HomeMy WebLinkAboutPD 11-09
Citlf IJ~
REPORT TO
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE
~ t! I
65
Report Number: PD 11-09
Date: February 2, 2009
From:
Neil Carroll
Director, Planning & Development
Subject:
Final Rouge River Watershed Plan
Comments on Rouge River Watershed Plan: Towards a Healthy and
Sustainable Future and Implementation Guide, prepared by the Toronto
and Region Conservation Authority
Recommendation:
1. That Report PD 11-09 of the Director, Planning & Development regarding the
Final Rouge River Watershed Plan, be received;
2. That the Final Rouge River Watershed Plan: Towards a Healthy and Sustainable
Future and Implementation Guide, be received; and
3. Further, that City staff be authorized to work with the Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority (TRCA) to implement the recommendations of the Rouge
River Watershed Plan, appropriate to the City of Pickering.
Executive Summary: On January 28, 2008, Council adopted, in principle, the
proposed strategies, management philosophy and implementation recommendations
set out in the "Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft" (see Report PD 03-08,
Attachment #1).
The "Final" Rouge River Watershed Plan is almost the same as the previously
endorsed "Final Draft" (only editorial changes have been made). The TRCA has
forwarded its resolution A 42/08, in regard to the Final Rouge River Watershed Plan.
Part of the resolution requests municipalities within the watershed plan to adopt the
plan and commit to work with the TRCA to implement the recommendations appropriate
to their municipality (see letter, Attachment #2).
The TRCA directed staff to work with watershed municipalities and other partners to:
. develop five year workplans and budgets for top priority projects identified in
the Rouge Watershed Plan Implementation Guide;
. host an annual multi-stakeholder forum beginning in 2009;
. report on the progress in implementation of the Rouge River Watershed
Plan; and
Report PO 11-09
February 2, 2009
Subject: Rouge River Watershed Plan
Page 2
Ii I 66
.
· convene up to three additional meetings per year with municipal staff and
other stakeholder to input into the annual design and follow-up.
Only a small portion of the Rouge watershed falls within Pickering and the opportunities
are limited for actions and initiatives in Pickering to have significant effect on the health
of the watershed. However the Final Rouge River Watershed Plan provides a strong
basis for protection of the Rouge Park and fulfills the watershed requirements of the
Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. The annual multi-stakeholders forum to track
implementation progress will provide a clear understanding of the progress and success
of the watershed plan.
It is recommended that Council receive the Final Rouge River Watershed Plan and
authorize staff to continue to work with the TRCA to implement the recommendations of
the Plan, appropriate to the City of Pickering.
Financial Implications: No direct costs to the City are anticipated as a result of
endorsing the recommendations of Report PO 11-09. Further implementation will
involve indirect costs for such matters as staff time. If a future implementation initiative
has financial implications for City, the cost would be brought forward for Council's
consideration through the budget process.
Sustainability Implications: The Rouge River Watershed Plan and Implementation
Guide are valuable resources in achieving a healthy environment in the Rouge
watershed. They propose a set of policies and implementation measures to maintain
and improve the current healthy state of the watershed.
The Rouge River Watershed Plan is the most recent watershed plan completed by
TRCA and includes state-of-the-art modelling of scenarios for sustainable communities
and the effects of climate change that were not included in the previously prepared
Ouffins and Carruthers Watershed Plans. Transferring the knowledge gained in these
scenarios will be invaluable in the preparation of plans and reports for Seaton and
northeast Pickering in order to guarantee the overall success and long-term
sustainability of the Ouffins and Carruthers Watersheds.
1.0 Background:
1.1 The Rouge River Watershed Plan towards a Healthy and Sustainable Future
was prepared by a multi-stakeholder task force to provide effective guidance for
the protection and enhancement of the Rouge River Watershed.
The watershed plan is intended to inform and guide municipalities, provincial
and federal governments and the TRCA as they update their policies and
Report PO 11-09
February 2, 2009
Subject: Rouge River Watershed Plan
:!l I 67
Page 3
programs for environmental protection, conservation, and restoration within the
context of land and water use, and the planning of future urban growth.
1.2 The TRCA has forwarded a copy of the approved Rouge River Watershed Plan
and the executive summary of the plan (see Attachment #3). The Rouge River
State of the Watershed Report, Rouge River Watershed Scenario Modelling
and Analysis Report, Action Plan for Sustainable Practices and Rouge River
Watershed Plan Implementation Guide were also forwarded for reference.
Copies of these documents are available for viewing at the Planning &
Development Department counter and are also posted on the TRCA web site
for public reference and consultation purposes.
2.0 Discussion
2.1 Except for some minor editorial changes, the Final Rouge River Watershed
Plan remains the same as the Final Draft that was received by Council in
January 2008. In commenting on the Final Draft, although only a small portion
of the land area of Pickering is located within the Rouge River Watershed, the
City supported the proposed management philosophy and general strategies of
the Rouge River Watershed Plan as a sustainable initiative.
2.2 The Rouge River Watershed Plan and the watershed planning documents fulfill
the watershed planning requirements of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation
Plan. Any major development proposal on the Oak Ridges Moraine in the
Rouge watershed must confirm to the Rouge River Watershed Plan.
2.3 The Rouge River Watershed Plan continues to provide for the implementation
of transportation and other infrastructure within and crossing the Rouge
watershed. The Final Rouge River Watershed Plan also provides direction for
implementing required infrastructure in a sustainable manner. It calls for new
and innovative engineering and planning approaches, retrofit and regeneration
projects, improved operations and maintenance programs, stewardship/education,
and monitoring initiatives.
2.4 The Rouge watershed provides the foundation for a significant, inter-connected
regional open space system including Rouge Park and regional trails,
conservation areas and major municipal parks. This system requires further
development to reach its potential to provide nature based recreation
experiences for a growing population, support for healthy communities,
interpretation of natural and cultural heritage, and linkages with local
neighbourhood and connections to surrounding watersheds.
2.5 Creating trails from Pickering that link with the open space system in the Rouge
watershed will give City residents additional recreational opportunities. However
a long-term funding strategy is required to implement an inter-regional trail
network in the Rouge and adjacent watersheds.
Report PD 11-09
February 2, 2009
Subject: Rouge River Watershed Plan
Page 4
68
2.6 In general, the implementation strategies for the Rouge watershed apply
equally to the other watersheds in Pickering. Staff from Municipal Property &
Engineering has identified a number of implementation strategies relevant to
their Division's responsibilities (see Memorandum, Attachment #4). Many of the
other strategies deal with creating sustainable communities.
