AR 09v4.cdr - Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority

CONSERVATION
ANNUAL REPORT 2009
Saugeen River Watershed
Southampton
Port Elgin
Saugeen
River
SAUGEEN
SHORES
LAKE HURON
ARRANELDERSLIE
10
Paisley
6
North
Saugeen River
Chesley
Markdale
GREY HIGHLANDS
Styx River
Rocky Saugeen
River
Tiverton
1
KINCARDINE
Kincardine
WEST GREY
3
NorthP enetangore River
BROCKTON
10
10
Saugeen
River
Teeswater
River
Saugeen
River
4
Dundalk
Durham
Hanover
Saugeen
River
9
Walkerton
Penetangore Rvi er
1
6
Ripley
Pine River
10
CHATSWORTH
21
9
Neustadt
9/4
SOUTHGATE
Beatty Saugeen
River
HURON/KINLOSS
Mildmay
South Saugeen
River
SOUTH BRUCE
Teeswater
9
South Saugeen
River
Mount
Forest
WELLINGTON NORTH
Clifford
4
89
6
HOWICK
MINTO
MORRIS/TURNBERRY
In This Issue
Chairman’s Address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Forestry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15
Conservation Snapshots.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19
Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation. . . . . 20-21
Environmental Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Sponsors & Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23
Conservation Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13
Administration & Finance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Cover photos: Telfer Wegg
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 1
Telfer Wegg
CHANGE...AND THE UNEXPECTED
It gives me great pleasure to present to you
our 2009 Annual Report.
As Chair of Saugeen Conservation, I
also have the esteemed honour of being
a part of Conservation Ontario, the
umbrella organization for all 36
Conservation Authorities across Ontario.
I can honestly say that I am continually
amazed at the tremendous strides that
are made, each and every year, to
initiate positive changes to the
environment in which we live and
depend.
Our role here at Saugeen
Conservation is very similar. One of our
key responsibilities is balancing the
needs of our watershed residents with
that of the natural environment. We
must also take into account the bigger
picture - that of the 'watershed context'.
After all, we all live in a watershed
”where everything is connected to
everything else”, and where our actions
can very well affect those downstream.
In addition, many of our life-giving
resources such as water, will continue to
nourish and sustain other populations
and communities throughout the world.
As your local Conservation Authority,
we feel strongly that you, our member
municipalities and watershed residents,
should play a major role in our direction
as your local environmental
organization. In 2009, for example, we
addressed the need for a new Strategic
Plan. In so doing, we asked you for your
concerns with respect to the local
environment. Your input is key to our
'grassroots' approach to watershed
management and fundamental to our
success as your conservation
organization.
Village of Formosa. Staff and Directors
are looking forward to the new setting
tucked into the gently rolling hills of this
quaint village. The move is scheduled
for late 2010.
In closing, I would like to invite you to
read through our 2009 Annual Report.
We are proud of our accomplishments
and enjoy sharing them with you. You
have our promise that we will continue
to work for the betterment of the local
environment, on your behalf and those
who come after us. It's a responsibility
that we take very seriously!
2009 was also the year that nature
herself dictated our conservation
priorities. On August 20, a tornado
swept through parts of our watershed
including our very own Durham
Conservation Area. This horrible tragedy
resulted in the death of a young boy as
well as numerous injuries. Our thoughts
and prayers continue to be with all those
affected.
As we move into 2010, there is much
anticipation. After years of deliberation,
we will be moving our main office to the
Sincerely,
Doug Freiburger
Chair
Page 2 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
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CONSERVATION
1)
Thanks to funds donated through the
International Plowing Match (IPM) Beautification
Fund from 2008, staff and volunteers were able to
establish additional gardens and paths at the
Headquarters Conservation Area for all to enjoy!
2)
Staff assisted volunteers with a clean-up along
the Teeswater River on September 20th. Over
800 pounds of garbage was collected during the
busy afternoon. Thanks to the Municipality of
South Bruce for the much appreciated lunch!
3)
Saugeen Conservation took part in an excellent
conference entitled 'Going Green at Saugeen' ,
organized by the Grey Bruce Sustainability
Network on October 22 & 23. Speakers focused
on a wide range of topics, including climate
change, adaptations and green initiatives on a
local level.
4)
Staff assisted with a variety of public events
throughout the watershed. The Grey Bruce
Woodlot Conference was one such event.
Hundreds of people come together to learn about
forest health, disease control, species at risk,
forest management and more.
5)
Staff has been working with numerous partners in
the development of a Forest Festival. This event
will feature plenty of hands-on activities designed
to teach kids about various aspects of trees,
forests, animals, habitats, etc. The festival is
scheduled for October 19 - 21, 2010 at Allan Park
Conservation Area.
6)
For the first time, staff from Saugeen, Grey Sauble
and Drinking Water Source Protection combined
resources to attend the well-known Keady
Market. This local favourite attracts thousands of
visitors during the summer months.
