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HomeMy WebLinkAboutDon Watershed Regeneration Council 2008{ C TORONTO AND REGION 'Y- onserva tion For The Living City theDon MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #1/08 January 24, 2008 Page F1 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #1/08 was held on Thursday January 24, 2008. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member Margaret Buchinger Member Carmela Canzonieri Member Shan Dhingra • Member George Fells Member Kate Hayes Member. Peter Heinz Member Catherine Kurucz Member Vivien Lee. Member Catherine Marsden Member. Margaret McRae Member Doug Obright Member .Janice Palmer Member Lisa Sealock Member .Andy Wickens Member GUESTS John Laraway Guest STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Janet Ivey Project Manager, Don Watershed Plan David Love Executive Director, Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto Amy Thurston Don Watershed Project Manager Michelle Vanderwel Don Watershed Administrative Clerk January 24, 2008 Page F 2 PRESENTATIONS Fundraising Opportunities in the Don David Love, Executive Director, Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto gave a verbal presentation on Fundraising Opportunities in the Don. The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto (CFGT) raises money for projects undertaken by Toronto and Region Conservation. The relationship between TRCA and CFGT is like that between • the Hospital for Sick Children and the Sick Kids Foundation; both organizations receive government funding and the foundations raise funds for additional projects. TRCA•receives less than half of its budgets from governments, with the rest earned through fees or raised by CFGT. All money raised by CFGT from businesses, individuals and foundations is used for projects by TRCA. Government gives 70 cents from every dollar raised by charities. Almost 80% of the other funds raised•by charities (including by•CFGT) is donated by individuals. Until 2005,-CFGT concentrated its fundraising efforts on corporate donations and grants from various foundations, Since that time, CFGT has been working to greatly increase individual contributions. Despite increased awareness of and media attention to environmental issues within the past decade, the percentage of charitable contributions made by Canadians for environmental causes has °stayed constant, at 2 - 3 %. Half of this amount goes towards humane societies and animal welfare organizations, so the potential donorlbase for organizations such as.CFGT is not being sufficiently utilized. In the summer of 2007, CFGT began a new door -to -door campaign in the Don to solicit individual monthly donors. Twenty years ago, organizations such World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace were built on the basis of direct mail; i.e. brochures sent by the thousands (or millions) to households. Today, such campaigns are not successful. However, CFGT had great success with the door -to- •door campaign. Householders were asked to become monthly donors. Beginning the week of January 28, 2008, the campaign will begin again. It will also be held just after Paddle the Don, and will benefit from the media attention that the event garners. During the April /May campaign, donors living in the Don watershed will be invited to dedicate their donations directly to the Don River and the Don watershed. 80% of the donations received go to restoration activities, and a maximum of 20% to administration. Monthly donors giving at least $15 per month will be offered passes to TRCA attractions. Fundraisers for CFGT are paid on an hourly basis. They do not receive commissions. They encourage monthly giving (since it is known that 50% of one -time donors do not repeat their gift), but also accept one - time,donations. The opportunity to give to help the environment right where the donor lives is uncommon and greatly promotes donations. Don' Council members may receive questions from their neighbours regarding canvassers at their - door for this campaign. David Love thanked the DWRC for the opportunity to explain this initiative so that members can be assured that the campaign is legitimate. January 24, 2008 Page F 3 Don Watershed Regeneration Council Comments Comment (K. Hayes) Do potential donors generally recognize TRCA as a governmental agency? Response No. They do know TRCA as the organization that cares for greenspace in the GTA. Comment (M. Buchinger) How do canvassers receive monthly commitments at the door? Response They receive credit card information or a voided cheque at the door but always call the donor the next day to confirm the gift. This confirmation is needed before the donation is considered to be complete. Comment (M. Buchinger) Are security checks done on canvassers? Response They are all bonded and are committed to the cause. They also do not pressure people; if the householder does not wish to give, the canvasser thanks them for their time and leaves. Comment (P.. Goodwin) Are specific areas being targeted? Response Postal codes are used to determine which area to canvass, and the fundraisers know which postal codes are most responsive. Comment (P. Goodwin) Would they concentrate on areas close to the Don River or to greenspace? Response Not as yet, but we could work out a plan to focus there. Comment (P. Goodwin) What are the canvassers suggesting that the donations will go towards? Response Rehabilitation and restoration, greenspace acquisition and education programs. Comment (P. Heinz) Are the canvassers trained to give in -depth information? Response They give very general information, and TRCA contacts given to get further details. The Living City map is provided at the door. Comment (L. Sealock) How.do monthly donors receive updates on how their donations are being spent? Response A newsletter is produced twice per year. There will also bea thank you event for monthly donors; the details have not yet been worked out for the event. Comment (P. Goodwin) What about land acquisition? Response TRCA is the Nature Conservancy Canada (NCC) for the GTA. NCC itself is .interested in acquiring only two areas in the GTA. TRCA is the one agency acquiring land for greenspace on a local scale. Comment (P. Goodwin) Has CFGT had success with corporate donors supplying funds for specific projects? . Response Yes, for example the Sustainable House project at Kortright. TRCA will build two homes there. A competition was held for designs. Home Depot and Royal Bank each contributed over $100,000. Also, Imperial Oil has sponsored a project where inner city kids visit Tommy Thompson Park and learn to use binoculars and get a January 24, 2008 Page F 4 chance to view waterfowl in the wetlands. They also see songbirds up close (in the hand) - this can be a life- changing event for them. Other outreach projects aimed, at youth are supported by Husky Injection Molding and the Weston Foundation. However, the long -term progress for CFGT is seen in building the individual donor base. In the Humber, a telephone poll showed that 30% of respondents would volunteer their time to improve the river conditions if they knew how, and 15% would donate money if they knew that the funds would go to work on the river. 900,000 people live in the Humber watershed, so this is potentially over 100,000 donors! In the Don, 1.15 million people live in the watershed; the potential for donations is. immense. Comment (P. Goodwin) Five years ago, an Ipsos -Reid poll showed that 70% of people polled from the Don watershed said that they would like to be involved with restoring the Don, but they don't know how. • Response TRCA is the biggest environmental organization in the country. Although we are bigger than World Wildlife Fund and NCC, much of the public does not view us as an environmental organization. Comment (K. Hayes) Has any thought been giving to being able to allocate money on a subwatershed basis? Donors could see their, donations at work right in their neighbourhood. Response We could ensure that money is allocated to the upper Don or the lower Don. On a finer scale, it might be more difficult to allocate donations. I agree that people need to see tangible results locally. Comment (G. Fells) What about bequests? Response CFGT certainly accepts bequests but we have not yet started a program to actively seek them. We are currently developing the idea. Response (A. Thurston) Bartley -Smith Greenway was begun from a bequest from the estate of Ann Bartley- Smith. Comment (G. Fells). How are donors recognized? I'm thinking of examples such as the Trans- Canada Trail where donors contributed toward each section of trail. Response The Trans - Canada Trail required millions of dollars to promote. Although money was raised, a large percentage of each dollar was needed for the publicity to make it such a well -known project. Comment (G. Fells) Is leverage mentioned? That is, if a donor gives $100, this .can be used to raise more. Response We would need to carefully consider how to communicate this. Donors may discontinue donations based on leverage after the matching funds have ended. Comment . (C. Marsden) Are donors able to specify that they wish the funds to go toward land acquisition? Response We are able to allocate the funds to general land acquisition, involving land on the Oak Ridges Moraine. However, we could not say that we can use the funds to acquire a specific area. January 24, 2008 Page F 5 Comment (V. Lee) Are canvassers asked why a government organization is soliciting donations? • Response No. TRCA is seen by the public as a local environmental organization. Comment (J. Agg) Are lotteries practical fund - raisers? Response They are not complicated, but they are very inefficient. Each dollar costs 60 to 90 cents to raise. They also involve a'huge risk — the organization needs to buy prizes up front. The potential for a green lottery as .a cooperative project among a number of environmental organizations with environmentally friendly prizes such as hybrid cars and green homes is being discussed. Comment (V. Lee) Can donations be made online? Response Yes. Both one -time and monthly donations may be made, and these can be designated for Don watershed projects. The Don Council thanked David Love for his presentation. David Love requested the opportunity to again meet with the DWRC once the campaign materials are ready, in the spring. MINUTES RES. #F1/08- MINUTES TO MEETING #4/07 Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Margaret Buchinger THAT the minutes of meeting #4/07, held on November 22,'2007, be approved CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING 4.1 Water Quality Index Letter copied to Don Watershed Regeneration Council, to Aaron Todd, Provincial Water Quality Monitoring Network, Ontario Ministry of the Environment from Andrew McCammon, Taylor Massey Project — December 7, 2007 January 24, 2008 Page F 6 4.2 Suggestions to Expand the Use of the New Water Quality Index Letter copied to Don Watershed Regeneration Council, to John Baird, Minister of the Environment, from Andrew McCammon, Taylor Massey Project - December 31, 2007 OUTGOING 4.3 Heroes Behind The Return of The Atlantic Salmon Letter to Victoria Foote, Ontario Nature Magazine, from Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council - January 2, 2008 4.4 Richmond Hill Mill Pond Splash Letter to Mayor David Barrow and Members of Council of the Town of Richmond Hill, from Stephen Cockle, Organizing Committee for Mill Pond Splash, Don Watershed Regeneration Council - January 15, 2008. RES. #F2/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Joe Agg THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.4 be received . CARRIED • INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 York Region Sustainability Strategy: Towards a Sustainable Region Final report, November 2007 Don Council members questioned how the York Region Sustainability Strategy would be used by the municipalities, such as the Town of Richmond Hill. Margaret Buchinger explained that regional strategies such as this one usually translate into town planning policies. Municipalities must conform to these strategies, and adjust their own policies as they are developed. A transportation plan may be more general and could be implemented through budgets. Andy Wickens added that it depends on the.issue, as to whether the municipality has direct control over it. The strategies are developed with the municipalities and they are usually very supportive. Several DWRC members commented that the DWRC wished to encourage and support this initiative. It was agreed that the Policy and Watershed Plan Committee would write a letter of support for the York Region Sustainability Strategy and forward it to the contact'listed in the report. Margaret Buchinger agreed to take the lead on this correspondence. 5.2 Restoration Services Centre Communication from Nick Saccone, Director, Restoration Services, Toronto and Region January 24, 2008 Page F 7 Conservation, to Chair and Members of the Authority Meeting #9107, November 30, 2007 5.3 Release of the 2006/07 Environmental Commissioner of Ontario's Annual Report "Reconciling our Priorities" Press release dated December 4, 2007 Michelle Vanderwel informed DWRC members that hard copies of the report were available at the meeting or upon request from Michelle. 5.4 Environmental Assessments in York Region, Summary Toronto and Region Conservation, Quarterly Update 5.5 Environmental.Assessments in the City of Toronto, Summary • .Toronto• and _Region Conservation, Quarterly Update 5.6 Urban Forestry Update Communication from Nick Saccone, Director, Restoration Services, Toronto and Region Conservation, to Chair and Members of the Authority Meeting #10/07, January 4, 2008 5.7 Town of Richmond Hill Ten Year Capital Infrastructure Program Stormwater Management Facility Prioritization Staff Report to.Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole, from John Nemeth, Manager of Water Resources, January 7, 2008 Phil Goodwin informed DWRC members that the Town of Richmond Hill is using the proceeds from its sale.of Richmond Hill Hydro (PowerStream will now run it as a not - for - profit) to retrofit Pioneer Pond. This is a $4.5 million project. This demonstrates the importance that municipalities are 'placing on taking stormwater ponds off -line to manage stormwater. Janet Ivey mentioned that environmental concerns will be trumped by legal liability issues. Budgets are,never sufficient to do all the work planned,'so areas prone to flooding will receive top priority. Janet Ivey also pointed out.that John Nemeth, the author of this report, sits on the.Technical Advisory Committee for the updated Don watershed plan. 5.8 The Quest for Chowder #9 East Don Parkland Partners flyer for Quest for Chowder Fundraiser, February 23, 2008 Phil Goodwin encouraged DWRC members to contact him by phone•or email if they would like to attend the event. The Quest for Chowder raises a few thousand dollars each year towards the East Don Parkland Partners' planting events. RES. # F3/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by:.. Seconded by: Andy Wickens Shan Dhingra THAT information items 5.1 through 5.8 be received CARRIED January 24, 2008 Page F 8 ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION /ACTION 6.1 Formation of a Joint Watershed Working Committee Amy Thurston explained that this committee will allow the various watershed advisory committees to provide input on common concerns and to pool resources. The Humber Watershed Alliance and the Etobicoke - Mimico Watershed Coalition have both adopted the recommendation to form this joint committee. The City df Toronto's policies on downspout disconnection will be an issue which the joint committee would comment on (once the City provides some requested information). Provincial and federal policies, regional government.strategies and municipal policies crossing watersheds are examples of issues which the joint committee may wish to address..Evening meetings will be held as issues arise, if required. It is expected that much of the discussion may take place by email. This committee will operate under the. general terms of reference of the watershed groups. Suzanne Barrett, Chair of the Etobicoke - Mimico Watershed Coalition, has offered to chair the committee initially. DWRC members may join the committee, but all 'members will be welcome to provide input according to their interests and knowledge. RES. # F4/08- FORMATION OF A JOINT WATERSHED WORKING COMMITTEE Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret McRae Kate Hayes THAT the report on the structure and governance of a joint Watershed Committee be approved; AND FURTHER THAT interested members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council's Policy and Watershed Plan Committee consider participating in the joint Watershed Committee CARRIED DWRC members indicating that they would like to join the committee were: Margaret Buchinger, CarmelaCanzonieri, Andy Wickens, Janice Palmer and Catherine Marsden. An email will be sent to all DWRC members to .invite them to indicate their interest in this committee. 6.2 Format of Outgoing Don Watershed Regeneration Council Correspondence Amy Thurston explained that the recommendations on the format of Don Council letters arose from discussions by the Policy Committee. This discussion relates to Don Council correspondence; the format of the joint watershed committee correspondence will be discussed by that group. Janice Palmer agreed that including recommendations at the beginning of the letter was useful, but suggested that these should be repeated at the closing of the letter, for emphasis and as a summary. PhiLGoodwin agreed that letters should be kept to less than one page when this is January 24, 2008 Page F 9 possible, but that in some cases, the important points will not be communicated in that length of correspondence. RES. # F5/08- FORMATION OF A JOINT WATERSHED WORKING COMMITTEE Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Margaret McRae THAT the format of DWRC outgoing correspondence, as set out in the Item 6.2 but 'repeating recommendations at the end of letters, be approved • CARRIED WATERSHED PLAN ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 Don River Watershed Plan — Nature -based Experiences and Cultural Heritage Workshop Janet Ivey explained that the communication provides a summary of.the November 22,2007 workshop. Since that time, TRCA staff have met with staff from a number of municipalities. Near the end of February, a multi - stakeholder management summit will be held to discuss draft management strategies on nature -based experiences for inclusion on the Don watershed plan. Janet Ivey requested that the DWRC consider appointing representativesto.this summit. The meeting will likely take place during business hours, so volunteers will need to take this into account. RES. # F6 /08- DON COUNCIL MEMBERS TO PARTICIPATE IN MANAGEMENT SUMMIT TO REVIEW DRAFT STRATEGIES.FOR THE NATURE -BASED EXPERIENCES SECTION OF THE DON RIVER WATERSHED PLAN Moved by:. Seconded by: Janice Palmer Kate Hayes • THAT interested Council members will participate in a Management Summit with municipal staff and other stakeholders to review draft management strategies for the Nature -based Experiences section of the Don River Watershed Plan CARRIED Members that identified themselves as interested in participating,in the management summit were Margaret Buchinger, Shan Dhingra, Kate Hayes, Janice Palmer and Andy Wickens, 7.2 Don River Watershed Plan — Terrestrial Natural Heritage, Session #1 Janet Ivey explained that this communication summarizes the workshop held January 16, 2008 at the Policy and Watershed Plan Committee meeting and the feedback received at the workshop. At the second session on the terrestrial natural heritage component of the Don watershed plan, draft recommendations for the watershed plan and suggested sites will be discussed. This session is to take place at the February Policy and Watershed Plan Committee (Editor's Note: this meeting date has been'finalized as February 12, 2008). All DWRC members and guests will be invited to this Policy meeting. January 24, 2008 Page F 10 - 7.3 Don River Watershed Plan — Topics and Timeline Janet Ivey stated that this communication lays out a tentative schedule for the watershed plan development. The decision as to whether the watershed plan topics should go before the Policy and Watershed Plan Committee, before the full Don Council, or to combine these approaches so that some topics go to the Policy Committee and some to the DWRC needs to be made. It was agreed that DWRC members would provide their preferences to Janet Ivey, who would summarize this information and forward it to the DWRC Chairs, for discussion at the Feb. 12 Chairs Teleconference. It was also agreed that all Don Council members and guests would be invited to the Policy and Watershed Plan Committee meetings. RES. # F7/08- DON RIVER WATERSHED PLAN DIVISION OF TOPICS BETWEEN THE POLICY AND WATERSHED PLAN COMMITTEE AND THE FULL DON COUNCIL AND TOPIC DATES Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Kate Hayes . THAT Council members review the proposed schedule for discussion of Watershed Plan topics and provide feedback to TRCA staff by Thursday February 7'h, 2008, regarding division of topics between the Policy and Watershed Plan Committee and the full Council; and FURTHER THAT the Chairs and staff finalize proposed Watershed Plan topic dates and book additional meetings of the Policy and Watershed Plan Committee as needed. .CARRIED Janet Ivey added that the first draft of the technical work is expected to be complete in June or July, 2008. Janet Ivey added that in the spring, ten to twelve technical background reports would be available for review. A sign -up sheet was provided for DWRC members that wish to review any or all of these reports. Adele Freeman noted that Nina -Marie Lister of Ryerson University has resigned from the Don Council. but would still like.to review the technical documents (terrestrial natural heritage report, and possibly others). COMMITTEE REPORTS Community Education and Outreach Committee George Fells reported on the November 8, 2007 meeting of the Education and Outreach Committee. One major initiative that the committee is working on is an effort to develop a list of all January 24, 2008 Page F 11 community groups involved with the Don watershed. Fifty -five group names have been received from the City, and twenty from David Love. The goal is to develop a table with the names and contact information for each group. Other major projects for the committee are Don signage and support of Paddle.the Don and Mill Pond Splash. Regarding signage, George Fells will meet with Councillor Kyle Rae to discuss the issue. Signage can take the form of wayfaring signs, watershed identification signs and interpretive signs. The focus of the committee is on watershed /river identification signs. George Fells will focus his inquiries on what can, be done if the"City is unable to produce and place such signs. Roadway access is needed but since these signs are placed by major road crossings of the Don, access should not be an issue. Adele Freeman clarified that TRCA or the Don Council cannot putthe signs in place, but.can provide funding in order that the City can place the signs. The committee members agreed to discuss the issue further by email prior to George Fells meeting with Councillor Rae, to clarify the signage requests that will be made. The