HomeMy WebLinkAboutOPS 01-22Report to
Executive Committee
Report Number: OPS 01-22
Date: January 10, 2022
From: Brian Duffield
Director, Operations
Subject: Mechanical Harvesting of Eurasian Watermilfoil Weeds in Frenchman’s Bay
-Review of Results of 2021 Pilot Project
-File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1.That Council receive report OPS 01-22 from the Director, Operations regarding the
mechanical harvesting of Eurasian watermilfoil weeds in Frenchman’s Bay 2021 pilot
project for information; and,
2.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions
to give effect hereto.
Executive Summary: On March 22, 2021, Council approved the 2021 Current Budget which
included funding for a pilot project to remove invasive weeds from Frenchman’s Bay to enhance
opportunities for recreational water activities. A pilot project for mechanical harvesting of Eurasian
watermilfoil weeds in Frenchman’s Bay in the amount of $50,000.00 was included and approved
in the Public Works’ Property Maintenance budget (2132.2482.0000).
Pickering Harbour Company Ltd. (PHC) is the owner of the lands under the south end of
Frenchman’s Bay (the waterbed) and has the rights through a Federal Charter to operate a
marina. PHC has obligations to maintain the water column, and they cut weeds annually to allow
for safe navigation of watercraft between the marina and the breakwaters leading to Lake Ontario.
On June 8, 2021, the City submitted a Request to Review to Fisheries and Oceans Canada and
received a Letter of Advice (LOA) on July 12, 2021 indicating that weed harvesting on
Frenchman’s Bay could take place between July 16 and September 14 and that removal should
only be undertaken in the top half of the water column. Shortly thereafter, negotiations with
Ontario Power Generation (OPG) commenced to sub-contract their weed harvester that OPG
uses to control weeds around the Nuclear facilities water intakes. OPG advised that they could
start weed harvesting work on August 9, 2021.
On July 16, 2021, PHC advised the City in writing that by the Charter of 1853, prior to
Confederation, Frenchman’s Bay’s waterbed and lands are owned and operated exclusively by
PHC and are under their care and control. PHC advised the City that they would not allow OPG to
undertake the work on their property and that they had an existing contract with a vendor to
provide weed control in the bay. City staff entered into negotiations with PHC directly for them to
deliver the weed removal pilot project in areas that PHC would not normally cut as they are
OPS 01-22 January 10, 2021
Subject: Mechanical Harvesting of Eurasian Watermilfoil Weeds Page 2
in Frenchman’s Bay
outside of the area used for marina purposes. Negotiations were completed by August 19, 2021
and PHC agreed to a $50,000.00 lump sum fee in return for 1.92 hectares (4.75 acres) of the bay
being cut and the weeds to be emaciated as part of the harvesting process. It should be noted
that the City’s action and corresponding financial investment in this project also benefits PHC and
its customers by enhancing the functionality and mobility of watercraft that use Frenchman’s Bay.
Work commenced on August 31, 2021, later than previously planned and agreed upon, with PHC
using a different vendor and a harvesting method that did not include emaciation of the cut weeds.
The weed harvesting work was delayed by equipment breakdowns and was eventually completed
on September 24, 2021. The harvester contractors had a total of 27.50 hours of on water
operations to cut weeds in the designated areas. It should be noted that the start and end dates of
the weed harvester were outside the dates noted by Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Discussion: On an annual basis, PHC completes weed harvesting, without weed
removal, around the docks of Frenchman’s Bay Marina, Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club, and a
channel linking the two to the harbour entrance breakwaters. The harvesting is normally
undertaken twice during the growing season but may be completed up to five times per season if
lower water levels accelerate weed growth.
In 2021, PHC was contracted by the City to undertake the pilot project for the mechanical
harvesting of Eurasian watermilfoil weeds in areas of Frenchman’s Bay outside of the area that
PHC harvests, after PHC advised of their sole source agreement with their harvesting
subcontractor. PHC has advised that they have special powers relating to ownership and
management of Frenchman’s Bay, as provided in a Federal Act of 1853, making it a Special Act
Corporation. PHC provided a schedule indicating harvesting work on behalf of the City would be
undertaken over an 18 day period of on water cutting. The extent of the harvesting work
completed did not necessarily address the needs of the significant number of residents and
visitors to the City that launch small personal pleasure crafts such as canoes, dragon boats,
kayaks, paddleboards, and paddle boats.
On water Quality Assurance (Q/A) inspections were undertaken by City staff on October 27, 2021.
During the Q/A inspections, PHC advised that many of the visible weeds were due to re-growth
during the time between cutting and inspection. Staff also recorded GPS referencing during the on
water inspection allowing staff to clearly identify the extent of cutting that was achieved during the
pilot project. Having determined the extend of cutting achieved, it must be noted that it was difficult
to determine the depth of cut achieved in relation to the proposed cut depth of between one to two
metres. There was also inconsistent coverage between adjacent passes of the weed harvester as
shown in Attachment 2 (figure 4 on page 12).
