NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY

Transcription

NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY
CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING
NO. BOD-05-15
Friday May 22, 2015
9:00 A.M.
AGENDA
MEETING LOCATION: ‘note change in location’
The Town of Innisfil Municipal Office
2101 Innisfil Beach Road,
Innisfil Ontario L9S 1A1
Room: Council Chambers
Minutes and agendas are available on our website:
www.nvca.on.ca
UPCOMING EVENTS
(Visit our website for more information www.nvca.on.ca)
Trees for Streams Work Party Days
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2015 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Bradford West Gwillimbury
Volunteers needed! This event is hosted in partnership with the South Simcoe Streams
Network.
NVCA Board of Directors Meeting (BOD 06-15)
Date: Friday, June 26, 2015 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Tiffin Centre for Conservation, Utopia
River Bends on the Mend Part 1 – Habitat Restoration
Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2015 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Minesing Wetlands, near Angus
Volunteers needed! This event is hosted in partnership with the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
Blacksmithing Course
Date: Saturday, July 25, 2015 - Sunday, July 26, 2015
Location: Fort Willow Conservation Area
This event is hosted by the Friends of Historic Fort Willow.
Log, Line and Anchor - Creating Fish Habitat on the Mad River
Date: Friday, August 07, 2015 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Minesing Wetlands, near Angus
Volunteers needed! This event is hosted in partnership with the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
Page 1
CALL TO ORDER
1.
DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST
2.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the agenda for the May 22, 2015 meeting No.
BOD-05-15 dated May 22, 2015 be approved.
3.
MINUTES
3.1 Minutes of the Board of Directors meeting No. BOD-04-15
dated April 24, 2015
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the minutes of the Board of Directors meeting No.
BOD-04-15 dated April 24, 2015 be approved.
Pg. 8
Pg. 16
3.2
Minutes of the Nottawasaga Valley Source Protection
Authority No. NVSPA-01-15 dated April 24, 2015
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the minutes of the Nottawasaga Valley Source
Protection Authority No. NVSPA-01-15 dated April 24, 2015 be received.
4.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
(a)
Byron Wesson, Director, Land, Education and Stewardship
Services will provide an update on $15,000 in funding support
received from the Township of Essa which will be applied towards
the Pine River Channel Realignment Project. This will provide
matching “landowner” funds towards our Federal N-WIP
Clean Up Fund program.
The following projects are being completed under the Nottawasaga
Watershed Improvement Project supported through Environment Canada’s
Lake Simcoe -Southern Georgian Bay Clean Up Fund.
(b)
The annual N-WIP Collingwood Community Black Ash Creek tree plant,
held on May 9/15. Volunteers braved the heat to plant 400 seedlings
along the banks of Black Ash Creek.
Thank you to Councillor Cam Ecclestone, Town of Collingwood and
all of the volunteers who participated.
Page 2
(c)
The South Simcoe Streams Network and volunteers gathered on
May 9/15 to plant 300 seedlings along the banks of the Nottawasaga
River in Angus.
Thank you to Councillor Keith White, Township of Essa for
participating at the tree plant and for coordinating a short video of
the work day.
The following projects are being completed under the Innisfil Creek and
Upper Nottawasaga Watershed Improvement Project supported through
Environment Canada’s Lake Simcoe -Southern Georgian Bay Clean
Up Fund.
(d)
The Headwaters Streams Committee participated in a tree plant
along Baker Creek with the support of the Ministry of Natural
Resources and Forestry Provincial Land Stewardship and Habitat
Restoration Program and Environment Canada.
Thank you to Mayor Laura Ryan and Councillor Fred Nix, Town of
Mono, and all of the volunteers for participating.
A special thanks to Mayor Laura Ryan who provided a delicious
lunch.
(e)
The South Simcoe Streams Network and volunteers planted
400 native trees and shrubs along Sheldon Creek, in the Township
of Adjala-Tosorontio on April 26/15.
Thank you to Councillor Bob Meadows, Township of AdjalaTosorontio for participating in the tree plant.
(f)
5.
2014 Annual Report and Municipal Supplement.
PRESENTATIONS
a) Overview of the Stewardship, Forestry and Land programs
Byron Wesson, Director, Land, Education and Stewardship Services,
Fred Dobbs, Manager, Stewardship Services and Rick Grillmayer,
Manager, Forestry will present an overview of their programs.
b) History of Conservation Authority/NVCA Funding
Gayle Wood, Chief Administrative Officer will present the History
of Conservation Authority/NVCA Funding. The report is attached
to the agenda.
