humber Watershed Alliance
meeting on the status of the Living City Campus at Kortright. D. Schulte and J. Nonnekes have
been involved as the Alliance's representatives. J. Nonnekes will coordinate the presentation
with G. Wilkins.
RES. #G44/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
PHOSPHORUS LADEN DETERGENTS
Madeleine McDowell
Alyson Hazlett
THAT a letter be sent to the provincial government requesting them to ban the use of
phosphates in detergents and to enforce same CARRIED
DOOR PRIZE
As a token of the Authority's appreciation for the members' participation on the Humber
Alliance, G. Wilkins advised that door prizes will be drawn at the end of each Alliance meeting.
The grand prize available at this meeting was a Humber polo shirt and "The Humber: Tales of
a Canadian Heritage River" authored by Ron Fletcher, and two additional Humber polo shirts.
The winning tickets belonged to Bill Wilson, Sandy Agnew and Lynn Short, respectively.
TERMINATION
ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:30 p.m., July 18, 2006.
Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney
Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer
/L.
THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE
MINUTES OF MEETING #4/06
AUTHORITY
MEETING #10/06
JANUARY 5, 2006
THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 Page G87
October 24, 2006
The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, October 24,
2006. Lois Griffin, Chair of the Humber Alliance, called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m.
PRESENT
Mary Louise Ashbourne Member
Maria Augimeri Member
Jim Bradley Member
Sharon Bradley Member
Bill Buchan Member
lain Craig Member
Royce Fu - Member
Krisann Graf Member
Ian Gray Member
Lois Griffin Chair
Alyson Hazlett Member
Elaine Heaton Member
Ron Hingston Member
Jeff Hladun Alternate
Gaspar Horvath Alternate
David Hutcheon Member
Kathrine Mabley Member
Madeleine McDowell Member
Joan Miles Alternate
Hugh Mitchell Member
Arthur Mittermaier Member
Miriam Mittermaier Member
Joanne Nonnekes Member
Brendan O'Hara Member
Carol Ray Member
Randall Reid Member
Lynda Rogers Member
Deb Schulte Member
Rolande Smith Member
Nancy Stewart Member
Peter Telford Member
Horst Truttenbach Member
Bill Wilson Member
G88 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 October 24, 2006
GUESTS
Suzanne Barrett Consultant
STAFF
Mike Bender Supervisor, Conservation Land Planning
Vince D'Elia Project Ecologist, Centreville Creek Environmental Stewardship Program
Sonia Dhir Watershed Resources Planner, Humber
Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber
Kasey Livingston Project Ecologist, Claireville Community Stewardship Project
David Love Executive Director, Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto
Lisa Turnbull Project Manager, Humber
Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber
RES. #G45/06 - MINUTES
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Sharon Bradley
Nancy Stewart
THAT the Minutes of Meeting #3/06, held on July 18, 2006, be approved subject to the
following revisions:
On page G68, the first bullet point should read, "A footbridge which would be rebuilt ";
On page G72, the last bullet under the Membership heading reads, "...We should be
aware of these positive issues involving new Canadians ". It was agreed that the word
"positive" be deleted CARRIED
CORRESPONDENCE
(a) Letter to the Ministry of the Environment, dated September 26, 2006,
re: Disposal of Pharmaceuticals
(b) Letter to Councillors, Planning Departments and Public Health Departments
Of Municipalities within the Humber Watershed, dated
October 3, 2006 re: Safe Disposal of Pharmaceuticals
(c) Letter to Major Pharmaceutical Companies, dated October 5, 2006,
re: Safe Disposal of Pharmaceuticals
(d) Letter from the Minister of the Environment, dated October 5, 2006,
re: Environmental Enforcement Statute Law Amendment Act
October 24, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 G89
RES. #G46/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Nancy Stewart
THAT the above -noted correspondence be received CARRIED
(e) Draft Letter to Brian Denney, TRCA's Chief Administrative Officer, from the Humber
Watershed Alliance, dated October 24, 2006, re: The Living City Campus
RES. #G47/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Bill Wilson
Joanne Nonnekes
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance has expressed its support for the aforementioned
letter to be formalized and sent to Brian Denney on their behalf CARRIED
(f)
Draft Letter to the Hon. Rona Ambrose and the Hon. Laurel Broten, Ministers of
Environment, from the Humber Watershed Alliance, dated October 24, 2006, re:
Renewal of the Canada - Ontario Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes Basin
Ecosystem
RES. #G48/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
Madeleine McDowell
Nancy Stewart
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance has expressed its support for the aforementioned
letter to be formalized and sent to the Hon. Rona Ambrose and the Hon. Laurel Broten,
Ministers of Environment on their behalf CARRIED
PRESENTATIONS
(a) Gifts of Clean Air and Clean Water
David Love, Executive Director of Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto gave a brief
presentation on the giving program. Donation forms were provided and members were
encouraged to make donations to the program. Members were assured that 100% of their
donations would go directly towards restoration work on the Humber.
