Ballantrae-Musselman Lake and Environs Environmental

Transcription

Ballantrae-Musselman Lake and Environs
Environmental Management Strategy
Prepared for:
The Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville
37 Sandiford Drive, 4th Floor
Stouffville, ON L4A 7X5
Project No. 1252
Head Office:
225 Labrador Drive, Waterloo, Ontario, N2K 4M8
Date: February 2012
Revised: March 2013
Tel: (519) 725-2227
Fax: (519) 725-2575
Web: www.nrsi.on.ca
Email: [email protected]
Ballantrae-Musselman Lake and Environs
Environmental Management Strategy
Project Team
Staff
David Stephenson
Katharina Walton
Pat Deacon
Role
Senior Biologist, Project Advisor
Terrestrial and Wetland Biologist, Project Manager
Terrestrial and Wetland Biologist
Report submitted on March 7, 2013
Katharina Walton, Project Manager
Head Office:
225 Labrador Drive, Waterloo, Ontario, N2K 4M8
Tel: (519) 725-2227
Fax: (519) 725-2575
Web: www.nrsi.on.ca
Email: [email protected]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 1
2.0
Study Methods...................................................................................................... 3
3.0
Existing Conditions ............................................................................................... 4
3.1 Surficial Geology and Drainage ............................................................................ 4
3.2 Designated Natural Areas ..................................................................................... 7
3.3 Vegetation ............................................................................................................ 9
3.3.1
Vascular Flora ............................................................................................ 9
3.3.2
Vegetation Communities ............................................................................ 9
4.0
Wildlife ................................................................................................................ 14
4.1 Birds ................................................................................................................... 14
4.2 Herpetofauna ...................................................................................................... 16
4.3 Mammals ............................................................................................................ 17
4.4 Fish .................................................................................................................... 17
5.0
Natural Heritage System ..................................................................................... 20
5.1 What is a Natural Heritage System? ................................................................... 20
5.2 How was the Study Area Natural Heritage System Developed? ......................... 20
5.3 Establishment of Buffers ..................................................................................... 21
5.4 The Natural Heritage System .............................................................................. 22
6.0
References ......................................................................................................... 28
List of Figures
Figure 1. Study Area ...................................................................................................... 2
Figure 2. Designated Natural Areas ............................................................................... 5
Figure 3. Municipal and Watershed Boundary Map ........................................................ 6
Figure 4. Vegetation Communities ............................................................................... 13
Figure 5. Natural Heritage System ............................................................................... 23
Figure 6. Natural Heritage System Establishment ........................................................ 24
List of Tables
Table 1. Significant Plants Reported From the Study Area Vicinity ............................... 11
Table 2. Significant Bird Species Known from the Vicinity of the Study Area ................ 14
Table 3. Herpetofaunal Species at Risk Reported From the Study Area....................... 18
Table 4. Fish Species Known From the Study Area...................................................... 19
Table 5. Natural Heritage System Establishment ......................................................... 25
List of Appendices
Appendix I
Bird Species Reported From the Study Area
Appendix II
Herpetofaunal Species Reported From the Study Area
Appendix III Mammal Species Reported From the Study Area
1.0 Introduction
The Ballantrae‐Musselman Lake and Environs Secondary Plan Area is a unique
community focused on the Ballantrae settlement area which includes a residential golf
course community, and the hamlet of Musselman Lake. Surrounding these areas are
rural and environmental lands, including estate lot subdivisions and residential strips. In
addition, the community is located on the Oak Ridges Moraine with a range of
environmental features. The Ballantrae‐Musselman Lake and Environs Secondary Plan
was adopted in 1994. It has been amended a number of times, but has never been
subject to a comprehensive review. A number of significant issues have led to the need
for a review. These include concerns which impede development in Ballantrae. There is
also the need to consider the connectivity of the natural heritage/open space system.
Natural Resource Solutions Inc. (NRSI), together with a consulting team led by
Macaulay Shiomi Howson Ltd. (MSH), was retained in June 2011 to review the
Secondary Plan.
The Town of Whitchurch‐Stouffville has identified the preparation of a comprehensive
Environmental Management Strategy as an objective of this study. NRSI was retained
specifically to prepare the Environmental Management Strategy for the area covered in
the Ballantrae‐Musselman Lake and Environs Secondary Plan (see Figure 1). This
Strategy will play an important role in many other aspects of the study such as
identification of opportunities and constraints, as well as servicing.
The assessment of the accuracy and relevance of the existing Natural Feature
Conservation Areas designated in the existing Secondary Plan is also a study
requirement. Key aspects of this assessment are:
 Accuracy of the characterization of the natural features and functions in the
planning area.
 Connectivity within, as well as to areas outside of, the study area.
 Consistency with existing policies/guidelines at the provincial, Conservation
Authority, and Regional levels.
This report was revised in early 2013 to update species statuses and to clarify Figure 6
and Table 5.
Natural Resource Solutions Inc.
Ballantrae-Musselman Lake - Environmental Management Strategy
1
York/Durham Line
Ninth Lin
e
48
Highway
Aurora Road
Vandorf Sideroad
Figure 1
Secondary Plan Study Area
Ballantrae-Musselman Lake and
Environs Secondary Plan Review
October 2011
York/Durham Line
Ninth Line
Highway
48
Aurora Road
Hillsdale Drive
Legend
Secondary Plan Boundary
Municipal Boundary
LSRCA Watercourse
0
250
500
1,000 m
© 2011 The Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville
© 2011 The Regional Municipality of York
Produced using information under License with the
Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
© Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, 2011
© First Base Solutions Inc., 2009 Orthophotography
2.0 Study Methods
Background information on the natural environmental features within the study area was
gathered from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA), the Ontario
Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Aurora District, and the Natural Heritage
Information Centre (NHIC) Biodiversity Explorer website.
Several studies have been completed that overlap with the study area. The following
studies were reviewed:
 East Holland River Subwatershed Plan (LSRCA 2010)
 Musselman’s Lake Subwatershed Assessment and Stewardship Opportunities
Report (LSRCA 2009)
 Natural Heritage System for the Lake Simcoe Watershed – Phase 1:
Components and Policy Templates (Beacon and LSRCA 2007)
 Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (2002)
 Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville Official Plan, Section 11.0 Ballantrae-Musselman
Lake and Environs Secondary Plan (1994)
 Whitchurch-Stouffville Natural Features & Greenlands Study (Gartner Lee 2000)
Initial species lists were compiled to provide information on species reported from the
local vicinity (10x10km survey squares) using various atlases including the Ontario
Mammal Atlas (Dobbyn 1994), Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (OBBA) squares 17PJ37 and
17PJ47 (BSC et al. 2006), and the Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (Ontario Nature 2013).
The Natural Heritage Information Centre Biodiversity Explorer Database was searched
for provincially rare species (NHIC 2010). All wildlife species identified as nationally
significant (COSEWIC 2013) or provincially significant (MNR 2013) were crossreferenced with species and habitats known to occur within the study area.
On August 30, 2011, biologists from NRSI conducted reconnaissance level surveys
during which Ecological Land Classification (ELC) data provided by the LSRCA from the
Natural Heritage System for the Lake Simcoe Watershed project (Beacon and LSRCA
2007) was reviewed and refined. The Natural Heritage System was mapped through
field confirmation, review of oblique aerial photography taken from the study area by
Brook McIlroy on August 11, 2011, review of Google Earth images dated September 1,
2009, mapping from the Secondary Plan, LSRCA’s ELC mapping, and natural area
mapping provided by the MNR.
3
3.0 Existing Conditions
3.1 Surficial Geology and Drainage