Education and Outreach Committee members present agreed that the next committee meeting would be held February 21, 2008. Policy and Watershed Planning Committee The summary of this committee meeting was provided in the addendum tothe °agenda. No comments were made on these minutes. TORONTO AND AREA REMEDIALACTION PLAN Adele Freeman provided a short update on Toronto RAP issues. None of the Great Lakes projects received the expected federal funding this year. As a result,.only half of the work that was planned was accomplished. At the provincial level, Minister of Environment John Gerretsen has expressed support for the RAP programs, and Rae Horst, the CAO of Credit Valley Conservation, has great support from Peel Region for increased provincial funding for RAP programs. The provincial agenda has begun to focus on the Toronto RAP and other RAPs, but there is no momentum at the federal level. DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY Joe Agg reported on the rally at Queens Park organized by the Richmond Hill Naturalists (RHN) to draw attention to the issue of the David Dunlap Observatory (DDO) lands sale by .University of Toronto (U of T)•. CTV filmed the rally and then provided aerial shots of the DDO lands for their coverage. Catherine Riggall, Vice- President of Business Affairs at U of T, did listen to the rally but declined to speak to participants on behalf of the university. Joe Agg stated that his understanding is that U of T could receive $100 - $200 million for the sale of the DDO lands. U of T has a right of refusal for the sale, but it is not known whether there are any criteria for the sale other than the January 24, 2008 Page F 12 highest bidding price. The rally was successful in generating publicity and awareness. Approximately 150 people attended, including students from one of the Richmond Hill schools. Joe Agg informed the DWRC that every Saturday, the RHN lead an interpretive walk through the DDO lands. The area covers 73 hectares (180 acres) and is home to 16 bird species and white - tailed deer (at.least seven individuals). Janice Palmer questioned whether developers would receive permits if a sale is finalized. Joe Agg stated that the Town is against development. Amy Thurston noted that York Region passed a resolution at its Regional Council meeting that as the regional Forest Conservation by -law applies to 38.5 hectares of the DDO property, York Region would support and assist the Town to protect this portion of the land of the .DDO property from development. A staff report from the Town of Richmond Hill will be released tomorrow (Friday January 25, 2008) and Michelle Vanderwel will send it out to DWRC members once it is available. Joe Agg noted that the Richmond Hill Naturalists would be sending a delegation to the Town Council meeting on Monday to address . this report. Shan Dhingra questioned the lack of mention in media reports on the DDO of the Don watershed or of TRCA. Adele Freeman stated that TRCA has been assisting the Town by providing data on the site. Further,-she stated that the, media contact local groups with the most knowledge of the site; here, that is RHN. Joe Agg informed the DWRC that RHN are looking for someone to identify the tree species on the site;-Adele Freeman stated that TRCA can consider this request. Adele Freeman further clarified that the TRCA board would need to pass a resolution before sending staff to delegate to the Town Council or before making public-statements. However, the Don Council has already sent letters to the Town and to the University of Toronto on DDO and, if members are interested; a delegation may be made before Town Council on Monday. RES. # F8/08- DELEGATION TO THE TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL COUNCIL ON MONDAY JANUARY 28, 2008, ON THE DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY STAFF REPORT Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Shan Dhingra THAT Phil Goodwin, as Chair of the Don Council, make a delegation before the Town of Richmond Hill after consultation with the Executive Committee of the. Don Council, based on the recommendations made in the letter to University of Toronto in October, 2007 CARRIED Phil Goodwin informed the DWRC that the Baker Sugar Bush was a similar case, in which the Don Council was part of a movement,to save the area from development, and it was successful. Adele Freeman added that the developer of that property came to talk to the Don Council, and suggested that University of Toronto could be invited to talk to the Don Council on DDO, or the developer should the property be sold. An invitation will be sent out to all DWRC members to tour the DDO property with Joe Agg on Saturday February 9, 2008. " January 24, 2008 Page F 13 DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT It was requested that an update on the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project (DMNP) be included as a standing item in every DWRC agenda. Adele Freeman stated. that a Community Liaison Committee meeting will be held in February. The date and location have yet to be determined, but CLC members will be emailed as soon as this is.known. The project is progressing well with integrating the MVVA design into the EA. A.preferred alternative is expected to be announced at a Public Forum which will be held at the end of March or the first week of April. The target date for submission of the EA to MOE is December 2008 or January 2009. PADDLE THEDON It was requested that an update on Paddle the Don be included as a standing item in every DWRC agenda leading up to the May 4, 2008 event. Phil Goodwin reported that planning for the event is moving ahead. A presentation was made to Banrock Station, the event's major sponsor, a few weeks ago, and Banrock will be participating in Paddle the Don 2008. ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES . Meeting Dates February 12, 2008 was confirmed as the date of the February Policy and Watershed Planning Committee meeting. April 16, 2008 was confirmed as the date for the April Policy and Watershed Planning Committee meeting. The proposed additional full Don Council meeting, on July 24, 2008, was confirmed to go ahead if necessary. NEW BUSINESS Margaret Buchinger reported on the Toronto Green Community (TGC) initiative on the Canadian • Film Centre site at the old E.P. Taylor property on Bayview, south of York Mills. TGC is looking at the possibility of total stormwater control to avoid erosion. A plan is being developedrto achieve total penetration of stormwater flow. Water from this property drains into Wilket Creek, which has suffered extensive damage during storm events over the last few years. TGC is working with the University of Guelph and the City of Toronto on this initiative. Students at Guelph have developed 16 individual plans for the site. The criterion was 2.5 inch rainfall in 24 hours to be totally absorbed.•AII 16 plans met this.criterion. Four plans will be chosen to be developed to the detailed design stage. Public consultation on these proposals will take place in late April or early May, with the City of Toronto assisting with the consultation. The surrounding community wilI be invited to give their reactions to the proposals, including regrading, plantings, etc. Each proposal is unique. Don Council members will be encouraged to attend these consultation events. This is a major source control project, and once it is closer to completion, a presentation to the Don Council will be made on it. The City is providing some funding but more money will.be needed. The costing January 24, 2008 Page F 14 has not been done yet, as this will be completed for the final alternative only. Margaret Buchinger estimated that the project will require $50,000 - $250,000 in funding. Phil Goodwin pointed out that the site is a Toronto heritage site and that the stormwater management plan fits in with the Don watershed plan development, as well as the plantings helping to meet urban canopy objectives. Janet Ivey stated that she is keeping a running list of all suggested Don concept sites and that she would add the Canadian Film Centre site to it; the watershed plan will prioritize concept sites. It was requested that updates on the Canadian Film Centre site be included as a standing item on the DWRC agenda. Margaret Buchinger will contact Michelle Vanderwel regarding consultation dates and a potential date for a presentation to the DWRC on this project. ON MOTION :the meeting terminated at 9:15 pm. Phil Goodwin Chair /mv Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer 1 onseREGION-1e- ( on For The Living City theDoi' MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #2/08 February 28, 2008 Page F15 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #2/08 was held on Thursday February 28, 2008. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member John Almond Member, Sue Arndt Member Jennifer Bonnell Member Margaret Buchinger Member Shan Dhingra Member George Fells Member Michael Haider Member Moyra Haney Member Peter Heinz Member Catherine Kurucz Member Vivien Lee Member Margaret McRae Member Doug Obright Member Janice Palmer Member Lisa Sealock Member Andy Wickens Member David Yudelman Member GUESTS Sandy Harris Guest John Laraway Guest STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Janet Ivey Project Manager, Don Watershed Plan Dena Lewis Manager, Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Gavin Miller Field Biologist - Flora, Terrestrial Natural Heritage Amy Thurston Don Watershed Project Manager Michelle Vanderwel Don Watershed Administrative Clerk February 28 2008 Page F16 PRESENTATION Terrestrial Natural Heritage and Urban Canopy in the Don River Watershed: Draft Management Strategies and Priority Regeneration Sites Gavin Miller, Field Biologist, TRCA, gave a presentation'on the draft management strategies and priority regeneration sites for terrestrial natural heritage in the Don watershed. The presentation covered key issues and updated draft management objectives, draft management strategies and examples of actions and draft regeneration priority sites. DWRC feedback was solicited on each of these issues. The draft management objectives presented here are more specific than those in Forty Steps to a New Don. They list what the terrestrial natural heritage component of the Don watershed plan should ultimately accomplish. They are: • Protect and expand the extent of, and improve connectivity among, the watershed's forests, meadows and wetlands • Regenerate the health of natural areas, parklands, street trees and backyards to improve their quality, biodiversity and ecological function • Soften the impact of human activities and neighbouring urban land uses in the watershed The draft management strategies lay out "how it is going to get done ". They are: • Secure the target terrestrial natural system and look for additional opportunities for expansion. • Protect existing natural cover through improved policy, enforcement, and communication. • Regenerate and enhance the quality of the natural system by increasing natural cover quantity and improving patch size and shape. • Improve ecological function of the urban landscape by increasing vegetation cover through better urban design and management of private lands. • Mitigate the impact on natural areas of human activities through control of invasive species and promotion of respectful behaviours and attitudes. • Increase ecosystem stewardship and education. The top six draft priority regeneration sites are: Block 27 City of Vaughan, Sunnybrook - Glendon - Wilket Creek, Maple Uplands area, Block 28 City of Vaughan, G. Ross Lord Park and E.T. Seton Park - Thorncliffe. The first two sites are the highest priority. The draft priority regeneration sites map indicated the top priority sites in red. (Editor's note: this map was emailed to all Don Council members shortly after the meeting, along with a brief description of each Site) Block 27 in Vaughan is the last remaining undeveloped site in the Don watershed that is not protected by legislation and has not yet been slated for development. This site is an important greenspace to secure and to link to sites on the Oak Ridges Moraine. The second site determined to be highest priority is the Sunnybrook - Glendon - Wilket Creek area. This is a huge swath of continuous natural area. The TNH strategy targets the valley lands and also includes the surrounding neighbourhoods. The strategy involves reconnection of natural areas currently separated by roads and parking lots. There are areas within this site that are not developed but are currently institutional greenspace and may be subject to future development. February 28 2008 Page F17 The Maple Uplands ANSI near the north end of the watershed is part of the old MNR site in Vaughan, and is a potential connection to the Oak Ridges Moraine. The redevelopment in the area of the West Don Lands and the mouth of the Don is a potential link between the Don River and the waterfront, Tommy Thompson Park and the islands. The draft priority regeneration sites map indicated several additional sites of high priority. The Don Council's feedback on the draft management objectives, the draft management strategies, and the draft priority regeneration sites was solicited. Don Watershed Regeneration Council Comments Note: responses were provided by Janet Ivey, Gavin Miller, Dena Lewis and Adele Freeman (J. Almond) Has there been any success in getting municipalities on board with this target system? An earlier version of a regional target system was used in Toronto and York management strategies. The City of Toronto has a natural heritage system target system in the new official plan. TRCA worked with them and they also did additional work. This plan is still in the process of approval. We are also working in this capacity on official plan updates with York, Vaughan and Markham. (J. Agg) Although buckthorn is not native, it does supply winter food for deer. The Town of Richmond Hill has a plan to encourage homeowners to plant native trees. Also, shrubs can be planted for those that want to naturalize and don't have room for trees. (G. Fells) How will you ensure an even greater success than what we had 14 years ago with Forty Steps? We have learned a lot during that time. We have produced the Terrestrial Natural Heritage Strategy based on what we learned. In the 1980's, the strategy was to protect rare species; however it was discovered that a systems approach is necessary. The urban matrix is an important influence. Municipalities are also now taking this approach. There is a new focus on private landowner stewardship, urban canopy, naturalized yards, etc. (P. Goodwin) How do riparian plantings fit in here? We carry forward these recommendations under the aquatic systems section of the watershed plan rather than the terrestrial, and will be discussing this with the DWRC at a future meeting. Riparian habitat is very important for fish and water quality. There is a great difference between the substances draining to the river in an agricultural setting versus an urban one, so the matrix is a key factor. (J. Almond) We need to target table lands in addition to valley lands. Agreed. We have, in the past, selected against table land species and for riparian, since policy was to protect the river valleys from development and focus on development in all other areas. Input from Kate Hayes was read by Adele Freeman. Kate Hayes sent her comments by email and was unable to attend tonight's meeting. February 28 2008 Page F18 1) Microcorridors - making the links between peoples' gardens and valley and stream restoration /natural heritage macrocorridors /connectivity. Natural heritage features and functions do not occur at any one spatial or temporal scale, so why we would think that effective recovery might occur at anything but a scale that reflects reality. Better (re)engagement of people with nature and their role in both protecting and stewarding it necessitates making them aware of how they can directly contribute. We need to move beyond actions that are vague and disconnected (3Rs, etc) and move to direct links through naturalization of gardens - links to benefiting microfauna (soil biota, invertebrates, etc) and how this in turn contributes to better health at the regional scale. (2) Pollinators - David Suzuki Foundation is very near releasing two primers - one on pollinators and one on native plants to benefit the former - both with focus on Toronto. People need to better understand that these creatures (including bats and birds) play such an important role but we need to better message that it is not just conservation for its own sake - we and our children have a vested interest in it and the time for 'fluff statements' is over - some constructive scare tactics about how serious the situation is are needed. (3) Soils -we need to start pushing the message that below - ground biodiversity is as important as above - ground. This gets little to no attention in the mainstream and it is key and a major issue. Associated with this is the impact that certain invasives such as earthworms have on soil dynamics and fungi and the understory regeneration. (4) Messaging - I don't honestly believe that the average Torontonian has any idea of what goes on in the valley and stream corridors and /or the connection to health, etc. I think that we get a skewed sense when we surround ourselves with the 'converted' - let's get out to the unconverted. How many outreach initiatives are targeting bike shops /mountain biking groups? How about engaging pet shops to reach out to dog walkers? Do we even know who reads the watershed reports - what would motivate and interest the unconverted? (5) There is a trend with children's birthday parties to move away from gifts to people requesting 'donations to a charity in lieu of gifts' - what a great opportunity for the Conservation Foundation to step up to the plate and get some great messages across by sending a gift to the child in . question (pass to conservation areas, primer on pollinators, 'plant a tree /forest /pollinator park' to commemorate a birthday) and to get donations towards restoration work. We are trying to build a robust system that has some ability to make its own adaptations. We need to make sure that climate change is highlighted in the strategy, because due to climate change we have a transition. Novel ecosystems could emerge. Loss of soil microrganisms could be the greatest loss that few have paid attention to. For example, the soils in one system may be decades away from supporting trees that are to be cut- how can we then regenerate them there? (P. Goodwin) The East Don Parkland /Finch Swamp is not shown on the priority sites map, yet it contains old growth forest. For many areas, we used GIS tools to determine forest age. This area did not show as mature forest using this method. This is exactly why we are going to groups such as the Don Council, whose members know what vegetation is on the ground. We want to hear about areas that we February 28 2008 Page F19 have not circled on the map - please feel free to circle areas that you feel should be included as priority sites on the map available at tonight's meeting. (Editor's note: the list of priority sites and a map was distributed by email to all DWRC members with instructions to contact Janet Ivey regarding additional sites). It was noted that during the upcoming public consultation for the watershed plan, this type of exercise, where public feedback is solicited both on the suggested sites and on sites that do not appear on the map, is needed. (M. Buchinger) Does the Sunnybrook site include the Canadian Film Institute site north of Lawrence? Not as yet, since Lawrence does create somewhat of a barrier, but we could include it and look at connectivity options. (G. Fells) How do we get all interested groups together to gather all necessary data? We will be holding public consultation soon. We present a basic slate of concepts, as we did here, and get feedback from you. The Don Council's comments are used to refine the concepts before we repeat this with the general public and get their input. (P. Goodwin) The watershed plan is a great initiative, but what stewardship groups need most are examples of what they can do to meet its objectives. Action plans, on a scale small enough that one group can tackle them, are needed so that these groups aren't expected to interpret the plans themselves. Agreed. We also need to identify priorities regarding where money should be spent first. Not to say a community group can't make a difference working in a local, lower- priority area- they can. But some groups can do even more if partnered with a local municipality. Also, new groups arise and they want to know where to start working, and the watershed plan can be a guide. We need to also have a focus group on terrestrial natural heritage with groups that are actively involved (e.g. East Don Parklands, Sherwood Park Advisory Committee, Taylor Massey Project, etc.) . We need the support of groups like the DWRC and the community groups that you represent to save the potential of sites such as Block 27. MINUTES RES. #F9/08- MINUTES TO MEETING #1/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret McRae Margaret Buchinger THAT the minutes of meeting #1/08, held on January 24, 2008, be approved CARRIED February 28 2008 Page F20 DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING 4.1 David Dunlap Observatory Property Letter copied to Don Watershed Regeneration Council, to Mayor David Barrow, Town of Richmond Hill, from Walter Watt - January 30, 2008. 