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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHumber Watershed Alliance 2007THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #1/07 ts. efrTHE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 Page G1 June 19, 2007 The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, June 19, 2007. Richard Whitehead called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m. PRESENT John Abbott Member Frank Alaimo Member Arshad Ali Member Karen Alison Member John Almond Member Jim Bradley Member Sharon Bradley Member Heather Broadbent Member Bill Buchan Member lain Craig Member Nick deBoer Member Vicky Dhillon Member Ann Marie Farrugia Alternate Fausto Filipetto Alternate Tony Flynn Member Larry Giles Member Robert Glover Member Annette Groves Member Ron Hingston Member Daniel Hoffman Alternate Gaspar Horvath Member David Hutcheon Member Kevin Laidley Member Leilani Lee -Yates Alternate Anan Lololi Member Mike Mattos Member Madeleine McDowell Member Jennifer McKim Member Tunde Miko Member Hugh Mitchell Member Peter Mitchell Member Miriam Mittermaier Member Cleve Mortelliti Member Joanne Nonnekes Member G2 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 Brendan O'Hara Member Lynda Rogers Member Carmen Schlamb Member Deb Schulte Member Lynn Short Member Rolande Smith Member Peter Swain Member Anyika Tafari Member Peter Telford Member Lisa Turnbull Member John Watson Member Joy Webster Member Richard Whitehead Acting Chair Iffat Zehra Member GUESTS Lois Griffin Past Chair, Humber Watershed Alliance Gerri Lynn O'Connor Chair, TRCA Elbert van Donkersgoed Executive Director, GTA Agricultural Action Committee STAFF Sonia Dhir Watershed Resources Planner, Humber Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber Susan Robertson Project Manager, Humber Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber Dean Young Coordinator, Subwatershed Planning WELCOMING REMARKS Lois Griffin, Past Chair of the Humber Watershed Alliance, welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked them for their commitment and interest in participating on the Humber Watershed Alliance. Gerri Lynn O'Connor brought welcoming remarks to the Humber Alliance members on behalf of The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. PRESENTATIONS (a) Urban Agriculture Elbert van Donkersgoed, Executive Director of the GTA Agricultural Action Plan Committee, made a presentation on urban and near -urban agriculture. His presentation focussed on redefining agriculture, challenges and advantages of near -urban agriculture, the importance of the food sector to the economy and Ontario's approach to environmental stewardship. June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G3 (b) Humber River Watershed Planning Study Gary Wilkins and Dean Young made a presentation on the Humber River Watershed Planning Study. Their presentation highlighted the purpose of the watershed planning study, watershed planning documents, summary of current conditions, scenario descriptions, objectives, indicators and targets, management considerations, and a summary of modelling results. The Chair thanked the presenters for their very informative presentations. RES. #G1/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: HUMBER RIVER WATERSHED PLANNING STUDY PROGRESS REPORT AND CONSULTATION SCHEDULE Status on progress of the Humber River Watershed Planning Study and proposed schedule for consultation on draft documents. Madeleine McDowell Larry Giles THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members assist with the review of the first draft of the Humber River Watershed Plan; THAT the proposed schedule for consultation on the first draft of the updated Humber River Watershed Plan and priorities for its implementation be endorsed; AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members assist with identifying new concept sites that demonstrate implementation of watershed plan recommendations CARRIED 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, City of Vaughan, Township of King, Township of Adjala - Tosorontio, Township of Mono, and other watershed stakeholders, initiated a watershed planning study to develop an updated, 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 and to update the Humber River watershed strategy, Legacy: A Strategy for a Healthy Humber (1997) based on new and improved technical information. A general work program for the watershed planning study was presented at Humber Watershed Alliance meeting #3/03 on July 15th, 2003 which outlined the three phase study process to be followed and the approach and initial schedule for consultation with stakeholders. At the meeting the following resolution was adopted: G4 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 THAT the Humber River Watershed Planning Study be initiated and undertaken in three 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 in the fall, and that the public /stakeholder involvement program for the remainder of the study be confirmed at the end of Phase 1; AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Humber Watershed Alliance at a future meeting with a detailed work program and on the progress of Phase 1 of the study. The Phase I characterization reports were summarized for Humber Alliance members who reviewed these documents and provided input to TRCA staff. A report describing the scenarios proposed to be examined during phase 2 of the study was presented at the Humber Alliance meeting #1/05 on January 18, 2005. At that meeting, the following resolution was adopted: THAT the future land use scenarios as described in the Phase 2 - Analysis and Evaluation Discussion Paper dated January 10, 2005, as appended, 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 Plan. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Progress Update • Work on phase 1 of the study, which involved developing an updated understanding of current conditions and identifying key watershed management issues has been completed. State of the Watershed Technical Reports have been completed for air quality, aquatic system, cultural heritage, fluvial geomorphology, geology and groundwater resources, land and resource use, nature -based recreation, surtace water quality, surtace water quantity, and terrestrial system. • Humber Alliance members volunteered to review and comment on selected State of the Watershed reports in March 2006 and their comments have been addressed in the final drafts of these reports. • Focus group meetings were held jointly with stakeholders from both the Humber and Rouge River watersheds to discuss innovative management strategies to address watershed management issues in October and November 2005. June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1107 G5 • Work on phase 2 of the study (scenario modelling and analysis) has been completed for nine different scenarios of potential future change to land and water use, climate and management approaches and will be presented to the Humber Alliance members at the June 19, 2007 meeting. • A draft report summarizing findings from phase 2 of the study (Modelling and Analysis Report) is anticipated to be completed in September 2007. • A first full draft of the Humber River Watershed Plan, drawing on the key findings from phase 1 and 2 of the study and input from focus group meetings has been completed. • The first draft Watershed Plan has been circulated to staff in the Planning, Public Works /Engineering and Parks and Recreation departments of all Humber watershed municipalities (local and regional) for review and comment over the summer of 2007. • The first draft Watershed Plan is available to Humber Alliance members for review and comment at this time. • In the future, we will be looking for locations in the watershed to focus our resources to achieve visible results that help meet the objectives of the management plan. These sites should have opportunities that illustrate how natural heritage, human heritage, recreation, and climate change mitigation objectives can be met. They should be visible and accessible sites and ideally have partners already willing to assist with implementation actions. We call these areas Community Action Sites. Proposed Consultation Schedule In order to coordinate the review and commenting process, the following schedule for presentation of key findings from the Watershed Planning Study and consultation on draft documents is proposed: • Presentation of Watershed Planning Study findings regarding current conditions, potential future conditions from scenario analysis work, and key issues that are addressed in the updated Watershed Plan