The study area falls within Ontario’s Greenbelt Plan area and the Oak Rides Moraine,
which consists of knobby hills between 290 and 373m above sea level, comprised of
irregular layers of unconsolidated sand and gravel deposited by the Wisconsin glacier.
The retreating ice left kettle lakes, of which Musselman Lake is one (Stouffville.com
2011). The Oak Ridges Moraine is an irregular ridge of sandy hills stretching 160km
from the Niagara Escarpment in the west to the Trent River in the east (MMAH 2009). It
is the watershed divide between western Lake Ontario to the south, and Lake Simcoe,
Georgian Bay, and the Trent River system to the north.
The Soil Survey of York County (Hoffman and Richards 1955) shows the majority of the
study area (the entire central portion) comprised of the Brighton soil series, a sandy
loam with good drainage. The soils are well sorted grey, calcareous sand or stratified
sand and gravel. The topography is gently sloping. The periphery of the study area,
which is the area surrounding the Brighton sandy loam, is Pontypool sand with good
drainage. The soil is poorly sorted slightly calcareous sandy outwash. This area has
irregular steep slopes. Several areas of variable Muck are located in the southern half of
the study area, the largest corresponding to the Musselman Lake Wetland Complex
(Figure 2). The Muck areas are depressions with very poor drainage containing well
decomposed organic material at least 45cm deep, over mineral materials. The study
area also contains a small pocket of Bridgman sand with excessive drainage, and a
small area of Tecumseth sandy loam with imperfect drainage. The areas are located in
the central west and southwest portions of the study area respectively.
The study area falls almost entirely within the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation
Authority (LSRCA) jurisdiction, with exception of the extreme southeast corner, which
falls within the Duffins Creek Subwatershed of Toronto Region Conservation Authority
(TRCA) jurisdiction. Within the Lake Simcoe Watershed, most of the study area falls
within the East Holland Subwatershed. The northeast quarter of the site falls within the
Pefferlaw Brook Subwatershed, and the northwest section of the study area falls within
the Black River Subwatershed (Figure 3).
A central feature within the study area is Musselman Lake, with a surface area of 46ha
and a maximum depth of 8m. As a kettle lake, it relies on precipitation, surface runoff,
and groundwater input, and provides intermittent outflow to a wetland area to its
northwest. It eventually drains into the East Holland River. The lands around
Musselman Lake have been extensively developed for residential, recreational, and
agricultural uses. This has resulted in degraded water quality such as increased water
temperature, excessive aquatic vegetation growth, and algae blooms (LSRCA 2009).
The study area contains several small headwater streams, which are classified as
coldwater, or managed as coldwater (Gartner Lee 2000) (Figure 1).
4
Ninth Lin
e
Musselman Lake Kettles
(ANSI - Life Science)
York/Durham Line
Vivian Infiltration ESA
Highway
48
Hall Tract
Patterson Tract
Aurora Road
Aurora Road
Ballantrae Sand Plain
ANSI - Earth Science
Musselman
Lake ESA
Clarke Tract
Highway
48
McKewon
(Shadow)
Lake
Musselman Lake Kettles
ANSI - Life Science
Stanley
Lake
Vandorf Sideroad
Figure 2
Designated Natural Areas
February 2012
Musselman Lake Environmentally
Significant Area
ANSI - Life Science
Designated Natural Areas
Wetland - Local Significance
Wetland - Provincial Significance
ANSI - Life Science
Regional Forest
Environmentally Significant Area (ESA)
Staly
Lake
Provincially Significant
East Musselman Lake
Wetland Complex
Ninth Line
Musselman
Lake
Provincially Significant
Musselman Lake
Wetland Complex
Island
Lake
Windsor
Lake
York/Durham Line
Dainty Tract
Musselman Lake Kettle Complex
Hillsdale Drive
Legend
Parcel Fabric
LSRCA Watercourse
Road Network
Waterbody
0
250
500
1,000 m
© Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, 2011. All rights reserved.
East Gwillimbury
Lake Simcoe
Region Watershed
Scugog
Uxbridge
Pefferlaw Brook
Black River
West
Holland
Newmarket
East Holland
Whitchurch-Stouffville
Duffins Creek
Aurora
Rouge River
Toronto Region
Watershed
Humber
River Richmond Hill
Figure 3
Municipal and Watershed
Boundary Map
September 2011
Pickering
Key Map
Lake Simcoe
Simcoe
County
Legend
0
1
2
4
6 km
Lower Municipal Boundary
Watershed Boundary
Subwatershed Boundary
Durham Region
York Region
City of Toronto
Lake Ontario
3.2 Designated Natural Areas
The study area falls within the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM) Conservation Plan Area, and
contains all components of the Plan: ORM Natural Core Area (Core Area), ORM Natural
Linkage Area (Linkage Area), and ORM Countryside Area including Rural Settlement
and Settlement Area. The Core Area is found on the west and southcentral portions of
the study area. The Linkage Area is found on the east side of the study area, as well as
south of the Core Area in the south-central portion of the study area (Figure 4).
Natural heritage features recorded for the study area also include:
 Provincially Significant Musselman Lake Wetland Complex;
 Provincially Significant East Musselman Lake Wetland Complex;
 Musselman Lake Kettles Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI) – Life
Science;
 Musselman Lake Kettle Complex ANSI – Earth Science;
 Musselman Lake Environmentally Significant Area (ESA) ANSI – Life Science;
 Musselman Lake ESA;
 Vivian Infiltration ESA; and
 a number of locally significant wetlands.
It should be noted that the Musselman Lake Kettles ANSI (Life Science) overlies the
northern portion of the Musselman Lake Kettle ANSI (Earth Science).
The designated natural areas are shown on Figure 2 and are described in more detail
below, with information obtained from the NHIC (2011). Although the names and text on
many of the wetlands identify them as bogs, the ELC mapping done by Beacon and
LSRCA (2007) classifies them as fens. Their report reads:
“Although the word ‘Bog’ is often attached to wetlands as part of their
proper name (e.g., Wilfred Bog), no more than a handful of wetlands
actually meet the very precise definition for this very rare wetland type
within the watershed; only 25 ha of true bogs have been identified within
the Lake Simcoe Watershed” (Beacon and LSRCA 2007, p. 22).
Provincially Significant Musselman Lake Wetland Complex
This wetland complex is provincially significant and is composed of bog, swamp, and
marsh, with primarily organic soils. Colonial nesting blue herons (Ardea herodias) have
been recorded from the wetland. The wetland also provides locally significant winter
cover for deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and raccoon (Procyon lotor), as well as providing
habitat for various other fur bearers including muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), beaver
(Castor canadensis), and mink (Mustela vison) (NHIC 2010). It is approximately 50ha in
area. The Musselman’s Lake Subwatershed report (LSRCA 2009) reports fen
communities from the wetland complex, as opposed to bog communities. 3.7ha are
described as open fen wetland.
Provincially Significant East Musselman Lake Wetland Complex
This provincially significant wetland complex is made up of 17 individual wetlands
containing swamp, marsh, and bog communities. It is 11.2ha in area and was combined
with the Ballantrae Bogs wetland complex in 1998 (Gartner Lee 2000).
7
Musselman Lake Kettles ANSI – Life Science
This provincially significant Life Science ANSI overlies the northern portion of the
Musselman Lake Kettle Complex ANSI (Earth Science). The area contains waterfowl
habitat as designated by the MNR (Fox 1983).
Musselman Lake Kettle Complex ANSI – Earth Science
This is a provincially significant Earth Science ANSI which provides an excellent
example of kettle topography. This site is “very significant” as it is used for the
interpretation of the ice lobes during the Port Huron Stadial (Fox 1983, p. 5). The kettle
lakes are well developed with deep contours and extend over a large area. The kettles
in this area mark the northern extent of Lake Ontario ice (NHIC 2010). The ANSI
occupies 258ha (Gartner Lee 2000).
Musselman Lake Environmentally Significant Area ANSI – Life Science
This provincially significant Life Science Site is located to the southeast of the
community of Ballantrae. This area was chosen as the best example of a kettle wetland
complex remaining on the Oak Ridges Moraine for its large size and diversity, including
48 regionally significant plants. The adjacent upland forests on typical rolling moraine
topography are representative of the Oak Ridges Moraine (Lindsay 1983).
Musselman Lake ESA
The Musselman Lake ESA includes the northwestern portion of the Musselman Lake
ESA ANSI and the major portion of the provincially significant Musselman Lake Wetland
Complex. It also includes two small portions of the Musselman Lake Kettles ANSI (Life
Science). The ESA report describes three separate bogs, all located in the headwater
area of the Holland River. The soils are described as Muck, which is very poorly
drained, well decomposed organic material. The largest bog, located east of Highway
48, is drained in the spring by an intermittent stream. The bog is donut shaped, with a
ring of sphagnum moss encircling a small pond of open water. The central wetland,
located west of Ninth Line, is a floating bog, covered mostly in leatherleaf
(Chamaedaphne calyculata). The eastern wetland is a treed bog surrounded by treed
hummocks. The bogs are good examples of wetlands generally found in the boreal
system (Ecologistics 1982).