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Keady Market
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 3
“We forget that the water cycle and
the life cycle are one!” - Jacques Cousteau
Water has been travelling the planet for billions of years. Continuously cycling, it never rests. Add
people to the formula, however, and the results become complex, multi-faceted and in some cases,
downright controversial.
The questions people have regarding the complexity of
water and the wonders of its ways present an ongoing
challenge to Saugeen Conservation. As a conservation
organization, working to provide the best possible care of this
resource, it is imperative that we gain a thorough
understanding of the water that surrounds us. To do this, we
undertake a number of functions to obtain the knowledge
necessary to implement proper protection. Maintaining good
water quality however, doesn’t just rest with the Authority. We
need your help, the watershed residents, to ensure the
ongoing stewardship of this valuable resource. It’s a big
Page 4 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
responsibility and one that we should take seriously, not only
for ourselves, but for future generations.
The issues that arise as a result of people and water, we
categorize under Water Management. It includes all of the
above in an unrelenting attempt to balance the needs and
activities of humans with that of the natural environment. Our
job as a Conservation Authority, is to do this within an area
defined by watershed boundaries.
WATER MANAGEMENT PROJECTS & INITIATIVES
LOCKERBY DAM
One of our core mandates as a Conservation Authority is to ‘prevent loss of life, property damage
and social disruption from flood and erosion processes’. In so doing, Conservation Authorities have
constructed capital projects designed to protect lives and property. It is our responsibility to ensure
that these projects are regularly maintained to ensure their continued integrity.
2009 Water Management & Stewardship Highlights
All of Saugeen Conservation’s Flood and Erosion
Control structures were inspected. Ongoing repairs
and maintenance were completed for both the Upper
Durham Dam and the Mount Forest Dam.
Saugeen Conservation has been proud to partner with
the Pine River Watershed Initiative Network on a
variety of watershed improvement projects. Their efforts
have included cattle restriction, education, tree planting,
the installation of nitrate filters and more. To date, this
group has planted approximately 200,000 trees
throughout the Pine River watershed.
Staff continue to work with the Bruce Resource
Stewardship Network on environmental education.
Staff coordinated a workshop with stewardship groups
and organizations throughout the watershed to discuss
the possibility of sharing resources and expertise for a
more integrated approach to local conservation
programs and efforts.
Our Partners
Bruce Resource Stewardship Network
Bruce County Rural Clean Water Quality Program
Wellington County Rural Water Quality Program
Huron County Clean Water Project
Pine River Watershed Initiative Network
Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 5
Staff examine benthos, or
bottom dwelling insects,
crustaceans, worms and
mollusks, in local waterways.
These organisms are excellent
indicators as they respond to
changes in water quality
relatively quickly. A total of 22
sites were sampled in 2009 as
part of Saugeen Conservation’s
Biomonitoring Program.
Telfer Wegg
“When the well is dry, we learn the
worth of water” - Benjamin Franklin
TESTING THE WATERS
Monitoring the Health of our Waterways
Surface Water Monitoring
Samples are taken once per month
during the ice free season. Twenty-nine
sites are sampled within the Saugeen,
Pine and Penetangore River watersheds
and analyzed for general chemistry and
E. coli.
Groundwater Monitoring
Saugeen Conservation monitors 23
groundwater aquifers in 17 wells
throughout the watershed. Water
levels are monitored on an hourly basis
and water quality samples were
collected in the fall. (Note: any
exceedences of the Ontario Drinking
Water Standards are reported to the
municipalities and the local Health Unit
for follow-up.)
Nutrient Management
Monitoring
Since 2005, 15 streams in agricultural
watersheds across southwestern
Ontario have been monitored for water
quality, flow, and benthic invertebrates.
A long-term goal of this monitoring
project is to examine trends in water
quality in relation to changing
agricultural practices. This will be
especially useful in providing feedback
on the Nutrient Management Act, which
is being implemented on farms across
Ontario. Muskrat Creek in the Saugeen
watershed is included in this study.
The Ontario Ministry of the Environment
recently developed a new protocol
which uses diatom assemblages to
assess water quality in Southern
Ontario streams. This protocol involves
a visual assessment of algal growth and
the collection of algae-diatom samples
to help determine water quality. Staff
participated in field testing this new
protocol in exchange for algae data at
three of our surface water quality sites.
This could be a possible addition to the
monitoring program, depending on
2009 results.
Partnerships
Saugeen Conservation has been an ongoing partner with Dorset Environmental Science
Centre and the Ontario Benthos Biomonitoring Network (OBBN), doing research,
monitoring and assisting with technical report writing. The Water Quality Specialist also
sits on the Technical Advisory Committee for the OBBN as well as the Provincial
Groundwater Monitoring Network.