at June 19, 2007 meeting. • Review and comment on first draft Watershed Plan between June 19 and August 31, 2007. • Municipal consultation during July and August, 2007. • Public information sessions in September 2007 to review regeneration project priorities and take Community Action Site nominations. • Presentation of final Watershed Plan management strategies and priorities for implementation on October 16, 2007. G6 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1107 June 19, 2007 RES. #G2/07 - SUBCOMMITTEE STRUCTURE OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE Establishing the subcommittee structure of the Humber Watershed Alliance. Moved by: Seconded by: David Hutcheon Madeleine McDowell THAT the following subcommittee structure for the Humber Watershed Alliance, 2007 -2009, be adopted CARRIED Agriculture Committee: Sonia Dhir, TRCA Staff Liaison Karen Alison, Toronto Resident Nick deBoer, Caledon Councillor Carole Dobson, Humber Arboretum Karine Jaouich /Daniel Hoffman, FoodShare Toronto Gaspar Horvath /Mike Peppard /Susan Horvath, Black Creek Project Kevin Laidley, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food Anan Lololi/Tinashe Kanengoni, Afri -Can Food Basket Jennifer McKim, Toronto Resident Hugh Mitchell, York Soil & Crop Improvement Association Peter Mitchell, University of Guelph Wally Seccombe, Everdale Organic Farm Anyika Tafari, Umoja Learning Circle Christie Young, FarmStart Iffat Zehra/Dr. Tahir, Community Economic Development for Immigrant Women Bolton /Nashville Management Plan Committee: Deanna Cheriton, TRCA Staff Liaison John Abbott, Caledon Resident Frank Alaimo, Heritage Vaughan John Castel, Mono Councillor Annette Groves, Peel Councillor /Leilani Lee -Yates Ron Hingston, King Resident Peter Meffe, Vaughan Councillor John Milligan, Caledon Resident Cleve Mortelliti, King Councillor /Gaspar Ritacca Joanne Nonnekes, Vaughan Resident Lynda Rogers, King Resident Gino Rosati, York Regional Councillor Sean Stuart, Caledon Resident Peter Swain, Caledon Resident Bill Wilson, Caledon Resident Joy Webster, Adjala - Tosorontio Councillor *Other non - Alliance members to be determined June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1107 G7 Claireville Committee: Gary Wilkins, TRCA Staff Liaison Arshad Ali, Brampton Resident Bill Buchan, Brampton Resident lain Craig, Vaughan Resident Vicky Dhillon, Brampton Councillor /David Waters Dianne Douglas, Mississauga representative Tony Flynn, Toronto Resident Robert Glover, Toronto Resident Mike Mattos, Toronto Resident Jennifer McKim, Toronto Resident Tunde Miko, Toronto Resident Miriam Mittermaier, Toronto Resident Deb Schulte, Vaughan Resident Lynn Short, Toronto Resident John Watson, West Humber Naturalists John Willetts, Friends of Claireville Bill Wilson, Caledon Resident Heritage Committee: Susan Robertson, TRCA Staff Liaison Mary Louise Ashbourne /Joan Miles, Humber Heritage Committee Heather Broadbent, Caledon Resident Tony Flynn, Toronto Resident Larry Giles /David Moote, Brampton Heritage Robert Hulley, Architectural Conservancy of Ontario Madeleine McDowell, Toronto Resident Brendan O'Hara, Don Bosco College Secondary School Randall Reid, Etobicoke Chamber of Commerce Rolande Smith, La Societe d'histoire deToronto Kettle Lakes Nature Reserve Committee: Gary Wilkins, TRCA Staff Liaison Jim Bradley, Richmond Hill Naturalists Sharon Bradley, Richmond Hill Resident Greg Beros, Richmond Hill Councillor /Ann Marie Farrugia Alison Collins - Mrakas, Aurora Councillor /Fausto Filipetto Mike Logan, Citizens' Environment Watch Carmen Schlamb, Seneca College King Campus Lisa Turnbull, Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation *Other non - Alliance members to be confirmed (Gordon Gray, 2 provincial representatives, York Region, Richmond Hill, Oak Ridges Trail Association) G8 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 Planning and Policy Committee: Gary Wilkins, TRCA Staff Liaison John Abbott, Caledon Resident John Almond, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Larry Giles, Brampton Heritage David Hutcheon, Toronto Resident Leilani Lee Yates, Region of Peel John Marsden, Environment Canada Mike Mattos, Toronto Resident Madeleine McDowell, Toronto Resident Jennifer McKim, Toronto Resident Joanne Nonnekes, Vaughan Resident Deb Schulte, Vaughan Resident Peter Telford, Toronto Resident BACKGROUND The approved Terms of Reference for the Humber Watershed Alliance, dated March 21, 2007, state that: • The Humber Watershed Alliance will undertake its work through the active involvement of its members on at least one working committee; • Committees will be established on an 'as required' basis and will be dissolved when their work is substantially complete; • Committees will be established to deal with specific projects as determined by the Humber Watershed Alliance and TRCA staff; • A committee Chair and Vice -Chair will be appointed for each committee; • The committee Chair and Vice -Chair can be either a member or an alternate member of the Alliance; • Committee Chairs will be responsible for implementing their Terms of Reference as approved by the Humber Alliance and report to the Alliance on a regular basis. Committees will meet regularly, usually monthly, except for those months when the full membership meets which is quarterly. The Chair of each subcommittee, with input from the other members, will confirm their meeting schedule. RES. #G3/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: TRCA DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCESS AND HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE MANDATE Review of the TRCA development review process and Humber Watershed Alliance mandate. Lynn Short Heather Broadbent June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1107 G9 THAT the staff report on the TRCA development review approval process and Humber Watershed Alliance mandate, in this regard, be received; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff inform Humber Watershed Alliance members of major Authority projects being planned or undertaken within the Humber watershed, and of major planning initiatives or projects of others where the Authority may be a commenting or permitting body CARRIED BACKGROUND At meeting #5/03 of the Humber Watershed Alliance, held on October 21, 2003, resolution #G46/03 was adopted which states: "THAT the TRCA staff be requested to prepare a report and make a presentation, at the first meeting of the next term of the Humber Watershed Alliance, on the process followed by TRCA staff for commenting on development applications, issuance of permits and applicable policies and practices utilized in this process; AND FURTHER THAT the mandate of the Humber Watershed Alliance regarding the review of development applications and issuance of permits governed by Ontario Regulation 158, be described at the first meeting of the next term of the Humber Watershed Alliance." 1. Planning Framework The TRCA, through its role in plan review and the regulation of development, works in partnership with member municipalities to protect natural hazard and natural heritage areas. In this regard, the TRCA reviews and comments on municipal planning documents and development applications, to protect and regenerate natural systems and to prevent, eliminate, or reduce the risk to life and property from flooding, erosion of river banks, and slope instability. The Planning Act is the primary piece of legislation governing land use planning in Ontario. The Planning Act sets out the policies by which a municipality must implement land use planning decisions. Conservation Authorities are a prescribed agency under The Planning Act; this means that CAs are able to provide comment to municipalities on development applications that may impact natural hazard and natural heritage systems. Under section 3 of The Planning Act, the 2005 Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) was issued which articulates the main interests of the province that must be considered through the planning process; Section 3.1 of the PPS speaks directly to the management of natural hazards. The Planning Act requires that municipalities and other agencies involved in planning shall be consistent with" the policies of the Provincial Policy Statement when reviewing and approving development applications. Through an agreement with the Province, Conservation Authorities are responsible for upholding Section 3.1 of the Provincial Policy Statement, which outlines the need to direct development outside of natural hazard areas, such as valley and stream corridors. G10 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 Section 2.1 of the