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Home My WebLink AboutDon Watershed Regeneration Council 2010TORONTO AND REGION -"`y--- Lion for The Living City theDon MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #1/10 F1 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at North York Civic Centre, Committee Room #3 on Thursday March 11, 2010. Phil Goodwin, Acting Vice - Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Joe Agg Member Bryan Bertie Member Margaret Bream Member Margaret Buchinger Member Robert Emerson Member Nadia Fetisova Member Phil Goodwin Member, Acting Chair Mike Halferty Member Moyra Haney Member Tim Hayward Member Peter Heinz Member Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Mandy Karch Member Jaehong Kim Member Wes Lammers Member Jana Levison Member Celeste Longhurst Member Gloria Marsh Member Laud Matos Member Janet McKay Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Reiko Obokata Member Gerri Lynn O'Connor TRCA Chair Janice Palmer Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Jonathan Veale Member Andy Wickens Member GUESTS Justyna Braithwaite Riversides Albert Fong Resident Jessica Marriman Resident F2 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #1/10 March 11, 2010 STAFF Adele Freeman .Director, Watershed Management Division, TRCA Keri McMahon Project Manager, Don Watershed Planning, TRCA Jinho Lee Administrative Assistant, Don /Highland Watershed, TRCA WELCOMING REMARKS Adele Freeman, Director, Watershed Management, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority introduced herself and welcomed the members to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. A. Freeman stated that the election of the Chair and Vice -Chair will occur at a future meeting and that P. Goodwin, last term's Chair will assume his position of Acting Chair until the election has occurred. Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council welcomed and thanked everyone for joining. Gerri -Lynn O'Connor, Chair, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, thanked everyone for their commitment to the Don Watershed and stated that TRCA needs assistance from volunteer committees such as the Don Watershed Regeneration Council to naturalize and enhance the environment. Peter Heinz, Acting Vice Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council welcomed everyone to the committee and identified his involvement in the Watershed Crossing Signs and Walk the Don Series. PRESENTATIONS A. Freeman provided a brief introduction to the TRCA including its vision, geographic boundaries and the make up of the TRCA Board. A brief history of the Don Watershed Plan — Beyond Forty Steps and how it fits into the TRCA's organizational structure was highlighted. TERMS OF REFERENCE / BRIEFING BINDER K. McMahon provided an overview of the contents of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council Briefing Binder. The briefing binders are designed to be a useful resource tool for members and are divided into the following main categories: History of Conservation Authorities, Toronto and Region Conservation, The Don River Watershed, Contacts, Environmental Volunteer Network, and Appendices. March 11, 2010 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #1/10 F3 The members were introduced to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council Terms of Reference. RES. #F1/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Margaret Buchinger THAT the Don Watershed Regeneration Council Briefing Binder with the revisions to the contact list be received; AND FURTHER THAT the Terms of Reference of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, dated November 2009, be received CARRIED OVERVIEW OF UPCOMING PROJECTS K. McMahon introduced some of the projects and events that will be occurring within the Don Watershed such as the Paddle the Don event, Richmond Hill Mill Pond Splash, Milne Hollow and Milne House Restoration project as well as City of Toronto's Don River and Central Waterfront Project. Paddle the Don registration spaces fill up within the first couple of the days and members were urged to sign up as soon as possible. Although it is a free event for individuals, donations are accepted. Corporate teams do not have a deadline, but must donate a minimum of $1200 to participate. P. Goodwin commented that the funds raised are held by the Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto. The highest individual fundraiser is invited to dinner at Rodney's Oyster House for Quest for Chowder event. Last year, the Corporate Canoe Challenge raised over $6000. The funds raised from Paddle the Don, approximately $45,000 were given to the City of Vaughan as "seed" money to initiate programs which will receive larger grants from other sources. All corporate groups and dignitaries launch on -site at the same time. A good canoer who can take dignitaries with them is being sought. Members should notify Jinho Lee if they are aware of such a person. Mill Pond Splash's purpose is to create awareness of the Don River Watershed at the headwater of the Don River. It is a free event that will include animal displays, nature scavenger hunt, planting, music, wildlife displays, and a butterfly release. T. Hopkins provided a brief introduction to Charles Sauriol and the development of the Charles Sauriol Conservation Reserve. The purpose of the Milne House Restoration project is not only to preserve this heritage building, but to restore it as a demonstrative building outlining the basis that older homes can be converted to green homes. F4 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #1/10 March 11, 2010 RES. #F2/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Margaret Buchinger THAT the above -noted overview of upcoming projects be received CARRIED LIVING CITY REPORT CARD The Living City Report Card is a high level snapshot of how TRCA leads, partners and influences work aimed at achieving sustainable communities. Volunteers from the Don Watershed Regeneration Committee members will be recruited to work on the next Report. Further discussion regarding this will occur at the next Don Council meeting. RES. #F3/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Margaret Buchinger THAT this item be deferred to the next Don Regeneration Council meeting CARRIED DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL BUS TOUR — April 24, 2010 A. Freeman indicated that a bus tour has traditionally been scheduled at the beginning of each new term of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council to visit various locations such as the Archetype House at Kortright Centre, Lake St. George to learn about education programs, and Earl Bales to learn about water management projects. Members were encouraged to suggest other locations of interest as well as their availability to Jinho Lee. It was suggested that the tour start at Yonge St. and York Mills Ave. at 9:00 am and that members be on site at 8:30 am. The tour will end at the same location at approximately 4:00 pm. RES. #F4/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Margaret Buchinger THAT staff be directed to make appropriate arrangements to host a bus tour for Don Watershed Regeneration Council members on April 24, 2010 CARRIED March 11, 2010 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #1/10 F5 DON WATERSHED RELATED EVENTS LISTING K. McMahon identified environment event dates and venues for: Lake Ontario Evenings, East York Historical Society meeting, Don Watershed Regeneration Council Bus Tour, Paddle the Don, Mill Pond Splash, Opening of Maple Nature Reserve Quonset Hut Regeneration project, Source Water Protection meetings, and Charles Sauriol Conservation Dinner. RES. #F5 /10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Margaret Buchinger THAT the members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council be aware of the upcoming events occurring within the TRCA jurisdiction CARRIED PADDLE THE DON EVENT VOLUNTEER Don Council members were urged to participate in the delivery of the Paddle the Don Event. Over 100 volunteers donated their time last year and the same number of volunteers will be needed for 2010 as well. Some of the volunteer tasks include assistance with: parking control, Corporate Canoe Challenge participants, helping with paddler registration and at the canoe take -out site. ' RES. #F6/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Margaret Buchinger THAT members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council be encouraged to volunteer at the Paddle the Don event to be held on May 2, 2010 CARRIED SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS: 2010 The proposed 2010 meeting schedule for the Don Watershed Regeneration Council was presented. Members requested that a meeting be scheduled in October and that the meeting on May 6, 2010 be rescheduled to May 13, 2010. RES. #F7 /10 Moved by: Moyra Haney Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger THAT a revised schedule of meetings be brought to the next meeting of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - CARRIED F6 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #1/10 March 11, 2010 NEW BUSINESS Greenbelt With the Greenbelt celebrating its fifth anniversary, Toronto City Council has unanimously declared its intention to apply to expand the Greenbelt in Toronto beyond the current Rouge River Park. The proposed additions to the Greenbelt are the Don and Humber watersheds. However, no confirmation from the province has been announced. There are various policy issues that need to be addressed before this becomes official. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:00 pm. March 11, 2010 Adele Freeman Brian Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /jI TORONTO AND REGION 1.-- onserva tion for The Living City theDan MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #2/10 F7 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at North York Civic Centre, Committee Room #3 on Thursday April 8, 2010. Peter Heinz, Acting Vice - Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Joe Agg Member Margaret Bream Member Margaret Buchinger Member Robert Emerson Member Nadia Fetisova Member Mike Halferty Member Moyra Haney Member Tim Hayward Member Peter Heinz Member Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Jaehong Kim Member Wes Lammers Member Jana Levison Member Celeste Longhurst Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Reiko Obokata Member Janice Palmer Member Jonathan Veale Member Andy Wickens Member GUESTS Ted Bowering Manager, Toronto Water, City of Toronto Justyna Braithwaite Toronto Green Community Susan Sigrist York Region Environmental Alliance STAFF Sameer Dhalla Manager, Water Resources, TRCA Adele Freeman ....Director, Watershed Management Division, TRCA Jinho Lee Administrative Assistant, Don /Highland Watershed, TRCA Keri McMahon Project Manager, Don Watershed Planning, TRCA Rick Sikorski Manager, Marketing and Sales, TRCA F8 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #2110 April 8, 2010 WELCOMING REMARKS Peter Heinz, Acting Vice Chair welcomed everyone to the second Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. P. Heinz suggested that members minimize the use of acronyms and abbreviations during presentations and commenting sessions to minimize confusion throughout the meeting. RES. #F8/10 - MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Jonathan Veale THAT the minutes of the meeting #1/10 held on March 11, 2010, be approved CARRIED PRESENTATIONS a) Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan Laud Matos, Fish Habitat Biologist, Environment Canada did not do a presentation on RAP due to illness. b) Watershed Hydrology Sameer Dhalla, Manager, Water Resources, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority delivered a presentation on stormwater management which identified water quality /quantity concerns, flood control management, existing stormwater management infrastructures as well as mitigation methods and technologies. He indicated that source control such as downspout disconnects and low impact developments are key methods to minimize flooding events. c) Don River and Central Waterfront Project Ted Bowering, Manager, Toronto Water, City of Toronto presented the City's Wet Weather Flow Management Plan (WWFMP). He indicated that the goal of the WWFMP is to reduce and ultimately eliminate the adverse impacts of wet weather flow, to protect the environment, improve the ecosystem and health of the watersheds. He listed numerous areas of concerns, which included: stormwater outfall at the Eastern Beaches, the inner harbour, Don and Waterfront trunk sewer, Taylor Massey Creek and Ashbridge's Bay Coatsworth Cut. MOTION - TORONTO AND REGION REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN (RAP) The watershed of the Don River is one of six watersheds that comprise the Toronto & Region Area of Concern. The Don River watershed is therefore included in the Toronto & Region Remedial Action Plan. Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Tom Hopkins THAT the presentation on the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan be received for information; THAT the members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council be advised that additional and updated information pertaining to the Remedial Action Plan is available at www.torontorap.ca; THAT the Don Watershed Regeneration Council give due consideration to the advancement of Remedial Action Plan objectives in their deliberations and undertakings; AND FURTHER THAT the membership of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council consider involvement in any formal consultations regarding the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan THE MOTION WAS DEFERRED RES. #F9 /10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Tom Hopkins THAT the presentation and staff report on the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP) be deferred to the May 13, 2010 meeting of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council CARRIED RES. #F10 /10 - WATERSHED HYDROLOGY To provide members of the Don Council with background on the hydrology of the Don watershed. Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger Jonathan Veale THAT the staff report and presentation on Watershed Hydrology be received. .... ......... .. CARRIED RES. #F11/10 - THE DON RIVER AND CENTRAL WATERFRONT PROJECT To profile the City of Toronto's initiatives on water management such as the Don River and Central Waterfront Project and the Wet Weather Flow Master Plan. Moved by: Seconded by: Joe Agg Wessel Lammers THAT the staff report on the Don River and Central Waterfront Project be received; THAT Ted Bowering, Manager, Toronto Water, City of Toronto be thanked for his presentation; AND FURTHER THAT the members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council attend when possible formal consultations regarding the Don River and Central Waterfront Project CARRIED F10 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #2/10 April 8, 2010 RES. #F12 /10 - LIVING CITY REPORT CARD To outline the nature of the Living City Report Card and its associated work plan. Moved by: Seconded by: Dianne Ness Janice Palmer THAT the staff report regarding the Living City Report Card be received for information; AND FURTHER THAT the Don Watershed Regeneration Council appoint Jana Levison and Mandy Karch and Jonathan Veale to participate in The Living City Report Card Subcommittee...CARRIED RES. #F13 /10- ONLINE PRIVATE SOCIAL NETWORK ON YAMMER FOR THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL To inform Don Watershed Regeneration Council members of a private online social network on Yammer. Moved by: Seconded by: Annie McLeod Jana Levision THAT a private online social network on Yammer be created for Don Watershed Regeneration Council members to enable efficient exchange of information, opinions and documents among Council members and TRCA staff; AND FURTHER THAT the staff report regarding Don Watershed Regeneration Council Private Network on Yammer be received CARRIED RES. #F14/10- REVISED SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS: 2010 . A revised schedule of meeting dates is proposed for the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. Moved by: Seconded by: Annie McLeod Jana Levision THAT the revised meeting dates for the Don Watershed Regeneration Council scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on the following dates be approved; 2010 DATES, as revised #2/10 Thursday, April 8, 2010 Saturday, April 24, 2010 (DWRC Bus Tour) #3/10 Thursday, May 13, 2010 #4/10 Thursday, June 10, 2010 #5/10 Thursday, July 8, 2010 (Garden Party Meeting - location TBA) #6/10 Thursday, September 9, 2010 April 8, 2010 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #2/10 F11 #7/10 Thursday, October 21, 2010 #8/10 Wednesday, November 10, 2010 THAT Don Watershed Regeneration Council members consider the revised schedule provided as the most current and up to date; AND FURTHER THAT the meetings be held at North York Civic Centre CARRIED RES. #F15 /10- CALENDAR OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS Calendar of environmental events in TRCA jurisdiction. Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Jonathan Veale THAT the staff report on the schedule of events be received for information CARRIED NEW BUSINESS Mill Pond Splash Event Mill Pond Splash is an annual event held on June 6th, 2010 from 12 pm to 4:30 pm Mill Pond Park in Richmond Hill. The event is developed in partnership with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Town of Richmond Hill, Richmond Hill Naturalists, and Don Watershed Regeneration Council to promote environmental conservation and awareness. Members who are interested in volunteering for this event are asked to contact Joe Agg or Jinho Lee. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:15 pm. April 8, 2010 Adele Freeman Brian Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /j l CTORONTO AND REGION Y onserva Lion for The Living City theDon' MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #3110 F12 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at North York Civic Centre, Committee Room #3 on Thursday May 13, 2010. Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Joe Agg Member Margaret Buchinger Member Robert Emerson Member Nadia Fetisova Member Phil Goodwin Member Mike Halferty Member Moyra Haney - Member Tim Hayward Member Moyra Haney Member Peter Heinz Member Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Jaehong Kim Member Many Karch Member Wes Lammers Member Jana Levison Member Celeste Longhurst Member Gloria Marsh Member Laud Matos Member Annie McLeod Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Reiko Obokata Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Jonathan Veale Member Andy Wickens Member GUESTS Leigh Davison City Resident Susan Sigrist York Region Environmental Alliance Lauren Brown LEAF STAFF Ken Dion Senior Project Manager, Watershed Management Division, TRCA Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division, TRCA Jinho Lee Administrative Assistant, Don /Highland Watershed, TRCA Keri McMahon Project Manager, Don Watershed Planning, TRCA F13 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #3110 May 13, 2010 WELCOMING REMARKS Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, welcomed everyone to the third Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. RES. #F8/10 - MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Janice Palmer THAT the minutes of the meeting #2/10 held on March 11, 2010, be approved CARRIED PRESENTATIONS 5.1 Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP) Laud Matos, Fish Habitat Biologist, Environment Canada delivered a presentation on the history and background on the Remedial Action Plan and identified the areas of concern affecting the Great Lakes as well as the current status of ongoing projects within Canada and the US. 5.2 Don Mouth Naturalization and Port lands Flood Protection Project Environmental Assessment (DMNP EA) Ken Dion, Senior Project Manager, Watershed Management Division, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority delivered a presentation on DMNP. He provided a project overview including major milestones and stated that the focus of the project is to transform the existing mouth of the Don River including the Keating Channel, into a healthier, more naturalized river outlet to the lake, while at the same time, removing the risk of flooding to over 200 hectares of urban land to the east and south of the river. The project will create high quality habitat and wetlands as well. K. Dion stated that the EA process is near completion and the next step is to receive approval from the federal and provincial government and secure funding for implementation. Tom Hopkins questioned what the verdict was on the Recreational Sports Centre and how it fits with plans related to the mouth of the Don. A. Freeman explained that the design of the facility is not finalized. May 13, 2010 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #3110 F14 MOTION #F2/10 - DON MOUTH NATURALIZATION AND PORTLANDS FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT The Don Mouth naturalization and Port lands Flood Protection Project will redevelop existing land to provide flood protection and regenerate wildlife habitat. The EA process is near complete and will be submitted for approval to City Council. Moved by: Dianne Ness Seconded by: Gloria Marsh THAT the presentation on the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port lands Flood Protection Project EA be received for information; THAT a group be authorized to write a letter to City of Toronto Council expressing the Don Council's support and interests in the DMNP EA; THAT a group be authorized to write a letter to City of Toronto Council expressing the Don Council's concern over the "suburban" design of the Recreational Sports Complex, in particular the extent of surface parking; THAT the following members form a project team to advocate for support and funding of the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port lands Flood Protection Project: Margaret Buchinger, Tom Hopkins, Robert Emerson, Dianne Ness, Whelena Sainsbury, and Celeste Longhurst; AND FURTHER THAT the following members work together to formulate the letter regarding the Sports Centre: Margaret Buchinger, Tom Hopkins, Celeste Longhurst and Jonathan Veale. THE MOTION WAS CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS RES. #F16/10 - TORONTO AND REGIONAL REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN — DEFERRED FROM PREVIOUS MEETING To provide members of the Don Council with background on the Toronto and Regional Remedial Action Plan. Moved by: Seconded by: Jana Levison Andy Wickens THAT the presentation on the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan be received for information; F15 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #3110 May 13, 2010 THAT the members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council be advised that additional and updated information pertaining to the Remedial Action Plan is available at www.torontorap.ca; THAT the Don Watershed Regeneration Council give due consideration to the advancement of Remedial Action Plan objectives in their deliberations and undertakings; AND FURTHER THAT the membership of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council consider involvement in any formal consultations regarding the Toronto & Region Remedial Action Plan CARRIED RES. #F17/10 - INFORMATION ITEMS 7.1, 7.2, 7.3 and 7.4 Moved by: Seconded by: Jana Levison Andy Wickens THAT information items 7.1 through 7.4 be received CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 8.1 2010 Paddle the Don Keri McMahon provided an overview of the 2010 Paddle the Don event that happened on Sunday May 2, 2010. She thanked Don Council members for volunteering on May 2nd and emphasized the important role volunteers play to help run the event. She indicated it was another successful event that raised $51,000 through corporate sponsorship and individual pledges. Paddle the Don received media coverage from CFRB 1010, Chum FM, CBC Radio, CTV, Global, Globe and Mail, and the Toronto Star. Adele Freeman stated that Royal Bank of Canada participated in Paddle the Don as a corporate team this year. They have also shown their support of TRCA programs by donating $100,000 dollars to the Kortright Centre for Conservation. Moyra Haney indicated that the more Paddle the Don products such as t -shirts and vests be made available for next year's event. M. Haney also noted that throw bags sold out. Tom Hopkins noted he was impressed that the event sold out in 12 hours. He would like to further discuss if the event may be made bigger to allow more people to participate, while respecting the logistical and safety constraints associate with the event. Janice Palmer noted a number of people returning year after year and inquired about limiting the number of years in a row that the public may participate. J. Palmer also inquired if staff can determine the number of people registered but did not make a pledge. Phil Goodwin suggested holding 50 positions that could be won by people on the wait list by doing a draw. May 13, 2010 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #3/10 F16 John Hough indicated he volunteered as a corporate marshal. He was concerned that some corporate team members were not properly equipped, and that they were taught paddling techniques on site. J. Hough also noted that some teams arrived very early prior to their launch time. Joe Agg suggested providing better stakes for signage and not pre- fastening the signs to stakes. 8.2 Mill Pond Splash Joe Agg informed the Don Council that the 2010 Mill Pond Splash event will be held on Sunday, June 6th from 12 pm to 4:30 pm at Mill Pond Park at Richmond Hill. He indicated that several Don Council members have offered to volunteer at the event. 8.3 Living City Report Card Jana Levison indicated that Many Karch, Jonathan Veale and herself represented the Don Council at the first Living City Report Card meeting on April 21, 2010 at TRCA head office. She indicated that the purpose of the Living City Report Card is to provide a high level snapshot of conditions related to a sustainable city and that the report card will focus on four new indicators: 1. Healthy rivers and shorelines 2. Regional biodiversity 3. Sustainable communities 4. Business excellence. J. Levison stated that the report card will be aimed at stakeholders and councillors. The subcommittees will be involved by commenting and providing feed back on draft reports, leading the development of indicators, data connections, providing ideas for design and layout, images and promotion of the report card. The future Living City Report Card meetings are scheduled for 6:30 pm at TRCA head office on June 23`d, July 7th, Oct.6th and November 3`d. 8.4 REVIEW OF PAST DWRC ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN PREPARATION FOR FACILITATED PLANNING SESSION - VERBAL UPDATE A. Freeman briefly listed major milestones and asked that the Don Council review the list of accomplishments. 9.0 UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Janice Palmer indicated that Sherwood Park previously was closed for construction and is now reopened. She expressed concern for increased growth of Garlic Mustard. She suggested that DWRC members organize a Garlic Mustard pulling event. F17 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #3/10 May 13, 2010 10.0 NEW BUSINESS A. Freeman informed the Council that project teams for the Don Council will be established at the next meeting and that Nicole Swerhun, Swerhun Consulting, will facilitate the meeting. J. Veale, C. Longhurst and Dianne Ness agreed to assist in the organization of the next meeting. K. McMahon will organize a meeting /conference call with N. Swerhun. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting ended at 9:15 pm May 13th, 2010 Adele Freeman Brian Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer 111 TORONTO AND REGION Y` onserva tron for The Living City theDoi MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #4/10 F18 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at the North York Civic Centre, Committee Room #3 on Thursday June 10, 2010. Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. PRESENT Joe Agg Member Bryan Bertie Member Margaret Bream Member Lauren Brown Member Margaret Buchinger Member Robert Emerson Member Nadia Fetisova Member Phil Goodwin Member Moyra Haney Member Tim Hayward Member Moyra Haney Member Peter Heinz Member Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Jaehong Kim Member Many Karch Member Celeste Longhurst Member Gloria Marsh Member Annie McLeod Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Jonathan Veale Member Andy Wickens Member GUESTS Susan Sigrist York Region Environmental Alliance Nicole Swerhun Facilitator STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division, TRCA Jinho Lee Administrative Assistant, Don /Highland Watershed, TRCA Keri McMahon Project Manager, Don Watershed Planning, TRCA F19 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #4/10 June 10, 2010 WELCOMING REMARKS Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, welcomed everyone to the fourth Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. He introduced Amy Thurston, Project Manager, TRCA and stated that Amy is now back from her maternity leave and will resume her work within the Don Watershed. RES. #F8/10 Moved by: Seconded by: - MINUTES to meeting #3/10 Mandy Karch Joe Agg THAT section 9.0 Updates from Other Watershed Groups be re- written as follows: "Janice Palmer reported that construction in Sherwood Park is now complete. All trails are now open." ..CARRIED CORRESPONDENCE OUTGOING 4.1 PROPOSAL FOR A SPORTS CENTRE IN THE PORT LANDS Letter from Phil Goodwin, Chair, to City of Toronto Mayor Miller and Members of Council regarding the Sports Centre in the Port Lands suggesting public consultation and revisions to the design of the facility. RES. #F18/10 - CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Andy Wickens Annie McLeod THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED INFORMATION ITEMS a) ITEM 5.1 Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project Environmental Assessment b) ITEM 5.2 Ontario Drinking Water Stewardship Program Update c) ITEM 5.3 In The News d) ITEM 5.4 Don Watershed Regeneration Council Member Profile e) ITEM 5.5 Lower Don Lands Project June 10, 2010 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #4/10 F20 RES. #F19/10 - INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: , Seconded by: Joe Agg Annie McLeod THAT information items 5.1 through 5.5 be received for information CARRIED ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 6.1 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL PLANNING Nicole Swerhun facilitated a workshop at the Don Watershed Regeneration Council on Thursday, June 10, 2010 at the North York Civic Centre, Committee Room #3. The purpose of the work shop was to develop a work plan to guide the Council members and create working groups for the next two to three years. From the meeting, four groups were formed: Policy and Advocacy group, Community Outreach group, 905 /Upstream crew, and Communications group. The work shop summary will be presented at the next Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting on July 8, 2010. RES. #F20/10 - INFORMATION ITEMS UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS a) Joe Agg provided a summary of the Richmond Hill Mill Pond Splash event. J. Agg stated that the event was nearly cancelled due to bad weather condition, but the weather changed in favour of the event in the afternoon. He advised that DWRC members: Jae Hong Kim, Wessel Lammers, Mandy Karch, and Moyra Haney all volunteered at the event and helped with distributing plants, bird box building, the administrative tent and putting up signs. Gloria Marsh was also at Mill Pond Splash as an exhibitor representing the York Region Environmental Alliance. G. Marsh stated that the children's activity: Mill Pond Splash — Eco hunt did a great job at engaging the public and recommended similar activities for next year. Adele Freeman estimated that there were over 1000 participants through out the day and stated it was one of the best turnouts since the Mill Pond Splash began 12 years ago. b) J. Agg informed the DWRC members that Lake St. George is open for tours as part of York Region's Door Open event. F21 Don Watershed Regeneration Council #4/10 June 10, 2010 Annie McLeod stated that the grand opening for Evergreen Brick Works is on Saturday September 25, 2010. The event is open to all public and suggested that members of the DWRC may wish to attend. TERMINATION The meeting ended at 9:30 p.m. on June 10, 2010. Adele Freeman Brian Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /j1 TORONTO AND REGION " v onserva tion for The Living City theDon MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #5/10 July 8, 2010 Page F22 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at Margaret Buchinger's house on Thursday July 8, 2010. Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. PRESENT Joe Agg Member Bryan Bertie Member Margaret Bream Member Lauren Brown Member Margaret Buchinger Member Robert Emerson Member Nadia Fetisova Member Phil Goodwin Member Moyra Haney Member Tim Hayward Member Moyra Haney Member Peter Heinz Member Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Many Karch Member Wes Lammers Member Jana Levison Member Celeste Longhurst Member Gloria Marsh Member Annie McLeod Member Margaret McRae Member Reiko Obokata Member Dianne Ness Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Andy Wickens Member GUESTS John Wilson Task Force to Bring Back the Don Ben Hoff . Task Force to Bring Back the Don STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division, TRCA Jinho Lee Administrative Assistant, Don /Highland Watershed,'TRCA Keri McMahon Project Manager, Watershed Planning, TRCA F23 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #5110 July 8, 2010 WELCOMING REMARKS Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, welcomed everyone to the fifth Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. He thanked Margaret Buchinger for allowing the DWRC meeting to take place at her house. PRESENTATION John Wilson, Chair, Task Force to Bring Back the Don (TFBBD) and Ben Hoff, Vice -Chair of Policy and Planning Team of Task Force to Bring Back the Don did a presentation on "The Don Valley Trail ". J. Wilson briefly introduced the TFBBD by stating that they are City of Toronto Citizen's group working to bring back a clean, green and accessible Don River Watershed. He also stated that the trails on the Don Valley are disconnected and vary on trail quality. One of the TFBBD's goals is to develop and enhance the trails system by creating new trails and connecting existing trails, expand opportunities for new and improved interpretive functions (signs), connect residents and businesses to the watershed, and Zink watershed "centres of excellence" to elevate watershed stewardship. B. Hoff requested support from TRCA, Don Council and other groups to develop a general consensus, identify stakeholders, build local advocacy and support ongoing initiatives of the TFBBD. B. Hoff stated that a workshop aiming to analyze the existing trails and develop plans to connect the trails is being organized for fall. A. Freeman said that TRCA can provide maps for the workshop. As this is in keeping with the DWRC desire for interregional trails, an ad hoc group of Peter Heinz, Tom Hopkins, Dianne Ness and Andy Wickens has been struck to work with the Task Force to assist in their Don Valley Trails initiatives. RES. #F21/10- MINUTES TO MEETING #04/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Joe Agg THAT the minutes of the meeting #04/10 held on June 10, 2010 be approved CARRIED RES. #F22/10- CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS a) JNCOMING Communication from Taylor Massey Creek on the Three Strategic Priorities for Taylor Massey Creek July 8, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #5/10 F24 b) OUTGOING Letter from the Don Watershed Regeneration Council to Mayor Miller and Members of the Executive Committee, June 10, 2010. RE: Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project Environmental Assessment and Lower Don Lands Framework Plan. Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Peter Heinz THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED RES. #F23/10- INFORMATION ITEMS a) ITEM 5.1 Future Forests b) ITEM 5.2 Low Impact Development Stormwater Management Planning and Design Guide c) ITEM 5.3 Ontario Water Opportunity and Water Conservation Act d) ITEM 5.4 Coxwell Sanitary Trunk Sewer Emergency Response Plan Moved by: Seconded by: Peter Heinz Jana Levison THAT information items 5.1 through 5.4 be received for information CARRIED MOTION #F3/10- DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL WORKING SESSION — DRAFT WORKSHOP SUMMARY NOTES Communication from Amy Thurston, Project Manager, Watershed Management, Toronto and Region Conservation to the Members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, Meeting #05/10, July 8, 2010 Wes Lammers indicated that he was not present at the DWRC Planning workshop and is not registered to a group. He stated that he would join the 905 /Upstream Crew. J. Agg requested that his name be listed beside the Dunlop Observatory project on the workshop summary notes. Phil Goodwin explained that the Don Council is not confined to the projects and tasks stated within the workshop summary notes, and that new projects can be added and priorities may change throughout the course of the term. F25 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #5/10 July 8, 2010 Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Robert Emerson THAT draft summary notes be approved; THAT four groups be formed and the draft work plans as outlined in the draft summary notes be used to guide the work of each working group; THAT co- chairs from each working group report back to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council on a regular basis; AND FURTHER THAT changes to the summary note requested by the Don Council be made. MOTION CARRIED RES. #24/10- DRAFT QUESTION FOR ALL CANDIDATES MEETING T. Hopkins explained that the Policy and Advocacy Group (PAG) is going to develop a list of 5 or 6 questions that could be used as a reference during upcoming municipal all candidates meetings. The questions will be simple, non - confrontational and will use subtlety in wording to show that the issues are of concern of the Don Council, not necessarily of the TRCA. Possible question topics are: 1. Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project EA and the Lower Don Lands Plan 2. Cleaning up Our Water ways - The Don River and Central Waterfront Project. 3. General Water related question 4. Dry Weather Flow Management - illegal pipe connections to houses that discharge waste to the river. Moved by: Tom Hopkins Seconded by: Moyra Haney THAT the draft questions be distributed to members prior to next Don Council meeting...CARRIED COMMITTEE REPORTS Item: 7.1 POLICY AND ADVOCACY GROUP Policy and Advocacy Group - T. Hopkins stated that the Water Opportunity Act is one of their key activities. Members are discussing what their next steps will be in order to reach the submission deadline. Celeste Longhurst stated that the Etobicoke Mimico Coalition have prepared a draft letter as well. July 8, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #5/10 F26 The Government of Ontario is seeking feedback from the public on the Provincial Policy Statement. It was suggested that the Don Council members work together to provide comments. Adele Freeman stated that background information will be distributed to the Don Council members. Item 7.2 OUTREACH GROUP Community Outreach Group - John Hough informed that the first group meeting was held on Wednesday July 7, 2010. J. Hough stated that volunteers are needed to walk the trails and compare /update the Walk the Don' guides. He also indicated that the water crossing signs encountered political issues so P. Heinz and A. Freeman are working together to resolve outstanding issues. UPDATES FROM OTHER GROUPS a) 905 /Upstream Crew - G. Marsh provided a copy of the draft "Clean River Tips" to the Don Council. G. Marsh requested that the Don Council members take a moment to review and comment. The Clean Rivers Tips will be used as an education piece to raise awareness and educate the public on the importance of rivers. G. Marsh suggested that development of this document be given priority. b) Jana Levison stated that the 2nd Living City Report Card meeting was held on July 7, 2010. She informed that the Toronto City Summit Alliance is working on developing a report that will share similar context as the Living City Report Card. TRCA and Greening Greater Toronto - a working group of Toronto City Summit Alliance will work collaboratively to create one report. ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES Item 8.1 NEXT DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL MEETING Don Council members were made aware that the #06/10 DWRC meeting in September is on the same day as Jewish holiday - Rosh Hashanah. No request to change the date was received and the members agreed that the meeting will occur as planned on September 16, 2010. Item 8.2 POLICY AND ADVOCACY GROUP MEETING Next PAG meeting is scheduled for August 10, 2010 F27 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL• #5/10 July 8, 2010 NEW BUSINESS A. Freeman stated that the planting event at the Maple Nature Reserve on June 19, 2010 was a great success. She mentioned that the seed money that initiated the project came from the money raised from past Paddle the Don events. She noted that.the quality of design of this wetland project is quite high and hope to see this level of design quality at the mouth of the Don. MOTION #F4/10- OFFICIAL THANKS TO STEPHEN COCKLE FOR CONTRIBUTION TO MILL POND SPLASH EVENTS THAT Stephen Cockle be recognized for his volunteer service over the past 8+ years on Richmond Hill's annual Mill Pond Splash event CARRIED Moved by: Joe Agg Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger (TBC) TERMINATION The meeting ended at 7:45 p.m. on July 8, 2010. Adele Freeman Brian Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /j l PRONTO AND REGION -Nr"-- onserva tion For The Living City theDon MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6/10 September 9, 2010 Page F28 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at The North York Civic Center on Thursday September 9, 2010. Adele Freeman, Director, Watershed Management Division, Toronto Region Conservation Authority, called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm. PRESENT Bryan Bertie Member Margaret Bream Member Margaret Buchinger Member Robert Emerson Member Nadia Fetisova Member Phil Goodwin Member Moyra Haney Member Tim Hayward Member Peter Heinz Member Brenda Hogg Member Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Jae Hong Kim Member Jana Levison Member Celeste Longhurst Member Gloria Marsh ....} Member Laud Matos Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Reiko Obokata Member Janice Palmer Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Jonathan Veale Member Andy Wickens Member REGRETS Lauren Brown Member Wessel Lammers Member Annie MacLeod Member GUESTS Susan Sigrist Guest Ingrid Sylvester Guest STAFF Yves Danteu Volunteerism and Mentorship Program Coordinator Jim Dillane Director, Finance, Business Services Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Amy Thurston Project Manager, Watershed Planning Alexis Wood Coordinator, Public Programs, Don /Highland Watershed F29 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6/10 September 9, 2010 WELCOMING REMARKS A. Freeman, Director, Watershed Management Division, welcomed everyone to the sixth Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. The floor was turned over to J. Dillane, Director; Finance, Business Services to conduct the election of officers. APPOINTMENT OF SCRUTINEERS FOR THE ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE -CHAIR OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL Amy Thurston was nominated by Jim Dillane. .Adele Freeman was nominated by Jim Dillane. Moved by: Seconded by: Margaret McRae Moyra Haney,. ELECTION OF CHAIR — DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL Peter Heinz was nominated by Moyra Haney. Phil Goodwin was nominated by Tom Hopkins. Peter Heinz declined the nomination for the office of Chair of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. Phil Goodwin accepted the nomination for the office of Chair of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. RES. #F25/10- MOTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF CHAIR OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL Moved by: Seconded by: Janice Palmer Moyra Haney THAT nominations for the office of Chair of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council be closed CARRIED Phil Goodwin was declared elected as Chair of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. September 9, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6/10 F30 ELECTION OF VICE -CHAIR - DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL Peter Heinz was nominated by Jonathan Veale. Peter Heinz accepted the nomination for the office of Vice -Chair of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. RES. #F26/10- MOTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF VICE -CHAIR OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL Moved by: Margaret McRae Seconded by: Moyra Haney THAT nominations for the office of Vice -Chair of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council be closed CARRIED Peter Heinz was declared elected as Vice -Chair of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. PRESENTATION Environmental Volunteer Network Y. Danteu, Volunteerism and Mentorship Program Coordinator, made a presentation on the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's Environmental Volunteer Network (EVN). The presentation focused on the following: What is EVN? Goal and history of EVN • The Volunteerism at TRCA Other EVN initiatives and activities: Professional Access and Integration Enhancement (PAIE) and Mentoring to Placement (M2P). EVN success EVN next steps J. Palmer suggested that training sessions should emphasize that 30 hours of volunteer work provides great experience, but does not necessarily lead to a job offer. J. Palmer suggested that in instances where the online system must be reset, that organizations using these services to find volunteers be notified and given the opportunity to re- establish their profiles so as to avoid being removed from the site. J. Hough suggested that a more customer service oriented approach should be implemented to confirm that an application has been received. A. Freeman advised that she would follow -up with the EVN program manager. F31 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6/10 September 9, 2010 RES. #F27/10- MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: Celeste Longhurst Andy Wickens THAT the minutes of meeting #5/10 held on July 8, 2010, be approved with an amendment to the September meeting date of the DWRC as follows: The DWRC meeting date be changed from September 16th to September 9th CARRIED CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING • Letter from Ulli S. Watkiss, City Clerk, City of Toronto to All Interested Parties — July 13, 2010, re: Executive Committee Item 45.15, Lower Don Lands Project (Ward: 28, 30). • Email from Tracey EhI and Toronto Water to Stakeholders — September 7, 2010, re: Cleaning Up Our Waterways: The Don River and Central Waterfront Project update and invitation. OUTGOING • Letter from Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council dated July 16, 2010, re: Ontario Water Opportunities and Water Conservation Act, 2010, EBR Registry Number 010 -9940. • Letter from Phil Goodwin, Acting Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council dated August 27, 2010, re: City of Vaughan Draft Official Plan Review. RES. #F28/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Andy Wickens THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED September 9, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6/10 F32 RES. #F29/10- INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: John Hough Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger • Design options for the Port Lands Sport Centre, Public Meeting - July 13, 2010 • The Living City Report Card: Partnering with Greening Greater Toronto on The Living City Report Card and the future of individual TRCA watershed report cards. o M. Buchinger questioned the absence of Green Roofs from the Living City land use indicators. o . B. Bertie suggested that in order to get a clearer sense of what is involved with Ecological Goods and Services, more