Vivian Infiltration Environmentally Significant Area
This large ESA (5,800ha) is a significant infiltration area contributing groundwater to
various coldwater streams. It also provides groundwater input to the Oak Ridges
Moraine aquifer complex. Most of the area is heavily wooded or contains cultural
meadows. The topography is rolling, but relatively flat at the peak of the moraine near
Ballantrae. The ESA consists of ice-contact stratified drift on the ORM, made up of fine
to coarse sand at least 6m in depth, with very little gravel (Ecologistics 1982). This ESA
covers the entire northern portion of the study area.
Locally Significant Wetlands
The study area also contains several locally significant wetlands as shown on Figure 2.
The Ballantrae Sand Plain Earth Science Site and Oak Ridges Moraine Till Section
Earth Science Site are mentioned in some past reports, as well as the Official Plan.
These names are outdated and the areas have been incorporated into wetlands and
ANSIs when natural areas mapping was revised on the Oak Ridges Moraine (Followes
2011).
8
Natural Feature Conservation Areas are designated on Schedule E, and Natural Feature
Enhancement Areas are identified on Appendix A of the Secondary Plan for the
Ballantrae-Musselman Lake area (Section 11 of the Official Plan). The Natural Feature
Conservation Area designation includes lands identified as Areas of Natural and
Scientific Interest (ANSI), Environmentally Significant Areas (ESA), wetlands, kettle
lakes, regional forests, upland hardwoods, conifer plantations, existing public parkland,
undeveloped areas adjacent to kettle lakes, lands along the East Branch of the Holland
River, and a linkage between Musselman Lake and the ANSI to the east. The purpose
of the Natural Feature Conservation Areas designation is to protect and enhance these
key natural features in accordance with the policies of the Oak Ridges Moraine
Conservation Plan. The Underlying Natural Feature Conservation Area designation
recognizes natural features (i.e. sand plain, moraine feature) under an existing
residential subdivision and active extractive industrial area. The purpose of the
designation is to protect the natural features, while recognizing the existing
development.
Additional lands were mapped as Natural Feature Enhancement Areas on Appendix A of
the Secondary Plan. These lands were identified in the Natural Features Conservation
and Management Plan prepared as a basis for the Secondary Plan as lands contributing
to natural systems and processes, as well as providing a linkage between major natural
features, and include intermittent streams and swales. The Secondary Plan states these
areas should be considered for protection and enhancement.
York Region owns several woodlands in the area. Forests managed by the Region
undergo silvicultural and hazard tree management, and are important for
educational initiatives. They are managed in a sustainable manner to enhance their
ecological, educational, and recreational functions, and to ensure their health into the
future (York Region 2009).
3.3 Vegetation
3.3.1 Vascular Flora
Detailed vegetation inventories were beyond the scope of this study. A search of the
study area on the NHIC Biodiversity Explorer (2011) for all 1km squares covering the
study area listed no significant vegetation species. Table 1 lists the significant species
reported from the study area and vicinity from various background reports, and whether
or not they may have been reported from the Secondary Plan study area.
3.3.2 Vegetation Communities
The natural vegetation within the study area was previously classified broadly into ELC
Community Series by Beacon and the LSRCA (2007). These classifications were
verified by NRSI in August 2011 during field work and review of the August 2011 oblique
aerial photography. The ELC mapping is shown on Figure 4. The study area contains
large areas of natural features, most of which fall within the Natural Core or Natural
Linkage designations of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. The deciduous
forest communities (FOD) are dominated by sugar maple (Acer saccharum ssp.
saccharum) with various associations, usually dominated by white ash (Fraxinus
9
americana) or trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides). Many red pine (Pinus resinosa)
plantations (CUP) are located throughout the study area. Most of these plantations are
in various stages of naturalization, with few remaining as a pure plantation. The
plantations are naturalizing with sugar maple, white ash, and trembling aspen. Where
former plantations are in a high degree of naturalization, they have been classified as a
mixed forest (FOM). The study area also contains large areas of cultural meadow
(CUM), dominated by a variety of herbaceous species, particularly goldenrod (Solidago
species) and asters (Symphyotrichum species) which were observed in late August
during the field survey.
The study area also contains extensive areas of wetlands which are either provincially or
locally significant. Wetland communities were classified as deciduous swamp (SWD),
coniferous swamp (SWC), mixed swamp (SWM), thicket swamp (SWT), meadow marsh
(MAM), shallow marsh (MAS), mixed shallow aquatic (SAM), open fen (FEO), shrub fen
(FES), or submerged shallow aquatic (SAS) by Beacon and the LSRCA (2007).
10
COSSARO
1
Common
Name
SRANK
Scientific
Name
COSEWIC
2
3
Table 1. Significant Plants Reported From the Study Area Vicinity
Local
4 Source
Status
Kalmia polifolia Bog Laurel
S5
R8
Lycopodium
annotiunum
Stiff Clubmoss
S5
R5
Panax
quinquefolius
American
Ginseng
S3
E
END
Platanthera
leucophaea
Eastern
Prairie
Fringed
Orchid
S2
E
END
Viburnum
lantanoides
Hobblebush
S5
Viola striata
Cream Violet
S3
1
2
3
4
Comment
LSRCA 2009 Reported from
Musselman Lake PSW
complex. May be found
within current study area.
Found in bogs and
6
swamps.
Ecologistics Reported from the
1982
Mussleman Lake ESA, it
is found in moist forests
and thickets.
R4
Gartner Lee Reported from within
2000
Whitchurch-Stouffville by
NHIC, but outside current
study area, as not
reported from any
sources from within the
study area. Grows in
moist deciduous woods,
especially on rocky,
5
shaded slopes.
R1 LSRCA 2010 Reported from the East
Holland Subwatershed.
Found in fens, wet
meadows, marshes, and
5
prairies. May be found in
study area based on
habitat preferences.
R10 LSRCA 2009 Reported from
Musselman Lake PSW
Found in damp woods,
cool shaded ravines, and
6
thickets.
LSRCA 2009 Reported from
Musselman Lake PSW
Found in rich floodplain
forests and low, wet
5
woods.
5
6
NHIC 2010; COSEWIC 2013; MNR 2013; Varga et al. 2000; MNR 2000; Soper and Heimburger 1994.
11
Legend
Provincial Rank
(SRANK)
S1 - Critically Imperiled
S2 - Imperiled
S3 - Vulnerable
S4 - Apparently Secure
S5 - Secure
COSEWIC
NAR - Not at Risk
SC - Special
Concern
T - Threatened
E - Endangered
COSSARO
NAR - Not at Risk
SC - Special
Concern
THR - Threatened
END - Endangered
Local Status
R# - number of
stations for a rare
native species
12
FOM
FOD
FOD
CUW
FOD
FOD
FOM
FOM
CUP
FOD
CUM
FOD FOD
CUP
FOD
FOC
CUM
CUP
FOD
CUP
CUP
CUW
CUM
CUP
CUT
FOD
OAO
SWD
SWD
CUW
SWM
48
Highway
SWC
FOD
SWD
FOD
CUW
SWD
SWT
FOD
SWM
MAM
FOD
SAM
SWD MAS
FOM
CUM
CUM
FOD
SWD
MAS
FOD
CUP
CUW
SWD
SAS
SWD
CUT
FOD
MAS
CUW
CUT
FOC
FOM
Ecological Land Classification
Legend
Coniferous Forest (FOC)
Cultural Meadow (CUM)
Mixed Shallow Aquatic (SAM)
Parcel Fabric
Mixed Forest (FOM)
Cultural Savannah (CUS)
Shrub Fen (FES)
ORM Natural Linkage Area
Coniferous Swamp (SWC)
Deciduous Swamp (SWD)
Mixed Swamp (SWM)
Thicket Swamp (SWT)
Cultural Thicket (CUT)
Cultural Woodland (CUW)
Meadow Marsh (MAM)
Shallow Marsh (MAS)
FOD
FOD
Hillsdale Drive
CUM
Cultural Plantation (CUP)
SAS
MAM
CUP
CUM
SAM
MAS
SAS
MAS FOD
CUT CUP
SWT
FOD
Deciduous Forest (FOD)
CUP
CUT
MAM
CUM
SWM
SAS
FOD
CUM
MAS
SAS FEO
SWT
FOD
SWT
SWT
OAO
SWT
February 2012
SAS
SAS
SAS
CUT
SAM
Figure 4
Vegetation Communities
FOM
SWM
FOM
SWT
SWD
CUP OAO
CUT
CUM MAM
FOD
Vandorf Sideroad
FOC
FOM
MAS
MAS
CUP
SWT
OAO
MAS
CUW
CUP
FOD
SAS
CUP
FOD
CUT
OAO
FOM
FOC
OAO
SWD
MAS
SAS
SWC
CUM
Ninth Line
CUW
FEO
FOD
FOD
SWD
SAM
CUP
CUM
FOD
FOC
OAO
Aurora Road
CUP
CUW
CUP
FOD
FOC
FOC
CUP
CUP
Aurora Road
FOM
FOM
FOD
FOD
FOD
FOD
FOM
Highway
CUP
FOD
48
CUW
FOM FOM
York/Durham Line
CUW
MAS
FOD
CUP
York/Durham Line
CUM
CUW
Ninth Lin
e
FOD
CUP
CUP
CUP
FOD
Open Fen (FEO)
Submerged Shallow Aquatic (SAS)
Open Water (OAO)
ORM Natural Core Area
LSRCA Watercourse
Road Network
0
250
500
1,000 m
4.0 Wildlife
4.1 Birds
A list of all birds known from the study area is included in Appendix I. This includes 137
species known from the two OBBA (BSC et al. 2006) squares that cover the study area,
as well as several background reports (Beacon and LSRCA 2007, Gartner Lee 2000,
LSRCA 2010). The significant species known from the study area are listed in Table 2.
Based on the habitat preferences of each species, all of the species may be found within
the study area.
Table 2. Significant Bird Species Known from the Vicinity of the Study Area
Scientific Name
Common
Name
Cardellina
canadensis
Canada
Warbler
S4B
T
SC
Chaetura
pelagica
Chimney
Swift
S4B,
S4N
T
THR
Contopus virens Eastern
WoodPewee
S4B
SC
SC
Dolichonyx
oryzivorus
Bobolink
S4B
T
THR
Hirundo rustica
Barn
Swallow
S4B
T
THR
1
2
3
SRANK COSEWIC COSSARO Habitat Preference
4
Dense, mixed coniferous,
deciduous forests with
closed canopy, wet
bottomlands of cedar or
alder; shrubby undergrowth
in cool moist mature
woodlands; riparian habitat;
usually requires at least
30ha.
Commonly found in urban
areas near buildings; nests
in hollow trees, crevices of
rock cliffs, chimneys; highly
gregarious; feeds over open
water.
Open, deciduous, mixed or
coniferous forest;
predominated by oak with