4.2 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Document, January 2008 . Letter copied to Don Watershed Regeneration Council, to Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program Consultation, from Suzanne Barrett, Chair, Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition - February 13, 2008 4.3 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Document, January 2008 Letter copied to Don Watershed Regeneration Council, to Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program Consultation, from lain Craig, Chair, Humber Watershed Alliance - February 13, 2008 4.4 Proposed Environmental Reporting and Disclosure for Toronto Letter copied to Don Watershed Regeneration Council, to Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program Consultation, from Andrew McCammon, Taylor Massey Project - February 13, 2008 4.5 Feedback on the Proposed City of Toronto Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program Email from Rich Whate, Health Promotion Consultant, Toronto Public Health - February 13, 2008 OUTGOING 4.6 Proposed City of Toronto Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program Letter to Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program Consultation, from Margaret Buchinger, Chair, Policy and Watershed Planning Committee, Don Watershed Regeneration Council - February 12, 2008 Shan Dhingra raised concerns about this letter. The letter was to be discussed at the Watershed Plan and Policy Committee meeting in January, but that meeting was cancelled due to weather. The letter was approved as per Don Council policy and sent according to deadlines from the City. Shan Dhingra noted that, in his opinion, such an initiative should be handled by the Province. After some discussion of the issue, it was decided that the Watershed Plan and Policy Committee should discuss the issue and determine whether to send a letter to the province supporting the City's initiative and suggesting that the province consider a similar program. February 28 2008 Page F21 RES. #F10/08- Moved by: Seconded by: WATERSHED PLAN AND POLICY TEAM TO DISCUSS THE ISSUE OF THE CITY OF TORONTO'S PROPOSED ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING AND DISCLOSURE PROGRAM AND SUPPORT FOR THE PROVINCE TO INITIATE A SIMILAR PROGRAM Peter Heinz George Fells THAT the Watershed Plan and Policy Team discuss and consider drafting a letter to the Province of Ontario supporting the City of Toronto's Proposed Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program and suggesting that the province initiate a similar program CARRIED RES. #F11/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Peter Heinz THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.6 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 David Dunlap Observatory - Cultural Heritage Landscape Designation Town of Richmond Hill Town Council Meeting Minutes, January 28, 2008 (excerpt) 5.2 Lake Ontario Management Plan and Collaborative Near Shore Studies Communication from Adele Freeman, Director, Watershed Management, Toronto and Region Conservation, to Chair and Members of the Watershed Management Advisory Board Meeting #5/07, February 8, 2008 5.3 Canada Goose Management Program 2006/2007 Communication from Nick Saccone, Director, Restoration Services, Toronto and Region Conservation, to Chair and Members of the Watershed Management Advisory Board Meeting #5/07, February 8, 2008 5.4 West Nile Surveillance Program for 2007 Communication from Deborah Martin- Downs, Director, Ecology, Toronto and Region Conservation, to Chair and Members of the Watershed Management Advisory Board Meeting #5107, February 8, 2008 5.5 Dog - Strangling Vine: Review of Distribution, Ecology and Control Communication from Deborah Martin- Downs, Director, Ecology, Toronto and Region Conservation, to Chair and Members of the Watershed Management Advisory Board Meeting #5/07, February 8, 2008 February 28 2008 Page F22 Michelle Vanderwel will contact all Don Council members when the full report becomes available on the Rouge Park website. 5.6 David Dunlap Observatory - Cultural Landscape Designation Town of Richmond Hill staff report, February 11, 2008 5.7 Evergreen Foundation Urban Planting Program 5.8 Waterfront Toronto Infrastructure Projects Article, February 13, 2008 5.9 Influents, Winter 2007 Article on Stormwater and Source Water Protection, February 14, 2008 5.10 TTC - TWRC West Don Lands Environmental Assessment Notice of Completion of Environmental Study Report Notice of Completion, February 15, 2008 5.11 The 9th Annual Stewardship Forum Forum invitation (event date March 15, 2008) 5.12 Invitation to Participate, Public Consultation Meeting on Ontario's Drinking Water Quality Standard for Tritium Meeting invitation (event date March 26 and 27, 2008) 5.13 Mountain Biking and Trails Strategy Notice, Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation, February 19, 2008 Janice Palmer noted that the City requested feedback on the issue of biking trails but there was little publicity regarding the request. Unsanctioned trails and jumps in a given area should be noted, with specifics on their location plus any noted damage. TRCA staff noted that despite a request to receive notices such as these, they had not been informed of this request or its deadline. Sue Arndt noted that although the City of Toronto issued this request, they would like to know about all trails and jumps in the GTA. Evergreen was formulating a response. It was requested that the Don Council be copied on this response. It was noted that some bikers and their associations were conscientious caretakers of the area in which they biked, while others were not. George Fells urged the DWRC to work with and to help liaise with biking groups such as TORBA, a group that spoke at the last Outreach Committee meeting. It was agreed that Andy Wickens would draft a letter to the City outlining the Don Council's position on the biking trails issue and urging the City to include the DWRC in future consultation. The letter will be sent for review and finalized at the next Outreach Committee meeting on March 13, 2008. February 28 2008 Page F23 RES. #F12/08- Moved by: Seconded by: LETTER TO CITY OF TORONTO ON THE MOUNTAIN BIKING AND TRAILS STRATEGY BE DRAFTED AND FINALIZED THROUGH THE COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND OUTREACH COMMITTEE Janice Palmer Andy Wickens THAT Andy Wickens draft a letter to the City of Toronto, outlining the position of the Don Council on the mountain biking issue, and; THAT the Outreach Team discuss and finalize this letter at their next meeting on March 13, 2008 CARRIED 5.14 2008 NECP Don Planting Sites Notice, NECP, February 24, 2008 Janice Palmer noted that the Natural Environment and Community Program (NECP), an initiative of Toronto's Parks, Forestry and Recreation department, has produced this initial list of 2008 plantings. In 2007, there were over 60 plantings in the Don, many of which were held for specific groups from schools or businesses. The Outreach Committee is discussing having a table at some of the public events as an outreach opportunity. RES. # F13/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Sue Arndt Joe Agg THAT information items 5.1 through 5.14 be received CARRIED WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS 6.1 Don River Watershed Plan - FINAL Topics and Timeline Communication from Janet Ivey, Watershed Planning Project Manager - Don Watershed, Toronto and Region Conservation, to Members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, Meeting #2/08, dated February 12, 2008 This proposed timeline had been discussed at the last Don Council and the last Watershed Plan and Policy Committee meetings, and no hew meetings have been added to the proposal since that time. The DWRC agreed to formally adopt this proposed timeline, subject to any revisions necessary based on completion of consultant reports. RES. # F14/08- DON RIVER WATERSHED PLAN - FINAL TOPICS AND TIMELINE Moved by: Vivien Lee February 28 2008 - Page F24 Seconded by: Jennifer Bonnell THAT the proposed schedule for discussion of Watershed Plan topics be adopted CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 York Region Sustainability Strategy Response Letter Margaret Buchinger noted that this letter had been drafted by Catherine Marsden and reviewed and edited by the members of the Policy Committee. Adele Freeman noted that the new Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance is Alan Wells, and his name should replace that of Gord Weeden on the letter. RES. # F15/08- YORK REGION SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY RESPONSE LETTER Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger Peter Heinz THAT the draft letter be finalized and submitted to York Region, subject to the edit noted above for the circulation of copies CARRIED WATERSHED PLAN ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 8.1 Management Summit on Salt Management — Don Watershed Plan, Don Council Volunteers Janet Ivey noted that one of the issues affecting surface water and groundwater quality was road salt. This is easily seen in the large increase seen in chloride levels of water north of Steeles Avenue during the recent period of intensive urbanization of this region. As part of the watershed plan development, a multi - stakeholder management summit on salt management is being held. The tentative date for the summit is Friday April 18, 2008. The summit would take place during the day (i.e. morning through to early afternoon) and the location would likely be either Black Creek Pioneer Village or TRCA's Downsview Park office. Janet Ivey requested that Don Council members interested in representing the DWRC at this summit and available during the day volunteer. Janice Palmer and Margaret Buchinger agreed to represent the Don Council at this summit. COMMITTEE REPORTS Community Education and Outreach Committee February 28 2008 Page F25 George Fells noted that the Outreach Committee had identified the key issues that it would address, and that these are listed in the minutes of their last meeting. All are works in progress. Amy Thurston pointed out that more information on the Oak Ridges Moraine Adventure Relay, mentioned in these'minutes, could be found on a flyer available at tonight's meeting. Stephen Cockle, a member of the Outreach Committee meeting and former DWRC member, was interested in putting together a Don Council team. The relay is 24 hours, with approximately 15 team members participating in running /hiking, cycling and paddling legs. TRCA entered a team in the relay last year and will likely enter one again in 2008. TRCA staff can likely provide back -up for the Don Council to participate in this. The paddling leg is on Rice Lake. Amy Thurston will send a link to the website to all DWRC members. TORONTO AND AREA REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN Lisa Sealock reported that the federal government has finally resolved the issue of funding for the RAP program. $900,000 over three years was approved, with an additional $140,000 also approved. Adele Freeman noted that the usual funding for the RAP program TRCA receives is $150,000 per annum, but this year $50,000 in core funding was added to collect local climate data to help gauge initiatives such as permeable pavement. DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT Moyra Haney reported on the Community Liaison Committee meeting that she attended on February 26 as a representative of the DWRC. Presentations on the Don Mouth EA and the Lower Don Lands Design Competition were made by Waterfront Toronto, the MWA team and Gartner Lee. This provided an overview of the work done over the past year, the alternatives considered and the evaluation of each. A preliminary preferred alternative was presented. The consensus of the committee was that they were comfortable with the approach taken and the preliminary preferred alternative. Michelle Vanderwel noted that on Saturday March 29, a public open house and forum would be held at the St. Lawrence Hall to consult with the public on the EA progress and the preliminary preferred alternative. Following presentations from Waterfront Toronto, the MWA team and Gartner Lee, a science fair type of event would be held with various stations at which the public could learn more, ask questions and discuss the project and related projects in the area one -on- one with the EA team, Waterfront Toronto, MWA, the City, and other experts. Shan Dhingra noted that another meeting was being held at the same time as this Don Council meeting by the City on community development in the Port Lands. Adele Freeman noted that no residential community really exists in the Port Lands now, although there will be a large community in the future. (Editor's note: the presentation of February 28 may be seen at the City's waterfront website at: http: / /www.toronto.ca /planning /pdf /waterfront cipjresentation_28feb08.pdf) February 28 2008 Page F26 DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY Joe Agg reported that the bids for the sale of the DDO lands closed on February 15. The winning bidder is expected to be announced March 15. Adele Freeman noted that the Town of Richmond Hill submitted a bid on a portion of the land. Joe Agg stated that it is not known who else may have bid on the property. There is the cultural heritage designation on the front half of the property, which has yet to go to the Conservation Review Board of Ontario. The date for this review is unknown, but Joe Agg will inform Michelle Vanderwel of the date once he determines when it is scheduled. Margaret Buchinger noted that the consultant's report on the cultural heritage of the property and its designation will not prevent development there. There will be guidelines and controls for development but it can occur. A vision for the site needs to be developed. A discussion followed on what the Don Council's role in the development of a vision for the property could be. It was agreed that the development of the vision would be outside the DWRC's expertise but that the Don Council can recommend such a vision be produced, likely by the Town of Richmond Hill. Adele Freeman noted that the Town is presently working on the People Plan Richmond Hill official plan, and that perhaps a vision of the property could be included in the plan. Even if it is to be a park, there are many different types of parks. Shan Dhingra noted that the astronomer's society has raised $40 - $50,000 towards the promotion of the continued use of the observatory regardless of the university's sale of the property. It was agreed that the Policy Committee would discuss producing a letter of support for the production of a vision for the DDO lands. Also, Town of Richmond Hill staff could be invited to address the Don Council on the People Plan Richmond Hill and DDO issues. PADDLE THE DON Amy Thurston reported on the reception held on February 27. This event was a pre - launch party sponsored by Banrock Station to encourage corporate teams to sign up for the Paddle the Don Corporate Canoe Challenge this year. Two to three additional teams did sign up at the reception. Banrock Station staff spoke on their involvement with Paddle the Don and Bring Back the Don. Don Council members were encouraged to contact any potential corporations that may want to be a part of this year's 15`h annual paddle. Banrock will be sponsoring a landing party at the take -out site again, with wine, a barbeque and massages offered to paddlers. Amy Thurston informed the DWRC that the target date to open registration to the public for Paddle the Don is the third week of March. Phil Goodwin noted that in a near - future DWRC meeting, members would be canvassed to solicit volunteers for the event. Many people are needed to run the paddle smoothly. February 28 2008 Page F27 CANADIAN FILM CENTRE SITE Margaret Buchinger noted that the original plan was to hold a public meeting around the end of April or early May to.present the four student designs for the CFC site. However, the CFC has expressed concerns regarding long -term financing of the project through the implementation stage. Toronto Green Community will meet with CFC to discuss this issue before public consultation. Bill Snodgrass of Toronto Water and his staff will be developing cost estimates for the fourproposals shortly. Margaret Buchinger requested that when the project is further along, the proposals be brought forward to the DWRC at one of the Don Council meetings. UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Phil Goodwin reported that the East Don Parkland Partners had over 70 people attend this year's Quest for Chowder fundraiser and over $3300 was raised for the plantings that EDPP will carry out in 2008. Phil Goodwin thanked the many DWRC members that attended the event. Sue Arndt informed DWRC members that Evergreen is partnering with the David Suzuki Foundation to produce a report on the importance of pollinators and the•threats facing them. This report will be aimed at the public and will include information on planting pollinator- attracting plants and on how to monitor pollinators. Shan Dhingra reported that the Town of Richmond Hill officially adopted the Mill Pond Splash event as a town- sanctioned event. Michelle Vanderwel will send an email with more information on this to all DWRC members. ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:25 pm. Phil Goodwin ' Chair /mv Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer (\ f TORONTO AND REGION The `• onserva t:on For The Living City theDon MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #3/08 March 27, 2008 Page F28 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #3108 was held on Thursday March 27, 2008. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m: PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member Sue Arndt Member Margaret Buchinger Member Shan Dhingra Member George Fells Member Michael Haider Member Moyra Haney Member Kate Hayes Member Peter Heinz Member Catherine Kurucz Member Vivien Lee Member Catherine Marsden Member Margaret McRae Member Doug Obright Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Andy Wickens Member David Yudelman Member GUESTS John Laraway Guest Grainne Ryder Guest STAFF Sameer Dhalla Manager, Water Resources Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Janet Ivey Project Manager, Don Watershed Plan Andrew Taylor Hydrogeologist Amy Thurston Don Watershed Project Manager Michelle Vanderwer Don Watershed Administrative Clerk March 27 2008 Page F29 PRESENTATION Groundwater and Surface Water Current Conditions and Key Management Objectives for the Don River Watershed Plan Sameer Dhalla, Manager, Water Resources, TRCA, gave a presentation on the current conditions of groundwater and surface water in the Don and key management objectives for these water quality and quantity for the Don watershed plan. Sameer's presentation and the Don Council's feedback on the key management objectives are summarized in the agenda for the April 24, 2008 Don Council Meeting #4108. The Don Council thanked Sameer Dhalla for his presentation. MINUTES Janice Palmer submitted an edit to her comments on item 5.14 for the minutes. Shan Dhingra corrected his comments on Item 4.6 RES. #F16/08- MINUTES TO MEETING #3/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Peter Heinz THAT the minutes of meeting #2/08, held on February 28, 2008, be approved, subject to the edits noted above CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING 4.1 David Dunlap Observatory Property Letter to Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council, from John Milloy, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities - February 28, 2008 March 27.2008 Page F30 4.2 2007/2008 Update from the Taylor Massey Project Letter copied to Don Watershed Regeneration Council, to Mayor David Miller, from • Andrew McCammon, Taylor Massey Project - March 12, 20'08 OUTGOING 4.3 York Sustainability Strategy Letter to Ms. Dawn Seetaram, Regional Municipality of York Long Range and Strategic Planning Branch, from Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council - March 11, 2008 4.4 Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation - Mountain Biking and Trail Strategy Letter to Ms. Jennifer Kowalski, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, Strategic Services, City of Toronto, from Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council - March 18, 2008. RES. #F17/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: George Fells Margaret McRae THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.4 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project "Rise of the New Don" Public Presentation Invitation Invitation for event March 29, 2008 5.2 Earth Hour 2008 David Dunlap Observatory Invitation for event March 29, 2008 evening Catherine Kurucz noted that TDSB was holding a "warm -up" to Earth Hour on March 28, during which computers and lights would be turned off for an hour. Andy Wickens explained that the City of Mississauga will also have a symbolic "turn -off". The idea of turning off streetlights and parking lot lighting had been suggested, but it was rejected due to safety issues. 5.3 Ontario Nature - A Fishy Business March 27 2008 Page F31 Response from DWRC printed in Spring 2008 issue 5.4 Don Watershed Regeneration Council Schedule of Presentations Communication from Amy Thurston, Project Manager, Watershed Planning, Toronto and Region Conservation, to Members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, Meeting #2/08, March 27, 2008 Amy Thurston noted that Tracy Patterson is confirmed to speak at the April 24 DWRC meeting, and the other speakers slotted for that date will be moved to another. Michelle Vanderwel will combine the information in this item with future communications on meeting dates. George Fells reminded Outreach Committee members that the April 3 Outreach Committee meeting was cancelled. RES. # F18/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger Joe Agg THAT information items 5.1 through 5.4 be received CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 Proposed City of Toronto Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program - Response to Province Margaret Buchinger explained that the Policy Committee submitted comments on the Proposed City of Toronto Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program to the City in time for the deadline for comments. This did not allow a review by all committee members. Shan Dhingra then expressed concerns that the program should not be an isolated program; it should be expanded to all municipalities across Ontario. Therefore, a letter outlining these concerns should be drafted to send to the province. Shan Dhingra suggested that it is a letter, rather than a response to the province. Shan expressed his concern that the DWRC does not know whether other such programs exist in Ontario. Shan suggested that rather than assuming that the City has developed the best program for environmental reporting for the province, that the letter instead asks the province to consider the City of Toronto's plans in its deliberations discussing a provincial -level program. The DWRC should suggest that they would like to be invited to the table at any such discussions. George Fells suggested removing "Proposed City of Toronto" from the subject line. The Don Council agreed to this change. It was agreed that Shan Dhingra and Margaret Buchinger would March 27 2008 Page F32 work together on edits to the draft letter and that this version would be reviewed by two Don Council Chairs. RES. # F19/08- Moved by: Seconded by: DRAFT LETTER TO THE PROVINCE OF ONTARIO ON THE CITY OF TORONTO'S PROPOSED ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING AND DISCLOSURE PROGRAM Moyra Haney Janice Palmer THAT the drafting letter to the Province of Ontario supporting the City of Toronto's Proposed Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program and suggesting that the province initiate a similar program be supported in principle subject to minor edits; AND FURTHER THAT two of the Don Council Chairs will review the draft letter before finalizing CARRIED WATERSHED PLAN ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 8.1 Don River Watershed Plan - Terrestrial Natural Heritage, Session #2 Janet Ivey explained that Item 8.1 was a summary of the second Terrestrial Natural Heritage session held at the February 28, 2008 DWRC meeting, augmenting the meeting minutes with comments received after the meeting. RES. # F20 /08- SUMMARY, DON RIVER WATERSHED PLAN TERRESTRIAL NATURAL HERITAGE SESSION #2 Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret McRae Sue Arndt THAT the following summary of the second session on Terrestrial Natural Heritage for the watershed plan be received by the Council for information; AND FURTHER THAT the summary help to guide development of the relevant sections of the Don River Watershed Plan. CARRIED 8.2 Management Summit on Cultural Heritage - Don Watershed Plan, Don Council Volunteers Janet Ivey stated that management strategies for the Cultural Heritage section of the Don Watershed Plan were drafted based on the feedback received from the Don Council and other March 27 2008 Page F33 stakeholders. A workshop is to be held on Wednesday April 9, 2008 from 2:00 to 3:30 pm to work with Cultural Heritage staff to further refine these draft strategies. Janet