information is needed. • Wilket Creek Channel within Wilket Creek Park - Rehabilitation study and geomorphic systems and habitat study, approval of contract o J.Hough requested a clearer definition of geomorphology. A. Freeman provided a response and suggested a presentation be made in the future. o J. Palmer noted that the last page of the report incorrectly identifies the West Don as the East Don. • East Don Trail (Charles Sauriol Reserve) - Phase 1 b, Award of contract RSD10 -17 - Pedestrian footbridge and overhead protective canopy structures • Lower Don Special Policy Area - modifications to special policy area boundaries and floodplain management policy framework on lands south of Keating Channel • Lower Don Special Policy Area - Modifications to special policy area boundaries on lands north of Keating Channel • 17`h Annual Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner for the Living City o C. Longhurst requested information on where the funds of the Sauriol dinner are directed. • Provincial Policy Statement, Five Year Review: To provide an update on the recent review of the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) and determine next steps for submitting comments to the Province prior to their October 29, 2010 deadline. • Plant a Tree for Tomorrow: Tree and Shrub Planting: Join Toronto Region Conservation and LEAF in Nevada Park to plant trees and shrubs on Saturday October 2, 2010 from 10 am - 12 pm • Art works and photography depict the evolution of the Don Valley landscape at Market Galley exhibition THAT the following information items be received CARRIED F33 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6110 September 9, 2010 RES. #30/10- DRAFT DON WATERSHED ELECTION QUESTIONS Moved by: Seconded by: Dianne Ness Robert Emerson THAT the draft Don Watershed election questions be accepted in principle with minor changes to ensure accuracy CARRIED RES. #F31/10- Moved by: Seconded be: SUBCOMMITTEE MINUTES The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Jonathan Veale Janice Palmer THAT the following minutes be received: • Policy and Advocacy Group #2/10 (August 10, 2010) • Community Outreach Group #1/10 (July 7, 2010) ..CARRIED UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Update from the Toronto Bruce Trails Club J. Hough advised that they are currently working to expand walking opportunities for the City of Toronto and have been contacted by the City of Toronto to update the Discovery Walks series. Update from the Task Force to Bring Back the Don J. Palmer advised there is a planned plant rescue planned prior to the commencement of emergency works at Parkview Hills, near the Taylor- Massey Creek and East Don River confluence. J. Palmer advised that the flora study of the cottonwood flats will be finished in January and comments have been submitted on the consultant's plan. Update from the Habitat Group • J. Palmer reported that there is an issue with fires in Sherwood Park and Blythwood Park. Update from the East Don Partners P. Goodwin advised that a walk will be held at the end of September, tree planting will occur on October 16`h, 2010, and planning is under way for the Winter Chowder event. September 9, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #6/10 F34 ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES The Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting #7/10 has been re- scheduled to October 12, 2010. The date of the Don Watershed Regeneration C ouncil meeting #8/10 is changed to correctly read Wednesday, November 10, 2010. NEW BUSINESS Diesel Spills in the Don C. Longhurst discussed concern with the handling of the diesel oil spill on August 15th, 2010 in the East Don river near Thorncliffe Park by the company responsible. David Dunlap Observatory York Regional Councillor and Deputy Major of Richmond Hill Brenda Hogg attended and provided an update on the David Dunlap Observatory property. TERMINATION On motion, the meeting terminated at 9:06 pm, September 9, 2010. Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /AW. TORONTO AND REGION Y onserva tion for The Living City theDon MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 Page F35 October 12, 2010 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at The North York Civic Center on Tuesday October 12, 2010. Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council, called the meeting to order at 6:32 pm. PRESENT Bryan Bertie Member Margaret Bream Member Margaret Buchinger Member Robert Emerson Member Phil Goodwin Chair Moyra Haney Member Tim Hayward Member Peter Heinz Vice -Chair Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Mandy Karch Member Wessel Lammers Member Jana Levison Member Annie MacLeod Member Gloria Marsh Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Reiko Obokata Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Jonathan Veale Member Andy Wickens Member REGRETS Lauren Brown Member Nadia Fetisova Member Jack Heath Member Celeste Longhurst Member GUEST William Withers Water Resources and Stormwater Operations Coordinator, Town of Richmond Hill STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Amy Thurston Project Manager, Watershed Planning Alexis Wood Coordinator Public Programs, Don /Highland Watershed October 12, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 F36 WELCOMING REMARKS P.Goodwin welcomed everyone to the seventh Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. The floor was turned over to W.Withers, Water Resources & Stormwater Operations Coordinator, Town of Richmond Hill to begin a presentation on the Pioneer Park Stormwater Management Rehabilitation Project. PRESENTATION Pioneer Park Stormwater Management Rehabilitation Project W. Withers, Water Resources and Stormwater Operations Coordinator, Town of Richmond Hill, made a presentation on the Pioneer Park Stormwater Management Rehabilitation Project: Rehabilitation of an existing flood control facility to provide protection to vulnerable areas, protect existing infrastructure, enhance erosion control, treat water quality, and stabilize and rehabilitate the associated watercourse. The presentation focused on the following: • Background on the Storm Water Management rehabilitation project, including: location, history, project benefits, funding, and construction challenges. • Operation of the Facility • Monitoring Programs • Awards A copy of the presentation is available online at: http: / /www.richmondhill.ca/ documents / pioneer_ park_ stormwater _management_presentation.pdf At the request of council members, W. Withers provided a clearer definition of an Oil -Grit Separator (OGS). As per W. Withers, an oil -grit separator is essentially a rectilinear concrete chamber connected to the storm drain system. Runoff passes through three cells modified to separate out grit, oil and sediment before it passes to a storm drain pipe. J. Hough questioned if the separated sediment can be safely integrated back into the environment. W. Withers informed the council members that this issue is currently being investigated through an ongoing study and depends on the water quality standards in place. J. Hough questioned if the oil is recycled. W. Withers advised that while this issue is unregulated, the Town of Richmond Hill tries to ensure they are cleaned out properly and the waste material is dealt with appropriately. G. Marsh commented that York Region has just released their Storm Water Management Master Plan and that this is an excellent opportunity to coordinate with them. J. Hough questioned if there was a review process for new developments. W. Withers advised the council that Engineers conduct reviews of all applications. P. Goodwin questioned if this project was designed to accommodate the 100 year storm. W. Withers advised the council members that this project will accommodate the 100 year storm and F37 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 October 12, 2010 that design standards are changing due to the anticipated effects of climate change. Any data pre 1990 is no longer considered. G. Marsh questioned if dredging will continue. W. Withers advised the council members that dredging will continue to be a requirement, however, the oil -grit separator installed at this site will assist with the collection of sediment. A. MacLeod questioned if a community planting event would be appropriate to help green the completed area. W. Withers advised the council members that Richmond Hill's Natural Heritage Department coordinates community tree planting events. As the area is currently under construction, any planting events will not occur until 2011. W. Withers will provide the DWRC with information on planting events as they are planned. The TRCA will be completing planting of the wetland within the next couple of weeks. RES. #F32/10- MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Gloria Marsh THAT the minutes of meeting #6/10 held on September 9, 2010, be approved CARRIED In response to comments received during the Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting #6/10 on September 9, 2010, A. Thurston provided the council with a clarification regarding the absence of Green Roofs from the Living City land use indicators and a clearer definition of Ecological Goods and Services. • Green roofs are only a requirement in Toronto at this time, therefore, only Toronto has data available. For this reason, Green Roofs will not be included as part of the Living City land use indicator. • The term Ecological Goods and Services speaks to the monetary value that forests, wetlands, meadows, and watercourses provide for services like recreation, education, reducing infrastructure costs, etc. Basically, it deals with environmental assets. October 12, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 RES. #F33/10 - CORRESPONDENCE Moved by: Margaret McRae Seconded by: Margaret Buchinger THAT the following correspondence be received CARRIED F38 INCOMING • Report from Toronto Water to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 16, 2010, re: Cleaning Up Our Waterways: the Don River and Central Waterfront Project Public Forum information - Public Information Centre #3 Report • Report from Toronto Water to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 16, 2010, re: Cleaning Up Our Waterways: the Don River and Central Waterfront Project Public Forum information - Frequently Asked Questions • Report from Toronto Water to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 16, 2010, re: Cleaning Up Our Waterways: the Don River and Central Waterfront Project Public Forum information - The Wet Weather Flow Master Plan Backgrounder • J. Routh questioned if this project will consider illegal storm drain connections. A. Freeman suggested that a representative of the City of Toronto be invited to outline the program to address illegal cross connections. • Report from Toronto Water to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 16, 2010, re: Cleaning Up Our Waterways: the Don River and Central Waterfront Project Public Forum information - Public Workshop Report • Notice from the City of Vaughan, Planning Department to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 13, 2010, re: Notice from the City of Vaughan, Planning Department to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 13, 2010 • Notice from the City of Vaughan, Planning Department to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 13, 2010, re: Official Plan Review - Volume 2: Lands subject to existing secondary plan policies and site and area specific policies, Response to Public, Government, and Agency Submissions. • Notice from the Regional Municipality of York, Planning Department to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 22, 2010, re: Notice of the Adoption of City of Vaughan Official Plan 2010 • Notice from Toronto Green Community to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - September 16, 2010, re: Toronto Green Community All Candidate's Meeting, Thursday, October 14, 2010 • Notice of event: Lake Ontario Evenings - Contaminant Edition, October 27, 2010 at the Pilot Tavern, Stealth Lounge (22 Cumberland St. Toronto). Doors open at 6:00 pm. F39 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 October 12, 2010 • Notice from Waterfront Toronto to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council — October 6, 2010, re: West Don Lands Community Update Meeting, Thursday October 14th, 2010 (6:30 to 8:30 pm at 157 King Street East). INFORMATION ITEM RES. #F34/10- Moved by: Seconded by: Allocation of funds from the Charles Sauriol Dinner To provide a report on the allocation of funds from the Charles Sauriol Dinner as requested by members at meeting #6/10, held on Sept 9, 2010. Diane Ness Tom Hopkins THAT the following report be received based on clarification CARRIED BACKGROUND The Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner is an annual event celebrating the great conservationist and visionary Charles Sauriol. In his younger years, Charles leased a property along the Don River, where he kept a wild flower garden, tapped maple syrup, canned fruit and vegetables; kept a goat, pigs, as well as chickens, and of course bees. In 1951, the first issue of "The Cardinal" was published. A newsletter developed by Charles Sauriol, "The Cardinal" recorded the history of the Don and brought to life the streams, woodlands, birds and flowers located at the doorstep of Toronto. Charles Sauriol would later go onto to become the chairman of the Conservation Areas Advisory Board of the Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, now known as TRCA. During his tenure, Charles Sauriol helped acquire 74 parcels of land, totaling 2,500 acres at a cost of $10.5 million. These properties included part of Glen Major, Duffins Creek, Claremont, Albion Hills, Bruce's Mill, Cold Creek, Claremont Field Centre, Roblins Mill at Black Creek Pioneer Village, Greenwood and Lake St. George. In 1971 Charles Sauriol joined The Nature Conservancy of Canada and continued his conservation efforts at the national level. In his later years, Charles retuned to assist conservation authorities in Ontario with raising funds for the acquisition of conservation lands. At the time of his death at 93 years of age, he was still assisting TRCA in raising 1 million dollars to purchase one more key property in his beloved Don River watershed, Milne Hollow. Charles Sauriol's lifetime devotion to environmental conservation was recognized by many: He was made a Member of the Order of Canada in 1989, and received numerous awards and citations, including the Governor General's Conservation Award in 1980 and the Parks Canada Heritage Award in 1991. First held in 1994, the Charles Sauriol dinner is an annual event that celebrates and honors the lifetime conservation efforts of Charles Sauriol and raises funds to carry on with his vision by protecting environmentally significant lands while raising awareness of the importance of conservation. October 12, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 F40 To date, this event has been attended by over 10,000 people and raised more than $900,000. These funds have enabled the Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto and The Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust to save thousands of acres of land, ensuring that future generations will enjoy clean water and air. Examples of properties acquired to date in 2010 include the Toronto District School Board property, (Mimico Creek watershed, City of Toronto), William Love and Mary Anne McEvenue property (Humber River watershed, Township of King) and Runnymede Development Corporation Limited property (Rouge River watershed, City of Toronto). This year's event will be held on Friday, November 5, 2010 . at the International Centre, 6900 Airport Road in Mississauga. For information contact: David Love (x6291) or Amy Thurston (x5283) Date: September 28, 2010 ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION RES. #F35/10- Moved by: Seconded by: Cleaning Up Our Waterways: the Don River and Central Waterfront Project Public Forum Information session To provide a report on the recent presentation made at the City of Toronto's Cleaning up our Waterways: The Don River and Central Waterfront Project Public Information Forum held on Monday September 27, 2010 at the Toronto Botanical Gardens. Peter Heinz Whelena Sainsbury THAT the following summary and presentation be received