little understory; forest
clearings, edges; farm
woodlots, parks.
Large, open expansive
grasslands with dense
ground cover; hayfields,
meadows or fallow fields;
marshes; requires tracts of
grassland >50ha.
Farmlands or rural areas;
cliffs, caves, rock niches;
buildings or other manmade structures for nesting;
open country near body of
water.
14
Scientific Name
Common
Name
Hylocichla
mustelina
Wood
Thrush
S4B
T
THR
Ixobrychus exilis Least
Bittern
S4B
T
THR
Lanius
ludovicianus
Loggerhead
Shrike
S2B
E (ssp.
migrans)
END
Melanerpes
erythrocephalus
Redheaded
Woodpecke
r
S4B
T
SC
Rallus elegans
King Rail
S2B
E
END
Setophaga
cerulea
Cerulean
Warbler
S3B
SC
SC
Setophaga
discolor
Prairie
Warbler
S3B
NAR
NAR
1
2
3
4
Undisturbed moist mature
deciduous or mixed forest
with deciduous sapling
growth; near pond or
swamp; hardwood forest
edges; must have some
trees higher than 12m.
Deep marshes, swamps,
bogs; marshy borders of
lakes, ponds, streams,
ditches; dense emergent
vegetation of cattail,
bulrush, sedge; nests in
cattails.
Grazed pasture, marginal
farmland with scattered
hawthorn shrubs,
hedgerows; fence posts,
wires and associated lowlying wetland; probably
needs at least 25ha of
suitable habitat.
Open, deciduous forest with
little understory; fields or
pasture lands with scattered
large trees; wooded
swamps; orchards, small
woodlots or forest edges;
groves of dead or dying
trees; requires cavity trees
with at least 40cm dbh;
require about 4ha territory.
Large, shallow, fresh water
marshes, shrubby swamps,
marshy borders of lakes and
ponds with abundant
vegetation; territories are
0.3 to 0.5ha.
Mature deciduous
woodland, sometimes
coniferous; swamps or
bottomlands with large
trees; area sensitive
species needing extensive
areas of forest (>100ha).
Scrub-land; mixed pine-oak
barrens; old pastures;
hillsides with scattered red
cedars; avoids thick woods
and benefits from cutting
and burning of forests.
15
Scientific Name
Common
Name
1
2
3
Sturnella magna Eastern
Meadowlark
S4B
T
THR
Vermivora
chrysoptera
S4B
T
SC
1
Goldenwinged
Warbler
2
3
4
Open, grassy meadows,
farmland, pastures,
hayfields or grasslands with
elevated singing perches;
cultivated land and weedy
areas with trees; old
orchards with adjacent,
open grassy areas >10ha in
size.
Early successional habitat;
shrubby, grassy abandoned
fields with small deciduous
trees bordered by low
woodland and wooded
swamps; alder bogs;
deciduous, damp woods;
shrubbery clearings in
deciduous woods with
saplings and grasses; brierwoodland edges; requires
>10ha of habitat.
4
NHIC 2010; COSEWIC 2013; MNR 2013; MNR 2000.
Legend
Provincial Rank
(SRANK)
S2 - Imperiled
S3 - Vulnerable
S5 - Secure
COSEWIC
NAR - Not at Risk
SC - Special Concern
T - Threatened
E - Endangered
COSSARO
NAR - Not at Risk
THR - Threatened
END - Endangered
4.2 Herpetofauna
According to the Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (Ontario Nature 2013), 16 species of
herpetofauna have been reported from the vicinity of the study area including 2 species
of turtle, 4 species of snake, 2 species of salamander, and 8 species of frogs and toads.
3 of the snake observations date prior to 1993 and are therefore considered historical.
Appendix II lists the herpetofauna reported from the study area.
Table 3 lists the Species at Risk reported from the Atlas (Ontario Nature 2013): snapping
turtle (Chelydra serpentina serpentina), milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum), and
western chorus frog (Pseudacris triseriata). Based on habitat preference, all of these
species may be found within the study area. Milksnake was the only significant species
reported for the study area from the NHIC Biodiversity Explorer (2010). It is found in
agricultural areas, meadows, a variety of forests, river bottoms and bog woods (MNR
2000).
16
4.3 Mammals
Twenty-four mammal species have been reported from the vicinity of the study area
based on the Mammal Atlas of Ontario (Dobbyn 1994). A complete list of mammal
species reported from the study area and their current status is included in Appendix III.
Little myotis (Myotis lucifugus), a bat species, is considered endangered in Canada
(COSEWIC 2013) and Ontario (MNR 2013). This species is facing the extreme threat of
extirpation because of white-nose syndrome, a fungal infection causing death in almost
every bat it infects. This disease was first discovered in North America in 2006, and it
has been determined that it originated in Europe.
4.4 Fish
A complete list of fish known from the study area is listed in Table 4. Electrofishing
undertaken by boat in Musselman Lake in 2007 revealed the lake has a diverse
warmwater top level predator fishery (LSRCA 2009). LSRCA (2009) reports that
Cyprinid (minnow) species have been reported from Musselman Lake in the past and
are very likely found in the lake, but were not caught by boat electrofishing in 2007.
Black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) is the only non-native species. One Species at
Risk, redside dace (Clinostomus elongatus), was reported from within WhitchurchStouffville (Gartner Lee 2000) and the East Holland Subwatershed (LSRCA 2010). This
species is listed as endangered in Ontario (MNR 2013) and Canada (COSEWIC 2013).
Redside dace is known from relatively small, clear headwater streams with pool and riffle
habitats having abundant overhanging vegetation, usually found in meadows, pasture,
and shrub habitats (COSEWIC 2007). This species was not reported from within the
study area by NHIC (2010).
17
1
COSSARO
3
COSEWIC
S3
SC
SC
Eastern
Milksnake
S3
SC
SC
Western
Chorus Frog
S3
T
NAR
1
SRANK
2
Table 3. Herpetofaunal Species at Risk Reported From the Study Area
SCIENTIFIC
NAME
Chelydra
serpentina
serpentina
COMMON
NAME
Common
Snapping
Turtle
Lampropeltis
triangulum
triangulum
Pseudacris
triseriata pop. 2
(Gr. Lakes/St.
Lawrence Canadian
Shield
Population)
2
3
4
Habitat Preference
Permanent, semipermanent fresh water;
marshes, swamps or
bogs; rivers and streams
with soft muddy banks or
bottoms; often uses soft
soil or clean dry sand on
south-facing slopes for
nest sites; may nest at
some distance from
water.
Farmlands, meadows,
hardwood or aspen
stands; pine forest with
brushy or woody cover;
river bottoms or bog
woods; hides under logs,
stones, or boards or in
outbuildings; often uses
communal nest sites.
Roadside ditches or
temporary ponds in fields;
swamps or wet
meadows; woodland or
open country with cover
and moisture; small
ponds and temporary
pools.
4
NHIC 2010; COSEWIC 2013; MNR 2013; MNR 2000.
Legend
Provincial Rank
(SRANK)
S2 - Imperiled
S3 - Vulnerable
S5 - Secure
COSEWIC
NAR - Not at Risk
T - Threatened
E - Endangered
SARO
NAR - Not at Risk
THR - Threatened
END - Endangered
18
Table 4. Fish Species Known From the Study Area
Scientific Name
Common Name
SRANK
Ambloplites rupestris
Rock Bass
S5
Ameiurus nebulosus
Brown Bullhead
S5
Campostoma anomalum
Central Stoneroller
S4
Catostomus commersonii
White Sucker
S5
Clinostomus elongatus
Redside Dace
S2
Esox lucius
Northern Pike
S5
Lepomis gibbosus
Pumpkinseed
S5
Micropterus dolomieu
Smallmouth Bass
S5
Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth Bass
S5
Notemigonus crysoleucas
Golden Shiner
S5
Perca flavescens
Yellow Perch
S5
Pomoxis nigromaculatus
Black Crappie
2
3
NHIC 2010; COSEWIC 2013; MNR 2013.
1
COSEWIC
2
COSSARO
NAR
E
END
S4
1
Legend
Provincial Rank
(SRANK)
S2 - Imperiled
S3 - Vulnerable
S5 - Secure
COSEWIC
NAR - Not at Risk
T - Threatened
E - Endangered
COSSARO
NAR - Not at Risk
THR - Threatened
END - Endangered
19
3
5.0
Natural Heritage System
5.1
What is a Natural Heritage System?
A natural heritage system is defined as follows:
“A system made up of natural features and areas, linked by natural corridors
which are necessary to maintain biological and geological diversity, natural
functions, viable populations of indigenous species and ecosystems. These
systems can include lands that have been restored and areas with the potential
to be restored to a natural state” (Provincial Policy Statement 2005).
The MNR provides guidance in identification of a natural heritage system in their Natural
Heritage Reference Manual (MNR 2010). Using the MNR approach, the fundamental
components of a natural heritage system consist of cores and linkages. Core areas are
generally the building blocks of the natural heritage system and consist of large natural
areas which perform vital ecological functions, such as provincially significant wetlands
and significant woodlands. Cores are identified based on a number of aspects including
size, integrity, shape, rare species and other significant designations, as well as other
factors. Linkages, or corridors, are components of the natural heritage system that allow
movement of wildlife and plant species. Methods and criteria for identifying core areas
and linkages have been well researched and are documented in numerous publications
(Environment Canada 2004, MNR 1999, MNR 2010, Ontario Nature 2004). One aspect
of identifying cores and linkages, is the need to consider the local context and landscape
scale of the planning area. For example Environment Canada (2004) provides the
guideline that a watershed should have at least one 200ha forest patch which is a
minimum of 500m in width. Therefore, it is key to understand the landscape in and
around the study area when identifying natural heritage systems.
5.2
How was the Study Area Natural Heritage System Developed?
The study area Natural Heritage System (NHS) is based on the natural features present
within the study area which were confirmed through field work and oblique air photo
interpretation, as well as the boundaries of the pre-existing natural heritage feature
designations. These pre-existing designations include:

The Natural Heritage System for the Lake Simcoe Watershed (Beacon and
LSRCA 2007) which based its NHS on the Provincial Policy Statement (2005)
components: significant habitat of endangered and threatened species;
significant wetlands; significant woodlands; significant valleylands; significant
wildlife habitat; significant Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI); and fish
habitat. The Lake Simcoe NHS (Beacon and LSRCA 2007) also added linkages.

The Great Lakes Conservation Blueprint (Henson and Brodribb 2005) is a largescale natural heritage system analysis of the Great Lakes Region that identifies
specific areas that will help conserve biodiversity. The Blueprint maps protected
areas, natural heritage lands, and priority stewardship lands by ecodistrict. It
also provides charts with detailed information about species and vegetation
communities to be protected. The Ballantrae-Musselman Lake study area falls
within the Uxbrdige Ecodistrict 6E-7 of the Blueprint.
20

Natural feature mapping included in the Town’s Official Plan was reviewed and
included where it was verified that it included a natural area as opposed to a
developed park or other developed area (e.g. residential neighbourhood).
Official Plan mapping includes Natural Feature Conservation Areas and
Underlying Natural Feature Conservation Areas (Schedule E), Key Natural
Heritage and Hydrologically Sensitive Features (Schedule H), and Natural
Features Enhancement Areas (Secondary Plan Appendix A).

The study area NHS includes both Life Science ANSI (Musselman Lake ESA,
Musselman Lake Kettles), and both PSW complexes (Musselman Lake, East
Musselman Lake). It also contains a large portion of the Musselman Lake Kettle
Complex Earth Science ANSI. The ORM Natural Core Area and ORM Natural
Linkage Area is included wherever it corresponded to natural features. Streams
were included where they were mapped by the LSRCA1 and confirmed in the
field. Watercourses provide an excellent opportunity to create linkages between
natural features that would otherwise be separated.
Additional guidance was provided by the Oak Ridges Moraine Technical Papers (MMAH
et al. undated) which provide direction on implementing the Oak Ridges Moraine
Conservation Plan. The guidelines established for identifying key natural heritage
features (Technical Paper 1) and significant woodlands (Technical Paper 7) were used
to establish the NHS and more particularly the buffers within the Ballantrae-Musselman
Lake study area. Guidelines differ depending on whether the natural feature falls within
an ORM Core or Linkage Area, or within an ORM Countryside or Settlement Area.
Significant woodlands are identified as:
 any forest 4ha or greater in size in the Countryside or Settlement Area, and
 any forest 0.5ha or greater in size in the Core or Linkage Area.
This includes the plantations within the study area.
5.3
Establishment of Buffers
Buffers are areas of permanent vegetation surrounding a natural heritage feature in
order to protect the feature and its functions by mitigating the impacts of adjacent land
use. Where buffers are unvegetated at their establishment, they are restored to a
natural state through seeding and/or planting. Typically buffers are required around
woodlands, wetlands and watercourses. Woodland buffers are prescribed based on
protecting the trees and their root zones, as well as allowing an area for edge trees and
limbs to fall without damaging personal property. Aquatic and wetland buffers are
required to protect feature, form and function, as well as the species that inhabit them.
The Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan specifies minimum vegetation protection
zones (i.e. buffers) for key natural heritage features.
1
Watercourse mapping received from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority differs
from that received from York Region and the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. According to field
checks, mapping from the LSRCA is more accurate and was therefore used in the NHS mapping
completed for this report.
21
The following buffers are recommended:
 A 30m buffer from either side of the watercourse becomes part of the NHS, to
remain consistent with ORM (MMAH 2002) and Greenbelt Plan (MMAH 2005)
policies, and the Town’s Official Plan.
 A 30m significant woodland buffer is implemented for the same reasons (MMAH
2002, MMAH 2005), which is measured from the trunk of the outermost trees
(MMAH et al. undated).
 Cultural woodlands and non-significant woodlands are given a more modest
buffer of 10m, measured from the dripline of the trees, which is a standard used
by many municipalities.
 A buffer is not required for cultural meadows (CUM) or cultural thickets (CUT).
 Wetlands have a buffer of 30m, which is consistent with the ORM, Greenbelt
Plan, and Official Plan.
5.4
The Natural Heritage System
The proposed NHS and its buffers are shown on Figure 5. Buffers were mapped as
explained above; however, where existing development abuts a natural feature, buffer
widths were modified. The following modifications were made:
 Significant woodland buffers were reduced to 10m adjacent to existing
development.
 Buffers on streams were reduced to 15m adjacent to existing development.
 Musselman Lake was given a buffer of 15m because of adjacent development.
 Buffers were eliminated adjacent to roads.
The proposed NHS is clarified on Figure 6 and Table 5, describing the rationale behind
the NHS boundary and buffer widths. The numbers in the figure correspond to numbers
in the table. The asterix (*) identifies the feature that prescribed the NHS boundary.
The proposed NHS will protect ecological features and functions into the future. Species
movement and sustainability is ensured through a connected system both within the
study area and to natural features outside the study area boundaries. The NHS will
provide a wide range of benefits to the residents of Ballantrae and Musselman Lake,
such as clean air, clean water, recreational opportunities, flood attenuation and erosion
control, as well as nature appreciation.
22
York/Durham Line
Ninth Lin
e
48
Highway
Aurora Road
Aurora Road
Highway
48
McKewon
(Shadow)
Lake
Island
Lake
Stanley
Lake
Staly
Lake
Windsor
Lake
Vandorf Sideroad
Figure 5
March 2013
York/Durham Line
Ninth Line
Musselman
Lake
Hillsdale Drive
Legend
LSRCA Watercourse
Waterbody
0
250
500
1,000 m
Buffer (varies between 10 and 30m)
Core NHS
±
48
76
10
11
14
13
48
12
48
16
18
Figure 6
Establishment
February 2013
17
20
21
22
25
Highway
15
19
50
49
41
43
Vandorf Sideroad
74
51
Aurora Road
9
75
41
54
47
44
45
39
37
38
33
34
24
26
70
Aurora Road
Island
Lake
60
62
Stanley
McKewon
Lake
(Shadow)
Lake
63
64
Staly
Lake
Musselman
Lake
35
30
72
65
31
23
61
56
34
36
32
69
53
46
42
40
55
71
58
73
66
Windsor
Lake
29
28
68
Hillsdale Drive
67
York/Durham Line
7
8
58
Ninth Line
6
57
52
Highway
5
59
York/Durham Line
1
Ninth Lin
e
3
4
2
27
Legend
LSRCA Watercourse
Waterbody
0
250
500
1,000 m
Buffer (varies between 10 and 30m)
Core NHS
±
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24