Pg. 21
Page 3
6.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF LAND, EDUCATION AND
STEWARDSHIP SERVICES.
6.1 NVCA Vehicle purchase (Staff Report No. 29-05-15-BOD)
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: The Board receive Staff Report No. 29-05-15-BOD
regarding NVCA Vehicle purchase; and
Pg. 33
FUTHER THAT: the Board approve staff’s recommendation to purchase
a 2015 Toyota Tundra Pickup Truck from Jacksons Toyota at a cost
not to exceed $30,973.05 including a trade in allowance for a 2004
Dodge Pickup truck and HST and that the Capital Repair and
Replacement Reserve be used to finance purchase as per the
approved 2015 budget
6.2
NVCA Conservation Land Use
(Staff Report No. 30-05-15-BOD)
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 30-05-15-BOD be received and
the protocol regarding the consideration of future NVCA property
leases be approved.
7.
Pg. 36
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF PLANNING SERVICES
7.1
Permits/Approvals under the Conservation Authorities
Act for the Period April 11, 2015 to May 5, 2015
(Staff Report No. 31-05-15-BOD) (Details provided in Closed
Session on request)
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the Permits and Approvals Staff Report
No. 31-05-15-BOD issued by staff for the period April 11, 2015 to
May 5, 2015, be received by the Board of Directors.
Pg. 41
Page 4
8.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICES
8.1
Financial Activity Report Summary to April 30, 2015
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the Accounts Receivable as at April 30, 2015 in the
amount of $411,291.14 including Planning items of $293,688.00 be
received; and
Pg. 43
FURTHER THAT: disbursements as at April 30, 2015 in the sum of
$479,707.15 including wages (net of withholdings) of $164,841.42 be
received; and
FURTHER THAT: the Unaudited Combined Statement of Operations
Program Summary as at April 30, 2015 be received.
8.2
2015 First Quarter Budget Report
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the NVCA Board receive for information Staff
Report No. 33-05-15-BOD regarding the 2015 First Quarter budget
report; and
Pg. 46
FURTHER THAT: staff continue to monitor budget activities.
8.3 Employee Handbook Update (Staff Report No. 34-05-15-BOD)
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the Board of Directors endorse the additions and
updates to the Employee Handbook as described in Staff Report
No. 34-05-15-BOD dated May 22, 2015.
Pg. 51
8.4
Pg. 56
Communications Report for April 14, 2015 to May 6, 2015
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the Communications Staff Report No. 34-05-15-BOD
for April 14, 2015 to May 6, 2015 be received by the Board of Directors.
Page 5
9.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNCIAL
SERVICES
Pg. 89
9.1 Log Jams within the NVCA Watershed
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 36-05-15-BOD regarding log jams
within the NVCA watershed, as requested by the Board of Directors,
be received.
9.2
Pg. 92
National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP)
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the Board of Directors approved Staff Report No. 37-05-15BOD on the National Disaster Mitigation Program; and
FURTHER THAT: the Board of Directors approve the use of the Operational
Reserve Fund, in principle, to serve as matching funding for a NVCA application
for a watershed Risk Assessment under the NDMP; and
FURTHER THAT: staff seek Board approval for a final appropriation from the
Operational Reserve Fund should federal NDMP funding be approved.
10.
MOTION FOR WHICH NOTICE HAS BEEN GIVEN
10.1 Motion to Introduce Oath of Office for the Board of
Directors
Councillor Deb Doherty, Town of Collingwood
Resolution:
WHEREAS: all Conservation Authorities are guided by a Board of
Directors comprised of elected municipal policy makers who are governed
by the Municipal Act and/or municipal appointees; and
WHEREAS: all Boards of Directors of Conservation Authorities are
governed by The Conservation Authorities Act; and
WHEREAS: the primary mission of the Conservation Authority is
exclusively environmental - to protect, enhance and restore water and
land and to protect life and property from flooding and erosion; and
Page 6
WHEREAS: the Conservation Authority, its Board of Directors and
Staff are ultimately responsible for the approval of plans that ensure
Source Water Protection while municipalities are primarily responsible for
implementation of plans that provide for clean water under the
Clean Water Act; therefore
BE IT RESOLVED: that the Board of Directors of the Nottawasaga
Valley Conservation Authority be required to take an Oath of Office
that binds them to the singular governance and mission of the
Conservation Authority.