PPS outlines the provincial interest in protecting natural heritage features and areas from development. Provincially significant wetlands and the significant habitat of endangered and threatened species are expressly protected from all development. Other features, such as significant wetlands, significant woodlands, significant valleylands, significant wildlife habitat and significant areas of scientific and natural interest (ANSIs) are also afforded a certain level of protection; development may occur within or adjacent to these features only if there will be no negative impacts on the natural features and ecological functions of the area. Additionally, section 2.2 of the PPS outlines the provincial interest in protecting the quality and quantity of water by: using the watershed as an ecologically meaning scale for planning; minimizing negative cross- jurisdictional watershed impacts; identifying surface water, ground water, and hydrologic functions and terrestrial natural heritage features, as necessary to the ecological and hydrological function of the watershed; maintaining linkages for water -based features; implementing restrictions on development and site alteration to protect all municipal drinking water supplies and vulnerable or sensitive ground or surface water; to promote efficient and sustainable use of water resources; and to ensure sustainable stormwater management practices. Section 2.2 also refers to the necessity to implement mitigative measures and /or alternative development approaches in order to protect, improve or restore sensitive surface water features, sensitive ground water features, and their related hydrologic function. Regional municipalities have been delegated the responsibility of upholding the natural heritage policies of the Provincial Policy Statement. However, recognizing the expertise of Conservation Authorities in the area of natural heritage protection, many Authorities provide municipalities with technical review and advice on issues of natural heritage protection. The TRCA's role in protecting natural heritage through plan review is formalized in agreements with all of its regional municipal partners, and a mix of formal and informal agreements with local municipalities. The role of Conservation Authorities in development review has expanded, from strictly managing development adjacent to natural hazards, to providing expertise in natural heritage protection, including terrestrial, aquatic, and surface and ground water management. Section 20 of the Conservation Authorities Act (CA Act) provides CAs with the mandate to carry out broad resource management programs on a watershed basis. Section 20(1) - Objects: The objects of an authority are to establish and undertake, in the area over which is has jurisdiction, a program designed to further the conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources other than gas, oil, coal and mineral. R.S.O. 1990, c.C.27, s.20. Further, under section 21 of the CA Act natural resource programs and policies aimed at conserving, restoring, developing, and managing those resources can be issued. Powers of authorities: For the purposes of accomplishing its objects, an authority has power, June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G11 (a) to study and investigate the watershed and to determine a program whereby the natural resources of the watershed may be conserved, restored, developed and managed; (j) to control the flow of surface waters in order to prevent floods or pollution or to reduce the adverse effects thereof; (k) to alter the course of any river, canal, brook, stream or watercourse, and divert or alter, as well temporarily as permanently, the course of any river, stream, road, street or way, or raise or sink its level in order to carry it over or under, on the level of or by the side of any work built or to be built by the authority, and to divert or alter the position of any water -pipe, gas -pipe, sewer, drain or any telegraph, telephone or electric wire or pole. It is under sections 20 and 21 that allowed the TRCA to adopt the Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program (VSCMP) in 1994, in order to guide the review of development applications in regard to natural hazards and natural heritage areas. 2. 1994 Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program The Authority's Valley and Stream Corridor Program was an initiative which consolidated and articulated Authority policy and practices to the time of its adoption in 1994. The document was intended to replace various related programs of the 1980 Watershed Plan and the 1986 Watershed Plan Update and other policy amendment documents of the Authority and Province. The program was organized to integrate the Authority's public safety responsibilities and reaffirm its commitment to ecosystem planning at a watershed level. Valley and streams are interconnected systems, not isolated features. Valley and stream corridors were vulnerable to development impacts, and the policies were established to direct land use to ensure that corridor systems are protected and /or enhanced. Cumulative impacts to the natural system, inclusive of aquatic and terrestrial resources must be considered in making planning decisions. The VSCMP defines the limits of valley and stream corridors as including significant areas that are within and /or immediately adjacent to a valley or stream corridor, and 10 metres inland (if the valley is stable). The main thrust of the TRCA's policies and procedures for undeveloped valley and stream corridors is to: Prevent new development that would introduce risk to life and property associated with flooding, erosion and slope stability and /or is not compatible with the protection and rehabilitation of these natural resources in the natural state. Technical studies are required in support of development applications (inclusive of infrastructure and servicing projects) to demonstrate that they are consistent with the intent of the Management Program. G12 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 The VSCMP promotes the protection of watercourses and valleys in their natural state and recognizes that on occasion, watercourses may be altered to accommodate development. The elimination of watercourses for development purposes is not supported. The VSCMP recognizes that 'other infrastructure and servicing such as pipelines, hydro corridors and vehicular transportation corridors may need to cross valley and stream corridors' on occasion. Services, such as roadways, should be carefully sited and designed to: • Prevent risk associated with flooding erosion, or slope instability; • Protect and rehabilitate existing landforms, features and functions; • Provide for aquatic, terrestrial and human access. Likewise, the Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy has been adopted under sections 20 and 21 of the CA Act, and works in concert with the VSCMP to further protect and restore natural heritage systems through the planning process. In addition to reviewing site specific development applications, the TRCA provides input and technical support in the development and implementation of municipal Official Plans, Secondary Plans, environmental studies and reports, and special municipal by -laws (e.g., Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan conformity, tree, ravine, sediment and erosion control, fill and grading, etc.). Through participation in various committees, workshops and studies, the TRCA provides valuable information and advice on flood control, stormwater management, and the protection of natural features and functions within its watersheds. Involvement in these processes ensures that concerns of the TRCA, such as protection of natural heritage systems, are considered throughout the municipal land use planning process. In addition to providing municipalities with advice on applications under the Planning Act, the TRCA reviews applications in respect to the Environmental Assessment Act, the Fisheries Act, the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act, the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act, The Greenbelt Act and other applicable legislation. The TRCA provides technical and scientific expertise to support the environmental planning function of municipalities, providing recommendations on how development should proceed to maintain, or where possible, enhance or restore the natural environment. 