Buffer (m)
Adjacent
Development
Natural Feature
Enhancement Area
Natural Feature
Conservation Area
Meadow / Thicket
Wetland
Watercourse
Forest
Significant
Woodland
Settlement
Linkage
Core
#
Countryside
ORM
Designated Natural
Feature
Table 5. Natural Heritage System Establishment
*
30
0


*
30

*
10


*
10


*
10


0
NHS boundary cuts through old field to bulk up core area, thereby increasing interior to edge
ratio, and to include more of the Natural Feature Enhancement Area.


*
30




*
10




*
0

*
ANSI
0



*
ANSI
10


*
0





*
10
Locally




*
significant
30
wetland


0

*
30
Locally


*
significant
30
wetland


*
30
Locally



*
significant
30
wetland




*
10/15
15m buffer adjacent to wetland.
Locally




*
significant
30
wetland
Locally



significant
*
10
wetland



*
10+
Feature is 3.83ha in size. 10m buffer from woodland, 30m buffer from internal wetland.
This isolated feature contains a wetland (meadow marsh), surrounded by deciduous forest.
Although not verified, the wetland likely contains amphibian breeding habitat. The wetland
has a buffer of 30m, but as the woodland and its 10m buffer extend beyond the wetland
buffer in most cases. In a few cases the wetland buffer extends past the forest buffer. It is
anticipated that the proposed buffer is sufficient to protect breeding amphibians within this
wetland.
*

25
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56



PSW
PSW


ANSI

ANSI*




30
30
0
30
15
0
10
15
10

15

15





Natural Feature
Conservation Area

*
*

*


Buffer (m)
Adjacent
Development


ANSI
*
*
Natural Feature
Enhancement Area


Natural Feature
Conservation Area


Designated Natural
Feature

Meadow / Thicket

Wetland


*


*
*
Watercourse
Forest
Settlement
Significant
Woodland
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
Linkage
Core
#
Countryside
ORM
PSW*

15m buffer from wetland boundary/watercourse whichever is greater.
Musselman L.


ANSI,



*
PSW


ANSI*
ANSI,






*
PSW






*



*
10m buffer from forest, 15m buffer from wetland boundary.


*


*


*



*
Locally



*
significant
wetland

*

*

*

*
Vivian



*
Infiltration
ESA
Vivian
Natural Feature


*
Infiltration
Conservation Area
ESA


ANSI*



ANSI*


ANSI*



ANSI*
30
0
30
*









10
30
10/15
30
15
30
15

30



30
10
30
10


10

10

15
30
10
30
26
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
Vivian

Infiltration
ESA

Vivian




Infiltration
ESA


*
ANSI
ANSI


PSW*
ANSI





*
PSW
15m buffer from wetland boundary or 10m buffer from forest whichever is greater.