Page 6 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Algae Monitoring
Water Monitoring Sites
Committees &
Working
Groups
- Technical Advisory
Committee for the Ontario
Benthos Biomonitoring
Network
- Technical Advisory
Committee for the
Provincial Groundwater
Monitoring Network
- Watershed Report Card
Working Group
- Southern Ontario Stream
Monitoring and Research
Team (SOSMART)
- Provincial Groundwater
Monitoring Network
Southwestern Working
Group
- Ministry of the
Environment GIS Portal
Working Group
DRINKING WATER SOURCE PROTECTION
The ‘Drinking Water Source Protection’ programs, funded
by the provincial government and implemented by
Ontario’s Conservation Authorities, help to ensure a safe
and reliable source of water.
Terms of Reference
Documents (outlining the
items and tasks which must be
completed over the next three
years) were submitted to the
Ministry of the Environment
and approved on August 17,
2009.
Through the Ontario Drinking
Water Stewardship Program
'Special Projects' funding the
Walkerton Nitrate Study was
completed. This project
improved the knowledge of
water quality in the area and
built working relationships
within the local community.
Preparation of the region's
Assessment Reports. They are
to be submitted to the Minister
of the Environment in the fall
of 2010. Each Source
Protection Area (SPA) will have
its own Assessment Report.
Official consultation will
commence in May 2010.
CONSERVATION
Municipality of
Northern Bruce
Peninsula
Property owners utilized over
$190,000 in water protection
grants in 2009. Eligible lands
included those which were
wholly or partially within the
100 metre radius circle or twoyear time-of-travel zone of a
municipal drinking water well
or the Intake Protection Zone 1
of a municipal drinking water
intake.
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 7
A total of six flood
warning messages
were issued, all
during spring runoff.
FLOOD WARNING
The Saugeen River is the third largest river system in Southern Ontario, at a total length of 193 km.
It stands to reason then, that the potential for flooding can be a real threat.
It is the responsibility of the Flood Warning Department to
continuously monitor weather events and river systems in an attempt to
keep the public informed of potential floods and associated hazards.
Dave Pybus, Senior Manager of Flood Warning and Land Management
(left), looks after 27 computerized gauges located on over 500 km of
river systems. The gauges collect information on parameters, such as
river levels, air and water temperature, wind speed and direction and
precipitation.
Page 8 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Highlights
In 2009, the Senior Manager of Flood Warning
and Land Management was involved with the
following initiatives and partnerships:
Working with other Conservation Authorities and their
staff to convert flood warning software to a more user
friendly program.
Types of Flood
Bulletins
Safety Flood Bulletin: issued when
conditions are such that water levels in rivers could
be a possible concern. The purpose of the 'safety'
bulletin is to alert watershed residents of possible
Flood Warning staff attended regular meetings with
other Conservation Authorities across southwestern
Ontario to keep updated on the latest developments
and changes with respect to programming, consistent
flood warning messaging, and technological advances.
dangers and to stay away from watercourses.
Flood Advisory Bulletin: issued when
conditions are such that flooding could occur in low
lying areas of the watershed.
Staff also attended the annual Provincial Flood
Warning Workshop in Toronto. Speakers included
guests from across Canada and the United States.
Communication staff was also invited.
Flood Warning Bulletin: issued when
flooding is imminent. This may be restricted to just
one community or more.
PARTNERS IN CONSERVATION
Their mission:
To provide leadership and expertise, in
collaboration with partners, to achieve a
healthy Lake Huron coastal ecosystem.
Saugeen Conservation works closely with the LHCCC
on conservation issues along the Lake Huron
shoreline.
Highlights during 2009 include:
Coastal advisor to CA partners
Development of a public education brochure on the
invasive plant, Phragmites australis
Coordination of a workshop on Phragmites for agencies
and landowners in Bruce County and elsewhere in
western Ontario
Update to the Centre's dune ecosystems education kit
Advisor to the
Pitcher's
Thistle-Dune
Grasslands
Recovery
Team
Published 'Stewardship Guide for Lake Huron Coastal
Dunes', intended for people interested in caring for native
dune ecosystems
Participation in the Pine River Watershed Improvement
Network
Member of the Great Lakes regional jury for the
international Blue Flag program
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 9
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING
A Preventative Approach to
Protecting People & their Property
Fulfilling our prime mandate: “to
prevent loss of life, property damage
and social disruption, from flood and
erosion processes.”
Page 10 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Highlights
Completion of the Walkerton Floodplain Mapping.
Both
Silver Creek, the main Saugeen River, and the easterly
tributary are included in the new mapping.
Reviewed various aspects of the Bruce to Milton
Transmission Reinforcement Project proposed by Hydro
One Networks. This 180 km double-circuit 500,000 volt
(500 kV) transmission line from the Bruce Power facility in
the Municipality of Kincardine to Hydro One's Milton
Switching Station (Town of Milton) will extend the full
length of our watershed. Construction is expected to
begin in 2010. There will be further Saugeen
Conservation involvement as the project progresses.
Participated on the Steering Committee for the
Kincardine Natural Heritage Study. This study was
accepted by Kincardine Council in April of 2009. The
document is a progressive step by the municipality to
more fully address natural heritage issues when
considering development proposals. Saugeen
Conservation continues to be involved by participating on
a formal committee working on the Implementation
Study and leading toward an amendment to the
Kincardine Local Official Plan.
