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February 23, 2004
Executive Committee Meeting Agenda Monday, February 23, 2004 7:30 PM Chair: Councillor Pickles (I) ADOPTION OF MINUTES Meeting of February 9, 2004 (11) 1. MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT REPORT PD 11-04 CITY OF PICKERING GROWTH MANAGEMENT STUDY: PHASE 2 PAGE 1-10 PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT REPORT PD 06-04 DISCUSSION PAPERS- "PROPOSED DIRECTIONS" DURHAM REGIONAL OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW: PHASE 2 11-38 OPERATIONS & EMERGENCY SERVICES REPORT OES 11-04 DUFFINS CREEK HEADWATERS MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR TRCA PROPERTIES 39-108 CLERK'S REPORT CL 09-04 APPOINTMENT TO ENFORCE THE PARKING BY-LAW AT 1467 WHITES ROAD, 375, 1450, 1550 AND 1865 KINGSTON ROAD, 1822 WHITES ROAD, 1100 BEGLEY STREET 109-116 PROCLAMATIONS: "EASTER SEALS MONTH" "DAY OF MOURNING" "REALTOR'S MONTH" 117-121 (111) OTHER BUSINESS (IV) ADJOURNMENT RECOMMENDATION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DATE MOVED BY SECONDED BY That Council RECEIVE for information Report PD 11-04 respecting the City's Growth Management Study; and That Council ENDORSE for consultation the following Phase 2 Reports attached under separate cover to Report PD 11-04; and · "Phase 2: Preferred Growth Management Concept and Structure Plan", prepared by Dillon Consulting Limited, Sorensen Gravely Lowes Planning Associates Inc., Joseph Bogdan Associates Inc., and Enid Slack Consulting Inc. dated February, 2004, · "Market Analysis Report" prepared by N. Barry Lyon Consulting Limited dated January, 2004; and · "Water Budget Analysis" prepared by Clarifica Inc. dated November, 2003; and DIRECT staff to circulate the Phase 2 Reports to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, Region of Durham, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, other appropriate agencies and the public for review and comment; and then report back to Council with their recommendations on the Phase 2 Reports; and That Council DEFER the Phase 3 of the Growth Management Study until such time as it has considered the staff report on the Phase 2 Reports. 092 PICKERING REPORT TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Report Number: PD 11-04 Date: February 10, 2004 From: Nell Carroll Director, Planning & Development Subject: City of Pickering Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Recommendations: That Council RECEIVE for information Report PD 11-04 respecting the City's Growth Management Study; That Council ENDORSE for consultation the following Phase 2 Reports attached under separate cover to Report PD 11-04: · "Phase 2: Preferred Growth Management Concept and Structure Plan", prepared by Dillon Consulting Limited, Sorensen Gravely Lowes Planning Associates Inc., Joseph Bogdan Associates Inc., and Enid Slack Consulting Inc. dated February 2004, · "Market Analysis Report" prepared by N. Barry Lyon Consulting Limited dated January 2004; and · "Water Budget Analysis" prepared by Clarifica Inc. dated November 2003; and DIRECT staff to circulate the Phase 2 Reports to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, Region of Durham, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, other appropriate agencies and the .public for review and comment; and then report back to Council with their recommendations on the Phase 2 Reports; and That Council DEFER the Phase 3 of the Growth Management Study until such time as it has considered the staff report on the Phase 2 Reports. Executive Summary: In early 2002, Council initiated a Growth Management Study to guide future urban growth for Pickering. The study area includes the Seaton lands in the east, to the C.P. Rail line in the south, the York-Durham boundary on the west, and Highway 7 to the north. In early 2003, Council approved Dillon Consulting Limited as the lead consultant to undertake the study. Over the past year, the consulting team has studied and analyzed land use options for accommodating future urban growth. The consulting team has completed two of the three phases of the GMS. Staff thanks and congratulates the consulting team on their work to-date and acknowledges tt~eir commitment and dedication in completing the first two phases of this comprehensive study within a year. Staff also appreciates the continuing assistance and in,ut from members of the Steerin~ Committee, Report PD 11-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 2 OO3 Phase 1 established a natural/cultural/environmental system that protects and enhances the natural heritage features and systems. Phase 2 identified and evaluated the urban boundary options. Phase 2 also identified and evaluated urban structure options including general land use designations for the entire study area. Both phases have included extensive opportunities for community consultation including public open house meetings, design charettes, Steering and Technical Review Committee meetings and an on-going information program including notices and web-based information. In addition to the above consultation events, meetings have been held with a number of community organizations. The consulting team has recently completed the Phase 2 Reports and it is now appropriate that these reports be circulated for review and comment. While a report to Council on Phase 2 was not originally contemplated as part of the study process, staff considers it appropriate that Council be informed of the Phase 2 results at this time. It is also appropriate for the consulting team to postpone Phase 3 of the Growth Management Study until such time as Council has considered a staff report respecting the Phase 2 Reports. Financial Implications: No direct financial cost to City as $620,000 was received from major landowners from the area for the Study. Approximately $130,000 remains for the completion of Phase 3. Indirect costs include staff time. BACKGROUND: 1.0 Pickerin.q's Growth Manaqement Study On February 4, 2002, Council initiated a Growth Management Study (GMS) to identify Pickering's future urban growth options. The study area includes the Seaton lands in the east, to the C.P. Rail line in the south, the York-Durham boundary on the west, and Highway 7 to the north. Subsequently, Council established a Working Group that included representatives of Council, City staff, the Region of Durham, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, the Province of Ontario, landowners, and interested community groups. The Working Group assisted in the preparation of the draft Terms of Reference including the 10 Principles for the Growth Management Study. Two key principles of the Study pertain to creating a significant number of jobs in the first phase of development and maintaining the environmental integrity of the study area. On December 10, 2002, Council approved the draft Terms of Reference. On February 17, 2003, Council approved a proposal from a consulting team led by Dillon Consulting Limited (the consulting team) to undertake a GMS for the study area. Over the past year, the consulting team has undertaken a comprehensive pro,ram to study and analyze land use options for accommodating future urban growth. To this end, the consulting team has completed two of the three phases of GMS. Report PD 11-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 3 2.0 Pianninq Process for the Growth IVianaqement Study The Study was divided into the following three phases: Phase 1 An Environmental System of constraints and opportunities was prepared and used as the backdrop in the study process. As well, several other background reports were prepared on the following topics: Agricultural Community Assessment; Parks, Recreation and Greenlands; Population and Employment; Transportation; Sanitary Sewerage, Water Supply and Stormwater; and Environmental Systems Analysis. Completed in June 2003. Phase 2 Five alternative Growth Management Options were prepared. Options subsequently evaluated against an extensive set of criteria based on the 10 Growth Management Principles established by Council. A preferred Growth Management Option was selected from the evaluation results with some modification. A conceptual Structure Plan based on the preferred Growth Management Option was prepared. A number of reports were prepared with respect to the Transportation System, an overall servicing and infrastructure phasing strategy, general financial strategies to implement the Structure Plan and the Phase 2 Consultation Report. Completed in February 2004. Phase 3 The preparation of detailed neighborhood plans for the first phase of development. The preparation of more detailed transportation and servicing plans as well as a financial strategy report. Not yet completed (recommended to be deferred until a staff report on Phase 2 is considered by Council) Report PD 11-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 4 O05 2.I Phase Two A strong focus of the Growth Management Study from the outset has been community consultation. For Phase 2, the consulting team undertook an ambitious consultation program that included the following: Four Steering Committee meetings Two public open houses One Technical Advisory Committee meeting One public design workshop Numerous contacts with key agencies, community contacts and public notices and information exchanges through letters, calls, and email. Public input was also received in response to the following key consultation events: June 24tn, 2003 September 9th, 2003 October 4th, 2003 Public Open House Public Open House Public Design Workshop Growth Management Options 5 growth options prepared Preferred Growth Management Option - preferred urban/rural structure identified Community Design - design elements and principles for communities, neighbourhoods and countryside areas discussed 2.2 In addition, the consulting team met with the Pickering-Ajax Citizens Together (PACT), Liverpool West Community Association, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and Scugog First Nation. Meetings have also been held with the GMS Steering and Technical Advisory Committees through Phases 1 and 2 of the Study. The specific comments on the growth options, the preferred options and design principles received during Phase 2 of the Study are documented in the Phase 2 Reports. Recommended Structure Plan for the Study Area The "Phase 2: Preferred Growth Management Concept and Structure Plan" report describes the Structure Plan, which is being recommended by the consulting team on the basis of the Growth Management Study work done to-date. Report PD 11-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 5 The report recommends a Structure Plan that maintains the environmental integrity of the Study Area by identifying and protecting significant natural features and linking them in key locations with wide natural corridors. The remaining tableland areas are organized generally into two clusters of largely residential, linked neighborhoods located on either side of the West Duffins Creek valley system (the Cherrywood Community to the southwest and the Seaton Community to the northeast). Employment lands are proposed along the community's northern edge, to the north and south of Highway 407, and within the mixed use corridor and nodes along Taunton Road and other main arterial roads. A generalized Structure Plan and the consulting team's Recommended Structure Plan are provided for Council's review (see Attachments #1 and #2). The Structure Plan recommended by the consulting team can accommodate approximately 76,900 persons with 24,800 dwelling units situated within pedestrian scaled neighborhoods, having a range of housing types and densities and offering a range of employment opportunities for 33,000 persons. Since this population cannot be accommodated in Seaton alone, a portion of the Agricultural Assembly lands is also proposed for urban development. This is consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement, which requires local municipalities in the GTA to designate sufficient land for urban uses. This Structure Plan would provide sufficient urban land for a 20-year planning horizon. The Structure Plan recommended by the consulting team is composed of five structural components: · natural heritage system; · countryside; · residential areas; · mixed use areas; · employment areas; and · transportation and transit. Natural Heritage System The natural heritage system identified in Phase 1 is proposed for protection and will form the fundamental structural element in the Plan. A large natural open space corridor is proposed along the southern boundary of the study area enhancing the existing Rouge Duffins Corridor that exists on the south side of the railway. Through the Seaton portion, a large natural open space corridor also extends from the Urfe ESA along the northern boundary of the community to Whitevale Creek and along Whitevale Creek to the Whitevale Golf and Country Club and the Duffins Creek valley. The natural open space corridor not only serves as a natural linkage for wildlife but also serves a critical function of increasing groundwater infiltration. A third large corridor- extends from the Duffins Creek to the Rouge Park along the northern edge of the Cherryw0od Community. Report PD 1 i-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 6 007 Smaller corridors are also shown along the two tributaries of the Ganatsekiagon. Due to the sensitivity of this stream and its aquatic habitat, wide corridor buffers have been proposed to protect it. Countryside The rural agricultural lands in the northwest part of the Study Area are maintained for existing farm operations and future countryside uses. These uses include retail agricultural operations, agri-tourism and non-agricultural countryside uses. This proposed Countryside Area directly abuts the countryside area within the Town of Markham creating a more substantial entity and augments the Rouge Park North corridor. The proposed natural heritage system and corridors buffer the Countryside Area from the proposed new urban areas. Whitevale Creek to the east provides a strong logical eastern boundary to the countryside areas. As a result, the Hamlet of Whitevale and the length of Whitevale Road to the east branch of the Whitevale Creek will remain rural in character protecting the significant heritage resources in this area. Residential Areas The proposed natural heritage system acts as a green edge to the community and creates highly defined residential neighbourhoods. It.is intended that the residential neighbourhoods will contain a range of housing types and densities at a more compact pedestrian scale than previous neighbourhoods in Pickering. Neighbourhood Nodes and larger Local Nodes will define the neighbourhood cores and provide for a mix of uses, which support day-to-day activities. Mixed Use Areas A key element of the Plan is the hierarchy of mixed use nodes and corridors. These include community nodes designed for community wide facilities, and smaller neighbourhood corridors or nodes that accommodate more local amenities. These mixed use areas are intended to evolve and intensify over the long term. In the interim, they will permit a range of office, retail and higher density residential uses. Employment Areas The Structure Plan identifies a Major Institutional Node at the intersection of Whites Road and Taunton Road, which is part of the Mixed Corridor Area along Taunton Road. This Node is intended to accommodate a major institutional use such as a college campus and other supporting uses. Another area for more traditional employment use is located at the northern edge of the lands adjacent to Highway 407. The area is generally intended for high quality prestige employment, light manufacturin9 and office uses in a business park setting. There is potential to create a higher density prestige office/hotel/commercial node in the vicinity of the Sideline 26 interchange particularly if Sideline 26 was extended to become an access into the future airport lands. 008 Report PD 11-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 7 2.3 2.4 Transportation and Transit The Plan also identifies a modified grid network of Type A, B, and C arterial roads. Taunton Road, Brock Road, Highway 7 and Whites Road/Sideline 26 are key arterial roads, which would serve the Cherrywood and Seaton communities. Also, a higher order Transit Spine connecting the new communities with south Pickering is envisioned. This Transit Spine, consisting of the key arterial roads, in the initial phase would accommodate bus service that would connect to the existing GO Station at Liverpool Road, as well as potential future GO stations located along the C.P. Rail Line and Highway 407. Local transit service would be provided through the residential neighbourhoods and out to the higher order Transit Spines. The community's connected street system and neighbourhood structure would be designed with focal points of increased residential density and mixed uses that are transit supportive. Other sections of the Phase 2: Preferred Growth Management Concept and Structure Plan Report The Phase 2 Report also presents information on the following: · · · public input during Phase 2; design principles for the recommended Structure Plan; urban sustainability approaches to implement the recommended Structure Plan; transportation and transit system analysis; sanitary and water infrastructure analysis; financial analysis; phasing plan; hydrogeological evaluation; and public policy context. Other Phase 2 Reports Market Analysis Report This report focuses on the Pickering marketplace, in terms of its economy, demographics, residential and employment land markets and inventory, as well as its market strengths. Strategies in housing, servicing, employment lands, office, retail planning and design area were recommended in the report. Report PD 11-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 8 3.0 4.0 Water Budget Analysis The Water Budget Analysis Report quantified the existing water budget components in the area, and assessed the potential impacts of the proposed growth management options on the water budget components. The Water Balance Analysis found that the groundwater infiltration does not vary significantly between development options. This is largely a result of maintaining the integrity of natural heritage features within each development option and the extensive natural heritage corridors. Bill 27 In December 2003, the Province introduced Bill 27, an Act to establish a greenbelt study area and to amend the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act, 2001 (the Greenbelt Protection Act, 2003). The purpose of the Bill is to undertake a greenbelt study with the intent of establishing a permanent greenbelt in the Golden Horseshoe. The City of Pickering is within the greenbelt study area. As well, the proposed legislation establishes a one-year moratorium that prevents new "urban uses" outside of existing "urban settlement areas" boundaries on rural and agricultural lands within the study area. A Minister's Zoning Order was also imposed on all lands in the Golden Horseshoe, with the exception of the lands in the Niagara Escarpment Area, Oak Ridges Moraine Area, City of Toronto, and certain lands already under a zoning order in the City of Pickering. The proposed legislation does not preclude the City from proceeding with its Growth Management Study. However, it would prevent the City from initiating an application to amend its Official Plan to implement the Growth Management Study results, on lands outside of the Seaton urban area, during the one-year moratorium. Next Steps in the GMS Process It is recommended that Council receive for information Report PD 11-04 respecting the City's Growth Management Study. It is further recommended that the Phase 2 Reports be endorsed for circulation, and that staff be directed to circulate the Reports to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, Region of Durham, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, other appropriate public agencies, and the public for review and comment. Following this, staff would report back to Council with their recommendation on the Phase 2 Reports. It is also recommended that Phase 3 of the Growth Management Study be deferred until such time as Councii has considered the staff report on tt"ie Phase 2 Reports. Report PD 11-04 Subject: Growth Management Study: Phase 2 Date: February 10, 2004 Page 9 Attachments: 1. Map 1 - Generalized Structure Plan 2. Map 2 - Recommended Structure Plan Prepared By: Grant McGregor, MClP, RSP Principal Planner- Policy Approved / Endorsed By: i~iel cCtoa~°pl~&P ~)evel'0 p m e nt Ca'{'herine Rose ' Manager, Policy GM:Id Attachments Copy: Chief Administrative Officer Division Head, Corporate Projects & Policy Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Generaii~e~ Structure P~an ~,~ACHMENT '~ To PDI 1-04 THIRD,: ,) .., .,. City of Pickering II;':,': Growth Management Study Boundary Natural Areas Living Mixed Corridor Employment Utility N RECOMMENDATION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DATE MOVED BY SECONDED BY That the comments in Report PD 06-04 of the Director, Planning & Development be ENDORSED as the City's comments on the "Proposed Directions" of the Durham Regional Official Plan Review: Phase 2 Discussion Papers. That the Region of Durham be REQUESTED to address the City's comments in Report PD 06-04 before initiating amendments to the Regional Official Plan, including revising the "Proposed Directions". to identify a 30-year urban land supply for growth in Durham Region; · to restructure the Durham Plan as a more strategic policy document that recognizes the comprehensive area municipal official plans and the increased planning capabilities at the local level; · to eliminate the duplication of official plan policies on matters addressed in area municipal official plans; and · to differentiate between parts of the Region, including using separate rural policies for near-urban countryside and agricultural areas well-removed from urban settlements. That the Commissioner of Planning be REQUESTED to provide an "early release" of at least three weeks for the Report to Regional Planning Committee on "Revised Directions" for the Durham Regional Official Plan Review. That the City Clerk FORWARD a copy of Report PD 06-04 to the Region of Durham and to local municipalities in Durham Region. PICKERING REPORT TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Report Number: PD 06-04 Date: February 5, 2004 Nell Carroll Director, Planning & Development Subject: Discussion Papers- "Proposed Directions" Durham Regional Official Plan Review: Phase 2 Recommendations: That the comments in Report PD 06-04 of the Director, Planning & Development be ENDORSED as the City's comments on the "Proposed Directions" of the Durham Regional Official Plan Review: Phase 2 Discussion Papers. That the Region of Durham be REQUESTED to address the City's comments in Report PD 06-04 before initiating amendments to the Regional Official Plan, including revising the "Proposed Directions": · to identify a 30-year urban land supply for growth in Durham Region; · to restructure the Durham Plan as a more strategic policy document that recognizes the comprehensive area municipal official plans and the increased planning capabilities at the local level; · to eliminate the duplication of official plan policies on matters addressed in area municipal official plans; and · to differentiate between parts of the Region, including using separate rural policies for near-urban countryside and agricultural areas well-removed from urban settlements. That the Commissioner of Planning be REQUESTED to provide an "early release" of at least three weeks for the Report to Regional Planning Committee on "Revised Directions" for the Durham Regional Official Plan Review. That the City Clerk FORWARD a copy of Report PD 06-04 to the Region of Durham and to local municipalities in Durham Region. Executive Summary: In June 2003, the Region's consultation for Phase 2 of the Durham Regional Official Plan (ROP) Review began with the release of four Discussion Papers. The papers analyze main policy areas identified through Phase 1, including: the environment; the commercial structure; population and employment growth; urban land needs; rural/agriculture areas; and the transportation system. Transportation issues were dealt with through the Region's recent Transportation Master Plan. Report PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 2 013 The Discussion Papers are simple to read and most of the "Proposed Directions" are easy to understand. The Papers present data on many facets of development in the Region. Regional staff met with City staff on several occasions to discuss the "Proposed Directions". The efforts of Regional staff to produce the Discussion Papers is acknowledged, and their willingness to meet is appreciated. City Planning & Development staff support the intent of the "Proposed Directions": ¢' to redefine the Region's role in commercial developments to large centres having floor areas of greater than 60,000 square metres; ¢' to change the time frame of the Regional Official Plan to 2031, forecasting a population of about 215,000 persons and employment of about 88,000 jobs for Pickering; ¢' to require conservation of the natural environment through sustainable land use and development practices; and v' to require conservation of the rural land resource. However, Planning & Development staff does not support the general approach of the "Proposed Directions": x to wait until at least 2007 to address the identified urban land shortage, in Pickering, and other area municipalities; x to increase the detail of policies on the natural environment, thereby duplicating local official plan policies; and x to add more restrictions to the use of all rural lands throughout the Region, despite the near-urban countryside having a different context than north Durham. The cumulative result of the "Proposed Directions", if pursued, would be greater regional control in local matters. Increased regional involvement is unnecessary given the sophistication of local official plans and the increased planning capabilities of area municipalities. Further, the role of local decision-making on planning issues would be weakened. The "Proposed Directions", if followed, would duplicate local official plan policies on matters currently and more appropriately addressed in area municipal plans. Also, the "Proposed Directions" would complicate local planning roles and responsibilities, and delay the current planning process in Durham. The "Proposed Directions" do not provide enough urban land for growth in Durham and Pickering to the year 2031. Also, the urban land analysis did not take account of the natural heritage system of the Seaton lands as identified by the City's Growth Management Study. The effect is a significant shortfall of urban land to accommodate Pickering's 20-year growth targets. This ROP Review needs to establish an urban boundary with a 30-year land supply (not wait until the ROP Review in 2007 as suggested), so area municipalities can complete required secondary plan studies in a timely manner. It is recommended that the "Proposed Directions" be revised to address the City's comments i.n Repo~ PD 06-04~ and that s "Revised Directions" report be prepared, prio,~ to the Region starting amendments to the ROP. 014 Report PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 3 Financial Implications: Not Applicable. BACKGROUND: 1.0 Durham Reqional Official Plan Review: 1.1 Regional Council initiated a two-phased approach to reviewing its Official Plan with the first phase completed in 2001. On April 5, 2000, Regional Council endorsed a two-phased approach to reviewing the Durham Regional Official Plan (ROP). Part of the first phase involved releasing a background report, which included a summary and status of the ROP changes that have occurred in the Region since 1991, and an outline of five policy areas suggested for review in the ROP. The background report was cirCulated to local municipal and other interested stakeholders for review and comment. On December 18, 2000, City Council endorsed Report PD 46-00 (Revised) and requested that the Region of Durham address the issues raised in the City's Report in the review of the ROP. The City supported the review of the policy areas suggested by the Region and identified other issues for review including: · the review and update of housing policies to reflect changes to Provincial legislation and programs; · consideration of removing urban separator designations from the major open space system; · specific designations for a future extension of Clements Road in Ajax, Finch Avenue west of Altona Road and Townline Road north of Finch, Dixie Road, and the freeway to freeway connector between Highways 401 and 407; and · a number of technical issues. Subsequently, Regional Council considered the results of the consultation process undertaken for Phase 1 of the Official Plan Review and endorsed the following policy areas for review: · environment/open space policy; · commercial structure; · population and employment growth; · urban land requirements; · rural/agriculture policy; and · transportation system. Report PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 4 015 1.2 1.3 Durham's Planning Committee authorized Regional staff to consult on the "Proposed Directions" of the Phase 2 ROP Review Discussion Papers. On June 24, 2003, Regional Planning Committee authorized staff to initiate the consultation process for Phase 2 of the Official Plan Review. Regional staff released four Discussion Papers with "Proposed Directions", as follows: Towards a Sustainable and Healthy Environment - Directions on environmental issues propose significant detail and restrictions; main topics focus on water resources, natural heritage features, air quality and the health and sustainability of the Region's communities. Population, Employment and Urban Land - Directions on growth management policies do not address land supply shortage; main topics include updated population, household, dwelling unit and employment forecasts to the year 2031, and urban land supply. Commercial Policy Review - Directions on retailing and commercial issues relax Regional role in commercial matters; main topics discussed include the commercial hierarchy and Central Area definition, floor space allocations, nodes and corridors, and urban form. Protecting our Rural Resources - Directions on rural and agricultural issues propose more detail and severe use restrictions; main topics addressed include the agricultural land base, fragmentation, incompatible uses, rural settlements and non-farm uses. These four Discussion Papers were focused on the analysis of the policy areas identified in Phase 1 of the ROP Review. The transportation system was reviewed as part of the Region's Transportation Master Plan (TMP). On December 17, 2003, Regional Council adopted the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) including specific revisions to address the City's concerns. Pickering Council received Report PD 29-03 regarding consultation process underway for Phase 2 of the Regional Official Plan (ROP) Review. On July 4, 2003, Pickering Council considered Report PD 29-03 regarding the consultation process for Phase 2 of the ROP Review. Report, PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 5 At that time, City staff advised that the "Proposed Directions" included major changes to the natural environment and other policy areas in the ROP, and that the rationale for these "Proposed Directions" required clarification and discussion with Regional staff and other agencies. In addition, the implications of the "Proposed Directions" on the Pickering Official Plan and the Growth Management Study were being reviewed. 