regional municipality of waterloo ecological and environmental

Transcription

MEDIA RELEASE: Friday, August 9, 2013, 4:30 p.m.
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WATERLOO
ECOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
AGENDA
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Dinner: 6:00 P.M.
Meeting: 6:30 P.M.
Room 110
150 Frederick Street, Kitchener, Ontario
1.
DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY INTEREST UNDER THE MUNICIPAL
CONFLICT OF INTEREST ACT
2.
MINUTES: April 30, 2013
3.
DELEGATIONS
a)
Mr. Jeff Thompson (Thompson Environmental Planning & Design Ltd.)
EEAC-13-007, Proposed Industrial Subdivision, Bishop Street and CanAmera
Parkway, Cambridge, Portuguese Swamp Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area
[ESPA 72]
b)
Ms. Shari Muscat (Stantec)
EEAC-13-008, Proposed Residential Subdivision, LVH Moffat Creek, 1395 Main
Street, Cambridge, Moffat Creek Core Environmental Feature, Beverly
Environmentally Sensitive Landscape
c)
1
Mr. Bill Green (GSP Group) and Ms. Shari Muscat (Stantec)
EEAC-13-009, Proposed Mixed Use Development, Fairway Road and Lackner
Boulevard, Kitchener, Lackner Woods [ESPA 25] and Core Environmental
Feature
d)
Mr. Bob Long (Long Environmental)
EEAC-13-010, Proposed Cambridge Aggregates Pit, 1830 Wrigley Road, North
Dumfries Township, Cedar Creek Spillway [ESPA 41], McCrone Lake [ESPA 46]
4.
REPORTS
a)
EEAC-13-007, Proposed Industrial Subdivision, Bishop Street and CanAmera
Parkway, Cambridge, Portuguese Swamp Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area
[ESPA 72]
7
b)
EEAC-13-008, Proposed Residential Subdivision, LVH Moffat Creek, 1395 Main
Street, Cambridge, Moffat Creek Core Environmental Feature, Beverly
Environmentally Sensitive Landscape
14
c)
EEAC-13-009, Proposed Mixed Use Development, Fairway Road and Lackner
Boulevard, Kitchener, Lackner Woods [ESPA 25] and Core Environmental
Feature
DOCS # 1434867
24
EEAC Agenda
-2-
13/08/13
d)
EEAC-13-010, Proposed Cambridge Aggregates Pit, 1830 Wrigley Road, North
Dumfries Township, Cedar Creek Spillway [ESPA 41], McCrone Lake [ESPA 46]
5.
OTHER BUSINESS
a)
EEAC 40th Anniversary 1973-2013
6.
INFORMATION/CORRESPONDENCE
a)
P-13-080/E-13-097, Regional Approval of the Freeport Creek and Tributary of
the Grand Sub-Watershed Study
38
b)
E-13-096, Roseville Road (Regional Road 46) 80 km/h Posted Speed Limit
Review near Barrie’s Lake Turtle Crossing, Township of North Dumfries
57
7.
ACTIVE EEAC SUBCOMMITTEES
71
8.
NEXT MEETING – September 24, 2013
9.
ADJOURN
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32
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WATERLOO
ECOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
6:30 P.M.
Room 110
150 Frederick Street, Kitchener, Ontario
Present were: Chair J. Jackson, W. Caston, T. Creese, L. Cymbaly, A. Dean, R. Donaldson, L.
Ehnes, A. Featherstone, A. Merry, G. Michalenko, C. Millar, C. Priddle and A. Woroch
Members absent: P. Duxbury, J. Ehgoetz, and Y. Muhammad
DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY INTEREST UNDER THE MUNICIPAL CONFLICT OF
INTEREST ACT
None declared.
MINUTES
MOVED by C. Millar
SECONDED by A. Merry
THAT the minutes of the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee meeting held on
February 26, 2013 be approved.
CARRIED
REPORTS
a)
EEAC-13-004, Proposed Residential Subdivisions, LVH Doon Creek Robert Ferrie
Extension and Chalon Estates, Kitchener, Caryndale Woodland and Strasburg Creek
Core Environmental Features
A. Dean introduced the report. He stated that the subcommittee did not support the proposed
location of lot #1 recommending lot #1 boundary be revised to meet the minimum 10 meter
buffer or a wider buffer if required by the GRCA. He also noted that the developers should work
with Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) for any additional buffer requirements.
Kristen Barrisdale, GSP Group, Dave Aston, MHBC Planning, Jeff Gross, and Heather Drost,
Ecoplans appeared before Committee in support of the recommendation.
Committee members asked that Chris Gosselin, Manager, Environmental Planning report back
to Committee regarding the MNR findings on the Jefferson salamanders.
MOVED by R. Donaldson
SECONDED by A. Featherstone
THAT the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee advise Planning, Housing and
Community Services staff as follows:
EEAC
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1. That the committee finds the Environmental Implementation Report, Doon Creek Robert
Ferrie Extension, (Ecoplans, March 2012) acceptable and has no objection in principle to
the approval of the proposed Draft Plan of Subdivision within and contiguous to the
Caryndale Woodland and Strasburg Creek Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) Core
Environmental Features, subject to the following conditions:
a. That, prior to draft approval, the design of Lot #1 shown on the Draft Plan of Subdivision
be revised in order to meet the minimum 10 metre buffer from the Strasburg Creek PSW
Core Environmental Feature as stipulated in Regional Official Plan Policy 7.C.10 or a
wider buffer if required by the Grand River Conservation Authority. If the minimum buffer
width is not achievable, the proposed lot must be deleted and the remaining lands be
added to Block 12 (Open Space);
b. That the boundaries and buffers of the Caryndale Woodland and Strasburg Creek Core
Environmental Features within and contiguous to the subject lands be interpreted as
shown on Figure 4 of the Environmental Implementation Report, Doon Creek Robert
Ferrie Extension, (Ecoplans, March 2012), except in accordance with Condition (a)
above, which have been verified in the field by a sub-committee of the Ecological and
Environmental Advisory Committee on April 3, 2013;
c. That the Core Environmental Features and associated buffers on the subject lands be
placed in suitable open space zoning pursuant to policy 7.A.2 of the Regional Official
Plan;
d. That no clearing of vegetation on the site occur during the bird breeding season in
compliance with the Migratory Birds Convention Act unless it can be ascertained by a
qualified expert that no birds covered by the Act are observed to be breeding in or
adjacent to the affected area;
e. That prior to any land clearing, grading or other site alteration, the owner obtain the
necessary permits from the Ministry of Natural Resources related to species at risk
identified on or contiguous to the subject lands in compliance with the Endangered
Species Act.
f. That, prior to registration, the owner install a minimum 1.2-metre chain-link fence along
the common boundary of any lots or blocks and the buffers of Core Environmental
Features or the stormwater management area (Lot 1, if remaining, Lot 2, Lot 3, Block 4
and Block 7), with signage identifying the Core Environmental Feature, and that the fence
be installed 15 centimetres into the buffer area to the satisfaction of the City of Kitchener,
the Grand River Conservation Authority and the Region;
g. That, prior to registration and any land clearing, grading, or the installation of services, the
owner submit a detailed erosion and sediment control plan acceptable to the Region, City
of Kitchener, and Grand River Conservation Authority in order to prevent sedimentation
into Core Environmental Features.
h. That, prior to registration, the owner submit a detailed stormwater management plan to the
satisfaction of the City of Kitchener, Grand River Conservation Authority, and Region
including, but not limited to, the design and location of infiltration facilities required to
sustain the flow of groundwater to Core Environmental Features;
1393995
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i.
That any constructed drain and sewerage to receive outflow from the Caryndale
Significant Woodland be constructed outside the dripline of the trees and that the swale
from the woodland to the drain be planted with locally appropriate native species in order
to prevent erosion;
j.
That, prior to registration, the owner submit landscaping and planting plans for all buffer
areas contiguous to Core Environmental Features and for the stormwater management
area, and that recommended plantings shall consist of locally-appropriate, self-sustaining
native vegetation to the satisfaction of the Region, the City of Kitchener and the Grand
River Conservation Authority;
k. That, prior to registration, the owner submit a detailed monitoring plan for Core
Environmental Features on the subject lands as outlined in the Environmental
Implementation Report, Doon Creek Robert Ferrie Extension, (Ecoplans, March 2012)
to the satisfaction of the Region, the City of Kitchener and the Grand River Conservation
Authority; and
l.
That, prior to registration, the owner develop a brochure and other information tools for
new home purchasers which provides information about the natural heritage features
contiguous to the subdivision along with advice about how they can be good neighbours
to and stewards of these areas, and that the brochure be to the satisfaction of the City of
Kitchener, GRCA, Ministry of Natural Resources, and Region.
2. That the committee finds the Environmental Implementation Report, Chalon Estates Plan
of Subdivision – South Parcel, (Ecoplans, October 2012) acceptable and has no objection
in principle to the approval of the proposed Draft Plan of Subdivision within and contiguous to
the Strasburg Creek Provincially Significant Wetland / Core Environmental Feature, subject
to the following conditions:
a. That the boundaries and buffers of the Strasburg Creek PSW Core Environmental Feature
within and contiguous to the subject lands be interpreted as shown on Figure 4 of the
Environmental Implementation Report, Chalon Estates Plan of Subdivision – South
Parcel, (Ecoplans, October 2012), which have been verified in the field by a subcommittee of the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee on April 3, 2013;
b. That the Core Environmental Feature and associated buffers on the subject lands be
placed in suitable open space zoning pursuant to policy 7.A.2 of the Regional Official
Plan;
c. That no clearing of vegetation on the site occur during the bird breeding season in
d. That prior to registration or any land clearing, grading or other site alteration, the owner
obtain the necessary permits from the Ministry of Natural Resources related to species at
risk identified on or contiguous to the subject lands in compliance with the Endangered
Species Act.
e. That, prior to registration, the owner install a minimum 1.2-metre chain-link fence along
the common boundary of any lots or blocks and the buffers of the Core Environmental
Feature or the stormwater management area (Block 3 and 4), with signage identifying the
Core Environmental Feature, and that the fence be installed 15 centimetres into the buffer
1393995
EEAC
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area to the satisfaction of the City of Kitchener, the Grand River Conservation Authority
and the Region;
f. That, prior to registration and to any land clearing, grading, or the installation of services,
the owner submit a detailed erosion and sediment control plan acceptable to the Region,
City of Kitchener, and Grand River Conservation Authority in order to prevent
sedimentation into the Core Environmental Feature.
g. That, prior to registration, the owner submit a detailed stormwater management plan to the
satisfaction of the City of Kitchener, Grand River Conservation Authority, and Region
including, but not limited to, the design and location of infiltration facilities required to
sustain the flow of groundwater to the Core Environmental Feature;
h. That, prior to registration, the owner submit landscaping and planting plans for all buffer
areas contiguous to the Core Environmental Feature and for the stormwater management
area and that recommended plantings shall consist of locally-appropriate, self-sustaining
native vegetation to the satisfaction of the Region, the City of Kitchener and the Grand
i. That, prior to registration, the owner submit a detailed monitoring plan for Core
Environmental Features on the subject lands as outlined in the Environmental
Implementation Report, Chalon Estates Plan of Subdivision – South Parcel,
(Ecoplans, October 2012) to the satisfaction of the Region, the City of Kitchener and the
Grand River Conservation Authority; and
j. That, prior to registration, the owner develop a brochure and other information tools for
contiguous to the subdivision along with advice about how they can be good neighbours
to and stewards of these areas, and that the brochure be to the satisfaction of the City of
Kitchener, GRCA, Ministry of Natural Resources, and Region.
CARRIED
b)
EEAC-13-005, Assessment of Breslau Riverbank Core Environmental Feature as
Potential New Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area
C. Gosselin introduced the report. He described the site and provided details as to why this
site would qualify as an Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area (ESPA).
Amanda Kosloski, Armstrong & Hunter and Jeff Gross, Ecoplans appeared before Committee.
J. Gross expressed concerns that this area does not fulfill the criteria to become a new ESPA.
He explained the lack of clarity in B.3 and C.1 on Attachment A of the report.
Committee members discussed if the site qualified as an ESPA and asked for clarification on
the next steps.
C. Gosselin answered questions and provided clarification on the site and surrounding area. He
also noted that once the edge mapping and breeding bird survey information is completed and
all the technical data sheets are put together, that information will be brought back to Committee
for an opportunity to review.
1393995
EEAC
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Some Committee members expressed concerns with the site qualifying as an ESPA and asked
for wording to be changed in the recommendation that would allow for additional information to
be gathered and once the information was gathered to report back the EEAC.
MOVED by G. Michalenko
SECONDED by L. Cymbaly
THAT the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee advise Planning, Housing, and
Community Services staff that the Breslau Riverbank Core Environmental Feature warrants
consideration as a candidate for a Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area provided that
additional information fulfills criteria in the Regional Official Plan policy 7.C.5.
AND THAT once additional information has been gathered it comes back to Ecological and
Environmental Advisory Committee for further consideration.
CARRIED
Committee members introduced themselves to Amy Woroch and provided background
information on their experience and involvement with the Ecological and Environmental
Advisory Committee.
c)
EEAC-13-006, Regional Forest Management Plan: Operating Management Plan for
Walker Woods Regional Forest
Albert Hovingh, Environmental Planner provided a presentation on Walker Woods Regional
Forest. He highlighted;












