Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutHumber Watershed Alliance 2010t‘. THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 Page G1 March 9, 2010 The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, March 9, 2010. Richard Whitehead, Acting Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. PRESENT Arshad Ali Member Mary Louise Ashbourne Member Jim Bradley Member Sharon Bradley Member Heather Broadbent Member Dianne Douglas Member Bert Duclos Member Jerry Gorman Member Alyson Hazlett Member Gaspar Horvath Member Robert HuIley Member Bill Humber Member David Hutcheon Member Barb Imrie Member Jonathan Kowba Member Victoria Kramkowski -Epner Member Peter Lazarakis Member Lisette Mallet Member Mike Mattos Member Madeleine McDowell Member Peter Mitchell Member Gerri Lynn O'Connor Chair, TRCA Sid Preece Member Lynda Rogers Member Deb Schulte Member Mary Serniak Member Lynn Short Member Jason Stabler Member Peter Telford Member Jane Underhill Member Joy Webster Member Barry Westhead Member Richard Whitehead Member G2 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 Bill Wilson Member Jessica Wright Member GUESTS Garry Doyle Toronto Transit Commission Paul Gardner City of Vaughan Susan Horvath Black Creek Conservation Project Joanna Kervin Toronto Transit Commission Leilani Lee -Yates Regional Municipality of Peel Barb Scott Black Creek Conservation Project Judith Witzig Toronto Transit Commission/Toronto -York Spadina Subway Extension Janet Wong Regional Municipality of Peel STAFF Sonia Dhir Project Manager, Humber Joanne Jeffery Manager, Stewardship and Outreach Education Steve Joudrey Land Management Technician Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber David Love Executive Director, Conservation Foundation Laura Richards Environmental Assessment Planner Stephen Roberts Project Manager, Special Events and Fundraising Clara Stewart- Robertson Watershed Resources Planner, Humber Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber Beth Williston Manager, Environmental Assessment WELCOMING REMARKS Gerri Lynn O'Connor, Chair of Toronto and Region Conservation, welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked them for their commitment and interest in participating on the Humber Watershed Alliance. PRESENTATIONS (a) Climate Change Strategy for the Geographic Region of Peel Leilani Lee -Yates made a presentation on Peel's Climate Change Strategy. The presentation focussed on the following: • directions for climate change; • objectives of Peel - CA Service Strategy Business Plan; • scope of work for the strategy; • overview of workplan and background research; • global climate change projections, effects on Southern Ontario and natural heritage; • possible adaptation and mitigration strategies; • next steps. March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1 /10 G3 (b) Toronto -York Spadina Subway Extension Garry Doyle made a presentation on the Hwy. 407 station Toronto -York Spadina Subway Extension. The presentation focussed on the following: • Hydro Tower 158 avoidance - Environmental Assessment Amendment; Hwy. 407 Station Design. RES. #G1 /10- Moved by: Seconded by: CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGY FOR THE GEOGRAPHIC REGION OF PEEL To brief members on the Climate Change Strategy for the Geographic Region of Peel. Deb Schulte Heather Broadbent THAT the presentation given by the Regional Municipality of Peel and the staff report on the Climate Change St rategy for the Geographic Region of Peel be received for information CARRIED BACKGROUND The City of Brampton, Town of Caledon, Credit Valley Conservation Authority (CVC), City of Mississauga, Region of Peel, and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) have come together to develop a Climate Change Strategy for the Geographic Region of Peel. Each of the partners recognizes the need to address climate change and have all established high level direction within their respective strategic plans or similar documents (i.e. Environmental Plans), highlighting the importance of addressing climate change impacts. The development and implementation of the Climate Change Strategy will be a shared responsibility between the partners and the broader community of Peel. The Climate Change Strategy will establish a strategic framework that will guide the six partners to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. In early 2009, a steering committee was formed to help develop the terms of reference for the plan. The partners recognize the urgency of (1) acknowledging and exploring the potential impacts of climate change on a local level; (2) developing mitigation strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and (3) crafting adaptation strategies to protect communities from the various risks posed by climate change, as well as prepare them for the potential opportunities. The strategy will address the key sectors potentially affected by, or contributing to, climate change in Peel Region including, but limited to: public infrastructure, energy, transportation, emergency management, natural heritage, agriculture, public health, buildings and manufacturing. The final strategy will help partners to focus their current work and to clearly identify roles and responsibilities for future actions. Implementation of the strategy will be a shared responsibility that will be carried out as agreed to by the partners. G4 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 The strategy planning process contains four major tasks, each with distinct sub - tasks: Task 1: Background Research Task 2: Establishing the Plan Task 3: Preparing the Draft Plan Task 4: Finalizing the Plan October 2009 to January 2010 December 2009 to March 2010 March to June 2010 June to July 2010 A Project Team and Steering Committee (with staff from each of the partner agencies) have been established to guide the process. A consulting team (DPRA, ENVIRON and Beacon Environmental) has also been hired to assist with project management, research and writing. RES. #G2/10- TORONTO -YORK SPADINA SUBWAY EXTENSION To brief members on the Toronto -York Spadina Subway extension. Moved by: Seconded by: Dianne Douglas David Hutcheon THAT the presentation and staff report on the Toronto -York Spadina Subway Extension be received for information CARRIED BACKGROUND The Toronto -York Spadina Subway Extension (TYSSE) project will provide a critical extension of the existing Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) subway across the municipal boundary between the City of Toronto and the Regional Municipality of York. The TYSSE project is jointly funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario, York Region and the City of Toronto. The project is an 8.6 kilometre extension of the existing Yonge - University - Spadina subway from its present terminus at Downsview Station to the future Vaughan Metropolitan Centre in York Region. It will have six stations along the route, currently named; Sheppard West Station, on Parc Downsview Park lands; Finch West Station located at Finch Ave and Keele St; York University Station, in the heart of the campus; Steeles West Station, across Steeles Ave West at Northwest Gate; Highway 407 Station, located south of Highway 407, west of Jane St; Vaughan Corporate Centre Station, at Highway 7 west of Jane St. When complete, at the end of 2015, the TTC will own, operate and maintain the subway extension. York Region will own and operate some surface facilities within their municipality. It will be owned by both municipalities, but managed and operated by TTC. March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G5 The Environmental Assessment (EA) for this portion of the project north of Steeles Avenue was completed in 2006 by York Region, with extensive public and agency consultation and input during the EA study. In April 2008, the Minister of the Environment approved a change in technology and alignment, changing from buses to subway for the alignment from the Steeles West Station north to the Vaughan Corporate Center Station. A portion of this alignment is currently the subject of an amendment to its underlying EA. The subway route begins at the Downsview Station, runs north up Keele Street with a stop at Finch Avenue West, crosses through York University with appropriate stations, crosses Steeles with a station near Jane Street, crosses Jane Street with a station at the 407, and terminates at Highway 7 and Highway 400 with final station near the current location of the WalMart store. The project is currently in the detailed design phase. As the project engineers initiated the design of the Highway 407 Station and tunnel progressed, Hydro, One advised the project that the Iocationing of the tunnel beneath the existing 500 kkwV Tower (Tower 158), as approved in 2008 EA study, was not acceptable for safety reasons. The project is therefore required to amend the EA in this location to show a revised tunnel alignment. Beginning in the Fall of 2008, TYSSE initiated detailed environmental and engineering studies to shape and detail the proposed realignment. The resulting proposal has been discussed in a number of workshops with TRCA, Hydro One and CN Railroad as the design has evolved. Numerous technical studies were undertaken during the study of alternative tunnel /station alignments and the resulting realignment of Black Creek. In order to ensure track safety and to address existing infrastructure (road, highway, sewer, hydro), the re- alignment of the tunnel and station requires realignment of the Black Creek channel and valley system including fluvial geomorphology analysis, aquatic habitat studies, flood analysis and water quality monitoring. The proposed realignment has been designed to ensure that the subway design is safe and meets design standards, and to address existing infrastructure challenges (road, highway, sewer, hydro). The revised tunnel alignment results in a shift of 34 metres to the east in the station location. It is the shift of the tunnel and station that requires realignment of the Black Creek channel and surrounding valley. The proposed changes to Black Creek and the terrestrial habitat surrounding it are part of the effects discussed in the formal Tower 158 EA addendum. This addendum must be approved by the Minister of Environment. Public input to this proposed amendment is currently being sought by TYSSE, prior to filing the report with the ministry. TRCA senior and technical staff has reviewed the proposal, and is supportive of the proposed changes to the Black Creek channel and valley for the design and safety reasons given. TRCA is working with the project to ensure that the relocated creek channel and changes to the valley meet TRCA requirements for the management of valley and stream corridors, groundwater, and terrestrial and aquatic systems,including stormwater management. TRCA will review and approve the detailed design through its regulatory process; will work with the Ministry of Natural Resources to ensure that permitting requirements under the Endangered Species Act are satisfied; and will work with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to ensure that the requirements. of the Fisheries Act are satisfied. G6 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 RES. #G3 /10- Moved by: Seconded by: TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE To introduce members to the Terms of Reference for the Humber Watershed Alliance. David Hutcheon Heather Broadbent THAT the Terms of Reference for the Humber Watershed Alliance, dated November, 2009, be received CARRIED BACKGROUND On December 20, 1997, the Authority approved the Humber Watershed Management Strategy and companion document titled: Legacy: A Strategy for a Healthy Humber and A Call to Action - Implementing Legacy: A Strategy for a Healthy Humber. Objective 25 of Legacy states: "Create a Humber Watershed Alliance to facilitate implementation of the Humber Watershed Strategy. Model the Alliance after the Humber Watershed Task Force, with representation from residents, interest groups, agencies and elected officials." In December, 1997, the Authority adopted resolution #A98/97 establishing the goals, membership, organization and terms of reference for the first Humber Watershed Alliance. Since 1997, the Humber Watershed Alliance has completed four terms. Their general mandate is to respond to the Humber Challenge (below) and follow the guiding principles set out in Legacy. The same guiding framework is in the updated watershed management plan titled Pathways to a Healthy Humber. Humber Challenge: To protect and enhance the Humber River watershed as a vital and healthy ecosystem where we live, work and play in harmony with the natural environment. During the previous terms of the Alliance, significant accomplishments were made including: • The designation of the Humber as a Canadian Heritage River; • Development of urban agricultural initiatives on TRCA lands; • Publication of a book to celebrate the Canadian Heritage Rivers designation; • Development of two Report Cards which examine the health of the Humber River watershed; • Construction of fishways to restore migratory fish populations; • Construction of pedestrian trails and bridges; • Habitat restoration including reforestation and wetland creation; • Community events to celebrate accomplishments and acknowledge partners; • Heritage appreciation through hikes, monuments and building restoration; and March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G7 • Promotional materials such as brochures, posters and e- bulletins. The Terms of Reference for our watershed subcommittees have proven to be a valuable mechanism to convey to the watershed subcommittee members and potential members the purpose of the subcommittees and the expectations of TRCA. At the end of each term, the Terms of Reference are reviewed by staff, following consultation with the watershed subcommittees and others, to refine the Terms of Reference for the next time period. The following changes have been incorporated in the attached Terms of Reference for the Humber Watershed Alliance: • The Terms of Reference are valid for three years (2010- 2012). At the end of the second year, membership may be renewed for one year, as approved by the Authority. • Alignment with TRCA's vision for The Living City and strategic plan, including the importance of climate change mitigation and adaption as important elements of watershed management, and the promotion of sustainable communities and a culture of conservation (e.g. energy and water conservation, near urban agriculture). • The transition from individual watershed report cards to the development of The Living City Report Card, which will address jurisdiction -wide issues as well as individual watershed indicators and targets. • Potential to provide a number of forums /opportunities for the members to work collaboratively with members of other watershed subcommittees, agencies or groups regarding TRCA jurisdiction -wide issues. FUTURE BENEFITS The Humber Watershed Alliance will benefit the TRCA by assisting with the following actions: • maintaining and enhancing contacts within the community regarding watershed management issues; • building capacity within the general community to deliver watershed management products and services; • advocating the values of the Humber River watershed; • providing a framework for meaningful community involvement in watershed management; • acting as a united voice for addressing issues relevant to the municipal, provincial and federal governments; • providing leadership in watershed management; • contributing a level of service that addresses regional needs and opportunities; • supporting the Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto and the delivery of the Living City Campaign. G8 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 FINANCIAL DETAILS The development and implementation of watershed strategies is a core deliverable of the TRCA. Funding support is available from TRCA's capital and operating budgets and from the Conservation Foundation through the Living City Campaign. Staff and the Alliance members will seek additional funds from external sources to support the work of the Humber Watershed Alliance. RES. #G4/10- Moved by: Seconded by: SUBCOMMITTEE STRUCTURE OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE Establishing the subcommittee structure of the Humber Watershed Alliance. Madeleine McDowell Robert Hulley THAT the following subcommittee structure for the Humber Watershed Alliance, 2010- 2012, be adopted CARRIED Bolton /Nashville Management Plan Subcommittee Members of this subcommittee will be involved in the following initiatives: • Assist with the identification of outstanding project issues and suggest appropriate ways of resolving them; • Provide background and monitoring information; • Ensure that appropriate staff and members at their respective municipality /agency /association are adequately informed; • Provide comments, advice and suggestions throughout the development of the plan; • Assist with plan implementation. Boyd /East Humber Subcommittee Members of this subcommittee will be involved in the following initiatives: Kortright. The Living City Campus. Urban Agriculture. Reconstructing the Pioneer Barn that is stored on the Kortright property; Completing the William Granger Greenway into Boyd Park; Maintaining Foster Woods and the Zink to the William Granger Greenway; Creation of the Pierre and Janet Berton Trail in Boyd; Eliminating unwanted bike traffic, paint balling etc. from Boyd Park. Proper closing of the "right of way" at both ends; Creating a site for an Aboriginal Museum - possibly at the old TRCA Nursery office, opposite the Pierre Berton Resource Library; Maintaining the information boxes at the William Granger Greenway; Creating the trail from Boyd Park to Pine Grove. March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G9 Claireville Subcommittee The Claireville Subcommittee will assist TRCA with the planning and implementation of activities that are consistent with the goals, objectives, policies and guidelines of the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan. The Claireville Subcommittee will: (a) Assist with the development and implementation of specific environmental restoration, heritage and public use activities including, but not limited to, the following activities: • • • • • Natural heritage management (ie. habitat restoration, reforestation, wetland enhancement); Public access and parking; Siting and installation of pedestrian trails; Property maintenance including fencing and litter clean up; Planning for "dogs off leash" areas; Organization of a fishing derby event; Interpretive signage. (b) Promote and assist with the establishment of partnerships that will advance the implementation of the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan and improve the health of the Humber River Watershed; (c) Foster communication and education on Claireville Conservation Area issues, projects and initiatives through public meetings, workshops, displays, publications and community -based special events; (d) Assist in obtaining financial and in -kind resources to implement natural heritage, human heritage and public use projects; (e) Assist with monitoring activities to determine: The effectiveness of habitat management activities; Information on flora and fauna; Public use impacts; Future management requirements. G10 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 Black Creek Subcommittee Members of this subcommittee will be involved in the following projects: Scoping needs and opportunities for habitat restoration, public use, heritage appreciation and sustainable community activities including energy conservation, water conservation and urban agriculture; Promote and assist with the establishment of partnerships that will advance the implementation of the Downsview Dells Community Action Site and improve the health of the Humber River Watershed; Foster communication and education on Downsview Dells Community Action Site issues, projects and initiatives through public meetings, workshops, displays, publications and community -based special events; Assist in obtaining financial and in -kind resources to implement natural heritage, human heritage and public use projects; Assist with monitoring activities to determine: The effectiveness of habitat management activities; Information on flora'and fauna; Public use impacts; Future management requirements. Heritage Subcommittee Members of this subcommittee will be involved in the following projects: Finalize the heritage bridge inventory; Plan and implement cultural and heritage initiatives to complement the Canadian Heritage Rivers designation for the Humber; Assist in the organization of events celebrating the Humber's designation as a Canadian Heritage River; Assist with the planning and implementation of heritage - themed interpretative trails /guided walks; Assist in the creation of a map highlighting areas with heritage significance; Investigate opportunities to increase awareness of the Humber River Watershed as the "Carrying Place Trail." March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G11 Oak Ridges Corridor Park Subcommittee Members of this subcommittee will be involved in the following initiatives: • Assist with the development of the Oak Ridges Corridor Park Management Plan; • Establish priorities and objectives for the first five years; • Review annual management prescriptions; • Identify roles and responsibilities of partner agencies and organizations such as Town of Richmond Hill, York Region, Ministry of Natural Resources, Oak Ridges Trail Association, and Richmond Hill Naturalists; • Establish subcommittees to guide activities (ie. financial /fundraising, education /outreach, built heritage, restoration, monitoring, trails), as required; • Assist with the development of an educational and community outreach program in conjunction with the Town of Richmond Hill; • Assist with securing heritage structures and investigate their future use and maintenance requirement; • Assist with the development of natural environment /monitoring activities; • Provide input into the environmental audit of the golf course with an objective to achieving Audobon certification; • Seek funding to support the implementation of the management plan. Planning and Policy Subcommittee Members of this subcommittee will meet only on an `as required' basis and will work collaboratively with TRCA staff and other TRCA watershed /waterfront committees such as the Don Watershed Regeneration Council and the Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition to: • Review and comment on federal, provincial and municipal planning and policy documents, position papers and other strategic documents related to the protection and restoration of the Humber watershed. Report Card Subcommittee Members of this subcommittee will be helping to develop a consolidated regional scale report card to effectively communicate conditions in accordance with the Living City vision for the TRCA jurisdiction which includes the City of Toronto and part of the Regions of Peel, York and Durham, Town of Mono and Township of Adjala - Tosorontio. This will involve: • Refining the scope of the project; • Defining indicators and measures; • Assisting with data collection and analysis; • Writing content; • Developing rating criteria, if applicable; • Assisting with assigning grades /trends to indicators, if applicable; • Reviewing the report and