1.4 As part of the Region's consultation process, a Public Information Session was held in Pickering to solicit input on the "Proposed Directions" in the Region's Discussion Papers. Public Information Sessions were held across the Region (one for each of the local municipalities) to solicit input on the "Proposed Directions". Four people attended the Pickering session, held on September 17, 2003, in the Central Library auditorium. Also, Regional staff met three times with Pickering staff to discuss issues. 2.0 DISCUSSION: 2.1 Staff supported a ROP Review that would result in a more strategic and visionary document for growth and development in Durham to 2031. The "Proposed Directions" do not build upon the important r°le of local Councils to make decisions on planning issues. City staff suggested during Phase 1 of the ROP Review that the new Plan set long-term strategic directions for Durham, as six of the eight local municipalities now have comprehensive official plans.. By focusing on a streamlined Regional Plan, area municipal official plans would be able to refine the broad long-term directions into detailed policies and designations that reflect local conditions. The consultants retained by the Region to undertake the commercial review also shared this view. They concluded: The level of detail for retail commercial planning in the current Plan continues to reflect the Region's historic role as having the primary responsibility for planning in the Region. Many aspects of this role are now capably performed by the area municipalities, often creating a perceived duplication in the work done at the Region. The Region's continued role in the development approval process which includes reviewing and commenting on applications for developments which are not regional in their scale, role or function is dated and is not in keeping with the objective of downloading responsibilities to the area municipalities where there is no clear regiona[ interesL Report PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 6 017 2.2 Currently, the Region provides only technical comments on local applications circulated by area municipalities. However, the Region has approval power on local official plan amendments. The Region should be providing more substantial comments and analysis on local applications in place of proposing more detail in their Plan and requiring more uses to be established only by amendment to the Regional Official Plan. Only fundamental challenges to strategic Regional Plan matters (such as urban area boundaries) should require a Regional Plan Amendment. A more strategic Regional Plan would build on the well-developed local official plans and the increased planning capabilities of area municipalities. A more strategic Regional Plan could be achieved by removing policies that duplicate local official plans. Alternately, certain Regional Plan policies could apply only where no approved local official plan is in place. The "Proposed Directions" do not reflect differences within the Region, resulting in an overly detailed and restrictive policy approach for the environment and the rural area. The "Proposed Directions" in the Discussion Papers, if pursued, would duplicate local official plan policies, complicate municipal planning roles and responsibilities, and impede the quality and efficiency of the current planning process in Durham. The value of requiring more amendments to the ROP, especially where comprehensive local official plans are in place, is questionable. The "Proposed Directions" would effectively remove much of the responsibility for local planning issues from local Councils to the Region. Specifically, the Discussion Paper on "Protecting our Rural Resources" considers Durham's rural area as homogeneous, rather than recognizing the differences that are reflected in local official plans. The Region is proposing to collapse the two existing Agricultural designations, "Permanent Agricultural Reserve" and "General Agricultural Area", into one designation for agriculture and farm-related land uses. The rural areas south of the Oak Ridges Moraine have different characteristics, contexts, and influences than the more "pure" agriculture areas located north and well east of Pickering. Countryside that is located close to urban areas is more typically mixed and diverse. While not abandoning agriculture, a somewhat more relaxed land use approach should be considered for these near-urban areas. This is consistent with Pickering's Official Plan policy to foster a healthy and vibrant rural economy. This could be achieved by permitting a broader range of complementary uses beyond traditional agriculture including retail agricultural operations, agrMourism, and non-agricultural countryside uses. It would be appropriate for the "Proposed Directions" to be revised to establish two different 'rural areas' for inclusion in the ROP, which better recognizes the diverse rural conditions. 018 Report PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 7 2.3 Also, Regional staff proposes using the policies contained in the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) as the basis for many of the "Proposed Directions" on the natural environment. Justification for using an approach based on the ORMCP is required, given that the Oak Ridges Moraine is so unique and significant. The proposed Direction to establish 'standard' setbacks from natural heritage features in the rural area is inappropriate. Setbacks are typically established through detailed environmental reports at the local level through site-specific review. City staff agrees with the importance of conserving the environmental system. However, the detailed policies are more appropriate in local official plans. The Region should build on those policies, and local decisions, in a collaborative manner. The "Proposed Directions" in the rural discussion paper are proposing that all new golf course proposals and golf course expansions be considered by amendment to the ROP. The current ROP policy permits the establishment of golf courses within urban areas, Major Open Space System and Waterfront designations, subject to an amendment to either the ROP or local official plans. There is no value to the planning process by duplicating local planning efforts. The ROP should provide broad strategic directions for golf course proposals and rely on local official plans to provide detailed implementation policies. Regional staff has indicated that many of the "Proposed Directions" are primarily for the benefit of the Townships of Brock and Uxbridge where there is no local official plan coverage for the rural areas. The Region should consider a two-tier planning document that prescribes broader strategic policies for local municipalities with comprehensive official plans and more detailed policies for the municipalities without rural official plan coverage. This is in keeping with the current ROP where some policies are not to be applied where local official plan policies are in place. It is unnecessary and confusing to include detailed policies and maps on the same topic in both regional and local official plans. This Official Plan Review needs to address Pickering's urban land needs in light of the area of natural heritage features on the Seaton lands. The "Population, Employment and Urban Land" Discussion Paper identifies most of Seaton, with the exception of the areas designated Open Space System in the current Pickering Official Plan (POP), as being developable (see Attachment #1 -Regional Official Plan Designations with POP Open Space Overlay). The Discussion Paper includes a summary of land surplus or deficit for the period from 2001 to 2031 for Pickering. The Region estimates a shortfall of urban land for Pickering of 112 hectares at 2026. Report PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 8 019 2.4 A more recent analysis of the Seaton lands, as part of the City's on-going Growth Management Study (GMS), has found that a significant portion of the Living Area and Employment Area in the Regional Map is part of a natural heritage system (see Attachment #2 - Region Designations with Pickering Growth Management Study Natural Heritage Overlay). Further, the Main Central Area in the Regional Map is located within the Urfe Environmental Sensitive Area (ESA), a large core environmental area. It is estimated that approximately 330 hectares of Living Area and 500 hectares of Employment Area would be lost to this expanded natural heritage system. The Discussion Paper assumes 50% of the land designated Living Area remains to be developed as residential. The other 50% is used for roads, schools, parks, commercial, and stormwater management facilities. By contrast, the City's Growth Management Study assumes only 35% of the Living Area for residential development. There is a concern that the assumption in the Discussion Paper over estimates the number of houses that can be built on the land designated Living Area. With updated information on the Seaton lands, and different assumptions about lands required for other community services and facilities, the urban land shortfall for Pickering occurs sooner than 2021. Pickering's 20-year growth targets cannot be accommodated within its current urban area boundary. The "Proposed Directions" do not provide sufficient lands for growth in Durham and Pickering. The shortfall of urban land needs to be addressed now instead of reviewing adjustments to the urban area boundaries as part of the next comprehensive 5.year ROP Review in 2007. Despite significant growth in Durham Region projected by 2021 and 2031, the "Population, Employment and Urban Land" Discussion Paper is proposing to maintain the current urban boundaries, and to give consideration to adjustments to the urban area boundaries as part of the next comprehensive 5-year Regional Official Plan Review in 2007. According to the Paper, there is no basis for changing Durham's urban area boundary and there is no need to require additional lands until 2026. However, as discussed in section 2.3 of this Report, the analysis of Pickering's land inventory based on new information identifies a land shortfall in less than 20 years. The Provincial Policy Statement establishes a 30-year time frame for regional official plans in the Greater Toronto Area. The Policy Statement also provides local municipalities the opportunity to designate sufficient land for urban uses and for an appropriate range and mix of housing, to accommodate growth up to a 30-year planning horizon. Report PD 06-04 0 2(7) Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: February 5, 2004 Page 9 2.5 Pickering has insufficient urban land for a 20-year planning horizon (the year 2021). The urban land shortage is more severe for the 30-year planning horizon (the year 2031). The Region needs to establish an urban boundary framework for the next 30-years, which would enable local municipalities to undertake their planning reviews. Waiting until the next review in 2007 (considering that the current ROP Review has taken over three years so far) could mean that local municipalities are not in a position to have approved secondary plans for nearly 10 years from now. Regional staff has indicated that if Pickering's 20-year growth forecast cannot be accommodated within its current urban area boundary, any remaining share could be transferred to Oshawa and Clarington. Any transfer of Pickering's share elsewhere potentially impacts the City's long-term finances, derived in part from growth and development, to support community infrastructure and services. The shortfall of urban land should be addressed in this comprehensive review. Council should request Regional staff to revise the "Proposed Directions" in light of the City's comments on the Discussion Papers, prior to initiating amendments to the ROP. A copy of staff's detailed comments on the "Proposed Directions", as set out in the Discussion Papers, is provided for Council's review and endorsement (see Attachment #3). Clarification, duplication, and deficiencies relating to the "Proposed Directions" have been noted. The "Proposed Directions" relating to the commercial policy review are appropriate. Further, the issues previously endorsed by City Council in Report PD 46-00 (Revised) on Phase 1 of the Official Plan Review are listed in a chart attached to this Report (see Attachment #4). As the Chart shows, the Discussion Papers have not addressed all of the issues raised previously by the City in Report PD 46-00 '(Revised). It is recommended that Council request Regional staff to address the City's comments raised in Report PD 06-04 on the Durham Regional Official Plan Review- Phase 2 and issue a "Revised Directions" paper, prior to preparing amendments to the ROP. Attachments: Map 1 - Regional Official Plan Designations with POP Open Space Overlay Map 2 - Regional Official Designations with Pickering Growth Management Study Natural Heritage Overlay Chad ! - Staff Comments on "Proposed Directions" in Discussion Papers Chad: £ - ~_T: Comments or~ Phase I of the ROP Review Report PD 06-04 Subject: Durham Regional Official Plan Review Date: Februaw 5,2004 Page 10 Prepared By: Approved / Endorsed By: Grant McGregor, MClI~, RPP Principal Planner ~ Policy Catherine Rose Manager, Policy GM:Id Attachments Copy: Chief Administrative Officer Director, Operations & Emergency Services Director, Corporate Services & Treasurer Division Head, Corporate Projects and Policy Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council ..-., .. Thoma/s.J. Qu~, Ch~6 24 Sideline 26 Sideline !" 16 Sideline )(VP¥ -I0 NMO/ Brob 20 Sideline 0 0 0 22 Sideline 26 Sideline P1~l e!x!o 28 Sideline North Rd 32 Sideline 'York Durham Lri line P~I ~lueqaso~l § O P~J )lueqeso~l aUlleP!8 ~$ Tline eU!lJ. 6u!Je)lO!cl tueq~tJel~ I,~lVH~l~Vl/~ JO N/V~O.L Region of Durham Official Plan Review Phase 2 O22 DisCusSion :POlicy ProPosed Directions staff commentS paPers Areas Towards a Sustainable and Healthy j Environment Protecting It is proposed that policies in the Agree with watershed planning. However Water ROP be enhanced by identifying the cost and time required for completing Resources the minimum components of a watershed plans can be prohibitive. The watershed plan, and requiring Region should also be cognizant of the preparation and approved subwatershed plans within the implementation of watershed existing, urbanized areas of local plans as a pre-requisite to municipalities. These subwatershed plans development, provide the basis for reviewing site-specific development proposals. The Direction should be flexible to recognize subwatershed plans or site-specific studies that meet the intent of watershed planning. Wording should give guidance, not be mandatory. There is also no need to include the minimum components of a watershed plan in the ROP as watershed standards or components are continually changing. It is also recommended that additional wording be included to require the Region to use Watershed Plans and their implementation strategies to guide the review of development proposals and infrastructure projects. Protecting It is proPOsed that ROP policies Water be enhanced to protect surface Resources and groundwater quantity by: · requiring an amendment to Requires clarification. The Direction the ROP for any application duplicates the provisions of the Ontario made under the Planning Act Water Resources Act. Also, the effect of the that proposes to remove proposed direction needs clarification by more than 50,000 L/d using more precise terminology (e.g.: who groundwater or surface and how would an application be deemed to water, and/or is deemed to have potential negative impacts?). The have potential negative Region should consider different standards impacts on water quantity; for development applications within rural and and urban areas. · ensuring that aquifer recharge areas and infiltration rates are protected in the consideration of development applications. Policies to minimize the establishment of impervious surfaces through the ~ , t development process should be considered Discussi°n I /~°r ie~;sY' pose rec s Papers Pro d Di tion Staff Comments Protecting It is proposed that ROP policies Water ensure the protection of I Resources groundwater quality by: (continued) ,~ including a constraints map Agree with protecting the groundwater identifying aquifer vulnerability resource. However, the ROP should contain j areas and policies that restrict broad principles for groundwater protection the types of uses that are and leave the detailed policies in local OP's. permitted, to only those which do not pose a risk to groundwater. Proposed development within or adjacent to these areas would be subject to an environmental impact study which verifies that there will be no impact; · including a constraints map Duplicates Pickering OP, which has an identifying significant Informational Map of Known Areas of groundwater discharge areas Groundwater Recharge and Discharge. This and policies to ensure that map could be updated with new information these areas are protected provided bytheRegion. through the development approval processes; · protecting capture zones for Policies not applicable as there are no municipal wells from uses that. Regional wells in Pickering. have the potential to contaminate or unnecessarily deplete the water resource. This will implement the findings of the .Regional Wellhead Protection Program; and · specifically requiring any land Requires clarification. The specific type of use proposal having the proposals having the 'potential' to impact potential to impact water requires specification. There is also the need quality or quantity to submit a to clarify both the 'peer review' process for hydrogeological study at the hydrogeological studies submitted with time of application, development applications and the responsibility for any associated well monitoring requirements imposed as a condition of approval Enhancing It is proposed that the ROP Natural policies be enhanced to protect Heritage the natural heritage features in Features the Region by: · recognizing, in the place of Agree with protecting natural heritage environmentally sensitive features. However, requiring the same high areas, a Natural Heritage level of protection for all Regional natural~ System for all areas of the features as for the Oak Ridges Moraine, Region, that aligns with the which is so significant and sensitive has not system already in place for the be justified. The Direction duplicates Oak Ridges Moraine. To Pickering OP, which has policies and accomplish this, it is proposed schedules pertaining to natural heritage that Natural Heritage System features. mapping and policies be incorporated into the Fian; Enhancing · including vegetative setbacks If the Natural Heritage System is to be Natural Heritage Features (continued} from Natural Heritage Features in rural areas, based on standards established for the Oak Ridges Moraine. Setbacks for Natural Heritage Features in Urban Areas and Hamlets will be determined through the preparation of an Environmental Impact Study; encouraging the protection of linkages and corridors in the consideration of development applications, and the formulation of more detailed policies in the area municipal official plans; establishing a target for woodland coverage of 30% of the Region's land area; and encouraging the preparation of area municipal tree strategies that will advance the implementation of the woodlands coverage target. mapped in the ROP, there needs to be a process to evaluate how the proposed mapping is consistent with the designations in the Pickering OP, (e.g., that where similar information is in local plan, local plan prevails). Further, it is unclear as to whether the Natural Heritage Features are identified on one map, or a series of separate maps for each type of heritage feature. There is no need to include a Table listing setbacks from Natural Heritage Features in the ROP. Setbacks are typically established either through consultation with the appropriate conservation authority or through an environmental report at the local level Agree with protecting linkages and corridors. However, the Pickering OP already has policies defining the role of core areas, corridors, and linkages in the natural landscape. Regional scale linkages and corridors are currently shown in the Pickering OP. Agree with a woodland coverage target. However, the rationale for a 30% target has not been provided. Also, the implementation methodology is not clear- will the 30% be a mandatory requirement in each watershed?. How will it be implemented on individual properties? Will it be mandatory in urban areas? How will it be monitored/calculated so that it can be implemented for each development application ? Agree with encouraging local tree strategies. 025 Discussion ] Proposed Directions Policy Papers Areas Enhancing I It is proposed that the Region, in Natural f consultation with area Heritage municipalities, stakeholders, and clariA/ who is responsible for securing Staff Comments Agree with developing a land securement strategy. However, the Region needs to Features other agencies involved in land' funding, implementing, and monitorin-g-;-i~t (continued) ~ securement, develop a land securement strategy. Aisc, it is not clear if securement strategy to protect the Region is proposing to be involved in key natural resources within the securing properties for long-term protection. Region. t Any land securement strategy, if pursued, I must be broadly based and developed in partnership with appropriate stakeholders. Enhancing It is also proposed that the ROP Agree with conveying a natural heritage Natural be amended to allow the feature for long-term protection. However, Heritage consideration of a severance that the Direction is too restrictive. There may Features facilitates the conveyance of a be instances where severing the heritage natural heritage feature to a publicfeature creates two retained parcels, one body or non-profit entity for on either side of the feature. conservation purposes, provided that no more than one lot is retained by the original owner. Improving the It is proposed that appropriate Agree with addressing air quality. Region's Air amendments to the ROP However, further discussion with the Quality addressing air quality be Region is required on the issue of air considered as a result of quality initiatives and impacts at the local initiatives, such as the Regional level. Air Quality Working Group and Transportation Master Plan currently underway. Improving the It is also proposed that the ROP Agree with addressing climate change. Region's Air be amended to acknowledge the However, further discussion with the Quality potential implications of climate Region is required on the specific ability of change, and indicate an intent to local municipalities to respond to climate respond as knowledge and change through land use planning understanding of what can be initiatives. done from a planning perspective, to mitigate impacts emerges. Measuring It is proposed that the Region Agree with monitoring. However, how does the Health and consider initiating a program to monitoring the key indicators of the Sustainability monitor key indicators of the Community Strategic Planning Process of the Region's Region's environmental, social relate to the ROP review? What are the key Communities and economic health as part of indicators and how would they be the Community Strategic monitored? Would local municipalities be Planning Process. responsible for providing the Region with data in support of this program? Environmental It is proposed that the ROP be Agree with the principle. However, the Policy amended to include a provision Direction duplicates the Pickering OP, Considerations outlining the process that must which has policies relating to the be satisfied prior to development development of contaminated sites. There 3roceeding in areas where soil are also Provincial requirements that have contamination is known or to be addressed. suspected. ', Discussion Papers Policy Areas Proposed Directions Environmental It is proposed that the ROP be Policy amended to encourage local Considerations municipalities to incorporate policies in their officiaJ plans Iand/or pass by-laws to minimize light pollution. Staff Comments Agree with the principle. However, the Direction dupficates the Picketing OP, which has policies encouraging the reduction of light pollution on the nighttime sky and affecting nearby residents. 027 Discussion Policy Proposed Directions Papers Areas Staff Comments Population, Employment and Urban Land Poputafion It is proposed that the ROP and policies be amended to Employment incorporate and/or address the Forecasts results of the population and employment growth forecasts as follows: · by changing the planning Agree. A 30-year time frame provides local horizon year in the ROP from municipalities with the opportunity to 2021 to2031; designate sufficient land for industrial, I commercial, residential, recreational, open space and institutional uses to accommodate growth up to the timeframe of the ROP. · by replacing the population Agree. Population forecasts for Pickering targets in the ROP with the consistent with the City's Growth recommended population Management Study. Revisions to Table forecasts contained in to reflect new statistical information should Table 1; be permitted without an amendment to the ROP. · by presenting the population Agree. forecasts in five-year increments to the year 2031 reflect ng growth expectations based on the best information currently available; · by replacing the employment Agree. Although optimistic in the short targets by category in the term, the employment to population ratio of ROP with an overall jobs to 1:2 should be maintained (west Durham is population ratio target based best positioned to support increased on the employment forecasts; employment). · by continuing to place strong Agree. Poficies that are supportive of local emphasis on more effective efforts to strength the economic health of means of achieving the jobs municipafities is appropriate. The ROP to population target ratio; and should reference the Regional Economic Development Strategy developed in partnership with local municipal/ties. I · by regularly monitoring Agree. Monitoring and updating population population forecasts and forecasts would assist local municipafities recognizing that they are in preparing capital budgets, land use subject to change within the needs and infrastructure planning. There planning horizon, particularly needs to be more coordination of regular in the longer term. population updates between the Region and local re'un/c/pal/ties so that numbers and assumptions are cons/stent. :DisCUssiOn , /~°r le';sY: proposed Directions : staff comments Urban Land It is proposed that the ROP Requirements policies be amended to , incorporate and/or address the ' results of the urban land needs analysis as follows: · by maintaining the current Disagree. The Region's urban land needs Urban boundaries to provide analysis should take account of the City's the opportunity for a number Growth Management Study natural of ongoing initiatives, heritage analysis for the Seaton lands. including Highway 407, Land supply shortage in Picketing is more Seaton, Pickering Airport severe than presented. and Smart Growth, that will have a significant impact on Regional growth, to evolve; ,, by recognizing that Disagree. Pickering's current urban area is adjustments to the urban insufficient to accommodate its population area boundaries may be and employment growth to 2026. This considered as part of the ROP Review should complete the next comprehensive 5-year boundary review to provide a 30-year land review; and supply. · by proposing no expansions Disagree. Current employment lands to designated Employment designated in Picketing along the Brock Areas. Road corridor are restricted from development given the recent review of those lands and their high environmental sensitivity. More employment land is required. O29 Discussion Policy Proposed Directions Staff Comments Papers Areal Commercial I Policy Review I ~ The Region's It is proposed that the ROP Interest in policies be amended to: Planning for · provide a more general Agree. A more general commercial Future framework that sets out framework in the ROP is appropriate. No Commercial procedural requirements, need for a duplicate layer of commercial Development goals and objectives for poficies in the ROP. area municipalities to plan commercial areas; and · establish criteria, which Agree: A definition for regional involvement defines Regional interest in the planning process for regional 'centres' as a commercial is appropriate. proposal of 600,000 square feet or larger, on an individual or cumulative basis. Requirements It is proposed that the ROP for Market policies be amended to: Studies · remove the requirements Agree. The removal of the retail impact study for a retail impact study requirement for commercial proposals is for commercial proposal appropriate. The Region need not be over 2,500 square metres involved in small-scale commercial (26,910 square feet); development proposals that are clearly not and regional in role or function. · · require a retail impact Agree. Requiring retail impact studies for study for applications, regional centers of 60,000 square metres or which would result in greater is appropriate. However, minor the creation of a new expansions to existing regional 'centres' regional 'centre', or the should be exempt from the requirements for expansion of an existing a retail impact study. regional 'centre', and which meet the established criteria forI Regional involvement (600,000 square feet or larger). Commercial It is proposed that the ROP Agree. More general principles relating to Hierarchy and be amended to establish the role, scale and form of Central Areas in Central Area the intended role, scale the ROP is appropriate. The Picketing OP Definitions and form of Central Areas. contains policies/directions for development The policies should in Central Areas. establish principles to guide local municipalities in preparing secondary plans I or approving development I ~roposals in these areas. Fi°°rSpace It is Proposed that the Agree. The remoVal of the retail floor space Allocations policies, which establish a//ocations in the ROP as a means of l for Centra~ floor space allocations in directing and contro//ing commercial growth Areas Central Areas as a method is appropriate. of directing commercial growth within the Region, be modified to describe the Central Areas in terms of their relative scale. Nodes and It is proposed that the ROP Agree. The use of regional road frontages Corridors policies be amended to for a broader range and size of commercial incorporate a more flexible uses is appropriate. The Picketing OP approach to the use of adequately protects for mixed use corridor arterial roads for development. commercial purposes, within a concept of nodes and corridors that would establish main arterials, such as Highway 2, Taunton Road and certain north-south roads such as Simcoe and Brock Street, as corridors for commercial use. Nodes and It is also proposed that the Agree. The use of regional road frontage for Corridors policies be strengthened to a mixture of high intensity uses including promote higher density, retail is also appropriate. As well, mixed uses along arterial commercial development at the periphery of roads, and that more employment lands is appropriate. flexibility be provided for commercial uses to locate at the periphery of designated Employment Areas. Urban Form It is proposed that the Agree. However, the design criteria study Region establish design must be undertaken in full consultation with criteria for Regional arterial local municipalities. The design criteria must roads, also support local official plans and be responsive to a wide variety of local conditions. The Pickering OP has detailed design policies in the form of Development Guidelines for Pickering's south urban area. Magnitude of It is proposed that the ROP General criteria to guide future site Retail Growth policies be amended to designations for commercial centers should establish design criteria to relate solely to regional 'centers' of guide future site designations 60,000 square metres or more. Criteria for for commercial centers smaller scale retail centres that are currently (Central Areas) oermitted in the Living Area designation should not be in the ROP. Similarly, as site planning is a local matter, specific design I criteria should only be in local OPb. 0 3 .t Discussion Policy Proposed Directions Staff Comments Papers Areas Protecting our Rural Resources I Rural It is proposed that the Disagree. There is no need to change the Consent policy, which provides for current ROPpolicy. Policies the consideration of the . severance of a surplus dwelling from a nonabutting farm by amendment, be deleted. Rural It is proposed that the There is no need to change the current Consent policy that permits the ROP, as the poficy is already restrictive. The Policies consideration of one farm policy only permits one retirement lot from retirement lot from the total farmer's total farm-related land holdings. If farm holding be deleted, problems are encountered with current poficy, need to examine the criteria for retirement lots. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Agree with intent of Direction to allow Consent be amended to enhance severance. However, the ROP should Policies the criteria related to the provide general poficies enabling consents consideration of farm- with local OP's providing the detailed policies related industrial uses to for farm-related industrial uses. There is no ensure that severances for need for the Region to prescribe detailed these uses do not create criteria in the ROP. non-viable agricultural parcels. It is also proposed that the ROP be amended to indicate that further detail on the types of uses that may be considered, and the criteria, may be provided in area municipal official plans. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Agree with intent of Direction to allow Consent be amended to permit severance. However, the ROP should Policies "stand alone" farm-related provide general policies enabling consents commercial uses in a with local OP's providing the detailed policies manner similar to farm- for "stand alone" farm-related commercial related industrial uses uses. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Agree with intent of Direction to allow Consent be enhanced to clarify the accessory farm uses. However, the ROP Policies intent and nature of should provide general policies on accessory accessory farm uses, farm uses with local OP's providing the addressing such matters detailed policies. as scale and number, and potential impacts on surrounding uses. It is also proposed that the area municipalities be encouraged to include detailed policies in their official plans to address ~ I this issue. 032 Discussion Policy . . .. '. Proposed Directions Staff Comments ~'apers Areas Rural t s proposed that the The problem is not how to meet the Settlement Reaion work with the area requirements of a settlement capacity study Policies municipalities to develop but rather the study is complex, onerous, detailed guidelines for the and prohibitively expensive to complete. preparation of settlement There needs to be flexibility in its application capacity studies, respecting major and minor development within hamlets. The requirements for a settlement capacity study needs to be defined with respect to the scale of the project and local conditions. A different approach to hamlet development is required. The Region's Direction to develop more detailed guidelines for settlement capacity studies does not address the issue. It is also proposed that the Agree with intent of Direction to provide more Hamlet policies be clarified details in an official plan on hamlet to more closely reflect the development. However, the ROP should form, type and limited provide general policies for hamlet scale of development development and rely on local OP's to planned for Hamlets. provide the detailed policies. The details for one hamlet, as identified through a local study, may differ from another hamlet. There is no need for the Region to prescribe detailed policy in the RQP. Rural It is proposed that the Disagree. There is no need to change the Settlement policies that provide for the current ROP policy as it permits country Policies consideration of new residential subdivisions subject to meeting Country Residential certain requirements including a municipal Subdivisions be deleted, wide analysis demonstrating the need and amount for such development. A portion of Pickering's rural population is to be accommodated in new country residential subdivisions, if approved by Council. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Disagree. Settlement be amended to remove Policies policies that permit the identification of new clusters. Policies to permit lot creation within existing clusters should be retained. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Disagree. Settlement policy which permits rural Policies residential infilling within concentrations of 4 hectare (10 acre)lots be deleted. Discussion Policy Proposed Directions Staff Comments Papers Areas I Rural It is proposed that the ROP No comment. !Settlement be amended to permit Policies ~ limited new Rural Employment Areas in the Townships of Brock Uxbridge and Scugog, subject to the preparation of a comprehensive industrial study for the municipality. To provide guidance, the ROP should also be amended to add specific study requirements that must be followed to establish the need and location of new Rural Employment Areas. Rural To address these issues, it Non-farm Use is proposed that the ROP Policies be amended to: · prohibit golf courses in Disagree. The exclusion of goff courses from Agricultural Areas; all agricultural areas including lands of lower · specifically require the agricultural capability will result in redirecting submission of a golf course proposals to lands within the Hydrogeological Study open space system of both rural and urban that assesses the areas. impacts on water quality and quantity; · require the submission Further, there is greater potential to disrupt of a Best Management the ecological and hydrological features and Practices report that functions that support open space areas. addresses design, construction and The current ROP policy works well, which operational considerations, permits the establishment of golf courses including traffic; within ut'ban areas, Major Open Space · require area municipal System and Waterfront designations, subject official plans to limit the ~o an ame,~dment to either the ROP or local scale of clubhouses and official plans. Instead of duplicating poficies, other associated uses in the ROP should provide broad strategic rural areas to ensure directions for golf course proposals and rely such uses will be on [ocai OP's to provide detailed secondary to the implementation policies. primary use of the golf course; Discussion Policy PapersA,~a~'~-~ Proposed Directions Staff Comments Rural . require all proposed Non-farm Use new golf courses and Policies golf course expansions (continued) in the Region be considered by amendment to the ROP; · require the submission of technical studies in support of golf course proposals in conjunction with the ROP amendment application; and · require a program to Support Direction. However, the mechanism, monitor before, during justification, and responsibility for monitoring and after construction must be first determined. conditions to ensure environmental and other technical standards are met. Rural It is proposed that the Support Direction. Non-farm Use policies, as they pertain to Policies designating Regional Nodes in urban areas, be removed; and further, that no new Regional Nodes be considered in the rural area. The grandfathering of existing rural Nodes should be considered. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Non-farm Use policies be updated and/or Policies enhanced: · to reflect new (current) Partially agree. Updating Maps and geological, socio-cultural Schedules with new information appropriate. and environmental An amendment to the ROP for aggregate constraint information related industrial uses should only be and license status of necessary where local OP policies are aggregate resource absent. The ROP should provide broad extraction areas (Map strategic directions for aggregate proposals 'A', Map 'C' and and rely on local OP's to provide detailed Schedule 4); implementation policies. · to require an assessment of operational aspects of pits and quarries, such as exhaust emissions and lighting impacts, and that the Plan require that mitigation measures be provided for all potential impacts of the operation, at the time aggregate related amendment applications are being considered; , 035 Discussion Papers Policy to require that rehabilitation be undertaken in a timely manner, and that the site be restored to its pre-excavation landform. Also, policy should be added to require that rehabilitation sites be restored to either the same soil capability as pre-excavation, or to a vegetative state using native species; to clarify the requirement for development of an overall rehabilitation program to ensure that: rehabilitation plans are submitted in conjunction with ROP amendment applications; rehabilitation plans be reviewed in conjunction with the submitted ElS in accordance with policy 2.3.17 of the ROP; and, that such rehabilitation plans be considered in conjunction with adjacent and/or groups of operations in an area; and to specify that Site Plans and technical reports, as required by the Provincial Standards established under the Aggregate Resources Act and Regulations, should be submitted, where appropriate, to address the requirements of the ROP. Areas Rural Non-farm Use Policies (continued) Staff Comments Disagree. Site planning is a local responsibility. Agree with the principle of regulating peat extraction activities but question the appropriateness for a provision in the ROP. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Non-farm Use be amended to reflect that Policies peat extraction activities are to be regulated through the new Municipal Act, Rural It is proposed that the ROP Non-farm Use be amended by deleting the Policies policy that permits the consideration of gas stations and/or gas bars in the Agricultural Area and Major Open Space System. Agree. Picketing OP permits a retail gasoline outlet within the urban area or within a rural hamlet only. Page 03B Discussion : Policy ' ' omm nts .... ~. ',,.~.~ :Proposed DirectIons Staff C e Paper~ A,eas · Rural It is proposed that the ROP Disagree, There is no need to change the Non-farm Use policy, which permits current ROP policy except to require an Policies cultural facilities, health amendment to the local official plan for the (continued) , facilities and community establishment of cultural facilities, health facilities in the rural area facilities and community facilities in the rural be deleted, area. Each application should be considered on its planning merits. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Disagree. The current ROP policy works Non-farm Use should be revised to well, which permits the establishment of Policies prohibit the establishment cemeteries subject to an amendment to of cemeteries in prime either the ROP or local OP's. A policy could agricultural areas, be added directing cemeteries to lower class agricultural land. Rural It is proposed that the ROP Disagree. The types of recreational uses Non-farm Use be amended to distinguish permitted within open space areas in the Policies between recreational uses, rural and urban areas should be detailed in which are compatible with local OP's not the ROP. the character of the open space lands in the urban and rural areas. Agricultural It is proposed that the Disagree. The Region needs to address the Designations ROP's two Agricultural differences in agriculture within Durham's Area designations, municipalities especially adjacent to urban Permanent Agricultural and areas. The Region should also consider General Agricultural, be amending the ROP policies to enhance merged into one land use economic opportunities for the agricultural designation for the purpose community by permitting a wider array of of agriculture and farm- uses such as retail agricultural operations, related land uses. agri-tourism and non-agricultural countryside uses. The Region should recognized two types of rural areas - the near-urban countryside with greater diversity of uses and a more pure agricultural area in north and east Durham -- and establish separate policies for each. j:~mcgregorg\regionopreview\Proposed Directions Char[{Draft 4f).doc Page 15 03';' ATTAOHMENT # ..... ~,. ....... Region of Durham Officia~ Plan Review Phase 1 suggested Refinements to the ROP, as recommended in AepoA Number PD 46;00 (Re¥ised) Environmental Policy Clarify policy 2.3.17 of the ROP to specify that the Region shall conduct environmental impact studies only when a Regional Official Plan amendment is necessary. Update the environmentally sensitive areas designations. Recognize the Lake Iroquois Shoreline in policy and designation with appropriate protection for its associated natural functions. Economic Development Policy · Clarify meaning of "employment related to population". Housing Policy · Update housing polices in response to changes to Provincial policies and programs since the ROP was adopted in 1991. Clarify policy 4.3.3 (b) that the conversion of buildings to residential use would not be permitted in employment areas. Revise policy 4.3.4 to support renovations to existing rental housing provided the costs are not borne by the occupants. Revise policy 4.3.5 (a) to refer to the annual rental vacancy surveys conducted by CMHC. Commercial Policy ; proposed DireCti Ons in Re¢iOmS Bis c uss ion paCers Not Addressed. Addressed. Not Addressed. Review commercial policies to ensure that community needs for retailing are addressed. Addressed. Not Addressed. Not Addressed. Not Addressed. Not Addressed. Addressed. Page ! suggeSted Refinements t° the ROP, as recommended in Repod Number PD 46"00 (Revised) Employment Areas Policy Review appropriateness of current restrictive list of uses and adequacy of the amount and location of employment area lands. Agricultural Policy Review policy 12.3.12 to restrict new residential dwellings on .retained farmed parcels to prevent incremental fragmentation of agricultural areas. Major Open Space System Policy Delete urban separator purpose from the Major Open Space designation or in the alternative, add an overlay designation to identify lands with significant natural feature features and functions. Major Open Space System Policy Revise policies 14.3.25 and 20.7.12 to specify the conditions under which severances will be permitted on major open space lands. Clarify as to whether a dwelling unit on a vacant property designated Major Open Space or Agricultural Area is permitted if the property is not use for agricultural or farm related uses. Format of the ROP Revise the ROP by creating separate large-scale maps for each municipality. Revise the ROP with the addition of an index. proposed Directions in Region,s DisCuSSion Papers Addressed. Addressed. Addressed. Not Addressed. Not Addressed. Not Addressed. Not Addressed. J:~REGIONALOPREVIEW\PICKERINGCHART FOR OPR.DOC 039 RECOMMENDATION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DATE MOVED BY SECONDED BY 1. That Report OES 11-04 regarding the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA properties, be received; and 2. That Council support in principle the Management Plan, including the proposed Trail Plans and the recommendation for the creation of a Community Stewardship Committee to help with implementation. REPORT TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Report Number: OES-11-04 Date: February 2, 2004 04O From: Richard Holborn, P. Eng. Division Head, Municipal Property & Engineering Subject: Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan For TRCA Properties Recommendation: That Report OES-11-04 regarding the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan For TRCA Properties be received; and That Council support in principle the Management Plan, including the proposed Trail Plans and the recommendation for the creation of a Community Stewardship Committee to help with implementation. Executive Summary: The TRCA in partnership with a public advisory committee undertook to create a management plan for seven (7) TRCA properties located in the headwaters of the Duffins Creek Watershed. Of these seven properties a small portion of the Glen Majors Resource Management Tract and all of the Claremont Filed Centre are located in the City of Pickering. The remaining properties are located north of Pickering in the Township of Uxbridge.. The implications of the Management Plan for the tracts of land that are located within the City of Pickering are limited to trail improvements. These improvements will help to keep visitors on the designated walking paths. The only new section of trail envisioned for these lands is Pickering's portion of the Trans Canada Trail, which has been endorsed by Council. No significant alterations to the public use or the physical lay of these lands are planned. Financial Implications: Not Applicable Background: The purpose of completing the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan was to examine the lands in detail and develop an appropriate level and type of management to ensure environmental sustainability of the properties. The Goal of the plan was "To protect, conserve and manage the TRCA headwater properties within an ecosystem framework, anc~ in consultation with the community, ensuring watershed health, public enjoyment and environmental sustainability." 04 i Report OES 11-04 Date: February 2, 2004 Subject: Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties Page 2 The Management Plan was developed utilizing an ecosystem approach, which identified and ranked the natural and cultural heritage resources for the properties. For each property detailed management recommendations, concept plans and trail plans were developed. The Advisory Committee that assisted with the project was made up of representation from the following organizations: Uxbridge Cycling Association Green Door Alliance Durham Conservation Association Uxbridge Horse Riders Association Uxbridge Conservation Association Hike Ontario Oak Ridges Trail Association Uxbridge Naturally Ontario Heritage Foundation Glen Major Angling Club Township of Uxbridge, Regional Councillor Township of Uxbridge, Local Councillor Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources - staff The Regional Municipality of Durham - staff The Advisory Committee fully supports the Management Plan and in particular the proposed trail plans and the recommendation for the creation of a community stewardship committee to be involved with the implementation plan. The Management Plan was approved by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority at Authority Meeting #6/03 held July 25, 2003 by Resolution #A158/03. Attachments: 1. Report to Chair and Members of the Public Use Advisory Board, July 4, 2003. 2. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties. CORP0227-07/01 Report OES 11-04 Date: February 2, 2004 Subject: Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties Page 3 042 Prepared By: Approved / Endorsed John McMullen Coordinator, Landscape & Parks Development Everett Bd:rffsma Director, Operations & Emergency Services RichCd W. H~t/orn, P. Eng. Divis ot~,,.Head, Municipal Property & Engineering JFM Attachments I:\COUNCIL\OES l 1-04.docFeb-04 Copy: Chief Administrative Officer Recommended for the Consideration of Pickering City Council 'T~-c(~J~` Ad min~ 043 TO: FROM: RE: Chair and Members of the Public Use Advisory Board Meeting ¢2/03, July 4, 2003 Adele Freeman, Acting Director, Watershed Management DUFFINS CREEK HEADWATERS MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR TRCA PROPERTIES KEY ISSUE Approval of the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties RECOMMENDATION THE BOARD RECOMMENDS TO THE AUTHORITY THAT the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties, dated June 2003, as attached, be approved; THAT staff circulate the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties to the Ontario Heritage Foundation, the Township of Uxbridge, and the City of Pickering for endorsement; THAT staff send a letter of thanks to the members of the Duffins Creek Headwaters Advisory Committee for their dedicated assistance with the preparation of the Management Plan; THAT copies of the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties be circulated to the members of the Advisory Committee, the Township of Uxbridge, the City of Pickering, and other appropriate agencies, groups and individuals; THAT staff work with the Township of Uxbridge staff to investigate options and. develop a strategy to address limiting access on closed road allowances that are adjacent to TRCA owned land; THAT staff prepare a.report in fall of 2003 on Stewardship Management Plan implementation and the potential for integration with the Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to utilize the Strategy for Public Use on Conservation Authority Lands (1995) when considering new public uses on the TRCA's Duffins Creek Headwater Properties. 044 BACKGROUND A total of seven TRCA properties were included in the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan. The properties consisted of: Goodwood Resource Management Tract · Secord Forest and Wildlife Area · Clubine Agreement Forest · Walker Woods Tract · Glen Major Resource Management Tract · Former Timber Brother Gravel Pit · Claremont Field Centre 110 hectares 93 hectares 38 hectares 429 hectares 1081 hectares 38 hectares 161 hectares These TRCA lands are located in the headwaters of the Duffins Creek watershed, with five of the seven properties being situated completely within the Township of Uxbridge. A small portion at the south end of the Glen Major Resource Management Tract and the entire Claremont Field Centre are located in the City of Pickering. In addition, all of the properties are located on the Oak Ridges Moraine, with the exception of the Claremont Field Centre, which is situated two kilometres to the south. The TRCA owns all of the lands with the exception of 72 hectares in the Glen Major Resource Management Tract, which is owned by the Ontario Heritage Foundation and managed by the TRCA. The entire planning area totals 1950 hectares, which totals seven percent of the watershed drainage area. The planning area is one of the most naturally .diverse in the TRCA jurisdiction, supporting over 120 different vegetation communities, 573 vascular plant species, and 107 different fauna species. All of the properties are situated within the southern portion of the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence floristic region, which is composed of mixed coniferous-deciduous forest. The natural habitats range from mature, organic coniferous swamps, to near-old-growth upland deciduous and mixed forests, conifer plantations, and dry, open, prairie-like communities with complexes of sand barrens. The properties are also significant for their representative contiguous natural cover and extensive interior forest conditions within the TRCA jurisdiction. Specifically, the headwater properties contribute 22 percent towards a total of 37 percent natural cover for the Duffins Creek Watershed. In addition, the properties also contain several provincially significant wetlands and all of the study lands contain groundwater discharge areas in the form of springs, seeps and marshy areas that support high quality cold water fish habitat. 'Historically, lands within the planning area were used primarily for agriculture, reforestation and some aggregate extraction. Currently, these lands are used .for a variety of purposes including conservation, education, outdoor recreation, forest management and agriculture. The TRCA holds rental agreements for four of the eight houses located on the properties, as well as leases for agricultural uses, ski facilities, and filming. In addition, the Authority holds two licensed agreements with the Dagmar Ski Resort and the Durham District School Board. 23 0 4 At Meeting #9/99 held on September 24, 1999, the Authority approved the process for preparing a comprehensive management plan for the seven Duffins Creek headwater properties, Resolution #A246/9~: "THAT staff be directed to proceed with the development of a Glen Major Complex Management Plan; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to establish an Advisory Committee, which would include members of the public, interested community groups, the Township of Uxbridge, Town of Pickering, and Durham Region to assist with the development of the plan and facilitate the opportunity for pub~lc input.' ThePurp0se of completing the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan was to examine the lands in detail and establish an appropriate type and level of management to ensure ' environmental sustainability of the TRCA properties into the future. Please refer to the full management plan document which has been appended as Attachment 1 to this report. The plan was undertaken in five phases with phases one through four focusing on project start-up, background reports, general management zone development and detailed plan and recommendation development. The final phase included plan integration, finalization and approval. At the start of the management plan process, TRCA staff invited thirty individuals to be members of the Advisory Committee. Approximately twenty-five people came to one or more Committee meetings. A broad cross section of interests were represented on the Committee. Members from the following groups participated: · Uxbridge Cycling Association · Green Door Alliance · Durham Conservation Association · Uxbridge Horse Riders Association · Uxbridge Conservation Association · Hike Ontario · Oak Ridges Trail Association · Uxbridge Naturally · Ontario Heritage Foundation · Glen Major Angling Club Town of Uxbridge, Regional Councilor Town of Uxbridge, Local Councilor, · Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources - staff · The Regional Municipality of Durham- staff The Advisory Committee met on twelve occasions since February 2000 and assisted TRCA staff with the development of the management plan. The Committee was actively involved in drafting a vision statement, determining management zones and developing management recommendations. The committee also assisted with the public consultation program. 