CARRIED BACKGROUND In 2003, Toronto City Council adopted the West Weather Flow Master Plan (WWF MP), along with a 25 -year Implementation Plan to guide implementation over the initial course of the project. The goal of the WWF MP is to reduce and ultimately eliminate the impacts of wet weather flow in order to protect the environment and improve the ecological health of the watersheds. The Plan was developed with the recognition that wet weather flow will be managed on a watershed basis through a series of solutions beginning with at source, followed by conveyance, and concluding with end -of -pipe. Other key elements include stream restoration, remediation of basement flooding, municipal operations, greening new development, and public education. To help foster public dialogue and involvement, an initial public workshop session was held on May 31, 2010 to receive ideas, comments, and concerns surrounding the project. In order to help foster the public dialogue necessary for this project, interested parties were invited to participate in a second forum, which was held September 27, 2010, where participants were encouraged to identify new or follow -up comments, and /or to make joint presentations. F41 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 October 12, 2010 Margaret Buchinger and Tom Hopkins, representing the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, made a presentation at this forum, endorsing the principles of the Cleaning up our Waterway report with the following conditions: • That the new Don River Watershed Plan — "Beyond Forty Steps," 2009 be the framework for selecting locations for tanks and tunnels and that valley regeneration sites be avoided wherever possible. • That restoration of valleys, as required in the WWF Master Plan is not lost in the adjustment to priorities resulting from approval of this project and that adequate funds are allocated for regeneration. The WWFMP contained commitments for watercourse and valley improvements including removal of fish barriers, bank stabilization and new plantings Funds must be available, not just for emergency repairs, (such as Wilket Creek) but for improvements.in aquatic habitat, aggressive riparian planting and amelioration of the impacts of population growth on natural areas. • That the alignment and detailed engineering design respect mature trees, environmentally sensitive features and new plantings and protect them not only during construction but also ensure their viability after completion. • That valley restoration is incorporated as a mandatory componentof this project and that regeneration is undertaken to the highest possible standard to withstand the anticipated impacts of climate change. The majority of those in attendance were in support of moving forward with the plan. An informal working group has been established with Michael D'Andrea, Margaret Buchinger, and Tom Hopkins to work on securing the involvement of major environmental groups in this project. Attachment: Presentation made by the Don Watershed Regeneration Council at the Cleaning up our Waterways Public Forum For more information, contact: Amy Thurston (x5283), Margaret Buchinger, or Tom Hopkins Date: September 28, 2010 Cleaning up Our Waterways Don Watershed Regeneration Council Deputation Toronto Botanical Gardens September 27, 2010 My name is Margaret Buchinger , a former member of the Wet Weather Flow Steering Committee and Implementation Advisory Committee. I am here today with Tom Hopkins representing the Don Watershed Regeneration Council whose mandate is to help restore the Don Watershed to a healthy, sustainable, natural environment. A new Don River Watershed Plan, - "Beyond Forty Steps " was approved by TRCA in 2009, It is based on extensive, new environmental and monitoring data over the 16 year period from the first Don Watershed Plan in 1994. The scientific data confirms that the major barrier to regenerating the river is still the polluted rainwater and CSO's entering our waterways . October 12, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 F42 "Beyond Forty Steps "underlines the importance of tackling run -off and CSO's in a comprehensive way so that we can all enjoy cleaner water, achieve reduction of flooding and erosion and, eventually, eliminate the high costs of emergency repairs after major storms. The Plan adopted 3 strategic themes as the framework to guide all activities — both public and private — in order to make the great leap forward in renewing the Don • Build , re -build and retrofit communities to restore water balance and improve sustainability; • Regenerate the aquatic and terrestrial landscapes; • Build on the grassroots interest and enthusiasm of residents and business people in the Don Watershed The Wet Weather Flow Master Plan, which was approved by City Council in 2003 provided the strategy for capturing and cleaning run -off before it is released into the river and the Lake .Water is treated as a resource ( rather than waste ), a resource which should be harvested , conserved and reused wherever possible. The Master Plan promotes enhanced levels of source controls, extensive conveyance improvements and aggressive end -of -pipe controls — in that order — to reduce runoff and improve the quality of water returning to the river . This "treatment train" approach puts strong emphasis on source controls and moving forward quickly to achieve the maximum run -off reduction possible. We commend the City and TRCA on many initiatives already undertaken. • Downspout disconnection and use of rain barrels — a voluntary program which is now mandatory; • Green Building Standards including pervious pavement and green roofs, the latter now mandatory on all new residential, commercial and institutional buildings over 2000m2; • Greening of parking lots Program and Guidelines • Environmental restoration and SWM projects — Earl Bales, Harding Park, East Don Wetland, Bartley Smith Greenway. • Rainwater Harvesting Demonstration Projects such as the one at the Better Living Centre • Low Impact Development Guidelines • Tree planting by the City, agencies and community groups. In 2009 the City planted 118,000 and the TRCA 150,000 trees and bushes — an activity which provides all age groups and many immigrant communities with valuable and enjoyable lessons in environmental stewardship while producing measureable benefits in terms of riparian regeneration and bank stabilization. A great deal has been achieved since 2003 in capturing and re -using rainwater. However our concern is that there is no consistency in the requirement for many greening measures (for example, pervious pavement in new developments) and there are long delays in approvals to go ahead with green initiatives. A good example is the very building we are in today. An excellent plan for reconstruction of the Toronto Botanical Garden parking lot with pervious pavement and infiltration trenches has been stalled indefinitely because of lack of funds .Not only is a source control opportunity missed but the educational value of a leading edge environmental project in a very high pedestrian traffic area is squandered If source controls and public outreach are priorities, as stated in the Wet Weather Flow Master Plan, then it follows that more funding is needed for projects with significant capture of run -off at source, environmental enhancement and educational value. F43 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 October 12, 2010 "Cleaning up our Waterways" presents another opportunity to engage the general public further, to showcase some of the finished projects — Terraview Willowfield. Harding Park and Earl Bales, and explain the next steps forward. More detailed sessions could be arranged for those who want to delve into the methodology of the study and technical solutions, and for local groups who need to know the impacts of construction. Now to address conveyance controls. Every time it rains the quality of the water is degraded and the condition of the conveyance system (CSO's leakages. cross contamination) has a role to play in the quality of water entering the river and also into the ground water. The Master Plan focuses on perforated pipes, roadside ditches and sewer separation of combined systems. Severe storms in 2000 and 2005 resulting in basement flooding, together with annual, localized pipe failures due to ageing of the system have required very heavy investments. As a result, some of the progressive measures of the Plan noted above have been proceeding slowly and others, like sewer separation, are only undertaken on an opportunistic basis with road reconstruction. While road reconstruction provides the only practical window for sewer separation and other conveyance improvements, it takes time. We cannot expect rapid changes as with source controls. What we do expect is coordination of all needed improvements with every opening of a road. Sewers should be separated and other conveyance upgrades implemented at the same time as other needed improvements to underground services are made — in one coordinated project. Nothing undermines public confidence in municipal government more than the sight of roads torn up multiple times for different services as if they had zippers and the municipality had bottomless pockets. There is a real public outcry for better coordination of repair and replacement work and comprehensive project management. Every time road work is scheduled there should be better consultation with all other underground service providers to ensure that "one visit suits all" even if this means changing work schedules and budgets. Environmental restoration is our top priority — value for tax payer's dollars comes a close second. Having said that, all of the scientific evidence shows that source controls, together with diligent attention to the conveyance system, cannot clean up the stormwater sufficiently to meet regulatory standards. Further capture and cleansing is needed before the water reaches the river system. There is no perfect solution. Even the most environmentally friendly end -of -pipe solutions have their problems. SWM ponds are expensive to maintain requiring dewatering and dredging every 10 years and neighbours often reject a proposed pond based on safety and other concerns, tanks and tunnels, on the other hand, are expensive and sit idol for part of the year. "Cleaning up our Waterways" proposes a series of tanks and tunnels and satellite treatment facilities - an "engineered" solution. The report asserts it will reduce the CSO's from 42 to one event in the season (April to Oct.) per year and, we assume, incorporates a margin of error for the anticipated increase in the number, intensity and wider seasonal distribution of severe storms. The conclusion is that it will clean up the river and waterfront and go a long way to delist the waterfront as an Area of Concern. The alternative would be a slow and only partial improvement in the quality of water through construction of those ponds and wetlands which turn out to be technically feasible and acceptable to the community. The WWFMMP identified 173 possible pond or wetland sites in the city as a whole. The argument for pursuing these "green" opportunities is still compelling in that they reduce the volume of water which could affect the sizing of the tanks. They also offer the secondary benefits of a regenerated landscape and habitat enhancement Therefore we urge the October 12, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 F44 City to target realistic opportunities and begin environmental assessments in those cases where there will be significant community benefits. At the same time we accept the technical evaluation that ponds alone cannot match the level of clean water achieved through the preferred solution. Therefore we endorse the principles of the Cleaning up our Waterway" report with a number of conditions: • That the new Don River Watershed Plan — "Beyond Forty Steps," 2009 be the framework for selecting locations for tanks and tunnels and that valley regeneration sites be avoided wherever possible. • That restoration of valleys, as required in the WWF Master Plan is not lost in the adjustment to priorities resulting from approval of this project and that adequate funds are allocated for regeneration. The WWFMP contained commitments for watercourse and valley improvements including removal of fish barriers, bank stabilization and new plantings Funds must be available, not just for emergency repairs, (such as Wilket Creek) but for improvements in aquatic habitat, aggressive riparian planting and amelioration of the impacts of population growth on natural areas. • That the alignment and detailed engineering design respect mature trees, .environmentally sensitive features and new plantings and protect them not only during construction but also ensure their viability after completion. • That valley restoration is incorporated as a mandatory component of this project and that regeneration is undertaken to the highest possible standard to withstand the anticipated impacts of climate change. In conclusion, some of you may be able to remember swimming in the Don River. The successful implementation of this project holds out that possibility - perhaps in my lifetime. The most compelling argument is that our legacy is not a polluted river handed on to our children and grandchildren. RES. #F36/10- Moved by: Seconded by: ManuLife Donation for Paddle the Don To announce the recent donation from ManuLife Financial for Paddle the Don. Diane Ness Andy Wickens THAT the following report be received ...CARRIED BACKGROUND Paddle the Don is .a popular event that has been held the first Sunday in May since 1994 and provides a unique opportunity for people to canoe or kayak the Don River from Ernest Thompson Seton Park (Leslie Street and Eglinton Avenue in the City of Toronto) to the mouth of the River at the Keating Channel. F45 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 October 12, 2010 This event is jointly organized by TRCA, the Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto, the Wilderness Canoe Association, and the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, and is supported by many dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and watershed supporters. Paddle the Don has been a very successful family- oriented event, offering a unique opportunity for people to get out and enjoy nature, celebrate the Don River watershed and reflect on the benefits derived from the natural environment: air, water, resources, recreation and spiritual renewal. By highlighting the importance of healthy river systems in Toronto and the surrounding regions, the event helps to motivate the community to protect and restore the watershed in which they live. More recently, Paddle the Don has evolved into a very successful fundraising event. Until 2002, Paddle the Don was viewed mainly as a means to celebrate the Don River and raise public awareness. Historically, fundraising at the event was limited to a coin box and some in -kind contributions from a few corporations; generally around $1,000 was raised. In 2002, the Don Watershed Regeneration Council spearheaded an initiative to collect donations from individual canoeists through the use of sponsorship forms and prize incentives. Approximately $9,400 was raised through this small fundraising activity. Based on this response, it was quickly realized that the Paddle the Don event presented a more significant fundraising opportunity. To that end, in addition to individual fundraising efforts, a corporate fundraising component was added to the event which has grown larger each year. Between 2005 and 2010, Banrock Station Wines has been the official sponsor of the Corporate Canoe Challenge. Starting in 2011, we are pleased to announce ManuLife Financial as our new title sponsor for the event. ManuLife Financial has generously agreed to support the event by providing $25,000 per year for the next 3 years. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Planning for the 2011 Paddle the Don event, including working with our new sponsor ManuLife Financial will begin this fall. For Information contact: David Love (x6291) or Amy Thurston (x5283) Date: September 30, 2010 October 12, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 F46 RES. #F37/10- Moved by: Seconded be: SUBCOMMITTEE MINUTES The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Moyra Haney Jana Levison THAT the following minutes and verbal update be received CARRIED • Communications Group (Verbal Update of call Tuesday, September 28, 2010) • J. Veale reported that the Communications Group held a short teleconference on September 28th. Members discussed some ideas on how they could go about getting the Don message into the public eye. The members agreed to have a formal meeting on October 19th to discuss the role and mandate of the working group and to develop a more formal strategy. • Community Outreach Group #2/10 (Thursday, September 30, 2010) • Policy and Advocacy Group #3/10 (Wednesday, October 6, 2010 UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Update from the Task Force to Bring Back the Don J. Palmer advised that the flora study for Cottonwood Flats will be completed between late December and early January. The Habitat Group are hoping to use the results of the stuffy to rehabilitate the area. Update from the Sherwood Park Advisory Committee J. Palmer provided an update on the fires being set within Sherwood Park (as discussed during the Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting #6/10 held on September 9, 2010). Police have increased their presence in the area and there have been no further fires since the last Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting. Those responsible for setting the fires have also moved out of Blythwood Park. Update from the Toronto Bruce Trails Club As a part of the efforts to expand walking opportunities for the City of Toronto, J. Hough advised the Don Watershed Regeneration Council that if anyone would like to have any items added to any walks (in particular the Don Valley walk) to contact him directly. Update from the East Don Partners P. Goodwin advised that a tree planting event will occur on October 16th, 2010. P. Goodwin also discussed the path of future planting events: half of the events will be planting new trees and shrubs, while the other half of the events will be to take care of those trees and shrubs already planted. F47 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 October 12, 2010 J. Hough questioned where the land is coming from to meet canopy cover requirements. A. Freeman suggested that a representative of Toronto's "Every Tree Counts" be invited to a future Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting. Toronto Field Naturalists M. McRae advised the council that a stewardship event to remove Garlic Mustard will take place October 30th, 2010. SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS The location of the Communications Group meeting #1/10 is changed from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's Downsview Office to the North York Civic Centre, Committee Room #3, and will be held from 7 -9 pm. NEW BUSINESS Don River Logo P. Heinz asked the Council for permission to use the logo on project signing for the Don Valley Trails Initiative. A. Freeman advised that the logo identified the watershed as a whole, and that it is okay to use the logo. Parks Management Plan Update by the City of Toronto A. Freeman advised of an upcoming initiative at the City of Toronto to update the Parks Management Plan and that the DWRC and other watershed groups might like to be involved. A. Freeman encouraged Don Watershed Regeneration Council members to put together a photo portfolio regarding opportunities and concerns within the Toronto Parks system for future reference. Second Tour of the Don Watershed A. Freeman advised that she is willing to host a second tour of sites within the Don watershed for any interested Don Watershed Regeneration Council members who may have not been able to attend the first tour. A. Wood will follow up to determine any interested members and will organize a conference call with A. Freeman to discuss potential sites during the tour. Agenda Items A. Freeman encouraged the Don Watershed Regeneration Council members to let either A. Freeman, A. Thurston, or A. Wood aware of any items they would like included on future agendas. Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner for the Living City P. Goodwin provided a reminder of the upcoming Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner for the Living City to be held on November 5, 2010. P. Goodwin encouraged all members to attend and advised everyone to let A. Wood know if they will be attending in order to organize a Don Council table. October 12, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #7/10 F48 Paddle the Don P. Goodwin advised that there will be a Paddle the Don meeting on October 19, 2010 to discuss sponsorships and other issues for the 2011 event. Grantham Foundation Award for Environmental Writing P. Goodwin advised that Alana Mitchell, a Toronto writer, has become the first sole person and first Canadian to win the Grantham Foundation Award for Environmental Writing. Pool Draining M. Karch requested advice on communicating to pool owners not to drain their pool lines directly into waterways. A. Freeman suggested that the Communications Group become involved and try to get the issue into the newspapers. J. Palmer suggested providing a copy of "Our Toronto" to the pool owners. United Church Visit A. Freeman advised that approximately 1,000 young adults of the United Church will be visiting Toronto August 11, 2011 and will be looking for community projects to get involved with. A. Freeman requested that members let her know of any areas that may be ideal sites for a clean -up. TERMINATION On motion, the meeting terminated at 8:45 pm, October 12, 2010. Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /AW. TORONTO AND REGION Y onserva tion for The Living City theDon MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 November 10, 2010 Page F49 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at The North York Civic Center on Wednesday November 10, 2010. Peter Heinz, Vice - Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council, called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm. PRESENT Joe Agg Member Bryan Bertie Member Margaret Bream Member Nadia Fetisova Member Moyra Haney Member Tim Hayward Member Peter Heinz Vice -Chair Tom Hopkins Member John Hough Member Mandy Karch Member Jae Hong Kim Member Wessel Lammers Member Jana Levison Member Celeste Longhurst Member Annie MacLeod Member Gloria Marsh Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Reiko Obokata Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Jonathan Veale Member Andy Wickens Member REGRETS Margaret Buchinger Member Lauren Brown Member Phil Goodwin Chair Brenda Hogg Member Laud Matos Member GUEST Susan Sigrist Resident Rike Burkhardt Forestry Planner, City of Toronto STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division Amy Thurston Project Manager, Watershed Planning Alexis Wood Coordinator Public Programs, Don /Highland Watershed F50 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 November 10, 2010 WELCOMING REMARKS P. Heinz, Vice - Chair, welcomed everyone to the eighth Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. The floor was turned over to R. Burkhardt, Forestry Planner, City of Toronto to begin a presentation on the City of Toronto forestry study "Every Tree Counts: A Portrait of Toronto's Urban Forest." The presentation focused on the following: • Study rationale and elements • Land cover mapping • Distribution of tree cover • Monitoring forest and land cover change A copy of report "Every Tree Counts" is available online: http://www.toronto.ca/trees/pdfs/Every_Tree_Counts.pdf A. Freeman suggested that the Policy and Advocacy Working Group monitor the presence of this project within City Council and add it as an item for discussion with the incoming municipal council members. RES. #F38/10- MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: Whelena Sainsbury Janice Palmer THAT the minutes of meeting #7/10 held on October 12, 2010, be approved CARRIED In response to a question raised during Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting #7/10 held on October 12, 2010, A. Thurston provided the DWRC with a clarification regarding the allocation of funds raised by the Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner. The $900,000 raised to date was used to leverage additional funds to help purchase and protect thousands of acres of land within TRCA jurisdiction. RES. #F39/10 - CORRESPONDENCE Moved by: Seconded by: Whelena Sainsbury Janice Palmer THAT the following correspondence be received CARRIED INCOMING • Notice of Public Open House Meeting: Tuesday November 16, 2010 in the lobby of the Toronto Botanical Gardens (777 Lawrence Avenue East) from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. re: Edwards Gardens/Toronto Botanical Gardens (TBG) Parking Lot Renovations. November 10, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 F51 • J. Hough will attend the open house on behalf of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. • J. Routh advised the DWRC that it is important to ensure that these parking lot renovations conform to the City of Toronto Guidelines on Green Parking Lots. • A. Freeman clarified that due to cost limitations, only a segment of the parking lot will be renovated in order to ensure that the work completed will be of the highest standard. A. Freeman further suggested that funds raised through Paddle the Don can be used to help leverage additional funding to help complete the parking lot renovations. OUTGOING • Letter to Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Provincial Planning Policy Branch from Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council — October 18, 2010, re: Provincial Policy (2005) Review, EBR Posting No. 010 -9766. • Letter to Natalie Swaak, Coordinator, Don - Highland Community Stewardship, Watershed Management Division, Toronto and Region Conservation from Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council — October 28, 2010, re: Pollinator Plant Restoration Project; Don and Highland Watersheds. • A. Freeman suggested the Keele Valley landfill site (located at the corner of Keele Street and McNaughton Road in Maple) as a potential pollinator garden restoration site. INFORMATION ITEMS RES. #F40/10- Moved by: Seconded by: Dianne Ness Tom Hopkins THAT the following information items be received CARRIED • Communication from Carolyn Woodland, Director, Planning and Development to Chair and Members of the Authority, Meeting #8/10, October 29, 2010, re: Provincial Policy Statement, 2005, EBR Posting No. 010 -9766. • Communication from Carolyn Woodland, Director, Planning and Development to Chair and Members of the Authority, Meeting #8/10, October 29, 2010, re: Lower Don Two Zone Concept Flood Plain Management Policies. • Communication from Deborah Martin- Downs, Director, Ecology to Chair and Members of the Authority, Meeting #8/10, October 29, 2010, re: York -Peel- Durham - Toronto Groundwater Management Study. F52 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 November 10, 2010 ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION RES. #F41/10- Moved by: Seconded by: John Routh Dianne Ness THAT the following items for discussion be received subject to amendments CARRIED A. Communication from Adele Freeman, Director, Watershed Management, Toronto and Region Conservation to Chair and members, Don Watershed Regeneration Council — November 10, 2010, re: Municipal Council Representatives within the Don Watershed. • An ad hoc working group consisting of T. Hopkins, W. Sainsbury, and D. Ness was formed to create a strategy for introducing the Don's issues to all Don watershed municipal councillors. A. Wood to organize the first meeting within the first week of December. A. Freeman to attend the meeting. • A. Freeman suggested that this ad hoc working group develop 4 -5 key messages to bring to the municipal council representatives in the Don watershed. B. Communication from Amy Thurston, Project Manager, Watershed Management, Toronto and Region Conservation to Chair and members, Don Watershed Regeneration Council — November 10, 2010, re: Communications materials and resources available to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. • Members interested in receiving a hard copy of "Beyond Forty Steps" or other Don resources are requested to contact A. Wood. C. Communication from Amy Thurston, Project Manager, Watershed Management, Toronto and Region Conservation to Chair and members, Don Watershed Regeneration Council — November 10, 2010, re: Updated Don Watershed Regeneration Council work plan. • Members were asked to contact A. Thurston if there are any workplan items they feel that been missed. INFORMATION ITEM (A) MUNICIPAL COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES WITHIN THE DON WATERSHED To provide the Don Watershed Regeneration Council with a revised list of City Council representatives within the Don Watershed. BACKGROUND Municipal elections were held on Monday, October 25, 2010, across Ontario. As a result of these elections, municipal council representation within the Don watershed has changed. Updated maps showing the municipal councillors for the Don will be available at the meeting. For more information, contact: Alexis Wood (x5280) Date: November 3, 2010 November 10, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 F53 2010 Municipal Election Results Municipal Council Representatives, Don Watershed Toronto Mayor Rob Ford Ward 8 Anthony Perruzza Ward 9 Maria Augimeri Ward 10 James Pasternak Ward 15 Josh Colle Ward 16 Karen Stintz Ward 20 Adam Vaughan Ward 22 Josh Matlow Ward 23 John Filion Ward 24 David Shiner Ward 25 Jaye Robinson Ward 26 John Parker Ward 27 Kristyn Wong -Tam Ward 28 Pam McConnell Ward 29 Mary Fragedakis Ward 30 Paula Fletcher Ward 32 Mary- Margaret McMahon Ward 33 Shelley Carroll Ward 34 Denzil Minnan -Wong Ward 35 Michelle Berardinetti Ward 37 Michael Thompson Ward 39 Mike Del Grande Ward 40 Norman Kelly Richmond Hill Mayor Dave Barrow Regional Councillor Brenda Hogg Regional Councillor Vito Spatafora Ward 2 Carmine Perrelli Ward 3 Castro Liu Ward 4 Lynn Foster Ward 5 Nick Papa Ward 6 Godwin Chan , Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti Regional Councillor Joe Li Regional Councillor Jim Jones Regional Councillor Jack Heath Regional Councillor Gordon Landon Ward 1 Valerie Burke Ward 2 Howard Shore Ward 3 Don Hamilton Ward 6 Alan Ho F54 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 November 10, 2010 Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Regional Councillor Gino Rosati Regional Councillor Michael Di Biase Regional Councillor Deb Schulte Ward 1 Marilyn lafrate Ward 3 Rosanna Defrancesca Ward 4 Sandra Yeung Racco Ward 5 Alan Shefman INFORMATION ITEM (B) COMMUNICATIONS MATERIALS AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL To provide a report on the communications materials and resources currently available to support the work of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council and to discuss the content of the new Don watershed brochure. BACKGROUND At the request of the Outreach Working Group, at Outreach meeting #3110 held on October 28, 2010, A. Thurston provided an overview of the communications materials that are currently available to DWRC members. The purpose of this communication is to summarize the material presented to Outreach (updated based on feedback received at the meeting) and obtain feedback on the Don watershed brochure. The attached list is a compilation of the most useful communication resources that are currently available to members as they contribute to the work of the DWRC. This is by no means a comprehensive catalog of resources as there are a number of organizations also producing communications pieces. The list provided includes a selection of material concerning the Don watershed or general issues impacting the Don that members would find most relevant for their work. In addition to the resources listed, members of the Outreach Working Group will be working with TRCA staff to create a Don - specific factsheet. Furthermore, TRCA are currently developing watershed specific brochures. The Highland Creek brochure will be the first of the watershed brochures to be printed. The main objective of the brochures will be to create awareness around each of the watersheds. The target audience will be watershed residents. The brochures will act as a `teaser' and will provide general information about each of the watersheds and how to get involved. They will direct readers to visit the web site for detailed information. Key information to be included in the brochure is as follows: • About the Don watershed — watershed features and state of the watershed • Conservation efforts /Call to action /Get involved /How you can help (DWRC info here) • Did you know facts • Don Watershed highlights — places of interest /projects of interest November 10, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8 /10 F55 • Don watershed map A rough framework for the brochures will be provided at the meeting for further review and discussion. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE The Don brochure will be written and designed by TRCA staff based on feedback received from the DWRC. It is anticipated that it will be available in 2011. Attachment: List of resource materials available. For information contact: Amy Thurston (x5283) Date: November 10, 2010 Resource Materials Available Don Watershed Regeneration Council, November 10, 2010 General Resources Available Publication Year Form Available Where to obtain Conservation Ontario Fact Sheets • Everyone Lives Downstream Online http://www.conservation- ontario.on.ca /resources /Brochures /E veryone_Lives_Downstream. pdf TRCA General . Living City Map Free hard copies Annual Reports Various Free hard copies & online http: / /trca.on.ca /about /annual- reports /index.dot TRCA Stewardship Fact Sheets . Beneficial Insect Free hard copies & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /58623.pdf Bird Gardens Free hard copies & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /58625.pdf Butterfly Gardens Free hard copies & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /58627.pdf Landscaping for Energy Conservation Free hard copies & online http: / /trca.on:ca /dotAsset /58629.pdf Natural Neighbours Free hard copies & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /78381.pdf Naturescaping Free hard copies & online (also available in Chinese) http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /78383.pdf Organic Lawn Care Free hard copies & online (also available in Chinese) http: / /trca.on.ca/dotAsset /36878.pdf Deer and Rabbit Resistant Plants Online http: / /trca.on.ca/dotAsset /36876.pdf Invasive Plant List Online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /36890.pdf A quick reference guide to Invasive Pant Species Free hard copies (may be a charge for large orders) Call TRCA Don watershed staff Native Plants for your Garden Free hard copies (may be a charge for large orders) & online http: / /trca.on.ca/dotAsset /90855.pdf Additional Fact sheets are in development and will be available on: rain gardens; rain barrels; downspout disconnection "Talk in a Box" kits in development and will be available on specific topics: birds; pollinators; climate change and energy conservation; wildflowers; animal adaptations; benthic invertebrates. Kits will include 3 easy activities, identification guides and props. The goal is to provide a variety of activities that would be suitable for different age groups and activities: hikes, booths, exhibits, etc. m DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 • 0102 '01. aaquaanoN Source Water Protection: Prescribed Threats Series Threat Activity #2: The establishment, operation, or maintenance of a system that collects, stores, transmits, treats, or disposes of sewage Threat Activity #15: The handling and storage of fuel Threat Activity #16: The handling and storage of a dense non - aqueous phase liquid Information `one sheets' are in development and will be available on the following threats: waste disposal sites; agricultural and non- agricultural source material applied, to land, stored, handled or managed; commercial fertilizer applied, handled or stored; pesticides applied to land, handled or stored; road salt applied, handled or stored. Don Watershed Specific Resources Available Publication Year Form Available Where to obtain Don River Watershed Plans Forty Steps to a New Don 1994 On CD, limited hard copies available & Executive Summary available online http : / /www.trca.on.ca /dotAsset/2585 8.pdf Beyond Forty Steps 2009 On CD, limited hard copies available & Executive Summary available online http: / /trca. on . ca /dotAsset /68777. pdf Beyond Forty Steps Implementation Guide 2009 On CD, limited hard copies available & online http: / /trca. on. ca /dotAsset /68775. pdf Don Watershed Report Cards & Progress Reports Turning the Corner 1997 On CD, limited hard copies available & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /25862. pdf A Time for Bold Steps 2000 On CD, limited hard copies available & online http://www.trca.on.ca/protect/waters heds /don- river /resources.dot Breathing New Life into the Don 2003 On CD, limited hard copies available & online http: / /trca. on. ca/dotAsset /25860. pdf Forging a New Deal for the Don 2006 On CD, limited hard copies available & online http: / /trca.on.ca/dotAsset /37386.pdf Don Watershed Current Conditions Reports, 2009 Geology and Groundwater Resources 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca. on. ca/dotAsset /55381. pdf Fluvial Geomorphology 2009 On CD & online http : / /trca. o n . ca /d otAs s et/55395. p df 01.0Z '01. JagwanoN DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 Aquatic System 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca/dotAsset /55393.pdf Hydrology /Hydraulics and Stormwater Management 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca/dotAsset /55383.pdf Baseflow & Water Use 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /55387.pdf Surface Water Quality 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /55391.pdf Terrestrial Natural Heritage 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /55397.pdf Land and Resource Use 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /55385.pdf Nature -based Experiences 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /55389.pdf Cultural Heritage 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca /dotAsset /55379.pdf Air Quality - Memo on Current Conditions 2009 On CD & online http: / /trca.on.ca/dotAsset /55404.pdf Walk the Don Trail Guides Lower Bartley Smith Greenway 2010 Online http: / /trca.on.ca /walkthedon Wilket Creek 2010 Online http: / /trca.on.ca/walkthedon Burke Brook 2010 Online http: / /trca.on.ca /walkthedon Lower Don 2010 Online http: / /trca.on.ca /walkthedon On the Don Newsletters All Editions Various Online http: / /trca.on.ca /protect/watersheds / don - river /resources.dot Future Resources Don watershed Brochure Don watershed PowerPoint Presentation Don watershed Fact Sheet m CD co DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 0I.03 '01. JegwanoN November 10, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8110 F59 INFORMATION ITEM (C) UPDATED DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL WORK PLAN To provide an updated work plan and status report to members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council. BACKGROUND The goals of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council are to protect, regenerate and celebrate the Don watershed and more specifically to assist Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto, TRCA partner agencies and watershed municipalities, community groups and the public to: • Achieve The Living City vision of Healthy Rivers and Shorelines, Regional Biodiversity, Sustainable Communities and Business Excellence within the Don watershed; • Implement priority recommendations of the Don River Watershed Plan, as identified in the Implementation Guide; • Implement the recommendations of the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan contained in Clean Waters, Clear Choices: Recommendations for Action (1994) and strategic directions contained in subsequent reports as they pertain to the Don watershed; • Implement strategic plans such as the Wet Weather Flow Management Master Plan (Toronto) and the Region of York's sustainability initiatives; • Implement source water protection initiatives; Meet the challenges of climate change through mitigation and adaptation initiatives; and • Secure political support at all levels of government and foster corporate partnerships to advance TRCA's vision for The Living City. In March 2010, the inaugural meeting of the 2010 -2012 term of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council (DWRC) was held. Meetings have since taken place on a monthly base. At DWRC meeting #4/10 held in June 2010, a facilitated workshop was held with members to identify potential projects and new and outstanding issues and interests of the Council members. The purpose of the session was to develop work plans and working groups for the next two to three years to implement and coordinate projects. From this meeting, four working groups were formed: Policy and Advocacy Group, Community Outreach Group, 905 /Upstream Crew and the Communications Group. Mini work plans were drafted by each group. Since this meeting, the Community Outreach Working Group and the Policy and Advocacy Working Group have met three and four times respectively. The 905 Crew have been participating in Policy and Advocacy Working Group meetings regularly and have been invited to participate in Outreach Working Group meetings as items of interest arise. The Communications Working Group held a short teleconference in September and held their first meeting in October. At that meeting, members agreed to join the Community Outreach Working Group since they have very similar interests. They decided that they would continue to work on their key activities as an ad hoc team and would receive support from, and report through the Outreach Working Group in the F60 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 November 10, 2010 future. The ad hoc Communications team also agreed to provide communications advice and support the activities of other working groups and ad hoc committees as required. The DWRC working groups have refined the focus of their activities since the initial development of their mini work plans. The individual work plans for each of the working groups have been rolled together to create one updated plan for the DWRC. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE The DWRC will continue to undertake its work through the active involvement of its members on working and /or ad hoc teams. Additional ad hoc teams will be established on an as required basis and will report through one of the existing working groups. Attachment: Updated Don Watershed Regeneration Council work plan For information contact: Amy Thurston (x5283) Date: November 03, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL WORKPI.AN 2010 -2012 it rr, ro,twn UfGIOt -V- onservation for The Livtog City DWRC VISION We envision the future Don as a revitalized urban river, flowing with life- sustaining water through regenerated natural habitats and sustainable human communities, from its headwater tributaries to the mouth of the Don River and into the receiving waters of Lake Ontario. We envision the watershed as an integral contributor to The Living City, where human settlement can flourish forever as part of nature's beauty and diversity. • Adhere to the basic principles of sound ecosystem management that recognizes the interrelationship between cultural heritage, physical characteristics, biological conditions and economic needs, and the integration of conservation, restoration and economic activities necessary for the health of the watershed. • Assist with the implementation of the Don River Watershed Plan, with a focus on addressing habitat regeneration, stewardship and outreach education, and monitoring projects, as outlined in the Don River Watershed Plan Implementation Guide. • Act as the Don watershed advocate in large projects that cross municipal boundaries and support major projects advocated for by others which will protect, regenerate and celebrate the Don watershed. DWRC MANDATE • Provide advice and comments to staff on issues affecting the Don River watershed. • Provide a forum for watershed communication by maintaining and enhancing contacts within the community. • Build capacity within the general community and support local community groups. • Work with TRCA, The Conservation Foundation and others to seek new partners and sources of funding for identified priority projects. • Participate in efforts of Waterfront Toronto with respect to the naturalization and flood protection at the mouth of the Don and related activities. • Work collaboratively with TRCA staff, and other watershed /waterfront advisory committees to develop The Living City 09/11/2010 1I0Nf1O0 NOlIW1N3O3ii G3HSbI31VM NOG Report Card which will address jurisdiction -wide issues as well as watershed specific indicators and targets. • Work collaboratively with TRCA staff, and other watershed /waterfront advisory committees to address issues of common concern such as providing input to the Toronto Area Remedial Action Plan, source protection planning and other regional policy or planning issues. • Assist TRCA in identifying potential public greenspace and work with owners to develop conservation easements, donations and bequests in accordance with TRCA's Greenlands Acquisition Project. WORKING GROUP WORKPLAN Chairs Committee Undertake key advisory and coordinating responsibilities pertaining to the agenda, work plan and activities of the DWRC. Ongoing • Act as a spokesperson for the DWRC. Ongoing • Work with'staff in setting priorities for DWRC meetings. Ongoing • Provide leadership and communication among DWRC working groups and ad hoc teams. 905 /Upstream Crew Work on issues impacting the Don watershed outside of the City of Toronto. Future • Baker Sugar Bush — support community engagement and awareness of this site; assist TRCA with various tasks including developing interpretive signage, celebration event. Future • North Maple Park — Provide input and advocacy regarding the design, use of green technology, walking and biking trails, interpretive signage, sports (Longer term initiative). 09/11/2010 -n rn O ide# lIONfOO NOIIVJ13NDO]H a3HSHDIVM NOO z 0 ID 3 0 m O N O O In progress — Event date: May 29, 2011 • Mill Pond Splash - Assist with event planning and execution (Ad hoc team formed). Ongoing • Work collaboratively with the Policy and Advocacy Working Group to provide an upstream / headwater perspective to planning and policy issues in the Don (Rutherford - Carrville EA widening — future celebrate the Don route? Development at Dunlop Observatory). Ongoing • Work collaboratively with the Community Outreach Working Group to provide an upstream / headwater perspective to awareness and engagement activities and outreach initiatives. Ongoing • Work with other organizations such as the York Region Environmental Alliance to get people involved in protecting the headwaters. Delayed • Schools —train the trainer, train school ambassadors to speak with peers about environmental issues. Help youth comprehend the value of water by understanding what happens when runoff becomes contaminated. Community Outreach Working Group Create awareness and engagement. In Progress • Resource materials — Assist staff with the development of materials, resources and tools and link people to existing information. Phase 1 —Due by end of Nov 2010 Phase 2 — In Progress • Walk the Don Trail Guides — Complete phase 1, begin phase 2 (ad hoc team formed). Ongoing • Other tours and guided walks — Participate in, and as requested, review and provide advice and comments on other organizations tours and guided walks in the Don. Ongoing • Stewardship projects - Support and participate in TRCA and other organizations stewardship projects, events and programs related to the Don watershed. 