(b) Living City Campus at the Kortright Centre for Conservation
Mike Bender, Supervisor, Conservation Land Planning group at TRCA gave a presentation on
the Living City Campus Vision and its components which include the Southern Gateway, the
Core Campus, and the Northern Region.
G90 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 October 24, 2006
RES. #G49/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
HUMBER WATERSHED REPORT CARD 2006
Completion of A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed 2006.
David Hutcheon
Sharon Bradley
THAT the final draft of A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed 2006
as appended, dated October 24, 2006, be endorsed;
THAT the Humber Report Card Subcommittee and TRCA staff be authorized to make any
minor changes to the text and presentation style which do not alter the intent or meaning, or
change significantly, the final draft document;
THAT the Humber Report Card Subcommittee and TRCA staff be congratulated for their hard
work and dedication to bringing the report card to completion;
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance express its thanks to The Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority, municipalities, agencies, organizations and individuals who have
contributed to A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed 2006 ;
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance forward the final report to The Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority for their endorsement;
THAT an official public announcement be made regarding the completion of the Humber
Report Card and its findings;
AND FURTHER THAT A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed 2006
be presented and distributed to government agencies, watershed municipalities, groups,
schools, and the public throughout the Humber Watershed.
AMENDMENT
RES. #G50/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
David Hutcheon
Sharon Bradley
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance express its thanks and appreciation to TRCA staff for
all their work on the Humber Watershed Report Card.
THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED
THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED
Members were encouraged to direct their comments to Lisa Turnbull at TRCA via phone or
email (Iturnbull@trca.on.ca) no later than Friday, November 3, 2006.
October 24, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 G91
HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE COMMENTS
Indicator #2: Forest Cover
• Prefer to see the use of word comments rather than symbols wherever possible;
• Explain the ranking going from D to C as shown in the table. Is this due to Caledon's
efforts?
• The Aboriginal Forest cannot be lost. We must do something to preserve any
connection with the Nursery, City of Toronto and other municipalities.
Indicator #3: Wetlands
No comments
Indicator #4A: Natural Vegetation Cover (Quantity)
• Important to distinguish between wetlands and drylands.
Indicator #4B: Quality Distribution of Natural Vegetation Cover
No comments
Indicator #5: Wildlife
No comments
Indicator #6: Groundwater Quantity
No comments
Indicator #8: Stormwater Management
No comments
Indicator #9: Bacteria
• Explain the Blue Flag Program in more detail.
Indicator #10: Conventional Pollutants
No comments
Indicator #11: Heavy Metals and Organic Contaminants
No comments
Indicator #12: River Flow
• Water flow in the East Humber seems to have been reduced. Is there any.connection
between the flow and the golf course north of Kleinburg? Is the TRCA looking at this?
• In terms of bacteria, there is a lot of garbage and washing out happening because of
the increased barriers due to dragon boats. We cannot get rid of the pollution which is
already there.
• Staff will contact Tim Van Seters re: Sunnyside Beach sediments.
• The Lower Humber baseflow rates increased while the headwater rates decreased.
• Check on water temperature.
G92 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4106 October 24, 2006
Indicator #13: Benthic Invertebrates
No comments
Indicator #14: Fish Communities
• Where is the Walleye fish stocking occurring?
• How sustainable is urban fishing? If it's not sustainable, why are we promoting it?
Reword and clarify the language.
Indicator #15: Riparian Vegetation
No comments
Indicator #16: Air Quality
No comments
Indicator #17: Heritage Resources
No comments
Indicator #18: Heritage Events
No comments
Indicator #19: Public Greenspace
No comments
Indicator #20: Outdoor Recreation
No comments
Indicator #21: Trails
• Include the Berton Trail as a good news item.
Under Current Efforts, revise the 5th bullet point to read, "The new chapter of the
Humber Valley Heritage Trail Association was established in 2004 in Kleinburg."
Indicator #22: Agricultural Lands
• What about waste management? It's dealt with in surface water and referred to as
waste diversion.
BACKGROUND
The Humber Watershed Alliance released A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed in 2000. This award - winning document provided an initial assessment of the health
of the Humber River watershed. The Humber Watershed Alliance has a commitment to
providing a report on the health of the Humber every three years. In 2003, a Progress Report
was published to provide an update on current efforts related to 15 key indicators. The 2006
Report Card, provides an update on watershed condition for 26 out of 28 of the original
indicators. Aesthetics and Business Stewardship have been removed for the 2006 Report Card
due to the lack of sufficient information and progress.