City staff were advised that a significant area of the planned northern limit cut on the west side of
Frenchman’s Bay, adjacent to Bruce Handscomb Memorial Park, was not cut due to insufficient
depth to operate the equipment (18 inches minimum depth). PHC provided a GPS document to
the City indicating that a total of 6.42 acres was cut. It is important to note that this pilot project
was intended for the betterment of canoeists, kayakers, and other paddle boaters who would
place much higher value on in-shore cutting for improved ingress/egress and recreational small
craft usage. Water depth at time of harvesting will affect the operator’s ability to cut close to the
shoreline.
OPS 01-22 January 10, 2021
Subject: Mechanical Harvesting of Eurasian Watermilfoil Weeds Page 3
in Frenchman’s Bay
The results of the pilot project were inconclusive as the weed cutting started too late in the
season, allowing no assessment on weed regrowth levels. A drone video showing the areas of
Frenchman’s Bay before and after cutting was also inconclusive due to the late completion of the
pilot; and, much of the absence of weed was due to seasonal weed die back.
Staff are recommending a repeat of the pilot project and to start as early as allowed by Fisheries
and Oceans Canada. This will allow City staff to determine if a second cut is required to maintain
weed control during the season. Based on feedback from bay users, staff will explore the
opportunity to cut weeds closer to the shore line and locations that would provide a path of travel
from a launch point to the weed free areas of the bay. Staff are therefore recommending the
inclusion of $50,000.00 in the 2022 Current budget to repeat the pilot project in accordance with
the conditions stated above.
Attachments:
1. PHC Quote dated August 31, 2021
2. PHC 2021 Weed Cutting Pilot Project Report
Prepared By:
Original Signed By:
Brian Duffield
Director, Operations
Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By:
Richard Holborn, P. Eng.
Director, Engineering Services
Original Signed By:
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasure
BD:nm
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Executive Offices
591 LIVERPOOL ROAD
PICKERING, ONTARIO L 1 W 1R1Associate Company
Telephone (905) 839-5036 FRENCHMAN'S BAY HARBOUR
Fax(905)839-4380& MARINE SERVICE CO. LIMITED
Attachment #1 to Report OPS 01-22
info@frenchmansbaymarina.com
QUOTE FOR WEED CUTTING PILOT PROJECT IN
FRENCHMAN'S BAY
REVISION #2 AUGUST 31, 2021
To: The City of Pickering
One The Esplanade S.
Pickering, ON
LIV 6K7
PILOT PROJECT GOALS
To create navigable corridors or channels in Frenchman's Bay for The City of Pickering
residents , and the general public, to better use the Bay for recreational boating during the 2021
season. This will involve cutting through aquatic weed beds that are an obstruction to navigation.
PHC also wishes to establish a collaborative working relationship between ourselves and City of
Pickering, in a manner that best serves our respective interests , inclusive of public enjoyment of
the Bay.
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES TO BE PERFORMED
Pickering Harbour Company Ltd. (PHC) will be sub-contracting Richardson Workboats Inc. to
perform weed cutting in Frenchman ' s Bay , as a pilot project for The City of Pickering in 2021.
This work will be carried out under the authority of PH C ' s special powers, relating to ownership
and management of Frenchman 's Bay , as provided in a Federal Act of 1853, making it a Special
Act Corporation . The city solicitor obtained a copy of this Special Act documentation in the
early ?O 's.
Please be advised that this work will be done under the advisement of the Environmental
Consultant firm of Tarandus Associates Limited, paying strict attention to the various provincial
and federal agencies requirements and advisements regarding the protection of fish and fish
habitat. Tarandus Associates Limited has also advised that the emulsification used by our Vendor
of Record , Richardson Workboats Inc. will not lead to any significant increase in the propagation
of the nuisance aquatic plants .
The work will be can-ied out using an IMS WeedMaster Cutterhead and will be conducted
outside of the Ontario Restricted Activity timing window for the protection of fish and fish
habitat , and will be concluded no later than September 30 , 2021. The purpose of this pilot project
is to remove the top 1.0 to 1.5 m of the vegetation that is impacting the navigational chmmels m1d
recreational areas of Frenchman 's Bay. Subject to water depth, the presence of obstacles located
on the waterbed , and /or time/budget/weather constraints, the depth of the cut will be increased to
2 metre s or more . The bottom of the bay will not be disturbed and submergent vegetation will
remain intact. The WeedMaster will be using a cutting tool that will mulch the cuttings , whereby
the y will be dropping to the bottom of the bay. Therefore no off-site disposal of weeds will be
require d.
PH C ass umes all risks related to the cost variances that could negatively impact this budget ,
including for example: inclement weather, equipment failure or any other unforeseen service
interruptions. The project will also include a pre -launch, on-site meeting between PHC staff and
City staff to review the project plan and discuss any specific details which could require
confirmation or clarification. The location of the actual weed cutting will be recorded by
Richardson Workboats Inc., using the company's Trimble GeoExplorer technology m1d will be
submitted to City personnel upon completion of the cutting . City staff will be welcome to
monitor and inspect the harvesting process and inspect the final result using a workboat provided
by PHC , subject to coordinating this process with PHC staff in advance.