A Planning Services Agreement was signed in October
with the Municipality of West Grey. The Agreement
reaffirms the role and responsibilities for the Authority
when commenting on Planning Act applications, as well
as setting a fee schedule for proponents.
Reviewed proposed updates to the Grey County Official
Plan and the Walkerton Community Official Plan.
Comments were provided by Saugeen Conservation.
Telfer Wegg
Gary Senior, Sr. Manager of Environmental Planning & Regulations and
a local landowner discuss property issues.
Our Partners
Kincardine Natural Heritage Study Steering
Committee
Planning Officials Working Group (Source Water
Protection)
Member Municipalities and Counties
Issued a record 149 permits under the Development,
Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to
Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation. Permits are
required for works within Regulated Areas, being features
such as flood plains, wetlands, and valleys, as well as for
altering watercourses and for projects such as bridges
and culverts.
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 11
Telfer Wegg
CONSERVATION AREAS & LANDS
Highlights
New picnic tables for the camping parks
New hydro servicing at Brucedale Conservation Area
Improvements to bridges at Stoney Island Conservation
Area
New playground equipment and hydro transformer
replacement at Saugeen Bluffs Conservation Area
Staff assisted with the 2009 provincial Conservation
Areas “Supervisors Workshop” in Orillia.
With the support of the Municipality of West Grey and Union
Gas, improvements were made to the children's playground in
the Durham Day Use Area of the Durham Conservation Area.
Page 12 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Park Demographics
Total attendance at all 3 camping parks: 66,390 people
Economic value to the local community: $6,000,000
Total visitors to all Conservation Areas in 2009: 69,315
Park Events
Partnerships
Tragedy Strikes Durham Conservation Area
PREVIOUS
LOCATION
Before
The gatehouse at Durham Conservation Area
(above and right), was lifted off its foundation,
thrown several metres and flipped over on its
roof as a result of a tornado that swept through
the Conservation Area on August 20.
After
Contributions to the
Tornado Relief Fund
Cedarwell Excavating
Hanover
Marion Shannon, owner of
Whinny Acres, and staff
present Park
Superintendent Ron
McManus, with a cheque
for $500 to the Tornado
Relief Fund.
Whinny Acres
Priceville
Grey County Woodlot
Association
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 13
Telfer Wegg
FORESTRY SERVICES
Saugeen Conservation’s Forestry Department is
divided into two areas:
1
Management of
Saugeen Conservation Lands
2
(over 8,498 ha or 21,000 acres)
Saugeen Conservation takes great pride in properly
managing its own lands. A Forest Management Plan
has been in place since 2004, to ensure the continued
sustainability of Authority forests.
A cooperative effort between Saugeen
Conservation and Grey Sauble Conservation, the Grey
Bruce Forestry Service offers a number of different
forestry services to interested landowners, including:
Management on Conservation Lands in 2009
consisted of both a saw log harvest and an
improvement harvest in two different forest properties.
tree planting and marking
technical expertise and guidance
assistance with Managed Forest Tax Incentive
In addition, staff were forced to undertake a salvage
operation on 30 acres of upland hardwood forest
following the devastating damage left behind by a
tornado which struck the eastern part of the watershed
in August of 2009.
Page 14 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Programs, and more
(This is a fee-for-service program.)
2009 Highlights
A total of 225,000 trees
Telfer Wegg
were planted for 28
landowners.
Approximately 9,000 trees
were purchased over four
hours at the Annual Arbour
Day Tree Sale at the end of
April.
150 people attended the
Annual Grey Bruce
Woodlot Conference at the
end of March. Staff from
the Authority as well as
numerous other
organizations participated.
Hundreds of people
attended the annual Wood
Show at Welbeck Sawmill,
(Durham). Saugeen
Conservation marketed
their forestry services.
Jim Penner, Manager of Forestry, surveys a local hardwood forest.
In 2009, Saugeen Conservation ordered over 225,000
trees, a record breaking number, thanks in large part
to Trees Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program.
This program is a partnership between Trees Ontario and the Ministry of Natural
Resources in an effort to see 50 million trees planted by 2020.
The program is designed to significantly reduce landowners’ costs of large-scale
tree planting and thereby increase the number of trees planted.
The goal of the program is to: sequester carbon; enhance and diversify
southern Ontario's landscape; increase adaptive capacity to withstand climate
change; moderate local climate by providing shade, moderating temperature
extremes and reducing the effects of storms; increase wildlife habitat; increase
soil and water conservation, and provide local economic opportunities.