3. Ontario Regulation 166/06 Under section 28 of the CA Act, the TRCA administers Ontario Regulation 166/06, the Authority's Development, Interference to Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation. Ontario Regulation 166/06 constitutes a regulatory update from Ontario Regulation 158, triggered by the Generic Regulation process and adopted in May 2006. The aim of the Generic Regulation process is to ensure consistency in regulating development in and adjacent to natural hazard lands across the province and to expand areas currently regulated by Conservation Authorities. Instead of the traditional Fill, Construction and Alteration to Waterways regulation (Ontario Regulation 158), Conservation Authorities now maintain a development and alteration regulation. Through Ontario Regulation 166/06 the TRCA has expanded its regulated areas to include watercourses, waterfront lands, inland lakes (including kettle lakes), river and stream valleys, wetlands, and hazardous lands. The Generic June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G13 Regulation process affords more protection to existing natural heritage features within regulated areas, and allows the TRCA to regulate in a manner more consistent with the philosophy of assessing the ecological, hydrological and natural heritage functions of a watershed. Through Ontario Regulation 166/06, the TRCA has the ability to regulate: i) development; ii) inference to wetlands; and iii) alterations to shorelines and watercourses. It is through the conservation of land aspect of TRCA's regulatory mandate that the protection of the terrestrial natural heritage system can be addressed. The conservation of land, as defined by the Credit Valley Conservation Authority (CVC, 1996, Appendix D) is "the management of land resources (soil and related plant life) such that its environmental integrity is not adversely affected." The Mining and Lands Commission found that the conservation of land "includes all aspects of the physical environment, be it terrestrial, aquatic, biological, botanic or air and the relationship between them (Appeal No. CA 007 -92, 1994, pg. 63). These broad definitions of conservation of land acknowledge the evolution of TRCA's policies and programs, further recognizing the ecosystem approach to land use planning. 3a) Review of Permit Applications The TRCA's permitting process is mandated under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act. Section 28 outlines the Development, Interference with Wetlands, and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulations which is enforced by the TRCA. See Figures 1 and 2 for an illustration of the review and approval process for planning and permit applications. Section 28 Regulations by Authority Regarding Area Under Its Jurisdiction 28(1)- Subject to the approval of the Minister, an authority may make regulations applicable in the area under its jurisdiction, (a) restricting and regulating the use of water in or from rivers, streams, inland lakes, ponds, wetlands and natural or artificially constructed depressions in rivers or streams; (b) prohibiting, regulating or requiring the permission of the authority for straightening, changing, diverting or interfering in any way with the existing channel of a river, creek, stream or watercourse, or for changing or interfering in any way with a wetland; (c) prohibiting, regulating or requiring the permission of the authority for development if, in the opinion of the authority, the control of flooding, erosion, dynamic beaches or pollution or the conservation of land may be affected by the development; (d) providing for the appointment of officers to enforce any regulation made under this section or section 29; G14 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 (e) providing for the appointment of persons to act as officers with all of the powers and duties of officers to enforce any regulation made under this section. 1998, c.18, Schedule I, s.12. 3b) Review of Minor Variance /Consent/Site Plan Applications Municipal building permit clearances come from residents or municipalities that require the TRCA to approve a plan before an Ontario Building Code Act permit is issued. Where there are no TRCA issues, this can be processed relatively quickly through a Permission to Minor Works Letter of Approval, a faxed memo to the applicant, or a verbal confirmation to the appropriate person at the municipality. TRCA has an interest in reviewing and responding to an application when the subject property is within and /or adjacent to any of the following: • valley /stream corridor • watercourse • TRCA regulated area • engineered or estimated floodplain • special policy area • ESA • ANSI • wetland • woodlot • shoreline • Oak Ridges Moraine • Niagara Escarpment • Greenbelt • and other natural feature The application is checked for conformity with TRCA policy and regulation. For example: i) Does the plan meet the objectives of the VSCMP? (Is the site subject to flooding, slope and erosion hazards, ecological impacts, appropriate setbacks, permitted uses, etc. If so, is the nature of the development proposed in conformity with TRCA policy ?) Is a permit (Ontario Regulation 166/06) required in addition, or concurrently with any application being reviewed. ii) Does the application have enough information to assess the above, or are additional studies required such as: • Environmental Impact Study /or Statement • Stormwater Management Report • Geotechnical /Slope Stability Report • Flood study/ hydraulics report/ meander belt assessment/ detailed topographic map • Site and Grading Plans • Erosion and Sediment Control Plans June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G15 • Landscaping /Site Rehabilitation Plans • Others as deemed necessary • Impact on TRCA owned lands iii) Is there an opportunity to achieve a net - ecological gain through the review and approval of this application? TRCA comments are forwarded to the municipality or applicant depending on who submitted the application. 3c) Review of Concept Development/Property Inquiries When a proposed development does not require a permit under Ontario Regulation 166/06 and does not affect the policies of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), it can be processed as a Concept Development. A Concept Development is often used to demonstrate to municipal staff that a client has contacted the TRCA with respect to a proposed development that requires a municipal building permit. Concept Development proposals generally do not trigger any applications under The Planning Act. 4. Niagara Escarpment Commission The Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) have an established partnership where TRCA staff provide technical review (engineering, ecological, geotechnical, etc.) for all NEC permit applications within this Authority's jurisdiction. All NEC applications are mandated under The Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act. Under Section 24 of the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act, applicants within the NEC's jurisdiction are required to obtain a development permit from the NEC. The NEC then circulates necessary documents to the appropriate Conservation Authorities, Municipalities and other required agencies. All NEC applications are reviewed by TRCA Planning and Development Staff, subject to the policies outlined in this Authoritys Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program (VSCMP).The review of these applications should follow standard Planning and Development Department review protocol (i.e., screening, circulation to technical staff, site visits, comments, etc.). The TRCA provides technical and scientific expertise to support the environmental planning function on how development should proceed to maintain, or where possible, enhance or restore the natural environment. 5. Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act The Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, which is pursuant to the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act, is implemented mainly at the municipal level. Where municipal official plans or zoning by -laws conflict with the provincial policy, the provincial policy will apply. Municipalities are required to implement the principles of the provincial plan and reflect them in their own official plans and zoning by -laws. Where appropriate, municipalities may also develop policies on land uses other than agriculture and mineral aggregate extraction that are more restrictive than those in the provincial plan. G16 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 During the review of planning applications (O.Reg. 166/06 permit applications are not subject to the ORMCP), TRCA is asked to screen for significant natural features, such as Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features located on the subject property, as identified in the ORMCP. While municipalities are the ultimate approval authority for planning applications, the Authority still maintains an interest in conserving and preserving Key Natural Heritage Features and Hydrologically Sensitive Features within the ORM generally and provides technical advice and assistance to municipalities through the review and approval of ORMCP planning applications. 