inquired as to whether Don Council members would be interested in attending this workshop. Jennifer Bonnell was not present at tonight's meeting but had previously indicated her interest in attending. Sue Arndt and Janice Palmer indicated that they would like to be sent the invitation. COMMITTEE REPORTS Community Education and Outreach Committee George Fells noted that regarding Item 5, the Committee wants to produce a list of all community groups working on the Don or on issues of relevance to the Don watershed. Amy Thurston added that staff are preparing for a Watershed Plan consultation meeting to be held in June. This meeting would be for community groups, such as those targeted at the 2006 Don Watershed Networking Forum. The DWRC agreed that Monday June 9 from 5:00 - 9:30 pm was the preferred time and date for the meeting. Adele Freeman suggested that DWRC members attend, help to act as advocates, and help to lead discussions. The DWRC members have participated in a number of workshops and received several presentations on the Don Watershed Plan to date and will be able to impart specialized knowledge to groups that do not have this background. Limited advertising will be held for the event; staff will mostly target community groups working in the Don or on general issues affecting the Don. A light dinner will be served. A facilitator will be hired for the meeting. Adele Freeman noted that public consultation on the Watershed Plan is planned for the fall. Although in the preliminary planning stages, Adele suggested that this consultation may take the form of a Don Symposium, in which projects such as the Don Mouth Naturalization EA, the Don Watershed Plan, Toronto's initiatives on the Don such as the CSO project and possibly others are featured. Saturday October 18 or Saturday October 25 was suggested as the potential date. The plans for this consultation will be firmed up over the next one to two months. • TORONTO AND AREA REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN Adele Freeman gave an update on the Toronto RAP 2008 - 2009. A list of the projects will be provided to the watershed councils when approved by the Federal and Provincial governments. Workplans will be developed over the next month based on the federal funding recently approved. It was suggested that the Policy and Watershed Plan committee may wish to examine the Provincial budget and perhaps send a letter on any funding that is there or any projects which are not sufficiently funded. March 27 2008 Page F34 DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT Adele Freeman noted that the March 29 public meeting marks an important step in the EA process. There is a preliminary preferred alternative that will be presented at the meeting. The cost of soil clean -up will dwarf the cost of infrastructure modifications needed to implement the project. There is not enough money in the Waterfront Toronto budget for all stages of implementation. Strong public support for the project will be needed for Waterfront Toronto to secure sufficient funding from the various levels of government. Studies by Waterfront Toronto have shown that the DMNP Project will revitalize the area to the point where the project will pay for itself over time. Also, a one -day workshop will be held Saturday May 24 on the Don Narrows. A site walk with an eye toward identifying naturalization opportunities within the channel will be held. DWRC members were encouraged to attend both the March 29 meeting and the May 24 workshop. DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY Margaret Buchinger questioned whether it had ever been suggested that the money raised by University of Toronto by the sale of these lands and which is to be used -for a new endowment for astronomical research be stipulated to be used at the DDO site. Joe Agg stated that he did not know of such a suggestion having been raised. Phil Goodwin noted that at a recent talk, astronomer Peter Broughton had described research conducted by University of Toronto astronomers using a remotely operated telescope situated in Chile. Researchers are not actually located at the telescope in order to use it. Joe Agg confirmed that this is the case; however, many researchers share the Chile scope and U of T astronomers have limited access to it. Joe Agg noted that the Elvis Stojko arena is situated on the southern edge of the U of T land. The Town is now trying to save the arena. The Town has the authority to expropriate the land but no decision has been made on whether to do so. Richmond Hill did proffer a bid for the DDO. property but it was not the winning bid. There is a long -term lease for the arena but this expires in a few years. If the land has been purchased by a developer, some area will need to be donated as parkland but this will be a small percentage of the property. The Heritage recommendation was based on the consultants report and the final recommendation was for less than half of the property to be designated as Heritage. The Conservation Review Board has not yet held its meeting to review this recommendation. The Richmond Hill Naturalists have a budget in place to be used for legal fees at any reviews or OMB hearings. March 27 2008 Page F35 George Fells noted that OMB hearings do not require a lawyer. Joe Agg stated that RHN feels that legal representation would be recommended and they have hired the lawyers. Phil Goodwin stated that the Royal Astronomical Society have developed a visionary plan. Phil had been invited to hear it as had Joe Agg. Although Phil asked that TRCA staff be kept informed of this, Amy and Adele had not received notice of it. Planning staff at TRCA were likely notified. It was noted that $5 - $6 million in maintenance costs for the buildings has been deferred, and any new owner /manager would need to pay these costs for their repair. Joe Agg requested that staff look into the canvassers going door -to -door for the Conservation Foundation. It has been reported that these canvassers are using the DDO issue as a basis for fundraising in this area. (Editor's Note: it was determined that the canvassers are not requesting funds for preserving the DDO lands. They had been asked by residents what the TRCA's position is on the issue and, after checking with staff, are providing that information.) PADDLE THE DON Phil Goodwin reported that the Individual Paddle is fully booked and a waiting list has been started. Amy Thurston added that the event has been extended for one hour, so that more space than ever before is available for individual paddlers. The Corporate Challenge is still looking for teams to participate; so far, seven teams have signed up. Last year a total of 17 teams took part. and staff expect to exceed that total in 2008. DWRC members were encouraged to approach companies that may be interested in participating in the Corporate Challenge. Information packages were available at tonight's meeting. Corporations may also be challenged through the PTD website. It was requested that DWRC members coordinate with Amy Thurston before approaching companies to avoid duplication. Paddle the Don requires many volunteers to run the day. A sign -up sheet was available at tonight's meeting and all DWRC members available to help for at least part of Sunday May 4 were requested to sign up. Volunteers are needed at the launch site at E.T. Seton Park and for the Landing Party at the Don mouth. The Landing Party will have displays on the Don Mouth EA, Waterfront Toronto's projects, the Don Fisheries Management Plan, the City's Wet Weather Flow and CSO projects, and the Toronto Waterfront Aquatic Habitat Restoration project. It is hoped that some of the Don Council trail guides will also be ready for and available at the event. Michael Haider questioned whether corporations could donate prizes instead of taking part in the paddle. Amy Thurston stated that this definitely was of potential interest and that any Don Council members that may know of such opportunities speak with her before approaching a company. CANADIAN FILM CENTRE SITE March 27 2008 Page F36 Margaret Buchinger updated the Don Council on the CFC Site Project. Toronto Green Community met with CFC recently and it was determined that public consultation on the project will take a two - pronged approach. First, landowners on the south side of the property will be consulted. These properties (approximately six) were sold off.from the E.P. Taylor land but landowners were given veto power on any developments on the CFC property. The second phase of the consultation will be with the general public. UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Moyra Haney reported that the Toronto Harbour Liaison received a presentation on "GEESE - Free", a new product available at marinas and hardware stores that repels mosquitoes and Canada geese and is made from natural garlic oil. For more information, visit their website at http: / /alexmilne.com /geese.html. Moyra Haney also stated that the Toronto Stewardship Forum recently held at Toronto Botanical Garden was an excellent event and a valuable experience. Michelle Vanderwel requested that DWRC members sign up on the sign -up sheets available at tonight's meeting to assist with the Town of Richmond Hill Mill Pond Splash, to be held Sunday June 1, 2008. Volunteers are needed between 9 am to 6 pm. DWRC members may help by offering their time for the whole day or for a few hours: OTHER BUSINESS Adele Freeman informed DWRC members that Vaughan City Council recently approved a grant of $320,000 for trail work for the Bartley -Smith Greenway. Completion of trails in this area is an ongoing project. Shan Dhingra requested that TRCA brochures and information materials be brought to future DWRC meetings. Adele Freeman noted that much of this material is also available on the TRCA website. The website is in the process of going through a major overhaul to make it more user - friendly. DWRC members are encouraged to contact TRCA staff with suggestions for improvements to the site. ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:15 pm. Phil Goodwin Chair /mv Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer ( TORONTO AND R5G1ON'y, onserva t:on for The Living City theDoir MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #4/08 April 24, 2008 Page F37 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #4108 was held on Thursday April 24, 2008. Peter Heinz, Co- Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Peter Heinz Co -Chair Margaret Buchinger Member Shan Dhingra Member George Fells Member Michael Haider Member Moyra Haney Member Kate Hayes Member Catherine Kurucz Member Margaret McRae Member Doug Obright Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Lisa Sealock Member Andy Wickens Member David Yudelman Member GUESTS Stephen Cockle Guest John Laraway Guest STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Bev Thorpe Project Manager, CTC Region Amy Thurston Don Watershed Project Manager Michelle Vanderwel Don Watershed Administrative Clerk April 24 2008 Page F 38 PRESENTATION Sustainable Practices in the Residential Sector: Market Constraints and Opportunities Tracy Patterson, Freeman Associates, gave a presentation on market constraints to sustainable practices based on homeowners' inherent beliefs and values. The presentation is available to DWRC members who request a copy. The general findings were that landscapes were an important part of how people viewed their personal environment. Naturalized landscapes were seen by large percentage of the respondents as disorganized, drab and very unlike their idealized landscapes. However, when these respondents saw pictures of naturalized areas they often changed their opinion and were far more likely to consider naturalizing their own yards. An advertising campaign based on photos and a slogan such as "Beautiful...naturally" was suggested. Don Council Comments How were those surveyed recruited? Was the recruiting done by phone? Yes, participants were recruited by phone. They were told that the study would be on landscaping and were asked demographics questions to be certain that they qualified for the survey. Were participants given a definition in advance of the term "naturalized "? No, the initial responses regarding naturalized yards were based on their intrinsic beliefs. The conclusion on the need for visual marketing is spot -on and in agreement with studies done earlier by FODE. However, the conclusion that websites and other targeted marketing aimed at community groups should not happen should be reconsidered. These groups are allies, and can act to help deliver the message to the community. There is no question that community groups help to deliver the message, but resources are limited and this study and others we have done indicate that the message from these groups tends to hit the same audience rather than a new market. We do work with community groups, but to make sure that their work is effective, barriers to perception need to be addressed first. Has any research been done into why there are localized areas where there are a high percentage of naturalized gardens, such as those near Sherwood Park? We have not researched that area. Is that a high income level area? Yes. We would have to survey the residents' perceptions. Some of these residents began to naturalize their gardens 15 years ago. They felt that this helped to provide a suitable entrance to Sherwood Park. Neighbours then followed suit after seeing how beautiful these gardens were. Sometimes people purchasing property near parks already lean toward a naturalized look as beautiful, this being a reason for their moving there. Did you ask any questions about biodiversity, e.g. birds or pollinating insects? No. Our interest was in sustainable practices. Participants were told that naturalized gardens attracted butterflies, though. April 24 2008 Page F 39 It will be important to have nursery companies on board before launching a naturalization perception ad campaign. Their plant orders are made far in advance. ' I agree, but you may find that the nursery staff will say that the exotics are what their customers ask for. People's perceptions may not be as out of whack as they first seem. There was a program at Withrow Park to naturalize an area. Many residents volunteered to help, but were disappointed with the results. The areas were naturalized but were not beautiful. I would not suggest marketing fully naturalized landscapes to people not yet near that mindset. Begin with partially naturalized yards, using some native plants. These can be beautiful. Municipal policies may need to change regarding what is done in some areas. To be fair, naturalized areas in parks may use woodland species. These are not necessarily beautiful, but are what would have naturally been present in that area: However, parks that receive no maintenance may be seen as "naturalized" to some. They weren't, they were just let go. If you use photos that feature birds and butterflies, these will be appealing. Yes, but we also need to remember that those that preferred a traditional landscape saw their yards as a reflection of themselves. A multiple -image campaign will be needed. There have been successful campaigns. York Region's Water for Tomorrow program received support from local nurseries and garden centres. A demo garden was planted. The program has run for several years. Yes, I helped to design that program. We knew we needed to involve retail chains. Local garden centres agreed to participate only if the "big box" hardware stores 'did also. A horticultural expert from Seneca participated, since we needed this information to come from an expert. We wanted the project to be monitored to learn how many landscapes were actually naturalized, but no monitoring occurred. The clock is ticking, we need to market these ideas like Nike or Coke does - target the appropriate demographic. A good example is the Beaches neighbourhood. There has been tremendous change in that area over the last 10 -15 years, spreading from house to house. Some residents have said that it involves much less effort and money to have a more naturalized landscape. A program in Austin, Texas was begun to reduce water usage among the highest users, which were the wealthiest demographic. Many did lower their usage, and their neighbours began to copy these habits. The situation is the same in Toronto - if you address the perceptual change, habits change. If the largest properties are seen to become naturalized, other neighbourhoods will follow suit. However, further north in the watershed, residents have large yards and often hire landscape companies to mow the lawn. Some feature homes will be needed in these areas. Demo properties should be in high traffic, influential areas. Also, there would be a high impact to demo's offered at garden centres. We need.to educate people on what a watershed is before we talk to them on watershed issues. Richmond Hill's front yard recognition program this year includes a category for yards that are pesticide- and herbicide -free. This is a step in the right direction. April 24 2008 Page F 40 Were responses broken down by cultural group? Cultural background was accounted for in the demographic questions, so that each area had a statistically similar breakdown, except for Markham. This area has a large Asian population and many list Mandarin or Cantonese as their first language. We hired a researcher who spoke both languages. This researcher spoke to community leaders. People will see naturalized areas as important if naturalizing increases their property values. Right now, traditional landscapes are seen as most beautiful by most people. Value will not be added until this perception changes. Once this happens, intrinsic value can outweigh cost issues. People buy BMWs that they cannot afford, to create an image. The Don Council thanked Tracy Patterson for her presentation. Adele Freeman pointed out that this concept of changing perception through marketing relates to the watershed plan. Communication plans are included in the management strategies. MINUTES RES. #F21/08- MINUTES TO MEETING #3/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney George Fells THAT the minutes of meeting #3/08, held on March 27, 2008, be approved, subject to the an edit on page F30 to change "Any" to "Andy" CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING 4.1 Protecting Warden Woods Andrew McCammon stated that this has been a long -term undertaking for Taylor Massey Project. The City of Toronto is presently consulting with key internal staff and will meet with TMP soon to discuss the report. George Fells asked whether the DWRC could assist TMP with this initiative. Andrew McCammon replied five concept sites for the Don Watershed Plan in the Taylor- Massey April 24 2008 Page F 41 subwatershed will be suggested by TMP in their subwatershed plan, including one in Warden Woods. The organization hoped that the Don Council Would consider supporting these proposed sites. Michael Haider asked whether Warden Woods had been identified as a high priority site on the regeneration sites map presented to the DWRC earlier. Janet Ivey was not available to confirm that it was not, but that was the general understanding of those present. RES. #F22/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Michael Haider THAT correspondence item 4.1 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 Protecting Warden Woods: Recommendations to the City of Toronto, the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority, and Community Organizations Operating Near the Park 5.2 The Living City Campus Vision Plan 5.3 Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network 5.4 Canada Green Building Council 5.5 Biogas Market Development 5.6 2007 Flood Forecasting and Warning Program 5.7 City of Toronto Environment Day Program 5.8 City of Toronto Community Stewardship Program It was noted that Sherwood Park and High Park were not included on this flyer. 5.9 Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation Community Planting Events, Spring 2008 5.10 East Don Parkland Partners 2008 Events 5.11 Taylor Massey Project Calendar of 2008 Events 5.12 The Green Living Show 2008 April 24 2008 Page F42 5.13 Gangsters, Dreamers, and Engineers: 200 Years of Drama on the Lower Don River Jane's Walk 5.14 Creating an Urban Estuary at the Mouth of the Don Jane's Walk 5.15 Corktown Jane's Walk 5.16 West Don Lands and the Lower Don River Jane's Walk 5.17 Environmental Assessment Application Review Status for the Don Region Projects 5.18 Environmental Assessment Application Review Status for the Don Projects 5.19 Action Plan for Sustainable Practices - Implementation Strategies Business Sectors in the Greater Toronto Area 5.20 Wild Things with Wings 5.21 Plant Trees with Umbra RES. # F23/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Margaret McRae Watershed, York Watershed, Toronto for the Residential and THAT information items 5.1 through 5.21 be received CARRIED 6. WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS 6.1 Management Summit on Cultural Heritage - Update Janice Palmer updated the DWRC on this summit, held April 9, 2008, in which she participated. Janice felt that there most participants present had specific interests related to a particular site. 6.2 Management Summit on Salt Management - Update Amy Thurston updated the DWRC on this summit held April 18, 2008. A research partnership is being developed with University of Guelph researchers involving recycling of saline run -off as a liquid spray to use on roads. April 24 2008 Page F 43 ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 Richmond Hill Mill Pond Splash Update Stephen Cockle, former DWRC member and Chair of the Organizing Team for Mill Pond Splash, gave a short presentation on the Richmond Hill Mill Pond Splash to be held Sunday June 1, 2008. The DWRC is one of the sponsors of this event. The organizing team includes Stephenand DWRC members Shan Dhingra, Sue Arndt and Tom Waechter with support from Town of Richmond Hill staff and TRCA staff. Stephen highlighted the new aspects of the event (longer duration, more activities and wildlife displays, food and environmentally friendly product vendors), the new webpage for the event and the ability of event attendees to use the York Central Hospital's parking lot without charge on the day of the event. Stephen emphasized that volunteers are still needed on June 1 and that DWRC members were strongly encouraged to assist if possible with this Don Council- sponsored event. Moyra Haney questioned whether there had been outreach to the large local Asian community. Stephen Cockle confirmed that there had been discussions in the past with Councillor Godwin Chan, who had strong ties to that community, and that he would follow up with the Councillor again this year. Posters and flyers are delivered throughout Richmond Hill and the surrounding neighbourhoods, there are ads placed in community newspapers and a large display is being set up at the Richmond Hill Central Library. In recognition of the 10`h anniversary of the event, a cake cutting using a cake with "10`h Anniversary" and perhaps a scanned photo was suggested by Moyra Haney for the dignitaries to include in the official ceremony. WATERSHED PLAN ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 8.1 Don River Watershed Plan - Water Management, Sessions #1 and #2 Janet Ivey was unable to attend tonight's meeting. There were no comments on this item. DWRC members wishing to comment on this item may