editing; • Promoting the final product. G12 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 BACKGROUND The approved Terms of Reference for the Humber Watershed Alliance, dated November, 2009, state that: • The Humber Watershed Alliance will undertake its work through the active involvement of its members on at least one subcommittee, community action site or stewardship group; • Subcommittees will be established on an `as required' basis and will be dissolved when their work is substantially complete. These subcommittees will be established to deal with specific actions or projects as determined by the Humber Alliance and TRCA staff; • Community action sites and stewardship groups may be active even after the Humber Alliance has completed its term; • A subcommittee Chair and Vice -Chair will be appointed for each subcommittee; • The subcommittee Chair and Vice -Chair shall be a member of the Alliance; • Subcommittee Chairs shall report to the Alliance on a regular basis. Subcommittees will meet regularly, usually monthly, except for those months when the full membership meets which is quarterly. The Chair of each subcommittee, with input from the other members, will confirm their meeting schedule. RES. #G5110- Moved by: Seconded by: SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE Establishing the membership of each Humber Watershed Alliance subcommittee. Madeleine McDowell Gaspar Horvath THAT the following subcommittee membership for the Humber Watershed Alliance, 2010- 2012, be adopted CARRIED BLACK CREEK SUBCOMMITTEE Gaspar Horvath Jonathan Kowba Peter Lazarakus • Mary Serniak Jessica Wright March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1 /10 G13 BOLTON /NASHVILLE MANAGEMENT PLAN SUBCOMMITTEE Heather Broadbent Nick deBoer Jerry Gorman Barb Imrie Emil Kolb Peter Swain Joy Webster Richard Whitehead Bill Wilson BOYD /EAST HUMBER SUBCOMMITTEE lain Craig Paul Gardner Ron Hingston Joanne Nonnekes Sid Preece Lynda Rogers Gino Rosati Deb Schulte Barry Westhead G14 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 CLAIREVILLE SUBCOMMITTEE Arshad Ali Dianne Douglas Robert Glover Suzan Hall Alyson Hazlett Michael Hoy Mike Mattos Lynn Short HERITAGE SUBCOMMITTEE Mary Louise Ashbourne Heather Broadbent Bert Duclos Bob Hulley Lisette Mallet Madeleine McDowell OAK RIDGES CORRIDOR PARK SUBCOMMITTEE Greg Beros Jim Bradley Sharon Bradley Lisa Turnbull Jane Underhill March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G15 PLANNING AND POLICY SUBCOMMITTEE Victoria Kramkowski -Epner Mike Mattos Madeleine McDowell John Parker Gord Perks Peter Telford REPORT CARD SUBCOMMITTEE Mark Chambers Bill Humber David Hutcheon Victoria Kramkowski -Epner Peter Mitchell Jason Stabler Lisa Turnbull Bill Wilson G16 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 BACKGROUND Section 6 of the approved Terms of Reference for the Humber Watershed Alliance states that: Members will contribute to the work of the Humber Watershed Alliance, prepare effectively for, and participate in, at least one subcommittee, community action site or stewardship group. Based on the interests that each member expressed the following subcommittees are suggested: Bolton /Nashville Management Plan Subcommittee Boyd /East Humber Subcommittee Claireville Subcommittee Downsview Dells Community Action Site Subcommittee Heritage Subcommittee Oak Ridges Corridor Park Subcommittee Planning and Policy Subcommittee Report Card Subcommittee Each member has been tentatively assigned to one subcommittee. Members are asked to review the membership proposed for each subcommittee and if a change is required, staff will accommodate the request. Members can participate in more than one subcommittee should they wish to do so. Please advise Lia Lappano if this is the case. In Tight of the fact that we will be developing a region -wide report card which will include all watersheds within TRCA's jurisdiction, the Report Card Subcommittee members will work in conjunction with members of other watershed groups such as the Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition and the Don Regeneration Council. Each subcommittee will appoint and Chair and Vice -Chair from amongst its members. It is their responsibility, with input from the other members, to confirm their meeting schedule and report to the Alliance on their progress on a regular basis. Members are reminded that they are required to attend regular evening meetings of the whole Humber Watershed Alliance approximately four times annually in addition to subcommittee meetings to be held approximately six times per year. Members who are unable to fulfill their commitments will be replaced by the Authority after missing three consecutive meetings without notice. March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G17 RES #G6/10- LIVING CITY REPORT CARD To outline the nature of the Living City Report Card and associated work plan. Moved by: Seconded by: David Hutcheon Jane Underhill THAT the following Humber Watershed Alliance members participate in the development of The Living City Report Card: Mark Chambers; Bill Humber; David Hutcheon; Victoria Kramkowski - Epner; Peter Mitchell; Jason Stabler; Lisa Turnbull and Bill Wilson; THAT a member of the Don Regeneration Council and the Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition be requested to participate in the Living City Report Card Subcommittee; AND FURTHER THAT the staff report regarding the Living City Report Card be received for information CARRIED BACKGROUND Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA), in collaboration with its municipal partners and stakeholders is preparing The Living City Report Card on the state of community health within its jurisdiction, which includes nine watersheds and the Lake Ontario waterfront. In the recent past, TRCA developed report cards for the Etobicoke, Mimico, Humber, Don, Rouge, Duffins and Carruthers watersheds in order to provide a detailed assessment of the health of the watersheds. With these report cards well established, TRCA has requested .a consolidated regional scale Report Card to effectively communicate conditions in accordance with The Living City vision for the TRCA jurisdiction which includes the City of Toronto and part of the Regions of Peel, York and Durham, Town of Mono and Township of Adjala - Tosorontio. The Authority, at its meeting #4/04, held on April 30, 2004, adopted resolution #A117/04 which authorizes TRCA to advance The Living City program through projects such as The Living City Report Card. The Living City is a broad vision for a sustainable future that is cleaner, greener and healthier than today. This vision builds on a foundation of healthy rivers and shorelines, regional biodiversity, sustainable communities and business excellence. The development of The Living City Report Card is a high level snapshot of how TRCA leads, partners and influences work aimed at achieving sustainable communities. It will communicate watershed conditions and efforts using indicators, measures and targets established by watershed management strategies and supporting technical documents. The results will not only be of value as a self assessment of TRCA's work, but will also complement municipal State of the Environment reports and objectives. There will be a maximum of 8 -10 indicators which will represent the watersheds and waterfront. Each indicator will present: G18 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 • Measures for gauging progress, trends or conditions; • Trends showing an improvement or decline in conditions;, • Action(s) that TRCA leads; • Action(s) that TRCA is influencing but led by others; • Action(s) that need to be done and define who the new partners would be; • Highlights of good news and bad news; • Targets for the year 2016; the next cycle; and • Key next steps on how to reach the target. The project will deliver a short, crisp report card that will be easy to understand, focus attention on key issues, provide solutions to problems and stimulate action. In addition, background technical materials will be available through TRCA and partner organizations to support the report card and provide more detailed information. The target audience for The Living City Report Card will be: • Regional and local municipalities; • Community groups; • Businesses; and • General public. The Living City Report Card will engage a wide range of partners to assist in scoping the project, identifying and evaluating indicators, and promoting the final product. The final set of indicators will be selected through consultation with staff and other stakeholders. Potential partners /stakeholders to be engaged in scoping sessions include the following. Contact would be subject to the scope of work the report card is to present. Regional municipalities York University, U of T, Ryerson Clean Air Partnership Neptis Foundation Toronto Community Foundation U of T Centre for Urban Health Initiatives Toronto City Summit Alliance Centre for Urban Ecology Canadian Urban Institute Toronto Food Policy Council MOE, MOH GTA Agricultural Action Plan Committee Enerlife FoodShare School Boards Local Food Plus Boston Consulting Group Health Dept. Metrolinx Carbonzero March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G19 A working committee will be established with representatives from municipalities, TRCA watershed task forces such as the Humber Watershed Alliance, Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition, Don Regeneration Council, and other individuals.and interest groups. The working committee will be supported by TRCA technical staff. Based on a review of indicator reports and sustainability strategies, a preliminary list of 16 potential indicators and associated measures has been developed for discussion and is presented on the following table (see next page) 1. Project Scoping: December, 2009 - March, 2010 Identify and meet with agencies /stakeholders Define geographic scope Establish working group committee and internal staff support Achieve a consensus on the list of sustainable communities indicators and measures Identify data sources Develop engagement, communications and media plan 2. Data Collection and Analysis: April 2010 - June 2010 Compile data on each indicator Define indicator trends Prepare technical support documents 3. Report Preparation: June 2010 - December 2010 • Hire a writer /editor • Report writing and editing • Select printer /distribution method (ie. Newspaper, print, online) • Prepare report card design and layout options 4. Marketing and Promotion: June 2010 - December 2010 • Report design and layout (internal) • Prepare and launch Facebook/Twitter page • Prepare contents for TRCA website • Organize report card launch • Send report card to print /develop online web -based tool 5. Report Card Launch: February 2011 Prepare media release Launch TRCA website Launch report card FINANCIAL DETAILS Financial support is available from Peel, York and Toronto capital budgets to cover the details of work described above. Peel (416- 40/129 -92) York (416 -40) Toronto (416 -40) G20 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 RES #G7 /10- 2010 STEWARDSHIP AND HABITAT RESTORATION CAPITAL PROJECTS IN THE HUMBER WATERSHED TRCA 2010 capital budgets for stewardship and habitat regeneration projects in the Humber watershed. Moved by: Seconded by: Sid Preece Madeleine McDowell THAT the report on the 2010 Projects in the Humber River Watershed be received; AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members be encouraged to have an active role in finalizing design details and implementation of the 2010 Humber projects CARRIED BACKGROUND TRCA has submitted budget requests to the Regions of York and Peel, and the City of Toronto • have allocated funding to support the implementation of Pathways to a Healthy Humber and the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP). The following is a list of approved projects for 2010. Some projects service other watersheds as well but all have a Humber watershed component. REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF PEEL PROGRAM PROJECT 2010 BUDGET Natural Heritage Regeneration Projects Private Land Stewardship - Tree & Shrub $23,000 Private Land Tree Planting - Reforestation $20,000 Authority Land Planting - Reforestation for Biodiversity $13,000 Peel Forest Management $24,000 Habitat for Wildlife $6,000 Managing TRCA Hazard Trees $10,000 Claireville Habitat Restoration $46,000 Humber River Watershed Habitat Implementation Plan $79,000 Oak Ridges Moraine CPA 2 $155,000 Canada Goose Management $39,000 Sustainable Communities Family Nature Events $21,000 March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G21 (SUB)TOTAL $2,658,000 Multicultural Environmental Stewardship $35,000 Healthy Yards Program $37,000 Rural Clean Water Program $66,000 Watershed on Wheels $60,000 Yellow Fish Road $25,000 Aquatic Plants Program $21,000 Urban Agriculture $52,000 Living City Report Card $50,000 Greening Golf Courses $20,000 Peel Community Habitat Improvement $41,000 West Humber Valley & Stream Regeneration $100,000 Ecosystem Management Projects Centreville Creek Implementation $100,000 Audobon Certification for CA's $300,000 Claireville Ecosystem Restoration $175,000 Forest Management (TRCA) $90,000 Forest Management (Private) $85,000 Reforestation (Private Land) $100,000 Wetland Management $100,000 Riparian Planting $100,000 Enhanced Existing Habitat Improvement Plans $200,000 Enhanced Existing Oak Ridges Moraine $100,000 West Humber Stewardship $90,000 Albion Hills Field Centre Retrofit and Renovation $275,000 (SUB)TOTAL $2,658,000 G22 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1 /10 March 9, 2010 REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK PROGRAM PROJECT 2010 BUDGET Stewardship (and Natural Heritage Regeneration) Eaton Hall Wetland /Seneca College $5,000 Humber River Watershed Habitat Implementation Plan $40,000 Lake Wilcox Habitat Improvement $23,000 William Granger Greenway $10,000 York Community Environmental Enhancement Projects $55,000 Outreach Education Family Nature Events $3,000 Healthy Yards $25,000 Multicultural Environmental Stewardship Program $15,000 Rural Clean Water Program $20,000 Aquatic Plants Program $8,000 Watershed on Wheels $41,000 Yellow Fish Road $6,000 Sustainable Technology Living City Report Card $30,000 Stewardship: Watershed -Wide Managing TRCA Hazard Trees $10,000 Private Land Stewardship $25,000 Reforestation for Biodiversity $25,000 Habitat for Wildlife $6,000 Wildlife Management $14,000 Natural Planting Partnership /Urban Forest Canopy Natural Planting Partnership (Reforestation) $50,000 Urban Forest Canopy $120,000 (SUB)TOTAL $531,000 March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1 /10 G23 CITY OF TORONTO PROGRAM PROJECT 2010 BUDGET Humber River Valley and Stream Restoration Program $48,000 TRCA Indigenous Plant Propagation /Other Restoration Indigenous Plant Propagation $19,000 Canada Goose Management $30,000 Habitat for Wildlife $6,000 Public Outreach Education Family Nature $10,000 Multicultural Environmental Stewardship - $30,000 Healthy Yards $22,000 Rural Clean Water Program $15,000 Stewardship Humber Community Environmental Projects $33,000 Watershed on Wheels Yellow Fish Road $21,000 Watershed on Wheels $43,000 Aquatic Plants Program $21,000 Sustainable Communities Community Transformation Partnership $20,000 $318,000 (SUB)TOTAL TOTAL FUNDING $3,507,000 Agencies such as the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation, Great Lakes Sustainability Fund, Trout Unlimited, TD Friends of the Environment, Environment Canada, Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of the Environment and others have contributed significant funding and resources to many of the above listed projects in the past. Other sources of funding are being sought to complement the municipal contribution. Budgets presented in this report consist of municipal funds only. Typically projects receive matching contributions from other sources. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE • Finalize project designs; • Obtain appropriate approvals; • Confirm matching funds; • Engage local stakeholders to assist with the implementation of appropriate elements of the project. • Recognize projects and partners via media and special events. G24 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 March 9, 2010 RES #G8/10- SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS - 2010 -2012 A schedule of meetings dates is proposed for the Humber Watershed Alliance. Moved by: Seconded by: Heather Broadbent Bert Duclos THAT the meeting dates for the Humber Watershed Alliance scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on the following dates be approved; AND FURTHER THAT the meetings be held at the Black Creek Pioneer Village Visitors Centre, unless otherwise noted CARRIED 2010 DATES #1/10 Tuesday, March 9, 2010 #2/10 Tuesday, June 15, 2010 #3/10 Tuesday, September 21, 2010 #4/10 Tuesday, December 7, 2010 2011 DATES #1/11 #2/11 #3/11 #4/11 Tuesday, March 8, 2011 Tuesday, June 14, 2011 Tuesday, September 20, 2011 Tuesday, December 6, 2011 Optional 3'd year to be confirmed at a later date 2012 DATES #1/12 Tuesday, March 6, 2012 #2/12 Tuesday, June 12, 2012 #3/12 Tuesday, September 18, 2012 #4/12 Tuesday, December 4, 2012 RATIONALE A schedule of meetings is proposed to assist the Alliance. A random sample of municipalities were contacted to avoid choosing meeting dates that may conflict with municipal council meetings within the Humber River Watershed. Tuesday evenings are proposed. Meetings of the entire membership will be held quarterly. TRCA can provide meeting space to the Alliance on a regular basis at the Black Creek Pioneer Village Visitors Centre. This location is central to the watershed and easily accessible. However, the Alliance is encouraged to have meetings at various locations throughout the watershed. Suggestions for other meeting locations are welcome. March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G25 NEW BUSINESS Ontario Greenbelt Plan M. McDowell suggested that a letter be sent to the City of Toronto congratulating them for including the Don and Humber River valleys within Ontario's Greenbelt Plan. Gerri -Lynn O'Connor agreed that the letter should be sent from the TRCA Chair. Salt Management RES. #G9 /10 Moved by: Seconded by: Madeleine McDowell Sid Preece WHEREAS a recent extensive study of streams and groundwater entering Frenchman's Bay over a five year period revealed that the levels of contamination to water and sediment greatly exceed provincial water quality standards, in some cases by as much as 250 per cent, due to the large amounts of road salt applied in winter, especially to Highway 401; WHEREAS the study states that 7,600 tonnes of de -icing road salt is applied to roads each year with more than half of it accumulating in groundwater and returning as salinated baseflow into creeks; WHEREAS the study states that roads and parking lots are the primary sources of contaminated water and sediment causing a significant decline in aquatic life and Toss of wetlands; WHEREAS the study states that contaminated water from Frenchman's Bay flows directly into the Lake Ontario basin which is used to provide drinking water for 36 million people; WHEREAS the study states the City of Pickering has created a Waterfront Committee to consider the implications of the report to determine future action; THAT the TRCA staff report to the Authority concerning salt management entering Frenchman's Bay be provided to the Humber Watershed Alliance, for information, when available; BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Eyles and Meriano study of Frenchman's Bay salt contamination, both surface and groundwater, be examined by TRCA with regard to its implications for the Humber watershed and its aquafers CARRIED G26 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1 /10 March 9, 2010 The Sacred Tree Fund M. McDowell reported that in 1787, a treaty was signed at Kente with the Aboriginal people for the purchase of the Toronto Carrying Place and part of Toronto. In 1805, the remainder of the Toronto Purchase took place which has been in dispute ever since. The federal government has given an offer to the Mississaugas of the New Credit. They will be voting on it and, if passed, the Toronto Purchase will be settled. The Mississaugas of the New Credit bought their reserve in Hagersville from Six Nations. The New Credit farmed the area and lost their culture and history. There are no trees on the reserve. Birch is their sacred tree. Arrangements have been made to have the land remediated but $5,000- $8,000 is required for the project. In this connection, a fund has been established. If anyone is interested in donating to The Sacred Tree Fund, they may do so through any branch of the Bank of Nova Scotia until the end of May 2010. Account number is 715220013617. No tax receipts will be issued. Humber Book: The Carrying Place B. Duclos congratulated the Humber Team on the publication of the above book. The Humber Watershed Alliance recognizes this significant achievement. Lower Humber Fish Ladder Update A detailed design has been submitted to DFO, MNR and TRCA for approvals. The estimated cost to build the ladder is $750,000. Sources of funding need to be confirmed. None are firm at this point. Possible construction date is no earlier than the end of 2011. Source Water Protection J. Webster requested that a presentation be made at a future Humber Watershed Alliance meeting on Source Water Protection and five, ten and 25 year water flows. Pan Am Games B. Imrie announced that the Caledon Equestrian Park in Palgrave will be the equine venue for the Pan Am Games to be held in July 2015. As TRCA owns a significant amount of land at the park and as a host landowner, it was requested that a report be brought to a future Humber Watershed Alliance meeting and perhaps, invite a representative from an equine group to make a presentation. March 9, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #1/10 G27 DOOR PRIZE As a token of the Authority's appreciation for the members' participation on the Humber Watershed Alliance, a draw was held for the recently - released Humber book titled, "The Carrying Place ". The winning ticket belonged to Sid Preece. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 8:50 p.m., March 9, 2010 Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer /L. c. dirTHE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 Page G29 June 15, 2010 The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village on Tuesday, June 15, 2010. Richard Whitehead, Acting Chair, called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. PRESENT Arshad Ali Member Jim Bradley Member Sharon Bradley Member Heather Broadbent Member lain Craig Member Bert Duclos Member Tom Fuller Member Ron Hingston Member Gaspar Horvath Member Michael Hoy Member Robert Hulley Member Barb Imrie Member Peter Lazarakis Member Lisette Mallet Member Mike Mattos Member Madeleine McDowell Member Sid Preece Member Lynda Rogers Member Deb Schulte Member Mary Serniak Member Jason Stabler Member Peter Telford Member Lisa Turnbull Member Jane Underhill Member Barry Westhead Member Richard Whitehead Member Bill Wilson Member Jessica Wright Member GUESTS Adam Rosenberg Zerofootprint Janet Wong Regional Municipality of Peel G30 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 STAFF Sonia Dhir Project Manager, Humber Julie Hordowick Project Manager, Watershed Planning Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber Jinho Lee Administrative Assistant, Watershed Management Kasey Livington Coordinator, Humber Stewardship Clara Stewart - Robertson Watershed Resources Planner, Humber Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber ELECTION OF CHAIR - HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE lain Craig was nominated by Heather Broadbent. Heather Broadbent was nominated by Bert Duclos. lain Craig accepted the nomination for the office of Chair of the Humber Watershed Alliance. Heather Broadbent declined the nomination for the office of Chair of the Humber Watershed Alliance. RES. #G10/10 - MOTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF CHAIR OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE Moved by: Seconded by: Lisette Mallet Bob Hulley THAT nominations for the office of the Chair of the Humber Watershed Alliance be closed CARRIED lain Craig was declared elected as Chair of the Humber Watershed Alliance. ELECTION OF VICE -CHAIR - HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE Heather Broadbent was nominated by Lisette Mallet. Madeleine McDowell was nominated by Heather Broadbent. Heather Broadbent and Madeleine McDowell accepted the office of Co- Chairs of the Humber Watershed Alliance. June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G31 RES. #G11/10 - MOTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF CO- CHAIRS OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE Moved by: Seconded by: Lisette Mallet Bob Hulley THAT nominations for the office of the Co- Chairs of the Humber Watershed Alliance be closed CARRIED Heather Broadbent and Madeleine McDowell were declared elected as Co- Chairs of the Humber Watershed Alliance. RES. #G12/10 - MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: Deb Schulte Sharon Bradley THAT the minutes of meeting #1/10, held on March 9, 2010, be approved CARRIED CORRESPONDENCE (a) Letter to the Agricultural Adaptation Council from the Humber Watershed Alliance, dated May 6, 2010, re: CAAP application for funding RES. #,G13/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Madeleine McDowell Sid Preece THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED G32 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 PRESENTATIONS (a) Living City Carbon Footprint Calculator Adam Rosenberg of Zerofootprint made a presentation on the Living City Carbon Footprint Calculator. The presentation focussed on the following: • CO 2 concentrations over the last 100 years; • ecological footprint by country; • our challenge; • personal carbon emissions by source in Southern Ontario • engaging communities. (b) Heritage Bridge Inventory Bob HuIley made a presentation on the Heritage Bridge Inventory. The presentation focussed on the following: • guiding principles; • bridge design criteria; • benchmark results; • next steps. (c) Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Action Plans Julie Hordowick made a presentation on the Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Action Plans. The presentation focussed on the following: • what is SNAP? key features of SNAP; core themes and complementary themes; SNAP process; project benefits; • synergies. RES. #G14/10- Moved by: Seconded by: LIVING CITY CARBON FOOTPRINT CALCULATOR To inform the Humber Watershed Alliance members of the Living City Carbon Footprint Calculator. Madeleine McDowell Jim Bradley THAT the staff report on the Living City Carbon Footprint Calculator prepared by Zerofootprint Software Inc., be received for information; THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance members participate by calculating their personal footprints and following actions in the calculator to reduce their carbon emissions; June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G33 AND FURTHER THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance members promote the Living City Carbon Footprint Calculator within their networks CARRIED BACKGROUND In an effort to supplement Toronto and Region Conservation's (TRCA's) climate change initiative, TRCA and the Region of Peel retained the services of Zerofootprint Software Inc., to develop an online application called the "Carbon Footprint Calculator" for each agency. Zerofootprint Software Inc., is a company that develops educational applications to measure and manage carbon emissions for the purpose of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Region of Peel's Living City Calculator is aimed at municipal staff and residents of Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon and TRCA's Living City Calculator is aimed at TRCA staff and the public residing within their jurisdiction. Both Peel and TRCA Calculators are inter- related and complement each other and are currently being promoted through a media campaign called, "Life is Better in Peel." Objective The objectives of the Living City Carbon Footprint Calculator are to calculate an individual's carbon footprint and help increase public understanding and awareness of climate change and carbon emissions. By utilizing the calculator, users will see how different choices made in eating, living and travelling can influence their personal carbon dioxide contribution to the environment. Users also learn about tips and actions to reduce their carbon emissions from activities of daily living. TRCA Living City Carbon Calculator Toronto and Region Conservation's Living City Carbon Calculator will take the details of the user's lifestyle and calculate their carbon footprint - the impact that individuals make on the environment because of the way they live. Once the calculation is complete, it will advise on how to reduce one's footprint through tips that are customized to initiatives and programs within TRCA's jurisdiction. Upon completion, users will be able to run "what -if" scenarios based on the tips. These simulations will illustrate the reduction in the users' footprint if they decide to follow a particular course of action. Users can then decide if they would like to take particular actions and set goals. In addition, the calculator allows for the user to compare their achievements with other individuals and track their accomplishments over time. Most importantly, TRCA's Living City Carbon Calculator will enable users to visualize how small changes can have a large impact on climate change. Toronto and Region Conservation's Living City Carbon Calculator can be access at: trca.zerofootprint.net. Upon entering, a short registration process requiring email address (username), password, and postal code is required to gain access. This information is required in order to set -up an account for the user, to identify the user's neighbourhood for statistical purposes, and to store the users' responses for future use. Next, the user will need to answer some questions about their lifestyle around travel, food and G34 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 home. For example, the calculator will ask about how much energy and water is consumed at home, how far they drive the car and how many flights they have taken in the last 12 months. (It will be handy to have electricity and water bills, as well as frequent flyer statements to ensure a more accurate calculation). Users also have the option of selecting the "estimate" function to use an average value for a quicker calculation. In approximately 15 minutes, after answering all questions, a fairly good estimate of the user's carbon footprint will be produced, including some suggestions on how they can reduce their carbon footprint. It will also allow them to compare their footprint to averages of other groups, cities or countries. Specific data from the calculator such as average footprint per user, initial footprint per user, total reductions, aggregated by postal code or watersheds will be available to TRCA for specific reporting and analysis. A community group for the Humber Watershed Alliance has been created in TRCA's Living City Carbon Calculator. Upon completing the calculation and joining this group, the Humber Watershed Alliance members will be able to see each other's carbon footprint, their goals to reduce it as well as the average carbon footprint of the group. Also, a forum function is available within the group to allow for communication among members. A similar carbon calculator has been developed as well by the Region of Peel (peel.zerofootprint.net) and the City of Toronto (toronto.zerofootprint.net). DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE • Members to try the calculator and register as part of the Humber Watershed Alliance community group; Implementation of a public outreach campaign and "train the trainer" program to promote and encourage watershed residents and the general public to utilize the carbon calculator. Peel Region's Living City Calculator is being promoted through Peel's "Life is Better in Peel" campaign, a climate change campaign, which was advertised online, on transit buses, shopping malls, radios, and The Weather Network. TRCA's Living City Calculator will be promoted through a series of TRCA's environmental events throughout the year and the TRCA website. June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G35 RES. #G15/10- HUMBER RIVER HERITAGE BRIDGE INVENTORY Overview of the Humber River Heritage Bridge Inventory. Moved by: Seconded by: Heather Broadbent Madeleine McDowell THAT the Heritage Subcommittee complete the Humber River Heritage Bridge Inventory by finalizing and documenting the heritage evaluations, bridge descriptions, statements of heritage value, attendant mapping, and methods that were used in the project; THAT the completed Humber River Heritage Bridge Inventory be submitted to Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA); THAT TRCA be requested to circulate the Humber River Heritage Bridge Inventory to the appropriate municipal heritage advisory committees, and any other individuals or groups interested in heritage protection and restoration within the Humber River watershed; AND FURTHER THAT the municipal heritage advisory committees be requested to consider the information contained in the inventory during the process of formally listing or designating any of the identified bridges as heritage structures CARRIED BACKGROUND In 1999, the Humber River was officially designated as a Canadian Heritage River, acknowledging its outstanding human heritage and its contribution to the development of Canada through exploration, settlement, and commerce. From the headwaters to the mouth of the Humber, bridges have been an essential part of this continuous development, linking the landscape with communities. They are not just physical structures that facilitate different modes of transportation. They are also embedded in our relationships with place and the evolution of our cultural landscapes, serving as living memories, landmarks, and important contributions to the character of a community or the Humber River itself. In this spirit, the Humber River Bridge Inventory was developed to catalogue all of the watercourse crossings along the Humber River and its tributaries, and to identify those bridges of particular heritage value. This project also aims to help guide the listing or designation of bridges of heritage significance by local municipalities, while increasing community awareness of these human heritage features. Further, it will produce valuable information for heritage and watershed planning, as well as for future heritage evaluations of bridges in other regions. Various mapping techniques and site assessments of public and private properties were used to identify any culverts, weirs, abutments, and functional bridges along the Humber River. Qualitative data was also collected from community members, municipal reports, photographic archives, and other heritage resources. Through this iterative process, a total of 1250 bridges were identified. G36 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 Taking into consideration the criteria outlined in the Ontario Heritage Bridge Program (for example, materials, design, location, and age) and drawing on their diverse knowledge and expertise, members of the Heritage Subcommittee pinpointed 32 bridges, culverts, and abutments that have heritage significance. Of these bridges, four structures have already been listed, and five designated, by different municipalities. Through a second round of site visits and conversations, the Heritage Subcommittee is now re- evaluating thesebridges for their design elements, contextual value, and historical association, in accordance with Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act. This additional step will ensure validity and rigour in the research project. The final report will incorporate historical and contemporary photographs of the 32 bridges, statements of their heritage value, and the rationale for their inclusion in the shorter list. The database and mapping of all 1250 bridges will be presented as well. Opportunities for knowledge translation and future research The data collected on each bridge could be translated for with Geographic Information System (GIS) and future mapping projects at TRCA. Opportunities exist to further translate the inventory for the wider community, by creating an abbreviated version of the report, an interactive online tool, interpretive walking tours and podcasts, newspaper or magazine articles, or making note of the bridges on trailhead signs and kiosks in some conservation properties. The inventory could be provided to TRCA's Ecology Division for their review and analysis to determine if any of the bridges are acting as potential barriers to the fish populations. Also, the findings could be accommodated into the development of new and existing trails across the watershed, for instance, a secondary pedestrian trail network in Claireville Conservation Area. Identifying and investigating those bridges within the watershed which do not in fact cross the Humber River or its tributaries, could be another worthwhile endeavour. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Members of the Heritage Subcommittee will complete the historical research, site analysis, evaluation, and descriptions of the 32 bridges which have been identified for their heritage significance. The final report will be submitted to TRCA in September 2010. Subsequently, it will be shared with the relevant municipalities, heritage committees, and other interested individuals or groups for their consideration. June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G37 RES. #G16/10- Moved by: Seconded by: SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBOURHOOD RETROFIT ACTION PLAN PROJECTS Progress on two pilot sustainable neighbourhood retrofit action plan projects. Deb Schulte Sharon Bradley THAT the staff report on the Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Action Plan Projects pertaining to Lake Wilcox and Jane Finch be received; AND FURTHER THAT Gaspar Horvath and Ewa Downarowicz of the Humber Watershed Alliance participate in the stakeholder meeting to be held in July, 2010 CARRIED BACKGROUND The Authority, at its meeting #2/10 held on March 26, 2010, adopted the following resolution: THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff be directed to continue to work with municipal and community partners in the development of the three pilot sustainable neighbourhood retrofit action plan (SNAP) projects as outlined in this report; THAT staff continue to pursue innovative partnerships and funding opportunities to secure resources and financial support for plan development and implementation; THAT members of the Authority consider potential opportunities for future SNAP project sites for staff to explore and report back on; AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority in January 2011 on progress of the pilot SNAP projects, potential new sites and preliminary lessons learned for increased neighbourhood sustainability. The SNAP projects, led by TRCA and its municipal partners, engage a diverse range of stakeholders in the development of action - oriented plans for improving environmental sustainability in established neighbourhoods. The SNAPs will identify actions on private and public property to address environmental objectives in the context of social and economic considerations for each neighbourhood. Emphasis will be on finding integrated solutions that achieve multiple benefits. The SNAPs fulfill the recommendations of broader strategic plans, such as watershed plans, climate change strategies and municipal sustainability strategies, by applying them at a catchment - based, neighbourhood scale. The focus of work since the initial Authority report in July 2009 has been on finalizing all workplans, advancing the initial phase of work and developing stakeholder partnerships for each of the SNAP pilot sites. Staff has also worked actively on the development of a broader partnership network in order to secure access to expertise, resources and innovative funding sources. G38 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 Partner involvement, both external and internal, is a very significant and critical aspect of the SNAPs. These projects have engaged the water /works, planning and parks departments of partner municipalities, but through these liaison staff, a much broader range of municipal departments has been consulted and will be involved at key stages. These projects have drawn upon the expertise and services of many TRCA divisions, including: • Watershed Management - Stewardship and Outreach Education (delivery of educational workshops) and Watershed Specialists (community leader engagement); Restoration Services - habitat restoration advice; Parks and Culture - Kortright Centre (sustainable house tours), Black Creek Pioneer Village (local community contacts, meeting venue, sustainable demonstrations), golf course Audubon certification advice; Marketing and Communications - graphic design; Ecology - integrated planning and project management, technical conditions characterization, baseline monitoring. Community partners are further identified in this report, in association with each of the pilot sites. Creative retrofit options and innovative partnerships are expected to emerge from this collaborative approach, while staff is also making an effort to ensure effective and efficient communications. The following sections present milestones since July 2009, partners and immediate next steps for each of the pilot SNAPs within the Humber watershed. This progress report concludes with information about the broader partner network and a summary of preliminary lessons learned. Lake Wilcox SNAP, Richmond Hill This SNAP project is building on the Town of Richmond Hill's Lake Wilcox remediation studies, by investigating additional community -based measures that could further reduce phosphorus loads to the lake. The SNAP will address water quantity and quality of the lake and its catchment, as well as protection and restoration of natural heritage within a broader sustainable community context. Major milestones since July 2009: Conducted scoping sessions with municipal partners and community leaders and finalized a workplan. Established Project Management Team comprised of TRCA, Town of Richmond Hill and Region of York staff. Partners to date: Municipalities - Region of York, Town of Richmond Hill. Utilities - Powerstream, Enbridge. Community stakeholders - Oak Ridges Friends of the Environment, Oak Ridges Trail Association, Oak Ridges Lion's Club, York Region Environmental Alliance and local businesses. June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G39 Immediate next steps: • Town of Richmond Hill staff to report to their Council regarding the SNAP project. • Conduct competitive RFP process and hire consultants to characterize baseline conditions, identify and evaluate retrofit options, and undertake community -based social market research to identify barriers and motivating factors for change. • Develop a broader plan of community events to engage residents, businesses and community groups in the SNAP project. Black Creek SNAP, Toronto This SNAP will evaluate retrofit options for stormwater management, natural heritage enhancement and other sustainable actions to complement the City of Toronto's plans to alleviate basement flooding and address TRCA's objectives for improving conditions in the Black Creek subwatershed. The actions will be considered in the broader context of economic and social conditions that are prominent in the minds of residents and businesses in the area. This SNAP will build on a local "greening" partnership between TRCA and the Jane Finch Community Family Centre (JFCFC) and existing outreach efforts by local community groups. The project also offers an opportunity for TRCA and Black Creek Pioneer Village to become more actively involved in the neighbourhood of which their offices are a part. TRCA is proud to partner with the JFCFC on their Green Change Project. This project is a unique outreach effort to engage local residents in activities to reduce their ecological footprint. JFCFC and its partners developed a 45 hour training program on a variety of aspects of sustainable living. Local volunteers were recruited to become Green Change agents by completing the training and performing home audits in the Jane Finch area. TRCA's role in the project was to provide training on energy efficiency at the Archetype Sustainable House at Kortright. Black Creek Pioneer Village, in partnership with JFCFC, hosted the Green Change Project launch event, which engaged 300 local residents in a day of environmental presentations, games and displays. TRCA staff has also been actively involved on the project's advisory committee, helping to direct the project and secure funding for 2010 and beyond. TRCA's partnerships with JFCFC and their Green Change Project offers community insights and connections with other local community leaders upon which to further the implementation of TRCA's other watershed management objectives. Major milestones since July 2009: • Developed a partnership with the Jane Finch Community Family Centre (as described above) and gained valuable community insights and connections. • Conducted scoping sessions with six City of Toronto departments and several community stakeholder groups, and finalized a workplan. • Formed a Project Management Team, comprised of TRCA, Toronto Water, Toronto Environment Office, Jane Finch Community Family Centre, Black Creek Conservation Project and Live Green animators. Partners to date: Municipality - City of Toronto. Utilities - Enbridge. Community stakeholders - Jane Finch Community Family Centre, Black Creek Conservation Project, Live Green Community Animators (ACORN, Toronto Environmental Alliance, Citizens Environment Watch, Conservation Council of Ontario) and Black Creek Pioneer Village. G40 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 Immediate next steps: • Conduct competitive RFP process and hire consultants to assemble available information regarding baseline conditions, facilitate multi - stakeholder workshop to seek community input to options development, and identify and evaluate retrofit options. • Multi- stakeholder workshop planned for June 2010 to seek input on objectives, retrofit options and to understand barriers and motivating factors for change. • On -going work with the Jane Finch Community Family Centre to build neighbourhood capacity and interest in the SNAP and develop early demonstration projects for the summer /fall 2010. Broader SNAP Partnership Network TRCA is