*
ANSI



ANSI
*


*
ANSI




*
ANSI




*
ANSI


*


*
ANSI
Vivian




*
Infiltration
ESA
Vivian



*
Infiltration
ESA
Vivian




*
Infiltration
ESA
Vivian




*
Infiltration
ESA
Vivian



*
Infiltration
ESA
Vivian



*
Infiltration
*
ESA



*
Vivian



Infiltration *
ESA



Buffer (m)
Adjacent
Development
Natural Feature
Enhancement Area
Natural Feature
Conservation Area
Designated Natural
Feature
Meadow / Thicket
Wetland
Watercourse
Forest
Significant
Woodland
Settlement
Linkage
Core
#
Countryside
ORM
30
10
30
30
10
30
10
30
10
0
30
0
10
30
10
10
30
10
10
10
27
6.0
References
Beacon Environmental and the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA).
2007. Natural Heritage System for the Lake Simcoe Watershed, Phase 1:
Components and Policy Templates. Prepared for the Lake Simcoe Region
Conservation Authority and the Lake Simcoe Environmental Management Strategy.
Bird Studies Canada, Environment Canada's Canadian Wildlife Service, Ontario Nature,
Ontario Field Ornithologists and Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2006.
Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas Website. Information for squares: 17PJ37 and 17PJ47.
Available online at: http://www.birdsontario.org/atlas/index.jsp
Chapman, L.J., and D.F. Putnam. 1984. The Physiography of Southern Ontario 3rd
Edition. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Toronto, Ontario. Special Volume
(Ontario Geological Survey) 2.
COSEWIC. 2007. COSEWIC Assessment and Update Status Report on the Redside
Dace Clinostomus elongatus in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered
Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa.
COSEWIC. 2013. Database of Wildlife Species Assessed by COSEWIC. Last updated
March 4, 2013. Available online at:
http://www.cosewic.gc.ca/eng/sct1/searchform_e.cfm
Dobbyn, J.S. 1994. Atlas of the Mammals of Ontario. Federation of Ontario Naturalists.
Ecologistics Limited. 1982. Environmentally Significant Areas Study. South Lake
Simcoe Conservation Authority.
Environment Canada. 2004. How Much Habitat is Enough, Second Edition. Published by
the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 2004. Available
online at: http://www.on.ec.gc.ca/wildlife/docs/habitatframework-e.html
Followes, E. 2011. Emma Followes, Stewardship Specialist, Aurora District MNR.
Email communication September 27, 2011 with Katharina Walton, NRSI.
Fox, T. 1983. Summary of Ownership, Ministry Program Interests, Planning Status and
Management Strategies in the Musselman Lake Kettle Complex Natural Area,
Regional Municipalities of York and Durham. Parks and Recreation Section,
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Central Region, Richmond Hill.
Gartner Lee Ltd. 2000. Whitchurch-Stouffville Natural Features & Greenlands Study.
August 2000. Prepared for the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville.
Henson, B.L. and K.E. Brodribb. 2005. Great Lakes Conservation Blueprint for
Terrestrial Biodiversity. Volume 2 Ecodistrict Summaries. Nature Conservancy
of Canada and Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
28
Hoffman, D.W. and N.R. Richards. 1955. Soil Survey of York County. Report No. 19 of
the Ontario Soil Survey. Experimental Farms Service, Canadian Department of
Agriculture and the Ontario Agricultural College. Guelph, Ontario. Available online:
http://sis.agr.gc.ca/cansis/publications/on/on19/intro.html#report
Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA). 2009. Musselman’s Lake
Subwatershed Assessment and Stewardship Opportunities Report. March 31, 2009
Final Draft.
Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA). 2010. East Holland
Subwatershed Plan.
Lee, H. 2008. Southern Ontario Ecological Land Classification - Vegetation Type
List. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources: London, Ontario.
Lee, H.T., W.D. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig and S.
McMurray.1998. Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First
Approximation and its Application. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources,
Southcentral Science Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch. SCSS
Field Guide FG-02.
Lindsay, K.M. 1983. A Reconnaissance Biological Inventory and Evaluation of the
Musselman Lake Complex in the Regional Municipality of York, Ontario. Parks
and Recreation Section, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Central Region,
Richmond Hill.
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). 2002. Oak Ridges Moraine
Conservation Plan. Available online: http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page1707.aspx
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). 2005. Greenbelt Plan. Available
online: http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page189.aspx#intro
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). 2009. The Oak Ridges Moraine.
Last modified November 10, 2009. Available Online:
http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page322.aspx
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH), Ministry of the Environment (MOE),
and Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). Undated. Oak Ridges Moraine
Conservation Plan Technical Paper Series. Available online:
http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page4808.aspx
Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 1999. Natural Heritage Reference Manual for
Policy 2.3 of the Provincial Policy Statement. June 1999.
Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 2000. Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical
Guide: Appendix G.
Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 2008. Technical Paper 2. Technical Definitions
and Criteria for Significant Woodlands in the Natural Heritage System of the
Protected Countryside Area of the Greenbelt Plan (2005).
29
Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 2010. Natural Heritage Reference Manual for
Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, Second Edition. March 18, 2010.
Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 2013. Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List.
Last updated January 24, 2013.
http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/Species/2ColumnSubPage/276722.html
Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC), Ministry of Natural Resources. 2010.
Natural Heritage Information Biodiversity Explorer website. Available online at:
https://www.biodiversityexplorer.mnr.gov.on.ca/nhicWEB/mainSubmit.do
Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. 2001. Guide for Participants. Atlas Management Board,
Federation of Ontario Naturalists, Don Mills.
Ontario Nature. 2004. Suggested Conservation Guidelines for the Identification of
Significant Woodlands in Southern Ontario. Federation of Ontario Naturalists.
Ontario Nature. 2013. Reptiles and Amphibians of Ontario Range Maps. Last Updated
January 2013. Available online at:
http://www.ontarionature.org/protect/species/reptiles_and_amphibians/index.php
Soper, J.H. and M.L. Heimburger. 1994. Shrubs of Ontario. The Royal Ontario
Museum, Ontario.
Stouffville.com. 2011. Whitchurch-Stouffville's Online Directory and Tourism Guide.
Online: www.stoffville.com
York Region. 2009. York Region Official Plan. Online:
http://www.york.ca/Departments/Planning+and+Development/Growth+Management
/default+Growth+Management.htm
30
APPENDIX I
Bird Species Reported From the Study Area
Appendices
Appendix I. Bird Species Reported From the Study Area
Scientific Name
Common Name
Branta canadensis
Cygnus olor
Cygnus buccinator
Aix sponsa
Anas rubripes
Anas platyrhynchos
Lophodytes cucullatus
Ducks, Geese & Swans
Canada Goose
Mute Swan
Trumpeter Swan
Wood Duck
American Black Duck
Mallard
Hooded Merganser
Phasianus colchicus
Bonasa umbellus
Meleagris gallopavo
Partridges, Grouse & Turkeys
Ring-necked Pheasant
Ruffed Grouse
Wild Turkey
Podilymbus podiceps
GREBES
Pied-billed Grebe
SRANK
S5
SNA
S4
S5
S4
S5
S5B, S5N
COSEWIC
COSSARO
OBBA
17PJ37 17PJ47 Reference
CO
CO
NAR
NAR
CO
PO
PR
CO
PR
CO
CO
CO
PO
SNA
S4
S5
PO
CO
PR
PO
CO
CO
S4B, S4N
CO
HERONS & BITTERNS
Ixobrychus exilis
Ardea herodias
Butorides virescens
Least Bittern
Great Blue Heron
Green Heron
S4B
S4B
S4B
Cathartes aura
VULTURES
Turkey Vulture
S5B
Pandion haliaetus
Circus cyaneus
Accipiter striatus
Accipiter cooperii
Accipiter gentilis
Buteo lineatus
Buteo platypterus
Buteo jamaicensis
HAWKS, KITES & EAGLES
Osprey
Northern Harrier
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Cooper's Hawk
Northern Goshawk
Red-shouldered Hawk
Broad-winged Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
S5B
S4B
S5
S4
S4
S4B
S5B
S5
Falco sparverius
CARACARAS & FALCONS
American Kestrel
S4
T
NAR
NAR
NAR
NAR
NAR
Gartner Lee 2000, Beacon
& LSRCA 2007
THR
NAR
NAR
NAR
NAR
NAR
NAR
CO
PO
PR
PR
PO
PR
PO
PO
CO
CO
CO
CO
PR
PO
PR
PO
CO
CO
CO
CO
Gartner Lee 2000
PR
PO
RAILS, GALLINULES & COOTS
Rallus elegans
Rallus limicola
Porzana carolina
Gallinula galeata
King Rail
Virginia Rail
Sora
Common Moorhen
S2B
S5B
S4B
S4B
E
Beacon & LSRCA 2007,
LSRCA 2010
END
PR
PO
PR
CO
Scientific Name
Charadrius vociferus
Common Name
PLOVERS
Killdeer
Actitis macularia
Gallingo delicata
Scolopax minor
SRANK