The proposed areas to be cut are as follows:
• For Bruce Hanscombe Memorial Park (West)-Commencing as close to the shore as
possible , from the tree line that divides Essa Crescent and Elvira Collli in the north and
extending south to Mink Street, where it meets Breezy Drive (i.e. joining up with the existing
cut zone in the navigable channel that provides ingress and egress to Frenchn1an 's Bay Yacht
Club to and from the harbour entrance). We are proposing to cut an area of 560m in length x
20m wide , which is approximately 11 ,200 sq m
• For Progress Frenchmans Bay East Park (East) -Commencing from Commerce Street in the
north , and extending south to join up with the navigational channel area that has already been
harvested leading from the Frenclunan's Bay Marina to the harbour entrance. We are
proposing to cut an area of 400m in length x 20m wide , which is approximately 8,000 sq m.
Within the hash-marked area triangle, we will cut .3 acres to a depth of 1 to 1.5 metres. If we
are able to increase the above-mentioned cut m·eas , we will. This decision is at the sole
discretion of PHC and is dependant upon the smne constraints that apply to the depth of the
cuts. This is the area that the City staff have prioritized as the most impo1iant harvest zone
beyond the solid harvest corridor marked in yellow on the project map attached.
• A map is attached to this quote that shows the navigational channels already cut by
Richardson Workboats Inc., as well as the areas cut around PHC 's mm·ina slips.
• A site meeting will take place at PHC Marina and related harbour locations on Tuesday
A ugust 17 , 2021 commencing at 7:30 am. PHC will develop a work-back schedule over the
next 10 days .
• Upon completion, PHC will provide The City of Pickering with a completed report, outlining
all of the areas cut and the depths at which they were cut. This report will also recommend
best practices gleaned from this pilot project for future weed harvesting. PHC requests that
there be a post-project in -person review with the san1e City personnel that have participated
in this negotiation.
This is a fixed cost quotation* in the amount of $44,050.00 + $5,726.50 (HST)= $49,776.50.
* PHC is committed to completing the entire project by September 30, 2021. If there are any
delays beyond our control; i.e. weather, debris in the bay, etc. that delay completion beyond
September 30 , the final cost will be pro-rated to the actual area of weeds that have been cut.
In this instance PHC will be afforded the latitude to discuss completion of the full 5 acres
within the first 15 days of October 2021 , to achieve the full cut quota noted for full
compensation.
AMENDMENT RE AQUATIC WEED HARVESTING METHODOLOGY
PHC will be using the weed cutting equipment as specified in the original proposal to cut the
designated cut zones. As Stephen Richardson is awaiting paiis for an equipment repair that
occurred just prior to commencing this work, PHC has elected to engage a second weed
harvesting contractor to commence work immediately ; rather than be delayed until Stephen
Richardson receives the replacement parts. Due to the urgency on the city's part to begin this
work as quickly as possible, PHC felt this was the prudent alternative rather than delaying the
harvesting process until after Labour Day. This solution will clear some of the weeds in the
designated cut area prior to the Labour Day weekend to the benefit of local residents with small
watercraft.
This alternative weed harvester (Aqua Master) will haul the cut weeds to a designated area in the
bay which will be subsequently emulsified by Stephen Richai·dson's equipment (Weed
Harvester) using the cutting methodology originally specified in the proposal. Stephen
Richardson will then complete the full five acre cut using the technology specified in the original
proposal.
41¢/ffe
Harold Hough
Managing Direct
Pickering Harbour Company Ltd.
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Attachment #2 to Report OPS 01-22
Report Re: Weed Cutting Trial Project in Frenchman’s Bay for 2021
Executive Overview
The Board and Management of the Pickering Harbour Company (PHC) welcomes the
initiative taken by the City of Pickering to fund this pilot weed harvesting project in
Frenchman’s Bay. The proliferation of dense week growth throughout the Bay has had a
catastrophic impact on the use of Frenchman’s Bay, both in terms of its environmental
health and its value as a recreational resource for the residents of Pickering. The dense
weed population prevents safe navigation by watercraft anywhere in the Bay, with the
exception of the navigation channels dredged by PHC.
This weed infestation is the direct result of stormwater and catchment practices
managed by the City of Pickering over several decades, much of which is well
documented through evidenced-based academic research studies and media reports. It
is the hope of PHC Management that this trial harvesting initiative by the City will spawn
a strategic effort to reverse the environmental damage done to the Bay; restoring the
Bay to its vital role as a focal point for recreational, lifestyle and commercial activity. To
this end this report distills out the most salient observations, findings and
recommendations generated through this pilot project to realize this outcome.
Of greatest importance, the extensive presence and rapid regrowth of weeds throughout
the Bay severely restricts and/or eliminates recreational use of the Bay by boaters and
presents serious safety concerns for anyone attempting to use the Bay for recreational
purposes. This weed infestation is harming the Bay ecologically, endangering the lives
of those who venture on to the Bay and preventing any meaningful recreational use
thereof. This pilot project has demonstrated that:
•It is essential to cut at least 160+acres of the Bay to provide a meaningful
improvement in access for recreational usage.