building a broader partnership network in order to secure access to expertise, resources and innovative sources of funding or materials. These partnerships take different forms, depending on the organization, from simple information - sharing to greater levels of contribution or involvement. The following is a list of groups who have been contacted and who have expressed an interest in being kept involved in some way. Provincial and Federal Governments Ministry of the Environment's Water Efficiency Office; Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Research Groups Sustainable Development Commission UK; The Natural Step Canada; Ontario Centres of Excellence ; Polis Project; Centre for Urban Health Initiatives; Seneca College. Associations Canada Green Building Council - GTA Chapter; Landscape Ontario; Ontario Water and Wastewater Association; Canadian Water Resources Association. Private Sector Royal Bank of Canada (pending); Water technology and landscaping sector companies. Preliminary Lessons Learned The SNAP pilot projects are testing several "ideas" about how urban retrofits could be accelerated and effectively coordinated, while at the same time advancing in- the - ground achievements and demonstrations. These "ideas" formed the basis for the planning study design (i.e. neighbourhood scale, integrated approach, role of TRCA as facilitator, collaborative multi - stakeholder involvement, etc.). TRCA is actively seeking a research partnership to assist in an evaluation of these pilot projects. In the interim, the following is a summary of preliminary observations: All prospective partners have expressed significant enthusiasm and interest in this innovative approach. Municipal departments are seeing this project as an avenue to facilitate integration of interdepartmental actions and targets. June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G41 • Lessons learned on Brampton SNAP pilot are streamlining the process in other SNAPs; effective and efficient communications will be key to ensure project success and avoid partner burnout. • Staff is learning about how to communicate and relate complex processes /natural systems to residents and businesses. • Stakeholder contact and partnership development work has taken some time, due to the diversity and numbers of stakeholders and the need for meaningful, tailored one -on- one initial meetings - this is a valuable step in ensuring buy -in and longer term project success. • Corporate /business landowners and stakeholders are keen to profile their corporate sustainability efforts and appear open to consider new approaches; often they lack access to information about incentive programs or experience - SNAPs are playing a role in information sharing. Private sector entrepreneurs have numerous innovative technologies, but lack the connections to local markets and sites to demonstrate and test their products - the SNAPs can play an important role in this regard. Finally, it appears that the SNAPs are somewhat unique. The Sustainable Development Commission (SDC) of the United Kingdom identified the SNAPs as the only comprehensive, neighbourhood scale retrofit action planning project they are aware of (most other groups do single focus retrofits, such as energy or water, or broader strategic sustainability plans). SDC is interested in learning from TRCA's experience as part of a research project they have underway on delivering neighbourhood retrofit. One of their early findings is the need for a local organization with holistic ability to act as a project facilitator and the need for tailored approaches. TRCA's mandate, skills and partner- centred model are ideally suited to lead the program. FINANCIAL DETAILS Funding has been provided in the Climate Change and capital budgets from the Region of Peel (129 -94; 416 -10), and from the capital budgets of the Region of York (122 -85) and City of Toronto (113 -95). Additional fundraising, incentives and partner development for these SNAP projects is actively being pursued in an effort to enhance planning, implementation and expand the demonstration opportunities. To date, funding applications have been submitted to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Green Municipal Funds, Metcalf Foundation and Provincial Go Green program. The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto is assisting in fundraising efforts. TRCA staff believe there is rationale for application of this retrofit planning approach at other sites and is pursuing discussions with municipalities about potential future SNAP sites for 2011. Budgets for such projects were included in TRCA's 2011 municipal capital budget projections. G42 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 RES. #G17/10- Moved by: Seconded by: HUMBER RIVER WATERSHED SOCIAL MEDIA To inform Humber Watershed Alliance members about the launch of "The Humber River, Ontario" Facebook Page. Deb Schulte Gaspar Horvath THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members participate in "The Humber River, Ontario" Facebook page by providing an efficient exchange of information, opinions and audio - visual media among Alliance members and the general public regarding topics related to the Humber River watershed; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff create subfolders on the Humber Facebook page with images of Humber Watershed Alliance members to profile their work. AMENDMENT RES. #G18/10 Moved by: Seconded by: Mike Mattos Deb Schulte THAT individual Humber Watershed Alliance members be asked for their permission to use their names and images on the Humber Facebook page and website; THAT no images of Humber Watershed Alliance members be tagged; THAT, in future, all emails directed to the Humber Watershed Alliance be sent via the "BCC" field; THAT, in future, all emails directed to any subcommittee of the Humber Watershed Alliance be sent via the "TO" field; THAT a paper copy of the Humber Watershed Alliance directory be sent to each member; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff update members on the progress of the Humber Facebook page, including clarification of terminology, at the next Humber Watershed Alliance meeting. THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED BACKGROUND In developing a Social Media and Communications Strategy for the Humber River watershed, Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) staff has recently established an online social networking community on Facebook under "The Humber River, Ontario" page. The purpose of this Facebook page is to increase profile of the Humber River watershed and the Canadian Heritage Rivers System, the work of Alliance members and increase awareness around current initiatives, accomplishments and challenges by engaging in meaningful conversation. Also, through posting and distributing information online, paper printing will be reduced, helping to reduce our ecological footprint. June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G43 The term Social Media (also referred to as Web 2.0) is an umbrella term used to describe a suite of online tools which typically have the following characteristics: mostly free to use; extremely simple to use requiring no prior training or technical knowledge;support collaboration and sharing of opinions, insights, experiences and perspectives with the general public; and content within them, and often the functionality, is managed and regulated by the user community itself and not the provider of the tool or a third party institution. Facebook is one of the world's largest growing online social networking websites and one of many types of existing social media today. Facebook is owned and operated by Facebook Inc and is designed to encourage online collaboration and information sharing through a range of communication mechanisms such as: status updates, wall posts, discussion boards and instant messaging. The service is available free of charge and will enable Alliance members to easily share: information (including images and other audio - visual media) or links for distribution; input and feedback on information or links; opinion exchange on topics of interest; and announcements and event invitations. Each member has received an email inviting them to become a member of the Humber Facebook page. To join, members will have to sign up for Facebook account which is relatively simple to create. Members who do not have a Facebook account or who do not wish to create one are welcome to visit and explore the page; however, they will not be able to participate in the discussions or post content. Humber watershed management staff will administer the Facebook page. The content of the Humber Facebook page is regulated by TRCA's Social Media Policy (draft) and Facebook rules and regulations. Additional information on Facebook can be found on the Facebook website at www.facebook.com DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Currently, the Humber facebook page features various accomplishments from the past year such as the Humber's 10th anniversary celebration as a Canadian Heritage River, the McVean Farm opening, the Humber Book, and work on the Humber Bridge Inventory. Event notices for this year have also been posted, along with images from more recent events. Some of the goals for the next year around social media are: • develop a Social Media and Communications Strategy for the Humber River watershed to increase the profile of the Humber River watershed and the work of Humber Watershed Alliance members; create subfolders on the Facebook page with images of Humber Watershed Alliance members to profile their work; increase facebook page membership to at least 100 within the next year to create an effective platform for participation; and post more regular status updates, event notices and discussion topics (at least once every two weeks). G44 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 RES. #G19/10- Moved by: Seconded by: BLACK CREEK PIONEER VILLAGE (BCPV) NORTH MASTER PLAN PUBLIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE To appoint a member of the Humber Watershed Alliance to participate on the BCPV North Master Plan Public Advisory Committee. Sid Preece Sharon Bradley THAT Gaspar Horvath represent the Humber Watershed Alliance on the Black Creek Pioneer Village North Master Plan Public Advisory Committee; AND FURTHER THAT such member report back to the Humber Watershed Alliance on the status of the work undertaken by the advisory committee CARRIED BACKGROUND TRCA is commencing the Black Creek Pioneer Village North Master Plan to determine future site useage and programming for this significant cultural heritage resource. The master plan is being developed in conjunction with an environmental assessment study being undertaken by the City of Vaughan to look at storm water management on the property. Study time frame: June - August 30, 2010 Consultant: Schollen and Company A BCPV North Public Advisory Committee will be composed of agency and community representatives who will review and advise on pertinent components of the plan, including cultural heritage resources, sustainable future use directions, and storm management pond issues. The public advisory committee will be responsible for the following major functions: • Review and provide input throughout the development of the master plan; Ensure that appropriate members of their respective organizations, committees, or agencies are adequately informed throughout the process; Assist with presentations and public forums. There will be at least two meetings during the study development from June to August 2010. This committee will continue to provide input and advise on the project as it develops from the initial planning stage through implemention stages, likely meeting quarterly thereafter. We will be seeking representation from the following organizations to participate on this advisory committee: Local Jane Finch community organizations, including Jane Finch Family and Community Services, Toronto Urban Farm (staff or advisory committee member) Humber Watershed Alliance Descendants of the Dalziel family Heritage Vaughan Pennsylvania German Folklore Society Vaughan Historical Society York University Black Creek Project Local municipal councillors (Vaughan and Toronto) City of Vaughan staff June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G45 RES #G20/10- Moved by: Seconded by: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP IN PEEL REGION To inform Humber Watershed Alliance members about stewardship programming planned in the Humber watershed and to seek input on potential opportunities. Sid Preece Sharon Bradley THAT members of the Humber Watershed Alliance consider opportunities for collaboration on environmental stewardship activities in the Humber River Watershed in Peel Region; AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members be encouraged to share opportunities with the Humber River Stewardship Coordinator CARRIED BACKGROUND In April, 2010, Kasey Livingston was hired to fill the new position of Humber River Stewardship Coordinator. This one -year contract position is made possible through Region of Peel funds allocated to support the implementation of Pathways to a Healthy Humber (see Humber Watershed Alliance Resolution #G7/10 of meeting held on March 9, 2010). This position is part of the Stewardship and Outreach Education Team within the Watershed Management Division at TRCA. In 2010 -2011, the Humber River Stewardship Program will focus efforts in four communities in Peel Region: Bolton, Caledon East, Palgrave, and Claireville. In this program, staff will look to support and strengthen existing environmental movement in these communities by collaborating with community groups, schools, faith -based organizations and the municipalities. Examples of collaboration may include but are not limited to: Community awareness: • Development of signage /information kiosk for community naturalization initiatives or trails projects • Activities to help adults and children to be comfortable in local natural spaces i.e.: hikes or the aquatic plants program • Coordination of educational activities to run alongside community tree planting events i.e.: Sciensational Sssnakes! or a nature hikeCollaboration on a green technology bus tour Homeowner outreach and education: Tools to deliver the Yellow Fish Road Program Support in the organization of natural lawn care, native gardening, backyard biodiversity and home energy workshops Development of a Homeowners Guide: Environmental Action at Home G46 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 Habitat creation: • Support in the design and implementation of a school yard pollinator /butterfly garden • Bird box kits and building /installation tools • Design and installation of a snake hibernaculum or alternative habitat structure • Plant material and tools for community planting events Citizen science: • Coordination of community environmental monitoring training and monitoring days. For example: feeder /frog /monarch watch, Christmas bird count DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE • Development of a program work plan for each focus area for 2010 which will include community stewardship activities for the fall of 2010 • Meetings with TRCA staff, school principals, councillors and community leaders to seek opportunities for collaboration • Continue to seek funds to carry out and expand programming beyond 2010 in Peel Region • Scope opportunities to expand stewardship programming into areas of the Humber River Watershed falling in York Region and the City of Toronto RES. #G21/10 - Moved by: Seconded by: SUBCOMMITTEE MINUTES The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Sid Preece Sharon Bradley THAT the following minutes be received: Black Creek Subcommittee #1/10 (April 29) and #2/10 (May 27) Boyd /East Humber Subcommittee #1/10 (April 28) and #2/10 (May 26) Claireville Subcommittee #1/10 (April 20) and #2/10 (May 11) Heritage Subcommittee #1/10 (April 29) and #2/10 (May 13) Report Card Subcommittee #1/10 (April 21) CARRIED June 15, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 G47 NEW BUSINESS Sacred Tree Fund M. McDowell advised that the trees were planted in Hagersville on -May 29, 2010. Toronto Purchase M. McDowell reported that the Mississaugas of the New Credit voted to accept $145 million from the federal government for the Toronto Purchase land settlement. King Township Historical Society Event B. Duclos extended an invitation to all Alliance members to attend the celebration of the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the French in Ontario. The event will take place on Saturday, September 25, 2010 at the King Museum located at 2920 King Road in King City. Lisette Mallet will be the keynote speaker. Ontario Green Energy Act A. Ali reported that the provincial government, under the Ontario Green Energy Act, is considering the installation of solar panels on rooftops at no charge. A test market has begun. Cold Creek Conservation Area Members were informed that the next Humber Watershed Alliance meeting will be held at Cold Creek on September 21, 2010. Jane Underhill and Lynda Rogers have graciously extended an invitation to hold our next meeting there. A hike prior to the meeting will be planned and car pooling will be coordinated for those who require it. DOOR PRIZE As a token of the Authority's appreciation for the members' participation on the Humber Watershed Alliance, a draw was held for a Humber print. The winning ticket belonged to Mary Serniak. G48 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #2/10 June 15, 2010 TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:25 p.m., June 15, 2010 Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer /L. ts& THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 Page G49 September 21, 2010 The Humber Watershed Alliance met at the Cold Creek Conservation Area on Tuesday, September 21, 2010. Chair lain Craig called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. PRESENT Mary Louise Ashbourne Member Jim Bradley Member Sharon Bradley Member Heather Broadbent .Member lain Craig Member Dianne Douglas - Member Bert Duclos Member Robert Glover Member Jerry Gorman Member Alyson Hazlett Member Ron Hingston Member Gaspar Horvath Member Michael Hoy Member Bill Humber Member David Hutcheon Member Barb Imrie Member Lisette Mallet Member Mike Mattos Member Madeleine McDowell Member Joanne Nonnekes Member Lynda Rogers Member Lynn Short 0 Member Jason Stabler Member Barry Westhead Member Richard Whitehead Member GUESTS Laura Campbell Township of King Lory Capoccia Resident Jim Davenport Resident Yamille Rijo Cold Creek Stewardship Geoff Simpson Cold Creek Stewardship G50 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 September 21, 2010 STAFF Sonia Dhir Project Manager, Humber Noah Gaetz Supervisor, Terrestrial Natural Heritage Steve Joudrey Coordinator, Conservation Lands Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber Kasey Livington Coordinator, Humber Stewardship Megan Price Coordinator, Source Water Protection Susan Robertson Project Manager, Humber Nicholas Schulz Communications Consultation Coordinator Clara Stewart - Robertson Watershed Resources Planner, Humber Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber RES. #G22/10 - MINUTES Moved by: Seconded by: David Hutcheon Heather Broadbent THAT the minutes of meeting #2/10, held on June 15, 2010, be approved CARRIED CORRESPONDENCE (a) Letter to the City of Brampton, dated June 22, 2010 re: Claireville Conservation Area. (b) Letter from the Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition to the Ministry of the Environment, dated July 15, 2010, re: Ontario Water Opportunities and Water Conservation Act. (c) Letter from the Don Watershed Regeneration Council to the Ministry of the Environment, dated July 16, 2010, re: Ontario Water Opportunities and Water Conservation Act. RES. #G23/10 Moved by: Seconded by: David Hutcheon Madeleine McDowell THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G51 PRESENTATIONS (a) Cold Creek Conservation Area: Overview and Educational Programming Laura Campbell of the Township of King made a presentation on the Cold Creek Conservation Area. The presentation focussed on the following: • recreational opportunities including rock climbing, ropes, orienteering; • special events such as "Feast of Fields ", "Arts Society King ", Cold Creek Open House; • programs including summer camp, archery, cross country skiing; • projects include trail and directional signage, tree monitoring, interpretive guide through the Cold Creek Stewardship Committee; • barn on the property will be designated based on Bob Hulley's research. Township of King Council approved the designation. (b) Source Water Protection Megan Price, TRCA's External Communications Coordinator, made a presentation on Source Water Protection. The presentation focussed on the following: • background; • The Walkerton Inquiry; • timelines and workplan; • assessment report; • wellhead protection area /intake protection zones; • prescribed drinking threats; • open houses' • source protection plans due in 2012. (c) Terrestrial Invasive Plant Strategy Noah Gaetz, TRCA's Supervisor of Terrestrial Natural Heritage made a presentation on the Terrestrial Invasive Plant Strategy. The presentation focussed on the following: • defining invasive species; • TRCA management of terrestrial invasive species; • impacts of invasive species; • current state of infestation. G52 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 RES. #G24/10 - Moved by: Seconded by: CLAIREVILLE CA MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE To highlight the major changes made to the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan. Heather Broadbent Lisette Mallet THAT the 2010 Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan Update be approved by the Humber Watershed Alliance CARRIED BACKGROUND At Humber Watershed Alliance meeting #1/09, held on January 20, 2009, Resolution #G2/09 was adopted which states, in part: THAT the final version of the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan Update be brought to the Humber Watershed Alliance for endorsement. Claireville Conservation Area (CCA) is an 838 hectare (2,100 acre) parcel of land owned by the TRCA. This includes 747.51 hectares of land and approximately 90 hectares of the Claireville Reservoir. It is located in the West Humber subwatershed and totals almost 15 per cent of the lands owned by the TRCA in the Humber River watershed. Within the CCA, the Salt Creek converges with the West Humber River, north of Regional Road 107 (also known as Queen Street East). The CCA is located in the City of Brampton, Regional Municipality of Peel (728 hectares of land) and the City of Toronto (19 hectares of land). The CCA lands are bounded by Finch Avenue to the south, Goreway Drive to the west and Highway 427 to the east. Highway 407, Steeles Avenue and Regional Road 107 (Queen Street East) transect the property, and Highway 50 is located just east of the area. The City of Mississauga abuts the property to the southwest and the City of Vaughan in the Regional Municipality of York abuts the property to the northeast. The CCA is one of the largest tracts of land that the TRCA owns. It contains significant natural and cultural heritage features. It is highly accessible to the public and has recreation, tourism and education facilities and programs. It is an integral part of the Toronto Region's natural heritage system, cultural heritage fabric