3.0 Next Steps
3.1 The Rouge River Watershed Plan requires the TRCA to work with watershed
municipalities and other partners to develop five year workplans and budgets
for top priority projects identified in the Rouge River Plan Implementation Guide
and incorporate them into the annual capital budget process. Staff will
participate with the TRCA and prepare a detailed work plan for implementation
of those actions relevant to Pickering. Should any of these actions have
financial implications for Pickering, City staff will bring the matter forward for
Council's consideration through the City's budget process.
3.2 The TRCA will host an annual multi-stakeholder forum, beginning in 2009 to
report on progress in implementation of the Plan. The TRCA will also convene
up to three additional meetings per year with municipal staff to have input to the
annual forum design and follow up. The City of Pickering will continue to
participate and provide appropriate input.
3.3 As noted in previous Report PD 03-08 the objectives and requirements of the
watershed plan are to be incorporated into the municipality's official plan.
Accordingly, through the Pickering Official Plan Review, the City's Plan will be
amended to recognize this and other watershed plans (e.g. Duffins, Carruthers
and Lynde).
Attachments:
1. Text of Report PD 03-08 and maps 1 and 2
2. The TRCA letter dated October 14, 2008, containing Resolution # A 42/08
3. Executive summary of the Rouge River Watershed Plan & Introduction to
Implementation Guide
4. Memorandum from City's Stormwater & Environmental Engineer
Report PO 11-09
February 2, 2009
Subject: Rouge River Watershed Plan
I I! I h ()
~7
Page 5
Prepared By:
Approved/Endorsed By:
Je-epqf<.- g,!'a>r!
Oeepak Bhatt, MCIP, RPP
Planner II
Catherine Rose, MCI ,
Manager of Policy
DB: cs
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City/"")Council
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i._-
II-OCt
REP RT TO
PLANNING & DEVELO MENT
COMMITTEE
Report Number: PO 03-08
Date: Januarj 7,2008
70
From:
Neil Carrol!
Director, Planning & Development
Subject:
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft
Report of the Rouge Watershed Task Force 2007
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
Recommendation:
1. That Report PD 03-08 of the Director, Planning & Development regarding the
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft, be received;
2. That the Final Draft "Rouge River Watershed Plan - Towards a Healthy and
Sustainable Future" of the Rouge Watershed Task Force be received;
3. That Council support in principle the proposed strategies, management
philosophy and implementation recommendations set out in the "Rouge River
Watershed Plan";
4. That Council authorize staff to work with staff of Toronto Region Conservation
Authority (TRCA), Rouge Park, the Region of Durham and other municipalities,
residents and stakeholdei's, as appropriate, to support the proposed
implementation measures, including considering participation in the anticipated
Rouge Ri'/er Implementation Committee;
5. That Council request staff to include appropriate policies to recognize the
Rouge River Watershed Plan in the Pickering Official Plan through the City's
Official Plan Review; and
6. Further, that a copy of Report PO 03-08, along with Council's recommendation
thereon, be forwarded to TRCA, the Region of York, the Town of Markham, the
City of Toronto, the lown of Richmond Hill, the Town of \Nhitchurch-Stouffville
and the Region of Durham for information.
Executive Summary: The Rouge River Watershed Plan is the draft report of the
Rouge Watershed Task Force, resulting from 8 2 ~ year process. The Task Force,
coordinated by the TRCA and Rouge Park Alliance, comprises elected and appointed
members from the seven watershed municip~lities, environmental groups and other
interested people. The Task Force had strong TRCA staff suppori, state-of-the-art
scientific analysis, municipal staff support and extensive public and industry
consultation.
Report PO 03-C8
AnACHMENT l_~-lP\TO
REPORt , PD ~ \
Januarj 7, 2008
Subject: Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft
'7 1
i II .
Page 2
The Rouge River watershed is still relatively undeveloped with the Rouge Park located
at the south end, urban development occupying most of the mid-reaches and mainly
undeveloped lands in the upper reaches of the watershed, Although currently healthy,
the Rouge River watershed is now showing signs of stress due to the effects of urban
development. In light of these signs, the Rouge River Watershed Plan recommends a
comprehensive set of strategies to address the negative impacts of existing
development and promote sustainable development practices for future development.
The proposed strategies identified in the Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft fall
into three broad themes: establishment of a targeted terrestrial natural heritage system;
sustainable approaches to 'further urban development (including infrastructure,
transportation and resource use); and recognition and development of a regional open
space system. The Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft includes goals, principles,
objectives, specific targets and 137 implementation recommendations that address a
broad range of environmental protection issues.
Only a small fraction of the Rouge watershed falls within Pickering (see Map 1) and the
opportunities are limited for actions and initiatives in Pickering to have significant effect
on the health of the watershed. However, the Rouge Park is a significant public asset
that should be protected, Accordingly, it is recommended the City support, in principle,
the findings and recommendations of the Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft.
Appropriate policies can be implemented in the City's Official Plan to recognize this
Watershed Plan through the Pickering Official Plan Review.
Financial Implications: None Applicable
Sustainability Implications: This Watershed Plan is a valuable resource in achieving
a healthy environment in the Rouge watershed. It presents a broad-based evaluation
of the existing state of the lands and waters comprising the watershed of the
Rouge River and proposes a set of policies and implementation measures to maintain
and improve the current healthy state of the watershed.
The Plan recognizes the importance of implementing sustainable urban form,
infrastructure and transportation in the newly developing areas of the watershed. The
Plan further advances methods to include the residents, businesses and employees to
participate as stewards of the watershed to assist in maintaining the Rouge watershed
in a healthy condition into the future. It also includes strategies to involve all sectors of
the economy and society in its universal approach to sustainability at the local level of
the Rouge River watershed.
~:eport I:JD 03-C8
TTf\CHMENT it___ J TO
HEPORl , PO II - 0 ~..
Janua"y 7 2008
Subject: Rouge River VVatershed Plan - Final Draft
Page 3 .
72
1 0 Background:
1.1 The health of the Rouge River watershed is currently at a crossroads with
alternate directions to either allow the growing environmental degradation
to continue or select a new pathway to a healthy watershed.
Since its commencement in earry 2004, the Rouge Watershed Task Force has
conducted extensive scientific studies, ground breaking modelling and empirical
social science research to produce a set of strategies to maintain the
sustainability of groundwater, surface water, stream form, aquatic system,
terrestrial system, air quality, climate change, cultural heritage, nature-ba-sed
recreation, sustainable land and resource use systems.
Through the studies and Task Force discussions, the conclusion was reached
that the Rouge River watershed is currently at a crossroads, with pressures for
continued 'unsustainable' development leading to the tipping point of irreversible.
degradation to the environment or an opportunity to "do the right thing" by
applying sustainable standards to new buildings, infrastructure, transportation,
energy and water management projects to support healthy natural communities
and a higher quality of life.