•Eliminating this weed infestation through weed harvesting methods will cost the city
of Pickering over $1.9M+ per year, in perpetuity.
•There are better strategic long-term solutions to eliminating/minimizing the weed
problem that need to be discussed in preparation for the 2022 season.
•The Bay can serve as a highly valued driver of economic development for
Pickering if the weed infestation is addressed with strategic foresight, sound
environmental practices and a vision for the true potential of this natural resource.
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While short term recommendations focus on ways to improve the efficacy of the
harvesting process, this report strongly recommends that there are alterative,
systemic solutions that will either eliminate or minimize the need to harvest weeds,
thereby reducing the cost and restoring the Bay to its full potential. We appreciate the
opportunity to work with City staff on this initiative and genuinely hope that this project
marks the beginning of the Bay’s restoration.
With respect
Barry Pettit, M.Ed. Harold Hough
President Managing Director
Pickering Harbour Company Pickering Harbour Company
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Project Objectives
• To create navigable corridors aligned with the East and West shore of Frenchman’s
Bay that enable local boaters to launch their watercraft from the Progress
Frenchman’s Bay East Park and Bruce Handscomb Memorial Parks and reach the
East/West navigation channel that connects the Bay to Lake Ontario.
• Gather information that will advise City staff relevant to repeating/expanding this
project in subsequent years.
The Need
• The need for this intervention/pilot project centers on the reality that heavy weed
growth is choking the Bay. The Bay is in fact becoming a giant, 195+ acre weed
farm, with the exception of navigation channels, which Pickering Harbour Company
has dredged. Sailboats, flat water craft and power boats all find it impossible to use
the Bay outside of the limited navigation zones. Please see the quotation from
Messrs. Dixon and Murray, expressing this need.
• In addition to the navigational impediment which this weed forest creates for any
kind of water craft, this situation endangers the public by:
o Limiting the ability of rescue watercraft from reaching boaters
o Entangling swimmers/boaters who inadvertently find themselves overboard
o Damaging the engines and propellers of any powered craft
Quotation from Glen Dixon, Commodore of the Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club
“I've been involved in various attempts to control the weeds on Frenchman's Bay
for over 10 years now, from when they first started to be an issue. In that time,
we've gone from a fairly clear bay where it was actually possible for sailboats to
race inside the harbour, to a body of water that in peak season is 90% choked
off. I want to make sure Council understands that whatever tactic or solution is
chosen to tackle the problem, from this day forward it becomes an ongoing
solution. There doesn't seem to be an easy way (short of mass chemical
exposure) to eradicate the problem, so we will always be treating the situation.
These weeds grow back some 6" per day! Our experience is that a 4' cut
provides temporary relief, but in approx. 6 weeks the area treated is again
choked off. I don't know if that's due to the limited cutting and spraying we have
been able to do, or if it's simply because the nature of the weed is to propagate
and spread, but 6 weeks is the maximum we've seen until the problem is again
unbearable.
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Going forward, efforts will have to be made to conduct 2 minimum, and 3
hopefully, cuts from July through September to keep the bay useable, and this
will have to be maintained year over year. There is no short term fix without
massive dredging or chemical treatment to get to the roots. However, without
something being done soon, someone is going to be hurt. This summer, 3 of our
members had to rush to the aid of canoeists at the north end who had fallen out
of their boat and were caught in weeds. Multiple times boats had their engines
plugged with weeds and they simply drifted deeper until hopelessly stuck.
Dragon boats and kayaks train and practice in the Yacht Clubs only channel out
to the bay, which we pay to maintain, and refuse to move out of the way
regardless of the danger they are putting powered boats into by having to move
outside the channel to avoid a collision. We were told early in 2021 that monies
were in place to begin a clearing project. Photo ops were certainly taken with
Council members about the weed cutting project that was about to begin, yet all I
saw was some pilot cutting.”
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Letter from Scott Murray, President Alkame Dragon Boat Services
Dear Pickering Harbour Company,
Frenchman’s Bay is in peril. Our paddling community is devastated at the current state
of Frenchman’s Bay. We must do something to save this jewel of the paddling
community and we must act soon. We are aware the solution is going to take time and
resources and we are here to advocate and support those solutions in every way we
can.
For the past 20 years, our organizations have specialized in providing world-class
dragon boat services to individuals and groups in Durham Region, The Greater
Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada and beyond.
Evidence of our success toward this goal includes providing a safe and healthy
recreational on-water experience to hundreds of participants every year, becoming
one of the most successful dragon boat clubs in the world and by receiving The Key to
The City. The health of Frenchman’s Bay has been central to the enjoyment and
success so many have had during this time.
Eurasian Watermilfoil first started to impact our paddling experiences in 2012, leading
to the 2013 Pickering Dragon Boat Festival being relocated to Marilyn Bell Park in
Toronto due to concerns over race course quality, and a loss of tourism opportunity for
the local Pickering community. We have been fortunate to host this event in Pickering
ever since only because it is early enough in the racing calendar (first weekend in
June). Any later date and this event would be impossible due to weed growth.