and recreation destinations. In 1990, the TRCA closed the CCA to public vehicle access for financialreasons. However, sections of the property that are leased to private interests (Claireville Ranch and Wild Water Kingdom) or run by the TRCA (Indian Line Campground) as a specialized business remain open. Access has since been limited to pedestrians and those accessing the leased areas. At Meeting #2/97 of the TRCA Board, held on April 4, 1997, RES. #A46/97 was adopted as follows: September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G53 THAT the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan, dated February 28, 1997, as attached, be approved; The 1997 management plan for the CCA provided a context for the property by reviewing land uses and relevant plans, studies, project and proposals for TRCA, the CCA and the municipalities. Its analysis of the land uses at the CCA was used in conjunction with an ecosystem framework to develop land management zones and guidelines for the property. Many of the projects that have been implemented at the CCA since 1997 are direct results of the recommendations put forth in the management plan. The management plan has also been used as a resource for other planning projects in the local area. Some of the major accomplishments that are associated with the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan (1997) are: • Habitat restoration • Vegetation management • Community planting events and stewardship • Outreach education programs • Public use • Trail head signs installation • Site protection and securement • Archaeological investigations • Heritage plaque installation • Deer inventory program • Debris removal • Various monitoring programs. Since the endorsement of the CCA Management Plan in 1997, the area surrounding the CCA has been subject to increased development in accordance with Regional and Municipal Official Plans. The CCA remains one of the largest publicly owned natural greenspaces in the Humber River Watershed, within the GTA. To ensure that management decisions for the CCA are based on current information, the 1997 management plan recommended that the document be reviewed approximately every five years. The review was postponed so that it could incorporate TRCA's new Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy and the latest biological inventories and assessments. In addition, the CCA site has been experiencing increased pressures from surrounding industrial and residential development (Section 2.1.2), and for development of the CCA site for public use and commercial purposes (Section 2.1.1). Updating the management plan was done in consultation with a number of people and organizatipns including the Humber Watershed Alliance members and Friends of Claireville members. The cities of Brampton, Mississauga, Toronto and Vaughan, and the Regional Municipality of Peel were also offered the opportunity to provide input. The City of Brampton provided detailed comments. The revised management plan was also presented to the Brampton Environmental Planning Advisory Committee. Progress updates were provided to the Claireville Stewardship Committee and the Humber Watershed Alliance as the revised plan was developed. A public information session was held to present the draft updated G54 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 management plan to the public. Local residents and other partners will be informed of the final updated management plan at the completion of the process. Members of the Humber Watershed Alliance and the Claireville Stewardship Committee emphasized the need to preserve and enhance the areas north of Steeles Avenue, especially north of Regional Road 107 to the northern boundary of the property. The original management plan states that environmental considerations are paramount and the actions since the plan's endorsement in 1997 have reinforced this position. The updated management plan honours this same philosophy. Consultation Humber Watershed Alliance The West Humber Subcommittee /Claireville Subcommittee of the Humber Watershed Alliance assisted in updating the CCA Management Plan. At the time of update, the committee consisted of representatives from the following groups and municipalities: • Architectural Conservancy of Ontario • Councils of the Cities of Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto • Friends of Claireville • Residents from Brampton, Caledon, Toronto and Vaughan • West Humber Naturalists • TRCA. The committee reviewed the 1997 management plan, made editorial suggestions, and recommended additions, deletions and corrections. The Subcommittee's primary suggestions were to remove the Commercial land management zone at McVean Drive and Ebenezer Road, and avoid trail impacts on interior forest habitat. Municipal Partners The CCA is an integral piece of Brampton's environmental and social fabric. Consequently, the City of Brampton contributed to the update of the CCA management plan by reviewing and commenting on drafts of the updated management plan, contributing to the development of strategic vision, goals and objectives, assisting with the inter - regional trail alignment, and facilitating a public information session. At meeting #3/10 of The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority held on April 30, 2010 the Mayor of Brampton made a delegation to emphasize the City's interest in the CCA. At that same meeting, the following was adopted by Resolution #A46/10. THAT above -noted presentation (a) be heard and received; THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) approve, in principle, the following motion, subject to staff reviewing and reporting back to the Authority on its implementation and how it will be incorporated into the management plan: THAT TRCA identify the Claireville Conservation Area as an Urban Forest; September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G55 THAT TRCA support the integration of Claireville into the environmental, social and cultural fabric of the City of Brampton; THAT TRCA prepare a strategic vision, in partnership with the City of Brampton and other interested municipalities, to define a long term, environmental framework to guide the future planning of Claireville; THAT TRCA consult and engage municipal and community partners to protect and restore Claireville; THAT TRCA manage and program Claireville with a nature first philosophy to restore and enhance the environmental sustainability of the local and regional ecosystem; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA ban future development and land use activities in Claireville Conservation Area that will affect the ecological health and diversity of Claireville's natural heritage system. This delegation and resolution reinforced the value that City of Brampton places on the CCA as an important part of the natural heritage system, a cultural heritage resource and an important recreational destination for City of Brampton residents. General Public At the outset of the management plan update process, it was agreed that public use, enjoyment and stewardship of the CCA would be important to the community. Public consultation was facilitated by additional working group members of the original stakeholders who helped develop the 1997 document, and by the opportunity for input to the updated management plan at Claireville Stewardship Committee and Humber Watershed Alliance meetings. A public meeting was held in June 2010 to present and receive input on the updated management plan. This meeting yielded valuable insights into the key issues for the general public. Overall, the meeting went well and TRCA was satisfied with the support it received from the public for the management plan. However, some individuals were not in favour of the proposed public pedestrian trail. Plan Description The plan for the CCA is a comprehensive management plan to guide future use of this conservation area and, when approved by the TRCA Board, will replace the 1997 version. New policies, plans and other studies as well as current land management planning techniques were considered in the updating of the management plan. Key changes are: • Vision statement • Revised principles, goals and objectives A Site Securement and Protection Plan with associated mapping An Implementation Section Removal of the commercial /office zone Addition of a heritage and agriculture zone Inter - regional trail route G56 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 September 21, 2010 • No dogs off leash area The update to the CCA management plan addresses public use pressures, natural habitat conservation and enhancement, cultural heritage preservation, property securement, community stewardship and conservation education at the CCA. It supports a number of TRCA initiatives, including The Living City vision, the Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy and Pathways to a Healthy Humber, providing a strong link to the regional greenspace system. New and updated policies, plans and other studies from Local and Regional Municipalities, and the Province of Ontario are also incorporated. Of particular importance are the City of Brampton's McVean Farm Site Heritage Designation and Brampton's PathWays Master Plan. Plan Vision, Management Principles and Management Recommendations Vision A strategic vision, guiding management principles and goals define the purpose of a property and focus the management of a property towards achievement of the vision. The update to the CCA Management Plan supports TRCA's vision for The Living City - a place where human settlement can flourish in nature's beauty and diversity. Based on input from partners, stakeholders and the public, the following statement has been developed to reflect a vision of CCA in the next 50 years and to provide strategic direction of the updated management plan. Claireville Conservation Area is an oasis for wildlife and people - a healthy, diverse urban forest and one of the largest natural corridors in a major city region. It is a tourism destination where the natural and cultural heritage resources are protected and restored through partnerships and community -based stewardship. Visitors enjoy year - round nature -based recreation and education experiences while respecting the unique environmental features. Management Principles In support of achieving this vision for the CCA, management principles and objectives have been developed for inclusion in the updated management plan for the CCA. These were also developed in consultation with same group of stakeholders that was involved in developing a vision for the CCA. The principles are overarching statements for management of the CCA required to achieve the vision, while the goals provide further clarification on how the principles should be actualized at the CCA. Management Principle 1) A natural environment management philosophy shall be paramount at the CCA. Management Principle 2) Land management activities shall implement sustainable best practices and strive to eliminate, minimize and mitigate adverse impacts to natural and cultural heritage features, functions and linkages. Management Principle 3) Land uses shall conform to land management zone criteria and targets. September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G57 Management Principle 4) The CCA shall be integrated into the environmental, social and cultural fabric of the City of Brampton, City of Toronto, Region of Peel and neighbouring municipalities. Management Principle 5) Residents, local community groups, municipalities, businesses and other agencies shall have opportunities to assist in the planning and stewardship of the CCA. Management Recommendations Management recommendations provide actions to achieve the vision, principles and goals. The principles and goals are consistent with the guiding principles established in the 1997 management plan. Some of the key management recommendations include, but are not limited to, the following: General Land Management • Focus high intensity public uses south of Steeles Avenue in order to limit the impact on natural habitat. Limited low to moderate impact public uses may be permitted in Public Use Zones between Steeles Avenue and Regional Road 107. Terrestrial Resources • Implement the Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy in the CCA by protecting the land base and restoring and /or enhancing habitat wherever possible. Aquatic Resources • Identify instream barriers and assess stream crossings for fish passage. • Assess populations of priority species and implement appropriate species recovery strategies, in particular that of the Redside Dace. Cultural Heritage Resources • Preserve the heritage attributes of the McVean farm site. • Develop a conservation, restoration and adaptive re -use plan for the McVean double English Wheat Barn. Nature -based Public Use • Develop a detailed plan for a formal trail system at the CCA. • Implement the inter - regional trail as per the alignment and features proposed in the updated management plan in conjunction with the City of Brampton and the City of Toronto. • Provide interpretive signs along the trails and at other points of interest to enhance the visitor experience. Conservation Education • Maintain the lease agreement with the Toronto District School Board for the Etobicoke Field Studies Centre. G58 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 September 21, 2010 Stewardship and Outreach • Continue to maintain and support effective community and partner stewardship of the CCA. Operations and Conservation Area Management, • Adhere to the management criteria related to parks and greenspaces established by the Audubon Society of Canada. • Follow and enforce all TRCA policies, including the TRCA Policy and Operational Procedures for Managing Domestic Animals, the TRCA Policy for Managing Hazard Trees, the TRCA Pest Management Policy, and Urban Agriculture Policy, Guidelines and Operating Procedures. • Develop an Emergency Preparedness Plan for the CCA. Conservation Land Use and Management • Maintain residential leases near the Claireville Dam and the Claireville Ranch. • Mitigate the negative effects of the surrounding land use, including unauthorized trail proliferation, invasive and exotic vegetation species incursion, and encroachment and illegal use of conservation lands. • Decommission structures on former rental properties. • Investigate potential uses for the former Robinson house, which has been deemed to have heritage value. • New and renovated facilities at the CCA should incorporate LEED design and development principles and requirements in order to ensure minimal ecological impact on the surrounding area of the CCA. • Implement property line identification, securement and protection plans in conjunction with the Cities of Brampton and Toronto. • Undertake regular patrols to curb illegal poaching and dumping on the property. Implementation, Monitoring and Review of the Management Plan • Monitor all land Management zones regularly for terrestrial natural heritage and public use indicators. • Review and update the plan as necessary. Plan Implementation Implementation of the update management plan will begin immediately with recommended ' projects scheduled to begin in 2011 and continue for the next 10 years. TRCA will partner with the Cities of Brampton and Toronto, the Regional Municipality of Peel, the Friends of Claireville, the Humber Watershed Alliance and private partners to fully implement the updated management plan. In addition, TRCA will rely on these partners to cooperate on funding applications to private organizations, municipal governments, and provincial and federal ministries. RATIONALE The current management plan for Claireville Conservation Area was prepared in 1997. One of the recommendations within the plan was that the plan be reviewed and updated as required approximately every five years. The review was postponed until this time so that it could incorporate the TRCA's new Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy and the latest biological inventories and assessments. September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 G59 Since the endorsement of the 1997 CCA management plan, the CCA and its surrounding area have been subject to increased development pressure. In addition, there have been changes in public use, recreation and outdoor education trends and climate change continues to play a more significant role in environmental protection. The CCA remains a natural oasis in the urbanizing landscape of Brampton, Peel and the GTA. The need to conserve this greenspace and to incorporate recent TRCA strategic plans and policy directions prompted a formal updating of the management plan. TRCA staff has led the update of the management plan with input from the Humber Watershed Alliance, TRCA's, municipal partners and the public. The updated management plan has received endorsement from City of Brampton staff The management recommendations have been integrated with Pathways to a Healthy Humber (2008) and are consistent with TRCA's Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program, the Strategy for Public Use of Conservation Authority Lands, the Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy, as well as The Living City vision and with the City of Brampton's Official Plan (2006), PathWays Master Plan (2002) and other strategic planning documents. In addition, the management plan will help to address property management and public safety issues, establish appropriate environmental protection and regeneration techniques and maintain a sense of stewardship among users and adjacent land owners. The Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan Update will guide the management of the CCA for the next 25 years and will be reviewed as required to respond to changes in the management of the CCA. Minor revisions include those that are consistent with the original stated vision, goals and objectives to protect the natural, cultural, recreational and educational values of the property, and do not require an extensive public consultation process. If major revisions are necessary to reflect changing environmental, social or economic conditions, they will only be made after consultation with affected groups and individuals, and will be subject to a public consultation process. TRCA will seek endorsement of subsequent amendments and updates to the CCA management plan from the Cities of Brampton and Toronto and the Regional Municipality of Peel. To facilitate this endorsement, TRCA staff will consult with municipal staff and council representatives throughout the duration of the management planning process. Through diligent implementation of this plan, the CCA will be further enhanced as a valuable environmental, recreational and educational resource for residents of the Greater Toronto Area. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE • Seek approval of the plan from the City of Brampton. • TRCA staff to publish the updated management plan. • TRCA will send copies of the updated management plan to the Region of Peel, City of Brampton and City of Toronto and request that the document be used in land use planning and other watershed management decisions. • TRCA and the Humber Watershed Alliance will implement the updated management plan, future planning and specific actions to achieve the objectives of the plan. G60 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 TRCA and the Humber Watershed Alliance will utilize the updated management plan to assist with land stewardship, and to respond to land use planning documents. FINANCIAL DETAILS Management plan implementation details will begin to be developed in 2010 and capital budgets will be prepared and submitted for some initial works starting in 2011. RES. #G25/10 - Moved by: Seconded by: CLAIREVILLE CONSERVATION AREA INTER - REGIONAL TRAIL To update the members on the planning and implementation of the inter- regional trail at Claireville Conservation Area. Heather Broadbent Lisette Mallet THAT the staff report on the inter - regional trail at Claireville Conservation Area be approved by the Humber Watershed Alliance. RES. #G26/10 AMENDMENT Moved by: Seconded by: Madeleine McDowell Dianne Douglas THAT staff be requested to incorporate the Canadian Heritage Rivers System (CHRS) logo and Humber identifier on all future signage at Humber River watershed facilities and on all future Humber - related marketing material; AND FURTHER THAT staff be asked to help organize a paddle and hiking event for the Humber Watershed Alliance at the Claireville Conservation Area in the spring of 2011 which would include a hike of the new inter - regional trail and a paddle from the reservoir to the horse ranch. THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED THE MAIN MOTION, AS AMENDED, WAS CARRIED BACKGROUND • Claireville Conservation Area (CCA) is an 838 hectare (2,100 acre) parcel of land owned by the TRCA. This includes 747.51 hectares of land and approximately 90 hectares of the Claireville Reservoir. It is located in the West Humber subwatershed and totals almost 15 per cent of the lands owned by the TRCA in the Humber River watershed. Within the CCA, the Salt Creek converges with the West Humber River, north of Regional Road 107 (also known as Queen Street East). September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G61 The CCA is located in the City of Brampton, Regional Municipality of Peel (728 hectares of land) and the City of Toronto (19 hectares of land). The CCA lands are bounded by Finch Avenue to the south, Goreway Drive to the west and Highway 427 to the east. Highway 407, Steeles Avenue and Regional Road 107 (Queen Street East) transect the property, and Highway 50 is located just east of the area. The City of Mississauga abuts the property to the southwest and the City of Vaughan in the Regional Municipality of York abuts the property to the northeast. The CCA is one of the largest tracts of land that the TRCA owns. It contains significant natural and cultural heritage features. It is highly accessible to the public and has recreation, tourism and education facilities and programs. It is an integral part of the Toronto Region's natural heritage system, cultural heritage fabric and recreation destinations. In 1990, the TRCA closed the CCA to public vehicle access for financial reasons. However, sections of the property that are leased to private interests or run by the TRCA as a specialized business remain open. Access has since been limited to pedestrians and those accessing the leased areas. Inter - regional Trail at Claireville Conservation Area One of the key additions to the updated management plan is the selection of an inter - regional trail route through the CCA that will connect Toronto to the City of Brampton's trail system. The City of Brampton's PathWays Master Plan (2002) identifies the CCA as a key trail gateway to Brampton from Mississauga, Toronto and Vaughan. This concept is supported by TRCA and reinforced with TRCA's desire to create an inter - regional trail alignment in the West Humber River watershed. The CCA is currently well -used by people who walk, hike, cycle, and even horseback ride at the Claireville Ranch. No authorized public trails exist in the CCA at present, although the former park road does provide a main passageway. Consultations have concluded and an inter - regional trail alignment has been selected. The inter - regional trail alignment will dictate access points, signage and related facilities in order to achieve the