Affiliated Groups and Partners
-
Grey County Forest Stewardship Network
Bruce Resource Stewardship Network
Ontario Maple Syrup Producers Association (OMSPA)
Grey Bruce Chapter of the Ontario Maple Syrup
Producers Association
-
Bruce County Woodlot Association
Grey County Woodlot Association
Ontario Forestry Association
Ontario Woodlot Association
Trees Ontario
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 15
COMMUNICATIONS
Telfer Wegg
Public Relations • Foundation & Events • Education
Today's technology has expanded communication capabilities. Tools such as the internet and social
media have allowed organizations to reach audiences that would never have been possible a few years
ago.
In 2009, Saugeen Conservation utilized the internet in reducing paper, reaching more people, providing
instantaneous information and passing news along effectively.
2009 New Initiatives
Page 16 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
"
A new website is in the works, and as well, Saugeen
Conservation is now on Facebook!
"
In a continuous attempt to find new ways to make the
public aware of our programs and services, staff
attended the popular Keady Market during the summer
months.
"
Communications staff was involved in three public
meetings for Saugeen Conservation’s new Strategic
Plan.
Communication Efforts
Total Press Releases............................................................12
Radio promotions for events ..............................................5 weeks
PSA's, CKNX Radio Wingham ............................................36 weeks
Feature articles in The Post (Hanover) ...............................9
Green Side Up Newsletter ..................................................3
Campground Guidebook ....................................................6,000 copies
Attendance (combined) for annual events.........................13,500 people
Flyer Distribution (events)...................................................12,000
Newspaper Advertisements ...............................................50
Tourism Publication Advertising (Conservation Areas).....12
Placemats (distributed to watershed restaurants) .............7,000
Major Events (over 6,000 people) ......................................3
Minor Events (500 - 4,999 people) ....................................2
Total number of active volunteers......................................275
Shows/Seminars attended .................................................6
Evening Conservation Tours (SVCF & SVCA Directors) ....4
River Clean-up .....................................................................1
Presentations (to municipalities, interest groups, etc.) .....12
Catherine Bould, Graphics & Communications Assistant,
welcomes Eden Kontrimas (left) and Jessica Thacker, two
students who volunteered their services throughout the
summer months, assisting with programs and services at the
Headquarters Conservation Area.
Partners in Communications
Conservation Ontario
Grey Sauble Conservation
Maitland Valley Conservation Authority
Drinking Water Source Protection
(Saugeen, Grey Sauble and Northern Bruce Peninsula)
Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 17
“Conservation Education is the teaching and learning
process of how people and nature interact in such a way
that the balance of life on this planet is maintained.”
CONSERVATION EDUCATION
Our Programs Take the Classroom Outdoors
The WREN
In partnership with Grey Sauble Conservation the WREN offers
over 50 different hands-on curriculum based studies. Each
program investigates interactions within ecosystems,
biodiversity and sustainability. As well, programs examine the
human element and its role within the natural ecosystem.
DEER Program
This program offers excellent outdoor education opportunities
to students from grades 2 to 12. All schools in the Bluewater
District and Bruce Grey Separate School Boards are invited to
participate in these free programs, sponsored by Bruce Power.
Flood Waters and You
A joint venture between Saugeen Conservation , St. John
Ambulance and the OPP, this program focuses on the dangers
of thin ice and spring break up. A multi-media presentation
includes flooding demonstrations, hypothermia experiments,
and much more.
CONSERVATION
Page 18 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Grey Bruce Children's Water
Festival
Over 17 different organizations and 600 volunteers work
together to make the four day festival possible. Its mission: to
cultivate in every child and adult who participates in the
festival an understanding of, and appreciation of water they
use and the environment in which they live. Close to 2,000
grade four students participate each year.
Maple Syrup Demonstration
This sweet and delightful program has been running for over
30 years! Hands-on programs teach students about maple
syrup production, including forest management, tree health,
tapping methods, syrup grades, etc. Assistance is provided by
students from Kincardine District Secondary School’s
Environmental Leadership Course.
Earth Week Program
In-school programs are offered to help students learn more
about our resources and in so doing help look after our planet.
Over 400 students participated in the hands-on programs
focusing on water resource studies, forests, environmental
games and endangered species.
Summer Recreational Programs
Nature Day Camps were offered in partnership with the
Durham/West Grey Lions Club and the Municipality of West
Grey. Held at Durham Conservation Area, over 50 young
people participated in programs featuring bugs, camp crafts,
critter catching, the art of nature, science experiments, survival
challenges and more.
Local Groups and Organizations
Saugeen Conservation offers a host of different programs to
local groups, such as Girl Guides, Cubs and Scouts. In 2009,
over 400 participants from local youth groups participated in
conservation education programs.
Additional Highlights
Each year staff participate in the Regional Science Fair
Awards. A conservation award is presented to the student who
demonstrates excellent knowledge of local conservation
issues.
Staff were proud to participate in the 3rd Annual Youth
Outdoor Expo. This day is designed to provide Grey County
youth with an opportunity to explore the outdoors. Activities
include hiking, fishing, archery, bird banding and more.
Conservation Education
March Break provided an excellent opportunity for staff to
teach winter survival skills to Rotary Exchange students and
youth from the Hanover Recreation Department.