Background information;
Operating management plan;
Overall management goal;
Forest inventory;
Forest management goals;
Forest management objectives;
Forest management;
Ongoing management;
Property management objectives;
Management activities;
Property management; and
Showed pictures
A copy of the presentation is appended to the original minutes.
A. Hovingh responded to Committee questions regarding the Township’s involvement in Walker
Forest and the surrounding area and highlighted possible scenarios regarding preserving the
sugar shack.
MOVED by R. Donaldson
SECONDED by W. Caston
THAT the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee endorse the Operating
Management Plan for the Walker Woods Regional Forest as attached to Report EEAC-13-006,
dated April 30, 2013
1393995
EEAC
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CARRIED
OTHER BUSINESS
a) EEAC 40th Anniversary 1973-2013
C. Gosselin highlighted that this year EEAC is celebrating 40 years stating EEAC was the first
and is the oldest in the country. He asked members for suggestions on how to celebrate this
milestone.
Committee members were asked to submit their ideas to Tim Van Hinte, Principal Planner
(Environmental).
*R. Donaldson left the meeting at 8:12 p.m.
b) Ontario Municipal Board Decision – Regional Official Plan Land Budget
C. Gosselin provided an update on the OMB decision stating the decision was a controversial
ruling. He explained the next steps noting Regional Council has approved an appeal to
divisional court. He highlighted that all environmental policies are under appeal.
c) A.D. Latornell Conservation Symposium
T. Van Hinte, A. Dean and C. Priddle provided highlights from the November 15, 2012
conference.
T.
Van
Hinte
provided
the
website
for
the
conference
http://www.latornell.ca/program/2012/index.html
d) Waterloo Stewardship Network Update
A. Hovingh provided an update on the Waterloo Steward Network. He explained the Ministry of
Natural Resources cut backs on the Ontario Stewardship Networks and what the program looks
like now.
ACTIVE EEAC SUBCOMMITTEES
It was noted that the subcommittee for Breslau Riverbank be put back on the Active Sub
Committee list.
NEXT MEETING – May 28, 2013
ADJOURN
MOVED by C. Millar
SECONDED by G. Michalenko
THAT the meeting adjourn at 8:45 p.m.
CARRIED
COMMITTEE CHAIR, J. Jackson
COMMITTEE CLERK, E. Flewwelling
1393995
REGION OF WATERLOO
Report: EEAC-13-007
PLANNING, HOUSING & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Community Planning
TO:
Chair and Members of the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee
DATE:
August 13, 2013
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED INDUSTRIAL SUBDIVISION, BISHOP STREET AND CANAMERA
PARKWAY, CAMBRIDGE, PORTUGUESE SWAMP ENVIRONMENTALLY
SENSITIVE POLICY AREA (ESPA 72)
FILE CODE: D04-20072/DA
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee take the following actions with
respect to the proposed industrial subdivision at Bishop Street and CanAmera Parkway in
Cambridge, on lands contiguous to the Portuguese Swamp Environmentally Sensitive Policy
Area (ESPA 72):
1.
Advise Planning, Housing and Community Services staff that the Environmental Impact
Statement required in support of the proposed development application be scoped, as per
Policies 7.C.9 and 7.G.4(b) of the Regional Official Plan, to address the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
2.
confirmation of an ecologically appropriate boundary of ESPA 72 and the Provincially
Significant Wetland on the subject lands;
delineation and design of a suitable buffer between ESPA 72 and the proposed
development on the subject lands;
a biophysical survey to identify natural habitats and/or populations of Regionally
significant plant and animal species on the subject lands that might be adversely
affected by the proposed development;
maintaining quantitative and qualitative aspects of the hydrological and hydrogeological
regimes sustaining the Provincially Significant Wetland within ESPA 72;
identification of ecological enhancement, restoration and long-term stewardship
opportunities for ESPA 72 and Provincially Significant Wetlands on the subject lands;
and
content of a during-development and post-development monitoring program.
Strike a sub-committee to review the scoped Environmental Impact Statement for the
proposed development when it is submitted.
REPORT:
Granval Construction Inc. is proposing an industrial subdivision generally located on Bishop
Street at CanAmera Parkway in Cambridge. The subject lands are located south of the
Portuguese Swamp Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area (ESPA 72), east of existing industrial
uses on Bishop Street, and west of CanAmera Parkway. The proposed development consists of
6 industrial lots ranging in size from 0.8 to 1.83 hectares (2 to 4.59 acres). It is proposed that the
new development will use an existing stormwater management facility owned by the City of
Cambridge which discharges to the ESPA (see Figure 1).
On July 5, 2013, Regional environmental planning staff met on-site with the applicant and his
DOCS # 1429434
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August 13, 2013
Report: EEAC-13-007
consultants to review and discuss the natural heritage features on the subject lands. The
northern part of the property consists primarily of the wetlands and woodland that form ESPA
72, in addition to the City’s stormwater management pond. Most of the southern part of the
property has been filled and has succeeded to a grass/meadow cover over the years. The filled
area of the property generally extends northward to the southern boundary of two small isolated
wetlands where it creates a relatively steep slope (see Photo 1).
Photo 1. Extent of Filled Area on Property in Relation to Wetland Area
(Photo: Steve Jefferson, K. Smart Associates, July 5, 2013)
The Core Environmental Feature on the property comprises the northern block of Portuguese
Swamp and two small wetland pockets of the Portuguese Swamp Provincially Significant
Wetland Complex. (see Figure 2). While ESPA 72 is one of the largest natural areas in an urban
setting in the Region, its quality has been diminished in some respects over the years. The
severe alteration of the swamp’s hydrological regime by stormwater discharge from new
development and partial blockage of the culvert beneath CanAmera Parkway has resulted in the
drowning of a significant number of trees in the ESPA at this location (see Photo 2).
Since the proposed development would occur on lands contiguous to Core Environmental
Features, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will be required in accordance with ROP
Policies 7.C.9. It is not anticipated that the proposed development will intrude into the ESPA
because development and site alteration is not permitted within Core Environmental Features. It
is recommended that the EIS be scoped in accordance with ROP Policy 7.G.4(b).
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August 13, 2013
Report: EEAC-13-007
Photo 2. Drowned Trees Adjacent to CanAmera Parkway in ESPA 72
Staff recommends that the scoped EIS address the following six issues:
a.
Confirmation of an ecologically appropriate boundary of ESPA 72 and Provincially
Significant Wetlands
The northern part of the property includes portions of ESPA 72 in addition to two small PSW
pockets located immediately to the south of the stormwater pond. (see Figure 2). While
development will not be permitted within these areas, these Core Environmental Features will
require delineation as part of the EIS in order to meet the requirements of ROP Policies 7.C.8
and 7.C.9.
b.
Delineation and design of a suitable buffer from ESPA 72 and Provincially Significant
Wetlands
Ecological buffers will be required along the boundary of ESPA 72 and PSWs to protect these
ecological features and functions. Buffers must be a minimum of 10 metres (ROP Policy
7.C.10), but if significant species are identified within the Core Environmental Features, a larger
buffer may be required in specific locations. Buffers from PSWs are typically 30 metres and are
subject to the approval of the GRCA. The final buffer will be a composite of these specific
buffers. Buffer requirements for the small non-PSW wetland fall under the jurisdiction of the
GRCA.
c.
Biophysical survey to identify natural habitats and/or populations of Regionally
significant plant and animal species on the subject lands
The EIS for the proposed development must include a bio-physical survey identifying natural
habitats and/or provincially or Regionally significant plant and animal species within and
immediately adjacent to Core Environmental Features which may be adversely affected by the
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August 13, 2013
Report: EEAC-13-007
proposed development. Comprehensive inventories of plants and animal species must be
conducted in the appropriate seasons in accordance with Section B.2.4 of the latest draft of the
Region of Waterloo Greenlands Network Implementation Guideline for scoped Environmental
Impact Statements. In addition, Regional staff advised the applicant’s environmental consultant
at the July 5, 2013 site visit to start an inventory of breeding birds immediately as the breeding
bird season typically ends in July.
d.
Maintaining quantitative and qualitative aspects of the hydrological
hydrogeological regimes sustaining Core Environmental Features
and
The site generally drains towards ESPA 72, and it is proposed to utilise the existing stormwater
pond adjacent to the subject lands. The pond subsequently drains through a culvert beneath
CanAmera Parkway to the main body of Portuguese Swamp. As mentioned above, the adjacent
block of Portuguese Swamp has experienced prolonged flooding as a result of stormwater
discharge and blockage of the culvert beneath CanAmera Parkway. Over several years, this
has drowned the former Silver Maple swamp killing scores of trees and turning the swamp
ecosystem into a marsh (see Photo 2).
Since stormwater from the site is anticipated to drain to ESPA 72, it is essential that the
stormwater management plan not exacerbate the flooding in the wetland. The stormwater
management component of the EIS must address how to protect the wetland from further
adverse impacts, and preferably advise how to use this opportunity to correct the drainage
problem. The stormwater management plan should include a detailed water balance for the
subject property.
e.
Identification of ecological enhancement, restoration and long-term stewardship
opportunities for Core Environmental Features on the subject lands
The EIS must discuss opportunities for the long-term stewardship and management of the
extensive Core Environmental Features and buffer areas on the subject property, including the
future ownership of the natural areas and buffers. At the site meeting on July 5th, there was
some discussion as to whether or not the area of land between the ESPA boundary, the small
wetland and the stormwater pond could be developed (see Photo 3). Given the steep slope from
the filled area and buffer requirements for the ESPA and wetlands, an industrial lot may not be
feasible at this location. It was agreed at the site visit that the future use of this area would be
addressed in the scoped EIS.
f.
Content of a during-development and post-development monitoring program
The EIS should propose an extensive pre-, during-, and post-development monitoring program
for the subject property. This should include an adaptive management approach designed to
address potential negative effects arising during the development process.
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August 13, 2013
Report: EEAC-13-007
Photo 3. Area between ESPA Boundary (Background) and Small Wetland (Foreground)
Area Municipal Consultation/Coordination:
This report has been shared with staff of the City of Cambridge. The application will be reviewed
in consultation with the City of Cambridge and the Grand River Conservation Authority.
CORPORATE STRATEGIC PLAN:
The review of the recommended EIS for the subject application will help achieve Strategic
Objective 1.5 of the Region of Waterloo Strategic Focus 2011-2014 to “restore and preserve
green space, agricultural land, and sensitive environmental areas.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
The usual fee for the review of a scoped EIS will apply.
OTHER DEPARTMENT CONSULTATIONS/CONCURRENCE:
Other Regional departments will be consulted during the pre-submission stage and the review
of the application when it is submitted.
ATTACHMENTS
Figure 1. Conceptual Site Plan for Lands at Bishop Street and CanAmera Parkway
Figure 2. Location of Core Environmental Features on Subject Lands
PREPARED BY: Tim Van Hinte, Principal Planner (Environmental), Community Planning
APPROVED BY: Rob Horne, Commissioner, Planning, Housing & Community Services
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Report: EEAC-13-007
Figure 1. Conceptual Site Plan for Lands at Bishop Street and CanAmera Parkway
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Report: EEAC-13-007
Figure 2. Location of Core Environmental Features on Subject Lands
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Page 7 of 7
REGION OF WATERLOO
Report: EEAC-13-008
PLANNING, HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
Community Planning
TO:
Chair John Jackson and Members of the Ecological and Environmental Advisory
Committee
DATE:
August 13, 2013
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION, LVH MOFFAT CREEK, 1395 MAIN
STREET, CAMBRIDGE, MOFFAT CREEK CORE ENVIRONMENTAL
FEATURE, BEVERLY ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LANDSCAPE
RECOMMENDATION:
Community Services staff as follows:
1. That the Environmental Impact Study, 1395 Main Street, Cambridge, Moffat Creek
Subdivision, (Stantec, August 22, 2012) fulfills the Terms of Reference adopted by the
committee on April 24, 2012.
2. That the boundaries and buffers of the Moffat Creek Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area
within and contiguous to the subject lands have been verified in the field by a sub-committee
of the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee on October 23, 2012, and should
be interpreted as shown on Figure 5 of the Environmental Impact Study, 1395 Main Street,
Cambridge, Moffat Creek Subdivision, (Stantec, August 22, 2012).
3. That the committee has no objection in principle to the draft approval of proposed Plan of
Subdivision 30T-13101 subject to the following conditions:
a) That the Core Environmental Features and associated buffers on the subject lands be
placed in suitable conservation open space zoning pursuant to policy 7.A.2 of the Regional
Official Plan;
b) That no clearing of vegetation on the site occur during the bird breeding season in
c) That prior to any land clearing, grading or other site alteration, the owner obtain the
necessary permits from the Ministry of Natural Resources related to species at risk (Barn
swallow) identified on or contiguous to the subject lands in compliance with the
Endangered Species Act.
d) That during demolition of the existing house and barn, a qualified environmental monitor
be present for periodic site inspection in order to ensure that wildlife, and in particular
snakes, are safely removed from the site, and that the monitoring plan for erosion and
sediment controls also seek to ensure that wildlife are not trapped or entangled in
materials within the construction area.
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Report: EEAC-13-008
e) That the applicant’s environmental consultant confirm whether Bluets (Houstonia
caerulea) is located within the natural features on the subject property as it would be a
new native species in the Region;
f) That, prior to registration, the owner install a minimum 1.2-metre chain-link fence along
the common boundary of any lots or blocks and the buffers of Core Environmental
Features or the stormwater management area (Blocks 1, 5, 6, 14 and 15), with signage
identifying the Moffat Creek ESPA, and that the fence be installed 15 centimetres into the
buffer area to the satisfaction of the City of Cambridge, the Grand River Conservation
Authority and the Region;
g) That, prior to registration and any land clearing, grading, or the installation of services, the
owner submit a detailed erosion and sediment control plan acceptable to the Region, City
of Cambridge, and Grand River Conservation Authority in order to prevent sedimentation
into the Core Environmental Feature.
h)
That, prior to registration, the owner submit a detailed stormwater management plan to
the satisfaction of the City of Cambridge, Grand River Conservation Authority, and
Region including, but not limited to, the design and location of infiltration facilities required
to sustain groundwater flow to the Core Environmental Feature and the location and
design of the discharge structure into the wetland;
i)
That, prior to registration, the owner submit landscaping and planting plans for all buffer
areas contiguous to Core Environmental Features and for the stormwater management
area, and that recommended plantings shall consist of locally-appropriate, self-sustaining
native vegetation to the satisfaction of the Region, the City of Cambridge and the Grand
j)
That, prior to registration, the owner submit a detailed monitoring plan for the Core
Environmental Feature on the subject lands as outlined in the Environmental Impact
Study, 1395 Main Street, Cambridge, Moffat Creek Subdivision, (Stantec, August 22,
2012) to the satisfaction of the Region, the City of Cambridge and the Grand River
Conservation Authority;
k) That, prior to registration, an enhanced groundwater monitoring program be established to
the satisfaction of the Region and Grand River Conservation Authority to include:
 not less than quarterly monitoring of water levels in MW1-12, MW2-12, MW3-12,
MW4-12 and MW5-12 (January, April, July and October); and
 not less than annual water quality testing of general inorganic parameters and metals;
for a period of not less than three years after registration; and that the results be reported
on an annual calendar year basis by a qualified professional to the Region of Waterloo
and the Grand River Conservation Authority not later than April 30th of the year following;
and that the report include an assessment of any significant changes in groundwater
conditions and a comparison of the total precipitation at the Kitchener / Waterloo Climate
Station (or another station closer to the subject lands) for the calendar year, to the
corresponding 1981 – 2010 and 1971 – 2000 30-year norms, as they may relate to the
reported groundwater conditions.
l)
That, prior to registration, the owner develop a brochure and other information tools for
contiguous to the subdivision along with advice about how they can be good stewards of
these areas, and that the brochure be to the satisfaction of the City of Cambridge, GRCA,
Ministry of Natural Resources, and the Region.
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REPORT:
On April 24th 2012, EEAC approved the recommendation in report EEAC-12-004 that a
subcommittee be established to review the Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed
LVH Moffat Creek subdivision located at 1395 Main Street in the City of Cambridge. The subject
lands are generally located south of Main Street and east of the existing Greengate subdivision
in southeast Cambridge (see Figure 1). The western part of the property consists of active
agricultural land, hedgerows, and a private residence and farm buildings. The eastern and
southern part of the property contains a Core Environmental Feature consisting of the Moffat
Creek Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area (ESPA) (see Photo 1).
In summary, Core Environmental Features on the property are located to the south and east of
the existing farm laneway (see Photo 1). Significant Woodlands, Provincially Significant
Wetlands (PSWs) and the Moffat Creek ESPA are located in this area of the property which
forms the western boundary of the Beverly Environmentally Sensitive Landscape (ESL) (see
Figure 1). The Moffat Creek ESPA was evaluated and proposed for designation in 1997-98 and
has been designated a Core Environmental Feature in the current ROP.
Photo 1. Facing northeast from barn, Significant Woodland and PSW in background
(Photo: Tim Van Hinte, Region of Waterloo, July 18, 2012)
LVH Developments Inc. is proposing a residential subdivision of up to 203 single detached
homes and townhouses as well as an elementary school and a stormwater management facility.
From a natural heritage perspective, the most significant aspect of the proposed plan is that
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approximately 34 hectares (70% of the property) of the Moffat Creek ESPA and floodplain will
be preserved as open space (see Figure 2).
The sub-committee reviewed the following documents related to the proposed LVH Moffat
Creek subdivision:
-
Environmental Impact Study, 1395 Main Street, Cambridge, Moffat Creek
Subdivision (Stantec, August 22, 2012)
-
Letter from Shari Muscat (Stantec) to Tim Van Hinte (Region) Re: Response to
EEAC Comments (May 17, 2013)
-
Hydrogeological Assessment, Moffat Creek Subdivision, (Stantec, August 2012)
-
Functional Servicing and Stormwater Management
Subdivision, (Stantec, August 2012)
-
Draft Plan of Subdivision (Labreche Patterson & Associates Inc., October, 2012)
Report, Moffat
Creek
On October 23, 2012, the subcommittee met on site with the applicant’s environmental
consultant Ms. Shari Muscat (Stantec) along with Regional staff (Tim Van Hinte) to inspect the
site and discuss the findings of the Environmental Impact Study (EIS). Based on its review of
the supporting studies and the site visit, the subcommittee is of the opinion that the EIS is
acceptable as described below.
a.
Confirmation of ecologically appropriate boundaries of Core Environmental Features
In general, Core Environmental Features on the subject lands are found in the eastern half of
the property. The boundary of the Moffat Creek PSW has been surveyed by the applicant’s
consultant and is generally located east of the existing farm laneway with the exception of a
small portion that extends towards the proposed stormwater management pond (see Figure 2).
The boundary of the Significant Woodland generally follows Moffat Creek except in the
northeastern “square” of the property which is almost entirely woodland or wetland.
In summary, the subcommittee concurs with the delineation of the Core Environmental Feature
on the subject lands as shown on Figure 5 of the EIS.
b.
Delineation and design of suitable buffers
Proposed buffers from Core Environmental Features on the property are shown on Figure 5 of
the EIS. Buffers of 30 metres from the Moffat Creek PSW and approximately 90 metres from the
Significant Woodland have been applied, offering ample protection to these features.
In summary, the subcommittee finds that the proposed buffer widths conform to ROP Policy
7.C.10 which requires a minimum buffer of 10 metres. In addition, the subcommittee
recommends that the Core Environmental Features and associated buffers on the subject lands
be placed in suitable conservation open space zoning at the time the property is re-zoned to
permit the proposed subdivision. The subcommittee also recommends that the owners install
fencing along the common boundary between any lots or blocks (Blocks 1, 5, 6, 14 and 15)
abutting the buffers of Core Environmental Features and the stormwater management area to
prevent encroachments by future homeowners.
In addition, the subcommittee recommends that the owner prepare landscaping and planting
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plans for all buffer areas contiguous to Core Environmental Features and for the stormwater
management area. These plans should be limited to locally-appropriate, self-sustaining native
vegetation to the satisfaction of the Region, the City and the GRCA.
c.
Biophysical survey of natural habitats and species
The applicant’s environmental consultant completed multiple biophysical surveys between
2011-2012 on the subject lands. The subcommittee is of the opinion that the type and frequency
of biophysical surveys undertaken by the consultant is consistent with the Region of Waterloo
Greenlands Network Implementation Guideline with respect to a scoped EIS. Noteworthy results
of the various surveys are as follows:

Eight (8) Regionally significant plants/trees were recorded: Marsh Horsetail, Black
Walnut, White Spruce, Cow-Parsnip, Speckled Alder, American Mountain Ash, Fox
Sedge and Canada Wild Onion.

Thirteen (13) Regionally significant birds were observed on the site: Great Blue Heron,
Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker,
Alder Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Veery,
Ovenbird, Pine Warbler and Swamp Sparrow. All species are expected to be breeding
within the Core Environmental Feature except for the Great Blue Heron and Belted
Kingfisher which were observed as flyovers.

One (1) Species-at-Risk was identified on the subject lands: Barn Swallow (Threatened)
was observed nesting in the existing barn next to the farm residence.

No significant or at-risk herpetofauna, amphibians, or mammals were reported. However,
Eastern Gartersnake was reported throughout the property including near the existing
barn.
In summary, the subcommittee is satisfied with the level of habitat protection as all Core
Environmental Features on the subject lands will be protected and afforded buffers from
proposed development. In order to mitigate adverse impacts on the Barn Swallows, the
applicant is proposing to remove the nests when the birds are not breeding and to create a
restoration area to the south of the existing barn (see Photo 2). As this species and its habitat
are protected by the Endangered Species Act, the MNR has jurisdiction.
During demolition of the existing house and barn, the subcommittee recommends a qualified
environmental monitor be present for periodic site inspection in order to ensure that wildlife, and
in particular snakes, are safely removed from the site. In addition, the subcommittee
recommends that the monitoring plan for erosion and sediment controls also seek to ensure that
wildlife are not trapped or entangled in materials within the construction area.
Due to the presence of several Regionally significant breeding birds, the subcommittee also
recommends that no clearing of vegetation on the site occur during the bird breeding season in
compliance with the Migratory Birds Convention Act, unless it can be ascertained by a qualified
expert that no birds covered by the Act are observed to be breeding in or adjacent to the
affected area.
After reviewing the Vascular Plant Species List (Appendix C), the subcommittee noticed what
may be anomalies, potential inaccuracies, horticultural plantings, or in one case an interesting
new find of a native species in Waterloo Region:
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Potential new native species:
- Bluets (Houstonia caerulea)
Eurasian species:
- Water-hemlock (Cicuta virosa)
- Sarsaparilla (Aralia elata)
- Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)
- Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus tricuspidata)
The subcommittee requests that the applicant’s consultant confirm the presence of the abovenoted species, and especially Bluets, in the natural features on the subject property.
d.
Hydrological and hydrogeological regimes sustaining Core Environmental Features
The subject lands include Moffat Creek, the primary hydrological feature that flows diagonally
across the property and which helps sustain the Moffat Creek PSW (see Figure 1).
Groundwater level monitoring was reported as taking place three or four times over a period of
less than ninety days in 2012. While recognized in the Hydrogeological Assessment report
(Stantec, 2012) that these reported groundwater levels represented a low groundwater
condition, this limited monitoring frequency and duration is not considered adequate to provide a
reasonable degree of certainty regarding groundwater conditions on the subject lands. This is a
particularly important consideration given the proximity to the Moffat Creek PSW Complex.
As a result, it is recommended that an enhanced groundwater monitoring program be
established without delay. This enhanced program must be conducted for a period of not less
than three years after registration and must include:

Not less than quarterly monitoring of water levels in MW1-12, MW2-12, MW3-12, MW412 and MW5-12 (January, April, July and October); and

Not less than annual water quality testing of general inorganic parameters, and metals.
The results of the enhanced groundwater monitoring program are to be reported on an annual
(calendar year) basis by a qualified professional, and reported to the Region and the Grand
River Conservation Authority not later than April 30th of the year following. This report is to
include an assessment of any significant changes in groundwater conditions and a comparison
of the total precipitation at the Kitchener-Waterloo Climate Station (or another station closer to
the subject lands) for the calendar year, to the corresponding 1981 – 2010 and 1971 – 2000 30year norms, as they may relate to the reported groundwater conditions. A comparison to the
predicted groundwater quality due to winter de-icing operations should also be completed
annually.
e. Ecological Enhancement, Restoration and Long-term Stewardship
Recommended restoration and management measures are outlined in Section 8.4 of the EIS as
follows:

Enhancement measures within buffer zones and the stormwater management area will
include native species plantings and natural succession to restore disturbed areas;

Removal of the existing farm laneway to discourage casual uncontrolled access to
natural areas;
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
Naturalization of the highly disturbed cultural meadow area west of the Moffat Creek
PSW in order to enhance linkages along the Moffat Creek corridor; and