The Humber Watershed Alliance was brought the following indicators for review and comment
at meeting #2/06, held on April 18, 2006 and at meeting #3/06 held on July 18, 2006.
October 24, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 G93
Indicator #1 - Significant Landforms
Indicator #6 - Groundwater Quantity
Indicator #7 - Groundwater Quality
Indicator #8 - Stormwater Management
Indicator #16 - Air Quality
Indicator #17 - Heritage Resources
Indicator #18 - Heritage Events
Indicator #19 - Public Greenspace
Indicator #20 - Outdoor Recreation
Indicator #21 - Trails
The remaining indicators, introductions, background material and description of the report card
organization is provided.
The members are asked to look specifically at these areas and be prepared to offer final high
level comments on the material.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
•
•
The Report Card Subcommittee to incorporate the Humber Watershed Alliance's
comments and finalize A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed
2006 ;
TRCA staff to design and print A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed 2006 ;
Submit A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed 2006 to the TRCA
for their approval;
Officially announce the completion of A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River
Watershed 2006 and its findings;
Circulate A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed 2006' to
government agencies, watershed municipalities, groups, schools, and the public
throughout the Humber Watershed.
RES. #G51/06 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
WORKING GROUP COMMITTEE REPORTS
The minutes of the following working groups are provided for
information.
Madeleine McDowell
lain Craig
THAT the following minutes be received:
• Bolton Community Action Site Steering Committee (July 20th, August 17th, and Sept. 2155)
• Cold Creek Stewardship Committee #7/06 (September 6th)
G94 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 October 24, 2006
• East Humber Subwatershed Committee #4/06 (September 19'h)
• Lower Humber Subwatershed Committee #3/06 (September 191
• West Humber Subwatershed Committee #5106 (September 12`h) CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
TRCA Strategic Planning
D. Schulte requested that the TRCA consider giving future Alliance members the opportunity to
provide input on corporate visions and policies which may affect watershed management.
Janet and Pierre Berton Interpretive Trail Ceremony
I. Craig announced that there was a ceremony held at Boyd Park on Saturday, October 21,
2006 to commemorate the opening of the Berton Trail. Several members of the Berton family
were in attendance. Appreciation was extended to Gary Wilkins and his staff for getting the trail
approved.
Black Creek Project
In Sandy Agnew's absence, G. Horvath read a letter of thanks written by Sandy Agnew to the
Humber Watershed Alliance and the Humber Team.
Ontario Streams Event
H. Truttenbach invited members to attend the Ontario Streams Trout Spawning Survey event
on October 27, 2006 starting at 10 a.m. Waders and refreshments will be provided.
Boreal Forest
J. Nonnekes cited the importance of protecting our boreal forest and advised that there is an
event on November 6t. If anyone is interested in attending, they are urged to contact Joanne
Nonnekes directly.
October 24, 2006 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 G95
Ontario Nature Network
As the Humber Watershed Alliance is a member of the Ontario Nature Network, copies of the
ON magazine and brochure were made available to interested members.
Barns: Our Disappearing Heritage
B. Buchan advised that the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario is holding an event on
Saturday, October 28th, 2006 at 9 a.m. The event will include many guest speakers as well as a
tour of the McVean Barn. Interested members are urged to contact Kasey Livingston at TRCA.
Claireville Conservation Area
MOTION
Moved by:
Seconded by:
lain Craig
Elaine Heaton
THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance request the Report Card Subcommittee to address, in
the Humber Report Card, the issue of opening the Claireville Conservation Area to the
public.
THE MOTION WAS NOT CARRIED
MOTION TO DEFER
RES. #G52/06
Moved by:
Seconded by:
David Hutcheon
Joanne Nonnekes
THAT the matter of opening Claireville Conservation Area to the public be deferred to the
next Humber Watershed Alliance meeting;
AND FURTHER THAT staff prepare a report and provide a presentation addressing the issue
of opening Claireville Conservation Area to the public CARRIED
G96 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/06 October 24, 2006
SLIDE SHOW
A slide show titled, "Three Years in Review ", highlighting the Humber Watershed Alliance's
accomplishments over the three years of their term, was presented.
DOOR PRIZE
As a token of our appreciation, each Alliance member was presented with a framed picture to
recognize their dedication and commitment to watershed management.
TERMINATION
ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:30 p.m., October 24, 2006.
Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney
Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer
/L.