A copy of the letter from TRCA requesting comments on the Final Draft Rouge
Watershed Plan and the Executive Summary from the Plan are provided as
Attachments #1 and #2.
2.0 Discussion
2.1 Although only a small portion of the land area of PickNing is locatGd within
the Rou{:j& River watershed, the City should support ~he proposed
management philosophy and general strategies of the Houg('? Hiver
Watershed Plan - Final Draft as a sustainable initiative.
Most of the Rouge River watershed lies in the Town of Markham (see Map 1:
Rouge River Watershed). The part that lies in Pickering is located downstream
in the watershed along the western boundary of Pickering between Lake Ontario
and Twyn Rivers Drive (see Map 2: Rouge River Watershed lands in the City of
Pickering). In Pickering, the Rouge watershed lands lying outside of the valley of
the Rouge River and Little Rouge Creek are already developed for urban uses.
The watershed plan provides broad genera! direction through its overall goal, or
management philosophy:
"To work towards a healthy and sustainable Rouge watershed by
protecting, restoring and enhancing its ecological and cultural integrity
within the context of a regional natural heritage system."
Report PC J3-08
l\TT~CHMENT. 1_ ~" . TO
qEPORT I PD. ~1J"!l:..
Jar'uary 7, 20G8
Subject: Rouge River VVatershed Plan "- Final Draft
Page 4
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The study found signs that harmful changes were exceeding the carrying
capacity of the natural systems. Modelling studies of different potential
management scenarios revealed that best development practices and
management techniques could maintain and in some cases enhance current
conditions with new sustainable development practices, continued evaluation
and assessment in order to achieve watershed, objectives and targets with
adjustments where necessary.
It was concluded that the pathway to a .healthy watershed should be based on
strategies to protect and enhance valued resources, regenerate damaged
systems and build more sustainable communities. The strategies focus on three
themes:
1. Establishing the targeted natural heritage system in the watershed by
protecting valued assets, securing additional lands, regenerating
degraded areas and improving stewardship of public and private lands;
2. Suilding sustainable communities by taking key steps to reduce
imperviousness, maintain/restore water balance, facilitate energy
conservation, reduce vehicle use and protect cultural heritage
features; and,
3. Recognizing and developing a regional open space system' offering
recreational opportunities based on Rouge Park with connections to
regional trails, conservation areas and major municipal parks.
Since the portion of the watershed within Pickering is such a small part of the
overall watershed and the lands in Pickering are either developed with existing
communities or are already part of Rouge Park, opportunities to have a major
impact on the Rouge River watershed through implementation of the
recommended changes are relatively minor. Nevertheless, the City of Pickering
should support, in principle, the Rouge River Watershed Plan - Final Draft as it
furthers sustainability in the watershed.
2.2 The City should also participate in the subsequent implementation and
monitoring strategies for the Rouge River watershed.
The Draft Plan provides general directions and strategies as well as a list of 137
recommended actions to be undertaken by TRCA, sen'ior governments,
municipalities, Rouge Park and other partner agencies, the private sector and
the public. They will be informed, engaged and motivated to participate in new
directions to lead to a future with healthy natural systems, a rich natural and
cultural heritage supporting a higher quality of life for the communities of the
Rouge River watershed.
It is also proposed that a Rouge River Implementation Committee be established
to guide implementation of the Plan on an ongoing basis. Key Watershed
stakeholders will be invited to participate. At the time the Committee is being
established, the City can consider its participation, given staff resources.
');::''-''011 PD. 03J.8
.,'..../"' 1. ',.;
!y,CHMENT i' .L"".TO
IiEI-'ORi I PD__IL-_OC(
Januarj 7, 2008
Subject: ROGge River VVatershed Plan - Final Draft
Page 5
. i' I
74
One of the implen 2rtaticn strategies is providing appropriate policy support in
municipal official plans. As part of the Pickerinu Official Plan Review, the City
has already identified the need to address the Duffins and Carruthers Watershed
Plan. Staff will now add the Rouge River Watershed Plan to this process.
Attachments:
1. Letter from TRCA requesting comments, dated November 6, 2007
2. Executive Summary to Rouge Park Watershed Plan - Final Draft
Maps:
1. Map 1: Rouge River Watershed
2. Map 2: Rouge River Watershed lands in Pickering
Prepared By:
. Approved I Endorsed By:
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Steve Gaunt, MCIP, RPP
Senior Planner
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Manager, Policy
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Neil C -. CIP, RPP
Director, Planning 81 De3velopment
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Attachments
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
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Map 2: Rouge River Watershed lands in the City of Pickering'
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rlPAENT
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TORONTO AND REGION ~
onservatlon
Mayor David Ryan
City of Pickering
Pickering Civic Complex
One The Esplanade
Pickering, ON, L1 V 6K7
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for The Living City
October 14, 2008
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Mayor Ryan
At Authority Meeting #2/08, ofToronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), held on March 28,
2008, Resolution #A42/08, in regard to Rouge River Watershed Plan: Towards a Healthy and
Sustainable Future was approved as follows: '
THA T the Rouge River Watershed Plan: Towards a Healthy and Sustainable Future be
approved;
THA T staff be directed to work with partners to implement the plan;
THA T staff be directed to use the Rouge River State of the Watershed Report, Rouge River
Watershed Scenario Modelling and Analysis Report, Action Plan for Sustainable Practices and
Rouge River Watershed Plan Implementation Guide as reference documents to inform and
guide ongoing work and long term work planning and budget preparation;
THA T copies of the Rouge River Watershed Plan be circulated to municipalities within the
Rouge River watershed and their Councils be asked to adopt the plan and commit to work with
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to Ilnplement the recommendations
appropriate to their municipality;
THA T copies of the Rouge River Watershed Plan be circulated to the Rouge Park Alliance and
they be asked to adopt the plan and recognize it under section 3.2. 6 of the Greenbelt Plan;
THA T copies of the Rouge River Watershed Plan be circulated to the provincial and federal
governments as well as other relevant organizations and interest groups, including former
members of the Rouge Watershed Task Force, and they be asked to proVide ongoing support
for the Implementation of the principles, goals and relevant recommendations of the plan;
THA T copies of the Rouge River State of t(7e Watershed Report, Rouge River Watershed
Scenario Modelling and Analysis Report, Action Plan for Sustainable Practices and Rouge
River Watershed Plan Implementation GUIde be circulated to watershed municipalities and
made available to other partner organizations and they be encouraged to use these reference
documents to inform and guide their ongoing work;
THA T copies of the Rouge River Watershed Plan be circulated to local libraries <'!n..d cOl?ies q(
the plan and all supporting documents be posted on the TRGA web site; . '.. .