6. Roles a) TRCA Executive Committee The Executive Committee meets monthly, as does the Authority, and has been delegated some of the day -to -day management decisions of the Authority, including the administration of the Authority's Fill, Construction and Alteration to Waterways Regulation and the permits issued related to the regulation. b) Humber Watershed Alliance The mandate of the Humber Watershed Alliance, regarding the review of development proposals and issuance of permits, is described in their Terms of Reference dated December, 2003. Section 3.9, Reporting Relationship, states: "The Humber Watershed Alliance is not a formal commenting body. However, Authority staff will advise the Watershed Alliance of major Authority projects being planned or undertaken within the Humber watershed and of major planning initiatives or projects of others where the Authority may be a commenting or permitting body. The Humber Watershed Alliance may provide comments or other information for the consideration of staff and the Authority. On a project or application specific basis, the Authority or Authority staff may request comments from the Watershed Alliance. These comments will be provided or sought within the time frame necessary to maintain the Authority's service delivery standards." 7. Procedure for Informing the Humber Alliance of Major Planning Initiatives and Projects Generally, major planning initiatives and projects that will be of greatest interest to the Humber Watershed Alliance will be related to Environmental Assessments, policy documents and projects specific to TRCA property. From time to time, large developments that may impact significant natural features may also warrant some review and comment by the Alliance. Environmental Assessments and Policy Documents For environmental assessments and policy documents affecting the Humber River watershed, Planning and Development staff will request the proponent add the Chair of the Alliance and the Humber Watershed Specialist to the public distribution list so that all future steps in the process are communicated directly to the Humber Watershed Alliance. As a normal part of procedure, the Humber Watershed Specialist will be part of the internal TRCA review team. June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G17 Humber Watershed Alliance members will have the option of attending public meetings and providing comments as unaffiliated residents. When warranted, environmental assessments and policy documents will be the subject of discussion at Humber Watershed Alliance meetings. Formal comments may be submitted by the Chair of the Alliance on behalf of the group. Joint submissions by interested watershed task forces is another option to communicate a larger, united voice. Environmental assessments and other major policy documents are posted on the Ministry of the Environment Environmental Bill of Rights Registry at: http: / /www.ene.gov.on.ca /envision /env_reg /ebr /english /index.htm Members can respond during these public review periods as unaffiliated residents. Major Development - Related Projects Affecting TRCA Land Humber watershed staff will review reports going to TRCA Boards and add pertinent ones to the Humber Watershed Alliance agenda as information items. The Humber Watershed Specialist is the primary contact person and will provide further details to members at Alliance meetings and undertake any follow -up required. When timing is an issue because the Alliance is not scheduled to meet, Humber Watershed staff will inform the Chair of the Humber Watershed Alliance and those members who have known expressions of interest in a particular project. The Watershed Specialist will convene meetings, as necessary, to discuss the project and determine any necessary action. Due to unforeseen circumstances, from time to time, there is some urgency to accelerate the presentation of reports to the TRCA Boards. In such cases, Planning and Development staff will immediately notify the Humber Watershed Specialist when reports on projects of concern are scheduled to be taken to TRCA Boards. The Watershed Specialist will, in turn, inform the Humber Watershed Alliance Chair and members who have a known expressed interest in the project. General Planning and Development staff also have weekly meetings and Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (S.W.O.T.) meetings bi- weekly, to review files. Any major projects or issues of a controversial nature will be brought to the attention of the Watershed Specialist who will, in turn, inform the Alliance. Members are welcome to attend these meetings if more detail is needed. Project proponents will be asked to attend Humber Watershed Alliance meetings periodically to present their proposal and answer any questions. Planning and Development staff and other technical TRCA staff will attend Humber Watershed Alliance meetings when requested by the Humber Watershed Specialist to speak to projects and related Board reports. G18 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 Copies of letters and written comments from the Humber Watershed Alliance addressed to the TRCA Chair, Advisory Boards or Full Authority will be circulated to appropriate Planning and Development staff. There will be staff orientations scheduled to ensure there is clear understanding of roles and good exchange of information on major planning initiatives and projects. The Humber Watershed Specialist will be the primary contact with Planning and Development staff. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE • TRCA staff to inform the Humber Watershed Alliance of major planning applications or issues that have the potential to significantly impact the condition of the watershed Humber Watershed Alliance members have the following options: • provide comments to TRCA staff on an issue or application received for Executive Committee consideration; • pursue the issue or application as an independent individual or group not affiliated with the Humber Watershed Alliance; • provide comments to another group for inclusion in a joint submission on the issue or application. Figure 1 and Figure 2 - overleaf June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G19 FIGURE 1: PROCESS FOR PLANNING APPLICATIONS Confirm location Confirm TRCA interests • valley /stream corridor • watercourse • fill regulated area • fill extension program area • floodplain • special policy area • ESA • ANSI • wetland woodlot shoreline Oak Ridges Moraine Niagara Escarpment other natural feature File Check • previous history? Review • conformity with policy? • permit required? • studies needed? (Environmental Impact Study) • send reports for technical review Site Visit • top of bank staking • geotechnical • other Comments to municipality or applicant • no objection • conditional approval • more information needed • revisions needed • refusal Permit Review Process, if required (see Figure 2) G20 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 FIGURE 2: PROCESS FOR PERMIT APPLICATIONS Screening • confirm fill regulated area • confirm regional storm floodplain • sedimentation • placement or removal of fill • conservation of land • other Assign file number Technical Review • slope stability • planting plans • stormwater • other Site Visits • identify issues • identify limits of development Formal Correspondence • send comments to applicant Revisions • circulated to staff for review Permit Reports • recommendations sent to Executive Committee • hearing held before refusing an application Appeal • referred to Mining and Lands Commissioner within 30 days of permit refusal. June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G21 RES. #G4/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: HUMBER WATERSHED BUS TOUR To host an orientation bus tour to familiarize members with the Humber watershed. Tony Flynn John Abbott THAT a Humber Watershed Bus Tour be held on Saturday, September 15, 2007; AND FURTHER THAT interested members be requested to indicate their interest in attending by August 31, 2007 CARRIED BACKGROUND In order to familiarize new Humber Alliance members with the watershed and selected projects, either completed or currently being implemented, TRCA staff is hosting a bus tour. Sites would include fishways, fish culture