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“Helping people to gain a wider
knowledge and better understanding of
the natural world”
Staff has been working with numerous organizations in the
development of a Forest Festival. It will provide students with
hands-on opportunities on forest ecosystems, species at risk,
stewardship, conservation, and more, based on the Ontario
Curriculum. The first festival is planned for October 2010.
Wellington Catholic
District School Board
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 19
BR
Telfer Wegg
Telfer Wegg
Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation
is the fundraising arm of Saugeen Conservation.
COMMUNICATIONS & EVENTS
Saugeen Valley
Conservation
Foundation
The Communications Department works handin-hand with the Foundation to coordinate
various programs and fundraisers tailored to:
Funds Raised in 2009
(unaudited)
Memorial Grove
$1,760
produce revenues
2
provide excellent opportunities for awareness of
programs, Conservation Areas, projects and local
conservation issues
Christmas in the
Country $5,625
Telfer Wegg
1
Page 20 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Celebration
Forest
$300
Old Tyme Maple
Syrup Festival
$2,277
Events
Christmas in the Country
This popular event is held annually at the Headquarters
Conservation Area at the end of November. Over 6,000
people enjoy thousands of lights and hundreds of candle
lanterns. Activities range from cookie decorating to lantern
making, crafts, historical demonstrations, horse-drawn wagon
rides, a Christmas café, and visits with Santa in his very own
igloo!
Old-Tyme Maple Syrup Festival
An annual tradition, this event plays host to over 5,000
people. Children and adults alike enjoy pancakes and
sausages, a pioneer encampment, horse-drawn wagon rides,
demonstrations, activities, live entertainment and more.
Event Demographics
99% of people attending events stated that they would
recommend them to others
Over 88 different communities are represented at the
two major annual events
Programs
97% of people attending events rated them as excellent
65% of visitors shopped in the local area either before
or after the events, contributing significantly to the
local economy
Evening Conservation Tours
Memorial Grove Program
and Ceremony
This program provides individuals with an opportunity to plant
a tree in memory of a loved one. Over 200 trees were
planted in various Memorial Grove Forests throughout the
watershed in 2009.
Reduce, Reuse & Recycle
The Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation joined the
ThinkRecycle Program in their efforts to recycle used ink and
laser cartridges as well as old cell phones. The Foundation
Directors from both Saugeen Conservation and Saugeen Valley
recycled over 900 pounds of used materials in 2009. In
Conservation Foundation participated in several evening tours
addition, ThinkRecycle offers cash back for returns, resulting
designed to take in various projects of Saugeen Conservation.
in a win-win situation for the environment and the Foundation!
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 21
Telfer Wegg
VOLUNTEERS, SPONSORS & PARTNERS
Sincere Thanks to the Following for their Support
1st Chesley, Scouts
1st Walkerton Scouts
Jackie Alli, Walkerton
Dave Allen, Mildmay
Darrell Baltzer, Hanover
Liam & James Bell, Elmwood
Bill Brown’s Income Tax/Dundee
Wealth Management, Hanover
Dominik Billings, Priceville
Les Bluhm, Chesley
Elaine Bohnert, Hanover
Danielle Braithwaite, Hanover
Candace Bross, Walkerton
Bruce County Heritage Association
Bud Rier Chev Olds, Paisley
Caldecott Millwright Services Inc., &
Overhead Doors Bruce / Grey Ltd.,
Hanover
Margaret Caldecott, Guelph
Canadian Tire, Hanover
Jim Coffey, Chesley
Lola Labelle & Ray Cote, Valard
Construction LP, Hanover
CRS, Walkerton
Mike Darling, Wingham
Catherine Dickison, Mildmay
Durham Lions
Lindsay Eden, Hanover
Energizer Canada, Walkerton
Ed Ermel, Hanover
Jamie Fisher, Atwood
Brian & daughter Kathy Freiburger,
Waterloo
Doug Freiburger, Port Elgin
Chris Freist, Hanover
Genivar, Owen Sound
Calene Glousher, Hanover
Marg Goodwin, Mildmay