forward their comments to Amy Thurston, who will ensure that Janet Ivey and Sonya Meek receive them. COMMITTEE REPORTS Policy and Watershed Plan Committee The minutes to the meeting were included in the addendum to tonight's agenda. DWRC members had no comment on the minutes. April 24 2008 Page F 44 TORONTO AND AREA REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN Adele Freeman mentioned that there was an additional piece of work completed by Tracy Patterson but not discussed in tonight's presentation on barriers faced by developers regarding the "going green" when building new buildings or retrofits. The RAP team has supported such initiatives for many years, including promotion of permeable pavement and green roofs and the monitoring such projects through the STEP project. A workshop on stormwater management was held recently and over 200 municipal staff and consultants attended. Shan Dhingra noted that he and Margaret Buchinger attended a meeting recently on green development standards and the Wet Weather Flow Management Master Plan. He noted that a number of developers were accepting of this vision and planned to work toward more sustainable practices. DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT Adele Freeman thanked the large number of DWRC members that attended the March 29 public meeting for the DMNP Project. Attendance by the public was great. A communication on the status of the project and authorization to carry on with the preliminary preferred alternative will be taken to the next TRCA Authority meeting. A parallel process will involve the Master Servicing EA for the roads and other infrastructure for the area that Waterfront Toronto will develop in conjunction with the City and other agencies. The goal for submission of the DMNP EA is still February to March 2009. DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY Adele Freeman reported that Marianne Yake of the Richmond Hill Naturalists had written to TRCA requesting that an archaeological study be carried out at the DDO property and asking whether there were any Areas of Natural and Scientific Interests on the lands. Adele noted that this land is not owned by TRCA, and it is not clear whether the Authority is able to assist in this capacity. Amy Thurston added that there is an update on the DDO property on pages 84 - 85 in tonight's agenda, as part of the Policy and Watershed Plan Committee meeting minutes. This section discusses the Royal Astronomical Society's production of a vision for the DDO lands. April 24 2008 Page F 45 . PADDLE THE DON Amy Thurston noted that the Paddle is fully booked for individual paddlers, with about 180 canoes booked. Twenty corporate teams from 16 companies are signed up. A fourth portage may be necessary this year due to a temporary bridge at Wicksteed Avenue which may be too low to allow safe passage under once taking the higher water levels at the event into account. Participants will be advised before entering the water. A duty list will be forwarded to all event volunteers by Monday. There will be displays at the takeout, including displays from the March 29 event plus others. At the display for the Don Council we plan to include the first three Don trail guides. We are increasing sustainability initiatives with the use of compostable plates and cups. T -shirts for the event are made by "Me to We" and are of organic cotton. The City of Toronto will bring a truck to the take -out for drinking water and we will supply water jugs at the launch; disposable water bottles will not be provided. TRCA will have some printed material available for the Healthy Yards program, plus the Forging a New Deal for the Don report will be available, but we will concentrate on posters to communicate rather than paper flyers and brochures. Sign -up sheets for the Don Mouth newsletter and Don watershed events will be available. CANADIAN FILM CENTRE SITE There were no updates on the project on this site. UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Janice Palmer noted that the Task Force to Bring Back the Don just released their spring newsletter, which is included in tonight's agenda package. Janice also noted that the meeting that Shan Dhingra mentioned earlier on green development was a TFBBD meeting. All DWRC members are invited to attend the next TFBBD meeting on May 21 at Toronto City Hall, Committee Room #4 at 6:30 pm. The topic will be naturalized gardens. The Task Force is soliciting input on the format of presentations on the topic to be given to community groups. Adele Freeman noted that a number of TRCA staff representing several departments attended the recent Green Living Show in Toronto. Andrew McCammon noted that Taylor Massey Project met with a geographer and learned that the ancient Lake Iroquois shoreline met with Taylor- Massey Creek at Warden Woods, so the tributary was in fact a separate river at the time. This presents the opportunity for interpretive signs at Warden Woods. April 24 2008 Page F46 ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:00 pm. Peter Heinz Co -Chair /my Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer r*. TORONTO AND REGION" 1/- 4, onserva tIo for The Living City theDon MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #5/08 May 29, 2008 _ Page F47 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #5108 was held on Thursday May 29, 2008. Margaret Buchinger, Policy and Watershed Planning Committee Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. PRESENT Margaret Buchinger Member, Acting Chair Joe Agg Member Sue Arndt Member Shan Dhingra Member George Fells Member Moyra Haney Member Kate Hayes Member Vivien Lee Member Margaret McRae Member Doug Obright Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Lisa Sealock Member GUESTS John Laraway Guest STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Sonya Meek Manager, Watershed Planning Amy Thurston Don Watershed Project Manager Christine Tu Supervisor, Aquatic Management Michelle Vanderwel Don Watershed Administrative Clerk May 29 2008 Page F48 It was noted that a quorum was not present. Twelve voting members attended the meeting (plus the Acting Chair). Therefore, all resolutions will be confirmed at meeting #6/08, June 26, 2008, before being considered final. PRESENTATION Christine Tu, Supervisor, Aquatic Management, TRCA, gave a presentation on the proposed management strategies for the Don River Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) and how the FMP links with the Don Watershed Plan. It was noted that the FMP is a Ministry of Natural Resources document that TRCA works on in partnership with MNR. As such, the document will be posted on the Environmental Bill of Rights website for a 30 - 90 day public comment period when the full written draft is completed. There is also an aquatic systems section to the Don Watershed Plan. Christine Tu and her staff also oversee this material. There is quite a bit of consistency between the two documents; however, the Watershed Plan deals with drivers of the system and the fisheries management plan does not. Christine's presentation is available upon request to Don Council members. The Don Council thanked Christine Tu for her presentation. Don Council Comments A radio show on CBC radio interviewed sport anglers and they mentioned finding brown trout and salmon in the Don. Thank you, it's good to know that the Don is getting positive media attention. Has there been thought given to applying for funding for this initiative from various levels of government? This is a complex process. The FMP is governed by legislation, some provincial and some federal. There is a push for a coordination committee to focus on bringing the fisheries issues before various levels of government. Also, there are opportunities for the business community to get involved. Taylor Massey Project is glad to see the separation of Taylor- Massey Creek issues in the plan. What we would also like to see is the key issues, how the problems came to be and how they are to be fixed. Thank you for your input. There is no cross - pollination of ideas or inter - jurisdictional visions. York Region is not involved with the Don Mouth and Toronto does not provide input on decisions affecting the headwaters. The coordination committee could look at that. (Adele Freeman) The region and the municipalities have been very involved with the Don Watershed Plan technical advisory committee. Stormwater management is a regional issue and York is increasingly interested in source water protection. Politicians tend to concentrate on local issues and may not see the big picture. How can we change that? May 29 2008 Page F49 (Adele Freeman) Richmond Hill has approved a $9 million retrofit for stormwater ponds in Pioneer Park, and this initiative will mostly affect areas south of Richmond Hill. I do see increased cooperation happening over some issues in the GTA. MNR has a mandate on fisheries and with pressure from anglers, several non - native species are being stocked in Lake Ontario and its rivers with little understanding of the implications of this stocking. Yes, MNR has been stocking non - natives for many decades and will continue to do so. They are becoming more responsible for assessment of this stocking, though. Fish plan objectives included sustainable populations of a number of species. The new plans will ask whether this has been achieved. Logically, if sufficient recruitment exists in the wild, further stocking is not necessary. Also, when stocking was first proposed, red -side dace did not have their current conservation status. Most stocked species are predators. TRCA has been in discussion with MNR regarding these issues. I believe that unless we solve stormwater management issues, we will not see results. In the 1980's, stormwater ponds were seen as an answer but now we realize their limitations. Are there techniques, especially from other parts of the world, that would be beneficial in our area? Our consultant, XCG, is modeling several options with designs that include infiltration around the stormwater ponds. Stormwater ponds do operate as we anticipated, but maintenance is required for them and many have not received that upkeep. Designs can sometimes extend the maintenance period but costs for infrastructure must be included in government budgets. Stormwater ponds have been allocated as capitol projects, so that one -time investments for building them are allotted but budgets do not include funding for their upkeep. There is a movement toward low- impact development in the U.S. They are moving away from stormwater ponds and towards solutions that deal with stormwater on -site, such as permeable pavement. There does not seem to be the same movement here. True. Mostly, in the upper Don, stormwater ponds are already approved for stormwater management. Have there been any studies on the melting piles of collected snow from the roads in the winter? These "mountains" are still melting and presumably leaching into the stormwater sewers. Richmond Hill is studying how the water from collected snow can be treated before entering sewers by using a grease /dirt separator. Chloride treatment is more difficult - the water needs to be evaporated to remove the chlorides. Toronto has moved some of the "'mountains" that were considered more impacting (i.e. very close to watercourses, direct drainage, etc.) to more buffered sites. MINUTES RES. #F24/08- MINUTES TO MEETING #4/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Moyra Haney May 29 2008 - Page F50 THAT the minutes of meeting #4/08, held on April 24, 2008, be approved CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING 4.1 Draft Expansion Criteria for Greenbelt OUTGOING 4.2 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program 4.3 Draft Expansion Criteria, Growing the Greenbelt INCOMING 4.4 Development of a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy 4.5 Don River Fisheries Management Plan RES. #F25/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Joe Agg THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.5 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 Toronto Waterfront Aquatic Habitat Restoration Strategy 5.2 Natural Environment and Stand Alone Projects Implementation 5.3 Meeting the Challenge of Climate Change May 29 2008 Page F51 Margaret Buchinger pointed out that industrial parks can be one of the most space- extensive uses of land, and that the proposal here for an eco- business zone is of interest to the Don Council. As such, would a presentation to the DWRC be possible? Adele Freeman stated that the project would launch in June, and Etobicoke - Mimico watersheds staff could be asked to present this material to the DWRC at a fall meeting. 5.4 Environmental Assessment for the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project 5.5 Ontario Power Authority's Energy Conservation Week, May 25th to May 31st 5.6 Criteria for Expansion of the Greenbelt 5.7 Towards Sustainability in York Region 5.8 Urban Growth Centres in the Greater Golden Horseshoe Adele Freeman noted that the resolution in Item 5.8 was amended at the Authority meeting. The amended resolution reads: THAT the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) commend the Province of Ontario for recognizing and stating that public open spaces such as parks, natural features, natural systems and their linkages are key elements of complete communities envisioned in the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe; THAT TRCA request the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal to amend their draft technical paper titled "Proposed Size and Location of Urban Growth Centres in the Greater Golden Horseshoe" to address the following issues and recommendations: THAT growing use and degradation of natural systems from increased population densities and intensification be mitigated by incorporating appropriate open space elements and natural heritage system enhancements into Urban Growth Centres (UGCs) to achieve net environmental gains; THAT a new guiding principle be added to the UGC technical paper directing that no increase in the level of flood risk due to intensification will be permitted in Special Policy Areas (SPAs) and that existing hazards will be mitigated to the extent possible based on comprehensive studies; THAT the conflict resolution provision from the Places to Grow Act /Growth Plan stating that the policies of the Growth Plan or Provincial Policy Statement that provide more protection to the natural environment or human health prevail, be added as a disclaimer to all UGC maps; THAT TRCA has concerns about the need for comprehensive review and conceptual development around intensification centres related to flood management, natural systems and open space requirements, as well as sustainable design including water, energy and cultural heritage conservation, air quality and waste management; May 29 2008 Page F52 THAT development continue in these areas subject to the need for comprehensive study of these issues and that boundaries be confirmed accordingly; THAT the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal (MPIR) work with municipalities to assist in funding the recommended studies and infrastructure remediation projects to mitigate existing flood hazards and constraints necessary to achieve public safety as intensification of UGCs occurs; THAT this report be sent to the Ontario Growth Secretariat, MPIR, as TRCA's response to the request for comments; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA's member municipalities, Conservation Ontario, conservation authorities within the Greater Golden Horseshoe, and the Ministries of Natural Resources and Municipal Affairs and Housing receive a copy of the report sent to MPIR. 5.9 Don Valley Trail Clean Up Day, Saturday May 31, 2008 5.10 Don Mills Road EA Open Houses, June 10, 17 and 18, 2008 Adele Freeman recommended that the Don Council have a representative attend one of these meetings and report back to the DWRC members at the next full Don Council meeting. Margaret McRae and Shan Dhingra confirmed that they will attend, and Kate Hayes stated that she may be able to attend, also. 5.11 'Natural Toronto' Through the Eyes of the Artist, August 27 - September 14 5.12 David Dunlap Observatory Concept Plan and Business Assumptions A few hard copies of this concept plan were available at tonight's meeting. Members could request additional copies or a CD from Michelle Vanderwel. It was suggested that the concept plan could be discussed by the DWRC once members have had sufficient time to review this plan, which was included in the addendum to tonight's agenda. 5.13 Community Meeting - Markham - Transportation for Today and Tomorrow, June 3 and 5, 2008 RES. # F26/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret McRae George Fells THAT information items 5.1 through 5.13 be received CARRIED May 29 2008 Page F53 WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS 6.1 Don River Watershed Plan — Water Management, Session #3 Amy Thurston explained that a limited number of hard copies of the presentation by XCG, the consultant team conducting the water budget modeling referred to in this report, was available at tonight's meeting. As the presentation is a very large file, DWRC members that wish to receive the presentation should request a CD from Michelle Vanderwel. RES. # F27/08- WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Sue Arndt Doug Obright THAT watershed plan information item 6.1 be received CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 Richmond Hill Mill Pond Splash Update, June 1, 2008 Michelle Vanderwel reminded DWRC members that the Mill Pond Splash would be held this coming Sunday, June 1, and that additional volunteers would be much appreciated. 7.2 Confirmation of Upcoming Meeting Dates Sonya Meek suggested that the topic slated for the June 11 meeting of the Policy and Watershed Planning Committee would best be postponed until the June 26 full DWRC meeting, and that the subwatershed regeneration plans and the candidate concept sites could be rolled into one meeting for June 26. It was agreed that the June 11 2008 meeting of the Policy and Watershed Planning Committee would be cancelled. Regarding the proposed July 24 full DWRC meeting, it was agreed that an email vote would be taken to determine whether members are able to attend on this date. WATERSHED PLAN ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 8.1 Agenda Review, Don Watershed Plan Consultation, June 9, 2008 Adele Freeman explained that the June 9 consultation will take the form of a one -hour Open • House with TRCA and Toronto Water staff and a workshop with table discussions focused on two May 29 2008 Page F54 or three questions. The level of detail will not be what has been seen by the Don Council, as it is not possible to cover that much material in just one meeting. The public will hear a presentation on and discuss the objectives, vision and current conditions. The DWRC has had a number of meetings to date to assimilate this material. The feedback that TRCA wishes to solicit from the public on June 9 is on what they consider to be the main issues in the Don to be and whether people consider that the proposed issues that TRCA has so far suggested as part of the plan are the highest priorities. Don Council members were asked to take part in the June 9 meeting as table facilitators - when discussions take place, DWRC members can provide important background. Although dates have not yet been formalized, the next public meetings for the Don Watershed Plan are anticipated to be scheduled in late September - early October and during the first week of December. COMMITTEE REPORTS Policy and Watershed Plan Committee The minutes to the most recent committee meeting were included in the addendum to tonight's agenda. PADDLE THE DON Amy Thurston thanked the many Don Council members that volunteered at the event. Logistics were made more difficult than in previous years with the need to move the launch site 300 metres downstream. 135 volunteers assisted at the Paddle. There were 170 boats launched at this year's event, which is a few less than last year. Launches were definitely more spread out, due to both the need to portage to the launch site and the extended hours for the event. To date, approximately $35,000 has been raised. Individual contributions were twice that of 2007, and over $10,000 was raised by individuals in 2008. Peter Heinz, DWRC Co- Chair, was the top individual fundraiser. $130 was also raised through the donations for massages. The Jane's Walk that ended at the Take Out was attended by 130 people. Media coverage of the Paddle has been the best of any of the 15 years of the event, including a front page article in the Toronto Star on May 5. Don Council members with comments on the 2008 event or suggestions for 2009 were asked to email their thoughts on this to Amy Thurston. UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS May 29 2008 Page F55 Janice Palmer noted that a previous meeting of Task Force to Bring Back the Don had mentioned the issue of bird - friendly development. Businesses and the public need to be made aware that turning out lights saves migrating birds as well as energy. A guideline booklet is available, if interested DWRC members should contact Janice Palmer. Moyra Haney noted that the Toronto Liaison Council is celebrating the 100`h anniversary of Gibraltar Point on the Toronto Islands in July. Also, June 19 - 22 three tall ships will be at Harbourfront. NEW BUSINESS Adele Freeman gave an update on the status of the Source Protection Committee (SPC). Provincial regulations state that the Source Protection Committees for Credit Valley Conservation, TRCA and Central Lake Ontario Conservation must submit Terms of Reference (ToR) documents by August 22, 2008. Due to the lack of provincial guidelines that detail what must be included in a source water protection plan, an extension to this deadline has been requested. An initial draft ToR will be finalized at the June 9 CTC meeting and posted on the website at http: / /www.ctcswp.ca/ by June 16, 2008 for public comment. After a mandated 21 days, public meetings will begin. There will be approximately six meetings held during July for consultation, including one in Toronto at Metro Hall. DWRC members will receive notice of these meetings. After August 22, there will be a notice for review. (Editor's Note: At the June 9 CTC meeting, committee members recommended revisions to the ToR. The revised ToR will be completed and is anticipated to be available on the CTC website during the week of July 14. The extension of the deadline has been granted. Therefore, seven public meetings will be held during September rather than in July. The ToR documents are now due to be submitted by October 20, 2008.) Should Don Council members have suggestions regarding contacts that may wish to receive notice of these meetings, please forward your suggestions to Michelle Vanderwel, who will forward this information to source water protection staff. ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:00 pm. Margaret Buchinger Acting Chair /mv Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer ('TORONTO AND REGION Y r � onserva tion For The Living City theDon MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6/08 June 26, 2008 Page F56 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #6/08 was held on Thursday June 26, 2008. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member Margaret Buchinger Member Shan Dhingra Member George Fells Member Michael Haider Member Moyra, Haney Member Kate Hayes Member Jack Heath Member Peter Heinz • Member Catherine Kurucz Member Vivien Lee Member Warren May Alternate Doug Obright Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Andrew Wickens Member GUESTS John Laraway Guest Nancy Penny Guest STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Sonya Meek Manager, Watershed Planning Amy Thurston Don Watershed Project Manager Michelle Vanderwel Don Watershed Administrative Clerk June 26 2008 Page F57 PRESENTATION Sonya Meek, Manager, Watershed Planning, TRCA, gave brief presentations on the preliminary subwatershed regeneration plans as a component of the updated Don watershed plan and the selection criteria for concept sites for the plan. .Sonya's presentations are available upon request to Don Council members. It was emphasized that the subwatershed regeneration plans presented at tonight's meeting are preliminary. Consultants have not yet completed the refined water modeling recommendations that will be integrated into these plans. The Don Council thanked Sonya Meek for her presentation. Don Council Comments Please see Info Item 6.1 of the agenda for Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #8/08, September 25, 2008, summarizing the presentation and the feedback received from the Don Council. MINUTES Janice Palmer noted that her comments on a TFBBD meeting related to a previous meeting rather than a future one. Moyra Haney noted that her comments relating to the tall ships being docked at Harbourfront were for the period of June 19 - 22 rather than July. RES. #F28/08- MINUTES TO MEETING #5/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Janice Palmer THAT the minutes of meeting #5/08, held on May 29, 2008, be approved subject to the edits noted above CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. June 26 2008 Page F.58 CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING 4.1 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program 4.2 Watercourse Crossing Signs 4.3 Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Study - Proposed Stormwater Management, Don Valley Parkway 4.4 June 9 Don Watershed Plan Consultation OUTGOING 4.5 Design Guidelines for "Greening" Surface Parking Lots INCOMING 4.6 Don River Watershed Plan Public Meeting RES. #F29/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: George Fells Peter Heinz THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.6 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 David Dunlap Observatory Property: Built Heritage - Interior Features 5.2 Paddle the Don - Event Summary 5.3 Crothers' Woods Trail Building Workshop 5.4 Temporary Trail Closure, Crothers' Woods, June 23 - July 7, 2008 5.5 Mill Pond Splash - Event Summary 5.6 Don Mills Road Class EA Open House June 18, 2008 June 26 2008 Page F59 RES. # F30/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Joe Agg George Fells THAT information items 5.1 through 5.6 be received CARRIED WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS 6.1 Don River Watershed Plan — Don River Fisheries Management Plan & Aquatic Systems Management, Session 2 RES. # F31/08- WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Andy Wickens Doug Obright THAT watershed plan information item 6.1 be received CARRIED COMMITTEE REPORTS Community Outreach and Education Committee The minutes to the most recent committee meeting were included in the addendum to tonight's agenda. Adele Freeman clarified that the newsletter could be distributed to the 1,000 -plus names on TRCA's Don Watershed Strategy contact list, to all Councillors, MPs and MPPs in the Don (as their addresses are considered to be public) and to the H2OInfo newsletter, where it would be distributed to additional contacts. The newsletter will also appear on the TRCA website. Otherwise, due to privacy laws, we are not able to email the newsletter to anyone who has not previously agreed to receive such materials from TRCA. Limited numbers of hard copies can be printed and distributed to locations such as community centres and public libraries. All DWRC members are requested to bring any input on the proposed electronic newsletter for discussion at the July 10 barbecue, or ideas may be sent to Amy Thurston. Peter Heinz reported that over the next few weeks, he and TRCA staff would be meeting with Councillors in Markham and Toronto to discuss watershed signage. George Fells pointed out that it is important to involve the local community in plans for signage once approval of the project is obtained. Deputy Mayor of Markham Jack Heath noted that funding may be available from Markham council for signage in the Don. It was noted that the August 7 Outreach Committee meeting will be cancelled. (Editor's note: subsequently, a notice was sent to DWRC members indicating that the September 11 meeting June 26 2008 Page F 60 would also be cancelled, and the next meeting of this committee would be held Thursday October 2, 2008.) DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT Adele Freeman reported that the MVVA team and their consultants have begun modeling work on how the wetlands proposed for the Don mouth will function. Once this work is at a more advanced stage, Adele will request a presentation for the DWRC. Sediment and debris management will be important issues. The river mouth eventually must deal with all of the sediment washed into the Don from upstream. Waterfront Toronto will be holding a public meeting in the near future to introduce work on its Precinct Plan and Master Servicing Plan for the Lower Don Lands. (Editor's Note: this meeting was held July 23, 2008. DWRC members were informed by email notice in advance of the meeting.) UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Kate Hayes noted that she is working with Tracy Patterson to put together an application for funding for a social marketing pilot project on naturalization in Earl Bales Park. Nancy Penny brought to the attention of Don Council members the handout prepared by Taylor Massey Project on subwatershed regeneration plans and available at tonight's meeting. Phil Goodwin noted that the East Don Parkland Partners assisted with a commemorative plaque marking the location of the Richardson property, the last working farm in the Don. The plaque was erected June 14, 2008. New information signs were also erected in the German Mills Creek area. EDPP has two upcoming plantings. On Thursday September 25, 2008, 400 trees are to be planted along either the Don or German Mills Creek. This event was funded by donations from Outdoor Canada ($1000) and Canadian Living magazines ($1000) and matching funding from East Don Parkland Partners. On Saturday September 27, another 400 trees will be planted along the north side of German Mills Creek. This will be a riparian and meadow planting, and is funded by the city budget. Joe Agg reported that the Richmond Hill Naturalists are preparing a report on the Dunlap Observatory lands. University of Toronto has not, at the present time, announced a buyer for the property. (Editor's note: on July 28, 2008, U of T announced that the property had been purchased by Metrus Development. This announcement and a subsequent Toronto Star article on the sale was included in the August 2008 Email Update sent to all DWRC members) NEW BUSINESS Adele Freeman noted that TRCA operates a video camera on the Don at the Pottery Road weir, and that the live feed from this camera may be seen online at http:/ /68.182.59.69 /view /index.shtml June 26 2008 Page F 61 (if a user ID and password are required, enter "public" for both). Flooding of the Don at this point may be seen in real time using this camera. (Editor's note: the real time camera was removed in the summer of 2008 due to vegetation blocking a clear view of the river. TRCA is relocating it to the Don Valley Brick Works in the near future, to monitor flooding conditions of the parking lot there and the DVP. This project is currently in discussion between the City of Toronto and the TRCA. The date that the camera will be back online at the new location is not currently known.) Amy Thurston informed the DWRC of TRCA's plan to implement a small wetland in the East Don Parkland. The next Don Council agenda will include details on this project. ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:20 pm. Phil Goodwin Chair /my Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer TORONTO AND REGION 'Y `, onserva tion for The Living City theDoW MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL/BBQ #7/08 July 10, 2008 Page F62 DWRC meeting #7/08 was held on July 10, 2008 at Adele Freeman's house, 129 Hanna Road, Toronto. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:40 pm. PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member Sue Arndt Member Margaret Buchinger Member Carmela Canzonieri Member George Fells Member Moyra Haney Member Jack Heath Member Peter Heinz Member Catherine Kurucz Member James McArthur • Member Margaret McRae Member .Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member GUESTS John Laraway Guest Andrew McCammon Guest Nancy Penny Guest Rose Marie Thompson Guest STAFF Sameer Dhalla .Manager, Water Resources Ken Dion Senior Project Manager Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Janet Ivey Watershed Planning Project Manager - Don Watershed Sonya Meek Manager, Watershed Planning Gerri -Lynn O'Connor Chair, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Amy Thurston Don Watershed Project Manager July 10 2008 Page F 63 DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. INFORMATION ITEMS 2.1 Don and Waterfront Trunk Sewers and Combined Sewer Overflow Control Strategy — Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Public Meeting Margaret Buchinger (WWFMMP IAC member), Shan Dhingra and John Routh attended the City of Toronto's WWFMMP Implementation Advisory Committee meeting earlier in the day where the same presentation scheduled for the evening public information meeting was provided. Margaret reported that this was a kick -off meeting. City staff and consultants provided the context on how the EA would be completed and requested feedback on how consultation should be undertaken. Margaret brought copies of the workbook from the meeting for interested members to take. The next public meeting is expected in the fall. RES. # F32/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Janice Palmer THAT information item 2.1 be received CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 3.1 Don Watershed Newsletter Samples of past editions of the On the Don newsletter (1992 - 2003) were provided for members to become familiar with past efforts by staff and the DWRC to produce a watershed - specific newsletter. Examples of other newsletters were also brought for members to review. The following ideas were discussed for the publication of a Don Watershed newsletter: • The name of the newsletter was discussed. Many members thought that the original On the Don name was still appropriate to use, and would not break with tradition. A few members suggested changing the name of this new version. Decisions on this will be made in the fall. July 10 2008 Page F 64 • For the most part, the newsletter will be electronic; however, a print version will be made available for distribution to those who do not have access electronically. Members agreed that we should try to make the most of using the website that we have. • In the past, much of the content and editing was done by staff. DWRC volunteers would be required to help produce this new version - content, fact checking, editing etc. It was also suggested that a journalism student be sought to work on this project. • Some 'members suggested the length of the publication be four pages; however, other members thought the length should be based on content, or even shorter than four pages. • Updates from other groups should be part of the content and would allow contributions to be submitted from a variety of Don - focused organizations. A map with links to other organizations' webpages was suggested. • Real Simple Syndication (RSS) was suggested and would be researched by staff to see if it is a viable option. • A RAP update should be included. • TRCA protocols.and. editorial guidelines should be defined for the purpose of this publication. It was decided that: • DWRC members would send their newsletter ideas (format and content) to Amy Thurston over the summer months; • John Laraway would provide contact names for the Journalism Department at Ryerson University; and • Amy Thurston would report back to the Community Outreach and Education Subcommittee in the fall. WATERSHED PLAN ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 4.1 Feedback on Don Subwatershed Regeneration Plans and Criteria/Suggestions for Candidate Concept Sites Sonya Meek.advised that this meeting was the target deadline for feedback on the draft Don Subwatershed Plan maps, draft concept site criteria, and candidate concept sites; however, feedback is still welcome over the next few weeks for those who would still like to contribute. A list of possible candidate concept sites was provided at the meeting and members were asked to add sites they would like to suggest to the list. The large poster maps were also available at the meeting for members to make any additional comments on the format and details. Specifically, any comments or ideas on how to spatially illustrate activities and recommendations that touch a large area of the maps (such as education, stewardship and program -type activities) would be welcome. July 10 2008 Page F 65 Sonya Meek noted that a long list of candidate sites would be created and background notes and information would be collected and weighed against the final criteria before the final concept sites are selected. The following comments were provided by members at the meeting: • TMP are preparing a subwatershed plan for the Taylor Massy Creek subwatershed. This plan will be submitted for consideration by Labour Day. • Cemeteries and golf courses should be considered for concept sites - this could help them to become Audubon - certified. The next steps for this work include revising the draft regeneration priority maps based on the results from the stormwater modeling initiative and feedback received from the DWRC. ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 7:30 pm. Phil Goodwin Chair /at Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer \TORONTO AND REGION -Y (�k., onserva tron for The Living City theDon MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/08 September 25, 2008 Page F66 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #8/08 was held on Thursday September 25, 2008. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member Margaret Buchinger Member Shan Dhingra Member George Fells Member Peter Heinz Member Catherine Kurucz Member Vivien Lee Member Janice Palmer Member Andrew Wickens Member David Yudelman Member GUESTS Alan Burton Guest Don Cross Guest Andrew McCammon Guest Andrea McDowell Guest STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Janet Ivey Don Watershed Plan Project Manager Amy Thurston Project Manager - Don Watershed Planning Michelle Vanderwel Don /Highland Public Programs Coordinator September 25, 2008 Page F67 PRESENTATION Janet Ivey, Don Watershed Planning Project Manager, TRCA, gave a presentation on the draft Don Watershed Plan. The Don Council thanked Janet Ivey for her presentation. It was agreed that during the Policy and Watershed Planning Committee meeting of October 8, a workshop will be held to discuss the big picture messages presented in the draft Don Watershed Plan. All DWRC members and corresponding guests will be invited to comment on the draft plan, either at the October 8 meeting or by forwarding comments to Janet Ivey. Please see Watershed Plan Info Item 6.1 of the agenda for Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #9/08, October 23, 2008, summarizing the presentation and the feedback received from the Don Council at tonight's meeting and the October 8 workshop. MINUTES RES. #F33/08- MINUTES TO MEETINGS #6/08 and #7/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger Andy Wickens THAT the minutes of meeting #6/08, held on June 26, 2008, and meeting #7/08, held on July 10, 2008, be approved CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING 4.1 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program 4.2 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program 4.3 A Word Can Make a World of Difference September 25, 2008 . Page F68 4.4 York Region's Natural Heritage Strategic Directions Paper 4.5 Wilfert Responds to Purchase of Dunlap Observatory Lands 4.6 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program 4.7 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program OUTGOING 4.8 Proposed Off-Leash Area in Riverdale Park East INCOMING 4.9 Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Program RES. #F34/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Peter Heinz THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.9 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 Regional Watershed Monitoring Program 5.2 Terrestrial Volunteer Monitoring Program Results 5.3 Great Lakes Commission George Fells noted that the recommendation made in the communication by TRCA to federal and provincial governments to establish funds to assist municipalities with measures to remediate wastewater and stormwater infrastructure is an approach that may be useful for suggested concept sites in the Don Watershed Plan. Phil Goodwin noted that some communities have only recently begun to treat their sewage (e.g., Halifax, NS) or do not have any treatment (e.g., Victoria, BC). Don Cross noted that there is a movement at the federal and provincial levels to develop national standards for runoff. Phil Goodwin questioned whether combined sewer overflows were a problem in other communities (in addition to the older sections of Toronto), and Don Cross replied that they exist in several older communities in Ontario, including Windsor and Niagara. September 25, 2008 Page F69 Don Cross also noted that highly polluted stormwater runoff can have a strong negative effect on water quality in addition to sewer overflow. Phil Goodwin noted that a dialogue with elected officials on these issues is needed on a regular basis. Don Cross stated that climate change needs to be considered, and this is both a federal and a provincial issue. Shan Dhingra noted that the Lake Simcoe Act, a protection plan now going into public consultation, began with grassroots effort. Don Cross noted that second reading of this legislation is now in progress. 5.4 Greening Health Care 5.5 East Don Parklands Wetland 5.6 Toronto City Summit Alliance: Implementation of Greening Greater Toronto Initiative 5.7 Don River Watershed Planning Study, Progress Report 5.8 Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy, Status Report 5.10 Creating Ontario's Toxics Reduction Strategy - Discussion Paper Margaret Buchinger noted that the Don Council sent comments on the City's program and that this is an initiative for a province -wide program. It was agreed that the Don Council should send comments on this strategy. Amy Thurston pointed out that staff for the other watershed alliances had been consulted, and there were no plans to comment on this paper. It was agreed that Shan Dhingra would work with Margaret Buchinger to draft these comments. It was noted that the comments are due to MOE by October 11, 2008. 5.11 Green Roof Documentary Premieres for Enthusiastic Audience 5.12 Water Walk and Workshop - Thirsty City: Drinking Water Sources and the Growth of Toronto 5.13 York Region Discussion Paper: Best Practices for New Communities 5.14 Pollution Probe's Vision and Strategy for a New Approach to Water Management in Canada RES. # F35/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Joe Agg George Fells THAT information items 5.1 through 5.14 be received CARRIED September 25, 2008 Page F70 WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS 6.1 Don River Watershed Plan — Preliminary Subwatershed Regeneration Plans & Concept Sites — Selection Criteria and Possible Candidate Sites RES. # F36/08- WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Catherine Kurucz THAT watershed plan information item 6.1 be received CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 Comments on Presentation to the Great Lakes & St. Lawrence Cities Initiative Annual General Meeting, July 17, 2008 Margaret Buchinger drafted the above comments on behalf of the Don Council and supplied additional comments to TRCA staff at tonight's meeting. Amy Thurston pointed out that the Don and Waterfront Trunk Sewers and CSO Control Strategy Municipal Class EA should be specifically named in the letter, and DWRC members agreed. No further additions to the draft letter were suggested, and it was agreed that Phil Goodwin would sign the letter as the DWRC Chair. RES. # F37/08- Moved by: Seconded by: COMMENTS ON PRESENTATION TO THE GREAT LAKES & ST. LAWRENCE CITIES INITIATIVE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, JULY 17, 2008 George Fells Andy Wickens THAT the letter, subject to the amendments noted above, would be signed by Phil Goodwin and sent to Minister Gerretsen CARRIED 7.2 Upcoming Don Council Meeting Topics Amy Thurston noted that the Don Council has been focusing largely on the Watershed Plan in this term, and staff are currently planning meeting topics to the end of 2008. While Janet Ivey will use some of the remaining full council and committee meeting dates for Watershed Plan topics, some meeting slots are open. Therefore, a list of potential meeting topics was provided to DWRC members (in Item 12.1), and further suggestions for topics were solicited. Andy Wickens recommended a presentation on the Emerald Ash Borer. This invasive species threatens ash trees throughout the TRCA jurisdiction and other areas in Ontario. DWRC members September 25, 2008 Page F71 suggested that the issue would be an appropriate topic for the new Don newsletter. TRCA staff took the matter under advisement and will investigate whether Canadian Food Inspection Agency or other agency staff would be available to discuss the issue with the DWRC. Amy Thurston noted that TRCA has a video of the Redside Dace, the endangered species still found in the portions of the Upper West Don. It was agreed that the Don Council would benefit from viewing this video and that TRCA staff would be invited to show the video at the next DWRC meeting for which space exists in the agenda. Topics that DWRC members identified as being of the most interest for upcoming meetings were potential plans for the David Dunlap Observatory and E.P. Taylor (Canadian Film Centre) properties; Jennifer Bonnell's research on the social history of the Don; geomorphology and the 2007 walks of the Don by Ken Dion; updates on projects and trail creation in the East Don including Newtonbrook, Wilket Creek and Charles Sauriol Reserve; and mountain biking. It was noted that IMBA (the International Mountain Biking Association) and the City's Parks department have been working together in Crothers Woods on trail maintenance and building. A site visit to these new trails was suggested. It was agreed that such a visit would best be conducted in the spring when light conditions would allow enough time to see different portions of the site. COMMITTEE REPORTS Policy and Watershed Plan Committee The minutes to the most recent committee meeting were