24 O46 The public consultation program for this project consisted of four public meetings where the vision statement, proposed management zones, management guidelines and recommendations were presented, in addition, newsletters and six different questionnaires were provided to describe the project and invite public input, Plan Vision, Goal, Objectives and Management Principles The vision statement, goal, objectives and management principles were developed by the Adviso,w Committee to be consistent and integrated with both the Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek and the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. Vision: The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority properties in the Duffins Creek Headwaters, which contain diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife and spectacular vistaS, will become a model for pdvate and public land stewardship. These various TRCA properties will'be integrated and expanded through donations, land purchases, conservation easements and planning incentives to protect, conserve and improve ecological i[~tegrity. The properties will be carefully managed and monitored to ensure sustainability and adherence to conservation principles. Appropriate outdoor recreation and environmental awareness will be promoted and managed with a balanced approach. Goal: To protect, conserve and manage the TRCA headwater properties within an ecosystem framework, and in consultation with the community, ensuring watershed health, public enjoyment and environmental sustainability. Objectives: NaturalHeritage-To prOtect, restore and regenerate the natural ecosystem by ensuring the health and diversity of native species, habitats, landscapes and ecological processes. Also, maximizing linkages and connectivity of the natural heritage features to one another and to adjacent areas; Cultural Heritage - To identify, protect and conserve the cultural heritage features for their inherent value and depiction of the long-term human use and occupancy of the area; Land Use -To ensure protection of the ecological integrity and cultural values of the land through innovative planning, management and appropriate conservation, recreation and other land uses; Management- To manage the TRCA headwater properties in a manner that will ensure the achievement of all objectives and to implement Management Plan recommendations, while providing for ongoing public involvement in the management process; Education -To promote knowledge and understanding of the natural and cultural values of the land and water, their protection and management requirements, as well as their significance, sensitivities and interrelationships; 25 047 Stewardship -To promote and facilitate the ongoing public involvement towards a partnership that will foster sustainable living, and will accomplish watershed management objectives, as weli as implement Management Ptan recommendations; Public Use -To provide opportunities for appropriate, accessible public uses, which are consistent with all other objectives. Management Principles o Protect, conserve and regenerate the ecological integrity of the headwater properties. · Ensure natural and cultural heritage sustainability utilizing a cost effective approach. · Promote and monitor the use and enjoyment of the land, ensuring minimal impact to the natural environment by striving for a balance between conservation and appropriate outdoor recreation. · Develop stakeholder awareness, promote cooperation and form partnerships that will enhance steWardship and provide protection of the lands. · Foster community involvement and environmental stewardship that utilizes an integrated approach to planning and implementation strategies. · Recognize, integrate, promote and enhance linkages between the Conservation properties, the Duffins Creek watershed, the Oak Ridges Moraine and other natural and cultural features. · Develop and implement programs and partnerships that protect and enhance the form, features and functions of the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM), i.e., groundwater, natural heritage, land securement, headwater protection and policy framework. · Utilize flexible management approaches and continually evaluate management options to ensure the operations and existing infrastructure are both effective and appropriate. · Restore and naturalize disturbed areas on TRCA property. · Utilize best erosion management practices where appropriate. · Utilize best forest management practices where appropriate. · Expand public land holdings through acquisition, conservation easements, donations and planning incentives. · Effectively manage public use safety issues. · Increase revenues with programs and services where sustainable. Plan Description The Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties was based on the management zoning approach that TRCA has used since 1997, starting with the Claireville Conservation Area Management Plan. The Management Plan was developed by using an ecosystem approach which identified and ranked the natural and cultural heritage resources for the entire property. All of the resource information was integrated to define the management zones and determine their boundaries and potential for public use. 26 048 A maximum total of seven management zones, which identify appropriate resource uses within each zone, were determined for the properties. The zones included a Nature Reserve, Natural Environment, Primary Restoration, Agricultural Reserve, Public Use - education, Public Use - recreation, and Public Use -lease. Approximately 93 percent (1815 ha) of the properties have been designated as Natural Reserve, Natural Environment or Primary Restoration Zones. Permitted resource uses in these zones will range from no formal public use to Iow intensity multi-use trails and educational use. The final routing of all trails will be field checked to ensure environmental suitability. The designated Public Use - recreation zones were established to provide safe public access, parking where appropriate, staging areas and trail head information. Through research, analysis and consultation, detailed management recommendations, concept plans and trail plans were developed and are included in the Plan. At the final meeting of the Duffins Creek Headwaters Advisory C°mmittee, held on June 17, 2003, the Committee recommended that the Management Plan be sent to The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority for approval. RATIONALE A Management Plan for TRCA properties in the Duffins Creek headwaters was needed for the following reasons: integrate Duffins Creek Watershed planning with land management activities and requirements; address Oak Ridges Moraine protection concerns and ensure appropriate natural resource management; provide a framework for determining the ecological appropriateness of any proposed public use to ensure that the integrity, diversity and sustainability of the properties be maintained; · provide an integrated trail plan that would ensure appropriate and safe public use while reducing negative impacts on the environment; prepare for various land use changes in the surrounding area and increased demand' on publicly accessible greenspace. TRCA staff have led the development of the Management Plan with the Advisory Committee providing input and direction into the vision, goal, objectives, management principles, management zones, management recommendations and trail plans. The Advisory Committee fully supports the Management Plan and in particular the proposed trail plans and the recommendation for the creation of a community stewardship committee to be involved with the implementation of the Plan. The proposed Management Plan guidelines and recommendations have been integrated with the Watershed Plan for the Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek and are consistent with the Authority's Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program, the Strategy for Public Use of Conservation Authority Lands, as well as the TRCA's Living City Vision. The public, who have responded at the public meetings, through letters and questionnaires, also support the proposed Management Plan in order to protect the significant greenspace and only allow appropriate public use of the property. The public also indicated that any alterations to the Plan must be subject to a public process. 049 The Management Plan, which includes property concept plans and trail plans, has recommended a maximum of seven management zones including Nature Reserve, Primary Restoration, Natural Envirqnment, Agricultural Reserve, Public Use - education, Public Use - recreation and Public Use - lease. These zones are intended to preserve, protect and enhance the natural, cultural and heritage resources of the area, while directing the kinds of compatible and appropriate uses that may occur within them. The Management Plan also recommends the establishment of a community stewardship committee to undertake implementation actions with TRCA support. Significant community appreciation, enjoyment, stewardship and sustainability of Duffins Creek Headwater properties can be achieved through the proposed Management Plan. DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE Establish appropriate Stewardship Committee(s) to assist with the implementation of the Management Plan, future planning and specific actions to achieve the objectives of the Plan; Utilize the Management Plan to assist with private land stewardship, conservation easements, and to respond to land use planning documents; Pursue a;ppropriate uses and partnerships for the Duffins Creek Headwater Properties and report these to the PubLic Use Advisory Board; · Send copies of the Management Plan, along with a thank you letter to the members of the Advisory Committee. Also, send copies of the Management Plan to the Ontario Heritage Foundation, the Township of Uxbridge, the City of Pickering, and Durham Region for endorsement and request that the document be used in land use planning and other watershed management decisions; Work with the Township of Uxbridge to investigate the options and develop a strategy to address closed road allowances adjacent to TRCA owned land and report back to the Public Use Advisory Board. FINANCIAL DETAILS TRCA staff will pursue partnership arrangements with all sectors to establish compatible uses on the Duffins Creek headwater properties. A portion of the revenues generated from uses on the properties will be returned to implement priority management activities. TRCA will budget $10,000 for Management Plan implementation activities in 2004 under account 408-96. Other opportunities to match funds with funding from other sources such as the provincial and federal governments, The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto and other private foundations, local community groups and private funding sources, will be pursued. Report prepared by: Mike Bender, extension 5287 For Information contact: Mike Bender, extension 5287 Date: June 19, 2003 Attachments: I (included with the agenda package) 28 O50 Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan For TRCA Properties Prepared by: The Duffins Creek Headwaters Advisory Committee and The Conservation Land Planning Group, TRCA June, 2003 onserva TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgements ........................................................... Chapter 1: 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 introduction Overview ........................................................ 8 Location, Site Description and Resource Uses ......................... 13 Study Process ................................................... 15 The Advisory Committee ........................................... 16 Public Consultation ............................................... 17 Chapter 2: 2.1 2.2 Plan Vision, Goal, Objectives and Principles The Management Plan Vision ....................................... 21 Management Plan Goal, Objectives and Management Principles ........... 22 Chapter 3: 3.1 3.2 3.3 Management Zones Management Zone Definitions ...................................... 24 Determining the Management Zones ................................. 25 Permitted Resource Uses .......................................... 25 Chapter 4: 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 General Management Recommendations Natural Heritage .................................................. 34 Human Heritage .................................................. 38 Outdoor Recreation, Education and Tourism ........................... 38 Surrounding Land Use ............................................ 39 Management Zone Recommendations ................................ 42 4.5.1 4.5.2 4.5.3 4.5.4 4.5.5 Nature Reserve ............................................ 42 Natural Environment ........................................ 43 Primary Restoration ........................................ 43 Agricultural Reserve ......................................... 44 Public Use Zones: Recreation, Education and Lease .............. 45 Chapter 5: 5.1 5.2 Concept Plans and Recommendations Goodwood Secord and Clubine Properties ............................ 46 Claremont Field Centre ............................................ 47 Chapter 6: 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Trail Plan and Recommendations General Plans and Recommendations ................................ 48 Goodwood Secord and Clubine Properties ............................ 60 Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest ................................. 61 Claremont Field Centre ............................................ 62 Chapter 7: 7.1 Plan Implementation Future Management .............................................. 63 7.1.1 Agency and Municipal Stewardship ............................ 63 7.1.2 Community Stewardship ..................................... 63 7.! .3 Safety and Security ......................................... 64 Maintenance o; th.. Ivianagement Plan 65 O52 MAPS Map 1 Map 2 Map 3 Map 4 Map 5 Map 6 Map 7a Map 7b Map 7c Map 8 Map 9 Map 10a Map 10b Map 10c Site Locations - Watershed Context Duffins Creek Headwaters Context Existing Rentals/Leases/Agreements Interior Forest Areas Special Designation Areas Oak Ridges Moraine Land Use Designations Management Zones - Goodwood/Secord/Clubine Properties Management Zones - Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest Management Zones - Claremont Field Centre Conservation Easements Goodwood, Secord, Clubine Concept Plan Goodwood Secord Clubine Trail Plan Claremont Field Centre Trail Plan Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest Trail Plan FIGURES Figure 1 Permitted Resources Uses APPENDICES Appendix 1 Appendix 2 Appendix 3 Appendix 4 Appendix 5 Public Meeting Summaries and Questionnaire Results List of Fauna Species List of Flora Species Vegetation Community Scores Forest Management Workshop () 5 3 Acknowledgements Duffins Creek Headwaters Advisory Committee - Active Members Community Groups and Associations: Mr. Tom Blyth, Uxbridge Cycling Association Mr. Brian Buckles, Green Door Alliance Ms. Angle Jones, Durham Conservation Association Ms. Barb Langille, Uxbridge Horse Riders Association Mr. Dave Martin, Uxbridge Conservation Association Mr. Tom Rance, Hike Ontario, Oak Ridges Trail Association Mr. Sean Rupple, Uxbridge Cycling Association Mr. Michael TucKer, Durham Conservation Association Municipal Councillors: Ms. Susan Para, Regional Councillor, Town of Uxbridge Ms. Bev Northeast, Councillor, Town of Uxbridge Other Stakeholders: Ms. Klm Gavine, Ontario Heritage Foundation Mr. Doug Turner, Glen Major Angling Club Provincial Agency- Staff: Mr. Bohdan Kowalyk, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Municipal Agencies and Other - Staff Mr. Chris Darling, The Regional Municipality of Durham Mr. Alexander Georgieff, The Regional Municipality of Durham TRCA - Staff Mr. Mike Bender Mr. Gary Bowen Mr. Dave Dyce Mr. Mike Fitzgerald Ms. Joanne Jeffery Duffins Creek Headwaters Advisory Committee - Additional Members Community Groups and Associations Mr. Fred Beer, Pickering Rural Association Ms. Julie O'Brien, Federation of Ontario Naturalists Mr. Zak Wheeler, International Mountain Biking Association (Ontario Chapter) Municipal Councillors Mr. Rick Johnson, Regional Councillor, City of Pickering Mr. David Pickles, Councillor, City of Pickering Other Stakeholders Mr. Jason Keigal, Goodwood Farms Mr. Gabor Mar[on, Dagmar Ski Resort Provincial Agencies- Staff Ms. Yolanda Bartlet, Ministry of Citizenship, Culture & Tourism Municipal Agencies and Other - Staff Mr. Mike Ewles, Durham Region Police Mr. Al Leach, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Mr. Russ Powell, Central Lake Ontario Conservation 054 CHAPTER 1 NTRODUCT ON !.1 OVERVIEW The Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA properties was prepared to protect, conserve and restore significant lands located on the Oak Ridges Moraine and within the Duffins Creek Watershed. The management planning process was comprised of a series of phases, with each phase being tested and refined to form a solid foundation for the next one that followed. The plan includes a description and evaluation of the property based on relevant plans and policies, existing resource inventories and environmental conditions, site limitations and opportunities. The plan also identifies specific management zones for the site, which provides a framework for the types of activities that will be permitted on different parts of the properties. In addition, the plan establishes priorities for future initiatives, including the protection of natural features and habitat regeneration based on an ecosystem approach to management. The management zones, recommendations and actions were developed through detailed analySis consultation and consensus of the partners, stakeholders and the community. The direction and important actions in the plan will help TRCA and the community achieve the long term sustainability of the Duffins Creek Headwater properties. There is also a detailed concept plan for the Goodwood, Secord and Clubine properties and a trail plan for Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest in the document. It is important that the plan recommendations be initiated and monitored over the next five years to help achieve the management vision. TOWARDS A LIVING CITY REGION The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is committed to community partnerships with all sectors of society, to encourage environmental stewardship and build on innovative thinking about environmental health, social responsibilitY and sustainable economies. TRCA's vision of a Living City Region has three objectives: Healthy Rivers and Shorelines - safe, clean, vibrant rivers and shorelines within nine watersheds of the region. Regional Biodiversity and Greenspace - a rich variety of animals and plants that thrive in a network of greenspaoe. Sustainable Living through Education - People engaging in environmentally friendly practices. Two key TRCA Living City strategies that have been integrated into this Management Plan include: Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June,,~O08 O55 Terrestrial Natural Heritage Strategy A Management Strategy for the Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek Watersheds TRCA's Terrestrial Natura[ Heritage Approach The approach that has been utilized for the development of this Management Plan recognizes the implications of rapid urbanization in the Greater Toronto Area. This approach is based on two principles: ° that rare species protection is not enough for ensuring regional health, and · that the protection of more than "significant sites" is needed to ensure regional health. The approach considers the site within the context ofthe region and regional pressures. It provides clear and detailed direction for gathering and analyzing information about natural habitats, vegetation communities, species, and forms the basis for developing strategies for protection and restoration. The approach moves beyond the contemporary model of defining natural heritage systems based on a series of cores and corridors. It recognizes that all habitat patches have some value and make a contribution towards ecological health across the landscape. This Approach evaluates a site's contribution at three levels: the entire TRCA jurisdiction; other defined areas of planning units such as the sUbwatershed and watershed; and the ORM and other municipal areas. A key component of the TRCA Terrestrial Natural Heritage Approach is the scoring and ranking of vegetation communities and fauna species. The ranking information is utilized to determine if there exists any species or vegetation communities of concern on the site. A second key component ofthe approach includes the terrestrial natural heritage indicators and measures which are used to establish quantitative targets for the terrestrial ecosystem. The indicators include: Quantity of Natural Cover Distribution Matrix Influence Patch Size and Shape Landscape Connectivity Bio-diversity The terrestrial natural heritage information that was gathered was analyzed and used to determine the appropriate management zones and trail alignments. The scoring and ranking of vegetation communities and fauna species reflects the primary resistance to urbanization and human encroachment. Species are ranked based on local distribution or local (L) ranks. These L ranks are in some ways analogous to the provincial (S) and global (G) ranks that are assigned to vegetation communities, flora and fauna. The TRCA ranks range from L1 to L5. Generally, L1 to L3 species or vegetation communities are of regional conservation concern (i.e., within TRCA jurisdiction) and the locations have been avoided. The complete lists of species and vegetation communities for the TRCA properties included in this management plan can be found in Appendices 2, 3 and 4. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June 2003 058 A Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek The Watershed Plan was integrated into the management plan for TRCA headwater properties to ensure a consistent approach to watershed management. The Pian was created by two Task Forces who reviewed scientific da~a and developed strategies to address issues of priority in the watersheds. Members of the Task Forces invited residents and stakeholders to express their concerns, hopes and ideas for the watersheds in a number of public forums. Residents and stakeholders alike came together to craft a vision and a strategy for action. The new watersheds vision focuses on an emerging spirit of cooperation and a willingness to work as partners in the next generation of watershed planning. The watersheds vision is supported by a management philosophy that promotes five key elements: Net Gain, Environment First, Balance Land Use, Human Health and Safety, and Everyone Counts. The management strategies promote an "environment first" philosophy where the watersheds are managed as a system and prevention is emphasized over remediation. In recognition of the importance of system-wide thinking, the Plan promotes a sustainable balance of land uses (urban, rural and agricultural) where the principles of Smart Grow/h are utilized. Linkages between our own human health and the health of our environment are also recognized. The Strategy has seven objectives that will measure its success of achieving sustainable and healthy watersheds for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek, which include: Strengthened foundations for protecting and enhancing the natural diversity of Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek watersheds and have a formal monitoring and reporting system in place to say clearly where we stand; Improved water quality conditions in Carruthers Creek and Duffins Creek, improved habitats and the provision of safe drinking water; Increased our knowledge of human and natural heritage resources in these watersheds and developed educational and outreach programs that support and apply this new knowledge base in the two watersheds and beyond; Increased opportunities for watershed residents and stakeholders to have a greater say in how these places are used and managed; Expanded our knowledge and refined our planning and management practices to reflect the importance of sustaining these systems; Built on existing and established new watershed partnerships that reflect the importance of the Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek watersheds not only in the Regional Municipalities of Durham and York, but beyond; Encouraged private landowners to manage and exercise good stewardship of their lands to promote watershed sustainability. Conservation Authorities Moraine Coalition (CAMO) The CAMC was formed in early 2000 by the nine Conservation Authorities with watersheds on the Oak Ridges Moraine, including from west to east: Buffins Creek bieadwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June. 2003 10 · Credit Valley; Nottawasaga Valley; Toronto & Region: Lake Simcoe Region; Central Lake Ontario; Kawartha; " Ganaraska Region, · Otonabee; and ° Lower Trent. The role of the Coalition was to advocate for ORM protection and its unique features by advancing landform science and understanding. The CAMC also agreed to work towards government, agency and community support for the conservation and protection of moraine form, function and linkages. Since its inception the Coalition was fully involved in and supportive of the Tri-Region ( York, Peel, Durham) policy initiative to protect the ORM. Subsequently, the CAMC was also an active participant in the provincial policy initiative which resulted in the ORM Act and Conservation Plan. Two additional CAMC initiatives include, the technical review of provincial implementation guidelines for the Plan, and developing a CAMC proposal to assist municipalities with Plan implementation. Other specific CAMC projects have included grOundwater and natural heritage studies. The Coalition's hydrogeologist has taken the lead role to coordinate the groundwater management strategy being undertaken on behalf of the Regional Municipalities of York, Peel and Durham. This study will contribute towards providing a regional-scale characterization of the overall groundwater flow system in south-central Ontario and will also set the context for the local scale studies required by the ORM Conservation Plan that could include wellhead protection, watershed studies and water budgets. Many of the CAMC partners have also begun developing natural heritage programs for their watersheds using the ecological land classification (ELC) system and various methods of landscape analysis. The CAMC will be assisting in the co-ordination of these efforts to ensure a consistent approach to natural heritage protection along the entire moraine and to integrate a larger landscape scale vision of the Oak Ridges Moraine with natural heritage lands off the ORM. The TRCA has been conducting work across its regional jurisdiction to ensure that vital connections and linkages from the moraine to the Lake Ontario waterfront are maintained or enhanced. Provincial Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) The ORMCP forms an additional foundation for the Headwaters Management Plan with some of the key objectives and requirements being incorporated. The purpose of the Provincial Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) is to provide land use and resource management planning direction to ensure the protection of the ecological and hydrological integrity of the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM). The ORMCP was approved and filed as a Minister's Regulation (0. Reg. 140/02) on April 22, 2002. This followed the assent of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act in December 2001. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June 2003 1I 058 The Vision for the Oak Ridges Moraine The Ontario government's vision for the Oak Ridges Moraine is that of "a continuous band of green roiling hills that provides form and structure to south-central Ontario, while protecting the ecological and hydrological features and functions that support the health and well-being of the region's residents and ecosystems". The Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act, 2001 established the following objectives for the ORMCP. Protecting the ecological and hydrological integrity of the Oak Ridges Moraine Area; Ensuring that only land and resource uses that maintain, improve or restore the ecological and hydrological functions of the Oak Ridges Moraine Area are permitted; Maintaining, improving or restoring all the elements that contribute to the ecological and hydrological functions of the Oak Ridges Moraine Area, including the quality and quantity of its water and its other resources; Ensuring that the Oak Ridges Moraine Area is maintained as a continuous natural landform and environment for the benefit of present and future generations; Providing for land and resource uses and development that are compatible with the other objectives of the Plan; Providing for continued development within existing urban settlement areas and recognizing existing rural settlements; Providing for a continuous recreational trail through the Oak Ridges Moraine Area that is accessible to all including persons with disabilities; and Providing for other public recreational access to the Oak Ridges Moraine Area; and Any other prescribed objectives. Land Use Designations The Plan divided the Moraine into four land use designations: Natural Core Areas (38% of the Moraine), Natural Linkage Areas (24% of the Moraine), Countryside Areas (30% of the Moraine) and Settlement Areas (8% of the Moraine). Natural Core Areas protect those lands with the greatest concentrations of key natural heritage 'features which are critical to maintaining the integrity of the Moraine as a whole. Only existing uses and very restricted new resource management, agricultural, Iow intensity recreational, home businesses, transportation and utility uses are allowed in these areas. Natural Linkage Areas protect critical natural and open space linkages between the Natural Core Areas and along rivers and streams. The only uses that are allowed are those allowed in Natural Core Areas, plus some aggregate resource operations. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 12 Countryside Areas provide an agricultural and rural transition and buffer between the Natural Core Areas and Natural Linkage Areas and the urbanized Settlement Areas. Prime agricultural areas as well as natural features are protected. Most of the uses typically allowed in agricultural and other rural areas are allowed here. Within the Countryside Areas, the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Use Designation Map also identifies and delineates Rural Settlements. These are existing hamlets or similar small, general long established communities, that are identified in official plans. Policies on creating and developing new lots in Natural Core Areas, Natural Linkage Areas, and Countryside Areas are very restrictive. Settlement Areas reflect a range of existing communities planned by municipalities to reflect community needs and values. Urban uses and development as set out in municipal official plans are allowed. TRCA AND CONSERVATION LANDS The goal of TRCA in managing conservation lands is: "To ensure the environmental stewardship of Authority lands and to continue to bring into ownership additional conservation and hazard lands essential for achieving a healthy regional environment and sustainable communities" (Business Plan of the TRCA 2002-2006) Currently, TRCA lands are managed under the following categories: · Conservation Parks · Field Centres · Resource Management Tracts and other TRCA Lands · Management Agreements · Special Agreements and Rentals 1.2 LOCATION, SITE DESCRIPTION AND LAND USES This section summarizes part of the information provided in the Management Plan Background Report, which can be obtained from TRCA upon request. A total of seven TRCA properties were included in the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan. The properties and their size are as follows: · Goodwood Resource Management Tract 110 hectares · Secord Forest and Wildlife Area 93 hectares Duffins Creek Headwaters [v'ianagement Pian for TRCA Properties Juns 2003 13 WOODS 060 LEGEND ~ Lake Ontario Shoreline /~?~.' Municipal Boundary ~/Watercourse ~ OHF Pronertv Managed byTRCA ~ TRCA Property r--] Watershed Boundary 0 I 2 3 Kia:metem DUFFINS HEADWATERS r~ANAGEMENT PL&N FOR TRCA PROPERTIES Map,_, ! ;- DUFFtNS CREEK WATERSHED site Locations- Watershed Context ¢,.~,,,~,~,~,~.~,.