THA T staff be directed to work with watershed municipalities and other liiirtr/drsYO' de'l;;e~6IiWv~_':~
year work plans and budgets for top prionty projects Identified in the RoJg.J:wj;j/gs~{!d:f!!E[fi~:;'::"'i i
Implementation Guide and incorporate them into the annual capital budget process;
Member of Conservation Ontario
m.""""',
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5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 154 (416) 661-6600 FAX 661-6898 www.trca.on.ca
,! I
78
4TTACHMENl ~ ~TO
1EPOR11 PO. - ."-
THA T the revised Conformily Assessment for the Rouge River Watershed Plan in Attachment 4
and the watershed planning documents referenced in the conformily assessment be deemed
to fulfil the watershed planning requirements of the Oak RIdges Moraine Conservation Plan
(ORMCP; 2002) and be approved for use in the review of major development proposals on the
Oak Ridges Moraine and that the regional and local municipalities, province and Conservation
Authorilies Moraine Coalition (CAMC) be so advised;
THA T staff meet wilh representatives of the Aboriginal commumly to discuss the Rouge River
Watershed Plan and ways they wish to be involved in lis implementation;
THA T staff be directed to host an annual multi-stakeholder forum, beginning in 2009, to report
on progress in implementation of the Rouge River Watershed Plan, and report back to the
Authority on the results of the forum;
AND FURTHER THA T staff convene up to 3 additional meetings per year wllh municipal staff
and other stakeholder representatives from the Rouge watershed, and in conjunction with other
watershed groups where appropriate, to have input to the annual forum design and follow-up.
Enclosed, please find a copy of the approved Rouge River Watershed Plan: Towards a Healthy and
Sustainable Future and an Executive Summary booklet containing a CD ROM with digital copies of the
plan and all supporting documents. Additional copies of this publication are available upon request or
can be downloaded from the TRCA web site (www.trca.on.ca).
We look forward to working with you on the implementation of this watershed plan. If you have any
questions or require additional information, please contact Sonya Meek at (416) 661-6600 ext. 5253
(smeek(ci?trca.on.ca) or Sylvia Waters at (416) 661-6600 ext. 5330 (swaters(a)trca.on.ca ).
Sincerely,
.~ /-fJ~1
Brian Denney
CAO
lEnd.
n ;'[~HMENT'3-n TO
KEPORl , PO_.,,1L:-iJQ .
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ROUGE RIVER
WATERSHED PLAN
TOWARDS A HEALTHY AND
SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
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Rouge Park
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for The Living City
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Rouge River watershed is an extraordinary resource in Southern Ontario, treasured and
enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. It spans 336 km2 ofland and water in the Regions of
York and Durham, Cities of Toronto and Pickering, and Towns of Markham, Richmond Hill and
Whitchurch StouffVille. It includes all the lands that drain to the Rouge River and its tributaries,
including the Little Rouge River, starting in the hills of the Oak Ridges Moraine and flowing south
to Lake Ontario (see Figure 1-1; reprinted here as Appendix 1).
Why do we need this watershed plan? If you live, work or play in the Rouge River watershed, you
depend on its health in a number of ways. The Rouge watershed is a source of your drinking water
- whether you rely on wells or water from Lake Ontario. Unpaved land absorbs water from rain and
snowfall to replenish groundwater and streams and reduce the negative impacts of flooding and
erosion. Healthy aquatic and terrestrial habitats support diverse communities of plants and animals.
Agricultural lands provide local sources of food and green spaces provide recreation opportunities.
A rich human heritage affords links to the past that enrich and inform our lives today. The natural
beauty of the forests, meadows, farmlands, wetlands, rivers and creeks provides urban dwellers with
solace, renewal and contact with nature.
Increasing concerns about the health of our cities and countryside, the safety of our drinking
water and the future of the Oak Ridges Moraine have lead to a number of initiatives towards
sustainable living in Ontario, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and the Great Lakes Region. Actions
taken in the Rouge watershed can provide a model for actions in other watersheds, as well as
influence the environmental health of larger systems.
What is the role of the watershed plan? Specifically, the watershed plan is intended to inform
and guide municipalities, provincial and federal governments, TRCA, Rouge Park, non-government
organizations and private landowners as they update their policies and practices for environmental
stewardship.
This watershed plan was prepared by a multi-stakeholder task force that includes representatives
from all levels of government agencies, private businesses, not-for-profit organizations and the public
and was coordinated by TRCA and Rouge Park (see Appendix C; reprinted here as Appendix 2). The plan
has a strong technical foundation, based on decades of monitoring of environmental conditions
combined with a leading edge approach to modelling of potential future conditions. A series of
management summits was held to convene experts who could help identifY best practices and
recommendations to achieve the objectives of the Rouge Watershed Task Force.
The guiding framework for this watershed plan comprises an overall goal, a set of principles, nine.
goals and 22 objectives with specific targets. Our overall goal is:
To work towards a healthy and sustainable Rouge watershed by protecting, restoring and enhancing its
ecological and cultural integrity within the context of a regional natural heritage system.
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary 2
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81
Our goals, objectives and targets address:
. Groundwater
· Surface water
. Stream form
. Aquatic system
. Terrestrial system
· Air quality and c'imate change
. Cultural heritage
. Nature-based recreation
. Sustainable land and resource use (see Appendix 3 - Guiding Framework of Principles) Goals and
Objectives).
One of the foundations of this plan is the Rouge River State of the Watershed Report, which provides
a wealth of recent information about natural and cultural resources and human activities in the
watershed. Land use in the Rouge watershed today is approximately 40% rural, 35% urban, 24% natural
cover and 1% open water. The lower watershed is dominated by Rouge Park, with a small but well
established area of urban development to the west. The middle and western parts are experiencing
rapid urban expansion and have sparse natural cover except in Rouge Park. The upper and eastern
portions of the watershed are primarily rural and agricultural with some small towns and villages.
The Rouge watershed represents a rich inheritance for current and future communities. The
Little Rouge River watershed is still relatively undeveloped with considerable natural cover and a
water balance typical of a rural watershed. The aquatic systems in the upper Little Rouge and parts
of the Main Rouge are healthy enough to support cold- and cool-water communities including
species of concern such as redside dace and brook trout. Natural habitats support a high diversity
of plants and animals, including many that are rare or at risk (such as the nationally threatened
Jefferson salamander, provincially significant Cooper's hawk and regionally rare one flower cancer-
root). Major blocks of publicly owned lands have been reserved for conservation and greens pace
purposes, most notably the 41 square kilometre Rouge Park. The Rouge watershed also has a rich
cultural heritage, including many archaeological and historic sites, landscapes, stories and artifacts
from earlier inhabitants as well as the diverse cultures of present day communities.