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The most recent Pickering Dragon Boat Festival was hosted in June 2019 due to
Covid-19 and since that time Frenchman’s Bay has deteriorated rapidly. It has
reached the point in which no recreational watercrafts can safely enjoy paddling in the
Bay. The northern 70% of Frenchman’s Bay is covered with weeds and unnavigable.
The channel created and designed for sailboat passage from Frenchman’s Bay Yacht
Club to Lake Ontario is the only portion of Frenchman’s Bay in which dragon boats
(or any sport or pleasure craft) can navigate. This has created additional danger as
many vessels must pass each other in a very narrow course.
To describe in words the challenges of paddling on Frenchman’s Bay is futile. One
must see photos to properly grasp the scope of the issue. I can’t properly describe the
impact this has had on our paddling community. From introducing new members to
sustaining fun and enjoyment of existing members to our reputation in the larger
community, Pickering is now known more for weeds than its accomplishments and
positive community contributions.
The Pickering Dragon Boat Club and Alkame Dragon Boat Services passionately
support any and every investment of resources towards the saving of Frenchman’s
Bay.
Sincerely,
Scott Murray
President, Head Coach,
Alkame Dragon Boat Services Pickering Dragon Boat Club
416-561-9089 416-561-9089
scott.murray@alkame.ca scott.murray@pdbc.ca
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Methodology
• PHC was contracted by The City of Pickering to cut the top portion of the weeds
within the designated 5-acre area as shown in Figure 3, inclusive of two cut zones
located in close proximity to Progress Frenchman’s Bay East Park and Bruce
Handscomb Memorial Park.
• The depth of this cut was to range from a minimum of 1 to 1.5 metres, subject to
depth and obstacle restrictions.
• The method of harvesting
recommended by PHC was the IMS
WeedMaster Cutterhead, which
emulsifies the weed cuttings (pictured
to the right) vs. the AquaMaster weed
cutting equipment. The AquaMaster
clips the weeds using serrated blades,
the weeds then drop onto a conveyor
and are stored for disposal, followed
by the necessary deposit of the weed
cuttings at a location that will require
the weeds to be trucked to an
appropriate disposal location.
Figure 1: WeedMaster Harvester being launched
into Frenchman’s Bay by PHC
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Figure 2: Stephen Richardson at the helm of the WeedMaster, accompanied by
Rob Burlie, P. Eng., Manager, Public Works
• The cut area was modified, as requested by City staff, and is reflected in the actual
GPS pictorial view of this final cut zone. See Figure 2 for a map illustrating these
zones. Shallow water depth (5 feet and less) at the north end of the west cut zone
bordering Bruce Handscomb Memorial Park limited the ability to harvest weeds as
far north in this zone as first requested. This limitation was more than offset by
widening the cut zone on both the West and Wast sides of the Bay.
• It was agreed that while the intended cut areas were marked on the project map,
flexibility would be allowed to modify this cut area dependent on depth and unknown
obstructions on the lakebed. The potential equipment damage and delays caused by
hitting underwater objects made it necessary to limit cut depth in shallow water
(i.e., where water depth was less than six feet).
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• Supply chain delays in the provision of repair parts for the IMS WeedMaster made it
necessary to commence this harvesting operation by using the AquaMaster
equipment in order to start this work in advance of the Labour Day Weekend, out of
respect for The City of Pickering Management’s desire to complete this process as
quickly as possible during the boating season. The work done on this project using
the AquaMaster was subsequently redone using the more superior WeedMaster
equipment, inclusive of emulsifying the weed material deposited near shore by the
AquaMaster.
• The cut zones were initially marked out with buoys in advance of weed cutting. The
actual cut areas are displayed on the attached GPS printout.
• The additional cost of using the AquaMaster was absorbed by PHC within the
approved budget, as was the increase in cut area from 5 to 6 acres.
Project Process
• Through a series of project meetings from August 30 to October 4, 2021, as noted
on the project schedule provided to The City. (The details of this project were
planned and implemented in close co-operation City staff, Rob Burlie, Manager of
Public Works and Rob Gagen, Supervisor, Parks & Property, in particular).
• Bi-weekly meetings, including PHC, contractor and City staff were convened to keep
the project on track, within scope and on target for achieving the stated objectives.
• At critical points in the project process PHC provided watercraft and staff necessary
for City personnel and City Councilors to inspect the site and cutting process.
Obstacles to anticipate and mitigate in future weed harvesting projects
• Members of the public repeatedly removed markers placed in the Bay in advance of
the actual weed harvesting operation to demarcate the cut zones (for City approval
and staff approval of cut zones). In future years, signage placed at water access
points in both parks will minimize this vandalism.
• It became clear during this project that the depth of the Bay is problematic in some
areas because:
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o The time of year affects water depth, with depth being less in September than it
will be in June because the water depth naturally drops as the season
progresses. The shallower areas (i.e., less than 6 feet) are both more difficult to
cut and the weeds grow back more quickly in response to increased sunlight.
o Faster regrowth appeared to happen in close proximity to the City’s storm
management runoff outlets into the Bay adjacent to both park locations.
o Sedimentation from City runoff and catchment area practices have exacerbated
the natural sedimentation that happens over time, creating shallower areas in
some areas of the cut zone.
o The location of various other hazards such as cement blocks on the bottom of
the waterbed.