Naturalization of the agricultural field between the two plantations at the south end of the
property (see Photo 2) including the creation of nesting structures to provide suitable
habitat for Barn Swallows, subject to the direction of the MNR.
For a number of years, EEAC has recommended that new subdivisions contiguous to significant
natural heritage features provide new homeowners with brochures informing them about the
natural areas in their community and also providing advice as to how they can be good
neighbours to the features. This includes such things as refraining from digging up native plants,
dumping landscaping refuse in natural areas, disposing of liquid waste down storm-drains, or
feeding wildlife. Given the growing concern about the effects of artificial lighting on ecological
processes in natural habitats, it is also recommended that such a brochure also include advice
on backyard lighting on properties immediately abutting Core Environmental Features. It is
recommended that, prior to registration, the owner develop such a brochure for new home
purchasers to the satisfaction of the City, GRCA, MNR, and Region.
Photo 2. Restoration area between existing plantations in southern part of property
(Photo: Tim Van Hinte, Region of Waterloo, July 18, 2012)
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f. Content of a during-development and post-development monitoring program
The environmental monitoring strategy for the site is outlined in Section 8.6 of the EIS and the
subcommittee finds it acceptable. The program includes standard during development
monitoring procedures, such as inspection of sediment control and tree protection measures. In
addition, post-construction monitoring of landscape plantings in buffer areas, the stormwater
pond area and restoration areas will occur for a period of two years.
Lastly, the subcommittee recommends that prior to any land clearing, grading, or the installation
of services, the owner submit a detailed erosion and sediment control plan to the satisfaction of
the Region, the City and the GRCA in order to prevent sedimentation into Core Environmental
Features.
AREA MUNICIPAL CONSULTATION/COORDINATION:
The report has been shared with staff from the City of Cambridge and the Grand River
Conservation Authority.
The review of the scoped EIS for the subject application will help achieve the strategic objective
to preserve sensitive natural areas.
The usual fee for the review of a scoped EIS will be required.
Other aspects of this application are being reviewed by Transportation and Water Services staff.
ATTACHMENTS
Figure 1
Figure 2
Subject Lands in Relation to Core Environmental Features
LVH Moffat Creek Development Plan showing Boundaries and Buffers of Core
Environmental Features
Respectfully submitted,
Wayne Caston
Andrew Dean
Ron Donaldson
Greg Michalenko
Charles Priddle
LVH Moffat Creek Sub-committee
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Figure 1. Subject Lands in Relation to Core Environmental Features
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Figure 2. LVH Moffat Creek Development Plan showing Boundaries and Buffers of Core Environmental Features
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REGION OF WATERLOO
Report: EEAC-13-009
Community Planning
TO:
Committee
DATE:
August 13, 2013
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT, FAIRWAY ROAD AND LACKNER
BOULEVARD, KITCHENER, LACKNER WOODS [ESPA 25] AND CORE
ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURE
RECOMMENDATION:
Community Services staff with respect to the proposed development of lands at the
northeastern corner of Lackner Boulevard and Fairway Road in the City of Kitchener, on lands
contiguous to the Lackner Woods Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area [ESPA 25] and Core
Environmental Feature:
a.
That in order to interpret the boundary on the subject property of the Lackner Woods Core
Environmental Feature consisting of Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area 25, the
Idlewood Creek Provincially Significant Wetland, and an associated Significant Woodland,
it is first necessary to confirm whether the poplar trees at the northern end of the property
are Regionally significant Eastern Cottonwood or a Carolina Poplar hybrid;
b.
That If the poplars are confirmed to be Regionally significant Eastern Cottonwood, the
boundary of the Significant Woodland component of the Lackner Woods ESPA/Significant
Woodland be interpreted to retain some part of the population on site, so that this species
continues to be represented in the Core Environmental Feature;
c.
That if some of the poplar population is retained, reasonable effort should also be made to
retain the habitat of the Regionally significant Virginia Stickseed (Hackelia virginiana)
within the refined boundary or buffer, and that if it is determined that all or part of the
poplar grove may be removed, reasonable efforts be made to relocate the Virginia
Stickseed to suitable habitat within ESPA 25;
d.
That staff seek clarification from the Grand River Conservation Authority as to whether the
small pond in the eastern corner of the site warrants inclusion within the PSW boundary.
REPORT:
On September 25th 2012, EEAC approved the recommendation in report EEAC-12-008 that a
subcommittee be established to review the required Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for
the proposed mixed use development located at the northeast corner of Lackner Boulevard and
Fairway Road in Kitchener. The subject lands are within and contiguous to the Lackner Woods
Core Environmental Feature and Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area (ESPA 25) (see Figure
1). Currently, the lands are owned by the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and
the proposal for the lands includes an elementary school and playing fields as well as a mix of
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residential and commercial buildings and associated parking areas for all uses.
On October 31, 2012, the subcommittee and Regional staff (Tim Van Hinte) met on site with
representatives of the proponent group: (Mr. Peter Benninger and Mr. Al Allendorf), and Ms.
Shari Muscat (Stantec) the applicant’s environmental consultant to become familiar with the site.
Subsequent to the site meeting, discussions among Regional environmental staff, City of
Kitchener staff, and the applicant have resulted in an agreement to review the proposed
development in two phases. Since Regional Official Plan (ROP) Policy 7.C.8 prohibits
development or site alteration within a Core Environmental Feature, the first phase in the review
of the application is for EEAC to interpret the boundary of the Core Environmental Feature on
the subject property in accordance with Policy 7.A.6. This will define a development envelope to
guide site planning for the subject lands. Once a development envelope has been determined,
the second phase will comprise the preparation and review of a detailed site plan of the
proposed development. The subcommittee has now had the opportunity to review the Fairway
Road/Lackner Boulevard (WRDSB) Property) Environmental Impact Study (Stantec
Consulting, July 2, 2013) as the first step in completing Phase 1.
1. Boundary of Lackner Woods Core Environmental Feature
Significant natural features on the subject lands and recommended buffers are shown on Figure
3 of the EIS (reproduced in Figure 2 of this report). The Core Environmental Feature consists of
three components which partially, but not completely overlap.
a) ESPA 25
Designated in 1976, the Lackner Woods ESPA is a Provincial Area of Natural and Scientific
Interest (ANSI) and is approximately 36 hectares in size. It includes a large Sugar Maple-BeechHemlock forest located on hilly topography around a large central swamp forest of Black Ash,
Yellow Birch, White Cedar and Silver Maple. Idlewood Creek flows in a southeastern direction
through the ESPA and is the primary hydrological feature draining the associated Provincially
Significant Wetland complex (see Figure 1).
The southwestern boundary of the ESPA on the subject property was interpreted by Regional
staff in 1994 in anticipation of a development application. The application did not materialise at
that time, and over the intervening 19 years, the feature boundary has altered significantly
through natural succession.
b) Idlewood Creek Provincially Significant Wetland and Other Wetlands
Subsequent to the designation of the ESPA, the Province identified portions of the subject lands
as the Idlewood Creek Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW), generally located in the northern
and eastern parts of the property. Most of the wetland complex, with two exceptions, is within
ESPA 25. The PSW boundary extends in a western direction towards Lackner Boulevard in the
northern part of the site. The PSW also extends towards a small pond in the eastern corner of
the site adjacent to Fairway Road. In addition, a small non-PSW wetland pocket is located in the
southern corner of the property adjacent to the intersection of Lackner and Fairway (see Figure
1). The removal of this small wetland has been proposed as part of the site’s development
pursuant to GRCA policies.
Recognising that the delineation of PSWs is ultimately the responsibility of the Ministry of
Natural Resources and that it is often carried out in the field by GRCA staff, the subcommittee
accepts the delineation of wetlands on the subject lands as shown on Figure 3 of the EIS.
Nevertheless, we suggest that the small pond in the eastern corner of the site be evaluated to
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determine whether it should be included within the PSW.
c) Significant Woodland
As previously mentioned, the southwestern boundary of the Lackner Woods ESPA has changed
over time through natural succession. In 2009, the new ROP designated a Core Environmental
Feature (Significant Woodland) over the ESPA, a designation which extends beyond the
interpreted 1994 ESPA boundary to include a Poplar/Cottonwood grove (see Photo 1). At issue
with respect to this application is whether or not the grove should be considered part of a larger
Significant Woodland and therefore part of the Core Environmental Feature. Policy 7.A.6 of the
ROP directs that boundaries of Core Environmental Features be interpreted through the review
of EISs. Confirmation of the boundary on this site will then facilitate evaluation of whether
potential removal of all or part of the poplar woodland would result in an adverse environmental
impact to the Core Environmental Feature.
Photo 1: Poplar/Cottonwood Grove within Core Environmental Feature
(Photo: Tim Van Hinte, Region of Waterloo, June 28, 2012)
Section 4.5.2 of the EIS (p.4.4), (Vegetation Communities) describes the poplar grove as a
Mineral Cultural Woodland (CUW1) based on the Ecological Land Classification (ELC) for
Southern Ontario:
The canopy is open in many sections throughout the community. The canopy is dominated
by Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) with occasional associates of Black Locust
(Robinia pseudo-acacia) and Crack Willow (Salix euxina). Manitoba Maple (Acer negundo)
is an abundant component of the sub-canopy. The understory is dominated by Glossy and
European Buckthorns, as well as Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia). The ground layer is
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densely covered by weedy species including Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Canada
Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), Dame’s Rocket (Hespersis matronalis) and seedlings of
Glossy and European Buckthorn.
Nevertheless, we note that a population of Regionally significant Virginia Stickseed (Hackelia
virginiana) has been observed within the poplar grove. Staff advise that this species was
previously noted in ESPA 25 in a 1996 floristic survey carried out for one of the adjoining
subdivisions.
In summary, the EIS does not consider this feature as a Significant Woodland as set out in
Section 5.3 (p.5.5):

During site investigations, it was determined that the CUW1 woodland is a disturbed
cultural community that is situated on a raised berm or fill pile, and dominated by exotic
and invasive species. This is notably different than the relatively pristine conditions of the
adjacent swamp, which is a lowland natural community dominated by native and
conservative species. It is our opinion that the predominance of exotic invasive species
throughout the CUW1 woodland diminishes its value as a vegetated buffer to the
swamp.

The CUW1 community is less than 4 hectares in size (1.4 ha);

The Eastern Cottonwood trees located in the CUW1 community are less significant than
trees of the same species located in natural communities (e.g. floodplain forest or
swamp or along a riverbank).

Of the 62 species of vascular plant species recorded in the CUW1 woodland, a high
percentage (48%) are exotic species;

No species of provincial or federal significance were observed;