station, legacy of Hurricane Hazel, Discovery Walks, heritage sites, wetland creation, trails, stormwater management and much more...all made possible by the valuable contributions of the Humber Watershed Alliance and our partners. Members are encouraged to suggest any project which they would like to see included in the itinerary. The tour will leave from Black Creek Pioneer Village at approximately 9 a.m. and return at 3 p.m. Lunch will be provided. If there is not enough interest expressed by members, the bus tour will be cancelled so please let Lia Lappano know by August 315t whether you will or will not be attending. RES. #G5/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS: 2007 -2009 A schedule of meeting dates is proposed for the Humber Watershed Alliance. Peter Swain David Hutcheon THAT the meeting dates for the Humber Watershed Alliance scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on the following dates be approved; AND FURTHER THAT the meetings be held at the Black Creek Pioneer Village Visitors Centre, unless otherwise noted. G22 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 June 19, 2007 2007 DATES #1107 Tuesday, June 19, 2007 #2/07 Tuesday, October 16, 2007 2008 DATES #1/08 Tuesday, January 15, 2008 #2108 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 #3/08 Tuesday, July 15, 2008 #4/08 Tuesday, October 21, 2008 2009 DATES #1109 Tuesday, January 20, 2009 #2/09 Tuesday, April 21, 2009 RATIONALE A schedule of meetings is proposed to assist the Alliance. A random sample of municipalities were contacted to avoid choosing meeting dates that may conflict with municipal council meetings within the Humber River Watershed. Tuesday evenings are proposed. Meetings of the entire membership will be held quarterly. TRCA can provide meeting space to the Alliance on a regular basis at the Black Creek Pioneer Village Visitors Centre. This location is central to the watershed and easily accessible. However, the Alliance is encouraged to have meetings at various locations throughout the watershed. Suggestions for other meeting locations are welcome. NEW BUSINESS RES. #G6/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: SALT ADVERTISEMENTS BY CANADIAN TIRE CORPORATION Madeleine McDowell Heather Broadbent WHEREAS the Humber Watershed Alliance is concerned about the Canadian Tire Corporation television advertisements endorsing the placement of salt to clean domestic swimming pools; THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance's concern be referred to the Authority to determine whether any action can be taken to withdraw the advertisements CARRIED BACKGROUND An advertisement has recently appeared on television showing a man dumping chemicals into his swimming pool. It is obviously a very difficult process involving water purification. He is June 19, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/07 G23 distracted and it all goes wrong. Then, an encouraging voice tells him to go to Canadian Tire where they will help him with a much simpler system and all he needs to do is add salt. It then shows him adding a huge bag of salt to his pool and the voice talks about this wonderful natural system /substance. Salt is a bio- hazard by federal statute and an acknowledged environmental damager. Where does the pool water go? Can the ads be withdrawn? Will the misinformation be corrected? Presentation Material J. Abbott requested that paper copies of the power point presentations given be provided to members. It was agreed that the presentation material will be available to members at their first subcommittee meeting in September. The material will not be mailed or emailed. Living City Campus at Kortright J. Nonnekes requested an update on the status of the Living City Campus at Kortright. She indicated that recommendations were submitted to the Authority and enquired as to their implementation. RES. #G7/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: Joanne Nonnekes David Hutcheon THAT a report on the status of the Living City Campus at Kortright be brought to the Humber Watershed Alliance at their October 16, 2007 meeting CARRIED TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:50 p.m., June 19, 2007. Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer /L. THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #2/07 THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 Page G24 October 16, 2007 The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, October 16, 2007. Richard Whitehead called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. PRESENT John Abbott Member Arshad Ali Member John Almond Member Jim Bradley Member Sharon Bradley Member Heather Broadbent Member Bill Buchan Member lain Craig Member Vicky Dhillon Member Dianne Douglas Member Ann Marie Farrugia Alternate Larry Giles Member Ron Hingston Member David Hutcheon Member Kevin Laidley Member Leilani Lee -Yates Alternate Mike Logan Member John Marsden Member Mike Mattos Member Madeleine McDowell Member Tunde Miko Member Joan Miles Alternate Hugh Mitchell Member Peter Mitchell Member Miriam Mittermaier Member Joanne Nonnekes Member Brendan O'Hara Member Lynda Rogers Member Gino Rosati Member Deb Schulte Member Lynn Short Member Peter Swain Member Anyika Tafari Member Peter Telford Member G25 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 October 16, 2007 Lisa Turnbull Member Joy Webster Member Richard Whitehead Acting Chair Bill Wilson Member GUESTS Edith George Weston Historical Society Lisette Mallet Societe d'histoire de Toronto Alies Maybee Sideren Consulting John McHugh Don Bosco Catholic Secondary School STAFF Sonia Dhir Watershed Resources Planner, Humber Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber Susan Robertson Project Manager, Humber Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber Dean Young Coordinator, Subwatershed Planning RES. #G8/07 - MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: David Hutcheon Sharon Bradley THAT the Minutes of Meeting #1/07, held on June 19, 2007, be approved CARRIED CORRESPONDENCE (a) Email from Anne Hansen to Gary Wilkins, dated October 2, 2007, re: Dedication of Elms for the late Henry Kock (b) TRCA Staff Report to the Executive Committee #8107 (October 12, 2007), re: Purchase of the unopened Pine Valley Road allowance between Rutherford Road and Club House Road in the City of Vaughan. RES. #G9/07 Moved by: Seconded by: David Hutcheon Heather Broadbent THAT the above -noted correspondence be received CARRIED October 16, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 G26 PRESENTATIONS (a) TRCA Website Ms. Alies Maybee of Sideren Consulting gave a brief presentation on TRCA's website. TRCA is currently in the process of re- designing its website to make it more user - friendly and ensuring that all appropriate information is included. Members were asked to provide their input into this process. (b) Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) Ms. Leilani Lee -Yates of the Region of Peel gave a brief presentation on its Official Plan Review including: • Progress to date; • Sustainability, Water Resource and Natural Heritage Focus Areas; • Woodland and Wildlife Habitat Study; • Greenlands Strategy; • Next Steps and Upcoming Consultations. The Chair thanked the presenters for their very informative presentations. RES. #G10/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: HUMBER RIVER WATERSHED PLANNING STUDY DRAFT RECOMMENDATIONS Adoption of the Humber Watershed Planning Study recommendations. David Hutcheon Larry Giles THAT the draft Humber Watershed Planning Study recommendations be adopted by the Humber Watershed Alliance subject to the priorities and comments provided by the workshop groups at the Alliance meeting being factored in, as appropriate. AMENDMENT RES. #G11/07 Moved by: Seconded by: John Abbott Peter Telford AND FURTHER THAT an invitation be extended to all members of the Alliance to attend a meeting in November dealing specifically with the focus of the Humber River Watershed Planning Study and a brief presentation of the recommendations. G27 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 October 16, 2007 THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED BACKGROUND The Humber Watershed Plan was initiated in 2001, in accordance with the provincial requirements of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act (2001), and serves to guide municipalities through growth planning exercises for future development within the watershed based on a series of established recommendations. As part of the review and approval process of the plan, consultation with stakeholders, such as the Humber Alliance, is important. These