09/11/2010 Z 0 0 3 cr 0 0 N DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8 0 m rn In Progress • Watercourse identification signs - Provide advice and comment. In Progress • Task Force to Bring Back the Don's Don Valley Trails (DVT) Initiative — participate as required (Ad hoc team formed). In Progress — Event date: May 1, 2011 • Paddle the Don - assist TRCA staff with the planning, fundraising activities and event execution. Ongoing • Raise public awareness and create environmental appreciation of the Don by providing walks, talks and presentations. Communications Ad Hoc Team: To increase awareness and understanding of key issues of the Don watershed. In progress - • Social Media — Create a blog, Facebook and Twitter account for the Don. Ongoing — Next Edition Winter2011. • Assist staff with the development of material for and the content of the On the Don e- Newsletter. Ongoing • Provide communications support to other DWRC working groups. Future — Due in 2012 • Assist with the planning of a big event to celebrate the Don watershed (planned for end of term). Future — Due by end of 2010 • Develop a communications plan for the DWRC. Future — Due in Winter 2011 • Provide input and work with TRCA to develop and write web site content. Living City Report Card Ad Hoc Team Work with other watershed groups to develop a regional scale report card. In progress • Attend meetings and provide advice and recommendations to support the development of The Living City Report Card which will address jurisdiction -wide issues as well as watershed specific indicators and targets. Policy and Advocacy Working Group To identify, analyze, evaluate and respond to various issues, policies and legislation that could potentially impact the Don Watershed. 09/11/2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8 Ongoing • Advise TRCA staff on emerging environmental issues. Ongoing • Work as a committee or with other TRCA watershed /waterfront groups such as the Etobicoke - Mimico Creeks Coalition and the Humber Watershed Alliance to review, comment and advocate on jurisdiction -wide planning and policy issues related to the protection of the Don watershed. In progress Future /Watching brief/ Delayed • Cleaning up our Waterways (Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Plan), Toronto. • Official Plan review - various municipalities in the Don watershed (Work with 905 /Upstream Crew). • TRCA policy review. • Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood - Protection Project and Lower Don Lands Plan. • Environmental Commissioner of Ontario 2009/2010 Annual Report. • Environmental Reporting and Disclosure By -Law, Toronto. • Greenprint Sustainability Plan, Markham. • Parks Management Plan Update, Toronto. • Advocacy on maintenance of Oil Grit Separators. • Rizmi- Milani property and McGill ESA, Vaughan (work with 905 /Upstream Crew). • TRCA policy review (2011). • Smart Growth /Building Design. Completed • Water Opportunities and Conservation Act. • Mayoral Campaign & Environmental Debate Questions (work with 905 /Upstream Crew). 09/11/2010 010E '01. aagwanoN DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 F66 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 November 10, 2010 RES. #F42/10- Moved by: Seconded be: SUBCOMMITTEE MINUTES The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Moyra Haney Jonathan Veale THAT the following minutes and verbal updates be received CARRIED • Communications Group #1/10 (Tuesday, October 19, 2010) • W. Sainsbury informed the DWRC that the Communications Group has joined with the Community Outreach Group. • W. Sainsbury informed the DWRC that the Communications Group is working on implementing a Social Media strategy and would like to begin planning a large event to coincide with the 20th anniversary of Paddle the Don. • Community Outreach Group #3/10 (Thursday, October 28, 2010) • J. Hough informed the DWRC that the 'On the Don' Newsletter has been delayed. • Policy and Advocacy Group #4/10 (Wednesday, October 27, 2010) • C. Longhurst updated the DWRC on several recent activities of the Policy and Advocacy Group, including the preparation of comments in response to the recent Environmental Commissioner's Report and the completion of the City of Toronto's Environmental Reporting and Disclosure By -Law (ChemTRAC) survey. • C. Longhurst advised that she attended the Standing Committee on General Government public hearing on the Water Opportunities and Water Conservation Act held October 18, 2010 and presented the letter submitted by the Don Watershed Regeneration Council earlier in the fall. • T. Hopkins provided an overview of the draft letter for submission to the Ministry of the Environment on behalf of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council in regards to Oil-Grit Separators (OGS's). UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Update from the Sherwood Park Advisory Committee J. Palmer advised that despite recent weather, volunteers are still working in the park. November 10, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 F67 SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS The final Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of the year 2010 (meeting #9/10), will be held Thursday, December 9, 2010 at the North York Civic Centre in Committee Room 4. The proposed 2011 schedule of meeting dates was accepted. A. Wood to book meeting rooms and provide an updated meeting list to the DWRC at meeting #9110. NEW BUSINESS Markham's Sustainability Plan, the "Greenprint" A. Freeman advised the DWRC the M. Buchinger is preparing a submission to the Town of Markham in response to the Draft Sustainability Plan, also known as the Markham "Greenprint." A. Freeman suggested that members of the 905 Group and Policy and Advocacy Group review and provide comments on the letter prior to submission. A. Wood to circulate the draft letter to members of the 905 Group and Policy and Advocacy Group for comment. New Metrolinx Commuter Train Line J. Routh informed the DWRC that Metrolinx has proposed to build a GO Station at the intersection of Highway 7 and the West Don River. J. Routh advised that a Blanding's turtle has been identified on this site by the community group Save Concord West and suggested that the Don Watershed Regeneration Council become involved in order to help ensure that a thorough Environmental Assessment (EA) is completed. A. Freeman advised that Toronto and Region Conservation staff will investigate further and report back to the DWRC. A Guide to Road Ecology in Ontario M. Karch provided information on The Ontario Road Ecology Group's recently published "Guide to Road Ecology in Ontario." The book is a user friendly guide suitable for both the general public and professionals which looks at the impact of roads on biodiversity. M. Karch will provide copies of the book for interested Don Council members at meeting #9/10. Pepsi Refresh Program C. Longhurst informed the DWRC of the "Pepsi Refresh" funding program which runs every two months. C. Longhurst asked the DWRC to support the Summerhill Foundation project to clean up toxic waste in Nunavut. C. Longhurst also suggested that the Pepsi Refresh program may be a great opportunity for the Don Council to solicit funds for a project within the Don. A. Wood to forward information on the Pepsi Refresh Program to DWRC members. Unveiling of the Brick Works Watershed Wall A. MacLeod invited DWRC members to attend the unveiling of the Brick Works new Watershed Wall on Wednesday, December 1, 2010. A. Freeman will be attending as a guest of honour, . having the distinction of being the first to release water onto the watershed wall. F68 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 November 10, 2010 TERMINATION On motion, the meeting terminated at 8:53 pm, November 10, 2010. Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /AW. TORONTO AND REGION ,- onserva t :on for The Living City theDon MINUTES OF THE DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #9/10 December 9, 2010 Page F69 The Don Watershed Regeneration Council met at The North York Civic Center on Thursday December 9, 2010. Peter Heinz, Vice - Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council, called the meeting to order at 6:25 pm. PRESENT Joe Agg Member Bryan Bertie Member Margaret Buchinger Member Phil Goodwin Chair Moyra Haney Member Peter Heinz Vice -Chair Tom Hopkins Member Mandy Karch Member Jae Hong Kim Member Celeste Longhurst Member Annie MacLeod Member Gloria Marsh Member Margaret McRae Member Dianne Ness Member Janice Palmer Member John Routh Member Whelena Sainsbury Member Andy Wickens Member REGRETS Margaret Bream Member Nadia Fetisova Member Tim Hayward Member John Hough Member Wessel Lammers Member Jana Levison Member Laud Matos Member Reiko Obokata Member Jonathan Veale Member STAFF Adele Freeman Director, Watershed Management Division David Love Executive Director, Conservation Foundation Amy Thurston Project Manager, Watershed Planning Alexis Wood Coordinator Public Programs, Don /Highland Watershed F70 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #9/10 December 9, 2010 WELCOMING REMARKS P. Heinz, Vice - Chair, welcomed everyone to the ninth and final Don Watershed Regeneration Council meeting of 2010. The floor was turned over to G. Marsh, Executive Director, York Region Environmental Alliance, to begin a presentation entitled "Shop like the Planet's watching." PRESENTATIONS Shop like the Planet's watching G. Marsh, Executive Director, York Region Environmental Alliance, made a presentation on the simple and effective ways to modify your shopping behaviour to help the environment. The presentation focused on the following: • Product labelling • Industry greenwashing • Paper and clothing products • The use of bottled water, batteries and lighting The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto D. Love, Executive Director, The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto, spoke to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council about the Conservation Foundation, the fundraising arm of Toronto and Region Conservation. D. Love discussed fundraising, the opportunity to showcase the Don watershed and Paddle the Don at the Green Living Show (to be held April 15 -17, 2011), and suggested the possibility of developing a full colour direct mail publication to promote the Don watershed to local residents. D. Love also confirmed ManuLife Financial as the title sponsor of Paddle the Don for the next three years. D. Ness and C. Longhurst suggested TELUS and the Royal Bank Blue Water Project as potential sponsors for a direct mail promotion. RES. #F43/10- MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: Moyra Haney Janice Palmer THAT the minutes of meeting #8/10 held on November 10, 2010, be approved CARRIED November 10, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 F71 RES. #F44/10 - CORRESPONDENCE & INFORMATION ITEMS Moved by: Seconded by: Andy Wickens Joe Agg THAT the following correspondence and information items be received CARRIED CORRESPONDENCE INCOMING • Letter from Ken Petersen, Manager, Legislation and Research Section, Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council - November 10, 2010, re: Provincial Policy (2005) Review. OUTGOING • Letter to Raj Mohabeer, Sustainability Office, Town of Markham, from Phil Goodwin, Chair, Don Watershed Regeneration Council - December 1, 2010, re: Town of Markham's Sustainability Plan ("Greenprint") Review. ITEM FOR DISCUSSION RES. #F45/10- Moved by: Seconded by: John Routh Dianne Ness THAT the following item for discussion and verbal update be received CARRIED • Communication strategy for introducing the Don's issues'to all Don watershed municipal councillors. • T. Hopkins provided a verbal update to the DWRC. A general letter will be sent within the next week to congratulate the municipal councillors in the Don watershed on their election to council. Letter will ask councillors to hold the date. for Paddle the Don 2011 (and Mill Pond Splash 2011 for Richmond Hill councillors). T. Hopkins to draft the letter. • A. Freeman suggested a DWRC member may want to attend the municipal council budget meeting and present a simple statement concerning Toronto's parks and natural environment. • Next steps (to take place in the New Year) will involve the creation of a series of talking points for use when meeting with councillors. • The Elections Ad Hoc Working Group will provide a second update at the February 2011 DWRC meeting. F72 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #9/10 December 9, 2010 RES. #F46/10- Moved by: Seconded be: SUBCOMMITTEE MINUTES The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Mandy Karch Margaret McRae THAT the following minutes and verbal updates be received with amendments CARRIED • Policy and Advocacy Group #5/10 (Wednesday, November 24, 2010) • C. Longhurst advised that B. Bertie and herself will be meeting with Suzanne Barrett, Chair, Etobicoke - Mimico Coalition, to discuss drafting a joint response to the ECO report. • Community Outreach Group # 4/10 (Thursday, November 25, 2010) • J. Palmer requested that the following change be made to the Section 9 (Big Event): "J. Palmer explained that a past black tie event had limited success due to high costs and time demands." UPDATES FROM OTHER WATERSHED GROUPS Update from the East Don Partners P. Goodwin advised that he completed a successful walk of the Thornhill Golf course. Thornhill Golf Course are currently Audubon Certified, but are eager to implement green initiatives beyond those required for the Audubon Certification. P. Goodwin mentioned there are opportunities for Pollinator Plant Gardens, native tree and wildflower plantings. Update from the Toronto Harbour Liaison M. Haney advised that the Toronto Port Authority will be celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2011 and that there may be an opportunity to tie this in with Paddle the Don. M. Haney advised that George Brown College will be moving into the Corus Building at Sugar Beach (off Queen's Quay). RES. #F47/10- Moved by: Seconded be: SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS The proposed 2011 meeting schedule for the Don Watershed Regeneration Council and Working Groups. Whelena Sainsbury Peter Heinz THAT the proposed meeting schedule be received with amendments CARRIED A. Thurston suggested that the meeting location be moved from Committee Room #1 to Committee Room #3. A. Wood to follow -up with the North York Civic Centre. November 10, 2010 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #8/10 F73 P. Goodwin advised that the Stewardship Forum will be held the morning of February 26, 2011 and the Quest for Chowder will be held the afternoon of February 26, 2011 (at Rodney's Oyster House). A. Freeman suggested inviting David Crombie to speak at the Quest for Chowder event. NEW BUSINESS EUROLIGHT Exhibit M. Haney notified the DWRC that beginning December 3, 2010 Eurolite's "Gallery of Lights" showroom will be transformed into a gallery of Art and Light. The work of 7 Canadian artists will be showcased: Tyler Clark Burke, Edward Burtynsky, Alex McLeod, Kelly Richardson, Barbara Steinman, Alex Vandenberg and Laurel Woodcock. January 2011 DWRC Meeting A. Thurston advised that David Trieu will attend the January 2011 DWRC meeting and make a presentation on the City of Toronto Environmental Monitoring and Protection Group's role in spills management. A speaker is also being arranged to provide and update on Toronto's role in spills management. A. Freeman will also provide information regarding the TRCA's role in spills management. Living City Report Card M. Karch advised that the December 1, 2010 meeting for the Living City Report Card was cancelled, but she has reviewed the material and submitted comments to Sonya Dhir. Pepsi Refresh Program C. Longhurst would like to move forward with developing a funding proposal for the Pepsi Refresh Program. A. Freeman advised C. Longhurst to contact David Love to discuss the funding opportunity further. Toronto Wildlife Service P. Goodwin advised that the Toronto Wildlife Service has applied for funding through the AVIVA Fund to help care for 500 birds next summer. DMNP EA Submission C. Longhurst requested an update on the progress of the Don Mouth Naturalization Project Environmental Assessment (DMNP EA). A. Freeman advised that that EA will be submitted December 10, 2010 and will be available for Public Comment from December 17, 2010 to February 11, 2011. C. Longhurst to prepare letter of support by January 1, 2011. Yammer P. Heinz advised that Yammer's layout differs from PC platforms to MAC platforms. P. Heinz recommended DWRC members using MAC platforms login to yammer using the following website address: www.yammer.com /doncouncil A. Wood to forward address to Community Outreach Group members. F74 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL #9/10 December 9, 2010 TERMINATION On motion, the meeting terminated at 8:30 p.m., December 9, 2010. Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Chief Administrative Officer /AW.