Unfortunately, there are signs of stress. Decades of urban development have resulted in harmful
changes that exceed the carrying capacity of natural systems. These changes include increased
surface runoff, more water pollution, greater annual flow volumes in rivers and streams, increased
erosion and sedimentation, channel instability, loss of biodiversity, and greater incidence of smog.
They are signs that the ability of the air, land and water to absorb the negative impacts of human
act~vities is strained and cannot be sustained over the long term unless fundamental changes are
made. Rehabilitation of infrastructure and restoration of natural habitats to address these issues is
underway, but these measures are expensive and time consuming.
To help us understand how the watershed might react to changes in land use, environmental
management and climate in the future, we undertook a multi-faceted process of analysis and
3 Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary
82
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synthesis. This included modelling studies to compare eight potential scenarios, as documented
in our Scenario Modelling and Analysis Report. The results of this work were combined with an
,examination of existing conditions and trends in the watershed, a review of watershed research in
other areas, and the best professional judgement of a range of experts in many fields.
What can we expect in future? We discovered that if future development proceeds with current
approaches to community design and stormwater management, it will not be possible to maintain
current watershed conditions, let alone improve them. If development practices are changed to
use the best foreseeable community designs and management techniques, it may be possible to
maintain and in some cases enhance current conditions (see Figure 4-2; reprinted here as Appendix 4).
However many of the new designs and technologies for sustainable urban development are still
evolving and being tested so we recommend that where permitted, development should proceed
with caution. Evaluation should be undertaken, with extensive and meaningful public consultation,
to assess how well watershed objectives and targets are being met and recommend adjustments to
development practices when necessary.
Fortunately, the Rouge watershed offers many unique opportunities, including the assembly
and renaturalization of lands as part of Rouge Park and the continuation of agriculture on public
and private lands. Watershed municipalities are already working to address the negative impacts
of existing developments and are among the leaders in promoting sustainable practices. These
opportunities provide valuable tools to help address concerns with current watershed conditions,
manage impacts from future land use changes and adapt to the uncertainties associated with global
climate change.
The pathway to a healthy watershed that emerged from this analysis is based on a comprehensive
and inter-dependent set of strategies that will protect and enhance valued resources, regenerate
damaged systems, and build more sustainable communities (see Appendix 5). These strategies
encompass three broad themes:
1. Establish the targeted terrestrial natural heritage system: Figure 5-2 (reprinted here as
Appendix 6) illustrates an expanded natural heritage system that provides multiple benefits,
including biodiversity and habitats, water balance maintenance and restoration, opportunities
for nature-based recreation, improved quality oflife, and greater resilience to urban growth and
climate change. It can be accomplished by protecting existing valued assets, securing additional
lands, regenerating degraded areas and improving stewardship of public and private lands.
2. Build sustainable communities: We have identified more sustainable approaches to urban
form, infrastructure, transportation and resource use that will contribute to overall improved
quality oflife. They should be applied to new communities, as well as to the intensification
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary 4
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83
or redevelopment of existing ones. Some of the key features include reduced imperviousness,
measures to maintain or restore water balance, design features to facilitate sustainable choices (e.g.
energy conservation, reduced vehicle use, support for local agricultural products) and protection
and adaptive re-use of cultural heritage features. Development, where permitted, should proceed
at a pace and extent that allows sufficient time to adopt, test and evaluate the effectiveness of new
technologies and to make adjustments if the results do not meet our objectives and targets for
the watershed.
3. Recognize and develop a regional open space system: The Rouge watershed has the basis for
a significant, inter-connected regional open space system including Rouge Park and regional
trails, conservation areas and major municipal parks. We recommend that this system be
further developed to reach its potential to provide nature-based recreation experiences for a
growing population, support for healthy communities, interpretation of natural and cultural
heritage, linkages with local neighbourhoods and connections to surrounding watersheds.
An important prerequisite for action will be to increase awareness among watershed
residents, businesses, developers and agencies of the importance of the watershed, its water cycles,
natural systems and cultural heritage. We recommend a long-term outreach program to provide
information and understanding, explain how people can act on this knowle.dge, and inspire action.
Our social marketing study, Action Plan for Sustainable Practices, showed that there is a modest basis
of understanding and support for sustainability, but the public needs more specific information,
marketing campaigns and assistance to inspire action. It also highlighted a number of issues that
reduce opportunities for businesses to adopt sustainable practices, therefore we plan to remove
barriers and provide incentives for the business community.
The coordinated efforts of government agencies and community leaders are also crucial to
the success of this watershed plan. They have many complementary tools available, including plans
and policies, permits and regulations, enforcement, infrastructure operations and maintenance,
stewardship and regeneration programs, and education and awareness initiatives. More details
about how these existing tools can be used to help implement the watershed plan are provided in
the Implementation Guide. (see Appendix 7).
We are standing at a crossroads. In one direction lies a future modelled on the past, with
continued losses of environmental quality, biodiversity and cultural heritage along with
considerable costs to address the health, social and economic consequences of degraded
environmental conditions. In the other direction is a future with healthy natural systems and a rich
natural and cultural heritage, supporting a higher quality oflife for our communities. This plan
outlines the key steps to achieve the best possible future for ourselves and our grandchildren. We
hope you will support it and become a partner in its implementation.
5 Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary
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APPENDIX 1
Rouge River Watershed General Map
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Key Facts
*336 km2 watershed size,
including 41 km2 Rouge Park
*40% agriculture
*35% urban
*24% forestlwetland/meadow
*1 % watercourseslwaterbodies
,+,
s
Legend
D Subwatershed Planning Unit
__ Municipal Boundary
Watercourse
_ Pondllake
DORM Boundary
D Greenbelt Boundary
.. Golf Course
Rural Area
Urban Area
_ Natural Cover
2.5 10
Kilometres
Nole: Watershed boundary delineated from 1:10,000 Ontario Base Mappng.
Boundary not approved,
2002 Land Cover Conditions interpreted from orthopholography,
Roads, ORM and Gnsenbelt boundary <!) Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2007.
Dale: October, 2007
)ConservatiOn
for The Living City
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary
6
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APPENDIX 7
85
ROUGE RIVER WATERSHED PLAN
IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK
The ,Rouge River Watershed Plan Implementation Guide was prepared to facilitate implementation of the
recommendations in the Rouge River Watershed Plan - Towards a Healthy and Sustainable Future. The
Guide organizes the watershed plan recommendations according to relevant implementation tools
and assembles additional information to inform initial action. This implementation framework is
as follows:
.