recommendations are categorized into three broad themes: 1) Water & Aquatic; 2) Urban, Agriculture, Resource, Terrestrial & Air Quality; and 3) Heritage and Nature -Based Recreation. The recommendations have been organized according to themes. Humber Watershed Alliance members are asked to review and be prepared to comment on the recommendation assigned to them. However, should members wish to comment on other sections that would be welcome as well. Municipal staff from the City of Toronto and Peel and York Regions were given the opportunity to provide input to these recommendations at a workshop on October 9'". RES. #G12/ 07- KORTRIGHT AT THE LIVING CITY CAMPUS To provide a status report on the Kortright at The Living City Campus Moved by: Seconded by: lain Craig Dianne Douglas THAT the staff report on the status of the Kortright at The Living City Campus be received for information; AND FURTHER THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance be notified when the Kortright at The Living City Campus is scheduled to be presented to the full Authority. October 16, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2107 G28 AMENDMENT RES. #G13/07 Moved by: Deb Schulte Seconded by: David Hutcheon THAT TRCA staff arrange a meeting with Humber Alliance members to discuss their outstanding concerns about the proposal; THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED BACKGROUND The Humber Watershed Alliance, at its meeting #1/07 held on June 19, 2007, adopted the following resolution: "THAT a report on the status of the Living City Campus at Kortright be brought to the Humber Watershed Alliance at their October 16, 2007 meeting." The vision plan for Kortright at The Living City Campus has received considerable review and comment from both internal and external stakeholders. The existing vision plan is considered by staff as next to final. At some point in time, it will be presented to the full Authority for approval; however, no date has been identified for this. The Humber Watershed Alliance members will be notified when this item is scheduled to be presented to the Authority. RES. #G14/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE ON TRCA LANDS Preparation of a draft position paper and policy regarding sustainable agriculture on TRCA lands. David Hutcheon Gino Rosati THAT the draft position paper regarding sustainable agriculture on TRCA lands, dated September 2007, be adopted in principle by the Humber Watershed Alliance CARRIED G29 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 October 16, 2007 BACKGROUND Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) began acquiring land in the 1950's and 1960's for flood and erosion control purposes which resulted in the inventory of productive agricultural lands. Toronto and Region Conservation has always leased some of its lands for agricultural purposes on an annual basis. However, agriculture has always been regarded as an interim use; to be reforested sometime in the future or used for some other purpose. Today, the current farmland inventory for TRCA includes 54 agricultural properties, a total of 2960 acres: 2000 acres in the Rouge River watershed, 900 acres in Humber River watershed and 60 acres in the Duffins Creek watershed. Most of the agriculture taking place on TRCA lands can be classified as conventional agriculture, where traditional cash crops such as corn, soybean and hay are being grown, including a few livestock operations. Soil types on these lands are predominately "Prime Agricultural Land ", (class 1 to 3 soil) according to the Canada Land Inventory System. Toronto and Region Conservation's agricultural land rentals have been declining over the past 25 years. Land stewardship has also declined as short-term leases provide farmers with less incentive to farm in an environmentally sustainable manner. Tenants are slowly losing interest in their farm rentals due to lower revenues for cash crops such as corn, soybeans and hay. Accessibility to farmlands due to land fragmentation and congested roadways, urbanization and urban sprawl, have also had an economic impact on the farmer. Farms have been pressured by government and corporations to become more intensive, often leading to fewer farmers managing larger land holdings. Economic pressures have lead to a shift from the small, mixed farms of previous generations to large -scale farming operations requiring larger land holdings and innovative technology to remain viable. Consequently, many farmers are seeking off -farm employment to supplement their income and farm succession is declining (TRCA The Living Country Side, 2003). In 2006, research and writing of a draft position paper regarding sustainable agriculture on TRCA lands began to lead the development of a policy. The process involved an analysis of TRCA's current agriculture policies and initiatives, the formation of an internal working group at TRCA which worked on definitions and objectives for sustainable agriculture, and consultations with a wide range of potential partners interested in working with TRCA to pursue sustainable agricultural opportunities on its lands. SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE: NEW OPPORTUNITIES The concept of sustainability is especially important to include in a new vision for agriculture on TRCA lands. Sustainability has been particularly de- emphasized in past definitions for agriculture used by TRCA. In order to make TRCA farm lands viable in the long -term, not only is environmental sustainability important, agriculture practices must be sustainable economically and socially as well. Presently, the agriculture sector in Canada is working in partnerships to maintain and strengthen its sustainability in these three categories. A vision for a new form of agriculture on TRCA lands includes making farm areas more profitable through the use of new innovative agricultural production methods, (i.e. community gardens, CSAs, SPIN farming) which can be a contrast to the traditional commodity of business. October 16, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2107 G30 These options are community- based, support the local food system and are more environmentally sustainable. Toronto and Region Conservation can play a role in helping to revitalize agriculture in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) by establishing new partnerships and venturing into new agricultural projects on its lands. If new forms of agriculture are to be pursued on TRCA lands, future work includes undertaking a current environmental, social and economic assessment of suitable properties. TRCA AGRICULTURE INITIATIVES • In 2002 to 2003, TRCA drafted two polices: The Living Countryside, Draft Urban Agriculture Policy, (2003) and TRCA's Policies and Procedures for Farm Operations on TRCA Lands Environmental Management System, (2004). However, these polices are yet to be finalized. • In 2003, the Toronto Urban Farm was established at Black Creek Pioneer Village in response to the need for greater access to affordable and ethno - specific foods and the need for creating employment and leadership /learning opportunities for young people in this high density area. • The concept of a new form of "urban agriculture" has also been introduced into watershed planning documents (i.e. the Rouge and Humber River Watershed Plans). • In 2007, the GTA Agricultural Action Plan was provided office space, technological and professional assistance at Black Creek Pioneer Village. • In 2006 and 2007, TRCA initiated consultations with a wide range of potential partners interested in working with TRCA to pursue sustainable agricultural opportunities on its lands. These groups include: GTA Agricultural Action Plan, University of Guelph- Centre for Land and Water Stewardship, Community Economic Development for Immigrant Women, FarmStart and Ontario Farmland Trust. NEXT STEPS • Finalize a position paper describing the need and potential role for TRCA in near urban agriculture. • Lead an internal working group which will first focus on the development of an urban agriculture policy for TRCA land. • Finalize TRCA agricultural policies and implement. • Organize meetings and focus group sessions with farmer associations and potential partners wishing to work with TRCA to explore and initiate sustainable urban agriculture projects on TRCA land. G31 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 October 16, 2007 RES. #G15/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: ASSESSING IMPACTS OF SALT FROM SWIMMING POOLS To provide the following report on the Humber Alliance's recommendation regarding Canadian Tire Corporation television advertisements that endorse