Quality Control, Quality Assurance and Project Efficacy
• Richardson Workboats Inc. increased the 5-acre zone to 6 acres, without any
increase to the approved budget, noted on the attached cut zone schematic. Please
see Figure 4 to reference the location and size of the harvest cut zones (actual vs.
proposed).
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Figure 3: Proposed cut zone (from PHC’s quote)
Legend:
City requested cut zones:
Navigational channel cut
zones cleared previously by PHC:
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Figure 4: Actual vs. Requested (by The City) harvest cut zones
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Figure 5: GPS Trimble printout of actual West Shore cut zone
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Figure 6: GPS Trimble printout of Actual East Shore Cut Zone
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Figure 7: GPS printout of Emulsification Location for Weeds Deposited
by the AquaMaster Harvester
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• PHC managed to mitigate equipment delays caused by supply chain issues for parts
repairs required to maintain the harvesting equipment, delivering the project in scope
and on time.
• The communication with City staff was helpful in meeting with the PHC project team
and managing the process in accordance with the city’s expectations.
Quality Control during the project was ensured by:
• A pre-cut site inspection on the water site was completed with City staff to clarify cut
zones.
• Use of Richardson Workboats handheld GPS technology to mark out the cut zones
in advance of the actual cut.
• Use of the onboard GPS Trimble system to monitor and guide in real time the
actual harvesting process (on the WeedMaster).
• Provision of an accurate, GPS enabled aerial map of the cut zone at the conclusion
of the harvesting process to measure and display the area of the Bay in which
weeds were harvested.
• Real time visual inspection of the cut zones 30 days after the completion of the
harvesting process to verify that the weeds had been cut and to also evaluate the
rate of weed regeneration in the interim.
Quality Assurance
• Detailed GPS-enabled monitoring in real time of the cut zone onboard the
WeedMaster Harvester allowed the operator, Stephen Richardson, to accurately cut
the desired harvest zones designed by City staff.
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Figure 8: Captain
Steve Richardson
at the helm of the
WeedMaster,
monitoring the
GPS tracking
system in real
time.
Figure 9: The GPS tracking
units installed on the
WeedMaster harvest monitors
17 satellites to transect the
coordinates necessary to guide
the harvesting process
accurately.
• This same GPS monitoring device onboard the WeedMaster for live tracking of
the cut zone was also used to review the cut zones with city staff during the
post-cutting site inspection and to output the attached cut zone visual reports of
work completed.
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Figure 10: Rob Burlie
inspects the GPS tracking
system in progress
• Daily reporting (submitted by 9:30 a.m. daily) of harvesting activities, enabled the
City staff to conduct spot checks on the harvesting process in progress at any point
during the harvesting process.
• On-site inspection by City of Pickering Councilor Pickles and Councilor Cummings
during the actual harvesting operation, followed in turn by a separate on-site
observation of the harvesting process by city staff from the PHC workboat.
• Visual inspection one week after the cutting process by PHC staff.
• Site inspection by City staff on October 27/28 from the PHC workboat, followed in
turn by a comprehensive site inspection of the cut zones by City staff aboard the
Richardson Workboats WeedMaster, inclusive of detailed review of the Trimble GPS
screen tracking, in real time of the cut zones delineated on this GPS system.
• Please note that the four-week gap between the completion of the harvesting
process and the visual inspection may have some effect on the visibility of weeds
below the surface. This four week gap was due to the unavailability of PHC
watercraft due to their busy haul out schedule.
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• Final site inspection by City staff including on-the-water visual inspection of the
entire cut zones completed onboard by Messrs. Burlie, Gagen, Pettit and
Vijaysegaram. Stephen Richardson demonstrated to City personnel through a live
demonstration on the weed harvester (Nov. 1, 2021 during on-site inspection) how
he could physically monitor the depth of the cutting head to ensure the cut depth at
1.5 meters (subject shallow waters and/or obstructions on the Bay bottom requiring
a lesser depth).
Figure 11: Rob Burlie of The City of Pickering inspects harvest cut zones.
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Figure 12: Rob Gagen, Supervisor, Parks & Property inspecting the weed cut results
from the bow of the WeedMaster as it replicates the edge of the weed cut zone near
Bruce Handscomb Park. The uncut weed zone is clearly visible to this right.
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Project Outcomes
• The project objectives were achieved.
o Navigable cut zones were cleared to provide access by boaters from the park
areas to the main navigation channel that runs East/West across the Bay.
o Important information was gathered specific to how this harvesting process can
be completed at a larger scale in the future.
o The City staff and PHC staff have forged a healthy working relationship that will
both inform and contribute to short and long-term solutions that address weed
infestation in the Bay.
o The limited capacity of weed harvesting to address the larger systemic
constraints that limit the use and value of Frenchman’s Bay to the public have
been highlighted in a manner that will advance strategic long term planning on
systemic solutions for restoration of the Bay.