-~ ~._.onserva~on 06.t The TRCA holds rental agreements for four of the eight houses located on the properties, as well as leases for agricultural uses, ski facilities, and filming. In addition, the Authority holds two licenced agreements with the Dagmar Ski Resort and the Durham District School Board. t' .3 STUDY PROCESS Planning efforts have shown that community and interest groups have grown more concerned with the impact of land use change on the remaining natural landscapes within the Greater Toronto Area. At the same time, user groups, businesses, and municipalities have expressed a growing interest in using public lands for a variety of outdoor recreation, ecological restoration, and other uses. The provision of public uses on TRCA owned land must consider economic factors, the recreational needs of the community, and ensure the natural landscape is protected and properly managed. The TRCA initiated the preparation of a comprehensive management plan for TRCA properties located in the Duffins Creek headwaters in the fall of 1999. At meeting #9/99 held on September 24, 1999, the TRCA approved the process for preparing a management plan for the seven Duffins Creek headwater properties, .Besolut on #A246/99: "THAT staff be directed to proceed with the development of a Glen Major Complex Management Plan; AND FURTHER THA T staff be directed to establish an Advisory Committee, which would include members of the pubfic, interested community groups, the Township of Uxbfidge, Town of Pickering, and Durham Region to assist with the development of the plan and facilitate the opportunity for pubfic input." The plan was undertaken in five phases with phases one through four focussing on project start- up, background reports, general management zone development and detailed plan and recommendation development. The final phase included plan integration, finalization and approval. Some of the key components of each phase included: Phase 1 Study Area Background Report with the following information: · a review of existing plans and studies · a summary of existing and proposed land use, municipal services, road classifications and property ownership · a description of the current public uses and types of recreation activities occurring on the properties and within the surrounding communities · a description of the natural and cultural heritage, recreation and education resources Advisory Committee Establishment Development of Project Terms of Reference Duffins Creek Headwaters l~anagement Pian for TRCA Properties June, 2003 15 Phase Phase Development of Plan Vis~on Public information Sessions to Introduce Project Questionnaire development and repor[s Development of General Management Zones Forest Management Workshop with Advisory Committee Public Meeting to present Study Vision, Goal, Objectives and Management Zones Management Zone Refinement 062 Phase 4 Management Zone Workshop with Advisory Committee Development of Detailed Management Zone Recommendations Development of Concept Plans for Goodwood Secord and Clubine Properties Development of Trail Plan for Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest. Public Meeting to present Plans and Recommendations Phase 5 Integrate Plan with Duffins Creek Watershed Strategy Final Public Meeting to Present Integrated Plan Plan Review with Other Government Agencies Advisory Committee Endorsement of Plan TRCA Approval of Management Plan 1.4 THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE Representatives from the following agencies and community groups were invited to participate on the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan Advisory Committee: Municipal Councillors: · Durham Region, City of Pickering, Township of Uxbridge : Community Groups and Associations: · Federation of Ontario Naturalists · Hike Ontario · Oak Ridges Trail Association · Uxbridge Cycling Association · International Mountain Biking Association (Ontario Chapter) · Uxbridge Horse Riders Association · Green Door Alliance · Uxbridge Naturally Uxbridge Conservation Association · Durham Conservation Association Duffins Creek Headwaters IVianagement Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 16 O63 Pickering Rural Association Trans Canada Trial Committee Other Stakeholders: Ontario Heritage Foundation Walker Property Secord Property Glen Major Angling Club · Goodwood Farms Dagmar Ski Resort Provincial Agencies - Staff: Ministry of Natural Resources, Aurora District Ministry of Citizenship, Culture & Tourism Municipal Agencies and Other - Staff · Durham Region Police · Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority · Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority The Advisory Committee assisted TRCA staffto finalize the project Terms of Reference, determine the management zones and management recommendations. The Committee also provided technical input and assisted with the public consultation program regarding the Management Plan. In summary, the Advisory Committee was responsible for the following major functions: Provide technical expertise, monitoring information and advice to the TRCAthroughout the development of the Management Plan; Ensure that appropriate staff and members at their respective municipalities/agencies/ associations are adequately informed throughout the process; Provide comment and input to suggestions brought to the Advisory Committee; Assist in the identification of current outstanding issues and make suggestions as to appropriate ways of resolving them; Assist the TRCA in presentations and public forums, where appropriate; Assist the TRCA with the implementation and maintenance of the management plan. This study has been the result of over two years work and commitment by this dedicated committee and TRCA staff. The Advisory Committee provided direction for the Management Zones, Concept Plans, Trail Plan and Recommendations contained in this plan. Copies of the minutes for the Advisory Committee meetings have been compiled and can be obtained from TRCA upon request. In addition, the Forest Management Workshop Summary, which was held at the request of the Advisory Committee, can be found in Appendix 5. The workshop was an important component of determining the appropriate TRCA forest management recommendations. 1.5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION At the outset of the plan it was agreed that implementation, public use and enjoyment of TRCA's Duffins Creek Headwater properties will be important to the community and consequently, they Duffins Creek Headwaters IVianagement Pian for TRCA Properties June, 2003 17 064 must have a meaningful way to provide input to the planning process. To facilitate a wide range of opportunities for input, many techniques were used to generate a high levef of awareness and public comment. The public consultation program included: meetings with interested organizations and groups in the community; information sessions, newsletters, questionnaires and mailings to the community' to identify a broad range of potential needs and opportunities for the sites: public meetings to present the background information, plan vision, proposed management zones, concept plans, trail plan and management recommendations. In general, the public response to the proposed management plan was very favourable. They found the vision, goal, objectives and management principles of the plan to be completely appropriate. The public preference was to keep as much of the planning area as natural as possible with the majority of response indicating that the lands should be managed with a balanced approach between appropriate public use and environmental protection and restoration. Finally, the public indicated that any alterations to the approved Management Plan must be subject to a public process. In all there was a total of six different questionnaire distributions, which occurred at public meetings and by Committee member distribution. Some highlights of the results included: 145 Questionnaires completed 65% indicated Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest as their destination of choice 36% choose walking and hiking as their most enjoyable recreational activity, 34% biking,12% cross-country skiing, 18% other Natural Areas and Beautiful Vistas were a priority "People visit these properties to get close to nature and improve their well being." Trail users were looking for improved access, removal of barriers, a series of lookouts, nature interpretation, a clean and green environment A detailed summary of public questionnaires and comments have been compiled and are part of Appendix A, which is available upon request. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 18 ;RIDGE SECORD CLUBINE WALKER WOODS LEGEND ,Oak Ridges Moraine Lake Ontario Shoreline Watercoume ~OHF Prom~rtv ~ Managed by TRCA ~ "I'RCA Property ~ Watershed Boundary I 0 I 2 KIk~meters DUFFINS HF__ADWATERS MANAGEMENT FOR TRCA PROPERTIES Map 2- DUFFINS CREEK WATERSHED Duffins Creek Headwaters Conte= ~o~.~.~**,.¢;*~ UXI WALleR + WOODS LEGEND !//~ Lake Ontario Shoreline ~/.~.? Municipal Boundary i~ Roads ~ OHF Property Managed by TRCA ~ TRCA Property Rental Property ~ Commercial Rental ~ Farm Rental ~ House Rental F'I Watershed Boundary 0 I 2 Klk~meters DUFFINS HEADWATERS MANAGEMENT PLAK TRCA PROPERTIES FOR Mia~ 3 - DUFFINS CREEK WATERSHED Rentals/Leases and Agreements CLUBINEi~i LEGEND J~ Lake Ontario Shoreline l~F~ Municipal Boundary i~ Roads I//~ Watercourse ~ OHF ProDertv Managed' byTRCA ~ TRCA Property Interior Forest Fomst Cover ~,,'i 100m Interior ~ Watershed Boundary 1 0 1 2 ICdometms DUFFINS HEADWATERS i MANAGEMENT ;3~ ~ L--¢"~ FOR TRCA PROPERTIES Map 4- DUFFINS CREEK WATERSHED interior Forest ~onsert/a[~o~ ! WALKER WOODS CLUBINE LEGEND Roads Boundary ~ OHF Property Managed by-TRCA ~~ TRCA Property Valley and Stream Corridor [----J Watershed Boundary DUFFINS HE-ADWATERS MANAGEMENT =LA.kr FOR TRCA PROPERTIES Map 5 - DUFFINS CREEK WATERSHED A.r=.~as~ of Sp~.~a,~='" ~ D~signatio~ for Protection in the Planning Aroa ~onservar~on LEGEND !~ Oak Ridges Moraine /.~ Municipal Boundary ~ Watercourse ~ OHF Prooertv Managed by TRCA ~ 'I'RCA Property ORM Landuse Designation i?~i~? Natuml Core Ama r,;;~,;!:~ Natural Linkage Area Countryside Area ' Rural Settlement ~;~: Settlement Ama ~ Watershed Boundary 0 1 2 Kilemetem DUFFINS HEADWATERS ~NAGEMENT PLAN FOR TRCA PROPERTIES Map 6- DUFFINS CREEK WATERSHED ORM Landuse Designations ~¢",~.,,.~.~,o~;~ ' ~onservauon i CHAPTER TWO V SION GOAL, OBJECTIVES, AND PRINCIPLES 0 7 0 2.~ The Vision: As part of the larger Duffins Creek Watershed, it is integral that the vision, goal, objectives and principles of this Management Plan adhere to and are integrated with the Vision of the Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek. The Watershed Plan vision reads as follows: VISION FOR THE DUFFINS CREEK AND CARRUTHERS CREEK WATERSHEDS The Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek will be healthy, safe, dynamic and sustainable watersheds that continue to have clean and safe water. These watersheds will have functioning wetlands and be diverse with self-sustaining communities of native plants, fish and wildlife, where natural and human heritage features are protected and valued. Residents will recognize the watersheds as essential community resources that enhance their quality of life. All stakeholders will participate in the stewardship of the watersheds, and opportunities for growth and development will recognize the vision and the importance of protecting and enhancing this priceless legacy. Working within this watershed framework, the vision for the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan reflects the essence of conservation planning values and sets a definite direction for the future management of TRCA headwater properties. The Management Plan Vision was also developed to be consistent with the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. A VISION FOR TRCA PROPERTIES IN THE DUFFINS CREEK HEADWATERS The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority properties in the Duff/ns Creek Headwaters, which contain d/verse ecosystems, abundant wildlife and spectacular vistas, wi1/become a mode/for private and public land stewardship. The various TRCA properties wi//be integrated and expanded through donations, land purchases, conservation easements and planning incentives to protect, conserve and improve ecological integrity. The properties will be carefully managed and monitored to ensure sustainabi/ity and adherence to conservation principles. Appropriate public use and environmental awareness wi//be promoted and managed with a balanced approach. Duff/ns Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TFICA Properties June, 2003 2~ The primary focus of the vision centres on the protection and appreciation of the Duffins Creek headwater ecosystem. The vision is based on the premise that health of the natural system is dependent on the integrity and diversity of their habitats and the connectivity between them. Where appropriate public use and interpretation of natural and cultural heritage features will be provided. 2.2 PLAN GOAL, OBJECTIVES AND MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES The Management Plan Vision establishes a framework for a goal and a series of objectives and management principles, that are consistent with the Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek. The Management Plan goal, objectives and principles were also developed to be consistent with and adhere to the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. Goal: To.protect, conserve and manage the TRCA headwater properties within an ecosystem framework, and in consultation with the community, ensuring watershed health, public enjoyment and environmental sustainability. Objectives: · Natural Heritage - To protect, restore and regenerate the natural ecosystem by ensuring the health and diversity of native species, habitats, landscapes and ecological processes. Aisc, maximizing linkages and connectivity of the natural heritage features to one another and to adjacent areas; · Cultural Heritage - To identify, protect and conserve the cultural heritage features for their inherent value and depiction of the long-term human use and occupancy of the area; · Land Use - To ensure protection of the ecological integrity and cultural values of the land through innovative planning, management and appropriate conservation, recreation and other land uses; Management- To manage the TRCA headwater properties in a manner that will ensure the achievement of all objectives and to implement Management Plan recommendations, while providing for ongoing public involvement in the management process;; Education ~ To promote knowledge and understanding of the natural and cultural values of the land and water, their protection and management requirements, as well 'as their significance, sensitivities and interrelationships; Stewardship - To promote and facilitate the ongoing public involvement towards a partnership that will foster sustainable living, and will accomplish watershed management objectives, as well as implement Management Plan recommendations; Public Use - To provide opportunities for appropriate, accessible public uses, which are consistent with all other objectives. Management Principles · Protect, conserve and regenerate the ecological integrity of the headwater properties. · Ensure natural and cultural heritage sustainability utilizing a cost effective approach. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 22 072 Promote and monitor the use and enjoyment of the land, ensuring minimal impact to the natural environment by striving fOr a balance between conservation and appropriate outdoor recreation. Develop stakeholder awareness, promote cooperation and form partnerships that will enhance stewardship and provide protection of the lands. Foster community involvement and environmental stewardship that utilizes an integrated approach to planning and implementation strategies. Recognize, integrate, promote and enhance linkages between the Conservation properties, the Duffins Creek watershed, the Oak Ridges Moraine and other natural and cultural features. Develop and implement programs and partnerships that protect and enhance the form, features and functions of the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM), i.e., groundwater, natural heritage, land securement, headwater protection and policy framework. Utilize flexible management approaches and continually evaluate management options to ensure the operations and existing infrastructure are both effective and appropriate. Restore and naturalize disturbed areas on TRCA property. Utilize best erosion management practices where appropriate. Utilize best forest management practices where appropriate. Expand public land holdings through acquisition, conservation easements, donations and planning incentives. Effectively manage public use safety issues. Increase revenues with programs and services where sustainable. Duffins Creek Headwaters IVianagement Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 23 O73 CHAPTER THREE MANAGEMENT ZONES The natural and cultural heritage information, which was compiled for the Management Plan Phase 1 Reference Document formed the basis for determining the management zones and their requirements (Figure 1). The seven zones ( Nature Reserve, Natural Environment, Primary Restoration, Agricultural Reserve, Public Use Recreation, Public Use Education and Public Use Lease ) are distinguished by their different ecological protection, management needs, and acceptable levels of recreational use. These zones and definitions are based on the Ontario Provincial Parks - Planning and Management Policies. However, the recommended conservation land management zoning categories and policies have been modified to more closely address the requirements of these headwater properties. Given the current pressures of urbanization that are affecting the condition of natural cover throughout the TRCA's jurisdiction, it is paramount to approach the management of any natural area in a way that addresses that particular site in the larger regional context. By implementing the following system of management zones, it is hoped that a consistently effective and cautious method will steer natural habitat in the Toronto region towards a condition that possesses a high degree of resilience. 3.1 MANAGEMENT ZONE DEFINITIONS The seven management zones for the TRCA properties in the Duffins Creek Headwaters are defined as follows: Nature Reserve: Natural Environment: Primary Restoration: Agricultural Reserve: Public Use Recreation: Public Use Education: Public Use Lease: Existing natural cover supporting Species of Concern or Vegetation Communities of Concern, and interior habitat portions which are part of the TRCA targeted natural system. Existing and targeted natural cover within the targeted natural system which does not currently meet the criteria of the Nature Reserve Zone. Lands designated for active restoration to achieve the full potential of the TRCA targeted natural system. Primary restoration will also occur within a forest plantation area that has been classified as a Nature Reserve, with such areas identified as P.R. in Nature Reserve on the Management Zone Maps. Areas which have existing or potential for agricultural uses, including crops or nursery operations. Areas with existing or potential recreational and educational uses, facilities, or services. Areas with existing lease agreements or appropriate infrastructure Areas with existing lease agreements that should be renewed or areas where potential for lease opportunities exist. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan fOr TRCA Properties June, 2003 24 3.2 DETERMINING THE MANAGEMENT ZONES The TRCA properties presented an excellent opportunity to determine the manaaement zones based on TRCA's Natural Heritage Strategy as discussed in Chapter 1. In order ~'o apply the appropriate management zone to a particular area, TRCA staff reviewed, inventoried, analyzed and ranked the features and functions for all the properties on a GIS system. The information was presented to the Advisory Committee, who endorsed the process and Management Zone designations. This same information was also presented to the public on a number of occasions, as outlined in Chapter 1, with general acceptance. The critical information that was analyzed and ranked for the Nature Reserve, Natural Environment, Agricultural Reserve and Public Use zones included: · interior habitat; · vegetation communities; · species of concern; · Environmentally Significant Areas (ESA); · Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI); · classified wetlands; · existing public use areas; · lease areas; and · existing infrastructure. The Restoration Zones were established through an analysis at the landscape level using potential restoration areas to determine possible additions to the size and shape of interior habitat. In addition, any area or infrastructure that was determined to be discontinued or in close proximity to the existing interior habitat, was considered a candidate for potential restoration. In addition, all of the plantations were classified as Primary Restoration including the ones in the Nature Reserve (i.e., P.R. in Nature Reserve). The results of this analysis were used to determine the Management Zones as shown on Maps 7a, 7b and 7c, with the boundaries being approximate only. The Management Zones relate to features such as the edges of woodlots, fields, hedgerows, buildings, roads and utilities. 3.3 PERMITTED RESOURCE USES IN MANAGEMENT ZONES Each management zone has an acceptable level of outdoor recreation, education, and other resource uses. Specific permitted intensity of uses are detailed in Figure 1. The list provides examples of the types of uses permitted and is not an all inclusive list. There will be no public motorized vehicles allowed in any zone, or on TRCA land where there is no designated vehicular access, road or parking area. Any proposal for a particular resource use on TRCA land must be in keeping with the provisions outlined in the TRCA's Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program and the Strategy for Public Use of Conservation Authority Lands. Any proposal for a particular resource use on Ontario Heritage Foundation land would require their approval. 074 5uffins Creek Headwaters ~anagemer~? P~ar:: fo," TRC~..~rope~ies June, 2003 25 075 UXBRIDGE SECORD LEGEND [] Existing Parking ~ Proposed Parking -~ Existing Access /~/Municipal Boundary ~ Building ~ Major Road ~ Ponds /~/Watercourse Management Zones ~ Nature Reserve ~ P.R. in Nature Reserve Primary Restoration Natural Environment Public Use - lease !?~ Public Use - recreation r-'-i Watemhed Boundary MANAGEMENT PLAN l TF:{CA PROPEF~TIES ON~ h~a~ 78- GOODWOOD-SECOR. D-CLUB~NE DUFFINS CREEK HEADWATER~ Management Zones :~ onserva uon WALKER WOODS O76 UXBRIDGE GLEN LEGEND Municipal Boundary Existing Parldng Proposed Parking Existing Aocoss Proposed Access Rail Line Major Road Watercourse Building Watershed Boundary ~ TRCA Property ~ OHF ProDertv ;-7=~ Manag.ed_ byTRCA Management Zones ~! Nature Reserve ~' P.R. in Nature Reserve Primary Restomfion Natural Environment . Public Use - lease Public Use - recreation 1000 0 1000 2000 3000 Me~er~ DUFFINS HEADWATERS ~NAGF__MENT PL&N FOR TRCA PROPERTIES Map 7b - WALKER WOODS - TIMBER BROTHERS -GLEN MAJOR Management Zones \ \ \ PICKERING ~~ LEGEND [] Existing Parking ~!,~ Restricted Access [~ TRCA Prope~ lBuilding ~ Major Road ~ Watercourse Management Zones ~ Na~Jre Reserve ~ P.R. in Nature Reserve Primary Restoration Natural Environment Agricultural Reserve I~ Public Use - educa~on ~?i Public Use - lease Public Use - recreation ~ Watershed Boundary DUFFIN$ H=_~DWATERS FOR TRCA PROPERTIESi Map 7c -, C~REMONT Management Zones ~¢,~._. onserva uon Figure 1: Permitted Resource Uses I Management Zone 1 Permittedintensity of Uses I Resource Uses Nature Reserve i None to Low Intensity. Fish, wildlife and forest management, local j and inter-regional trails, nature t viewing/interpretation, leashed dog walking,research, education and photography. Where possible, limit the extent of intrusion into this zone and if intrusion can not be avoided, minimize the impact to interior habitat. !Natural Low Intensity. Fish, wildlife and forest management, local Environment and inter-regional trails including walking, This zone includes hiking, cycling, leashed dog walking, areas that have the horseback riding cross-country skiing, 3otential of authorized public access points and ecological associated Iow impact comfort stations. succession and restoration. Primary Restoration None to Low Intensity. Fish, wildlife and forest management, local This Zone will be and inter-regional trails, nature allowed to evolve into viewing/interpretation, research, education, Nature Reserve or photography, and cross-country skiing, Natural Environment. cycling, horseback riding, leashed dog walking. Agricultural Low to Moderate Intensity. Fish, wildlife and forest management, Reserve crops, horticultural nursery operations, and associated buildings. Public Use Low, Moderate and High Fish, wildlife and forest management, local Recreation Intensity. and inter-regional trails, nature viewing/interpretation, research, cycling, photography, and cross-country skiing, Nature or Stewardship Centre, fishing opportunities, picnic area, group camping facilities, nature retreat. Public Use Low, Moderate and High Fish, wildlife and forest management, Education Intensity. Outdoor Education Centre, local trails, nature viewing/interpretation, research, cross-country skiing and photography. Public Use Lease Low, Moderate and High To be considered a private area subject to Intensity. specific lease agreements. TRCA will monitor area and conduct appropriate resource management activities, such as fish, wildlife and forest management activities. O75 ,June, _00o 26 076 CHAPTER FOUR GENERAL MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS The health of the natura! system in any region ultimately depends on the total quantity of land that has natural cover. Stresses on our natural heritage result from the reduction of natural cover, which has occurred because of the ever increasing urbanization in the region. As natural cover is lost the ability of the land to support bio-diversity diminishes, and the quality of life for the human population deteriorates. The headwater properties provide some of the highest functioning ecological units within the TRCA jurisdiction. The forested land of Walker Woods and Glen Major hold the largest nodes of forest interior habitat in the TRCA jurisdiction. The forest size and shape attributes provide interior habitat conditions that exceed 100 metres in many areas, and in some cases in excess of 800 metres from the edge. The General Management Recommendations are intended to guide the actions of TRCA, its partners and the Duffins Creek headwater stakeholders to ensure that the properties will remain a healthy and vital part of the Duffins Creek Watershed. The recommendations have been separated into Natural Heritage; Human Heritage; Public Use (Outdoor Recreation and Education) and Surrounding Land Use. They are consistent with the provisions outlined in the Authority's Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program, the Strategy for Public Use of Conservation Authority Lands, as well as the watershed management objectives outlined in A Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek.. 4.1 NATURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT These recommendations focus on the valley and stream corridors, aquatic systems and terrestrial habitats. All management activities will be designed and implemented in compliance with federal and provincial legislation such as the Migratory Birds Conservation Act, Fisheries Act, Conservation Authorities Act, Planning Act, Lakes and Rivers Improvement Act, and Ontario Water Resources Act. Valley and Stream Corridors · Manage the valley and stream corridor areas according to the criteria set forth in the Authority's Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program (1994). · Ecological linkages associated with the valley corridors should be protected and restored. Aquatic Ecosystem and Habitats General · The aquatic system will be managed to achieve a fully functioning clean and healthy creek system, It will also be managed in accordance with the Duffins Creek Fish Management Plan. Protect groundwater recharge and discharge areas. · Septic systems in and adjacent to the properties will be monitored by TRCA staff in cooperation with the local health unit and the Ministry of the Environment. Surface and groundwater impacts due to agricultural activities will be monitored. " Recreational activities that,degrade water quality and aquatic habitat will be prohibited. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties 33 Protect, enhance, or restore watercourses, aquatic habitat, riparian zones, and wetlands as determined through inventory and monitoring. Use native species in all restoration activities. Wetiands inventory the presence of wetlands and identify species present. Prohibit activities that will reduce the size or function of the wetland areas. Where inventory and monitoring indicate, undertake specific enhancement or restoration activities. · Use only native species for restoration activities. · Protect, establish, or otherwise manage vegetation to facilitate all the life stages of fish, other aquatic organisms and wildlife populations. · Invasive exotic plant species will be managed according to TRCA policies. Fish Protect and maintain fish habitat. Protect fish populations and other desired aquatic organisms through proper timing of management activities. Encourage conservation practices such as catch and release and the use of single barbless hooks. Anglers should reduce their catch and possession limits for trout. Mitigate in-stream barriers to provide passage for fish. Monitor aquatic habitat species regularly as part of TRCA's Regional Watershed Monitoring Program. No baitfish harvest is allowed on the properties. Terrestrial Habitats Terrestrial habitats includes vegetation communities, as well as the wildlife which inhabit these areas. The objective of vegetation management is to ensure the on-going health of native plant communities, and where necessary restore the vegetation to as close to a natural system as possible. Vegetation (Flora) · Priority will be given to ensuring that the vegetation communities are protected and restored where required. - Emphasis will be placed on encouraging the vegetation of the area to evolve naturally over time through succession. · Vegetation will be be protected from further degradation resulting from the negative impacts of human activities. Only native species, suited to the local site conditions and complementary to the existing vegetation cover, will be considered for restoration activity. Absent native species, which are locally indigenous may be reintroduced. Invasive exotic plant species will be managed according to TRCA policies. Insects and diseases that attack the vegetation should be considered a natural process, and will not be controlled, except in the instance where they threaten the integrity of the 077 Duffins Creek Headwaters lVianagement Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 34 O73 Forest vegetation community. Where control of infestations is required, it will be directed narrowly to the specific problem. Biological, rather than chemical control should be used wherever feasible. A bacterial spray program may be considered to control Gypsy Moth in climax forest communities, but only where vegetation is threatened over the long term. Management A healthy forest is one that is sound and vigorous. Healthy forests exhibit greater species and structural diversity, making them more resilient to the impacts of disease, invasive species and other catastrophic events (ie. Fire and wind damage). Protect, restore and enhance the forests within an ecosystem context, and promote forest sustainability in perpetuity. All forests will be managed as per an approved TRCA Forest Management Plan. Extend and manage the forest cover to improve water conservation; control erosion and sedimentation; provide aquatic and terrestrial habitat; and to provide opportunities for safe education and recreation. Maintain the natural diversity of flora and fauna in the forest and restore biodiversity within the natural range of variation that is characteristic of the region. Protect representative, unique, and fragile vegetative communities. Ensure that operational practices are based on sound forestry principles and current best management practices and that management activities are integrated and compatible with other Authority programs and policies and supportive of other public agency resource management objectives (ie. OMNR, MOE). Conduct all activities with respect for the forest environment and maintain and protect the composition, structure and function of the forest ecosystem. Manage forests to establish and maintain a healthy and diverse forest cover while striving for a sustainable balance between program costs and program revenues. Evaluate management potential of forest compartments considering all objectives and the compartment features before considering the level of active management. Manage for a variety of habitat types. Schedule operations considering seasonal impact on the site. Schedule operations to consider impacts on wildlife. Monitor forest compartments for signs of disease, an insect outbreak and to assess condition and vigour. Assess, improve and establish roads and stream crossings when and where required. Plan operations and design roads such that there is minimal damage to the remaining trees, regeneration, stream crossings and erosion prone areas. Use of the appropriate management practices for the forest type and site conditions. Plan to manage for biodiversity and to promote the retention of old growth compartment features. Manage for a mixture of tree species and age-classes within woodlots where appropriate. Implement the conversion of plantations to mixed species woodlots. Implement improvement and sanitation cuts to promote forest health and vigour. Monitor and inventory forest compartments after management operations. Duffins Creek Headwaters IVtanagement Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 35 Establish reforestation to increase forested area to aid in water retention. Establish riparian plantings to establish vegetated stream buffers. Identify areas of natural succession. Retain a diversity of tree species and age-classes to promote a variety of wildlife lqabitats. Reforest large blocks of land to create more interior forest habitat. Reforest to create linkages between woodlots. Monitor forest compartments for signs of wildlife. Plan forest operations to avoid sensitive seasons for wildlife use. Construct brush piles in conjunction with fOrest managementoper~t, lon~.