management plan goals and objectives until such time as a detailed trail master plan is prepared. The more detailed trail plan will include secondary trails linking to points of interest and the community, additional access points, trails identified for closure, and how trail hazards will be managed. Alignment and Design The inter - regional trail will form the centerpiece of the trail system at the CCA with additional loop and specialized trails providing users the opportunity to explore the CCA. The 12 kilometre inter - regional trail will be a part of the western branch of the Humber River Inter- regional Trail system. It supports TRCA strategies for inter - regional trail connections through its watersheds, as well as the City of Brampton's Pathways Master Plan (2002). The trail alignment was subject to environmental review and has received support from TRCA and City of Brampton staff. Most of the inter - regional trail alignment follows the CCA's existing roads left over from when the CCA was an active conservation park, including the park road and the closed sections of Indian Line Road, Gorewood Drive and Claireville Conservation Road. This alignment allows G62 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 September 21, 2010 the trail to be in previously disturbed, open areas through much of the park. In the Ebenezer Resource Management Tract section of the CCA, informal trails form the basis for the inter- regional trail route. The selection of an appropriate trail alignment is more difficult in this section because of the larger number of tributaries and steep hills. Built infrastructure, such as footbridges and stairs may be required; however, the proposed alignment attempts to keep costs to a minimum by reducing the need for these built features. The inter - regional trail will be designated multi -use. The trail will be designed to meet TRCA's combined use guidelines established in TRCA's Trail Planning & Design Guidelines: A Handbook for an Inter - regional Trail System in the Greater Toronto Area (MTRCA, 1992) The section of trail through the Ebenezer Resource Management Tract will also meet the City of Brampton's trail design standards and requirements for bridge width and restrictions and trail base construction. Trail uses should include walking, hiking, cycling, dog - walking, cross - country skiing and snowshoeing. Appropriate infrastructure to support the trails, such as parking lots and trail head signs, should be provided and areas for such have been designated Table 1: Summary of TRCA combined use trail design and construction guidelines •®esitibiCona i< i frait0 ., ra afiik iffier line allitalli v use }° Surface Type stone fines Desirable Grade 3 — 5% Maximum Sustained Grade 7 — 8% Minimum Clearing Width 4.0 metres Minimum Clearing Height 3.0 metres Trail Length (+ refers to no real maximum) minimum 2 kilometres maximum 10 kilometres+ Tread Width 3.0 metres The City of Brampton staff has indicated they will maintain the inter - regional trail and associated bridge in the Ebenezer Resource Management Tract. A trail agreement should be signed by TRCA and the City of Brampton to reflect this agreement and should also include any other clauses for trail management that the TRCA deems necessary. The proposed trail also links the CCA trails with those in the neighbouring municipalities. The City of Brampton has an extensive neighbourhood pathway system in the Claireville area. In addition, the City of Brampton has installed public benches in the Valleycreek subdivision. TRCA has posted signs to delineate its property boundary in the area. As noted in the CCA's Site Securement and Protection Plan (Chapter 4), unauthorized access continues to occur at these points. The inter - regional trail alignment takes advantage of these points and provides a formal entrance point to the inter - regional trail at one of the Valleybrook development's vistas. Fencing should be erected along the TRCA property boundary at the location of the other vistas from the Valleybrook development. In addition to the Brampton pathways, a trail along the Humber River in the City of Toronto ends just downstream from the Claireville Reservoir. The Highway 427 road widening design process is underway. TRCA is working with the City of Toronto through SNC Lavalin (a consultant to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation) to include a pedestrian trail alignment and design for the linkage from the City of Toronto trail to the CCA's inter - regional trail as part of the September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 G63 design process already taking place. It is hoped that SNC Lavalin can complete this design work in accordance with TRCA trail design guidelines and Toronto's multi -use trail standards in conjunction with the redesign of Hwy. 427, and that the Ministry will tender the trail construction through the highway's right of way as part of their construction schedule. The design and construction of this trail connection from Toronto to the inter - regional trail alignment along the Claireville Dam and Indian Line Road would be subject to City of Toronto funding. Over and above a route, a number of other basic features have been identified on the inter- regional trail alignment. They include eight access points with five primary and three secondary trail heads, four parking lots (Queen Street, Regional Road 50, Gorewood Drive and Indian Line Road), two gates, two new engineered bridges across rivers (30 and 40 metres), one footbridge (two metres), and one staircase. Primary trail heads would be at or close to parking areas and would include signs with a map of the trail system, trail rules and emergency contact information as well as other promotional and educational materials. Secondary trail heads would have signs with a map of the trail system, trail rules and emergency contact information. The inter - regional trail is identified in the City of Brampton's Pathways Master Plan. The City of Brampton has allocated funds to construct the inter - regional trail in the CCA between Regional Road 107 and Cottrelle Boulevard that will meet both TRCA and City of Brampton trail standards. Trail construction is scheduled to be initiated and completed in 2011. Comprehensive Trail Plan for Claireville Conservation Area A major recommendation in the updated management plan for the CCA is the development of a comprehensive trail plan for the site. As previously mentioned, the inter - regional trail is but one component of a trail system for the CCA. A more comprehensive trail plan is necessary to provide detailed secondary trail alignments, permitted uses, signage locations, closures and management strategies. Trail Closures Even though no formal public trails exist at the CCA, the property is well used by people who walk, hike, walk dogs, cycle, and ride horseback. Some of these trails traverse sensitive flora and /or fauna habitat, thereby compromising the natural heritage system at the CCA. Closure of existing trails through sensitive habitat and rehabilitation of such areas will be an important component of trail plan implementation. Although exact trail closures have yet to be identified through the comprehensive trail planning process, trail closure strategies will include the use of signage (to identify that the trail is closed and the reason for closure), brush piles and native plantings. Trail closures, with the exception of those trails that are immediately affecting sensitive flora and fauna habitats or cultural heritage features, may be delayed until a detailed trail plan for the CCA is developed. Hazards and Emergency Response Mitigating trail hazards is done through active trail auditing under the TRCA's Conservation Land Care program. Hazardous tree removal along trail routes is subject to the standards and guidelines established in the TRCA's Policy for Managing Hazard Trees and the associated Operational Procedures for Managing Hazard Trees. All trail hazards are removed once they are identified. G64 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 Currently no Emergency Response Procedures for the CCA have been formalized. The emergency response plan will be completed once the comprehensive trail plan is developed. A draft emergency response plan should be provided to local EMS, Fire and Police units in the interim. Consultation The inter - regional trail alignment was subject to the same consultation process as the updated management plan. This included review and comments by the Humber Watershed Alliance (West Humber and Claireville Subcommittees), municipal partners (the Regional Municipality of Peel, the City of Brampton, the City of Toronto, the City of Mississauga and the City of Vaughan), partners including the Friends of Claireville and the Claireville Ranch, and the general public. This consultation provided TRCA with further input on the trail alignment and design. The West Humber Subcommittee's review of the 1997 management plan yielded the recommendation to avoid trail impacts on interior forest habitat. The City of Brampton indicated that the trail is an important component of the trail network in Brampton and that they wanted to connect the neighbouring residential development to the trail system at the CCA via the vista points within the development. The Friends of Claireville indicated that they wanted only a primitive footpath in the Ebenezer Resource Management Tract. However, TRCA and the City of Brampton believe that a wider trail is necessary to accommodate public trail demands in the CCA. The environmental report prepared by TRCA reviewed the proposed trail alignment and design in light of the natural and cultural features of the area. The trail alignment and design do not compromise any natural feature or function. Implementation The City of Brampton has allocated $500,000.00 in 2010 towards the construction of the inter- regional trail in the Ebenezer Resource Management Tract of the CCA. The majority of the remaining portion of the inter - regional trail follows the old park gravel road. Therefore limited construction will take place north of Hwy. 107 at this time. Much of the effort will be focussed on the placement of way- finding signs (post markers). Interpretive signs may be placed along the trail as well. Some of the proposed trail alignment requires the construction of stairs and bridges. This will take some time to set aside funds to build these structures. The TRCA will work with the Humber Watershed Alliance, the City of Brampton, the City of Toronto, the Regional Municipality of Peel and its other partners to find funding for the construction of the inter - regional trail and associated amenities. It is anticipated that construction will begin in 2011 and will be completed within five years. September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 G65 RES. #G27/10- SOURCE WATER PROTECTION Update on Source Water Protection. Moved by: Seconded by: Lynda Rogers Heather Broadbent THAT the staff report and presentation on Source Water Protection be received; AND FURTHER THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance be invited to review the 'Draft Assessment Report: Toronto and Region Source Protection Area', providing any comments to the CTC Chair, in writing, by October 20, 2010 CARRIED BACKGROUND Following the tragedy in Walkerton (May, 2000) when the town's drinking water became contaminated with a specific strain of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Campylobacter bacteria, the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) appointed Justice O'Connor to preside over the Walkerton Inquiry. Justice O'Connor made 121 recommendations in a two -part report, which included implementing a watershed - based, multi- barrier approach to protecting Ontario's drinking water. Many of Justice O'Connor's recommendations were implemented with the introduction of the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002 (SDWA), which dealt with the treatment, distribution, and testing of drinking water, as well as with notification protocols and the training of operators. In 2006, the Clean Water Act (CWA) was introduced to address Justice O'Connor's recommendations pertaining to source water protection. Source water protection is considered the first step in the multi- barrier approach to ensuring safe drinking water. Other barriers address treatment, distribution, monitoring, and responses to emergencies, but O'Connor stressed that protecting water sources was the best, most cost - effective way to ensure clean drinking water. The CWA, which came into effect in July 2007, sets the legal framework that ensures communities are able to protect their municipal drinking water supplies by developing collaborative, locally driven, science -based protection plans. Central to developing these plans is the identification of potential risks (or threats) to local water sources in an Assessment Report. DRAFT PROPOSED ASSESSMENT REPORT: TRSPA At SPC Meeting #6/10 held on September 14, 2010, the CTC Source Protection accepted the "Draft Proposed Assessment Report: Toronto and Region Source Protection Authority ". The report identifies 494 significant drinking water threats and a number of moderate and low drinking water threats in the Toronto and Region Source Protection Area. The CTC SPC must develop policies which mitigate significant drinking water threats and may develop policies which address moderate and low threats to municipal drinking water. Within the Humber Watershed there are five municipal groundwater supply systems and two municipal surface water intakes. For each of these systems, the Draft Assessment Report delineates a vulnerable area and identifies potential threats. Further details regarding the number of significant, moderate and low drinking water threats in the Humber Watershed can G66 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 be found within the report as well as in the presentation accompanying this report. Public Consultation On September 16, 2010, the Draft Proposed Assessment Report: TRSPA was released for a 35 day public consultation period. Comments received during this consultation period will be considered by the CTC Source Protection Committee as they finalize the `Proposed Assessment Report: Toronto and Region Source Protection Area' for submission to the Toronto and Region Source Protection Authority. TRCA staff invites the Humber Watershed Alliance to provide comments on this draft report by the October 20, 2010 deadline. Hard copies of the report are available for review at TRCA offices and electronic copies are available online or by request to Megan Price (mprice @trca.on.ca). Five public open houses will be scheduled during the first consultation period for residents in the TRSPA. Three of these five public open houses are planned within the Humber Watershed, these are tentatively scheduled as follows: Kleinburg /King City /Nobleton, Nobleton Community Centre, October 7, 2010 Caledon East /Palgrave /Caledon Village /Inglewood /Cheltenham, Caledon Community Complex, October 13, 2010 Mississauga (surface water focus), Clark Hall, October 14, 2010 The dates, times and locations of these open houses will be included in a letter sent to landowners who are identified within vulnerable areas as well as posted on the CTC Source Water website at www.ctcswp.ca. In November, the Proposed Assessment Report: TRSPA will be released for a second (30 day) round of consultation which will end December 16, 2010 at which point the Toronto and Region Source Protection Authority will submit the Proposed Assessment Report: TRSPA to the MOE for approval.As part of the mandated consultation process of the Assessment Report, the SPC is required to submit notification to "every person who the source protection committee believes could be engaging in one or more activities that are or would be significant drinking water threats." Residents must also be informed that the SPC believes the resident could be engaged in a significant threat activity and must be given a list of threat activities. Letters will be sent to Humber Watershed residents located in Wellhead Protection Areas (WHPAs) in the week of September 20, 2010. NEXT STEPS The Humber Watershed Alliance is invited to review the Draft Assessment Report: TRSPA and provide comments to the CTC Source Protection Committee Chair, Susan Self, by October 20, 2010. Comments can be sent: by email: sourcewater @trca.on.ca by regular mail to: Chair, TC Source Protection Committee c/o Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 5 Shoreham Dr Downsview, ON M3N 1S4 or by fax to: 416 - 661 -6898: Attention Chair, CTC Source Protection Committee September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 G67 RES. #G28/10- TERRESTRIAL INVASIVE PLANT STRATEGY Overview of TRCA's Terrestrial Invasive Plant Strategy. Moved by: Seconded by: Lynda Rogers Heather Broadbent THAT the staff report on TRCA's Terrestrial Invasive Plant Strategy be received for information CARRIED BACKGROUND The Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy (TNHSS) was developed by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in response to the continued loss of biodiversity and natural cover within its jurisdiction. The strategy, based on contemporary ecological principles, developed a set of models and tools that allowed for the development of a targeted Terrestrial Natural Heritage System (TNH System). This system comprises both existing and potential habitat which together meets TRCA's targets for native biodiversity and sets the foundation for a restored and functioning natural system within the Toronto region. The strategy document and the TNH System have been finalized and were approved by the TRCA board in 2007. Since that time, TRCA has been working to implement the TNH System. The following provides some examples of the work being undertaken: • Land securement; • Municipal Official Plan review input; • Ecosystem Recovery Planning; • Urban Forest Studies; • Climate Change Adaptation; and • Terrestrial Invasive Plant Strategy Invasive alien species are identified as the second most significant threat to biodiversity, after habitat loss, world wide. TRCA's watersheds are no exception. Consequently, there is a need to devise a long -term, broad scale, and achievable strategic plan to prevent, contain, and eradicate the existing and potential threat from invasive plant species. The overall goal of this study is to complement and coordinate the ongoing efforts of invasive species management at the TRCA. The approach is based on sound ecological principals and pragmatic management considerations. Specifically, the major objectives of this study are: • . To assess the status of invasive plants within the TRCA's jurisdiction; • To identify strategic areas for invasive plant management within the TRCA's jurisdiction; • To help ensure a coordinated and effective approach to invasive plant management at TRCA. G68 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 Status of TIPS infestation Based on TRCA data, most of the surveyed area is infested by some form and intensity of invasive plants. Most of the infestation occurs in the lower quality habitat types. Only a very small portion (5 %) of the surveyed area that was infested was within high quality vegetation communities. Most of these communities were under light infestation. Since it is generally accepted that invasive management is most effective at the lowest level of infestation, this analysis revealed that there are substantial opportunities within the TRCA's jurisdiction for strategic management of invasive plants with high prospects of success. This analysis also successfully identified habitat types most threatened by infestation. The classes with >80% of their area severely infested by invasive plants were mostly uncommon classes within the jurisdiction such as sand barren, open dune, beach, barren, and treed fen classes. Many of these habitat types are represented by only a few hectares within our entire jurisdiction. This helps to identify priority areas for management. Strategic areas for invasive plant management The strategic areas for general invasive plant management were highlighted by identifying the highest functioning natural areas in the jurisdiction and matching this with areas of light infestation. Results indicated that the proportion of light infestation was higher in higher functioning areas (about 5000 ha) suggesting that a substantial portion of higher functioning areas can still be managed for invasive species with high prospects for success. To narrow the results, about 142 ha was found to be lightly infested in the highest functioning areas located in the north Humber and north Duffins Creek Watershed highlighting the top -tier strategic areas for management. In addition, a small portion (1 ha) of severe infestation was also shown to be present in the highest functioning area and was identified to be in Caledon East and the Duffins Creek mouth. This information can advise the decision making process to evaluate whether it is worth allocating the amount of resources to manage these severely infested areas by weighing in the site importance value, level of effort needed, and the prospects for success. Coordination of TRCA invasive plant management A third aspect of the Terrestrial Invasive Plant Strategy is to help ensure an effective and coordinated approach to invasive plant management. In this regard the following actions are moving forward: • Establishment of an internal TRCA working group. This working group helps to direct TRCA actions on invasive plant management; • Removal guidelines are being developed for two problematic invasive plant species - Dog Strangling Vine and Buckthorn; and • A tracking database is being developed to help more fully track the location of invasive species and management actions. Summary Terrestrial invasive plants are prolific throughout much of the natural system and significantly impact the ecological function of large portions of TRCA's watersheds. There is a need to September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 G69 ensure a proactive and coordinated approach to the management of invasive plants. The Terrestrial Invasive Plant Strategy helps to fill this need. It prioritizes management locations and helps to ensure a coordinated and effective approach to management within TRCA. RES. #G29/10- Moved by: Seconded by: HUMBER RIVER WATERSHED SOCIAL MEDIA To provide an update on the progress of the Humber River, Ontario Facebook page, including an overview of Facebook terminology and privacy settings. Madeleine McDowell Sharon Bradley THAT the staff report regarding Humber River Watershed Social Media be received; THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members familiarize themselves with Facebook terminology and privacy settings for Facebook, as outlined in the staff report; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA Manager of Marketing and Sales be invited to a future Humber Watershed Alliance meeting to present an overview of social media platforms designed to assist the Humber Watershed Alliance CARRIED BACKGROUND In development of a Social Media and Communications Strategy for the Humber River watershed, Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) staff has recently established an online social networking community on Facebook under "The Humber River, Ontario" page. The purpose of this Facebook page is to increase the profile of the Humber River watershed and the Canadian Heritage Rivers