the placement of salt to clean domestic swimming pools, and to determine if any action can be taken to withdraw the advertisements. Sharon Bradley David Hutcheon THAT TRCA staff contact the Canadian Tire Corporation to advise them that salt has been declared a bio- hazard by federal statute, and is acknowledged as a hazard to the environment and therefore, they should refrain from promoting it in absence of proper disposal and enforcement methods; THAT City of Toronto staff be congratulated on their Toronto Sewer -Use By -Law and be encouraged to implement enforcement mechanisms as soon as possible to eliminate the draining of pools to water systems; THAT other municipalities be encouraged to adopt by -laws comparable to the City of Toronto's Toronto Sewer -Use By -Law in order to further protect our watersheds from the impacts of salt loading from swimming pools; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff continue to work with pool industry representatives to initiate a Green Plan that deals with the use and proper disposal of pool water containing dissolved salt. AMENDMENT RES. #G16/07 Moved by: Seconded by: Mike Mattos John Abbott THAT a letter be sent to pool industry representatives and appropriate government officials to make them aware of the harmful effects salt has on our water systems and to provide them with an opportunity to comment on what measures they are taking to reduce the use of salt and promote proper disposal of pool water; AND FURTHER THAT this item be brought to the next Humber Watershed Alliance meeting in January, 2008 with a revised recommendation based on comments received. THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED October 16, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 G32 BACKGROU ND The Humber Watershed Alliance, at its meeting #1/07 held on June 19, 2007, adopted the following resolution: "WHEREAS the Humber Watershed Alliance is concerned about the Canadian Tire Corporation television advertisements endorsing the placement of salt to clean domestic swimming pools; THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance's concern be referred to the Authority to determine whether any action can be taken to withdraw the advertisements." A current television advertisement for Canadian Tire promotes a new pool product referred to as a 'salt pool'. Salt pools are based on a new technology that uses salt as a substance in the water purification process to clean domestic swimming pools. Salt -pools have been identified as a concern by the Humber Alliance, as salt (sodium chloride) has been declared a bio- hazard by federal statute, and is acknowledged as a hazard to the environment. Short duration concentrations of salt between 800 and 1000 mg /L have been shown to create acute toxic effects in aquatic organisms. Further, chloride levels are increasing in the Humber as they are elsewhere in the jurisdiction. Black Creek has the highest levels of chloride and the West Humber and Rainbow Creek will suffer the most rapid increases in the future, due to new development planned in these areas. Chlorine, which is used in all swimming pools as a cleaning agent, is typically derived from sodium chloride (salt). In the case of the new salt pool, an electrolyzing process turns the chloride into chlorine, which then outlets into the pool as chlorine. Salt pools contain a chloride level at approximately 3500 parts per million /ppm. In non -salt pools, or regular swimming pools, these concentrations are significantly lower, at approximately 1000 ppm. However, this does not mean that regular pools are more environmentally friendly than salt pools, as regular pools require a 'shocking process' to be conducted semi - monthly in order to eradicate micro- organisms, such as bacteria, viruses or algae, which then dramatically increases the levels of chlorine to approximately 5000 /ppm. Hence, salt pools or regular pools likely have similar effects on our rivers as both disinfectant methods result in higher levels of residual chloride being discharged to receiving waters. It is suspected that chloride levels increase in watersheds at the end of the swimming season, when pools are drained, sometimes directly into streams or into street sewer openings, which most often outlet into streams and watercourses. Some of the chlorine in pool water converts back to chloride (when discharged into receiving waters) and is present when pool water is drained. This problem could be particularly acute in headwater areas where pools drain to small streams that have low flow (i.e. low dilution capacity) and play host to a variety of sensitive aquatic organisms. However, there is no information available on the cumulative impacts of pools and salt loading into TRCA watersheds. G33 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 October 16, 2007 Regardless of the lack of available data on the cumulative impacts of pools in watersheds, some municipalities in the Humber watershed have taken interest in this issue, namely the City of Toronto, with the introduction of the Toronto Sewer -Use By -Law in 2000 (By -law 457 - 2000). This By -law is designed to protect aquatic environments and to control biosolids quality (among other things). It dovetails with federal and provincial government regulations on quality and quantity of substances of concern discharged into the environment via the municipal sewer systems. The By -law was drafted after consultation with Environment Canada, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE), Canadian Centre for Pollution Prevention (C2P2), and the World Wildlife Fund. It underwent public consultation to obtain input from industry, industry associations, environmental groups and other stakeholders. In association with the requirements of this By -law, the City of Toronto recently sent out registered letters to as many swimming pool service companies as possible that service the greater Toronto area in order to advise them that current by -laws regarding the discharge of pool water into storm sewers will be strictly enforced. This means that pool water can neither be backwashed or drained into the street and must be disposed of via a collection service. The fine for offending pool owners or service companies is $5,000 per occurrence. The city's concern is that quantities of chlorine, bromine, algaecides and salt are being put into the storm sewers and making their way to the lake where environmental damage will occur with fish and wildlife. Industry response recognizes that the environment has become an issue of significant public concern and the swimming pool, and to a lesser extent, the hot tub industry, has a role in advancing the environmental agenda through ensuring best management practices associated with their product delivery. Recent publications in industry papers call for the development of a 'Green Plan' taking into account the issues of energy consumption, pollution and water conservation. Given the expressed concern of Humber Alliance members, TRCA staff has developed contact with a private sector pool industry manufacturer and distributor in order to encourage a partnership with industry and the TRCA Sustainable Technologies program. This initiative, if pursued, will provide the baseline data necessary to determine forward action of managing the environmental constraints of domestic swimming pools, such as the creation of a Green Plan for pools, and will be the first step towards ameliorating potential impacts of pools in watersheds. October 16, 2007 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/07 G34 RES. #G17/07 - Moved by: Seconded by: SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Miriam Mittermaier Bill Wilson THAT the following minutes be received: • Agricultural Subcommittee #1/07 (September 181 • Bolton Resource Mgt Tract Advisory Committee #2/07 (September 11'h) • Claireville Subcommittee #1/07 (September 111 • Heritage Subcommittee #1/07 (September 13'h) CARRIED NEW BUSINESS Charles Sauriol Annual Environmental Dinner Members were encouraged to attend this year's Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner to be held on November 7, 2007 at the Pearson Convention Centre in Brampton. Robert Kennedy Jr., is the keynote speaker. DOOR PRIZE As a token of the Authority's appreciation for the members' participation on the Humber Alliance, a draw was held for a paddle embossed with the Humber logo on it. The winning ticket belonged to Joy Webster who gave the winning ticket to Hugh Mitchell as she cannot accept gifts. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:20 p.m., October 16, 2007. Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer /L.