• The project was completed on budget and on time:
o $44,050.00 + $5,762.50 (HST), for a total of $49,776.50
• The actual harvesting operation was completed by September 24, 2021, followed in
turn by a site inspection conducted by City staff on November 1, 2021.
• There was clear evidence that the weeds had been cut in the harvest cut zone,
leading to:
o An absence of weeds in deeper sections of the cut zones.
o The regrowth of weeds in some portions of the cut zone in close proximity to
shore, where water levels were considerably shallower (6 feet or less).
o The rapid regrowth of weeds, particularly in shallower areas (example around the
dock area located at Progress Frenchman’s Bay East Park) was somewhat
surprising.
o Further investigating indicated that the milfoil weed can grow as much as 2” per
day in warm waters.
• The use of both the AquaMaster and WeedMaster technologies demonstrated
convincingly that the WeedMaster was far superior to the AquaMaster harvesting
technology for the following reasons:
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o The AquaMaster left long strands of weeds at the water surface, creating
ongoing frustration for the Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club. (The subsequent pass
over this same area by the WeedMaster eliminated this problem).
o In total the WeedMaster completed the actual cutting operation in five days. This
duration does not include the necessary time required to prepare for and manage
this process.
o The horsepower difference (WeedMaster at 400 hp) and AquaMaster at 25hp
directly benefits the time to completion and efficacy of the equipment to complete
this job.
o The use of the WeedMaster eliminated the need to truck away cuttings waste.
o The accuracy of the cut was assured by the onboard computer GPS Trimble
system.
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Project Recommendations
1. The five-acre cut zone provided an excellent test case for conducting this
harvesting process but does not address the larger systemic issue experienced
by the public. Safe, meaningful recreational use of Frenchman’s Bay will need
to eliminate weeds on at least 85% of the Bay to allow for meaningful, safe
usage by the diverse set of watercrafts suitable to the Bay (i.e., at least 160
acres). Anything less than this will continue to severely restrict (virtually
eliminate) public access to and enjoyment of the Bay, create severe
environmental problems relative to the ecological health of the Bay, endanger
anyone who ventures on the Bay and waste one of Pickering’s most valuable
economic development drivers.
Sailors, fishermen and flat-water vessel enthusiasts alike must be able to
navigate from one side of the Bay to the other unimpeded; often in a triangular
pattern that traverses the water surface depending on wind and wave action to
enjoy their respective sports. Boaters of all kinds need the wide spans of the
Bay to navigate on this water surface. Anything less than cutting 160+ acres is
prohibitive.
2. It will best serve the residents of Pickering for Municipal leadership to work
closely with PHC to determine a long-term strategy that restores
Frenchman’s Bay to an ecological state of health that benefits all members of
the Pickering community.
3. For future project specifications, PHC needs to factor in the cost of manpower
and equipment necessary to provide City staff with direct, on-the-water
observation at any point in the harvesting process.
4. Signage placed in City parks (where boaters launch their small flat-water craft)
will help minimize vandalism to markers used during the cutting process.
5. The WeedMaster GPS system should be used to delineate the harvesting zones,
inclusive of onboard monitoring by City staff thereof, in advance of the actual
harvesting process vs. using either physical markers or any hand-held GPS
device to delineate the harvesting zone. This will allow for the most accurate
delineation of the harvesting zone using both visual cues gained by City staff
being aboard the harvesting machine.
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6. First cut in June to enable Bay usage for summer months. Second cut in late
August to enable usage through to end of the boating season. This cutting
process will be required twice per season to allow for safe usage of the Bay and
will need to expand the cut zone to 100 acres for this program to effectively
address the needs experienced by the public as outlined on page 1 of this report.
7. The scope of problem is far more severe than City staff and City Councilors may
realize. The Bay has become one large weed farm to the detriment of the
environment and the public. This problem is attributed directly to the City’s
stormwater and catchment basin practices. Any long-term strategy to resolve
this issue will need to encompass systemic solutions that go well beyond the
immediate need to harvest weeds across at least 160 acres of the Bay twice per
season to allow for safe use of water craft.
8. While weed cutting is essential on a yearly basis to provide boating access to
local residents, a strategic discussion with PHC about longer term remedies will
be helpful. PHC recommends that a special project committee (made up of PHC
and City staff) be established to consider alternative solutions to the expense of
clearing the Bay twice per year that will benefit the public and the environment
and be cost effective in the long term. Dredging of the Bay will eliminate weed
growth for at least ten years (if not longer) and enable full utilization of the Bay by
the public. This option will cost less than the harvesting process.
Respectfully,
Barry Pettit, M.Ed.,
President,
Pickering Harbour Company
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APPENDIX A: Research Reference MATERIALS
Environmental Research Related to City Water Management Practices and
Related Impact on health of Frenchman’s Bay
1. Geophysical and sedimentological assessment of urban impacts in a Lake Ontario
watershed and Lagoon: Frenchman's Bay, Pickering, Ontario Geoscience
Canada 30(3):115-128
Geoscientists from the University of Toronto and McMaster University are
working with the City of Pickering, Ontario on remediation of a Lake Ontario
lagoon and urbanized watershed (Frenchman's Bay) experiencing large
stormwater flows and enhanced sediment erosion and transportation.