System, the work of Alliance members and increase awareness around current initiatives, accomplishments and challenges while engaging in meaningful conversation. Also, through posting and distributing information online, paper printing will be reduced, helping to reduce the ecological footprint of the Humber River watershed. At meeting #2/10 of the Humber Watershed Alliance held on June 15, 2010, the Alliance requested TRCA staff to report back on the progress of the Humber River, Ontario Facebook page, including clarification of terminology used on Facebook and privacy settings. Updates Since meeting #2110, participation on the Humber River, Ontario Facebook page has nearly doubled to 43 members. TRCA staff continue to promote the page online, in publications, at events and amongst their networks. TRCA's goal is to increase membership of the page to 100 within the next year to encourage meaningful participation. Staff has also been regularly updating postings and status. Recent activity on the Facebook page includes summer event notices, event images, announcements, news articles and a few discussion items. G70 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 Facebook Terminology The following section highlights some of the basic terminology of Facebook which will help Alliance members who are unfamiliar with Facebook to get acquainted with it. Friend: A person who has joined a profile, usually by invitation. Page (Le., The Humber River, Ontario): A Facebook site intended for and created by artists, musical groups, celebrities, businesses, brands and similar entities (not individuals). Facebook members can add pages which they "like" to their profile. Only the official representative of an artist or business can create and make changes to a page. Profile: A Facebook site which displays a user's personal information and their interactions with friends. Each registered user may have only one profile. Like: A feature that appears as a Zink next to something you see on Facebook that allows users to let others know they appreciate the link, whether it be a page, photo, video, a comment, etc. News Feed: A continuous stream of updates about your "friends" activities. Status: A micro - blogging feature which allows users to inform their "friends" of their current whereabouts, actions, or thoughts. Tagging: Marking a photo or video with text that identifies the image or the person in the image. When you tag a "friend," it creates a link from their profile to the photo. Friends always have the option of removing a photo tag that they do not want linked to their account. Wall: A permanent fixture on every Facebook user's profile. It provides a place for members of your page to communicate and easily engage with your page. Wall postings that are disagreeable can always be deleted. (Source: Facebook for Dummies; http:// www. howdoifacebook .com /glossary.htm), 2008 Privacy Settings on Facebook Currently, the Humber River, Ontario Facebook Page privacy settings allow for the general public to view all information and content on the page. A Facebook page does not display anyone's, contact or personal information. In fact, even the page administrators do not have access to this information. At meeting #1/10 of the Humber Watershed Alliance, members were photographed for the purpose of using their images in Humber River watershed social media initiatives. An email request was sent to the Alliance on March 31, 2010, asking for each member's permission to use their name and image in publications, e-news blasts, TRCA website and Facebook. An Alliance member may receive exposure on the Humber Facebook Page through the posting of images, in captions, discussions and updates related to Alliance initiatives. For example, an image of an Alliance member at a community tree planting event may be profiled, or their work on a particular initiative may be mentioned. TRCA staff has made a conscious decision not to "tag" anyone in images on the page so that multiple links to the images are not created. Only the names and images of those members who have provided permission will be profiled. September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G71 Alliance members who are currently members of Facebook or those looking to join the network are encouraged to revisit their privacy settings. Using privacy options on Facebook are the best way to control the dissemination of personal information from a profile. For more information on Facebook privacy settings, please visit: ( http : / /www.facebook.com /policy.php) TRCA staff is also exploring other social media networks for watershed groups such as Yammer (www.yammer.com), TakinglTGlobal (www.tigweb.orq /) and Wiser Earth (www.wiserearth.orq/). These networks would enable subgroups to be created within the larger network, specifically designed for Alliance members which would allow for: • document/links for distribution; • member input on documents or links; • member announcements (e.g. appointment of members to subcommittees) • opinion exchange (e.g. what do members think of particular initiatives) • practical information sharing (e.g. car pooling) DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Some of the goals for the next year around social media are: • investigate options for a social media platform for Humber Watershed Alliance members. • develop a Social Media and Communications Strategy for the Humber River watershed to increase the profile of the Humber River watershed and the work of Humber Watershed Alliance members; • create subfolders on the Facebook page with images of Humber Watershed Alliance members to profile their work; • increase Facebook page membership to at least 100 within the next year to create an effective platform for participation; and • post more regular status updates, event notices and discussion topics (at least once every two weeks). RES. #G30/10- Moved by: Seconded by: PROVINCIAL POLICY STATEMENT 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. David Hutcheon Madeleine McDowell THAT the staff report on the Provincial Policy Statement review be received; THAT the final joint watershed group response be submitted to the Humber Watershed Alliance at their next meeting; G72 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 AND FURTHER THAT Peter Telford be thanked for attending the inter - watershed group meeting, held on September 1, 2010, on behalf of the Humber Watershed Alliance CARRIED BACKGROUND The Government of Ontario is conducting the required 5 -year review of the Provincial Policy Statement 2005 (PPS). The PPS sets out the Ontario government's policy direction for land use planning and development. The PPS plays a key role in Ontario's land use planning system by providing policy direction on matters of provincial interest. It provides the foundation and guidance necessary to regulate the development and use of land. For example, the PPS serves to protect Ontario's natural heritage (including wetlands, woodlands and water) as well as agricultural and cultural heritage values important to the interests of the Humber Watershed Alliance. On September 1, 2010, a TRCA inter - watershed group meeting was held consisting of members of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, the Etobicoke - Mimico Watersheds Coalition and the Humber Watershed Alliance. Mr. Peter Telford attended the meeting on behalf of the Humber Watershed Alliance. Prior to this inter - watershed meeting, members were asked to review the PPS and information on the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing website. David Burnett of TRCA provided an overview of TRCA comments on the PPS. Members then discussed all aspects of the PPS with a specific focus on Sections 2.1 Natural Heritage; 2.2 Water; and 3.1 Natural Hazards. Comments on other sections of the PPS were also addressed and will be included in the final response to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The following questions were discussed at the meeting and will be used to formulate a joint response from the watershed groups: • What policies of the current PPS are working effectively? • Are there policies that need clarification or refinement? • Are there policies that are no longer needed? • Are there new policy areas or issues that the Province needs to provide land use planning direction on? • Is additional support material needed to help implement the PPS? • Any other comments regarding the PPS? Discussion then focussed mainly on three of the six questions: a. policies that need clarification or refinement b. new policy areas or issues c. need for additional support material The following notes are arranged roughly according to these three areas. September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 G73 There is a need for improved communication of the raison d'etre of the PPS. This might be achieved by a review of the PREAMBLE (Part I) and better explanation of the linkage of the PPS with other planning instruments and the hierarchy among these instruments. For example, what status the PPS holds in disputes or conflicts over planning matters at provincial and local levels or between urban and rural interests. Although stakeholders have been invited to participate in this current 5 -year review, there seems little in the way of public consultation about the PPS. Even public consultation with respect to the review is quite limited. Part V, Section 2.2 WATER is relatively brief compared to other sections. The policy statements are tightly presented but are comprehensive and, importantly, the "watershed" is recognized as the "ecologically meaningful scale for planning ". However, there is no reference to the important tools of watershed management plans or source protection plans. The PPS should recognize explicitly the provincial requirements for source protection. An appropriate location for this reference would be in section 2.2.1(d). Part V, Section 1.6.8 WASTE MANAGEMENT and Section 1.8 ENERGY AND AIR QUALITY are very brief, especially in consideration of the importance of these subject areas to the GTA and its watersheds. Provincial legislation, policies, regulations and standards are certainly available for managing these issues and don't need to be repeated in the PPS. However, the PPS should provide better guidance to the existence and implementation of these other tools for planning purposes. • Part V, Section 1.5 PUBLIC SPACES, PARKS AND OPEN SPACE encourages the provision in urban areas of open spaces and natural settings primarily for recreation. The PPS should also encourage the recognition and provision of such urban open spaces as Natural Heritage spaces. Many of these urban open spaces are small and would not otherwise obtain designation as Provincially Significant Areas under the PPS provisions for Natural Heritage (cf. section 2.1). Also with respect to Part V, Section 1.5, the PPS should require better coordination between neighbouring municipalities in the planning of urban open space and recreation facilities in areas close to municipal boundaries. • Part V, Section 1.6.5 TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS and Section 1.6.6 TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE CORRIDORS are relatively brief and only very general guidance statements are provided. However, planning in these areas can have significant impacts on natural heritage and other features. A statement such as "Transportation and land use considerations shall be integrated at all stages of the planning process" (Subsection 1.6.5.5) gives only the broadest of guidance that is open to all sorts of interpretation. Also, with respect to Section 1.6.6 and infrastructure corridors, consideration by the PPS of more efficient and purposeful use of hydro corridors could have important benefits in both urban and rural areas. G74 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 • An improvement that could be made throughout the PPS is to integrate more of an urban agenda to the document. Provision for better recognition of small urban Natural Heritage spaces has been noted above. Section 2.3 AGRICULTURE could include recognition of, and encouragement of better planning for, urban agriculture or community gardens. • Regarding new policy areas or issues, obvious omissions from the PPS are considerations of sustainability and climate change. Planning tools that would apply to mitigation of climate change would mostly fall within the area of ENERGY AND AIR QUALITY (section 1.8). It is already noted above that this section would benefit from some expansion and consideration of climate change mitigation should be integrated into this expansion. Adaptation to climate change is a much broader planning matter and is more under the influence or control of wise planning and sustainable use of natural resources. The comprehensive nature of the adaptation issue justifies its consideration as a discrete unit within the PPS. With regard to additional support materials, there is a need for reference or implementation manuals for several sections to provide additional practical guidance and to supplement the DEFINITIONS of Part VI of the PPS. For example, MNR has recently released (in 2010) a Natural Heritage Reference Manual for Natural Heritage Policies of the PPS, 2005 edition. Similar manuals are needed to cover other PPS sections such as 2.2 WATER and 1.8 ENERGY. A formal inter - watershed group response will be prepared and submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing by October 29, 2010, a copy of which will be provided to the Humber Watershed Alliance at their next meeting. RES. #G31/10- 2010 FALL COMMUNITY EVENTS Schedule of fall community events in the Humber River Watershed. Moved by: Seconded by: Dianne Douglas David Hutcheon THAT the following schedule of fall community events be received for information; AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members be encouraged to participate in the events planned for the fall of 2010 CARRIED September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G75 BACKGROUND Throughout the year, TRCA co -hosts a variety of public events with community leaders in the Humber River watershed to engage residents in educational and hands -on, conservation - themed activities. These events connect people with their local natural environment, generate awareness of the biodiversity and cultural history of the watershed, and build community capacity. The following community events have been scheduled for this Fall. Backyard Wildlife Booth Date: Saturday, September 25 and Sunday, September 26, 2010 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Location: Caledon Equestrian Park, 200 Pine Ave., Caledon Located off Hwy. 50, just south of Hwy 9. Visit us in the "Family Village" at the Canadian Show Jumping Tournament. Learn more about reptiles and amphibians native to Ontario at this live display. Construct your very own 'toad abode' to take home and install in your garden, or explore the Humber by navigating through a 3D model of the landscape. All ages welcome, supervision required. For more information, contact: Clara Stewart- Robertson at 416- 661 -6600, extension 5325 or cstewart- robertson @trca. on. ca The McVean Date: Time: Cost: Location: Farm Harvest Table Sunday, September 26, 2010 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sit -down meal will be served at 2:00 p.m. Dessert to follow. $75 per person. Free for kids under 12. McVean Farm - 1 kilometre north of Hwy. 7 (Queen St.) on the west side of McVean Dr., Brampton Join us at noon to tour the farm, enjoy appetizers, live music, wagon rides and children's activities. Chef Yasser Qahawish, of Artisanale, will bring together a team of diverse chefs to cook a delicious four - course feast featuring the bountiful harvest from the McVean farmers and other Ontario producers. The food will be freshly picked, prepared and cooked on the farm and complimented by local wines and brews. For more information, contact: Sonia Dhir at 416- 661 -6600, extension 5291 or sdhir @trca.on.ca To purchase your tickets, contact: FarmStart at 519 - 836 -7046, extension 103 or visit www.farmstart.ca /mcveanfarm Claireville Fall Planting and Heritage Hike Date: Saturday, October 16, 2010 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Tree planting 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Heritage hike Location: Clairevile Conservation Area, Brampton Access from the Hwy. 50 entrance (north of Steeles Ave.) Join us near the Claireville Recreational Building to plant native trees and shrubs. After the planting, we will hike back in time and explore the remnants of the original 19`h century Lawrence family homestead. This short hiking route is through moderately difficult terrain. G76 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3/10 September 21, 2010 Please come prepared with sturdy footwear and sufficient water. Bring a shovel and work gloves for the tree planting, if you have them. For more information, contact: Kasey Livingston at 416 - 661 -6600, extension 5639 or klivingston @trca.on.ca Taylorwood Community Tree Planting Date: Saturday, October 23, 2010 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Location: Hwy. 50 and Columbia Way, Caledon Access from Taylorwood Ave. or Columbia Way Come out and help us enhance and monitor the local environment by planting native trees and shrubs. Build a bird box to increase habitat opportunities for wildlife. This event will be held rain or shine, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear waterproof shoes and work gloves. Extra shovels will be available, but please bring your own tools if you have them. For more information, contact: Clara Stewart- Robertson at (416)661 -6600, extension 5325 or cstewart- robertson @trca.on.ca Volunteering Peel Community Environment Day Date: Saturday, October 30, 2010 Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Location: Claireville Reservoir, Claireville Conservation Area, Brampton Access via the Indian Line Campground entrance at 7625 Finch Ave. Toronto and Region Conservation is currently exploring a new partnership opportunity with Volunteering Peel. This youth -run group aims to facilitate volunteer opportunities for students by collaborating with other organizations and to help them gain their 40 hours of community service in a fun way. About 300 high school students will spend the day planting native trees and shrubs, building bird boxes, and cleaning -up the area around the Claireville Reservoir. For more information, contact: Kasey Livingston at 416 - 661 -6600, extension 5639 or klivingston @trca.on.ca To find out more about other TRCA events taking place this fall, please visit www.trca.on.ca /events or "The Humber River, Ontario" page on Facebook. RES. #G32/10 - Moved by: Seconded by: SUBCOMMITTEE MINUTES The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Sharon Bradley Lynn Short THAT the following minutes be received: September 21, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 G77 Black Creek Subcommittee #3/10 (July 29) Claireville Subcommittee #3/10 (July 13) Heritage Subcommittee #3110 (July 14) Report Card Subcommittee #2/10 (July 7) CARRIED NEW BUSINESS Miriam Mittermaier The Chair announced the sudden passing of Miriam Mittermaier. Miriam was an active member of both the Claireville Subcommittee and Friends of Boyd. She was a long -time advocate of the Humber and she will be sorely missed. Heritage Toronto Award M. McDowell, long -time heritage advocate, will be receiving a Special Achievement Award from Heritage Toronto on October 5, 2010. CHRS Calendar, 2011 G. Wilkins was proud to report that the Humber River made the front cover of the 2011 CHRS calendar. Free copies of the calendar will be available to members of the Humber Watershed Alliance at their next meeting on December 7, 2010. Cold Creek Interpretive Guide Copies of the Cold Creek Interpretive Guides were available for sale ($10) for those interested in purchasing them. Humber Heritage Committee Event A reinactment of Lt. Gov. John Graves Simcoe's first day of his 1793 journey up the Toronto Carrying Place will be held on September 25th beginning at 9:30 am. For additional information, members are urged to contact M. McDowell. Boyd to Bindertwine Boyd Walk I. Craig will be leading a walk from Boyd CA to Bindertwine Park on Saturday, October 16th For additional information, members are asked to contact I. Craig. Humber Valley Heritage Trail Walk The HVHTA will be hosting a walk on Sunday, September 26th from 10 am to 12 noon beginning at Joker's Hill. For additional information, contact B. Westhead. G78 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #3110 September 21, 2010 King Historical Society Celebration L. Mallet invited members to celebrate the French presence in Ontario in 1650 on Saturday, September 25`h. The celebration will include voyageur songs. Member Resignation J. Stabler, a Toronto resident, announced that he was planning to resign from the Humber Watershed Alliance due to his move to Peterborough. He thanked staff and members for the opportunity to serve on the Alliance. Canadian Show Jumping K. Livingston reported that TRCA will be at the Canadian Show Jumping event from September 22 -26, 2010 which will be held at the Caledon Equestrian Park in Palgrave. Tickets are available for those members wishing to attend. DOOR PRIZE As a token of the Authority's appreciation for the members' participation on the Humber Watershed Alliance, a draw was held for the 2011 Humber calendar and a book titled "Toronto: An Illustrative History of Its First 12,000 years ". The winning tickets belonged to Mike Mattos and Ron Hingston, respectively. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:20 p.m., September 21, 2010 Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Secretary- Treasurer /L. • THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY MINUTES OF THE HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 Page G79 December 7, 2010 The Humber Watershed Alliance met at Black Creek Pioneer Village Tuesday, December 7, 2010. Chair lain Craig called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. PRESENT Arshad Ali Member Mary Louise Ashbourne Member Jim Bradley Member Sharon Bradley Member Heather Broadbent Member Mark Chambers Member Lory Capoccia Member lain Craig Member Dianne Douglas Member Bert Duclos Member Tom Fuller Member Paul Gardner Member Jerry Gorman Member Alyson Hazlett Member Gaspar Horvath Member Michael Hoy Member David Hutcheon Member Victoria Kramkowski-Epner Member Peter Lazarakis Member Lisette Mallet Member Mike Mattos Member Madeleine McDowell Member Peter Mitchell Member Joanne Nonnekes Member Sid Preece Member Lynda Rogers Member Lynn Short Member Rolande Smith Member Peter Telford Member Jane Underhill Member Bill Wilson Member Jessica Wright Member • G80 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 December 7, 2010 GUESTS Janet Wong Region of Peel STAFF Sonia Dhir Project Manager, Humber Steve Joudrey Coordinator, Conservation Lands Matt Kenel Conservation Land Planning Technician Lia Lappano Administrative Assistant, Humber Kasey Livington Coordinator, Humber Stewardship Susan Robertson Project Manager, Humber Rick Sikorski Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications . Meg St. John Coordinator, Aquatic Habitat Toronto Gary Wilkins Watershed Specialist, Humber RES. #G33/10 - MINUTES Moved by: Dianne Douglas Seconded by: Heather Broadbent THAT the minutes of meeting #3/10, held on September 21, 2010, be approved . . CARRIED • CORRESPONDENCE (a) Letter to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, dated October 18, 2010 re: Provincial Policy Statement (2005) Review RES. #G34/10 Moved by: Madeleine McDowell Seconded by: Sharon Bradley THAT the above correspondence be received CARRIED December 7, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 G81 PRESENTATIONS (a) Emerging Media Options for Public Engagement Rick Sikorski, TRCA's Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications made a presentation on the emerging media options for public engagement. The presentation focussed on the following: • • Definition of public engagement; • Public engagement process; • Benefits; • Considerations. RES. #G35/10 Moved by: Dianne Douglas Seconded by: Lynda Rogers THAT a working group be established to explore the various options available for public engagement as it relates to TRCA's watershed groups; THAT the working group include members from the various watershed groups, TRCA staff and be led by the Marketing and Communications Manager; THAT lain Craig, Sid Preece and Jessica Wright be nominated to participate on the working group to represent the Humber Watershed Alliance; THAT the Don Regeneration Council be invited to nominate three representatives to participate on the working group; THAT the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition be invited to nominate three representatives to participate on the working group; AND FURTHER THAT the representatives report back on the working group's work to their respective watershed groups on a regular basis CARRIED (b) Lower Humber River Wetland Complex • Meg St. John, TRCA's Coordinator of Aquatic Habitat Toronto, made a presentation on the Lower Humber River Wetland Complex. The presentation focussed on the following: • Preferred Alternatives from the environmental assessment; • Duffins Creek Marsh Case Study; • Lower Humber Wetland Complex Next Steps. G82 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 December 7, 2010 RES. #G36/10- LOWER HUMBER RIVER WETLAND COMPLEX To provide an update on the Lower Humber River Wetland Complex _ project in the City of Toronto. Moved by: Madeleine McDowell Seconded by: David Hutcheon THAT the presentation and,staff report on the Lower Humber River Wetland Complex be received for information CARRIED BACKGROUND The goal of the Lower Humber River Wetland Complex is to restore and enhance the natural, scenic, educational, recreational and cultural values of the Lower Humber River wetland complex. The Lower Humber River Wetland Complex is one of the four remaining coastal wetlands within the Toronto Remedial Action Plan Area. Approximately 90% of the coastal wetlands, historically known to exist in the Toronto area, have been lost to lake filling and dredging. The areas that remain are provincially significant wetlands which support many species of fish, wildlife and plants. The restoration of this coastal wetland ties in with the broader Lake Ontario Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and MNR's interests with the Canada Ontario Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes Ecosystem (COA). A Category "C" Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for MNR Resource Stewardship and Facility Development Projects has been initiated for the restoration of the Lower Humber River Wetland Complex. Category "C" projects have the potential for medium to high negative environmental effects and/or public or agency concern. The purpose of this project is to enable wetland restoration with public involvement. The study boundary stretches from the mouth of the Humber River at Lake Ontario north to Dundas Street. The EA process is expected to be completed at the end of this year with the consultants providing a report which documents what categories of projects are being recommended. In addition to the two public consultation meetings held, to date, a third may be scheduled to showcase the report and its recommendations. In future, as specific projects are proposed, their compatibility with what the EA has identified will need to be confirmed and then detailed designs can be developed for implementation. December 7, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 G83 RES. #G37/10 - HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE WORKPLAN To provide an updated work plan and status report to members of the Humber Watershed Alliance Moved by: Madeleine McDowell Seconded by: David Hutcheon THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance's updated work plan and status report (2010—2012) be approved; AND FURTHER THAT updated work plans and progress reports be brought back to the Humber Watershed Alliance, as required CARRIED BACKGROUND • The goals of the Humber Watershed Alliance are to protect, regenerate and celebrate the Humber 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 Humber watershed; • implement priority recommendations in "Legacy: A Strategy fora Healthy Humber" (1997);and the Humber River Watershed Plan:Pathways to a Healthy Humber(2008); • implement recommended actions to meet the targets identified in the Humber watershed report cards; "A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed (2000)", '2003 Humber Watershed Progress Report", and "Listen to Your River:A Report Card on the Health of the Humber River Watershed-2007'; • implement the recommendations of the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP) contained in "Clean.Waters, Clear Choices:Recommendations for Action- 1994" and strategic directions contained in subsequent RAP reports as they pertain to the Humber River watershed; • implement strategic plans such as the Wet Weather Flow Management Master Plan (Toronto) and the regions of Peel and York sustainability initiatives; • implement source water protection initiatives; • meet the challenges of climate change through mitigation and adaptation initiatives; • maintain and improve the natural and human heritage and recreational values that distinguish the Humber as a Canadian Heritage River; G84 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 December 7, 2010 • seek political support at all levels of government and foster corporate partnerships that advance the above objectives. In March 2010, the inaugural meeting of the 2010-2012 term of the Humber Watershed Alliance (HWA) was held. Meetings have since taken place on a quarterly basis with subcommittees meeting monthly or as required. At the inaugural meeting, the structure and membership of the Humber Watershed Alliance was approved with the formation of eight subcommittees as follows: • Black Creek Subcommittee; • Bolton/Nashville Management Plan Subcommittee; • Boyd/East Humber Subcommittee; • Claireville Subcommittee; • Heritage Subcommittee; • Oak Ridges Corridor Park Subcommittee; • Planning and Policy Subcommittee; • Report Card Subcommittee. At that time, a list of project priorities were identified and the subcommittees have been working diligently towards meeting their objectives. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE The Humber Watershed.Alliance 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. RES. #G38/10- 2015 PAN AMERICAN GAMES AND THE CALEDON EQUESTRIAN PARK To inform the Humber Watershed Alliane members of the status of the 2015 Pan American Games and the Caledon Equestrian Park as it relates to TRCA. Moved by: Madeleine McDowell Seconded by: David Hutcheon THAT the staff report on the 2015 Pan American Games and the Caledon Equestrian Park be received for information; AND FURTHER THAT Humber Watershed Alliance members participate in the environmental assessment process. December 7, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 G85 AMENDMENT RES. #G39/10 Moved by: Madeleine McDowell Seconded by: David Hutcheon THAT an environmental legacy which will benefit the health of the Humber watershed be considered at the time of the transaction between TRCA, Equestrian Management Group and the Town of Caledon. THE AMENDMENT WAS CARRIED THE MOTION AS AMENDED WAS CARRIED BACKGROUND At its meeting held on November 28, 2008, the Authority adopted the following resolution: THAT staff be directed to enter into negotiations with the Town of Caledon and Equestrian Management Group Inc. (EMG)regarding the extension of the existing lease of the Caledon Equestrian Park lands; THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority(TRCA) offer its full and complete support to the Town of Caledon in the Town's bid for the equestrian venue for the 2015 Pam American Games; AND FURTHER THAT the Town of Caledon, the Regional Municipality of Peel and the Pan American Games Committee be so advised. In the fall of 2009, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Greater Golden Horseshoe area was successful in their bid to host the 2015 Pan Am Games. Other bids to host these games were launched by Lima, Peru and Bogota, and Colombia. The Pan Am Games are a multi-sport event, held every four years, between competitors from all nations of the Americas. It is estimated that the overall cost of hosting the 2015 Pan American Games will be $1.7 billion. It is estimated that hosting the Pan Am Games would stimulate an estimated $2 billion in economic activity in Ontario, create 17,000 jobs and draw about 250,000 tourists to see more than 5,000 athletes compete. One opportunity for venue hosting exists in the Town of Caledon through the Equestrian Management Group (EMG) who operates the Caledon Equestrian Park in Palgrave which is located on TRCA land. The Caledon Equestrian Park annually hosts up to 16 of the most prestigious equestrian events in Canada. It can provide accommodation for nearly 1,000 horses and has five international competition rings. The park also provides facilities for the many competitors from all over the world as well as those living within Canada's largest horse community, i.e. the Caledon/King area. G86 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 December 7, 2010 This world class equestrian venue was selected as the proposed equestrian competition site for Toronto's 2008 Olympic and it also played host to the 2007 Pan American Games Selection Trials for both dressage and show jumping. This facility could host the equestrian event for the Pan Am Games as well as all of the related equestrian disciplines within the Pan American Games technical package. Existing Agreement TRCA entered into a management agreement with the Town of Caledon for the subject lands in 1978. In 1981, TRCA'permitted the lands to be licenced to Bolton Horse Shows Inc., for horse shows and related activities, subject to the provisions of the original management agreement with the Town of Caledon. In 1989, the Town was advised that due to the decrease in the number of volunteers in.recent years, Bolton Horse Shows Inc. were no longer able to operate the shows and assigned the operation to the Equestrian Management Group Inc. The assignment was in breach of the licence agreement and the Town terminated the agreement. In late 1989, the Town received a request from the EMG to enter into a licence agreement for use of the property. TRCA was involved in negotiations with the Town and EMG with regard to the use of the subject parcel of land for equestrian activities over a period of years. Both the Town and the • EMG addressed and complied with all of TRCA's concerns during the course of this negotiation process, and agreement was reached as to the form of a licence agreement for the property. TRCA entered into a licence agreement with the Town and EMG on October 31, 1997 which will terminate on August 31, 2014. Under this licence agreement, all provisions of the original management agreement between the Town and TRCA remain in force. An environmental assessment is required and public,consultations will ensue. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE • • Staff will continue to work with the Town and EMG to complete the lease negotiations and finalize the terms and conditions satisfactory to TRCA and its solicitors; • • Complete the Environmental assessment process. December 7, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 G87 RES. #G40/10- LIVING CITY REPORT CARD UPATE To update the members on the progress of the Living City Report Card and associated work. Moved by: Madeleine McDowell Seconded by: David Hutcheon THAT the staff report on the progress made to date on the Living City Report Card and associated work plan be received for information; AND FURTHER THAT the Humber Watershed Alliance members review the draft Living City Report Card and provide comments prior to or at the Alliance meeting CARRIED BACKGROUND The Living City Report Card will be published in February, 2011 and will report on parameters relevant to the Greater Toronto Area as well as some details on watersheds and the Lake Ontario waterfront within TRCA's jurisdiction. There are no changes to the six main themes since this project was last presented in July, 2010. The six topics to be discussed include: Carbon Emissions, Air Quality, Water, Waste, Land Use and Biodiversity. After much consideration and consultation with Greening Greater Toronto and various experts, the table below presents the final list of indicators, measures and the agency responsible for reporting on the indicator. In selecting these indicators serious consideration was given to criteria such as the availability of data, ability to track trends over time, understandability, relevancy and jurisdictional wide issues. Final List of Indicators and Measures Metric Indicators and Measures Carbon Total Carbon (GGT) Greenhouse Gas Emissions per Capita (GGT) Air Quality Sulphur Dioxide (GGT) Volatile Organic Compounds (GGT) Particulate Matter (GGT) Nitrogen Oxides (GGT) Water Water Quality (TRCA): Water Quality Index Water Quantity (TRCA): flood risk; %developed/and with stormwater control Water Consumption per Capita (GGT) Waste Residential Waste Diversion (GGT) Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (IC&I) Diversion (GGT) G88 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 December 7, 2010 Land use Agriculture (TRCA: food deserts, farmland conservation, lands in crop production, gross farm receipts, cost revenue ratio, commodity profile, farm operator succession Greenspace (TRCA): Hectares of greenspace per capita Urban Forest (TRCA): Leaf Area Index Green Buildings (TRCA): number and total floor space of certified green building by municipality Intensification (GGT) Biodiversity Natural Cover Quantity and Quality (TRCA): percentnatura/cover, habitat patch analysis score Terrestrial Biodiversity (TRCA): Floristic Quality Index, birds, frogs Aquatic Biodiversity (TRCA): native species richness Education (TRCA): number of school participants in outdoor education Several modifications have been made to the indicators and measures. Three new indicators- have been added to describe air quality. These include volatile organic compounds, particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. Phosphorus concentrations and algae in Lake Ontario will not be reported due to the unavailability of data. Waste diversion will be reported but not waste generated per capita. Shoreline protection has been removed as a health indicator since this is more of an action aimed at protecting or enhancing watershed conditions or safeguarding people and property. Urban intensification will be used as an indicator versus population density. For agriculture, the extent of food deserts will be presented in place of the ability to grow 10% of the region's vegetable requirements. Itis still undecided if human heritage will be presented in the report card. We are still investigating the availability of suitable information. Possible measures include the number of properties in heritage conservation districts, designated heritage structures, registered archaeological sites and visitation at"Open Door" heritage venues. The outcome of our research will dictate whether human heritage will be included in the report card. • Each indicator discussion will provide an overview of current conditions, trends, examples of key efforts aimed at improving current conditions, future targets, key steps to reach the target, and a grade. The report card will also feature a series of essays or "deep dives" on topics considered to be important issues for a sustainable city region such as waste, transportation, land use planning and design, and ecological goods and services. Greening Greater Toronto will prepare the waste and transportation essays. The Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) will prepare the land use planning and design essay, and Toronto and Region • Conservation Authority (TRCA) will prepare the essay on ecological goods and services. • Report Presentation The Living City Report Card will be presented in three different formats: • long-form report, 8.5 x 11 vertical format and approximately 60 pages in length will include one to two page spreads for each indicator; December 7, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 G89 • short-form/scorecard: an abbreviated six panel fold out which will highlight key messages and findings; and • interactive on-line presentation which will be extensively disseminated to a broader audience. The on-line version will result is a significant reduction in printing of paper products. The outline for the long form report includes: 1. Introduction (jointly signed by TRCA and GGT) 2. Definition: • characterization of geographic study area; • detailed overview of methodology; and • acknowledgements. 3. Overview of Themes and Indicator Data: • Six themes: carbon emissions, air quality, water, waste, land use and biodiversity and an overview of what they mean, why they matter, why measure them, and comparisons within the GTA/TRCA jurisdiction and with other city regions. • Each theme will include: introduction, driver tree (a visual representation of the primary parameters "driving"the various indicators), and a presentation of the indicators condition, trends if available, grade, partnerships, target and next steps. 4. Deep-Dive on Select Topics for Sustainable Communities • transportation (GGT); • waste (GGT); • land use design and planning (OPPI/TRCA); • ecological goods and services (TRCA). 5. How You Can Step Up/Call to Action • . Outlines what individuals, private sector organizations, nonprofit organizations and governments can do to address the issues identified to improve the environmental performance of the region. The report card recommends some of the major steps needed in the way of policy, investment or behavioral change needed for a healthy sustainable city region. External Contributors TRCA and GGT have engaged a wide range of external experts to contribute to many of the indicators and "deep dive"topic discussions. To name a few, OPPI will write a call to action regarding the ways in which city region planning must be done in the future. For the agriculture indicator, the Martin Prosperity Institute, Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto will be writing on the topic of food deserts which will present a compelling story about • the local food challenges facing TRCA's jurisdiction. Planscape will also present key findings and messages affecting the conventional agricultural sector in the GTA. In addition, a University of Toronto professor has undertaken extensive research on the GTA's greenhouse G90 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 December 7, 2010 gas emissions for various sectors which will presented in the report card. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE November, 2010 • Finalize design concepts. • • Edit and finalize content. • Submit content for layout. • Develop a communications strategy in partnership with GGT which will detail how the report card will be disseminated and promoted via social marketing and mail-outs leading up to and following the launch of the report card. • Select a printer company to produce the documents. December, 2010 • Develop on-line presentation. • Communications strategy to be finalized. • Initiate implementation of the communications strategy. January, 2011 • Final review of print materials. • Print materials sent for production. • Finalization of on-line presentation. • Implementation of communications strategy. February, 2011 • Launch at Toronto City Summit, February 10-11, 2011. RES. #G41/10 - SUBCOMMITTEE MINUTES The minutes of the meetings for the following subcommittees are provided for information. Moved by: Gaspar Horvath Seconded by: Lynn Short THAT the following minutes be received: Black Creek Subcommittee #4/10 and #5/10 (October 28 and November 25) Boyd/East Humber Subcommittee #3/10 and #4/10 (October 27 and November 24) Claireville Subcommittee #4/10 (November 9) Heritage Subcommittee #3/10 and #4/10 (October 13 and November 10) Living City Report Card Subcommittee #3/10 and #4/10 (November 3 and December Oak Ridges Corridor Park Subcommittee #1/10 (November 4) CARRIED December 7, 2010 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 G91 NEW BUSINESS Humber Valley Heritage Trail Hike I. Craig invited members to attend the HVHT-sponsored hike on Saturday, December 11th beginning at 9:30 a.m. This will be a 4 kilometre hike. Those interested in obtaining additional information are urged to contact I. Craig. Cold Creek Hike B. Wilson will be leading a hike at Cold Creek Conservation Area on Saturday, January 8th, 2011. Bolton Camp Acquisition J. Gorman reported that TRCA has entered into an agreement of purchase and sale for the acquisition of a large piece of property (108 ha) containing the headwaters of Cold Creek. The Humber Valley Heritage Trail Association has submitted a proposal to build a loop in the trail which would give access to the entire property resulting in many more visitors on the property. Because of this, concern has been expressed around the security of the Bolton Camp infrastructure. Some of the questions and comments raised were: • It is unknown when TRCA will take ownership of the property. • Once owners of the property, TRCA will first prepare a site securement plan and later a management plan for the property. • The property could be considered part of the Nashville Tract Management Plans. • HVHTA's input on future trails and connections will be considered. Old Mill Condo Development M. McDowell advised that the new owners are asking for an increase in the size of the condo development from 84 to 101 units. M. McDowell will be attending the Committee of Adjustment meeting on December 9th Bill 126 -An Act to Protect Ontario's Inactive Cemeteries M. McDowell invited members to write letters of support to Premier Dalton McGuinty or the Hon. John Gerretson regarding this private members bill which is currently in the provincial legislature. G92 HUMBER WATERSHED ALLIANCE #4/10 December 7, 2010 Nature Guide G. Wilkins commended the Bradleys for their work on the web version of the Nature Guide which will be circulated to all Alliance members. Humber Book It was brought to the members' attention that the Humber book was featured in the Sunday Sun last Saturday, December 4`h CHRS Calendar As a token of TRCA's appreciation, the Humber Watershed Alliance members were given a copy of the 2011 CHRS Calendar which features the Humber on the front cover. Members were encouraged to submit photos they may have of the Humber to staff so that they can be considered for future calendars. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 9:25 p.m., December 7, 2010 Adele Freeman Brian E. Denney Director, Watershed Management Secretary-Treasurer /L.