~' ~ Retain mast producing trees and shrubs and potential den trees. Retain and manage for old growth features. Allow for downed, woody material and debris to accumulate on the forest floor. Use management techniques to create and maintain habitat. Retain natural open space. Recommended Silvicultural Systems Utilize the all-aged selection system whereby individual trees or small groups of trees may be removed. The selection system encourages improved stand vigour and regeneration through the gradual opening of the canopy while maintaining the integrity of the stand. Tree selection is based on improving stand vigour, age-class distribution and species diversity. This system can be used to recreate the effects of natural disturbances in a controlled manner, thereby enhancing biodiversity within the forest landscape through maintaining a mixed representation of early, mid and late successional stages. Plantation management is primarily directed toward stand conversion - the process of changing the composition of the cover from a coniferous monoculture to a mixed deciduous- coniferous stand. In managing plantations, the TRCA will employ selection row thinning or patch cutting. Both thinning techniques will decrease the overall stand density, provide space for other species in which to establish, and stimulate the residual stand to grow more vigorously. Thinning assists to prevent stagnation of the forest cover, improve snow pack capture and provide increased opportunities for biodiversity. Wildlife (Fauna) · Management activities of terrestrial animal life to ensure the healthful perpetuation and diversity of native species will be permitted. The healthy perpetuation and diversity of native species will be encouraged. Wildlife populations will be protected from human disturbance through controlled and restricted public access, proper timing of management activities, and buffering between land uses. Dogs must be kept on leashes, Habitat will be protected, maintained, and enhanced to provide shelter, travel corridors, and foraging areas for wildlife. Non-native animal species will not be deliberately introduced. O79 Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Piar~ for TRCA Properties June, 2003 36 Lighting that interferes with wildlife behaviour will not be permitted. Rare Species or Species of Concern will be monitored. Specific protection or recovery programs to ensure their continued presence may be undertaken as necessary. Public huntin9 and trappin9 will not be permitted. 4.2 HUMAN HERITAGE MANAGEMENT The Oak Ridges Moraine environment has provided a variety of resources necessary for human settlement during the past 11,000 years. An ample water supply in the form of ponds and stream corridors of the Duffins Creek watershed attracted abundant flora and fauna. In turn, these a~racted early nomadic Aboriginal groups as well as later year-round agricultural villages. Within the past two centuries, European settlers were drawn to the lands for agricultural purposes, and to the extensive forests for lumber resources. Archaeological Resource Management · All archaeological sites (known and unknown) on the TRCA properties are important cultural resources which must be preserved, either by avoidance or through excavation subject to Authority procedure when land use modification may occur. · All land use modifications on TRCA properties must be preceded by an archaeological investigation and assessment with notification to appropriate agencies. The assessment will be conducted by TRCA staff. Historic Resource Management Historic resources (heritage structures built by Euro-Canadians) will be managed subject to the following recommendations: · Heritage sites will be recognized as important cultural resources. · Heritage sites and their relationship with the environment will be identified and documented. · Heritage sites will be protected and conserved. · Efforts to raise awareness of the value that heritage sites contribute to recreational and environmental resources will be undertaken. Wherever possible, when the Primary Restoration Zone includes historic resources, heritage themes will be included in the restoration plan. 4.3 PUBLIC USE (Outdoor Recreation and Education) Recreation and educational facilities will be managed or developed according to the following recommendations: · All public use development or proposed material used must to the maximum extent possible, reflect the ecological function of the specific area. · Public use proposals will be reviewed in accordance with the municipal Official Plans and Bylaws. · Planning for any future public use will involve public consultation and environmental evaluation through the screening process outlined in the Authority's Strategy for Public Use of Conservation Authority Lands (1995). · Wherever possible, native ~)egetation will be planted as a buffer between the public use and natural areas. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 37 Protection, restoration, and enhancement of natural resources will be a part of all public use plans. Public uses will focus on outdoor education and recreation. Public use proposals must address risks to flooding and erosion, as outlined in the Authority's Valiey and Stream Corridor Management Program (1994). Public use proposals will include stormwater management, erosion and sediment controls, and fencing in their designs. The lot grading and drainage patterns will be maintained to protect flora and fauna. Setbacks shall be established from natural area zones to prevent public uses from conflicting with the flora and fauna, wherever necessary. Public use proposals will consider the sensitivity of the natural areas prior to providing access to such areas. The planning and development of a trail system will be subject to the recommendations set forth in the Authority's Trail Planning Guidelines (1992) and the policies of the Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program (1994). Maximize public use and recreation opportunities by enhancing linkages to the ORM Trail, Trans Canada Trail and other public trail systems when the opportunity exists. Lighting that interferes with wildlife behavior must not be permitted. Dogs must be kept on leash. No public hunting or trapping is permitted on the TRCA properties. In the short term, existing infrastructure will be managed by the TRCA, subject to available funding. Where lands are leased, approved public uses, upgrades or replacement of the infrastructure will be the responsibility of the proponent/tenant unless other agreed upon terms and conditions are established with TRCA. Proposals for the public use zone should include new technologies relating to construction, grounds maintenance and water conservation, where possible to maintain the ecological integrity of the properties and demonstrate sustainable practices. 4.4 SURROUNDING LAND USE The previous management recommendations provide a framework for achieving environmental sustainability on the TRCA properties. In order to support a fully functioning regional natural heritage system it is important to look at issues and opportunities provided by the surrounding areas on a subwatershed and larger watershed level. The surrounding land uses of the Duffins Creek headwater properties have an influence on the ecological function of the natural heritage system and must be incorporated into the broader regional vision. The Advisory Committee realized this vision early on in the management planning process, and a group of dedicated members took the leadership to establish conservation easements on private land adjacent to the study area. This work has also manifested this following key recommendation of the plan. The successful implementation of initiatives aimed at achieving the Management Plan objectives will be directly determined by the ability to implement an effective, extensive, long- term stewardship program. The Duffins Headwaters Stewardship Program is aimed at involving private landowners, including owners of residential, agricultural and commercial properties in the protection and enhancement of the ecosystem of the TRCA lands. Duffins Creek Headwaters IVianagement Plan for TRCA Properties June~ 2003 38 \ ~LUBINE ,RiDGE SECORD ~GEND ~.~]'\~ Municipal Boundary ~ Watercourse :~ OHF PmDertv Managed by TRCA ~ TRCA Property ~ Conservation Easements r-"] Watershed Boundary 0 1 2 K~3meta~s DUFFINS HEADWATERS ~NAGBMENT PL&N FOR TRCA PROPERTIES '% Map 8 - DUFFINS CREEK WA'FERSHED Conservation F-asements Program are inscribed, would also help to strengthen the concept. This level of incentive is most appropriate for small-scale stewardship initiatives. 0 8 3 in-Kind Compensation Within this incentive program, restoration or erosion protection works would be undertaken on private lands, to the benefit of both the landowner, in return for long-term environmental enhancement. Examples include the erection of fencing to prohibit livestock access to the river, tree planting or bank stabilization. This incentive program would require landowners to enter into a legal agreement with the TRCA. Agreements would have to be drafted on a case-by-case basis for each potential site and the extent of stewardship requirements would be determined by the cost of the restoration works. Cash Incentives Under this type of program, cash incentives would be offered in compensation for easements, stewardship leases or management agreements. The criteria for determining participation in a cash incentive program, as well as the logistics of financing such a program, are the key issues to be addressed in the program development. A cash incentive program would require the landowner to enter into a legal agreement with the TRCA. Tax Rebates A tax rebate program would be aimed at achieving long-term agreements with private landowners, with an emphasis on attaining easements over natural lands to allow for ecological protection and restoration initiatives. This type of program would be concentrated primarily on larger tracts of land in private ownership, and would involve the execution of a legal agreement with predetermined conditions. The logistics of implementation would include the negotiation of the limits of the Stewardship Program Area, an assessment of the value of the property, the re-designation of the land use and the definition of the conditions of easement or future use. The logistical, administrative and legislative requirements for implementing each of the above options will require exploration once the basic approach to each program has been endorsed. Stewardship Program Coordinator The role of the Stewardship Program Coordinator will be critical towards the achievement of the Management Plan vision, goal and objectives. The program should commence immediately upon TRCA and Partner endorsement of the Management Plan. The responsibilities of this individual will include overseeing all aspects of the Program, including funding, promotion, management of the Stewardship Committee, assistance with the administration of agreements with landowners, maintenance of a database of participants and monitoring the success of the program. The program coordinator should also be the project manager for the implementation of the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan. This position would be classified as full time. 4.5 MANAGEMENT ZONE RECOMMENDATIONS Within the seven management zones, specific resource management activities are permitted. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plark for TRCA Properties June, 2003 4¸! 084 4.5,1 Nature Reserve Zone Resource management activities that are encouraged in the Natural Reserve Zone include environmental management projects that are designed to protect, enhance, or restore natural features, iandforms, species or habitats. This includes forest management, fish habitat improvement, and revegetation activities. All trails should be monitored to ensure that invasive species are not being spread throughout the area. The Nature Reserve Zone will support none to Iow intensity recreation and education uses. Recommended access points and permitted uses can be referenced in the plan. The Oak Ridges and Trans Canada trail will be permitted within this zone subject to detailed trail routing studies being undertaken and field checked to identify the most appropriate route with the least impact. Aisc, the same level of trail investigation work will be required to locate any proposed local trails within this zone. Protect all the primary natural areas and manage them for the continuation of natural processes. Protect and manage existing cultural heritage features and sites in association with the protection of natural areas; Cross-country skiing trails will be permitted within this zone on the approved and open trail system. Limited interpretive facilities, and scenic or wildlife viewing locations may be provided in selected locations. When feasible close out the designated leased lands from Nature Reserve lands. 4.5.2 Natural Environment Zone Resource management activities that are encouraged in the Natural Environment Zone include environmental management projects that are designed to protect, enhance, or restore natural features, landforms, species, or habitats. This includes forest management fish habitat improvement, and revegetation activities. All trails should be monitored to ensure that invasive species are not being spread throughout the area. The Natural Environment Zone will support Iow intensity public uses including nature education. Existing uses such as agricultural fields and properly sited local trails, may remain in the Zone during the transition period with the ultimate goal of land restoration and required trail relocation being achieved. Regional trails will be permitted within this zone subject to detailed trail routing studies being undertaken and field checked to identify the most appropriate route with the least impact. Aisc, the same level of trail investigation work will be required to locate any proposed local trails within this zone. 4.5.3 Primary Restoration Zone Resource management activities that are encouraged in the Primary Restoration Zone include environmental management projects that are designed to protect, enhance, or restore natural Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 42 085 features, iandforms, species or habitats. Through successful restoration activities, over time these areas are expected to evolve to a Natural Environment or Nature Reserve Zone. implement a vegetation management strategy primarily based upon natural regeneration of native species to create the necessary forest linkages and buffer lands over the Ionic term; Use managed succession sparingly to establish forest cover to create critical linkages and buffers in the short term; also, use managed succession where degraded lands inhibit naturalization; - consider methods of minimizing possible incompatibilities between residents and nearby naturalization initiatives; Maintain cultural landscape heritage values within a functioning forest ecosystem (i.e. retention of rural hedgerows, farmstead plantings; · In consultation with the tenants, modify leases to encourage environmentally positive changes. · Allow selective public use following environmental impact analysis; · Monitor for the presence of noxious weeds and if necessary remove in accordance to the municipality's Weed Control Bylaw and TRCA policy. · As sites are restored, specific areas may accommodate a Iow'level of public use. This would be determined through a site specific evaluation. 4.5.4 Agricultural Reserve Zone Resource management activities that are encouraged within an Agricultural Reserve Zone include environmental management projects that are designed to protect, enhance, or restore natural features, landforms, species, or habitats. This includes the control of topsoil loss through the implementation of sound soil management and drainage practices such as conservation tillage practices, windbreak establishment, crop rotation and grassed waterways. · Permitted land uses within the Agricultural Reserve Zone include crop production, horticultural nursery operations, and associated farm buildings. Crop production of Iow to moderate intensity will be permitted including: · hay, legumes, grains (grass, clover, soybeans, wheat, barley, oats, mixed grains); · orchards, vineyards, market garden vegetation crops (e.g., tomatoes, squash, pumpkins); and, · the propagation and culture of native trees, shrubs, herbaceous and aquatic plants for environmental regeneration purposes. · Agricultural crops such as nursery sod farming will not be permitted. · Aisc, the rearing and grazing of livestock or fowl for commercial purposes will not be permitted within this zone. · Cultivation and cropping should be limited to fields that are flat to gently rolling. · All agricultural practices should have regard for the sensitivity of permanently or seasonally wet areas and fragile organic soils. · Agricultural operations within this zone must emphasize integrated pest management (IPM) techniques for the control of undesirable vegetation and pests. · Organic farming operations will be encouraged. · Recreational and educational uses of Iow intensity may be permitted where the potential for damage to agricultural crops is minimal. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 43 4.5.5 Public Use Zones: Recreation, Education and Lease Resource management activities that are encouraged in '[he Public Use Zones include environmental management projects that are designed to protect, enhance, or restore natural features, landforms, species, or habitats. Ensure that there is a net environmental enhancement within the Public Use Zones when activities are developed. Encourage public use at the periphery in areas that can sustain the impact of development and have limited to no negative ecological or visual impacts on the adjacent lands.. Provide limited facilities and services to support trail and educational activities that will occur in adjacent zones. Ensure that all development occurs with approved site plans and development plans which address issues of visual impact, size and extent of parking and building facilities, neighbour impacts and planting requirements. Since the public use zones would be limited in terms of the number of visitors that they can accommodate, some spillover parking on nearby roads may occur. In order to avoid overcrowding of certain sites and conflicts within local residents, prohibition of street parking should be enforced by local municipalities. · TRCA will involve local municipalities in the design and detailed planning for trailheads and parking areas. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 44 087 CHAPTER F VE CONCEPT P NS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 5.1 GOODWOOD/SECORD/CLUBINE CONCEPT PLAN The Concept Plan for the Goodwood, Secord and Clubine properties was guided by the vision, goal and objectives set out in Chapter 2 of this document. Essentially, the concept involves the preservation of natural areas, linkages, cultural heritage features and scenic landscapes with a focus of outdoor recreational activities being provided at the Secord property. The concept can be described as enhanced passive recreation, environmental protection and stewardship. The realization of this concept will occur by fostering new partnerships with corporations or associations. All new partners will be required to follow the TRCA Living City Vision, Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek and this document. Refer to Map 9 for proposed site location details, with a separate detailed Trail Plan Map 10a also provided, Trail planning and development will only be permitted according to the recommendations provided in this report. The key elements of the general concept for the properties include: Goodwood Property · Public Parking for up to twenty cars · Hiking Trails including Oak Ridges and Regional Systems · Nature Viewing · Cross Country Skiing Secord Property · Public Parking for up to sixty cars · Hiking Trails including Oak Ridges and Regional Systems · Horseback Riding Trails Nature Viewing · Cross-Country Skiing · Existing Pet Cemetery · Two Building Rentals · Informal Picnic Area · Public Staging Area · Portable Toilets · Fish Hatchery · Fishing Opportunities and Public Fishing Membership · Demolish former triplex building · Decommission former Gatekeeper Residence Clubine Property · Public Parking for up to twenty cars · Hiking Trails including Oak Ridges and Regional Systems · Cross-Country Skiing Nature Viewing Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 45 088 > 0 0 CD °°°°°°°© o©!~, ooO~. ~ The concept plan protects and enhances the values of the property and maintains its ecological integrity, while providin9 for various recreational and public use opportunities. 5.2 CLAREMONT FIELD CENTRE CONCEPT Incorporating the TRCA Living City Vision, the Claremont Field Centre will be focussed on outdoor and conservation education, much as it has been since it opened in 1970. Groups will come to the centre with the goals of learning about the environment through both team building and community living experiences. School groups will participate in field activities that emphasize active hands-on learning connected to their curriculum. There will also be a continued partnership with the Durham District School Board for the purpose of providing outdoor education programs to Durham Board students. The concept plan supports the School Board's objective to provide a facility to accommodate both residential and day programs when the project becomes economically feasible. The only trails that will be permitted on this land include local ones which support the students and environmental . learning. Regional trails must be routed around the property with the exception of the Trans Canada Trail hiking portion, which is subject to TRCA environmental impact assessment, TRCA school use evaluation and Durham School Board agreement. Trail planning and construction will only be permitted according to the trail plan recommendations included in this report and associated with Map 10c. The only trail user. s that will be accommodated on this site include hikers and walkers. The Concept also incorporates the Agricultural Reserve Zone allowing the Strip Crop Demonstration Farm to continue. Crops such as corn, oat seeded down, hay, and fall wheat may be produced. All crops are to be fertilized annually in accordance with standard requirements for the crop being grown. Restrictions on this farmland include hunting, trapping, garbage dumping, firewood cutting, and tree removal. Cooperative stewardship and volunteer agreements with local residents and interest groups are also vigorously encouraged with this concept to establish natural area protection and conservation practices for private lands surrounding the Centre. Duffins Creek Headwaters I~anagement Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 46 O.9O CHAPTER SIX TRAIL AND RECOMMENDATIONS 6. i GENERAL TRAIL PLANS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The TRCA properties located in the Duffins Creek headwaters are presently fairly undisturbed, yet the lands face the recreational pressures exerted from a fairly extensive trail system, which includes both existing trails and proposed trails. For the most part, the lands in the planning area have been designated as a Nature Reserve Zone. By increasing public access to such sensitive natural areas, trails can provide both valuable educational and aesthetic exposure to our natural heritage system. However the critical issue of not increasing the impacts on these natural areas to the extent that their ecological function becomes disrupted must be addressed and achieved. The Trail Plans were developed by a dedicated sub-committee of interested Advisory Committee members. Each trail user group was represented and all proposed plans were presented to the Advisory Committee and the public. The information in the Trail Plan is intended to guide the development and management of trails, access points and related facilities in order to achieve the Management Plan goal and objectives. Refer to Map 10a for the Goodwood - Secord - Clubine Trail Plan, Map 10b for the Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest Trail Plan and Map 10¢ for the Claremont Field Centre Trail Plan. Trail Plan Goal: To protect and enhance the forest ecosystem while promoting public responsibility, understanding, appreciation and appropriate enjoyment of this important natural feature. Trail Plan Objectives: · To protect the environment by implementing sensitive trail design solutions. · To promote limited and passive recreational uses that do not have any negative environmental impacts. · To reduce social impacts (e.g. privacy, security, etc) on surrounding neighbors. · To provide planned opportunities for access and circulation. · To design a trail that meets the needs and requirements of the users and respects aesthetic considerations. · To provide opportunities for interpretation and education. Management Principles: · Provide opportunities for appropriate recreational enjoyment consistent with the Management Plan. · Provide a trail that will withstand an appropriate amount of use and enjoyment by users. · Assess, analyze, and fulfill user needs while ensuring ease of movement, safety, comfort, and protection of the environment. · Develop a comprehensive and integrated approach to interpretation of the forest's natural values, ecological processes and cultural heritage. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plar~ for TRCA Properties June~ 2003 47 LEGEND [] Existing Parking !~ Proposed Parking -~ Existing Access Trails Oak Ridges Trail ' Multi-Use Trail ,: Oak Ridges Loop Trail TRCA Property Boundary Building Road Ponds ~ Watershed Boundary 250 0 250 500 750 1000 Mete~ DUFFINS MANAG=MEN ~ PL~ ,FOR TRCA PROPERTIES UXBRIDGE SECORD -, GOODWOOD - SECORD -, CLUBINE DURHAM \ FOREST \ WALKER UXBRIDGE Paddng Existing Proposed _Pro. ,ppsed Access l-'OlntS Regional Attractions Municipal Boundary Rail Line Major Road Watercourse Building LEGEND Trails Multi-Use Trail ?~,~ ~,? Oak Ridoes Moraine .... Loop Tr~iil OaE Ridges Moraine Trail ,,/'k~?~ Trans-Canada Loop Trail Trans-Canada Trail ~¢? Trans-Canada Trail '~.721TRCA Property '~"-~ OHF ProDertv ~ Watershed Boundary ~-~ ~anaged bYTRCA t000 0 1000 2~o0 -3~00 Meters DUFFIN~ HEADWATERS MANAGEMENT P~N !FOR TRCA PROPERTIE~ Map I Ob - WALKER WOODS - TIMBER BROTHERS GLEN[''-'" Trai~ Plan PICKERIN;~ / LEGEND [] Existing Parking Restricted Access Trails Multi-Use Trail ~ TRCA Property !~Building Major Road lntemal Road Watercourse ['-"i Watershed Boundary 30O 0 3OO 600 DUFFINS HEADWATERS MANAGF_IV~ENT PUN FOR TRCA PROPERTIES Ma? ! Oc - C~REMON? Traii Pian 691 Provide signage and a trail guide to educate, and promote appreciation and protection of the environment. Ensure the cumulative effects of land use and activities within the forest are monitored, assessed and managed in a way that protects, restores and enhances the forest environment. Ciose surplus trails to reduce user impacts and monitor trail use and if necessary close trails temporarily to protect the environment and ensure user safety. 6.1.1 Detailed Trail Planning Recommendations PUBLIC USES - WALKER WOODS and GLEN MAJOR FOREST Passive resource based recreational uses are permitted, including hiking, horseback riding, cycling and cross-country skiing. · Provide a natural terrain trail surface with some spot hardening or boardwalks in wet areas. TRAIL LINKAGES Linkages to other trails and greenspaces should be encouraged wherever possible to provide corridors for animals, birds, and humans. Linkages provide a longer hike for the user as well as various experiences and landscapes. · Encourage trail links to Duffins Creek, Oak Ridges Moraine, Durham Forest, and the Waterfront Trail. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY The trails will be implemented in segments building on some of the existing routes. High priority areas are'located where existing use is heaviest and where major improvements are required, such as erosion repairs and drainage problems. Existing trails through sensitive areas will be closed and rehabilitated to a natural condition. Signage will be used to identify closed trails and to inform users. The Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest Trail Plan should be implemented in three phases: · Phase One - 2003/2004 - Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest between Concession 6 and Concession 7 · Phase Two - 2005 - Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest West of Concession 6 · Phase Three - 2006 - Glen Major Forest- East of Concession 7 The Goodwood, Secord and Clubine Properties Trail Plan should be implemented in two phases: · Phase One - 2005/2006 - Entire Secord and Goodwood Properties · Phase Two - 2007 - Entire Clubine Property MONITORING AND REVIEW The trail plan provides initial development and management recommendations. As the plan is implemented and uses change, the plan should be monitored and reviewed. Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 48 (}92 6.!.2 TRAIL DESIGN STANDARDS TRAIL DEFINITIONS The profile of a typical trail shows the basic components that make up the user zone for any' trail type. Ciearing Width Clearing Height Tread Width Tread Drainage Clearing Limits The dimension measured across the trail from which all vegetation, rocks or other obstructions are removed so as not to obstruct movement along the trail. The vertical dimension which must be cleared of all branches that would otherwise obstruct movement along the trail. The horizontal dimension across the trail which provides adequate space for comfortable and safe movement. The traveled portion of the trail right-of-waytypically sloped or crowned to shed water. Provision of methods to manage excessive water runoff (ditch, dip, waterbar, culvert, French drain, etc.). Point at which the disturbance to the natural environment is limited. Defines the trail Right-of-Way (R.O.W.). Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest Trail Standard General Design Standards - Trans Canada, Oak Ridges and Multi-Use Trail · Clearing Width: · Clearing Height: · Tread Width: · Tread Surface: · Minimum Length: · Optimum Length: · Desirable Grades: · Max. Sustainable Grade: · Desirable Duration: · Form: 3.0 metre 3.5 metre 2.5 metre maximum Native terrain I kilometre Iccp minimum 5-10+ km 0-15% 2O% 1 - 2 hours loop Loop or satellite Iccp (circular) Minimum trail standard for a hiking trail provided for a Iow to moderate level of use is a cleared right-of-way with minimum grubbing and no special tread surface, generally a natural trail. Although multi-use trails generally allow a natural system to remain more-or-less intact because they do not alter the overall size and shape of habitat patches, trails may contribute to a reduction in the quality of the natural system. Therefore, careful trail planning, including decommissioning some trails, is recommended to protect the numerous vulnerable habitats at Glen Major. June, 2003 4.9 093 Clearing Width 3.Om Tread Width 2.5 m Note: These are general standards and are not intended for construction. Each trail should be designed based on its type, level of use and specific site conditions. Duffins Creek Neadwaters ~a~a~eme~t P~s~.; f~ ~" , ~.,A ~ropertie.~ June, 2003 50 O94 Walker Woocis/Glen Major Forest/Goodwood/Secord/Ciubine/Ciaremont Hiking,Trail Standard General Design Standards - Hiking and Walking Trails Clearing Width: Clearing Height: Tread Width: Tread Surface: Minimum Length: Optimum Length: Desirable Grades: Desirable Duration: Form: 1 metre 2.5 metres 0.5 - 1.25 metres Natural Terrain I kilometre 5 - 10 kilometre 0 - 20 % with maximum sustained grade of 25% 1 - 2 hours Loop, satellite Iccp or maze Field Centre E Clearing Width lm Tread Width ~uffi~s Cre,~tr Headwaters i~a~a~err~.=~' ~[a~ for' TRC~: ~roperties Curie, 2003 51 6.1.3 Trail impacts and Mitigation Techniques The major sources of disturbance to the environment related to trail development are clearing of the trail route, human contact with wildlife, soil erosion, trail side trampling, and short cutting. Key potential causes of disturbance and their recommended mitigation methods are listed below. Clearing the trail route Route the trail to avoid important ecological elements, interpretive features, rare plants, and important habitat zones. · Strictly control the limit of disturbance to within the defined R.O.W. Zone. Human Contact Wildlife species and plant communities have different environmental levels of tolerance to human activity which could result in abandonment of habitats or ecological imbalances. Environmental impacts created by overuse can include: · Trampled vegetation; · Erosion on slopes; · .Compaction of soil; · Increased root exposure; · Trail widening around wet areas. Actions should include: · Avoid important habitat zones. · Where there is question as to specific impacts, favour the environment. · Locate activities for large groups and noisy recreational activities 100-200 m away from sensitive areas. · Avoid the use of large scale equipment out of scale for the specific construction and schedule construction operations at times that do not conflict with critical phases of seasonal wildlife or plant community cycles. · Provide access to sensitive habitat areas through small tributary trails and then only when kept to an acceptable level as determined by qualified staff (or discourage completely). · Viewing stations allow visitors to view sensitive areas from suitable distances. · Use can be controlled by making tributary trails dead end to minimize flow-through circulation. · Design tributary trails to be suitably difficult to encourage only serious users. Lessen trail width and where applicable downgrade the trail surface. This will provide an immediate message to the user. Trail relocation. Restrict access to specific areas during critical seasons of the year; 6..,95 Soil Erosion Erosion affects functional utility, safety, ecological balance, and aesthetics. The effects are a loss of topsoil, root exposure, stream sedimentation, contamination of water supplies, slides and slumping. Erosion is caused by erosion susceptible soils (especially when wet), excessive removal of vegetation, excessive compaction due to trampling, uncontrolled surface runoff, and improper installation of bridges and culverts. June, 2003 096 Locate trails where soiis are most resistant to erosion. In general, the coarser and more porous the soil, the greater the resistance to erosion. Use tread surfacing or bridging to protect soil and provide dry walking surface in wet areas or poor soil conditions. Ensure proper control of drainage on sloping trail sections by use of waterbars or culverts and cross slope the tread in the direction of the natural grade. Locate trails diagonally across slopes (only for areas in and out of a valley) rather than directly down the face of a slope at an angle that will sufficiently lower the trail grade to a suitable level. For Iow use hiking trails, incorporate natural trail dips into the trail surface so that drainage is diverted at frequent intervals of between 50-75 metres. Install 'waterbars' to provide trail crossings for runoff, where cross slope and grade dips are inadequate. Generally, a waterbar will provide a more efficient means of drainage where the grade along the length of the trail is less than 2% thus minimizing ponding. Use switchbacks on steep slopes to maintain optimum grades. Slope cross section of tread a minimum of 2% to direct small amounts of water across the trail surface. Intercept excessive runoff with ditches and a central crown and provide periodic crossings of culverts to minimize runoff build-up. Maintain vegetation as close to the trail edge as possible to stabilize soil and encourage percolation of water into the soil. Ensure proper siting and design of culverts and bridges to: provide for adequate peak drainage flows; minimize disturbance to stream beds and banks; locate on straight sections of streams, perpendicular to flow; and bridges are more suitable than culverts for large streams. Trail-Side Trampling Damage occurs to vegetation and soils by users who wander offtrails. The causes include the trail being too narrow; too many users; ill-defined trail edges; difficult or unsafe trails (muddy, eroded, blocked, mud slides, etc.). Provide trail width that can accommodate expected traffic volume based on design standards. Provide widenings where people are likely to gather (viewing points, features of interest, displays, etc.). Raise the trail tread by using boardwalks. The trail width should be adequate to accommodate the expected traffic volume and allow for widening where people are likely to gather such as access points, viewing points, features of interest and interpretive displays. Management controls such as signage or temporary closures should restrict use to optimum levels. Frequent checks should be made to ensure that trails are not blocked or obscured by 'deadfalls'. Where there are problems keeping users on trails, logs, branches and rooks can be used to mark trail edges. Jur~e, 2003 53 69? Short Cutting Damage occurs to vegetation and soils by users who wander off trails. This is caused by the trail being too difficult or unsafe; user is attracted to an interesting feature off trail; or an easier route is visible. Use natural features such as land form and vegetation to block or screen potential shortcut routes. Placing rocks or planting shrubs provides a suitable natural deterrent. Restrict construction of switchbacks to only most essential circumstances as they quite naturally provide amply opportunity for shortcutting and will generally require a great deal u, introduced deterrents such as planting or rock placement. Locate switchbacks with dense vegetation or rough ground between to eliminate the need for manmade barriers. Build in rough steps with boulders or logs on switchbacks to channel shortcutting traffic along a predetermined route. Adopt shortcuts which are superior to original routes as part of official route and close the original. Rehabilitate abandoned routes by natural plantings which closely resemble the native condition and vegetation. Close shortcuts which are hazardous or destructive, by placing obstruction atthe entrance and along the route with rocks, branches, fallen trees, or new native plantings. 6.1.4 Construction While ongoing use of trails creates impacts, the actual construction process results in a number of impacts to the environment. These can include pruning, removal of vegetation, and soil compaction caused by construction machinery repeatedly traveling over the same access route. Great care must be taken to control direct and indirect impacts during the construction process. Work done on existing and new trails should be completed so that the amount of disturbance to the site is minimized. TIMING · Timing of the construction is important. Wet/rainy periods and nesting/breeding seasons should be avoided to minimize impact. CLEARING The clearing operation not only refers to cutting of trees but the removal of all materials that may obstruct movement along the trail and create a potential hazard. Prior to clearing, a tree impact assessment will be completed that provides a description of the trees, numbers, species, condition and location to ensure appropriate trail routing with acceptable environmental impact. Large trees are to be felled, and stumps are to be cut off flush or preferably below grade and removed completely. Fallen trees should be cut into lengths that are manageable for removal from the trail. Complete .flush-to-grade clearing will generally occur on the tread surface while the rest of the cleared R.O.W. will only see the removal of trees and large shrubs. Smaller shrubs and groundcover will remain. All unnatural wastes should be removed from the site and disposed of properly. Natural materials can be left on site but spread out to not cause a fire hazard. ~,~eei, Neadwaters Management Piar, June, 2003 54 () 98 SURFACING The existing grade should not be unnecessarily disturbed to obtain a trail base especially on flat, solid ground. Minimum disturbance will provide the best natural image for the final product. When native soil is not a suitable tread surface to carry a specific user or does not provide adequate support, special tread surfaces can be provided. The surfaces should provide an appropriate level of comfort and safety for the user and should be constructed in such a way to blend in with the surrounding environment. A mulch type surface (bark/wood chips) is attractive and compatible with the natural environment ~,u~ does not compact well, therefore is not suitable for heavy use foot traffic, or multi-use trails. Wood chips should be placed on the trail in sections where root exposure is extreme or drainage is a slight problem. Where wood chips are required they should be laid down the width of the tread at a depth of 50 - 75 mm. Chips should be no larger than 50 mm by 10 mm thick. Subgrade preparation is generally not required for this application. BOARDWALKS The boardwalks should be constructed on site. Generally the construction is timber and planking fixed on timber posts, large flat rocks, or concrete piles. A variety of configurations are possible depending on whether the boardwalk is a simple walkway, or lookout platform and whether it overhangs a slope or a water body. The construction technique for a particular application should conform to local building codes. Where drainage becomes a safety concern, boardwalks should be used. Boardwalks are required in a number of locations north of the Pickering-Uxbridge Townline in the Glen Major Forest on the Trans Canada Loop Trail and the Multi-Use Trail. Detailed site assessment should be conducted prior to construction. BARRIERS Barriers can be constructed of a variety of materials from rock, or timber, to steel. Care should be taken to choose a material and appropriate barrier to meet safety requirements while still able to blend into the natural landscape. 'Green' barriers may also be suitable in certain situations (i.e. hawthorn, raspberries, etc.). 6.1.5 SIGNAGE Trail signs are an important element that enhances the trail experience and provides guidance to the user. Signs provide four major functions: · Identification · Direction · Regulations · Information/Interpretation Location of signs is of utmost importance. All signs should be placed so that they face the anticipated direction of traffic, are unobstructed by vegetation, and are easy to read and understand. The colour and scale must be in keeping with the site conditions and the mounting height should fit the specific user. Duffins "" "' ,.-r~ei.: Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 PRIMARY TRAIL HEAD There should be six primary trail head locations for Walker Woods including: intersection of Albright Road and Concession 6 · Concession 7, opposite Microwave Towers Brock Road North of Uxbridge-Pickering Townline Concession 6, 600 metres North of Uxbridge-Pickering Townline · Concession 7, 200 metres North of Uxbridge-Pickering Townline Lake Ridge Road 800 metres South of Chalk Lake Road 099 and Gten Major Forest The facilities that should be provided at the Primary Trail Head includes: · Parking · General Signage with Identification, Direction, Regulations and Information about trail length, time and difficulty. · Portable Toilet - To be determined as per site specific evaluation SECONDARY TRAIL HEAD There should be five secondary trail head locations for Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest including: · Oak Ridges Trail as it enters North Walker Woods from the West · Concession 6, 400 metres north of AIbright Road entering North Walker Woods · 500 metres west of Concession 6 and Albright Road · Concession 7, 600 metres South of Chalk Lake Road · South West corner of Glen Major Forest, north of Rail Line The facilities that should be provided at the Secondary Trail Head includes: · General Signage Information with Identification, Direction, Regulations and Information about trail length, time and difficulty. TRAIL MAP & GUIDE A trail map and guide should be developed and made available to users for pick-up at primary trail head locations. Information in the guide should include: · the location of formal trails, points of interest and rules of conduct for trail use ("Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints"); · a trail map with interesting features and facts about the natural and cultural heritage of the area that is cross referenced to numbered sign posts. The trail map and guide should be made available to the trail user at trail head locations, public buildings and the TRCA web site. INTERPRETIVE SIGNS Interpretive signs should be incorporated into the sign program at a few key locations to: · highlight natural, cultural heritage facts and features; · increase public awareness of conservation; · increase public appreciation and respect of natural and cultural resources. June, 2003 56 I00 6.1.6 TRAIL MANAGEMENT Environmental concerns identified in this study include the need for trail rehabilitation and/or closure. Measures such as the re-routing of trails, trail edge definition, and structures will help protect sensitive areas. A Trails Implementation Committee should be established to assist TRCA with ongoing trail management and maintenance. USER "*' "' M~,,,A,.~EMENT Trail operation involves managing the type, volume and season of trail use to achieve the goal and objectives for trail development and management. The elements of user management include: monitoring volume of use, type of use and effects of use on the trail management objectives; implementing trail restrictions; and informing users through newsletters, brochures, maps, and signs of the types and levels of use intended for the trail. MANAGING TRAIL USE Restrict use on trails where there is concern for safety, significant conflicts, unacceptable resource damage or when operation and maintenance costs are excessive due to over use, type of user or seasonal conditions. The trails should be actively monitored and closed as required to protectthe environment. Advisory restrictions include posting of notices to warn users of ongoing maintenance work, fallen trees or other natural conditions which potentially restrict trail use. Signing should be positive and communicate a 'good host' image and explain why a particular behaviour is requested. Avoid negative signs. Community involvement and support for prohibitions prior to taking action will help in enforcement of the restrictions. Notices of restrictions should be shown on maps as well as newsletters and t,a: g~,des. 6.1.7 MAINTENANCE A well designed and constructed trail system is the foundation for many enjoyable years of walking and hiking. To keep the trails safe, functional and attractive through the years, a routine maintenance program is necessary. Maintenance of the trails should be carried out on a regular basis by TRCA and with the help of the Stewardship Committee to prevent the trails from falling into disrepair. SURFACE TREATMENT · Fill Iow spots with native soil or woodchip mulch · Where root exposure is hazardous, cover with mulch to protect the roots from further damage. EROSION · Monitor trails for erosion damage. Fill channels eroded through trails with appropriate material and compact. Duffins Creek Headwaters June, 2003 Serious damage should be given prompt attention while diverting trail traffic for safety reasons. LITTER REMOVAL Ensure that garbage left along the trails by users or blown in from adjacent properties is picked up on a regular basis. · Garbage checks should be made periodically, especially in high use areas. Bottles and tin cans should be separated from other garbage and be recycled. · If excess litter becomes a problem, consider organizing clean-up days and providing scavenger proof disposal bins at access points and trail heads. INVASIVE VEGETATION CONTROL Plants include Dog Strangling Vine, Purple Loosestrife, Garlic Mustard, European Buckthorn, Dame's Rocket, Norway Maple, Manitoba Maple, Russian Olive, Japanese Knotweed · Mechanical methods (digging/hand-pulling) may be useful in controlling or eradicating small infestations, and preventing the establishment of new colonies in uninfested areas. However, many invasive plants are very resilient, and can withstand several years of top- growth removal. · TRCA and The Stewardship Committee should research the application of herbicides. PRUNING AND TRIMMING · Major limbs or treeS adjacent to the trail which are in poor condition should be removed. Branches, limbs, and any other debris should be removed from the trail tread and piled to encourage wildlife use or as trail edges. Using pruners or loppers, prune back branches leaning into the trail R.O.W. and prune off at ground level any woody sapling growth in the R.O.W. Trails require sensitive vegetation control on a semi-regular basis to ensure the path is not crowded or blocked while maintaining natural character along the path edge. WINDFALLS/HAZARD TREE REMOVAL · Monitor trails fOr fallen trees, limbs, and debris and coordinate their removal as soon as possible. · If material cannot be removed immediately, eliminate dangerous hanging branches and trunks or 'leaners'. Cut a path through fallen tree debris to allow user thoroughfare and leave remainder in place. Extra debris in the R.O.W. may be cleaned up at a later date. · Tree trunks which have fallen over pedestrian trails may be left to deter vehicular traffic if it is not too difficult for pedestrians to cross. · Redirect trail users during the clearance process or close the trail to ensure user safety. · Remove debris entirely in trail head areas. In natural areas, the trunk and debris may be left to encourage wildlife use but it should be deposited out of sight from the trail. Ensure the trail is returned to its intended condition after maintenance has been completed. This may involve repairs to the trail surface. STRUCTURES Inspect all structures for safety and stability on a yearly basis but a monthly check is also useful in preventing major damage or accident. ~uffins Creek Neadwaters i¢;a~agement Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 58 i02 Boardwalk decking and support members should be monitored on a regular basis and broken or rotting wood should be replaced immediately. SIGNAGE Check to make sure that signs have not Peen removed or repositioned. Replace missing signs as soon as possible, even if a temporary sign is required. Replace or repair damaged signs as soon as possible to maintain trail quality and direction. Evaluate signage on a regular, yearly basis to maintain finish and message quality. Repaint or stain as necessary. Straighten and secure posts. Install seasonal signs with appropriate sign posts and remove them promptly when their message is no longer appropriate or necessary. 6.1.8 TRAIL DEVELOPMENT COSTS Preliminary cost estimates for each phase of development are provided for budget purposes. The costs outlined are in 2003 dollars and are guidelines only. Cost savings can be incorporated with the help of volunteer labour for appropriate tasks. These savings have not been determined at this time. Phase One Trail Development at Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest - 2003/04 - $75,000 ° Parking/Signage/Boardwalks/Trail Routing Improvements/Trail Guide Phase Two Trail Development at Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest - 2005 - · Parking/Signage/Trail Routing Improvements $50,000 Phase Three Trail Development at Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest - 2006 - · Parking/Signage/Trail Routing Improvements/Trail Guide $35,000 Phase One Trail Development at Goodwood and Secord Properties - 2005/06 - · Parking/Signage/Boardwalks/Trail Routing Improvements $75,0OO Phase Two Trail Development at Clubine Properties - 2007 - · Parking/Signage/Trail Routing Improvements/Trail Guide $45,000 6.1.9 MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS An operations system is required to plan, schedule, perform, and evaluate maintenance activities. The following guidelines outline the development of such a system. TRCA should encourage user groups to actively participate with the Trail Implementation Committee in this program. · ESTABLISH MAINTENANCE OBJECTIVES These may vary from trail to trail depending on traffic flow or special trail features such as ecologically sensitive areas. The major objectives will include ensuring user safety and maintaining the trail and its amenities at a level consistent with the design and planning standards. ~uffins Creek Heaciwaters l~/ianagement Pia~, for TRCA Properties June, 2003 59 · EVALUATE TRAIL NEEDS This process of making lists of maintenance tasks and seasonal requirements would be required to satisfy the maintenance objectives. DEVELOP A MAINTENANCE PROGRAM Condense the maintenance tasks and seasonal requirements into a preliminary schedule. Use this schedule to determine the number of crews required to complete the program and the number of staff per crew. With this information, an initial inventory of hand equipment and power equipment, including motor vehicles can be determined. Of course, the maintenance budget becomes a factor in all these decisions. · ESTABLISH A TRAIL MONITORING SYSTEM To facilitate prompt repairs along a trail system or determine whether or not a trail needs additional seasonal maintenance, it is important to monitor the trails regularly. This involves a thorough inspection of the trails, reporting all deficiencies and their location should be reported in a Icg format. Specifictasks can be assigned a code number for ease of reference and execution by staff. · SCHEDULE AND RECORD MAINTENANCE Regular maintenance can be scheduled on a yearly basis. This forms the basic structure of the maintenance program for which labour and equipment can be allocated but special maintenance (windfalls or vandalism, which are unplanned occurrences) must also be given attention during scheduling. Schedules will become the basis for work orders. As the work orders are completed by staff on the trails, work reports should be kept detailing the tasks completed, time required and work conditions (sun, rain, brush, bog, etc.). These work r.eports should be kept in files pertaining to each particular trail. The reports allow for future reference regarding the condition of the trail and can be used to develop activity summary sheets or work standards. Activity summaries should be reviewed every two or three years to ensure that they conform to the work on the trails. The summaries can be used to evaluate efficiency of work crews and create time-efficient maintenance schedules. J. 03 · MAINTENANCE EVALUATION The trail logs and work reports should be reviewed on an annual basis, if not more frequently to determine excessive trail use, vandalism, damage, and environmental degradation. This information must be communicated to trail planning and routing authorities so that they can reassess the trail routes. This evaluation may result in trail closures, upscaling, downscaling, or re-routing. 6.1.10 VANDALISM Trails are subject to many forms of vandalism including the carving, defacing, and misusing of washrooms, shelters, benches, picnic tables, and trees. Such acts of wilful or negligent destruction require both preventive and reactive attention. Although very little will stop the determined vandal, there are many techniques to deter casual vandalism or bring the vandal to justice. Bollards, posts, or gates should be used to control unwanted vehicular access. Semi regular police patrols can be used to monitor sections of trail which are particularly attractive to vandals. Strategically placed lighting will discourage destructive activity. Perhaps the most important effort which should be made in the prevention and Duffi~s Creek. Headwaters ~&anagement P~a~,L for TRCA.~rop_rt,...'- '--~ June, 2003 6O apprehension of vandalism is the education of the public. Various media, including television and newspaper as well as education programs in schools can raise public awareness regarding the issues which surround vandalism. Within parks and along trails, orientation displays can be used to educate the trail users about the damages of vandalism. Trail brochures and eye-catching posters can also service similar functions. Outreach programs to children in their classrooms as well as sponsoring outdoor education programs allow the Authority to teach respect for the facilities and foster pride in the natural environment. Public scorn for vandalism is easily raised by such publicity and should be directed into positive activities such as Neighbourhood Watch and other volunteer surveillance programs. When vandalism does occur, the damage should be repaired as soon as possible so it does not act as an encouragement for further damage. Sanding out carvings on wood structures and painting over graffiti eliminates the instigation for others to repeat the offence. Frequently damaged objects or structures can be made less susceptible to damage or constructed in a manner that involves easy repairs. If vandals are caught, they should be prosecuted as an example for others. Tolerance of destructive acts resembles an open invitation to repeat the vandalism with impunity. Trail staff should be trained to be aware of the causes and types of vandalism and how to handle a vandalism incident if they manage to apprehend someone in the act. These reactive measures can serve to significantly reduce the acts of vandalism on trails. 6.1.11 SUMMARY This plan provides an initial development and management strategy for the TRCA properties. It is essential that, as the plan is implemented and uses change, the entire plan should be monitored and reviewed. 2¢uffi~s C,-eek Headwaters: ~ar, a.aement P~ar, for %RCA P~opeAies June, 2003 61 CHAPTER SEVEN PLAN iMPLEIVIENTAT ON It is anticipated that the TRCA properties located in the Duffins Creek Headwaters will become a model of sus~ainability that will be achieved by protecting and enhancing the area's natural environment while providing environmental, recreational and outdoor education benefits to the community through self-sustaining revenues and community stewardship. It is therefore imperative that the management of the properties be based on sound environmental management principles, collaboration with partner municipalities, interest groups and the local community. 7.1 FUTURE MANAGEMENT 7.1.1 Agency and Municipal Stewardship The natural, cultural, and recreational resources that exist on the Duffins Creek Headwater properties, provide benefits beyond the TRCA property boundaries. These resources extend into the surrounding landscape therefore, integration with the community was considered throughout the planning process. In support of the policies of the TRCA, municipalities and government agencies should be encouraged to have regard for the following recommendations when considering new community design: Protect, restore and enhance as many natural open spaces to maintain terrestrial natural habitat connectivity and interior habitats. Create publicly accessible trail systems that will connect communities to the Oak Ridges Moraine, the Trans Canada Trail and the Waterfront Trail. Promote private land stewardship that increases awareness about Best Management Practices and creates opportunities to engage landowners in the protection and enhancement of the TRCA properties and its valuable resources. 