This feature has been evaluated and does not provide significant wildlife habitat (Section
5.5).
The status of this area of Significant Woodland is contingent upon whether it fulfills the
designation criteria in ROP Policy 7.C.6 for Significant Woodlands. Significant Woodlands must
meet all of the following criteria:
(a)
greater than four hectares in size, excluding any adjoining hedgerows;
(b)
consisting primarily of native species of trees; and
(c)
meets the criteria of a woodland in accordance with the provisions of the Regional
Woodland Conservation By-law.
Section 5.3 of the EIS cites this policy, and goes on to state that the poplar grove “does not
meet the criteria of Regionally Significant Woodlands under the 2009 ROP … because it is less
than 4 hectares and it is dominated by non-native (exotic) species in the ground layer,
understory, sub-canopy and partially in the canopy.”
Staff have advised the subcommittee that the interpretation of ROP Policy 7.C.6 in the EIS is
not appropriate. The poplar grove should not be considered a stand-alone woodland, but rather
a contiguous part of a woodland much larger than the four hectare minimum stipulated in subsection (a). Further, the EIS misquotes sub-section (b) as “consisting primarily of native species
and trees” (italics added). Sub-section (b) actually reads “consisting primarily of native species
of trees.” In other words, the policy speaks only to the trees of the woodland and not to the
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other plants, as would be the case if the preposition were “and” rather than “of.” The stocking
level referred to in sub-section (c) would meet the requirements of the Regional Woodland
Conservation By-law.
The only way to disqualify the poplar grove as part of the Significant Woodland is to
demonstrate that the predominant trees are not primarily native species. Thus the correct
identification of the poplar trees is crucial to this application. At the October 31, 2012 site visit,
Brian Miller (a botanist with Stantec,) stated to the subcommittee that, upon further
investigation, the trees appeared to be a hybrid between Eastern Cottonwood and Lombardy
Poplar (Populus nigra), known as Carolina Poplar (Populus x canadensis). On the other hand,
the July 2013 EIS states that the trees are Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides). In order to
make a boundary interpretation with confidence, the subcommittee requires precise
identification of the poplars.
If it is confirmed that the poplars are Eastern Cottonwood, the grove would form part of the
Significant Woodland. Nevertheless, it is the subcommittee’s opinion that, in light of the
disturbed nature of the site, not all of the grove must be preserved. It is our opinion, however,
that the Core Environmental Feature boundary should be interpreted such that at least part of
the Eastern Cottonwood population would be retained along the edge of the Significant
Woodland Core Environmental Feature in that this species is apparently not otherwise present
in the Core Environmental Feature. Eastern Cottonwood is one of a small number of species
considered to be Regionally significant “if native occurring,” but not if planted. Although they are
growing on fill, they do not appear to have been planted. Interpretation of a Core Environmental
Feature boundary through this area also needs to consider the population of Regionally
significant Virginia Stickseed (Hackelia virginiana) identified within the grove. To the extent
feasible, the revised boundary should endeavour to conserve this species in situ. if this is not
feasible, then the final EIS should contain recommendations for re-locating it to other suitable
locations within the rest of ESPA 25.
If the poplars are confirmed not to be Eastern Cottonwoods, the poplar grove would fail to
qualify as a Significant Woodland under policy 7.C.6 as part of a Significant Woodland, and the
Core Environmental Feature boundary could be accordingly refined to exclude the entire area.
2. Delineation and design of buffers around ESPA 25 and Core Environmental Features
Proposed buffers from ESPA 25 and Core Environmental Features on the property are shown
on Figure 3 of the EIS. Buffers of 15-30 metres from the Idlewood Creek PSW and 10 metres
from the ESPA/Significant Woodland boundary have been applied. Once the status of poplar
grove is definitively determined, a 10 metre buffer can be applied and this will outline the
development envelope on the subject property.
AREA MUNICIPAL CONSULTATION/COORDINATION:
The report will be shared with staff from the City of Kitchener and the Grand River Conservation
Authority.
The review of the scoped EIS for the subject application will help achieve the strategic objective
to preserve sensitive natural areas.
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The usual fee for the review of a scoped EIS will be required.
Other aspects of this application are being reviewed by Transportation and Water Services staff.
ATTACHMENTS
Figure 1
Figure 2
Subject Lands in Relation to Core Environmental Features
Proposed Development Plan Envelope Boundaries and
Environmental Features
Buffers
of
Core
Respectfully submitted,
Lauren Cymbaly
Andrew Dean
Ron Donaldson
Allison Featherstone
Greg Michalenko
WRDSB Fairway/Lackner Lands Sub-committee
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Figure 1. Subject Lands in Relation to Core Environmental Features
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Figure 2. Proposed Development Envelope showing Boundaries and Buffers of Core Environmental Features
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REGION OF WATERLOO
Report: EEAC-13-010
Community Planning
TO:
Committee
DATE:
August 13, 2013
SUBJECT:
PROPOSED CAMBRIDGE AGGREGATES PIT, 1830 WRIGLEY ROAD,
NORTH DUMFRIES TOWNSHIP, CEDAR CREEK SPILLWAY [E.S.P.A. 41],
MCCRONE LAKE [E.S.P.A. 46]
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the Ecological and Environmental Advisory Committee take the following actions with
respect to the proposed zone change and aggregate licence on part of the lands at 1830
Wrigley Road, North Dumfries Township on lands contiguous to the Cedar Creek Spillway
Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area [E.S.P.A. 41], McCrone’s Lake E.S.P.A. [E.S.P.A. 46],
and Dumfries Carolinian Environmentally Sensitive Landscape.
1.
Advise Planning, Housing and Community Services staff that the Environmental Impact
Statement required in support of the proposed zone change and aggregate licence
application be scoped, as per Policies 7.B.12, 7.C.9 and 7.G.4(b) of the Regional Official
Plan, to address the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
2.
confirmation of an ecologically and topographically appropriate boundary of E.S.P.A.
41 and the Provincially Significant Wetland, and the Dumfries Carolinian
Environmentally Sensitive Landscape on the subject lands;
delineation and design of a suitable buffer between E.S.P.A. 41 and the proposed
aggregate operation on the subject lands;
a biophysical survey to identify natural habitats and/or populations of Regionally and
Provincially significant plant and animal species on the subject lands that might be
adversely affected by the proposed aggregate operation;
maintaining quantitative and qualitative aspects of the hydrological and hydrogeological
regimes sustaining the Provincially Significant Wetlands within E.S.P.A.’s 41 and 46;
identification of ecological enhancement, restoration and long-term stewardship
opportunities for E.S.P.A. 41 and the portion of the Dumfries Carolinian
Environmentally Sensitive Landscape on the subject lands; and
content of a monitoring program.
Strike a sub-committee to review the scoped Environmental Impact Statement for the
proposed aggregate operation when it is submitted.
REPORT:
Cambridge Aggregates Inc. is proposing to re-zone a 40 hectare property at 1830 Wrigley Road
to permit a new above water table aggregate operation. (See Attachment 1) When the property
was under previous ownership, it was proposed on two occasions to re-zone it for aggregate
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extraction, but the application did not proceed.1 The initial 1996 application covered the subject
property as well as the adjoining property immediately to the west when the two were in the
same ownership. At that time, it was proposed to extract the southern part of the lands west of
the farm lane now forming the common property boundary such that the new pit would in effect
merge with the existing pit to the west. In addition, the western half of the current subject
property south of E.S.P.A. 41 was proposed for extraction. The two properties are now in
separate ownership, and the subject application applies only to the lands between the eastern
side of the farm lane and Reidsville Road.
The Cedar Creek Spillway is one of the larger E.S.P.A.’s in the Region. It contains most of the
length of Cedar Creek, the largest coldwater creek in the Region. The spillway is bordered by
sand and gravel moraine deposits which host several aggregate operations. The subject
property is located on the southern slopes of the spillway. Within the spillway diverse wetlands
are associated with the creek. For the most part, these consist of cedar swamp. On the subject
property, however, a rare bog community is located in a steep-sided topographical kettle
depression immediately to the north of the proposed extraction area. McCrone’s Lake E.S.P.A.,
which is located just to the east across Reidsville Road, is also a bog. In this locality, the two
E.S.P.A.’s form part of the southwestern boundary of the Dumfries Carolinian Environmentally
Sensitive Landscape. The proposed extraction area will be just outside the Environmentally
Sensitive Landscape.
A two-phase operation is proposed to extract the entire southern part of the property between
Wrigley Road and the E.S.P.A. It is not proposed to extract the lands between two lobes of
E.S.P.A. on the west side of Reidsville Road as was considered in 1996, because the area has
recently been identified as the habitat of an Endangered Species of salamander.
Staff have reviewed the 1996 and 2005 staff reports which recommended scoping the
Environmental Impact Statement for the previously proposed aggregate operation as well as
some preliminary information provided by the applicant and have identified several issues which
need to be addressed in the current application.
1.
Confirmation of an ecologically and topographically appropriate boundary of
E.S.P.A. 41, the Roseville Swamp – Cedar Creek Provincially Significant Wetland,
and the Dumfries Carolinian Environmentally Sensitive Landscape on the subject
lands
The Cedar Creek E.S.P.A. lies in a glacial spillway that cuts diagonally across the western part
of North Dumfries Township. The woodlands along the creek grade from lowland swamp to
upland hardwood forest. The subject property is located in an area of complex topography
containing ridges and kettle features. The bog community is located in one such depression in
the central part of the subject property, a depression which has no apparent inflow or outflow. It
is thus important to preserve the catchment of this feature in order not to disrupt the hydrology
of the wetland. Staff recommend that the boundary of E.S.P.A. 41 and the Roseville Swamp Cedar Creek Provincially Significant Wetland be delineated on this property with respect to
natural heritage features as well as the topography that sustains them. The refined boundary
will also serve as the boundary of the Dumfries Carolinian E.S.L. on the subject property.
2.
Delineation and design of a suitable buffer between E.S.P.A. 41 and the proposed
aggregate operation on the subject lands
The excavation of the proposed pit will substantially alter the undulating topography south of
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E.S.P.A. 41 on the subject property. It will be necessary to delineate and design an appropriate
buffer from the E.S.P.A. boundary as required by Regional Official Plan policy 7.C.10. Given
the topography, some transitional grading may be required to match grades from the
rehabilitated sides of the proposed pit with the natural catchment of the bog kettle feature.
3.
Biophysical survey to identify natural habitats and/or populations of Regionally
and Provincially significant species that might be adversely affected by the
proposed aggregate operation
Some preliminary information provided by the applicant indicates that some Provincially
significant species have been identified within the E.S.P.A. It is therefore recommended that
the scoped E.I.S. should provide recommendations as to how the habitat of these species as
well as Regionally significant species occurring on the site can be protected from the effects of
an operating aggregate pit and effectively conserved.
4.
Maintaining quantitative and qualitative aspects of the hydrological and
hydrogeological regimes sustaining the Provincially Significant Wetlands within
E.S.P.A.’s 41 and 46
Preliminary information provided to staff indicates that the natural drainage catchment of the
bog kettle feature will be maintained, and therefore that surface flows will not be altered.
Extraction will be down to a minimum of 1.5 metres above the seasonal high water table. The
preliminary information expresses the opinion that the pond feature associated with the bog is
an expression of the shallow water table. It is inferred that groundwater flows beneath the pond
in a northeast to southwest direction. That is, it flows across and generally parallel to the axis of
the Cedar Creek Spillway. The scoped E.I.S. therefore needs to confirm that the proposed pit
will not adversely affect these valuable wetland features.
5.
Ecological enhancement, restoration and long-term stewardship opportunities for
E.S.P.A. 41 and the portion of the Dumfries Carolinian Environmentally Sensitive
Landscape on the subject lands
Given the significant natural heritage values of the northern part of the subject property which
will not be directly disturbed by the proposed pit, there is an opportunity to restore habitat within
the buffer and catchment area in order to protect the significant wetlands and significant wildlife
habitat from what is proposed to be a more intensive use of the site than has until now been the
case.
6.
Content of a monitoring program
As this is an ecologically significant site, a monitoring plan is required. At a minimum, the
monitoring plan should address groundwater levels beneath the pit and in the kettle wetland
feature, the surface water regime in the bog wetland, the integrity of the significant wildlife
habitat on site, and the buffer and ecological restoration areas.
It is also recommended that a sub-committee be struck to review the scoped E.I.S. when it is
submitted.
Area Municipal Consultation/Coordination:
The application will be reviewed in consultation with staff of the Township of North Dumfries.
This report has been provided to Township staff.
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The review of the recommended E.I.S. for the subject application will help achieve Strategic
Objective 1.5 of the Region of Waterloo Strategic Focus 2011-2014 to “restore and preserve
green space, agricultural land, and sensitive environmental areas.
The usual fee for the review of a scoped E.I.S. will apply.
Other Regional departments will be consulted during the pre-submission stage and the review
of the application when it is submitted.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Location of Subject property with respect to E.S.P.A.’s 41 and 46
Attachment B: The Cambridge Aggregates Property, 1830 Wrigley Road
PREPARED BY: Chris Gosselin, Manager of Environmental Planning
APPROVED BY: Rob Horne, Commissioner of Planning, Housing and Community Services
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Attachment A: Location of Subject property with respect E.S.P.A.’s 41 and 46
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Attachment B: The Cambridge Aggregates Property, 1830 Wrigley Road
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REGION OF WATERLOO
Community Planning
TRANSPORTATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Water Services
TO:
Chair Jim Wideman and Members of the Planning and Works Committee
DATE:
August 13, 2013
SUBJECT:
REGIONAL APPROVAL OF THE FREEPORT CREEK AND TRIBUTARY TO THE
GRAND SUB-WATERSHED STUDY
FILE CODE: D03-30/Freeport
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the Final Draft, Freeport Creek and Tributary to the
Grand Watershed Study (Aquafor Beech, July, 2013) pursuant to Regional Official Plan policy 7.F.6 to
the extent that it addresses matters of Regional interest, and more specifically:
a)
That Regional staff collaborate with City of Cambridge and Grand River Conservation Authority
staff to incorporate policies in the City’s planning documents for the East Side Lands to implement
a Groundwater Management Plan pursuant to the Source Water Protection policies in the Regional
Official Plan and the proposed Sourcewater Protection Plan that would, among other matters:
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
v)
b)
That the following revisions to the mapping of the Greenlands Network within the study area be
incorporated in a future amendment to Map 4 of the Regional Official Plan:
i)
ii)
ii)
iv)
c)
Maintain the quantity and distribution of groundwater recharge through the design of
stormwater management facilities and buried infrastructure;
Require Salt Impact Assessments that include consideration of the design of storm water
management facilities to reduce need for winter de-icing practices for plans of subdivision,
new employment and multiple-unit residential land uses;
Require Salt Management Plans that mitigate the risks of winter de-icing for all new
employment and multi-unit residential land uses with large parking lots;
Consider requiring the accreditation of private winter maintenance contractors through the
Smart About Salt™ program; and
Implement a Groundwater Monitoring Program to assess changes to the shallow water table
as a result of development and verify that the pre-development water balance is being
maintained as imperviousness increases and also document whether local private wells are
adversely affected by ongoing development.
Identify woodland areas shown in Attachment A as proposed additions to Significant
Woodlands and Core Environmental Features;
Identify the Lower Freeport Creek Wetland Complex as a proposed addition to the northern
end of the Grandview Woods Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area (ESPA 73) as shown in
Attachment B;
Identify the Freeport Marsh Core Environmental Feature, as shown on Attachment C, as a
proposed new Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area, and
Identify the Middle Block Swamp Core Environmental Feature, as shown on Attachment D as
a proposed new Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area.
That staff continue to work with City of Cambridge staff to reflect linkages and Supporting
Environmental Features identified in the sub-watershed study in the City’s planning documents.
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d)
P-13-080/E-13-097
That staff continue to collaborate with staff of the City of Cambridge, City of Kitchener, and Grand
River Conservation Authority to implement recommendations for the protection, stewardship,
enhancement, and monitoring of the Greenlands Network
SUMMARY:
Watershed Studies are comprehensive scientific studies of the environmental features and functions of a
defined natural drainage area anticipated to undergo extensive new development. They give direction as
to how development may occur with minimal impacts to natural features and functions. Beginning with
the Laurel Creek Watershed Study (1993), a series of watershed studies has been guiding extensive
new development in the Urban Area of the three cities as well as some Township Urban Areas. The
Freeport Creek and Tributary to the Grand Sub-watershed Study (July, 2013) is the most recent
watershed study to be completed. The area under study covers the southwestern portion of the East
Side Lands in the north part of Cambridge and a small contiguous area of Kitchener. The study will guide
development of the area roughly bounded by Highway 8, the Regional Operations Centre, Fountain
Street, Middle Block Road and the Grand River. Freeport Creek flows from the rear of the Regional
Operations Centre toward the Grand River. The “Tributary to the Grand” comprises two smaller
tributaries: Allendale Creek which flows east-west between Middle Block Road and Allendale Road, and
Riverbank Creek located in the floodplain between Riverbank Drive and the Grand River.
Since the mid-1990s, successive Regional Official Plans have required completion of watershed studies
prior to the approval of substantial areas of new development. The Regional Official Policies Plan
(ROPP) and Regional Official Plan (ROP) set out four areas of Regional interest which must be
addressed in watershed studies and approved by Regional Council prior to adoption of Area Municipal
Official Plan Amendments or Community Plans for the study area. Those areas are:
 sustainable management of groundwater resources;
 surface water quality with reference to Regional water-taking requirements and the capability
of receiving watercourses to cumulatively assimilate effluent from wastewater treatment
plants to ensure the ecological integrity of the river system;
 identification, protection and management of the Greenlands Network; and
 implications of proposed development on the provision and upgrading of Regional
infrastructure. [Italics in ROP policy]
Regional staff participated on the study team along with the staff of other agencies, and has reviewed the
final draft of the report with particular attention to the defined areas of Regional interest. Staff is
recommending that the watershed study be approved insofar as these matters are concerned.
1.
Hydrogeology and Source Water
The Water Resources Protection Master Plan, approved by l Council in 2008, guides source water
protection activities over the period 2007-2016. It informs activities and programs leading to the
development of the Grand River Source Protection Plan (SPP) under the Clean Water Act, 2006; and
integrates those initiatives in the Master Plan and SPP. On January 8, 2013, Council approved
recommendations to support the policies that apply to Waterloo Region as part of the submission of the
final proposed SPP to the Province. The Master Plan has delineated Wellhead Protection Sensitivity
Areas (WPSAs) around the Region’s municipal water supply wells and Intake Protection Zones (IPZs)
upstream of the Hidden Valley Surface Water Intake. The ROP identifies the WPSAs and IPZs and
provides for polices to minimise risks to water quality and quantity from future land uses and activities
within the vulnerable areas.
Municipal supply wells on Fountain Street in Cambridge, and along the east side of the Grand River in
Kitchener have protection areas that extend within the study area. The headwaters of Freeport Creek,
two tributaries to the Grand (Allendale and Riverbank Creeks), and the Randall Drain lie within the intake
protection areas for the surface water intake near Hidden Valley Driver in Kitchener. Accordingly, the
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ROP source water protection policies will be applied in the review of future development applications in
these areas on the subject lands.
In addition to the above vulnerable areas, the East Side Lands will also be within future WPSAs for a
new production well at the Regional Operations Centre. While protection areas for this well will not be
delineated until after completion of the Environmental Assessment for this well, it is recommended that
ROP policies for the 100 m diameter area for this well (WPSA – 1) also be applied to protect this
potential future drinking water supply.
The study identified a shallow surficial aquifer and a deep overburden aquifer, the latter of which is the
main water supply aquifer in the study. The shallow aquifer has a high water table and measures to
protect constructed infrastructure will need to be implemented in accordance with this sub-watershed
study. As water levels tend to respond quickly to rainfall events and fluctuate seasonally, this aquifer
plays an important role in maintaining the hydrology of local streams and wetlands, which will need to be
preserved though the implementation of this study. The deep aquifer is separated from the shallow
aquifer by approximately 20 metres of low permeability material indicating that recharge to this aquifer
likely originates outside of the study area.
Future development of the East Side Lands has the potential to affect both the quantity and quality of
groundwater and source water. The sub-watershed study recommends that the quantity and distribution
of recharge under existing conditions be preserved or enhanced subsequent to development through
implementation of stormwater management plans. It will also be necessary to protect groundwater from
spills and chloride impacts due to the application of road salt on large parking lots. The sub-watershed
study recommends a Groundwater Management Plan relying on source water protection policies in the
ROP and those in the proposed SPP to address the impacts arising from stormwater development, spills
and application and storage of salt. Stormwater management facilities will also have to address
maintaining the local water balance and mitigating risks to groundwater quality. Finally, the subwatershed study recommends a Groundwater Monitoring Program to monitor changes to the water table
as a result of development, ensure pre-development water balance is being maintained, and document
that surrounding properties on private wells are not being adversely affected by ongoing development.
2.
Greenlands Network
The ROP has identified several natural features in the study area as Core Environmental Features.
These have been confirmed in the study, and some additional natural features have been identified.
ROP policy 7.F.6 requires that the ROP be amended to reflect the recommendations of the subwatershed study. The study has identified areas of Significant Woodlands to be added to the current
mapping (Attachment A). The lower Freeport Creek Wetland was observed to contain a number of
Regionally-significant species. Although it does not fulfill sufficient criteria to warrant designation as a
stand-alone ESPA, it is recommended that consideration be given to adding the area to the northern end
of Grandview Woods ESPA 73. It is connected to Grandview Woods along the floodplain beneath the
Highway 8 bridge (Attachment B). Detailed analysis of the wetland behind the Regional Operations
Centre has resulted in the area being identified as a Provincially Significant Wetland. This wetland and
the upland woodlands associated with it have also been determined to fulfill sufficient criteria in ROP
policy 7.C.5 to warrant consideration as a new Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area (ESPA (Attachment
C). The study also investigated a wooded swamp in the southwestern quadrant of Fountain Street and
Middle Block Road, and determined that it fulfills adequate criteria to warrant consideration as a new
ESPA (Attachment D). The Greenlands Network articulated in the ROP contains Supporting
Environmental Features and landscape linkages. While these are not “Regionally significant” per se, the
ROP gives direction for such features identified in sub-watershed studies to be addressed in relevant
Area Municipal planning documents. The sub-watershed study has also made a series of
recommendations for the protection, stewardship, enhancement, and monitoring of the Greenlands
Network.
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3.
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Regional Infrastructure
As directed by the ROP, Regional staff will seek to implement the findings and recommendations of the
watershed study through amendments to the ROP, following resolution of the pending appeals, as well
as in amendments to the Cambridge Official Plan and in the community plan.
REPORT:
Watershed studies are defined in the Regional Official Plan (ROP) as “comprehensive scientific studies
that describe how surface water and groundwater and terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems function within
a defined drainage area. These investigations result in recommendations as to where and how
development activity can safely occur so as to minimize flood risks, stream erosion, degradation of water
quality, and negative impacts on natural systems. Recommendations may also identify opportunities for
ecological enhancement and recreation”.
Since the completion of the Laurel Creek Watershed Study (1993), the first full-scale watershed study to
be carried out in Waterloo Region, numerous other similar studies have been completed for areas of the
three cities as well as some Township Urban Areas where significant new development was anticipated.
Watershed studies have become a standard planning tool for newly developing areas. The 2005
Provincial Policy Statement identifies watersheds as “the ecologically meaningful scale for planning.”
Since 1995, successive Regional Official Plans have required completion of watershed studies for major
new areas of development (ROP 7.F.3).
The Freeport Creek and Tributary to the Grand Sub-watershed Study (July, 2013) was initiated in 2010
as a basic component of the East Side Lands Master Environmental Servicing Plan. It will guide the
selection of infrastructure servicing alternatives and the delineation of development areas in the future
employment lands in this area of north Cambridge. The area under study
Figure 1. Freeport Creek and Tributaries to the Grand River Sub-watersheds
covers the southwestern portion of the East Side Lands in North Cambridge and a small contiguous area
of Kitchener. The Detailed Study Area focuses on lands anticipated to undergo development, and
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excludes existing residential areas along Riverbank Drive, Banat Road, and the developed lands along
Maple Grove Road. The study will guide development of the area roughly bounded by Highway 8, the
Regional Operations Centre, Fountain Street, Middle Block Road and the Grand River (see Figure 1).
Freeport Creek flows from the rear of the Regional Operations Centre toward the Grand River. The
“Tributary to the Grand” comprises two smaller tributaries: Allendale Creek which flows east-west
between Middle Block Road and Allendale Road, and Riverbank Creek located in the floodplain between
Riverbank Drive and the Grand River.
ROP policy 7.F.6 directs that no area-specific Area Municipal Official Plan Amendments or Community
Plans may be adopted until the Region has approved the aspects of watershed studies that affect
defined matters of Regional interest. The same policy requires the Region to amend the ROP to
implement recommendations of the sub-watershed study. Regional policy 7.F.5 identifies the four areas
of Regional interest as:
(a) sustainable management of the quality and quantity of groundwater resources;
(b) surface water quality with reference to Regional water-taking requirements and the capability
of receiving watercourses to cumulatively assimilate effluent from wastewater treatment
plants to ensure the ecological integrity of the river system;
(c) identification, protection and management of Landscape Level Systems and Core
Environmental Features; and
(d) implications of proposed development on the provision and upgrading of Regional
infrastructure. [Italics in ROP policy]
Regional staff has participated on the study team and has also reviewed the final draft of the subwatershed study with respect to the areas of Regional interest, and are recommending that the study be
approved as it affects those matters.
1.
Hydrogeology and Source Water
For the purposes of this report, the first two areas of Regional concern relating to groundwater and
surface water-taking will be addressed under one heading which reflects the integrated approach being
taken in this area.
In 2008 Regional Council adopted an update to the Water Resources Protection Master Plan (Master
Plan) as an implementation guide for source water protection activities in the Region of Waterloo from
2007 through 2016. The Master Plan is being implemented in two stages:
1.
2.
activities and programs leading up to the development of the Grand River Source Protection Plan
(SPP) under the Clean Water Act, 2006; and
integrating the activities and programs in the Master Plan with the SPP.
The Clean Water Act and related regulations established a multi-step process that was undertaken over
a number of years to establish a Source Protection Plan (SPP) for the Grand River watershed and
contains policies for reducing the risks to municipal drinking water sources. The completion of technical
work for the Grand River Assessment Report and policy development in the SPP was a collaborative
effort between municipalities and Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) staff. The multistakeholder Lake Erie Source Protection Committee (SPC) is responsible for completing the SPP. On
January 8, 2013 Regional Council approved recommendations supporting the policies that apply to
Waterloo Region for submission of the final proposed SPP to the Province.
As part of the Master Plan, Wellhead Protection Sensitivity Areas (WPSAs) were delineated around the
Region’s municipal water supply wells, and Intake Protection Zones (IPZs) were delineated upstream of
the Hidden Valley Surface Water Intake. The ROP identifies the WPSAs and IPZs and refers to
applicable polices to minimize the risks to water quality and quantity from future land uses and activities
within these vulnerable areas. Within the study area, the following municipal supply systems are present:
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