included in the addendum to tonight's agenda. Community Outreach and Education Committee — Update on Watershed Signage Meetings Peter Heinz reported on the August 20 meeting between TRCA staff, Tom Boudreault (City of Toronto) and Deputy Mayor Jack Heath (Town of Markham) on Don watershed signage. Deputy Mayor Heath was very supportive of the signs, envisioned as being posted at major road crossings of the Don. Councillor Janet Davis (City of Toronto) had earlier expressed support of this initiative and will be meeting with TRCA and City staff, as well as Deputy Mayor Heath, on September 30, 2008 to discuss the project. Peter Heinz pointed out that the Don logo now includes the word "watershed" to help bring public awareness to the Don as an area beyond the riverbanks. The Rouge watershed has similar signs and Deputy Mayor Heath was involved with that project, also. The design used in the Rouge has been authorized to be used in the Don. A mock -up of the proposed sign was presented at tonight's meeting and it was well- received by DWRC members. Some suggestions were made regarding use of fonts (the mock -up appeared to contain too many different fonts) and colour of text (some will need to be bolder). The size and shape of the sign will be as presented tonight, although the posted signs will be metal. September 25, 2008 Page F72 George Fells noted that the October 2 meeting of the Outreach Committee would include an important discussion of the Don newsletter. DWRC members were encouraged to attend the meeting or send their newsletter ideas to Amy Thurston. It was suggested that the DWRC should encourage students in journalism or a similar program from George Brown or another university /college to assist TRCA staff with the newsletter. DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT Adele Freeman reported that Waterfront Toronto is proceeding with precinct planning for the lower Donlands, and that work on the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project will continue to coordinate with that planning. (Editor's Note: Waterfront Toronto will hold the next public meeting for the Lower Don Lands Municipal Infrastructure EA and Keating North Precinct Plan on December 10, 2008, from 6:00 — 9:00 pm, at St. Lawrence Hall, 157 King St. East, Toronto). DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY Joe Agg reported that the observatory building is now emptied of all University furniture and equipment and is closed. Metrus Developments, the company that has purchased the property, has expressed interest in addressing the TRCA Board to discuss its plans for the property. The next step is the Conservation Review Board hearing (Editor's note: a pre- hearing has been scheduled for Oct. 15, 2008. This meeting is open only to official parties. The hearing, which has not yet been scheduled, will be open to the public.) . Joe Agg added that the soil on this property will not support hi -rise condos, so this limits the type of building that Metrus can plan to develop. Shan Dhingra added that Metrus has publicly expressed interest in looking at proposals for the property, whether from TRCA or from other organizations. He added that the arena that the Town of Richmond Hill leases on this property will be under that lease for another seven years; however, its fate after that point is unclear. Joe Agg confirmed that the Richmond Hill Naturalists continue to hold weekly walks on the property Saturdays starting at 2 p.m. CANADIAN FILM CENTRE SITE Margaret Buchinger reported that Toronto Green Community is waiting to hear whether the Canadian Film Centre would go ahead with the development of the TGC plan or their own alternate plan. No decision has yet been made. September 25, 2008 - Page F73 UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Janice Palmer brought to the attention of Don Council members the Task Force to Bring Back the Don newsletter that was available at tonight's meeting. In addition to providing an update on TFBBD's activities, the newsletter can provide an example for consideration during planning of the Don Watershed newsletter. Phil Goodwin reported that the East Don Parkland Partners conducted a planting of 400 trees earlier today and will be planting another 400 on Saturday September 27. As detailed in Agenda Item 5.5, TRCA has begun working on the construction of a wetland in the East Don Parkland. Also, February 21, 2009 has been set as the date for the 10th annual Quest for Chowder fundraiser for EDPP. Joe Agg reported on an interesting presentation from Cathy Nesbitt of Cathy's Crawlys given to the Richmond Hill Naturalists. Cathy's Crawlys sells worms and equipment for vermicomposting and Cathy makes presentations to many groups and events on the subject (including annual appearances at Mill Pond Splash). NEW BUSINESS Shan Dhingra reported on his attendance at York Region's long -term planning public meeting on September 24. He stated that he had commented to the York staff that the plan makes no mention of the term "watershed" and that they noted his comment and agreed to look into it. Adele Freeman brought to the attention of DWRC members the Charles Sauriol Dinner, an annual event and fundraiser to raise funds to protect environmentally significant lands and to raise awareness of the importance of conservation. This year the event will be held on Thursday November 6 at LeParc Conference & Banquet Centre in Thornhill. This year's speaker will be Ray Anderson, who is an excellent and interesting speaker who will be discussing green technology issues. Tickets may be purchased at www.trca.on.ca or by mail (request forms were made available at tonight's meeting and will be included in the October 23 DWRC agenda package). Carpooling to the event is encouraged; if DWRC members who will be attending wish to coordinate a carpool, please contact Michelle Vanderwel. ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:10 pm. Phil Goodwin Chair /mv Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer TORONTO AND REGION - �, onserva tion for The Living City theDon MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #9/08 October 23, 2008 Page F74 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #9/08 was held on Thursday October 23, 2008. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member Sue Arndt Member Margaret Buchinger Member George Fells Member Moyra Haney Member Kate Hayes Member Peter Heinz Member Vivien Lee Member Margaret McRae Member Doug Obright Member Janice Palmer Member GUESTS John Laraway Guest Marianne Yake Guest STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division David Lawrie Aquatics System Analyst Amy Thurston Project Manager - Don Watershed Planning Michelle Vanderwel Don /Highland Public Programs Coordinator October 23, 2008 Page F75 PRESENTATION • Redside Dace: An Ontario Threatened Species David Lawrie, Aquatics System Analyst, TRCA, presented a short film and gave a presentation on the Redside Dace and its presence in the Don. The Redside Dace (RSD) holds Threatened status under the Ontario Endangered Species Act. Federally, the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife (COSEWIC) in Canada has recently recommended to the federal government that the status of the species be listed as Endangered. This species is still found in a few areas of the Don and TRCA staff had many questions about its behaviour. The existing records on the species may date back to the 1950s and observations on fish species at that time were usually made with little equipment, from a distance, and with little chance of knowledgeable peer review (fish behaviour in the wild was simply not well- studied). TRCA staff used underwater cameras to study RSD in Markham (Rouge watershed), where waters are clear enough to give good images of the fish during their mating period. The film shown was taken over the course of a period during spring. It was already known that the water temperature must be above a particular threshold (18 °C) for mating to occur. Pregnant RSD females can be seen early in the film, as well as Common Shiners (CS) and Creek Chub (CC). The latter two species are important because RSD are nest parasites. They lay their eggs in the nests that CS and CC build. RSD are believed to be attracted to a hormone produced by CS. Both CS and juvenile CC dig nests, but CC do the majority of the digging. However, the film shows that the RSD follow the CS as they move and pay little attention to the CC. This is notable, since in the Don CC are found in the areas where RSD occur, but CS are not. RSD require clear water. They are visual hunters, tracking insects above the water. The measure of water clarity is the nephelometric turbidity unit (NTU). The water in the video, in the Rouge River, measures 1 NTU and is quite clear. The film was not able to capture images of the eggs, but the behaviour of the fish once the temperature reaches 18° indicates that they began to spawn. The presentation slides showed the area within Patterson Creek that RSD are found within. However, there are only two pools within this area that the fish inhabit, and these two locations are cut off from one another. Each pool is less than 20 metres in length. Both pools are located near Bathurst Street, which is scheduled to be widened. The fish require areas where the water is deeper and slow- moving and there is no tree cover. Because of barriers, if the fish move downstream (and they are known to move up to 4 km), they cannot return to their pool. In the Upper East Don, RSD are found but less is known about their numbers. This habitat is believed to be less suitable than that in Patterson Creek as the area is more heavily forested. There are two stormwater ponds in this area. Both are off -line, but will discharge to the river under storm conditions. This discharge can warm the river greatly during summer months, as well as likely reducing oxygen levels. Both of these factors endanger the habitat of the RSD in this area. October 23, 2008 Page F76 Photos of RSD collected from the Don and the Rouge were presented side -by -side. The Dori RSD are much whiter, which may be an adaptation to the more turgid conditions here or may signal a dietary deficiency, as dietary beta - carotene is required for fish to produce bright red pigmentation. Don RSD are also larger and more slimy than the population from the Rouge. Larger body size sometimes signals stress in fish. Also, they produce slime to eject sediment from their gills, as they do not have another mechanism to do this. The slide of the Don River water, taken in Patterson Creek right beside the road, illustrated the low water quality in this area. The water here is 8 NTUs and is extremely turbid. Conditions in this area are definitely suboptimal for the species and they are no longer found in the other areas that they once inhabited within the Don. Don Council Comments Is there groundwater discharge in the Upper East Don? Yes, there is considerable groundwater in the area. How sensitive are RSD to pollution? They appear to be somewhat tolerant of pollution. They have not yet disappeared from areas where other species have been lost. For instance, Creek Chub are no longer found in these areas. Only five species are found here. Habitat loss is likely the biggest stressor on the Don RSD population. Has the idea of establishing a zoo population of RSD been raised? Yes, I have suggested it but have had no response. If a captive population is kept with the native gene pool, they could be reestablished if the habitat is regenerated. Which fish dig the nests in the Don? Presumably the Creek Chub, as there are no Common Shiners or other nest - digging species found in the Don. Is it only the males that dig nests? No, apparently both sexes do. However, it is very difficult to tell the sexes apart. Which species are their natural predators? Any larger species are potential predators. While a number of large fish species are no longer found in the Don, introduced salmon and trout can prey on RSD. Also, great blue herons likely take many RSD. Are the RSD found in other areas in Ontario? Yes, but the species has been extirpated in a number of Ontario watersheds. They are considered to be at risk across Ontario. In areas where their populations are protected, large decreases in their numbers are being seen. They are an indicator species, in that they tend to be found in discharge areas if these have stable temperatures, clear water and slow- moving pools. Federally, COSEWIC's recommendation of Endangered status for the species is subject to an economic analysis. The Minister can decline to list the species based on this analysis. Are there other species that require deep pools? October 23, 2008 Page F77 Yes, but they may require different types of pools or other aspects of their habitat needs may differ from that of the RSD. Are any RSD found on the Maple MNR lands? No. This habitat is not suitable for them - it is too cold and there are too many dams. The Don Council thanked David Lawrie for his presentation. • Concept Site Selection Update Adele Freeman, Director, Watershed Management and Don Watershed Specialist, TRCA, gave a presentation on several proposed concept sites for the Don Watershed Plan. 1. Enford Road, Richmond Hill (near Elgin Mills/Yonge St.) This industrial - commercial area floods at about the 2 -year storm mark. There are numerous problems, including undersized culverts. This is likely a long -term project rather than a short-term one. Efforts would involve getting plans for the site into the Official Plan for Richmond Hill. 2. Bartley Smith Greenway, Vaughan (near Rutherford Rd and Keele St) A Request for Proposals will be released shortly from Vaughan on the Bartley Smith Greenway. The focus for the concept site development would be on the parts of the Greenway that are incomplete. 3. Lesmill Road, Toronto (east of Leslie St and north of York Mills Rd) Ontario Lottery Group has a building in this area and they approached TRCA as they are interested in doing an energy retrofit for it. A site visit was conducted, and it was noted that OPSEU (Ontario Public Service Employees Union) has a building next door and are known to be pursuing greening targets also. Discussion with the DWRC noted that other large industries are in the area - Kraft Foods and Harlequin Canada were mentioned. Adele Freeman requested that if DWRC members know of other industries in the area that may wish to participate in this project they contact TRCA staff. Preferably, five to eight businesses (or more) should express interest before the area would be included as a concept site. October 23, 2008 Page F78 4. Terraview- Willowfield, Toronto (Victoria Park, south of the 401 and north of Ellesmere) The area of interest is south of the concept site that was completed after being profiled in Forty Steps. Basement flooding mitigation would be a theme to address and the City has recently done a basement flooding study in this area. The Terraview- Willowfield School Community Council has expressed interest in the project. Meetings with City staff from Parks and Toronto Water are being set up to determine their interest in this site. Adele Freeman noted that a great opportunity to pursue here would be treatment of water from the 401 (this would be to the north of the present rehabilitated site). 5. Pottery Rd Snow Dump, Toronto (between Bayview and the DVP, north of Pottery Rd, north of the river) Janice Palmer noted that the Snow Dump is still listed as a dump site, but for emergency use only. It has not been used for three or four years, even though there was a record snowfall during the 2007 - 2008 winter. This area links Crothers Woods with Beechwood wetland. Connections are an important part of the watershed plan. Since no snow has been dumped for a few years, some seeding is being seen. Soils would need to be tested. Janice Palmer stated that she did not think chlorine was an issue but other substances might be. 6. Mud Creek, Toronto (north of Don Valley Brick Works) Adele Freeman stated that while this area is subject to quite a bit of erosion and there is interest in linking the Brick Works with other trail systems, it may not be necessary to include it as a concept site. Evergreen is working to link the Don Valley Brick Works with other trail systems. TRCA can work to support these efforts. 7. Leaside Businesses, Toronto (south of Eglinton Ave. East, between Laird and Brentcliffe) Interest was shown from the Leaside Business Park Association after TRCA staff involved with "Partners in Project Green" spoke at their AGM on October 22, 2008. LBPA members, City of Toronto staff and a Smart Centres representative were present at the meeting. Lincoln Electric executives were present and were very interested in the talk. Tremco is in this area and they have recently become a sponsor for Paddle the Don. Overall, these factors suggest that the Leaside area may be an alternate to the Lesmill area for a concept site focusing on energy retrofitting and water conservation. 8. Cedarvale Ravine, Toronto (Bathurst area, between Eglinton and St. Clair) October 23, 2008 Page F79 This concept site arose from an application to the Community Program for Stormwater Management for lot -level work on four demo yards in the Cedarvale Ravine area (Ward 21). Opportunities to expand the project further within this community would be explored. Don Council Comments (General) • A number of DWRC members commented on the need to make mention in the plan of sites that would not be as well - developed as the main sites but would provide incentive for community groups to pursue such ideas further. • Marg Buchinger specifically mentioned the Canadian Film Centre site as belonging in the above category. • George Fells questioned why projects which did not yet apparently have buy -in from local municipalities should be on the list. Adele Freeman explained that different projects would have different timelines. This plan is intended to be in place for the next 10 - 15 years, so some sites will be able to be begun shortly after the release of the plan and some will be implemented over a longer period of time. • Phil Goodwin noted that he liked the diversity of concept sites shown here. The focus, scope and timelines of each were all different, in addition to the subwatershed. • A specific request, echoed by a number of DWRC members, was made to include a summary of all the concept sites in one part of the watershed plan. This was felt to have been missing from Forty Steps. MINUTES RES. #F38/08- MINUTES TO MEETINGS #8/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Margaret Buchinger THAT the minutes of meeting #8/08, held on September 25, 2008, be approved CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE October 23, 2008 Page F80 INCOMING None OUTGOING 4.1 Presentation to the Great Lakes & St. Lawrence Cities Initiative Annual General Meeting, July 17, 2008 4.2 Don Council Comments — Creating Ontario's Toxics Reduction Strategy RES. #F39/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Joe Agg THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.2 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 Mayor's Tower Renewal 5.2 Don Community Stewardship Project Proposal 2009 This item was discussed under Item 7.1. 5.3 Environmental Assessment Application Review Status for the Don Watershed, York Region Projects 5.4 Environmental Assessment Application Review Status for the Don Watershed, Toronto Projects 5.5 15`h Annual Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner for the Living City, November 6, 2008 DWRC members were encouraged to attend this dinner that raises funds for the Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto's work. It was agreed that the On the Don newsletter, presently anticipated to be released during the first week of November, would not promote the dinner, as its release date is too close to that of the dinner. Instead, the Don Watershed Strategy contact list would be sent a notice of the event during the week of October 27, and the next issue of the newsletter would include a write -up summarizing the evening and the talk by Ray Anderson. 5.6 Yonge Subway Extension — Finch Station to Richmond Hill Centre September 25 Public Consultation Centre #2 October 23, 2008 Page F81 RES. # F40/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Moyra Haney THAT information items 5.1 through 5.6 be received CARRIED WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS 6.1 Draft Don River Watershed Plan - Review of High- Level Messages and Themes RES. # F41/08- WATERSHED PLAN INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Marg McRae Doug Obright THAT watershed plan information item 6.1 be received CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 Don Community Stewardship Project Proposal Peter Heinz explained that this proposal involved publicizing the Don through walks and various events. This projects ties in with the DWRC Walk the Don project. The support letter, once approved by the DWRC, will be submitted tomorrow (October 24, 2008). Janice Palmer added that if funding is received for this project, modifications to it may still be made. Amy Thurston clarified that this project has been in preparation by the TRCA Stewardship staff, in partnership with other TRCA staff and the Don Council, for some time. Peter Heinz added that a number of other groups are supporting this project and have sent their own letters of support. RES. # F42/08- DON COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP PROJECT PROPOSAL SUPPORT LETTER Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Sue Arndt THAT the letter of support would be signed by Phil Goodwin and sent to Lora Clausen, Coordinator, Don - Highland Community Stewardship, TRCA CARRIED October 23, 2008 Page F82 COMMITTEE REPORTS Community Outreach and Education Committee — Update on Watershed Signage Meetings The minutes to the most recent committee meeting were included in the addendum to tonight's agenda. Peter Heinz reported that materials had been ordered for the watershed signage and that locates for signs were being conducted. Designs for Toronto and Markham signs were being finalized and it was expected that the Toronto signs will be in the ground first. George Fells noted that there would be a few runs of the electronic On the Don newsletter before TRCA redesigns its website so that a common template for communications would be available. He noted that the Nahanni River Adventures website at www.nahanni.com had won an award from Yahoo for best website design for small private sector. (For more on the award, see https: / /www.tiayukon.com/ newsletter /industryupdates / ?nid =252). Don Council members were encouraged to visit the Nahanni site and to forward any ideas on the On the Don newsletter to Amy Thurston in advance of the November 13 Outreach Committee meeting. TORONTO AND AREA REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN Adele Freeman reported that a progress report for 2007 will soon be complete. Kelly Montgomery, who had been the RAP coordinator for TRCA, has moved on to other employment and the RAP portfolio was now being handled by Nancy Gaffney (Waterfront Specialist) and the Waterfront staff at TRCA. DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT Adele Freeman informed the DWRC that a public meeting would be held by Waterfront Toronto on December 10, 2008 for the Lower Don. The primary focus of the meeting would be the Master Servicing Plan EA and Precinct Planning for the area. The design team will be there. There will not be much focus on the naturalization of the river at the December meeting but plans are' to hold a meeting in January or February of 2009 for the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project EA. DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY • Marianne Yake addressed the Don Council to update them on the Richmond Hill Naturalists (RHN) campaign for the DDO and provided the following information. The consortium that purchased the property involves Metrus Development and two other organizations. RHN's position is that Metrus does not have a history of protection of such properties. It has been determined that the telescope at the observatory is not operational and a budget of $100,000 would be required to restore it. RHN is working with Ontario Heritage Trust. RHN has received an endowment to work October 23, 2008 Page F83 on this issue. The group allocated funding for an archaeologist to examine the property but were denied permission to do so. There is quite a bit of groundwater on this property. Upwelling conditions are such that underground parking would not be possible and buildings may be subject to sinking unless pumps are run. According to RHN's research, the Town-of Richmond Hill has never considered development on this property and the sewer pipes are undersized for development here. The Conservation Review Board hearing is tentatively set for the end of January 2009, but the date may be rescheduled to earlier in January. The Town wants a heritage designation for 48% of the property, but this designation would not preclude development even in this portion of the property. The position of the RHN is that the property has national significance. The RHN suggests that DWRC members publicize this issue. George Fells asked whether this case could be brought before the OMB. Marianne Yake replied that an OMB case could be expected to cost $800,000 in legal fees and the RHN does not have these funds. Adele Freeman agreed to discuss the water management issues with TRCA Planning staff. Marianne Yake added that a stormwater pond could be added to the property but would fill to capacity shortly after being completed. The Richmond Hill Official Plan has not been updated for 28 years and will not be completed until 2009. CANADIAN FILM CENTRE SITE Margaret Buchinger reported that Toronto Green Community will soon be meeting with Canadian Film Centre and City staff to determine how the TGC plan can go forward. UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Janice Palmer reported on the interpretive signs installed last week in Sherwood Park. Unfortunately, the signs were installed in incorrect locations and will need to be changed. This is expected to occur within the next two weeks. Phil Goodwin reported that Stage 1 of the wetland construction in the East Don Parkland has been completed. The next stage will be plantings which will occur in the spring. Joe Agg reported that Ontario Streams will be conducting a planting of Tower Hill Drive on November 1. October 23, 2008 Page F84 NEW BUSINESS John Laraway reported on a CBC Radio One series on water aired this week. ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:12 pm. Phil Goodwin Chair /mv Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer TORONTO AND REGION Y� *., onserva tion for The Living City theDorr MEETING OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #10/08 November 27, 2008 Page F85 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting #10/08 was held on Thursday November 27, ' 2008. Phil Goodwin, Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. PRESENT Phil Goodwin Chair Joe Agg Member Margaret Buchinger Member George Fells Member Kristin Geater Member Michael Haider Member Moyra Haney Member Peter Heinz Member Margaret McRae Member Doug Obright Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member David Yudelman Member GUESTS Ken Browne Guest Andrew McCammon Guest STAFF 'Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Chandra Sharma Etobicoke Mimico Watershed Specialist Amy Thurston Project Manager - Don Watershed Planning Michelle Vanderwel Don /Highland Public Programs Coordinator November 27, 2008 Page F86 PRESENTATION Don Council members may contact Michelle Vanderwel to receive a copy of any of the evening's presentations. • City of Toronto Wet Weather Flow Management, Current Programs and Outreach Tracy Manolakakis, Policy and Program Advisor and Bill Snodgrass, Senior Engineer (both of Toronto Water) gave a presentation on the City's initiatives on stormwater management and the public consultation for these projects. Tracy Manolakakis gave a quick overview of the City's programs within the Don watershed relating to stormwater management and especially to basement flooding. Discussion followed with a focus on how the DWRC could assist with consultation and outreach efforts to the public for these programs. Combined sewer outfalls (CSOs) are found in the older sections of Toronto (mostly south of Eglinton Avenue). There are 79 such CSOs, with 33 discharging directly to Lake Ontario. The 25- year Wet Weather Flow Master Plan seeks to deal with issues of surface flooding, basement flooding, stream erosion and impacts on infrastructure (e.g. exposed sewers) by managing stormwater on a watershed basis. Source control, conveyance system and end -of -pipe measures are considered. Of the 2004 - 2008 Implementation Projects, three were in the Don: the Don Trunk and Waterfront Interceptor Sewer Systems Study, the Earl Bales Park Stormwater Management Facility and the North Toronto CSO High Rate Treatment Facility retrofit. To deal with both storm sewer and combined sewer outfalls into Lake Ontario, the Don Trunk and Waterfront Interceptor Sewer Systems Study has identified 51 CSOs and 41 storm outfalls. The project's goal is to delist Toronto as a RAP Area of Concern through the clean -up of the Lower Don River and Inner Harbour. An additional project is underway along the Don Valley Parkway to treat storm drainage there. Proposed stormwater management measures will enhance the quality of road runoff from the DVP before draining into the Don River. A public meeting is scheduled for December 9, 2008 to present study recommendations (Editor's note: the invitation to attend this meeting was included in the agenda package for the DWRC meeting). The North Toronto CSO High Rate Treatment Facility is near Crothers Woods. Storage capacity will be greatly increased during construction in 2009. The Earl Bales Park Stormwater Pond will manage stormwater runoff in the Earl Bales Park drainage area and reduce the erosion of streams in the ravines of Earl Bales Park. The EA Study was completed in 2006 and detailed design will begin in 2009. The large stormwater pond will be multi -use. It will be designed as a pilot project to provide water for golf course irrigation (although it may be too saline for this use) and for snow - making for the local ski hill. Seventy to eighty percent of downspouts are already disconnected in this area and the top 40 metres of soil is largely impermeable material. It was noted that these factors led to the need to create a very large pond for stormwater management. November 27, 2008 Page F87 •The Canadian Film Centre site is an opportunity to test changes in landscape to eliminate some of the runoff over the valley wall. The City has worked with Toronto Green Community on developing designs for stormwater management on the site. Margaret Buchinger added that two public meetings on this project are expected. The first will be with the owners of properties that adjoin the site. The second meeting, expected to be later in the spring of 2009, will be for the general public. In the aftermath of the August 19, 2005 storm there were 4,000 complaints to Toronto Water of basement flooding. This storm exceeded the capacity that infrastructure was designed for in several areas of the Don and in the Highland watershed. A map presented on chronic basement flooding issues shows that the worst -hit areas are between Highway 401 and Steeles, and several areas south of the 401 but abutting the Don or Humber Rivers. The Basement Flooding Study determined that the sewer system performed as designed on August 19, 2005, but it was designed for "normal" storm conditions. During extreme storms the sanitary sewer system is overloaded and surface flooding is seen on private property. Thirty -one priority areas have been identified by Toronto Water. In total, a six year program will be required to complete the necessary class EA studies; four have now been completed. Incentives are offered for homeowners to put in place measures to ameliorate basement flooding. This program is voluntary, but to date only 10% of the homes affected by the 2005 storm have taken part. Toronto Water would like to increase this participation. Incentives offered are up to $1,250 for sewer backwater valves and $1,750 for sump pumps. Don Council Comments When downspout disconnection was a voluntary program, requests did not always receive adequate response due to staff shortages. Should we be pursuing outreach if there is insufficient staff to address inquiries? It will take some time to clear the backlog of requests. The report to City Council identified the issue of staffing as a concern to be addressed. • Do demonstration sites exist? We have one up and running (for water - efficient gardening) and plan to have videos on the website, plus demonstrations in home renovation stores such as Home Depot. Why are people resistant to the program to assist with installation of the valves that help to prevent sewer back -up to their basements? The cost is not entirely subsidized. Homeowners can expect to pay 20 - 30% of this cost, and the installation does require a licensed plumber to do the work. If a homeowner has not experienced a back -up despite being identified as within the area at risk, they will be less likely to want to pay the up -front costs required. I knew about the downspout disconnection program but not the basement valve one. The word is not getting out to the public. Agreed. How can the City address this? Bill Snodgrass noted that the area hardest hit by basement flooding in the August 2005 storm is not on CSOs but on separate sewers and would not have been subject to the sewer backup • problem. November 27, 2008 Page E88 Adele Freeman asked whether the City had done promotion at Environment Days. Yes, there was such promotion for the downspout disconnection program but less has been done for the basement flooding program. Have you held a workshop for plumbers to inform them of the valves' purpose and installation? They could act as ambassadors for the program. We did have a plumber come out to our most recent basement flooding meeting. That is a good idea. A demonstration site showing several of the initiatives in one location would be helpful. We do plan to have such a demo in a Home Depot store. Ratepayers associations should be engaged. Perhaps we could also include information in newsletters such as On the Don. Yes, we will contact the ratepayers associations. When will the Earl Bales ponds be completed? We estimate in late 2009 or 2010. • Partners in Project Green Chandra Sharma, Etobicoke Mimico Watershed Specialist, TRCA, showed a short film and gave a presentation on the Partners in Project Green initiative. The sound quality of the available speakers was poor, but any DWRC members that wish to may contact Michelle Vanderwel to receive a copy of the video. Partners in Project Green (Pearson Eco- Business Zone) involves the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) and a large number of businesses surrounding Pearson Airport (in Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton).- This work is similar to that proposed for the Leaside and /or Lesmill concept site suggested for the Don watershed plan, although it is on a larger scale. The project will result in the largest eco- business zone in North America. Eighty percent of the businesses involved are small- to medium - sized. It involves over 1000 hectares of greenspace, with the potential to increase this by 25 %. The project study area contains 12,000+ businesses with 350,000+ employees. Key sectors include logistics and warehousing, automotive supply, food processing, plastics and airport- related businesses. The area is largely developed but buildings cover relatively little of the developed land. Roads take up to 30% of the business park area. Continuous stretches of open space exist. The project will focus on reductions in energy and water consumption, reuse of waste products, coordinated purchase of green products and services and transportation issues (e.g., promotion of the Smart Commute initiative). A strategy will be developed to retain and attract green businesses in the Pearson Eco- Business Zone as well as a strategy to train local youth in green jobs. November 27, 2008 Page F89 The project discovered that many business representatives want a bundled program; i.e., they want one initiative to reduce energy use, water use, reuse materials, etc. The first projects to be implemented will be the Employment Land Planting Program and the Green Parking Lot Program. Don Council Comments Where would the land come from for the proposed increase in green space? Some land is owned by the businesses involved with the project and it could be converted to green space. Some land is currently used for agriculture and conversion would not be difficult. How did the project initially get started? TRCA has long worked with the GTAA. They were on board, and one study with Pearson as an anchor for many surrounding businesses made sense. The timing was right for this to go forward. TRCA made the initial inquiries that started the project off. Adele Freeman added that Pearson Airport has a very sophisticated stormwater management system and that GTAA provided financial support for fisheries management and stormwater. management plans. They have long been an active partner in TRCA projects. How were the limits of the study area set? The study area was centered on the airport, and then extended outward until it met with residential areas, which were not included. Who is the consultant for the project? We have been working with various consulting engineers, groups and partners. Eco- Industrial Solutions Ltd. of Vancouver is a consultant. They are a national expert in eco- industrial parks and they have never before seen a project of this scale. (Editor's Note: for more information on the project, -visit their website at: http: / /www.partnersinprojectgreen.com) • Reach by Reach: Adding Value to the new Don Watershed Plan Andrew McCammon, Taylor Massey Project (TMP), gave a presentation on Reach by Reach, a subwatershed plan for the Taylor /Massey Creek subwatershed produced by TMP. The report provides a subwatershed current conditions report (based largely on the current conditions reports developed by TRCA for the Don); identifies a vision for the subwatershed, with measurable goals for a future report card; includes suggestions for watershed management by agencies; and provides detailed, prioritized suggestions for the regeneration of the subwatershed, including cost estimates. The Don watershed plan will be very helpful in guiding policy development; this plan focuses on implementation. November 27, 2008 Page F90 It was emphasized that this is a draft document. Three public meetings to consult on the report are expected in early 2009. Twenty -three neighbourhood associations and local groups were consulted and partnered with in its development. The top priorities outlined in the plan are the trails and plantings in the Warden Hydro Trail, implementation of Phase II of the Terraview Willowfield remediation, erosion control and floodplain regeneration in the Eglinton Reach, remediation of perched culverts and establishment of a community stewardship program in the Underwriters Reach, and designation of Warden Woods as an ESA with development and implementation of a plan to eliminate invasives and expand wetlands there. Don Council Comments If the money is allocated for these projects, who would be responsible for their execution? TMP is unable to take them on. Hopefully, the City and TRCA would partner to work on these projects. The first phase of the Terraview - Willowfield regeneration involved the province, the federal government and the City, was conducted on City property, and was executed by TRCA. The Don Council thanked Tracy Manolakakis, Bill Snodgrass, Chandra Sharma and Andrew McCammon for their presentations. MINUTES RES. #F43/08- MINUTES TO MEETINGS #9/08 Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Doug Obright THAT the minutes of meeting #9/08, held on October 23, 2008, be approved CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTERESTS There were no pecuniary interests disclosed. CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING November 27, 2008 Page F91 4.1 Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on the Great Lakes -St. Lawrence Cities Initiative 4.2 Proposed Green Roof By -law for the City of Toronto OUTGOING 4.3 Don Community Stewardship Project Proposal INCOMING 4.4 Don Valley Parkway Stormwater Management Project, Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Public Meeting & Open House RES. #F44/08- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Peter Heinz THAT correspondence items 4.1 through 4.4 be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS 5.1 Environmental Commissioner of Ontario 2007/2008 Annual Report - Getting to K(NO)W 5.2 Release of Regeneration Plan for Taylor Massey Creek 5.3 Final Public Meeting Invitation — Yonge Subway Extension RES. # F45/08- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Marg McRae Seconded by: Joe Agg THAT information items 5.1 through 5.3 be received CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 7.1 Proposed 2009 Don Watershed Regeneration Council Meeting Dates There were no watershed plan items expected to come to the Don Council in December. It was therefore agreed that the December 3, 2008 Watershed Plan and Policy Committee, the December 4, 2008 Outreach Committee, and the December 11, 2008 Don Council meetings November 27, 2008 Page F92 would all be cancelled. Meetings of committees and the DWRC would resume in January and February, 2009. Bill Snodgrass informed DWRC members that the City intends to hold a public consultation for the Don and Waterfront Trunk Sewers and CSO Control Strategy in January 2009. Although the date is not yet finalized, January 22 is being held as the likely date for the consultation. It was suggested that the Don Council could meeting briefly on -site before this consultation and then attend the event. It was agreed that the Don Council meeting date, suggested as January 8, 2009 in the meeting dates communication, would be changed to January 22 (the location will be determined based on whether the City consultation is confirmed for that date). The Watershed Plan and Policy Committee meeting #3/09 date was noted to be incorrect. The correct date should be Wednesday May 6, 2009. All other dates were accepted by the DWRC. (Editor's note: the list of revised dates was sent to all DWRC members November 28, 2008 and included suggested Don Council Chairs Teleconferences dates.) (Editor's note: the City CSO consultation did not go forward on January 22, 2009 as planned and instead will be held in early February, 2009. The January Don Council meeting was scheduled to be held on January 22 at North York Civic Centre and an email informing members of this was sent on January 6, 2009.) 7.2 York Region Transportation Master Plan Updates Margaret Buchinger commented that the full draft document was expected to be released in January 2009, so the DWRC would provide comment on that document at that time. 7.3 Cosmetic Pesticides Ban - Proposed New Ontario Regulation Margaret Buchinger noted that the DWRC had commented on the City's pesticide use by -law and suggested that comment on this provincial policy would cover similar issues. The agricultural sector was excluded from the provincial ban; however, in the headwaters of the Don watershed, pesticides from agriculture can accumulate in dry ditches. Some accumulations then move into the river system during flood events. It was agreed that Margaret Buchinger will draft a response to this proposed policy before the submission deadline of December 22, 2008. Andy Wickens will be consulted for his comments on the draft. Any other DWRC members that would like to provide input on these comments should contact Amy Thurston. COMMITTEE REPORTS Community Outreach and Education Committee The minutes to the most recent committee meeting were included in the addendum to tonight's agenda. Janice Palmer requested that members go through these minutes and review and November 27, 2008 Page F93 prioritize the list of suggested topics for the next On the Don newsletter. As some of these items will need to be moved to the Spring newsletter, members should contact Amy Thurston with their comments. Adele Freeman noted that Councillor Adrian Heaps' office would like to link their website to the On the Don page. Michelle Vanderwel will contact the Councillor's office to arrange this and will•also keep a record of new requests for the newsletter. TORONTO AND AREA REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN Adele Freeman reported that the process to hire a new RAP Coordinator had begun. DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORT LANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT Adele Freeman informed the DWRC that a public meeting would be held by Waterfront Toronto on December 10, 2008 for the Lower Don. The primary focus of the meeting would be the Master Servicing Plan EA and Precinct Planning for the area. The design team will be there. There will not be much focus on the naturalization of the river at the December meeting but plans are to hold a meeting in early 2009 for the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project EA. DAVID DUNLAP OBSERVATORY Joe Agg reported that the Conservation Review Board hearing dates have been set. The hearings will be held Thursday January 15th, Friday Januaryl 6th, and Monday January 19th through Friday January 23rd, 2009. Each meeting is scheduled for 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. The meetings will be held at the Town of Richmond Hill offices, Committee Room 2, 225 East Beaver Creek, Richmond Hill. Members of the public may attend as observers. The Board chair will set aside some time for the public to speak about the Observatory and /or history of the property. Once this date is set, Michelle Vanderwel will inform Don Council members of it. NEW BUSINESS Peter Heinz reported that the Don Council has been asked by the Town of Markham to provide some of the funding for watershed identification in the Rouge. As there is $150,000 remaining in the fund provided by the Town for the Don watershed and because each year another $25,000 is added, it was agreed that this funding could be provided. Deputy Mayor Jack Heath's office has been working with the sign producers and some of the sign posts are already in the ground. The project is proceeding rapidly. Adele Freeman suggested that there should be a concept site within Markham to take advantage of this funding allotted by the Town. November 27, 2008 - Page F94 ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:15 pm. Phil Goodwin Chair /mv Brian Denney Chief Administrative Officer