Policy;
Regeneration;
Land securement;
Stewardship and education;
Operations and maintenance;
Enforcement; and
Monitoring.
.
.
.
.
.
.
The Guide further summarizes a 10 year work plan of implementation projects, within the
context of existing programs and likely implementing partners. Like the watershed plan, the
Implementation Guide is intended to inform and guide the ongoing implementation and
development of programs and policies. The proposed projects in the workplan are meant to serve as
a basis for discussion among implementing partners and as a source for the further development of
individual partners' own long term work plan and budget preparations.
STRATEGIC WATERSHED
MANAGEMENT DIRECTION
The Rouge River Watershed Plan concludes that the watershed is at a critical crossroads in that it
continues to support many unique natural and cultural heritage values, and yet a number of present
and anticipated stresses will challenge the ability to sust'.lin this remarkable condition. The watershed
plan identifies three integral actions for the protection and enhancement of the watershed:
1. Expand Terrestrial Natural Cover
Create and enhance natural cover in a targeted terrestrial natural heritage system (TNHS).
This action is especially important in areas upstream of existing and future urban growth,
from a water management and erosion control imperative, and for parts of the target system
vulnerable to loss or impact from urban growth, from a habitat biodiversity standpoint. It will
17 Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary
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also contribute to serving the growing demand for nature-based recreation and provide greater
resilience to climate change. Land use policy, regeneration and land securement projects are
the primary implementation mechanisms to achieve this set of recommendations.
2. Build More Sustainable New Communities
and Retrofit Older Ones to Improve Their Sustainability
This direction can be achieved by improving water management and promoting more
sustainable practices overall.
a) Improve Water Management
Manage for pre-development water balance (i.e., runoff volume control and maintenance
of infiltration) by protecting natural heritage systems, naturalizing urban landscapes,
using innovative lot and conveyance level stormwater management technologies, and
rainharvesting. This set of actions is critical to water management and the associated
health of the aquatic system.
b) Promote Sustainable Practices Overall
Facilitate the use of these innovative water management approaches by promoting
improved urban form, green buildings and sustainable behaviour, and at the same time
address a broad range of other objectives for the sustainable community. Of particular
interest is the need to accelerate the shift to the adoption of more sustainable practices
- through education/ awareness, testing, and demonstrating new technologies.
A co-ordinated combination of new policies, "retrofit" type regeneration projects, improved
operations and maintenance programs, stewardship/education, and monitoring initiatives will
be necessary.
3. Recognize and Develop a Regional Open Space System
Further develop the regional open space system to support the growing population and healthy
communities by improving accessibility to trails, interpretation and celebration of natural and
cultural heritage. Distinctive urban wilderness experiences of Rouge Park and countryside
experiences are offered in the Rouge watershed. Cultural heritage features and landscapes are
increasingly playing a role in recreation (e.g., rural heritage settings, adaptive re-use of heritage
buildings). Active and participatory education programs were identified as a strategic means of
engaging the public and raising awareness of these issues and several regeneration capital works
initiatives have been identified to address this set of recommendations.
TOP PRIORITY IMPLEMENTATION PROJECTS
Drawing from a 10 year workplan of implementation projects addressing all recommendations
in the watershed plan, the Implementation Guide identifies the following list of top priority
projects. These top priority projects were selected based on consideration for their collective ability
to address the three integral actions noted above, in an expeditious and mutually supportive way.
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary 18
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87
They are not listed in any particular order. As noted above, these project concepts are meant to serve
as a basis for discussion among implementing partners and as a source for the further development
of individual partners' own long term work plan and budget preparations.
Policy and Policy Related Special Studies
1. Municipalities should work with TRCA to investigate ways to incorporate the following new policy
directions into their planning documents (see Table 1.1 in Implementation Guide for details):
a) Identify a targeted terrestrial natural heritage system, based on the system
recommended in the watershed plan, and adopt policies to protect and restore
natural cover.
b) Manage for pre-development water balance (i.e., reduce excess runoff volume, maintain
or restore natural levels of infiltration and evaporation) with particular emphasis on
areas identified as locally significant recharge.
c) Develop strategies and policies to promote sustainable urban form, including
sustainable infrastructure, transportation and resource use.
d) Conduct Master Environmental Servicing Plans (MESPs) in a subwatershed context
to establish the environmental features, functions and linkages as part of the growth
planning process.
e) Recognize the regional open space system and the distinctive natural and cultural
heritage that provides a basis for recreational experiences.
f) Conduct comprehensive flood risk assessment plans where intensification is
proposed in a flood vulnerable area and/or a Special Policy Area.
g) Support stormwater retrofits in existing developments and redevelopment projects.
h) Adopt policy to implement the Greater Golden Horseshoe Conservation Authorities'
Erosion and Sediment Control Guideline for Urban Construction and update
municipal Erosion and Sediment Control by-laws and Fill by-laws as necessary.
i) Adopt policy to recognize and implement the Rouge River Watershed Based Fisheries
Management Plan.
j) Support updated and expanded monitoring programs, including ambient
monitoring, requirements for pre-development baseline monitoring, and the promotion
and testing of new technologies and their cumulative watershed effects.
2. ORM Municipalities - recognize the Rouge River Watershed Plan in their official plans, as
required by the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP).
3. MPIR, MMAH, municipalities, TRCA, MIO, CO, BILD - should establish development
standards for sustainable community design for application tonew development proposals
or urban expansions, consistent with the special recognition in the Greenbelt Plan for the
Rouge Park and its watershed.
4. TRCA, municipalities and other approval agencies - Develop a strategy/procedure for
streamlining approvals for innovative designs.
5. TRcA, BILD, municipality - Promote a sustainable greenfield neighbourhood demonstration
project.
19 Rouge River Watershed Plan - Execurive Summary
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6. TRCA - Undertake a continuous simulation and event-based hydrologic modelling pilot
study to determine the most conservative approach to sizing SWM ponds for flood control in
future growth areas.
7. TRCA, municipalities- Undettake a scoped economic assessment of the implications of
implementing the watershed plan's integral recommendations, including valuation of
ecosystems services, preparation of a methodology for applying the net gain approach, and
development of recommendations for applying fairness and equity in implementation.
Regeneration
1. All partners - Increase natural cover: 1) in Rouge Park - implement existing restoration
plans; 2) in Whitebelt - prepare restoration implementation plans for the NHS identified in
municipal plans and co-ordinate with developers; and 3) in Headwaters - prepare restoration
implementation plans and implement prior to urban development.