P-13-080/E-13-097
municipal supply well, P16 is located on Fountain Street south of Maple Grove Drive with
protection areas extending to the north and west of the intersection municipal supply wells for the
Woolner well fields which are located to the east of the Grand River in Kitchener have WPSAs
that extend into the northern portion of the study area; and
the surface water intake for the Mannheim Water Treatment Plant occurs south of the study area
but the intake protection zone extends into the study area up to the headwaters of Freeport
Creek, two tributaries to the Grand (Allendale and Riverbank Creeks) and the Randall Drain.
Accordingly the ROP policies will be applied in the review of future development applications on the
subject lands.
In addition to the above vulnerable areas, the East Side Lands will also be within future WPSAs for a
new production well at the Regional Operations Centre. Details regarding the construction and testing of
the new Maple Grove production well are documented in the draft Environmental Study Report for the
Fountain Street and Maple Grove Area Water Supply Class Environmental Assessment (MTE, May 14,
2013) which will soon be filed with the Province. While the WPSA has not been delineated for this well, it
would be prudent to apply the same level of source protection as an existing well within the 100 m
diameter circle around this well which corresponds to the WPSA -1 area in the ROP.
There are two main water supply aquifers in the study area, a shallow surficial aquifer less than 6 metres
thick, consisting of outwash sand and gravel, and a deep overburden aquifer overlying bedrock at depths
greater than 20 metres, consisting of sand & gravel. The thickness of the deep overburden aquifer
generally ranges from 6 to 18 metres.
A high water table exists in the surficial aquifer in many areas. The water table lies within 2 metres of
ground surface throughout most of the year. Flow within the shallow aquifer is generally controlled by the
local topography. Water levels tend to respond quickly to rainfall events and fluctuate seasonally by as
much as two metres. The shallow aquifer helps maintain the hydrology of local streams and wetlands.
The headwaters of Freeport Creek are “gaining” – characterized by shallow groundwater discharge –
while downstream it appears Freeport Creek is “losing” – i.e. the creek is recharging shallow
groundwater.
The deep overburden aquifer is the main water supply aquifer in the study area with the majority of
private wells and the Region’s municipal water supply wells completed in this aquifer. This aquifer
extends beyond the limits of the study area to the east as well and is the same aquifer used by some of
the Region’s other large municipal wells to the east of the Grand River in Kitchener. At least 20 m of
relatively impermeable silt till separates this aquifer from the overlying surficial aquifer. The regional
groundwater flow direction in the deep aquifer is generally from the northeast to the southwest with local
flow toward the Grand and Speed Rivers. The majority of the study area is classified as having a low
intrinsic vulnerability due to the approximately 20 metres of shallow till soils overlying the deep aquifer.
Water level monitoring during the 40-day aquifer test of the new Maple Grove production well indicates
little to no hydraulic connection between the surficial aquifer and the deep aquifer. Accordingly, the
majority of recharge to the deeper aquifer likely originates to the north east of the study area.
The evaluation of groundwater quality for the study relied on results of shallow groundwater samples
collected as part of the Hespeler West Subwatershed Study (PEIL, 2004). Chloride concentrations at
that time ranged from 15 mg/L to 1,330 mg/L. The elevated chloride levels were associated with local
impacts due to winter road salting and possible impacts due to private septic systems. Nitrate
concentrations ranged from <1 mg/L to 32 mg/L and were associated with current and historic
agricultural use. Groundwater quality testing of the deep aquifer was undertaken as part of the extended
aquifer test for the proposed Maple Grove production well indicates that the groundwater quality of the
deep overburden aquifer meets all the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards except for iron and
manganese. Elevated levels of iron and manganese are common in wells completed in the deep
overburden/bedrock and can be removed from water in treatment plants.
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Freeport Creek was sampled 12 times in 2006 (May to November) and 14 times in 2011 for water quality
parameters. The results of the sampling at King Street indicated spikes in chloride concentration (>400
mg/L) in May through September. Chloride concentrations fell to their lowest levels (<200 mg/L) in late
September. The elevated chloride levels exceeded the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment
(CCME) Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines and were associated with local impacts due to
winter road salting. Nitrate concentrations for the same period were uniformly low, ranging from 0.1 to 0.8
mg/L.
Potential impacts to groundwater and source water associated with development of the East Side Lands
include both quantity and quality. The headwater area of Freeport Creek collects and stores shallow
groundwater and provides baseflow to Freeport Creek during much of the year. Water levels in the
shallow surficial aquifer show significant fluctuations in response to wet and dry conditions. Therefore the
sub-watershed study recommends that the quantity and distribution of recharge under existing conditions
be preserved or enhanced subsequent to development through the implementation of stormwater
management design. The high watertable in the shallow aquifer also has implications for the buried
infrastructure which will service the future employment lands. For example, cut-off collars may be
required in some areas to prevent sewers and watermains from deflecting natural groundwater flows.
Further, it will be essential to monitor sanitary sewers for inflow and infiltration so as not to overburden
wastewater treatment plants.
The quality of the shallow groundwater and surface water within the East Side Lands is susceptible to
impacts from future land uses and activities – particularly spills and chloride impacts from the application
of winter road salt on medium and large parking lots. The sub-watershed study recommends a
Groundwater Management Plan that relies on the water protection policies in the ROP and the proposed
SPP which includes the following