COSEWIC
COSSARO
OBBA
S5B, S5N
CO
CO
SANDPIPERS & PHALAROPES
Spotted Sandpiper
Wilson's Snipe
American Woodcock
S5
S5B
S4B
CO
PO
PR
PR
PR
CO
Columba livia
Zenaida macroura
PIGEONS & DOVES
Rock Pigeon
Mourning Dove
SNA
S5
CO
CO
PR
PR
Coccyzus americanus
Coccyzus erythropthalmus
CUCKOOS & ANIS
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Black-billed Cuckoo
S4B
S5B
PR
PR
PR
PR
Megascops asio
Bubo virgianus
Strix varia
Asio otus
TYPICAL OWLS
Eastern Screech-Owl
Great Horned Owl
Barred Owl
Long-eared Owl
S4
S4
S5
S4
NAR
PR
CO
PR
CO
CO
Chaetura pelagica
SWIFTS
Chimney Swift
S4B, S4N
T
Archilochus colubris
HUMMINGBIRDS
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Megaceryle alcyon
NAR
NRSI
PO
THR
PR
PO
S5B
CO
PO
KINGFISHERS
Belted Kingfisher
S4B
CO
PR
Melanerpes erythrocephalus
Sphyrapicus varius
Picoides pubescens
Picoides villosus
Colaptes auratus
Dryocopus pileatus
WOODPECKERS
Red-headed Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Pileated Woodpecker
S4B
S5B
S5
S5
S4B
S5
T
PR
CO
CO
CO
CO
PO
PR
CO
CO
PO
Contopus virens
Empidonax alnorum
Empidonax traillii
Empidonax minimus
Sayornis phoebe
Myiarchus crinitus
Tyrannus tyrannus
TYRANT FLYCATCHERS
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Alder Flycatcher
Willow Flycatcher
Least Flycatcher
Eastern Phoebe
Great Crested Flycatcher
Eastern Kingbird
S4B
S5B
S5B
S4B
S5B
S4B
S4B
SC
CO
PR
PO
PR
CO
CO
CO
PR
PR
PO
PO
CO
CO
CO
Gartner Lee 2000
SC
SC
NRSI
SRANK
COSEWIC
Common Name
SHRIKES
Lanius ludovicianus
Loggerhead Shrike
S2B
Vireo flavifrons
Vireo gilvis
Vireo olivaceus
VIREOS
Yellow-throated Vireo
Warbling Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
S4B
S5B
S5B
PO
PR
CO
Cyanocitta cristata
Corvus brachyrhynchos
Corvus corax
CROWS & JAYS
Blue Jay
American Crow
Common Raven
S5
S5B
S5
CO
CO
PO
CO
CO
Eremophila alpestris
LARKS
Horned Lark
S5B
PR
PR
Progne subis
Tachycineta bicolor
Stelgidopteryx serripennis
Riparia riparia
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota
Hirundo rustica
SWALLOWS
Purple Martin
Tree Swallow
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Bank Swallow
Cliff Swallow
Barn Swallow
S4B
S4B
S4B
S4B
S4B
S4B
PO
CO
PR
CO
CO
CO
PO
CO
PO
CO
CO
CO
Poecile atricapillus
CHICKADEES & TITMICE
Black-capped Chickadee
S5
CO
CO
Sitta canadensis
Sitta carolinensis
NUTHATCHES
Red-breasted Nuthatch
White-breasted Nuthatch
S5
S5
CO
CO
PR
PR
Certhia americana
CREEPERS
Brown Creeper
S5B
PR
PR
Troglodytes aedon
Troglodytes hiemalis
Cistothorus platensis
Cistothorus palustris
WRENS
House Wren
Winter Wren
Sedge Wren
Marsh Wren
S5B
S5B
S4B
S4B
CO
PR
PO
PR
PR
CO
Regulus satrapa
KINGLETS
Golden-crowned Kinglet
S5B
CO
PR
E (ssp.
migrans )
T
NAR
COSSARO
OBBA
Scientific Name
Beacon & LSRCA 2007
END
THR
NAR
PR
PR
NRSI
Scientific Name
Sialia sialis
Catharus fuscescens
Catharus guttatus
Hylocichla mustelina
Turdus migratorius
Common Name
THRUSHES
Eastern Bluebird
Veery
Hermit Thrush
Wood Thrush
American Robin
Dumetella carolinensis
Mimus polyglottos
Toxostoma rufum
MOCKINGBIRDS & THRASHERS
Gray Catbird
Northern Mockingbird
Brown Thrasher
Sturnus vulgaris
SRANK
COSEWIC
COSSARO
S5B
S4B
S5B
S4B
S5B
NAR
NAR
OBBA
CO
CO
PR
PR
CO
CO
CO
PR
PR
CO
S4B
S4
S4B
PR
PR
PR
CO
CO
PR
STARLINGS
European Starling
SNA
CO
CO
Bombycilla cedrorum
WAXWINGS
Cedar Waxwing
S5B
CO
PR
Cardellina canadensis
Geothlypis trichas
Geothylpis philadelphia
Mniotilta varia
Seiurus aurocapillus
Parkesia noveboracensis
Setophaga caerulescens
Setophaga cerulea
Setophaga coronata
Setophaga discolor
Setophaga fusca
Setophaga magnolia
Setophaga pensylvanica
Setophaga petechia
Setophaga pinus
Setophaga ruticilla
Setophaga virens
Vermivora chrysoptera
Vermivora chrysoptera x pinus
Vermivora cyanoptera
Vermivora ruficapilla
WOOD-WARBLERS
Canada Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
Mourning Warbler
Black-and-white Warbler
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Cerulean Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Prairie Warbler
Blackburnian Warbler
Magnolia Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Yellow Warbler
Pine Warbler
American Redstart
Black-throated Green Warbler
Golden-winged Warbler
Brewster's Warbler
Blue-winged Warbler
Nashville Warbler
PO
CO
PR
PR
CO
PR
PR
PO
PR
CO
CO
PR
CO
CO
CO
S4B
S5B
S4B
S5B
S4B
S5B
S5B
S3B
S5B
S3B
S5B
S5B
S5B
S5B
S5B
S5B
S5B
S4B
T
T
SC
E
SC
NAR
NAR
PR
Gartner Lee 2000
PR
PR
CO
PR
CO
PO
PR
T
SC
PR
PO
CO
CO
CO
PR
PO
PO
S4B
S5B
NRSI
PR
PO
CO
Scientific Name
Pipilo erythrophthalmus
Spizella passerina
Spizella pallida
Spizella pusilla
Pooecetes gramineus
Passerculus sandwichensis
Ammodramus savannarum
Melospiza melodia
Melospiza lincolnii
Melospiza georgiana
Zonotrichia albicollis
Common Name
SPARROWS
Eastern Towhee
Chipping Sparrow
Clay-colored Sparrow
Field Sparrow
Vesper Sparrow
Savannah Sparrow
Grasshopper Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Lincoln's Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Piranga olivacea
Cardinalis cardinalis
Pheucticus ludovicianus
Passerina cyanea
SRANK
COSEWIC
COSSARO
OBBA
S4B
S5B
S4B
S4B
S4B
S4B
S4B
S5B
S5B
S5B
S5B
PR
CO
PR
CO
PR
CO
PR
CO
PR
CO
PR
PR
CO
CARDINALS & ALLIES
Scarlet Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
S4B
S5
S4B
S4B
CO
CO
CO
CO
PR
PR
PR
CO
Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Agelaius phoeniceus
Sturnella magna
Quiscalus quiscula
Molothrus ater
Icterus galbula
BLACKBIRDS
Bobolink
Red-winged Blackbird
Eastern Meadowlark
Common Grackle
Brown-headed Cowbird
Baltimore Oriole
S4B
S4
S4B
S5B
S4B
S4B
CO
CO
CO
CO
PR
CO
PR
CO
PR
CO
PR
PR
Carpodacus purpureus
Carpodacus mexicanus
Loxia leucoptera
Spinus pinus
Spinus tristis
FINCHES
Purple Finch
House Finch
White-winged Crossbill
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch
S4B
SNA
S5B
S4B
S5B
PR
CO
CO
PO
CO
PR
PR
Passer domesticus
OLD WORLD SPARROWS
House Sparrow
SNA
CO
PR
T
THR
T
THR
Legend
COSEWIC - Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC 2013)
COSSARO - Species at Risk in Ontario (OMNR 2013)
Provincial Rank (SRANK)
S2 - Imperiled
S3 - Vulnerable
S5 - Secure
COSEWIC
NAR - Not at Risk
T - Threatened
E - Endangered
COSSARO
NAR - Not at Risk
THR - Threatened
END - Endangered
CO
PR
PR
PO
CO
PR
CO
PR
APPENDIX II
Herpetofaunal Species Reported From the Study Area
Appendices
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Turtles
Chelydra serpentina serpentina
Chrysemys picta marginata
COMMON NAME
SRANK COSEWIC COSSARO
Reptile
and
Amphibian
Atlas
Appendix II. Reptiles and Amphibians Reported From the Study Area
Common Snapping Turtle
Midland Painted Turtle
S3
S5
SC
SC
X
X
Snakes
Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum
Nerodia sipedon sipedon
Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata
Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis
Eastern Milksnake
Northern Watersnake
Northern Red-bellied Snake
Eastern Gartersnake
S3
S5
S5
S5
SC
NAR
SC
NAR
H
H
X
H
Salamanders
Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens
Plethodon cinereus
Red-spotted Newt
Eastern Red-backed Salamander
S5
S5
X
X
American Toad
Gray Treefrog
S5
S5
X
X
Western Chorus Frog
S3
Spring Peeper
Bullfrog
Green Frog
Northern Leopard Frog
Wood Frog
S5
S4
S5
S5
S5
Toads and Frogs
Bufo americanus
Hyla versicolor
Pseudacris triseriata pop. 2 (Gr. Lakes/St. Lawrence Canadian Shield Population)
Pseudacris crucifer crucifer
Rana catesbeiana
Rana clamitans melanota
Rana pipiens
Rana sylvatica
T
NAR
Legend
SARO - Species at Risk in Ontario (OMNR 2013)
Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (Ontario Nature 2013)
X - recent sighting (since 1993) H - historical sighting (prior to 1993)
S2 - Imperiled
S3 - Vulnerable
S5 - Secure
COSEWIC
NAR - Not at Risk
T - Threatened
E - Endangered
COSSARO
NAR - Not at Risk
THR - Threatened
END - Endangered
NAR
NAR
X
X
X
X
X
X
APPENDIX III
Mammal Species Reported From the Study Area
Appendices
Common Name
Beaver
Star-nosed Mole
Big Brown Bat
Porcupine
Northern Flying Squirrel
Snowshoe Hare
European Hare
Striped Skunk
House Mouse
Long-tailed Weasel
Mink
Little Myotis
White-tailed Deer
Muskrat
Hairy-tailed Mole
White-footed Mouse
Deer Mouse
Raccoon
Norway Rat
Gray Squirrel
Masked (Common) Shrew
Eastern Chipmunk
Red Squirrel
Red Fox
SRANK COSEWIC COSSARO
S5
S5
S5
S5
S5
S5
SE
S5
SE
S4
S5
S5
E
E
S5
S5
S4
S5
S5
S5
SE
S5
S5
S5
S5
S5
Legend
SARO - Species at Risk in Ontario (MNR 2013)
S2 - Imperiled
S3 - Vulnerable
S5 - Secure
SE - Exotic
COSEWIC
NAR - Not at Risk
T - Threatened
E - Endangered
COSSARO
NAR - Not at Risk
THR - Threatened
END - Endangered
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NRSI
Observed
Scientific Name
Castor canadensis
Condylura cristata
Eptesicus fuscus
Erethizon dorsatum
Glaucomys sabrinus
Lepus americanus
Lepus europaeus
Mephitis mephitis
Mus musculus
Mustela frenata
Mustela vison
Myotis lucifugus
Odocoileus virginianus
Ondatra zibethicus
Parascalops breweri
Peromyscus leucopus
Peromyscus maniculatus
Procyon lotor
Rattus norvegicus
Sciurus carolinensis
Sorex cinereus
Tamias striatus
Tamiasciurus hudsonicus
Vulpes vulpes
Ontario
Mammal
Atlas
Appendix III. Mammal Species Recorded From the Study Area
X

Ballantrae-Musselman Lake and Environs Environmental

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