2. TRCA, municipalities - Develop sustainable neighbourhood retrofit action plans.
3. TRCA, Rouge Park, municipalities - Undertake detailed planning and develop a long term
funding strategy to implement the Rouge watershed inter-regional trails network
4. TRCA, Rouge Park, Whitchurch-StouffVille - Develop a Northern Countryside recreation
strategy.
S. Ministry of Culture and partners - Establish a facility for storage of archaeological artifacts and
document collections that is accessible to researchers; secure funding for capital and operations.
Land Securement
1. TRCA and Rouge Park - update priority list for land securement within the Rouge watershed
based on the Rouge Watershed Plan's recommended priorities within the TNHS.
2. TRCA, municipalities and Rouge Park - Work with MPIR to investigate mechanisms, as may be
necessary beyond planning measures, to secure the targeted TNHS lands in the "whitebelt"
that do not have any legislated protection.
Stewardship and Education
1. TRCA and municipalities - Deliver technology transfer workshops, seminars and materials
for sustainable technologies, erosion and sediment control, and sustainable urban form.
2. TRCA, municipalities and others - Develop a co-ordinated program to accelerate
implementation oflot level retrofits by the business and residential and institutional sectors.
3. TRCA, Rouge Park, MNR, Community groups, municipalities, Co-ordinate the development of
educational materials on invasive species removal techniques and engage volunteer groups to
help in monitoring and removal.
4. Municipalities, utilities, TRCA - Develop an outreach program based on the results from the
Renewable Energy Road Map to promote the uptake of renewable energy technologies.
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary 20
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89
5. TRCA - Encourage all schools in the watershed to achieve Ontario Ecoschools Program
certification.
6. Rouge Park - Implement the Rouge Park Interpretive Plan.
7. TRCA and others - Develop a pilot project for Ontario history and archaeology seminars
for adults, featuring Rouge sites. Special attention to reaching out to new Canadians and
descendents of past peoples of the watershed as target audience.
8. TRCA, municipalities, Aboriginal groups 0 Develop a communications plan in partnership with
Aboriginal groups.
9. GTA Agricultural Action Committee - Provide profile and recognition for institution,
restaurants and businesses that feature local food selections.
Operations and Maintenance
1. Municipalities - Conduct assessments of sediment accumulation in SWM ponds and develop
a prioritized list of clean out projects.
2. Municipalities, TRCA - Develop guidelines for design and establishment of municipal
SWM facility maintenance programs, including moniroring, rehabilitation and financing
mechanisms.
3. TRCA, Town of Markham - Prepare flood emergency response plan for SPAs, including an
inventory of hazards, prioritization, and emergency response protocol.
4. TRCA - Undertake a flood risk reduction study to improve the hydraulic capacity of road and
rail crossings in flood vulnerable areas (e.&., Markham (Unionville) Special Policy Area).
5. TRCA - Track advances in the prediction of climate change and reassess local flood risks and
management measures.
Enforcement
1. Various agencies, municipalities - Develop interjurisdictional compliance protocols for
poaching (wildlife), erosion and sediment control, tree cutting, topsoil and land disturbance,
dumping, trespassing, and encroachment). Identify gaps in regulatory capability and capacity.
IdentifY options for addressing gaps. Develop resources and implementation plan.
Monitoring
1. TRCA and partners - Identify technologies that show promise and monitor their performance
using Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program (STEP) - i.e. Rainwater collection
and re-use, permeable pavement, groundwater and soil contamination risk with infiltration
technologies, and long term performance and maintenance costs of any green technology.
2. TRCA and partners - Launch cumulative effects monitoring program for innovative
development design.
3. TRCA, municipalities- Review recommendations for additional monitoring in the Rouge
21 Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary
90
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watershed as part of the 5 year review and update of the Regional Watershed Monitoring
Network (RWMN). Priorities include specific recommendations for additional monitoring of
"Precipitation, stream flow, fluvial geomorphology, groundwater, and aquatic systems.
4. Volunteers, TRCA - Develop a volunteer based detection program for aquatic invasive
species (i.e., Round goby, rusty crayfish). See also stewardship section re terrestrial invasive alien
specIes.
S. Municipalities - Develop and implement a program to monitor trail use and participation
rates in other related recreational activities.
ORMCP Conformity Assessment
As the approved watershed plan fulfills a legislative requirement of the provincial Oak Ridges
MoraineConservation Plan (ORMCP, 2002), the Implementation Guide contains a table summarizing
an assessment of how the watershed plan and its supporting documents conform to these
requirements. This conformity assessment table is intended to assist municipal staff in the review
of major development proposals on the Oak Ridges Moraine in the Rouge River watershed.
Tracking Progress
TRCA is proposing to convene an annual multi-stakeholder forum to report on progress at
implementing the watershed plan and update priorities for the coming year. Meetings will be held
with municipal staff and other key stakeholders 2-3 times per year to plan and discuss follow up
from the forum. Particular attention will be given to the status of top priority implementation
projects set out in the workplan. Changes and trends in the watershed conditisms will be monitored
under the Regional Watershed Monitoring Network and reported on a regular basis through
publication of a watershed report card.
Forest habitat in the Lower Rouge Valley. (Photography @ Andy McKinnon)
Rouge River Watershed Plan - Executive Summary 22
CiUI 0#
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91
MEMO
To:
Deepak Bhatt
Planner 1/
January 13, 2009
From:
Marilee Gadzovski
Stormwater & Environmental Engineer
Richard Holborn, Division Head, Municipal Property & Engineering
Catherine Rose, Manager Policy
Neil Carroll, Director, Planning & Development
Subject: Rouge River Watershed Plan
File: 0-8100-004
Copy:
I have reviewed the above-noted plan as well as the associated documents located on the CD and
offer the following comments:
The Rouge River Watershed Plan states that "actions taken in the Rouge watershed can provide a
model for actions in other watersheds, as well as influence the environmental health of larger
systems. JI The Rouge watershed plan is the most recent watershed plan completed by TRCA and
includes state-of-the-art modelling of scenarios for sustainable communities and the effects of
climate change that were not included in the previously prepared Duffins and Carruthers
Watershed Plans. Transferring the knowledge gained in these scenarios will be invaluable in the
preparation of plans and reports for Duffin Heights and Seaton in order to guarantee the overall
success and long-term sustainability of the Duffins and Carruthers Waterhseds, Council should
support and authorize staff in this regard.