Throughout the watershed, the hydrological cycle has been dramatically changed
as a result of 'hardening' by roads and buildings - greatly restricting infiltration
and promoting surface runoff. The urban-impacted watershed empties into the
shallow, semi-enclosed coastal lagoon of Frenchman's Bay - serving as a trap for
fine-grained contaminated sediment.
2. Road salt and cars produce extreme water contamination in Frenchman's Bay,
Ontario, Canada
Date: March 3, 2010
Source: University of Toronto
"Our findings are pretty dramatic, and the effects are felt year round," says Eyles.
"This is a really bad news story about the relentless chemical assault on a
watershed, with bleak implications that go far beyond the lagoon itself. We now
know that 3,600 tonnes of road salt end up in that small lagoon every winter from
direct runoff in creeks and effectively poison it for the rest of the year. The future
of Frenchman's Bay is not bright, but this also affects the Great Lakes."
The researchers conducted an extensive study of streams and groundwater
entering Frenchman's Bay over a five-year period using sophisticated field testing
and groundwater modeling methods. Some 7,600 tonnes of de-icing salt are
applied to nearby roads each year, with more than half of it accumulating in
groundwater and returning as brackish (salinated) baseflow into creeks year
round, they note. "The remainder is rapidly delivered by surface runoff to
Frenchman's Bay, where chloride contents are more than double the average
values in waters across the Great Lakes," the report states. "Highway 401 is the
largest single source of salt contamination to the lagoon, which receives 26 per
cent of all road salt applied to the watershed but covers just 1.3 per cent of its
area."
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The authors also found that levels of other urban contaminants such as metals,
E. coli and coliform were all elevated well above Canadian water quality
standards. A decline in ecosystem diversity in Frenchman's Bay is also noted in
the report, reflected in the absence of fish in creeks, significant changes in the
age structure of fish populations and a much lowered diversity of aquatic species.
The report highlights the loss of wetlands by urban runoff.
3. How Does Road Salt Affect the Environment?
February 4th, 2019
Topics: Pond Management Best Practices Seasonal Pond Tips
Written by Industry Expert Emily Mayer, Aquatic Biologist
https://www.solitudelakemanagement.com/blog/how-does-road-salt-affect-the-
environment/
When salt enters our waterbodies, it can also have a negative effect on the
natural mixing of the water column. In some cases, salinization can alter
parameters such as temperature, sediment concentrations and dissolved oxygen
levels, and prevent vertical mixing in the water column—a phenomenon
called stratification. If persistent stratification occurs, this can increase the
availability of undesirable nutrients to fuel nuisance aquatic weeds and algae.
This, in turn, can deplete oxygen, causing insufficient habitat conditions for native
aquatic life. Put simply, the occurrences of invasive species infestations, fish kills,
and poor water quality may be greater when road salt enters freshwater
resources.
4. Tarandus Associates Limited, Environmental Consultants Report: August 10, 2021
“The high densities of aquatic macrophytes in Frenchman’s bay are most likely
due to high levels of nutrients, particularly phosphorous, which are almost
certainly attributable to stormwater discharged the bay and to its tributaries”.
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APPENDIX B: Media Coverage
'You’d think it’s alive': Pickering’s Frenchman’s Bay overrun by weeds
(durhamregion.com)
Pickering group fights Frenchman’s Bay water weed (durhamregion.com)
Weeds in Frenchman's Bay 2 - YouTube
Pickering waging war on invasive 'Zombie Plant' in Frenchman's Bay (insauga.com)
Pickering to tackle invasive weeds taking over Frenchman's Bay | The Star
Invasive milfoil weed in Pickering on its way out | NiagaraFallsReview.ca
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APPENDIX C: PROJECT SCHEDULE
Quote Date
Revised Quote Sent 8-16-2021
LOI Received from City 8-16-2021
Revision #2 Quote Sent 8-31-2021
Meetings
Virtual Teams Meeting - 1st initial Meeting to discuss weed
harvesting 6-11-2021
Virtual Teams Meeting - 2nd Meeting to discuss weed harvesting 7-23-2021
Virtual Teams Meeting - 3rd Meeting to discuss weed
harvesting 8-11-2021
Virtual Teams Meeting - 4th Meeting to discuss weed
harvesting to finalize quote 8-16-2021
Site Meeting at PHC 8-17-21
Pre-Construction Meeting 8-30-2021
Progress Meeting #1 - Held Virtually 9-13-2021
Progress Meeting #2 - Held at The Lakehouse 9-20-2021
Progress Meeting #3 - Held at The Lakehouse 10-4-2021
QC Check on Bay in Boat with Ian 10-27-2021
Final QC Check on Bay in WeedMaster 11-01-21
Weed Cutting
East Shore Cutting (Harry) 8-31-2021 to 9-1-2021
East & West Shore Cutting & Weed Off Cut Emulsification
(Stephen) 9-20-2021 to 9-24-21