Salt Impact Assessments that include consideration of design of storm water management
facilities to reduce need for winter de-icing practices for plans of subdivision and zoning by-law
amendments proposing new employment land uses and multiple-unit residential development;
Salt Management Plans for future development;
stormwater management facilities would normally be subject to the completion of a detailed
Stormwater Management Plan, including a local water balance and controls to mitigate risks to
water quality
once the source protection plan is approved, utilizing winter maintenance contractors to be Smart
About Salt™ accredited and application of proposed SPP policies dealing with stormwater
management (RW-CW-15 through RW-CW-20) and the application, storage or handling of road
salt (RW-CW-34 through RW-CW-40).
The sub-watershed study recommends a Groundwater Monitoring Program that ascertains whether the
shallow water table decreases or increases beyond the ranges observed historically as a result of
development. As well, water level monitoring will verify that the pre-development water balance is being
maintained as the overall area of imperviousness increases. Additionally, water level and water quality
monitoring will document that surrounding properties on private wells are not being impacted by on-going
development.
2.
Greenlands Network
The ROP identifies the Significant Habitat of Endangered and Threatened Species as Core
Environmental Features. At this time, the habitat of Butternut, Eastern Meadowlark, and Western Chorus
Frog are contained within existing or proposed new Core Environmental Features, and therefore do not
require specific new official plan designations. Once the habitats of other species are defined by the
Province pursuant to the Endangered Species Act, they will be considered Core Environmental Features.
Barn Swallows, a Threatened Species, have been confirmed to be breeding in barns within the study
area. The definition of their foraging habitat will be carried out in consultation with the Ministry of Natural
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Resources through the development of the community plan and the review of individual development
approvals.
Map 4 of the ROP identifies several natural features in the study area as Core Environmental Features
within the Regional Greenlands Network. These features have been confirmed in the study. Following
detailed fieldwork and mapping, some additional areas have been identified as warranting inclusion in
the Regional Greenlands Network as additional areas of Significant Woodlands. (Attachment A) In
addition, a wetland complex in the lower reach of Freeport Creek has been identified as containing
Regionally-significant features. While it does not warrant designation as a new stand-alone ESPA, it is
recommended that it be added to the northern end of the Grandview Woods ESPA (ESPA 73). It is
connected to Grandview Woods along the floodplain beneath the Highway 8 bridge (Attachment B).
Grandview Woods ESPA was designated in 1991, and in 1998, City of Kitchener legal staff agreed to the
addition of the Kirkpatrick Lands which had recently been obtained through a development approval.
Detailed evaluation of the wetland behind the Regional Operations Centre has resulted in the Ministry of
Natural Resources identifying it as a new Provincially Significant Wetland. As such, the ROP would
define it as a Core Environmental Feature. The evaluation of this wetland as Provincially Significant is
rather unusual in that the feature has been used as a stormwater management facility for about twenty
years. This evaluation reflects the presence of a number of Provincially and Regionally-significant
species, despite impacts to natural features and water quality brought about by the operation of the
facility. Given the area’s size and biodiversity values, Regional staff requested the consultants to assess
the feature against the ESPA criteria in the ROP. This analysis has determined that the Freeport Marsh
clearly warrants consideration as a new ESPA. A Technical Data Sheet has been prepared and is
located in Attachment C. Some of the area is now designated a Core Environmental Feature, but the
sub-watershed study has recommended that the designated area be expanded to encompass the high
quality wetlands as well as the areas of Significant Woodland identified on ROP Map 4.
A relatively large swamp woodland in the southwestern quadrant of Fountain Street North and Middle
Block Road was identified in the Hespeler West Sub-watershed Study (2004) as a Provincially Significant
Wetland. The current study has determined that the Middle Block Swamp also fulfills sufficient criteria to
warrant consideration as a new ESPA. A Technical Data Sheet has been prepared and is located in
Attachment D. The area will continue to be identified as a Core Environmental Feature on ROP Map 4.
The sub-watershed study has evaluated natural features within the Grand River valley using the criteria
in ROP policy 7.C.7, and concluded that four meet sufficient criteria to be considered Environmentally
Significant Valley Features. One of the features is the recommended addition to ESPA 73. At this time,
no Environmentally Significant Valley Features have been designated in the ROP. The recommendation
will be addressed when Environmentally Significant Valley Features will be identified in a future
amendment to the ROP.
Policy 7.F.6 requires the Region to amend the ROP to implement recommendations of a sub-watershed
study pertaining to defined Regional interests. An amendment of ROP Map 4 would therefore be required
to designate the additional areas of Significant Woodland, the lower Freeport Wetland, and a significant
portion of the Freeport Marsh as additional Core Environmental Features. At this time, staff recommend
that these mapping amendments be initiated after the various appeals of the 2009 ROP have been
adjudicated by the Ontario Municipal Board or otherwise resolved.
The sub-watershed study has identified several smaller natural features within the study area that do not
meet the criteria for Regional significance, but that may qualify as Supporting Environmental Features or
Locally Significant Natural Areas. Staff will work with Cambridge staff in the preparation of the future
Community Plan to see that these features are appropriately protected.
The sub-watershed study contains numerous recommendations for the protection, stewardship,
enhancement, and monitoring of the Greenlands Network. These will be implemented through the
forthcoming community plan as well as through the approval of individual development applications.
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3.
P-13-080/E-13-097
Regional Infrastructure
The Sub-watershed Study is part of a larger Master Environmental Servicing Plan which addresses
Regional and Area Municipal infrastructure, and so it is not part of this study. This is being addressed in
a forthcoming report.
Regional approval of the elements of the Freeport Creek and Tributaries to the Grand Sub-Watershed
Study and East Side Lands Master Environmental Servicing Plan will clear the way for City of Cambridge
Official Plan Amendments and other development applications for lands within the study area. In
addition, ROP policy 7.F.7 requires the City to amend its official plan to implement appropriate
recommendations from this sub-watershed study. In processing individual development applications, the
City and Region will also implement the recommendations as appropriate.
Area Municipal Consultation/Coordination
Staff from the cities of Cambridge and Kitchener has worked closely with Regional and Grand River
Conservation Authority (GRCA) staff on the project team for the sub-watershed study and MESP. This
collaboration will continue through the ensuing Official Plan Amendments and Community Plan.
A draft of this report was provided to Cambridge, Kitchener and GRCA staff for review on Thursday,
August 1, 2013.
The completion and implementation of the sub-watershed study and MESP will help achieve the strategic
objective to integrate environmental considerations into Regional decision-making processes. It is also a
significant milestone in advancing the East Side Employment Lands to development readiness.
The Freeport Creek and Tributaries to the Grand Sub-watershed Study was in part paid for through
previous Regional Budget allocations for the East Side Lands MESP.
Community Planning and Hydrogeology and Source Water Protection staff have collaborated in the
review of the watershed study and the preparation of this report.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A - Proposed amendments to Core Environmental Features on ROP Map 4 (Greenlands
Network)
Attachment B - Amended Technical Data Sheet for Grandview Woods Environmentally Sensitive
Policy Area (ESPA 73)
Attachment C - Draft Technical Data Sheet for recommended Freeport Grove Marsh Environmentally
Sensitive Policy Area
Attachment D - Draft Technical Data Sheet for recommended Middle Block Swamp Environmentally
Sensitive Policy Area
PREPARED BY: Chris Gosselin, Manager of Environmental Planning
Don Corbett, Senior Hydrogeologist
APPROVED BY: Rob Horne, Commissioner of Planning, Housing and Community Services
Thomas Schmidt, Commissioner of Transportation and Environmental Services
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Attachment A
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ATTACHMENT B
GRANDVIEW WOODS
Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area 73
Municipality:
General Location:
Ownership:
Size:
Physiographic Region:
Eco-region:
Soils:
City of Kitchener
South of where Highway 8 meets the Grand River
Public/Some Private
57.7 hectares (117.8 acres)
Spillways
Central Grand River
Well drained, fine sandy loam with shallow organic soils; marl
General Description
The dominant community at the site is a Maple-Beech-White Ash floodplain forest. A fine quality
Sugar Maple-Beech-Hemlock stand with a very rich herbaceous layer slopes down to the floodplain
community along the southern edge of the sensitive area. Significant spring seepage emanates from
this slope. Several of the springs are rich with calcium carbonate and the waters "petrify" organic
debris with which they come in contact. The outstanding feature at this site is a late successional
Tamarack-dominated wetland located next to an excavated pond. The area is known as a local
winter deeryard.
North of the Highway 8 bridge, the Lower Freeport Creek Wetland Complex contains swamp,
marsh, and open water habitat and discharges into the adjacent Grand River. During spring
flooding, it provides suitable spawning habitat for pike. This wetland supports several Regionally
significant plant species and provides habitat for local wildlife.
E.S.P.A. Criteria Fulfilled (based on R.O.P.P. Policy 4.3.2)
B.1
comprise ecological communities deemed unusual, of outstanding quality, or
particularly representative regionally, provincially or nationally
This high quality bog system is Regionally unique because of its “perched” situation. The
presence of many significant bog species not commonly associated in the Region: Labrador
Tea (Ledum groenlandicum), Leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata), Pitcher Plant
(Sarracenia purpurea), and species of Sundew (e.g. Drosera intermedia) is notable. Also
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P-13-080/E-13-097
present in this association is a good concentration of orhids, notably an abundance of
Showy Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium reginae) and Loesel’s Twayblade (Liparis loeselii).
B.3
provide a large area of natural habitat of a least 20 hectares which affords
habitat to species intolerant of human intrusion
Access to the area is limited to the Walter Bean Trail. The steep terrace slopes, wetlands,
and extensive floodplain meadow do not invite casual human intrusion.
B.4
C.2
provide habitat for organisms indigenous to the Region recognized as nationally,
provincially, or regionally significant
Plants
Collinsonia Canadensis
Cypripedium reginae
Drosera intermedia
Gaultheria hispidula
Halenia deflexa
Nuphar odorata
Polymnia Canadensis
Pyrola asarifolia
Scrophularia marilandica
Sicyos angulatus
Spartina pectinata
Viola renifolia
Horsebalm
Showy Lady’s Slipper
Spatulate-leaved Sundew
Creeping Snowberry
Spurred Gentian
Fragrant Water-Lily
Leafcup
Pink Pyrola
Carpenter’s Square
One-Seeded Bur Cucumber
Freshwater Cord Grass
Kidney-leaved Violet
Breeding Birds
Accipiter cooperii
Sturnella magna
Cooper’s Hawk
Eastern Meadowlark
Mammals
Mustela vison
Mink
perform a vital ecological function such as maintaining the hydrological balance over
a widespread area by acting as a natural water storage, discharge or recharge area
Wetlands on the river terrace slopes receive discharge from the tablelands adjacent to
the river valley.
C.4
serve as major migratory stop-overs
The area is located along the Grand River fly-way, and has long been noted for
its diverse birdlife throughout the year.
C.5
contain landforms deemed unusual or particularly representative at the regional scale
The area contains a good representation of the successive river terraces sculpted by the
post-glacial Grand River.
Revised on: 24 July 2013
Printed on: 08 August 2013
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ATTACHMENT C
FREEPORT MARSH
Proposed Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area
Municipality:
Location:
General Location:
Ownership:
Size:
Eco-region:
Soils:
City of Cambridge
Con. Beasley’s Broken Front Pt Lots 13, 19, 20
North of Regional Operations Centre
Public and Private
Till plain
Central Grand River
Loams and organic soils
General Description
Located near the headwaters of Freeport Creek, this area is a former wooded swamp. Construction
of a stormwater management facility in the early 1990s resulted in hundreds of trees bring killed as
the swamp was drowned. These now stand as snags providing valuable wildlife habitat. Over time
the wetland expanded and transformed into an extensive marsh ecosystem with areas of open water
and submerged aquatic communities and marshes. The central marsh is ringed with a fringe of
wooded swamp, upland forest, and meadows. Although parts of the marsh are used for stormwater
management, the wetland now supports a rich array of significant plant and animal species.
E.S.P.A. Criteria Fulfilled (based on R.O.P. Policy 7.C.5)
B.1
comprise ecological communities deemed unusual, of outstanding quality, or
particularly representative regionally, provincially or nationally
Freeport Marsh is an extensive marsh of relatively recent origin. The many snags
(dead standing trees) provide valuable wildlife habitat. The marsh is home to
several species of marsh birds as well as significant species of herpetofauna.
B.3
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provide a large area of natural habitat of a least 20 hectares which affords
habitat to species intolerant of human intrusion
The central portion of the area is difficult to access and provides a secluded
habitat for marsh birds and herpetofauna.
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B.4
P-13-080/E-13-097
Plants
Aster ciliolatus
Cardamine bulbosa
Carex flava
Carex woodii
Celtis occidentalis
Cypripedium parviflorum
Glyceria canadensis
Lobelia cardinalis
Populus deltoides
Ranunculus flabellaris
Wolffia columbiana
Xanthoxylum Americana
Lindley’s Aster
White Spring Cress
Yellow Sedge
Pretty or Wood’s Sedge
Hackberry
Small Yellow Lady’s Slipper
Rattlesnake Manna Grass
Cardinal Flower
Eastern Cottonwood
Yellow Water Buttercup
Columbia Water Meal
Prickly Ash
Breeding Birds
Pied-billed Grebe
Sora
Common Moorhen
Pileated Woodpecker
American Redstart
Ovenbird
Wood Pewee (national)
Herpetofauna
Snapping Turtle
Western Chorus Frog
C.1
Podilymbus podiceps
Porzana carolina
Gallinula chloropus
Drycopus pileatus
Setophaga ruticilla
Seiurus aurocapilla
Contopus virens
Chelydra serpentina
Pseudacris triseriata
contain an unusual diversity of native life forms due to varied topography,
microclimates, soils, and/or drainage regimes
Although the area is relatively flat, it contains a variety of wetland and upland ecological
communities due to variations in drainage characteristics. These communities comprise
marsh and swamp wetland communities in association with upland woodlands and some
areas of meadow, and sustain a wide diversity of native flora and fauna.
C.2
perform a vital ecological function such as maintaining the hydrological balance over
a widespread area by acting as a natural water storage, discharge or recharge area
The area serves a water storage function for an area of over 200 hectares in the upper
part of the Freeport Creek watershed.
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ATTACHMENT D
MIDDLE BLOCK SWAMP
Proposed Environmentally Sensitive Policy Area
Municipality:
Location:
General Location:
Ownership:
Size:
Eco-region:
Soils:
City of Cambridge
Con. Beasley’s Broken Front Part Lots 16 & 17
North of Regional Operations Centre
Private
Till plain
Central Grand River
Loams and organic soils
General Description
Most of this area is a wooded swamp which has extensive vernal ponding and is largely flooded in spring.
The woodland contains an assemblage of swamp vegetation on small hummocks and other areas around
the ponds. The woodland has been observed to sustain populations of Regionally significant and
nationally significant breeding birds. The area is known to serve as a Turkey Vulture summer roosting
area. Due to the compact shape of the main part of the area, the woodland contains some forest interior
habitat. Ecological restoration recommended in the Freeport Creek and Tributaries to the Grand River
Sub-watershed Study will increase the contiguous area of this feature.
E.S.P.A. Criteria Fulfilled (based on R.O.P. Policy 7.C.5)
B.2
contain critical habitats which are uncommon or remnants of once extensive habitats such
as old growth forest, forest interior habitat, Carolinian forest, prairie-savanna, bogs, fens,
marl meadows, and cold water stream
The woodland contains approximately 3.19 hectares of forest interior habitat.
B.4
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Plants
Cardamine bulbosa
Cypripedium calceolus
Glyceria canadensis
Report: P-13-080/E-13-097
Spring Cress
Small Yellow Lady’s Slipper
Rattlesnake Manna Grass
Breeding Birds
Turkey Vulture
Pileated Woodpecker
Brown Creeper,
Eastern Wood Pewee (national)
Wood Thrush (national)
Cathartes aura
Dryocopus pileatus
Certhia americana
Cantopus virens
Hylocichla mustinela
3
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REGION OF WATERLOO
Report: E-13-096
TRANSPORTATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Transportation
TO:
Chair Jim Wideman and Members of the Planning and Works Committee
DATE:
August 13, 2013
SUBJECT:
ROSEVILLE ROAD (REGIONAL ROAD 46) 80 KM/H POSTED SPEED LIMIT
REVIEW NEAR BARRIE’S LAKE TURTLE CROSSING, TOWNSHIP OF
NORTH DUMFRIES
FILE CODE: T01-20/46
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the Regional Municipality of Waterloo take no action regarding the existing 80 km/h
posted speed limit on Roseville Road (Regional Road 46) from 150 metres east of Brown
Avenue to the City of Cambridge boundary as outlined in report E-13-096, dated
August 13, 2013.
SUMMARY:
NIL
REPORT:
As outlined in report E-13-068/ P-13-059, staff received concerns with regard to the significant
numbers of turtles being struck by motorists along Roseville Road (Regional Road 46) in the
vicinity of Barrie’s Lake, in the Township of North Dumfries just west of the City of Cambridge
boundary. It was requested that staff review the need for warning signs to alert motorists to
turtles crossing Roseville Road and to also consider reducing the posted speed limit.
As a result of the review oversized “Wildlife Crossing” warning signs were installed facing both
eastbound and westbound motorists approaching the area where turtles are migrating. In
addition to the wildlife crossing signs, turtle signs above the wildlife crossing signs were also
installed. These measures were implemented at the requests of concerned citizens witnessing
turtle deaths and to inform motorists of crossing turtles. The effects of these signs are
unknown. Staff also recommended initiatives, such as eco-passages to address turtle deaths
along Roseville Road.
At its scheduled meeting dated June 5, 2013, Regional Council passed a motion requesting that
Regional Transportation Division staff prepare a report to consider a speed reduction to 60km/h
along Roseville Road from 150 metres east of Brown Avenue to the City of Cambridge limits, in
the Township of North Dumfries. A copy of the June 5th, 2013 report (E-13-068/ P-13-059) and
the accompanying resolution is included in Appendix A.
On July 2, 2013 at a meeting of Township of North Dumfries Council, a resolution was passed
to recommend that Regional staff reduce the existing 80 km/h speed limit to 60 km/h for the
section of Roseville Road from approximately half way between Edworthy Side Road and
Dickie Settlement Road east to the City of Cambridge boundary. A copy of the Township of
North Dumfries Council resolution is also included in Appendix B.
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Report: E-13-096
Figure 1 shows the subject section of Roseville Road under review.
Figure 1 – Roseville Road Speed Limit Review
Barrie's Lake
Posted Speed Limit Under Review
60km/h Posted Speed
80km/h Posted Speed
50km/h Posted Speed
Speed surveys conducted on June 13, 2013 captured the average travel speeds of 2,630
vehicles during a 24-hour period. The survey shows that the average travel speed of motorists
along this section of Roseville Road is 77 km/h with a posted speed limit of 80km/h. Staff
anticipates that motorists will continue to travel at or near the current average speed of 77 km/h
should the posted speed limit be reduced.
In addition to 24-hour speed surveys, a GPS speed survey was conducted between Edworthy
Sideroad and the City of Cambridge boundary. The GPS surveys show that the average travel
speed of motorists between Edworthy Sideroad and the City of Cambridge boundary is
approximately 73km/h.
The survey also illustrates that the average travel speed is
approximately 74 km/h in the 60 km/h speed zone east of Edworthy Sideroad and that it
increases close to 80 km/h within the 80 km/h speed zone section of Roseville Road where
turtles are migrating. Figure 2 shows the average speed profiles of GPS speed surveys along
Roseville Road between Edworthy Sideroad and the City of Cambridge boundary. Figure 3
shows the 85th percentile speed profiles of GPS surveys along the same section of Roseville
Road. The 85th percentile speed can be described as the speed at which 85% of those
surveyed are travelling at or below..
Figure 2 – Average Speed Profiles of GPS Survey along Roseville Road
90
90
Eastbound Average Speed
Westbound Average Speed
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Distance (Km)
2.72
3.0
2.65
2.5
2.57
2.42
2.35
2.2
2.28
Posted Speed
50 km/h
2.13
2.05
1.98
1.91
1.83
1.61
1.6
1.54
1.46
1.39
1.31
1.24
1.17
1.09
1.02
0.94
0.8
0.87
0.72
0.65
0.5
0.57
0.43
0.35
0.2
0.28
0.13
0.06
-0.02
-0.18
-0.26
- 0.2
-0.1
50
50
1.76
Posted Speed
80 km/h
Posted Speed - 60 km/h
1.68
60
60
Brown Avenue
70
70
Cambridge Boundary
80
80
Edworthy Sideroad
Travel Speed (Km / h)
Village of Brown
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Report: E-13-096
Figure 2 – 85th Percentile Speed Profiles of GPS Survey along Roseville Road
100
100
Eastbound Average Speed
Westbound Average Speed
9090
Distance (Km)
2.72
3.0
2.65
2.5
2.57
2.42
2.35
2.2
2.28
Posted Speed
50 km/h
2.13
2.05
1.98
1.91
1.83
1.61
1.6
1.54
1.46
1.39
1.31
1.24
1.17
1.09
1.02
0.94
0.8
0.87
0.72
0.65
0.5
0.57
0.43
0.35
0.2
0.28
0.13
0.06
-0.1
-0.18
-0.26
- 0.2
-0.02
5050
1.76
Posted Speed
80 km/h
Posted Speed - 60 km/h
1.68
6060
Brown Avenue
7070
Cambridge Boundary
8080
Edworthy Sideroad
Travel Speed (Km / h)
Village of Brown
Research has shown that most drivers travel at a speed they consider to be comfortable,
regardless of posted speed limits. Studies, undertaken “before” and “after” revised speed limits
have been posted in the Region of Waterloo have shown that there are no significant changes
in average vehicle speeds following the posting of the signs. Research elsewhere indicates
similar results, that changing the speed limit does not change the average speed. Included in
Appendix C is a table that shows the results of our before/after surveys where the posted speed
limit was changed though the use of signage only. Of the 10 locations surveyed, 6 locations
show an increase in the average travel speed of approximately 4.6 km/h and the remaining 4
locations show an average decrease of approximately 2.5 km/h when lowering of the posted
speed limit.
To allow for public comment, Transportation staff placed information signs from July 8, 2013 to
July 19, 2013 along Roseville Road requesting comments from the public through the Region’s
website or via telephone. An internet questionnaire was set up to receive comments and a
telephone number was provided. As a follow up to the web survey, 89 questionnaires were
mailed to residents on Roseville Road within the Brown settlement limits to the City of
Cambridge limits as well as to residents within the subdivision of Brown.
A total of 73 responses were received showing that 61.6% of respondents are in support of
reducing the speed limit to 60 km/h with the installation of infrastructure such as eco-passages
for turtle safety. Table 1 below summarizes our questionnaire results.
Table 1 – Questionnaire Results
Speed Limit Remains at 80km/h with the Installation of EcoPassages, Temporary Exclusion Fencing, Creation of a
suitable Habitat on the South Side of Roseville Road
Speed Limit Remains at 80km/h without the Installation of EcoPassages, Temporary Exclusion Fencing, Creation of a
Speed Reduction to 60km/h with the Installation of EcoPassages, Temporary Exclusion Fencing, Creation of a
Speed Reduction to 60km/h without the Installation of EcoPassages, Temporary Exclusion Fencing, Creation of a
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Total Support
Percent
11
15%
7
9.6%
45
61.6%
10
13.7%
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Report: E-13-096
In general those that support a speed reduction to 60 km/h have concerns with both wildlife
crossing Roseville Road and pedestrian safety. Those that oppose reducing the speed limit
indicate that changing the speed limit will not reduce the number of turtle deaths.
Waterloo Regional Police Services staff responded to the survey and has indicated that they
support the posted speed limit remaining at 80km/h along this section of Roseville Road.
As approved in Report E-13-068/P-13-059, dated May 28, 2013, other measures being
considered, and if feasible, will be implemented to minimize the number of turtle crossings on
Roseville Road. These measures include:



Erecting temporary exclusion fencing;
Creating a suitable turtle habitat on the south side of Roseville Road; and
Constructing one or more eco-passages north of Barrie’s Lake across Roseville Road.
The implementation of one or all the above measures is anticipated to significantly reduce turtle
deaths currently being experienced on Roseville Road in the vicinity of Barrie’s Lake.
Community Planning staff are meeting with local landowners and Township of North Dumfries
staff to investigate the potential to create a turtle breeding habitat on the south side of Roseville
Road near Barrie’s lake as a means of discouraging turtles from crossing to the ploughed
farmland on the north side of the road. For a potential longer-term solution, the City of
Cambridge-led Cambridge West Master Environmental Servicing Plan is reviewing possible new
alignments for Blenheim Road and Roseville Road which could have implications for wildlife
crossing Roseville Road near Barrie’s Lake. Regional staff will be involved in the review of the
alternative alignments in terms of impacts on Roseville Road. A Public Information Center to
present the results of the Cambridge West Master Environmental Servicing Plan is tentatively
scheduled for October 2013.
Staff therefore recommends not reducing the 80 km/h speed limit near Barrie’s Lake because:





It is not likely to change driver behavior;
It is not anticipated to reduce the number of turtle deaths;
It is likely to cause people assisting turtles and recreational users to feel safer as they
assume motorists are travelling slower when in reality they will not thus creating a more
hazardous environment;
The Waterloo Regional Police Services staff support an 80 km/h speed zone; and
Other available measures are more likely to address turtle safety.
This report addresses the Region’s goal to implement proven roadway safety strategies and
education to enhance the safety of our roadways (Strategic Objective 3.3.2).
NIL
Staff from Planning are coordinating the measures to reduce the number of turtle crossings.
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ATTACHMENTS:
Appendix A -
Report E-13-068/ P-13-059 and the accompanying resolution
Appendix B -
Correspondence received from the Township of North Dumfries,
dated July 4, 2013
Appendix C -
Before/after speed surveys where the posted speed was reduced
PREPARED BY: Patricia Heft, Engineering Technologist, Traffic Engineering
APPROVED BY: Thomas Schmidt, Commissioner, Transportation and Environmental Services
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APPENDIX C
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Page 14 of 14
ACTIVE EEAC SUB-COMMITTEES
APPLICATION
MEMBERS
DATE
STRUCK
WRDSB Property, Lackner &
Fairway, Kitchener
LC, RD, AD,
GM, AF
Sep 25/12
LVH Developments, 1395 Main
Street, Cambridge
Cambridge Golf Club
AD, RD, WC,
CP, GM
WC, LE, AF,
AD, RD, GM
LC AF AM GM
CP
TC JJ GM CP
Apr 24/12
655 New Dundee Road,
Kitchener
Empire Riverland 2 Subdivision,
Breslau
CIGI Conference Centre
STATUS
Apr 24/12
Subcommittee reporting
Aug. 13/13 on
developable area only
Subcommittee reporting
Aug. 13/13
Awaiting Scoped EIS
Jan 31/12
Awaiting Scoped EIS
CM AF TC PD
AM YM
AF GM TC
Oct 25/11
Awaiting Info for ESPA
designation
Awaiting Scoped EIS
Oct 25/11
Awaiting Scoped EIS
TC JE AF GM
CP YM
CM DM TC
TC PD AF JJ
GM CP
Mar 29/11
Awaiting Scoped E.I.S.
Jan 26/10
Mar 27/09
Dec 15/09
Waterloo North Water Supply
Class EA
Williamsburg: Cook Homes and
Schlegel Subdivisions
Highland Ridge Subdivision
Highway 24 E.A.
GM CP
Dec 16/08
Awaiting Scoped E.I.S.
Public Meeting held Mar
8/11; awaiting final
approval
Pending
TC WC AF GM
AW
TC JJ GM CM
AF CM TC
Dec 16/08
Scoped EIS under review
Sept 09/08
June 26/07
Southeast Galt Neighbourhoods
2&3
Wideman Road and Erbsville
Road
River Road Extension E.A.
Ecogen E.A.
WC CM (site
May 29/07
Awaiting scoped E.I.S.
Reviewing study
protocols
Awaiting EIS
GM TC CM YM
Sep 26/06
TC CM
JJ
Mar 30/04
Sep 24/02
Feb 25/03
Sept 25/01
Feb 27/01
1140 Townline Road
Grandview Woods Trail
Scott St & Wrigley Rd, Ayr
Greenlands Network
Implementation Guideline
Highway 7 E.A.
Revised: August 6, 2013
visit only)
(site visit only)
Oct 25/11
Awaiting submission of
EIS
Ongoing
Awaiting E.A.
Awaiting detailed design

regional municipality of waterloo ecological and environmental

Transcription

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