The Rouge River Watershed Plan Implementation Guide was prepared by TRCA in order to
facilitate the implementation of the Watershed Plan. Top priority implementation projects have
been identified in the Guide and are shown below in bold and italics. A review identified the
following projects that are applicable to the City and could be further developed in the City's long
term work plan and future budget preparations. These priority projects would not only benefit the
Rouge River Watershed, but all ofthe City's watersheds. Therefore, implementing these policies
and/or projects will further the City's sustainable goal. Council should support and authorize staff
where appropriate.
Policy and Policy Related Special Studies
· Identify the targeted terrestrial natural heritage system and the impacts on lands
within the City of Pickering, and adopt policies to protect and restore natural cover.
· Adopt a policy for managing pre-development water balance (ie. reduce excess
runoff volume, maintain or restore infiltration levels and evaporation) and areas
identified as locally significant recharge. Current stormwater practices manage for
peak flow, however, downstream erosion impacts continue to degrade aquatic
TTACWi:f.i: _ ..i. __TO
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habitats and alter natural stream-form processes, which can put stream-side
9 2infrastructure at risk and lead to increased maintenance and repair costs as well as
premature failure or replacement. As well, planning and design of subsurface
infrastructure (ie. sewers and watermains) should avoid areas where the water table
is predicted to be shallow (less than 2 metres below surface) or mitigate impacts on
groundwater flow and discharge as necessary. A 2009 budget request has been
made for a Stormwater Management Manual that will look at policies, guidelines and
criteria update. This policy will be incorporated into that manual.'
. Adopt a policy to implement the Greater Golden Horseshoe Conservation
Authorities' Erosion and Sediment Control Guideline for Urban Construction
(December 2006) as well as update the City's Fill and Topsoil Disturbance By-Law
(By-Law Number 6060/02) to reflect this new Guideline.
. Adopt a policy to recognize and implement the Rouge River Watershed Based
Fisheries Management Plan.
. Develop a policy that will support updated and expanded monitoring programs, with
a specific interest in the promotion and testing of new technologies and their
cumulative watershed effects in order to apply adaptive management measures as
necessary .
. Develop a strategy/procedure for streamlining approvals for innovative designs.
. In coordination with TRCA & BILD, promote a sustainable greenfield neighbourhood
demonstration project (ie. this could be possible in Duffin Heights and/or Seaton
etc.).
Regeneration
. Increase natural cover in the Rouge Park by implementing existing restoration plans.
. In partnership with TRCA, develop sustainable neighbourhood retrofit action plans
using an integrated approach including residential social marketing, naturalization,
stormwater management, infiltration, energy and STEP (Sustainable Technologies
Evaluation Program) monitoring.
. In partnership with TRCA and Rouge Park, undertake detailed planning and develop
a long term funding strategy to implement the Rouge watershed inter-regional trails
network. Figures 1.7, 2.4 and 2.6 of the Implementation Guide identifies two east-
-west linkage connections into the City of Pickering, The first is identified as the
Rouge-Duffins connection and is located within the Hydro Corridor between
Sheppard Ave and Finch Ave. The second consists of two trails within the northern
Hydro Corridor between Finch Ave and the 3rd Concession, just south of the existing
Cherrywood development. It should be noted that the latter trail connection is also
the preferred route for the S'Outheast Collector Trunk Sewer, with a proposed Meter
Facility and Shaft 6 & 7 located within this vicinity. Any interference or opposing
uses between the proposed trail and sewer infrastructure will have to reviewed.
. Improve accessibility and links with local trail systems and minimize the impacts. of
public use on greenspace by creating off-leash areas and closing unauthorized
informal trails.
. In partnership with DFO, MNR, TRCA, Rouge Park, Ontario Streams, and City of
Toronto determine risks to watershed by invasive aquatic species and evaluate need
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Rouge River Watershed Plan
Page 2
to install a fish barrier at 401. As well, continue_Tr~.i.gQ1n9 Rf:/u.. ..~g..~... ~rsh restoration
efforts. ~,r\ii' # FD.... I "'-:-Qc{ I 9 3.
Stewardship and Education
· In coordination with TRCA, deliver technology transfer workshops, seminars and
materials for sustainable technologies, erosion and sediment control, and
sustainable urban form.
· Develop a co-ordinated program with TRCA, to accelerate implementation of lot
level retrofits by the business, residential and institutional sectors.
· Along with TRCA, Rouge Park, MNR and local Community groups, co-ordinate the
development of educational materials on invasive species removal techniques and
engage volunteer groups to help in monitoring and removal.
· Develop an outreach program with TRCA and the appropriate utilities, based on the
results from the Renewable Energy Road map to promote the uptake of renewable
energy t~chnologies.
· In order to address the four points above, the Environmental Awareness Program
could be expanded to include these issues, with a specific emphasis on the design,
testing and performance of sustainable technologies (ie. green roofs, permeable
pavement, pervious pipes, infiltration trenches, rainwater collection and re-use etc.).
Operation and Maintenance
· Conduct assessments of sediment accumulation in SWM pond and develop a
prioritized list of clean out projects. This has already been identified by City staff and
funding will be requested for this project in the 2010 budget.
· Investigate innovative financing mechanisms such as stormwater fees (municipal
water and sewer bill) and credits for property owners, to help fund stormwater
maintenance programs and retrofit projects.
· In co-ordination with TRCA develop guidelines for design fmd establishment of
municipal SWM facility maintenance program, including monitoring, rehabilitation
and financing mechanisms.
· In co-ordination with MTO review and implement existing road salt management
plans and snow disposal plans in order to prevent and reduce the release of
pollutants, with consideration given to the new information arising from the Rouge
Watershed Plan (ie. groundwater recharge/discharge areas).
· In co-ordination with MTO review and adapt operations to minimize the impacts of
transportation on the Rouge Park and other natural heritage lands within the
watershed.
Enforcement
· In consultation with various agencies, develop inter-jurisdictional compliance
protocol for wildlife poaching, erosion and sediment control, tree cutting, topsoil and
land disturbance, dumping, trespassing, and encroachment. In order to adequately
address this issue an environmental by-law officer will be required to ensure
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Rouge River Watershed Plan
Page 3
94
'TTACHiJEi'J < _ _TC
compliance within the City:~PRfbft~eri~spe.e.j.ally, with respect to erosion and
sediment control and the upcoming Duffin Heights and Seaton Subdivision plans.
Monitoring
. Work with TRCA to launch a cumulative effects monitoring program for innovative
development design.
. Review recommendations for additional monitoring in the Rouge watershed as part
of the 5 year review and update of the Regional Watershed Monitoring Network.
. Develop and implement a program to monitor trail use and participation rates in
other related recreational activities.
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January 13, 2009
Rouge River Watershed Plan
Page 4'