Nancy Griffin, Durham
Liz & son Evan Graveley, Hanover
Hanover Typocraft, Hanover
Jo-Anne & son Eric Harbinson,
Allan Park
Johanna & son Rich Hardy, Hanover
Barb Harrison, Durham
HFI Services, Mount Forest
Josh, Beth and Matt Hooper, Holstein
Keith Hundt, Walkerton
Molly Jacques, Hanover
Bryce Johnston, Wingham
K's Kountry Kitchen, Walkerton
Ron Kaufman, Mildmay
James Kritz, Hanover
Adrian & Marianne Kroetsch, Hanover
John & Jeanne Kuntz, Elmwood
Leena Kuntz, Carlsruhe
Larry Lacey, Walkerton
Al Leach, Mount Forest
Rebecca LeMay, Clifford
Anna & Jay Lennox, Clifford
Andrew Lestt, Holyrood
Evelyn MacLeod, Paisley
Menno Martin Jr., Cambridge
Dennis & Ruby McCracken, Hanover
Ron McGhee, Priceville
Bernie McGlynn Lumber, Mildmay
Page 22 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Ron McManus, Durham
Brittany Merchant, Walkerton
Julie Metzger, Hanover
Tanelle Milton, Waterloo
Mathew Mitchell, Hanover
Laura Molson, Mildmay
Rebecca Moore, Durham
Ed & Betty Moric, Durham
Jenelle Motz, Clifford
Brenda Murray, Hanover
Leslie Nelson, Walkerton
New-Life Mills, Hanover
North Wellington Co-op Store,
Hanover
Ontario Steelheaders Association
Paisley Kinsmen
Andrew Parent, Kimberley
Marissa Parson, Walkerton
Kelly Pennings, Priceville
PharmaSave, Hanover
Rebecca Porter, Hanover
Jan Pratt, Priceville
Dave Pybus, Hanover
Mike Pyne, Hanover
Melvin Ray, Valard Construction LP,
Hanover
Maria Reinhardt, Mildmay
Michael Reinhardt, Teeswater
Sarah Reinhardt, Mildmay
Joyce Ruddell, Hanover
Doug Schaab, Chesley
Willie and Marion Schwippl, Hanover
Andrew Scott, Holyrood
Judy Shelley and Family, Hanover
Bonnie Sherman, Hanover
Don Smith, Hanover
Bill Sommerville, Belgrave
South Bruce Buckskinners
Summer Jobs Canada
Brad & Abby Speilmacher, Waterloo
The Butchart Family, Neustadt
The Lang boys, Walkerton
The Re-Store, Hanover
The Schnurr Family, Mildmay
The Shannon Family, Clifford
The Wood Family, Mildmay
Teeswater Concrete
Gary Thomas & son Adam, Hanover
John Trace, Ayton
Crystal Tyler, Priceville
Union Gas, Waterloo
Cas & Robbert Vandergrift, Priceville
Sue Vlietstra, Hanover
Voisins Maple Products, Formosa
Anne Voisin, Teeswater
Brenda Voisin, Teeswater
Mathew Worton, Hanover
Larissa Weerman, Lucknow
Welbeck Sawmill, Durham
Marian & Al Wersch, Hanover
Marissa Wheeler, Teeswater
Gary & Wanda Whiteman, Hanover
Matthew Zeinstra, Neustadt
Zellers, Hanover
CONSERVATION
Saugeen
Valley
Conservation
Foundation
Behind the Scenes
Bonnie Sherman, Executive Secretary
As with many organizations, there are dedicated people who
work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly.
We would be remiss if we did not mention their contribution
and dedication to the overall accomplishments of the
organization.
These individuals provide the much-needed services that are
crucial for the day-to-day operation of Saugeen Conservation.
Telfer Wegg
AGVISE-CROP ADVISORY, RIPLEY
BRUCE POWER, TIVERTON
CKNX RADIO, WINGHAM
BRUCE COUNTY CAMPERS ASSOCIATION
BRUCE COUNTY TRAPPERS & CRAPPERS
BRUCE TELECOM, TIVERTON
STU BYERS, HANOVER
CEDARWELL EXCAVATING, HANOVER
SAM FRASER, AYTON
FRIENDS OF McBEATH
NANCY GILROY, CHESLEY
GRANT'S YOUR INDEPENDENT GROCER, HANOVER
IPM BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE, TEESWATER
JOHANNA'S SEWING, HANOVER
VALERY KEMPERS, MARKDALE / GENIVAR,
OWEN SOUND
KEN, MONIKA & MARCELLA KIENAPPLE, TEESWATER
EDEN KONTRIMAS, HANOVER
KINCARDINE SKI CLUB
DAVE & CAROL KRAFT, AYTON
DONNA LACEY, WALKERTON
JACK MacLEOD, HANOVER
THE MARTIN FAMILY, CHEPSTOW
RED & BARB McCAUSLAND, MILDMAY
NEIL VAN VLIET ESTATE, MARKDALE
ONTARIO POWER GENERATION, TIVERTON
JIM PENNER, WALKERTON
THE POST, HANOVER
J&J SANDBLASTING, ELMWOOD
GARY SENIOR, HANOVER
HENRY SIMPSON, WALKERTON
THE SOUTH GREY HUNTERS
JOHN SUTHERLAND & SONS, GUELPH
JESSICA THACKER, TEESWATER
WEST GREY POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENTS
WHINNY ACRES, PRICEVILLE
SHARON YORKE & FRIENDS, TEESWATER
Telfer Wegg
We Gratefully Acknowledge
the Following for their
Major Support
Bruce Martin (left), Assistant Superintendant, and Ron McManus,
Superintendant of Durham Conservation Area, load materials for a
major event.
Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009 page 23
Administration & Finance
Staff
ADMINISTRATION
Jim Coffey
Laura Molson
Bonnie Sherman
Kelly Pennings
COMMUNICATIONS
Shannon Wood
Catherine Bould
Nancy Griffin
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING Gary Senior
*Jo-Anne Harbinson
Cara Holtby
Erik Downing
**Candace Bross
Kalena Metcalfe
Kim Lefebvre
Candace Bross
Ben Sumner
FORESTRY
Jim Penner
Donna Lacey
Rene Kleinecke
LAND MANAGEMENT
Al Leach
Ron McManus
Ron Kaufman
Caralynn Kamerman
Bruce Martin
Brian Grice
MAINTENANCE
Stuart Byers
Robert Burrell
WATER MANAGEMENT
Dave Pybus
Jo-Anne Harbinson
Martha Nicol
CONSERVATION
Directors
Doug Freiburger, Chair, Municipality of Saugeen Shores
Dan Gieruszak, 1st Vice-Chair, Municipality of Brockton
Dan Sullivan, 2nd Vice-Chair, Municipality of West Grey
Anne Eadie, Past Chair, Township of Huron-Kinloss
Luke Charbonneau, Town of Saugeen Shores
Jack Riley, Municipality of Arran-Elderslie
John Bell, Municipality of West Grey
Tom Kuglin, Township of Chatsworth
Manley Risk, Municipality of Grey Highlands
Peter Hambly, Town of Hanover
Gord Campbell, Municipality of Kincardine
Carl Zettel, Municipalities of Morris-Turnberry/South
Bruce/Township of Howick
Ralph Winslade, Township of Southgate
Iain Forbes, Township of Wellington North/Town of Minto
* Mark MacKenzie, Township of Wellington North/Town of Minto
Ron Hewitt, Municipality of Kincardine
* Mark MacKenzie (replaced Iain Forbes in October 2009
Saugeen
Valley
Conservation
Foundation
Directors
Ed Moric, Chair, Durham
Ken Kienapple, Vice-Chair, Teeswater
Laura Molson, Treasurer (staff)
Shannon Wood, Secretary and Public Relations (staff)
Jim Coffey (General Manager, Saugeen Conservation)
Doug Freiburger (ex-officio and Chair of Saugeen Conservation)
Jack MacLeod, Hanover
Rick Pake, Hanover
Gary Thomas, Hanover
Catherine Dickison, Mildmay
Darlene Schnurr, Mildmay
Willie Schwippl, Hanover
Dennis McCracken, Hanover
Marg Goodwin, Mildmay
Jack Riley, Paisley
General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer
Manager, Accounting
Executive Secretary
Accounting Clerk
Manager, Communications
Graphics & Communications Assistant
Conservation Education Co-ordinator
Sr. Manager, Environmental Planning & Regulations
Environmental Planning Co-ordinator
Environmental Planning Co-ordinator
Environmental Planning Technician
Resources Information Technician
Resources Information Technician
Regulations Officer
Regulations Officer
Regulations Officer
Manager, Forestry
Forestry Technician
GIS Co-ordinator
Manager, Lands
Park Superintendent, Durham CA
Park Superintendent, Saugeen Bluffs CA
Park Superintendent, Brucedale CA
Assistant Park Superintendent, Durham CA
Assistant Park Superintendent, Saugeen Bluffs CA
Field Services Co-ordinator
Maintenance Co-ordinator
Sr. Manager, Flood Warning & Land Management
Manager, Water Resources & Stewardship Services
Water Quality Specialist
*Jo-Anne assumed the position of Manager of Water Resources & Stewardship Services in May 2009. Cara Holtby was hired as
the new Environmental Planning Coordinator in July.
** Candace Bross assumed the position of Regulations Officer in September of 2009, replacing Kim Lefebvre, who left in
September. Kalena Metcalfe was hired as the new Resources Information Technician in December.
Source Water Protection Staff
Don Smith
David Ellingwood
Steacy den Haan
Thorsten Arnold
Sara Pickard
Project Manager
Program Supervisor
Communications Specialist
Technical Supervisor
Water Quality Technician
Nancy Guest
Karen Gillan
Emily Vandermeulen
Elly Ward
Administrative Assistant
Education Specialist
GIS/Database Specialist
Outreach Specialist
2009 Financial Summary (unaudited)
EXPENSES
$2,917,463
REVENUE
$3,631,159
MNR Capital
<1%
MNR
Operating
4%
Forest
Management
15%
Land Management
26%
Other Gov't Grants
4%
Special Programs
4%
General Levy
36%
Capital
9%
Authority Generated
54%
Page 24 Saugeen Conservation Annual Report 2009
Community
Relations
8%
Special Levy
2%
Administration
14%
Flood Control &
Water
Management
24%
CONSERVATION
www.svca.on.ca
261123 Grey Rd. 28
R. R. 1 Hanover, ON
N4N 3B8
519-364-1255
Fax 519-364-6990
Saugeen Conservation is a member of Conservation
Ontario, the umbrella organization for all 36
Conservation Authorities across Ontario.
300/04/10