7.1.2 Community Stewardship The Duffins Creek Headwater properties will continue to provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, conservation education, and nature appreciation to the surrounding communities. The area will also provide many health and economic benefits to the community. The key roles of the community to fulfil the goal and objectives of this Management Plan include:. · Establish Two Stewardship Committees Two Stewardship Committees should be established, one for the East Duffins Creek Headwaters and one for the West Duflins Creek Headwaters, to assist with the implementation of this Management Plan. These committees could assist in the review of all proposed public uses and' related activities for the property. The committees could also assist with specific aspects such as trails, education, and communications. Another important role will be to assist the TRCA in raising funds to implement site development, maintenance, environmental protection and restoration activities. Duffins Creet: Headwaters IVlanagement PJan foF TRCA PropeAies ,June, 2_003 62 A list of general tasks that the Stewardship Committees may implement, is identified as follows: Prepare a communications plan to raise awareness and inform surrounding communities about the TRCA properties. ~ Assist with the preparation of a detailed restoration plan and implementation scheduie. Establish a network of groups and individuals interested in participating in a volunteer program. Prepare access and trail development plans° Prepare and install natural and cultural heritage interpretative signs. Assist TRCA in implementing the various stewardship programs including the Rural Clean Water Program. Develop educational resources and tools for private land owners and visitors. Build trail heads with signage and appropriate parking. Monitor the trail for invasive plant material and prevent their spread by using barriers and other eradication techniques. Monitor the presence of noxious weeds on site and remove as necessary. Organize celebration events to increase people's awareness. Assist TRCA in implementing the Terrestrial Natural Heritage Monitoring Program. Secure financial and in-kind resources to undertake the work. Private Land Stewardship Adjacent landowners and users of the TRCA properties can contribute to ensure that the surrounding landscape does not negatively impact the environmental quality of this unique natural area: Plant native species on adjacent lands instead of planting exotic vegetation species, some of which are invasive species such as Purple Loosestrife and Norway Maple. Leash pets on site to minimize disturbance to wildlife and promote "poop and scoop" to prevent pet faeces from entering the watercourses after rainfall events. Protect and restore private lands identified for natural area regeneration through the appliCation of TRCA's Terrestrial Natural Heritage Approach. Participate in a private land stewardship program, which assists landowners with agricultural best management practices, preservation ofwoodlots and other wildlife habitat on their property. Participate in TRCA's Rural Clean Water Program. Assist with the implementation recommendations of the Walkerton Inquiry's Part 2 Report regarding source protection, particularly for private wells. All priorities should be reviewed and re-evaluated in terms of their feasibility as needed. 7.1.3 PUBLIC USE It is critical that the Trail Plans, which were developed for this Management Plan, be completed and implemented in order to ensure protection of the environment, appropriate trail use and user safety. The trail plans were developed through extensive consultation with all user groups and trhe proposed plans are fully supported. In addition, the concept plans which have been developed should be further refined and implemented. These plans if realized will help TRCA to increase user enjoyment, protect the environment and increase revenues. ~)uffins Creek Headwaters ~ana~emer~t Ptar: for TRCA Progenies June, 2003 63 7.1,4 SAFETY AND SECURITY Discussions will be made with police and other emergency services providers to identify their concerns and questions regarding accessing the lands for patrol and emergency response purposes. As a result of the lands natural character, many areas are inaccessible by convent'ona'. response vehicles (m. e, Ambulance and Police). Special considerations *r-" therefore required including: · A trail Iocator system such as a series of distance markers along the trails to locate/orient trail users. Geoaraphically integrate the trail location system into the emergency response system of th~ fire, police, and ambulance departments. A fully integrated map depicting all named trails and locations of markers along each trail should be installed at all major and minor trail heads. An emergency response plan shOuld be developed for the area with involvement from Iooal and neighbouring emergency service providers. 7.2 MAINTENANCE OF MANAGEMENT PLAN At meeting #6/03, held on July 25,2003, The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority approved the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties. Resolution #Al 58/03 "THAT the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties, dated June 2003, as attached, be approved; THAT staff circulate the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties to the Ontario Heritage Foundation, the Township of Uxbridge, and the City of Pickering for endorsement; THAT staff send a letter of thanks to the members of the Duffins Creek Headwaters Advisory Committee for their dedicated assistance with the preparation of the Management Plan; THAT copies of the Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties be circulated to the members of the Advisory Committee, the Township of Uxbridge, the City of Pickering, and other appropriate agencies, groups and individuals; THAT staff work with the Township of Uxbridge staff to investigate options and develop a strategy to address limiting access on closed road allowances that are adjacent to TRCA owned land; THAT staff prepare a report in fall of 2003 on Stewardship Management Plan implementation and the potential for integration with the Watershed Plan for Duffins Creek and Carruthers Creek; Puffins Creeir Headwaters Mana~emer~t Plan for TRCZ, ProDe~ies June, 2003 64 AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to utilize the Strategy for Public Use on Conservation Authority Lands (1995) when considering new public uses on the TRCA's Duffins Creek Headwater Properties". 7.2.! P~N REVIEW AND AMENDMEN'f The Management Plan will undergo a review every seven to ten years. If major revisions are necessary to reflect changing environmental, social, or economic conditions, they will only be done after consultation with affected groups and individuals. Revisions of the Plan will be in keeping with the original stated vision and objective of the Plan to protect the natural, recreational and educational values of the property. The Management Plan identifies potential public use zones. Any specific uses proposed within these areas will be screened and assessed according to the Strategy for Public Use of Conservation Authority Lands (1995). A community consultation process will also be employed at this later stage of planning to ensure local and regional interests have input into the concept and detailed design review. The Stewardship Committee will provide input on all such proposals. The screening process for specific public uses will ensure that all proposed uses, facilities, and landscape changes will be thoroughly examined and designed to minimize disruption, and to protect, enhance, or restore the natural values of the area. Duffins C. reei~: Headwaters l~anagerner~t P~ar; ~:or TRGA Prope~ies dune, 2003 65 091 Provide signage and a trail guide to educate, and promote appreciation and protection of the environment. Ensure the cumulative effects of land use and activities within the forest are monitored, assessed and managed in a way that protects, restores and enhances the forest environment. Ciose surplus trails to reduce user impacts and monitor trail use and if necessary close trails temporarily to protect the environment and ensure user safety. 6.1.1 Detailed Trail Planning Recommendations PUBLIC USES - WALKER WOODS and GLEN MAJOR FOREST Passive resource based recreational uses are permitted, including hiking, horseback riding, cycling and cross-country skiing. · Provide a natural terrain trail surface with some spot hardening or boardwalks in wet areas. TRAIL LINKAGES Linkages to other trails and greenspaces should be encouraged wherever possible to provide corridors for animals, birds, and humans. Linkages provide a longer hike for the user as well as various experiences and landscapes. · Encourage trail links to Duffins Creek, Oak Ridges Moraine, Durham Forest, and the Waterfront Trail. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY The trails will be implemented in segments building on some of the existing routes. High priority areas arelocated where existing use is heaviest and where major improvements are required, such as erosion repairs and drainage problems. Existing trails through sensitive areas will be closed and rehabilitated to a natural condition. Signage will be used to identify closed trails and to inform users. The Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest Trail Plan should be implemented in three phases: · Phase One - 2003/2004- Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest between Concession 6 and Concession 7 · Phase Two - 2005 - Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest West of Concession 6 · Phase Three - 2006 - Glen Major Forest- East of Concession 7 The Goodwood, Secord and Clubine Properties Trail Plan should be implemented in two phases: · Phase One - 2005/2006 - Entire Secord and Goodwood Properties · Phase Two - 2007 - Entire Clubine Property MONITORING AND REVIEW The trail plan provides initial development and management recommendations. implemented and uses change, the plan should be monitored and reviewed. As the plan is Duffins Creek Headwaters Management Plan for TRCA Properties June, 2003 48 (.',,92 6.1.2 TRAIL DESIGN STANDARDS TRAIL DEFINITIONS Ti~e profile of a typical trail shows the basic components that make up the user zone for any trail type. Clearing Width Clearing Height Tread Width Tread Drainage Clearing Limits The dimension measured across the trail from which all vegetation, rocks or other obstructions are removed so as not to obstruct movement along the trail. The vertical dimension which must be cleared of all branches that would otherwise obstruct movement along the trail. The horizontal dimension across the trail which provides adequate space for comfortable and safe movement. The traveled portion of the trail right-of-waytypically sloped or crowned to shed water. Provision of methods to manage excessive water runoff (ditch, dip, waterbar, culvert, French drain, etc.). Point at which the disturbance to the natural environment is limited. Defines the trail Right-of-Way (R.O.W.). Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest Trail Standard General Design Standards - Trans Canada, Oak Ridges and Multi-Use Trail · Clearing Width: 3.0 metre · Clearing Height: 3.5 metre - Tread Width: 2.5 metre maximum · Tread Surface: Native terrain · Minimum Length: 1 kilometre loop minimum · Optimum Length: 5-10+ km · Desirable Grades: 0-15% · Max. Sustainable Grade: 20% · Desirable Duration: 1 - 2 hours loop · Form: Loop or satellite loop (circular) Minimum trail standard for a hiking trail provided for a Iow to moderate level of use is a cleared right-of-way with minimum grubbing and no special tread surface, generally a natural trail. Although multi-use trails generally allow a natural system to remain more-or-less intact because they do not alter the overall size and shape of habitat patches, trails may contribute to a reduction in the quality of the natural system. Therefore, careful trail planning, including decommissioning some trails, is recommended to protect the numerous vulnerable habitats at Glen Major. Duffirts Creei~ Heaawaters i~iar;a~emer~t; P,a~ for TRCA Properties June, 2003 49 093 Note: These are general standards and are not intended for construction. Each trail should be designed based on its type, level of use and specific site conditions. guffJn~~ Creel...- Headwaters BAanagement :~[~ fo~ T..~,..~. mroDerties ,June, 2003 50 O94 Walker Woods/Glen Major Forest/Goodwood/Secord/Ciubine/Claremont Field Centre - Hiking,Trail Standard General Design Standards - Hiking and Walking Trails Clearing Width: Clearing Height: · Tread Width: · Tread Surface: o Minimum Length: · Optimum Length: · Desirable Grades: · Desirable Duration: · Form: 1 metre 2.5 metres 0.5 - 1.25 metres Natural Terrain I kilometre 5 - 10 kilometre 0 - 20 % with maximum sustained grade of 25% 1 - 2 hours Loop, satellite Iccp or maze Clearing Width lm Tread Vv~dth Duffins Creek Headwaters ~ana~em. ent ~la~ June, 2003 5i 6.1.3 Trail impacts and Mitigation Techniques The major sources of disturbance to the environment related to trail development are clearing of the trail route, human contact with wildlife, soil erosion, trail side trampling, and short cutting. Key potential causes of disturbance and their recommended mitigation methods are listed below. Clearing the trail route Route the trail to avoid important ecological elements, interpretive features, rare plants, and important habitat zones. · Strictly control the limit of disturbance to within the defined R.O.W. Zone. Human Contact Wildlife species and plant communities have different environmental levels of tolerance to human activity which could result in abandonment of habitats or ecological imbalances. Environmental impacts created by overuse can include: · Trampled vegetation; · Erosion on slopes; · ,Compaction of soil; · Increased root exposure; · Trail widening around wet areas. Actions should include: · Avoid important habitat zones. · Where there is question as to specific impacts, favour the environment. · Locate activities for large groups and noisy recreational activities 100-200 m away from sensitive areas. · Avoid the use of large scale equipment out of scale for the specific construction and schedule construction operations at times that do not conflict with critical phases of seasonal wildlife or plant community cycles. · Provide access to sensitive habitat areas through small tributary trails and then only when kept to an acceptable level as determined by qualified staff (or discourage completely). · Viewing stations allow visitors to view sensitive areas from suitable distances. · Use can be controlled by making tributary trails dead end to minimize flow-through circulation. · Design tributary trails to be suitably difficult to encourage only serious users. Lessen trail width and where applicable downgrade the trail surface. This will provide an immediate message to the user. · Trail relocation. · Restrict access to specific areas during critical seasons of the year; ©95 Soil Erosion Erosion affects functional utility, safety, ecological balance, and aesthetics. The effects are a loss of topsoil, root exposure, stream sedimentation, contamination of water supplies, slides and slumping. Erosion is caused by erosion susceptible soils (especially when wet), excessive removal of vegetation, excessive compaction due to trampling, uncontrolled surface runoff, and improper installation of bridges and culverts. Duffins Creek Headwaters i~a~age~,e~t Piar~ June, 2003 52 096 Locate trails where soils are most resistant to erosion. In general, the coarser and more porous the soil, the greater the resistance to erosion. Use tread surfacing or bridging to protect soil and provide dry walking surface in wet areas or poor soil conditions. Ensure proper control of drainage on sloping trail sections by use of waterbars or culverts and cross slope the tread in the direction of the natural grade. Locate trails diagonally across slopes (only for areas in and out of a valley) rather than directly down the face of a slope at an angle that will sufficiently lower the trail grade to a suitable level. For Iow use hiking trails, incorporate natural trail dips into the trail surface so that drainage is diverted at frequent intervals of between 50-75 metres. Install 'waterbars' to provide trail crossings for runoff, where cross slope and grade dips are inadequate. Generally, a waterbar will provide a more efficient means of drainage where the grade along the length of the trail is less than 2% thus minimizing ponding. Use switchbacks on steep slopes to maintain optimum grades. Slope cross section of tread a minimum of 2% to direct small amounts of water across the trail surface. Intercept excessive runoff with ditches and a central crown and provide periodic crossings of culverts to minimize runoff build-up. Maintain vegetation as close to the trail edge as possible to stabilize soil and encourage percolation of water into the soil. Ensure proper siting and design of culverts and bridges to: provide for adequate peak drainage flows; minimize disturbance to stream beds and banks; locate on straight sections of streams, perpendicular to flow; and bridges are more suitable than culverts for large streams. Trail-Side Trampling Damage occurs to vegetation and soils by users who wander off trails. The causes include the trail being too narrow; too many users; ill-defined trail edges; difficult or unsafe trails (muddy, eroded, blocked, mud slides, etc.). Provide trail width that can accommodate expected traffic volume based on design standards. Provide widenings where people are likely to gather (viewing points, features of interest, displays, etc.). Raise the trail tread by using boardwalks. The trail width should be adequate to accommodate the expected traffic volume and allow for widening where people are likely to gather such as access points, viewing points, features of interest and interpretive displays. Management controls such as signage or temporary closures should restrict use to optimum levels. Frequent checks should be made to ensure that trails are not blocked or obscured by 'deadfalls'. Where there are problems keeping users on trails, logs, branches and rocks can be used to mark trail edges. June. 2003 53 RECOMMENDATION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DATE MOVED BY SECONDED BY That the draft by-law to appoint twenty-two persons to enforce the Parking By-law at 1467 Whites Road, one person to enforce the Parking By-law at 375, 1450 and 1550 Kingston Road, one person to enforce the Parking By-law at 1822 Whites Road, 1100 Begley Street and 1865 Kingston Road, and two persons to enforce the parking by-law at 1822 Whites Road, be forwarded to Council for approval. REPORT TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Report Number: CL 09/04 Date: January 30, 2004 From: Bruce Taylor City Clerk Subject: Appointment to enforce the Parking By-law at 1467 Whites Road, 375, 1450, 1550 and 1865 Kingston Road, 1822 Whites Road, 1100 Begley Street. Recommendation: That the draft by-law to appoint twenty-two persons to enforce the Parking By-law at 1467 Whites Road, one person to enforce the Parking By-law at 375, 1450 and 1550 Kingston Road, one person to enforce the Parking By-law at 1822 Whites Road, 1100 Begley Street and 1865 Kingston Road, and two persons to enforce the parking by-law at 1822 Whites Road, be forwarded to Council for approval. Executive Summary: Not Applicable Financial Implications: None Background: Correspondence has been received from Knights on Guard, requesting the appointment of twenty-two persons as By-law Enforcement Officers for the purpose of enforcing the Parking By-law at 1467 Whites Road - Sarah McDonalds Place. Correspondence has also been received from Securitas Canada, requesting the appointment of one person as By-law Enforcement Officer for the purpose of enforcing the Parking By-law at 1822 Whites Road, 1100 Begley Street and 1865 Kingston Road and two persons to enforce the Parking By-law at 1865 Kingston Road. Squareco Properties Inc. has forwarded correspondence requesting the appointment of one person as By-law Enforcement Officer for the purpose of enforcing the Parking By- law at 375, 1450 and 1550 Kingston Road. Report CL 09-04 Subject: Appointment of By-law Enforcement Officers Date: January 30, 2004 !Ii Page 2 Attachments: 2. 3. 4. Correspondence from Knights On Guard Correspondence from Securitas Canada Correspondence from Squareco Properties Inc. Draft By-law Prepared By: Approved / Endorsed By: Debbie Kearns Committee Coordinator BT:dk Attachments Copy: Chief Administrative Officer Taylor City Clerk Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Com~il ,, Th(~r~'s j. Q~n, ~l~ief Ad/npif~a~ Jan-28-04 !5:25 KNIGHTS GUARD 112 Secure, Deter & Protect January 26, 2004 Town of Picketing By-Law Department Parking Enforeemem Unit F~: (905) 420-9685 Att: Debby Kearns P~: By-Law Enforcement Pl~s~ append to our list of By-l,aw Enforcement location, Sarah McDonalds Place 1467 Whit~ Road. We would like the next S~'ufity Offi~r~ to be appointed for Parking Enforcement. Officer Name I. Jeffery Muzzin 2. Richard Torraville 3. Jerome L~cky 4. Robert St~mton 5. Matthew lensen 6, Wayne Miller 7. Gerard Johnson 8. Steven Schl~ret 9. Bill Dimkovski 10. Russel Harwood 11.Amanda Reardon 12. Kostc Hristov 13. John Cunningham 14. K~vin Hoowr 15. ~e Dimkovski 16. Donald Downie 17. Eric Assels ! 8. Robert Stenton 19. Paul Smith 20. Edward liaehnel 21, William Brulotte 22. Amanda Mcfarling Please contact me directly if you have any questions or concerns, Bill Dimkovski Director of Op.~~-~._'~__,./,______..._..) ACHM=I T# TO REPORT January 30, 2004 Corporation of the City of P/ck~r/ng Debbie ~ One the Esphn~ P/clm-/ng, Ontario L1V 6K7 Dear Debb~ As per our oonversafion, Securitas Canada Ltd. t~spe~tfally r~qu~ts that thc Corporati~ of the Cit~ of Piokerlng approves and ln~,o~!~a ~ason Nicholson as a Private Property Parking Enforc~mcn% Officer for the following 3 propertie~; 1822 Whttea Road No~h 1100 Beglcy St Also, we i'ea~ ~quest that the foUowin~ two (2) t'rlvm Pretty ~trtau~ Enfo~ement Officers. Roger Wiggins and Miaty Thompson have the following gropetty listed aa approved loeafions to eaforce bylaws; 1865 IZing~trOn Road ShOUld you have any questiom, please f~l free to contact myself, Sincerely, Branch Manager, I)urham Region !13 Securitas Canada 90~ $t~o, Stree~ Nort~ Unit lC O~lmw~ Om~o LIG 'fcloi~hene: (905) 571~.040 F~x; (90~ 571-0517 114 SQUARECO PROPERTIES INC. Faxed and Marled January 26,2004 Mr. Bruc,~ylor Cit.~.-6ferk C[[y of Pickering One the Esplanade Pickering, Ontario L1V 6K7 Dear Mr. Taylor: We would respectfully request that David Crandall of DHL Properties Inc. be appointed a by-law enforcement officer in order to enforce the parking regulations at our Pickering properties. As you may be aware, Mr. Crandall already is a By-law Enforcement Officer for other properties in Pickering. The address of the properties are as follows: Rougemount Square - 375 Kingston Road, Pickering Pickering Square Inc. - 1450 Kingston Road, Pickering First Pickering Place - 1550 Kingston Road, Pickering Thank you for your attention to this matter. Yours very truly RF:jm Encl. 1550 Kinostor Road,. Sui[,~; 30(~,~',,,~d,l,,l,,,.,i,,¢' ¢~n~x '( i ! ~" i'*'', ~'eh f905 S39-0000 *- .... ¢°¢'~5' 83¢,-53~2' r~¢~Ji~ ! ~~/ THE CORPORATION OF THE CI ,,'~ OF P[CKERING BY-LAW NO. Being a by-taw to appoint By-law Enforcement Officers for certain purposes (Parking Regulation - i467 Whites Road, 375, 1450, 1550 and 1865 Kingston Road, 1822 Whites Road, 1100 Begiey Street). WHEREAS pursuant to section 15(I) of the Police Services Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.P.15, as amended, a municipal council may appoint persons to enforce the by-laws of the municipality; and WHEREAS pursuant to section 15(2) of the said ACt, municipal by-law enforcement officers are peace officers for the purpose of enforcing municipal by-laws; NOW THEREFORE THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF PICKERING HEREBY ENACTS AS FOLLOWS: That the following persons be hereby appointed as municipal law enforcement officers in and for the City of Pickering in order to ascertain whether the provisions of By-law 2359/87 are obeyed and to enforce or carry into effect the said By-law and are hereby authorized to enter at all reasonable times upon lands municipally known as: a) b) c) d) 1822 Whites Road, 1100 Begley Street and 1865 Kingston Road: Jason Nicholson 1865 Kingston Road: Roger Wiggins Misty Thompson 375, 1450 and 1550 Kingston Road: David Crandall 1467 Whites Road, Sarah McDonalds Place: Jeffery Muzzin Richard Torraville Jerome Lecky Robert Stenton Matthew Jensen Wayne Miller Gerard Johnson Donald Downie Bill Dimkovski Russel Harwood Amanda Reardon Koste Hristov John Cunningham Kevin Hoover Steve Dimkovski Eric Assels Robert Stenton Paul Smith Edward Haehnel William Brulotte Amanda McFarling Steven Schleret The authority granted in section 1 hereto is specifically limited to that set out in section I, and shall not be deemed, at any time, to exceed the authority set out in section !. These appointments shall expire upon the persons iisted in section "I¢a) and ceasing to be employees of Securitas Canada or upon Secud~a~'Canada ceasin9 to be an agent for 1822 Whites Road, 1100 'Begiey Street or 1865 Kingston Road, or upon the persons listed in section 1(c) ceasing to be an employee of Squareco Properties Inc. or upon Squareco Properties inc. ceasing to be an agent for 375, 1450 or 1550 Kingston Road, or upon persons listed in section l(d) ceasing to be employees of Knights On Guard, or upon Knights On Guard ceasing to be an agent for 1467 Whites Road - Sarah McDonalds Place, or upon whichever shall occur first. BY-LAW read a first, second and third time and finally passed this 1st day of March, 2004. David Ryan, Mayor Bruce Taylor, Clerk 117 RECOMMENDATION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DATE MOVED BY SECONDED BY That Mayor Ryan be authorized to make the following proclamation: "Easter Seals Month"- March, 2004 "Day of Mourning" - April 28, 2004 "Realtor's Month"- May, 2004 118 HELPING KIDS WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES SUCCEED January l2,2004 Mr. Dave Ryan Mayor, City of Picketing 1 The Esplanade Picketing, ON L1V 6K7 R v ED CITY OF ,.-.~xEFtlNG MARCH is Easter Seals Month Dear Mayor Ryan, During March, Easter Seals has a fundraising and awareness campaign called March is Easter Seals Montl~ featuring events and programs in local communities. The generous support from community members will help Easter Seals fund necessary equipment; provide summer camping and recreational experiences, government relations, research and public and consumer education. We are requesting your help in raising awareness for kids with physical disabilities living in your area and across Ontario. We would be grateful if you would consider declaring Matrh is Easter Seals Month with a proclamation and presentation at an official or informal meeting in late February or early March. As a thank you for your proclamation, we would like to honour your support publicly by presenting the official 2004 'Easter Seal.' This presentation continues a long-standing tradition where local Easter Seals ambassadors present the annual seal to dignitaries in their community. Thank you for taking the time to consider declaring March is Easter Seals Month. We hope our local children will have the honour of thanking you in person. I will contact your office shortly to discuss this oppornmity and a possible date, time and location; however should you have any questions, please contact me at the number below. Sincerely, Deborah Clark, Durham District Manager 905 571-2528 The Easter Seal Society, Durham 452 - 701 Rossland Road, Whitby, ON L1N 9K3 Tel: 905 571-2528 Fax: 905 725-4812 Toll Free 1-888-514-9138 Email: dclarlff~_~easterseals.orffWeb: www. easterseals.orff !19 PROCLAMATION March is Easter Seals Month WHEREAS: WHEREAS: WHEREAS: WHEREAS: WHEREAS: WHEREAS: NOW THEREFORE: The Easter Seal Society of Ontario is dedicated to helping children, youth and young adults with physical disabilities. Easter Seals helps over 8,000 families of kids with physical disabilities to purchase necessary equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, braces, and communication aids. Through the More Choices for More Kids vision, Easter Seals provides recreational experiences at Easter Seals camps, and funding of recreational choices such as day camps, swimming and art classes. Easter Seals' mission includes government relations, research and public and consumer education on behalf of kids with physical disabilities. Easter Seals has developed a province-wide network of community-based volunteer groups called district councils. These councils represent the community, consisting of Easter Seals' parents, volunteers, donors, teachers, medical representatives and other community members. March is Easter Seals Month is a fundraising and awareness campaign for kids with physical disabilities. During March, communities across the province fundraise and create awareness through events such as the Easter Seals Telethon, and Snowaramas and programs such as Paper Eggs. I, Dave Ryan, Mayor, City of Picketing, do hereby proclaim the month of March 2004 as Easter Seals Month and encourage everyone to support Easter Seals during its fundraising and awareness campaign. DURHAM REGION LABOUR COUNCIL P.O. Box 946, Oshawa, Ontario L1H 7N1 Phone: (905) 579-5188 Fax: (905) 579-3634 E-Mail: durhamlc~sympatico, ca February 2, 2004 Mayor David Ryan City of Pickering 1 The Esplanade Pickering ON L1V 6K7 Dear Mayor Ryan: On Wednesday, April 28, 2004, the Durham Region Labour Council will be observing the Day of Mourning at Oshawa City Hall with our ceremony starting at Noon, lowering of the flag at Civic Square and laying of wreaths at the Day of Mourning Monument. The Day of Mourning was officially recognized by the Ontario Provincial Legislature in 1988. In 1991, An Act Respecting a Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace passed through all stages of the House of Commons and the Senate. The Bill which now proclaims April 28th of each year as a National Day of Mourning received Royal Assent on February 1, 1991 and is now law. The Day of Mourning is also officially recognized in many countries throughout the world. We ask that your municipality join with us in paying respect to those working people who have died at the workplace, or suffered injuries and diseases on the job by passing a resolution proclaiming Wednesday, April 28, 2004 as "Day of Mourning". We also request that flags be lowered, where possible, on Municipal Buildings in honour and remembrance of those killed at the workplace. While we mourn the dead, we must dedicate ourselves to fight for the living and prevent this terrible and unnecessary toll by ensuring that our governments constantly review and enforce health and safety regulations, all workplaces adhere to health and safety regulations and that all workers are regularly trained in all health and safety aspects of their workplace. Thank you for your consideration of proclaiming April 28, 2004 as "Day of Mourning." Yours truly, /' Joe Hand, Chair Day of Mourning Committee Durham Region Labour Council JH/Im cc: Clerk of Municipality ! 2I DURHAM REGION REAL ESTATE BOARD 50 RICHMO~ STREET EAST, L~IT 14 OSHAWA, ONTARIO L1G 7C7 TEL: 905-723-8184 F~; 905-723-7531 January 30, 2004 Mayor David Ryan, Town of Pickering. Pickering Civic Complex, One the Esplanade,. Pickering, Ontario L1V 6K7 RECEIVED CITY OF Pt,,NERING CLERK'S OtVISION E-MAIL: drreb @~rham2ealestate.org WEB PAGE: vavw. durhamrealestate.org SERVING D REGION MEMBERS OF: THE CANADIAN RFAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION & THE ONT~.IO ~ ESTATE Dear Mayor Ryan: 2004 is a very momentous year for the Durham Region Real Estate Board as it is our 50th Anniversary. For 50 years we have been providing our membership with the tools, education and various services needed to run a successful real estate business in Durham Region. In celebration of this anniversary, as well as in celebration of our 670 hard working and dedicated Realtor members, we would like to request that council declare the month of May, 2004 as "Realtor's Month". It is our hope that you will give this request serious consideration. We look forward to your positive response. Yours sincerely, DURHAM REGION R~..._, ESTATE BOARD' B. Cail Maclean Executive Officer