11.
CORRESPONDENCE
a) Conservation Ontario Meeting #1/15 Minutes, dated
March 30/15.
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: the correspondence in agenda BOD-05-15 be
received.
Pg. 97
ADJOURN
Resolution:
RESOLVED THAT: this BOD-05-14 meeting adjourn at ________
to meet again at the call of the chair.
Page 7
Nottawasaga Valley
Conservation Authority
Board of Directors Meeting No. BOD-04-15
Friday April 24, 2015
8195 8th Line, Utopia, ON.
MINUTES
NVCA Officers Present:
Chair, Councillor Doug Lougheed
Deputy Mayor Gail Ardiel, Vice Chair
Deputy Mayor Nina Bifolchi, Past Chair
Innisfil (Town)
Blue Mountains (Town)
Wasaga Beach (Town) (left at 11:20 a.m.)
NVCA Board Members Present:
Councillor Bob Meadows
Councillor Gail Little
Councillor Arif Khan
Councillor Sergio Morales
Councillor Ron Orr
Councillor Deb Doherty
Councillor Cam Ecclestone
Councillor Connie Leishman
Councillor Michael Smith
Councillor Keith White,
Councillor Rob Nicol
Councillor Fred Nix
Councillor Earl Hawkins
Councillor Donna Jebb
Mayor Rick Milne
Councillor Phil Hall
Councillor Barbara Coutanche
Councillor Walter Benotto
Mayor Bill French
Councillor Perry Ritchie
Mayor Brian Smith
Adjala-Tosorontio (Township)
Amaranth (Township)
Barrie (City)
Barrie (City)
Bradford West Gwillimbury (Town)
Collingwood (Town)
Collingwood (Town)
Clearview (Township)
Essa (Township) left at 12:30 p.m.
Essa (Township)
Innisfil (Town)
Mono (Town)
Mulmur (Township)
New Tecumseth (Town)
New Tecumseth (Town) arrived at 10:10 a.m.
Oro-Medonte (Township) left at 12:30 p.m.
Oro-Medonte (Township)
Shelburne (Town)
Springwater (Township) left at 12:30 p.m.
Springwater (Township) left at 12:30 p.m.
Wasaga Beach (Town) left at 12:30 p.m.
Regrets:
Councillor Terry Mokriy
Grey Highlands (Municipality)
Mayor Chris Vanderkruys
Mayor Darren White
Melancthon (Township)
Guests:
Derek D’Angelo, Partner, KPMG LLP Chartered Accountants
Jason Reynar, Deputy CAO/Town Solicitor, Town of Innisfil
Rotary Club of Barrie: Ted Barnaby, President, Michael LeCollier, Chair, Environmental
Committee and Kevin Shanks, Incoming Chair, Environmental Committee
Page 8
NVCA Staff Present:
D. Gayle Wood, Chief Administrative Officer, Chris Hibberd, Director of Planning
Services, Sheryl Flannagan, Director, Corporate Services, Glenn Switzer, Director,
Engineering & IT, Byron Wesson, Director, Land, Education and Stewardship Services,
Tom Reeve, Senior Manager, Engineering Services, Ryan Post, Hydrogeologist/Source
Protection Coordinator, Heather Kepran, Communications Coordinator, Christine Knapp,
General Accountant, Laurie Barron, Coordinator, CAO and Corporate Services
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Lougheed called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
1.
DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Councillor Michael Smith and Councillor Keith White, Township of Essa declared a
conflict of interest on item No. 12, In-camera session regarding the Township of Essa
Statement of Claim. They were not present at the in-camera session regarding this
agenda item.
2.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
RES:#1
Moved by: Donna Jebb
Seconded by: Perry Ritchie
RESOLVED THAT: the agenda for the April 24, 2015 meeting No.
BOD-04-15 of the NVCA Board of Directors be approved as
amended (Councillor Cam Ecclestone, Town of Collingwood was added to the
attendance as regrets)
Carried;
PRESENTATION:
Meeting Protocols for Closed Sessions
Jason Reynar, Deputy CAO/Town Solicitor, Town of Innisfil
3.
Mr. Reynar provided an overview of the protocols surrounding closed session
meetings. There is no explicit guidance provided in the Conservation Authorities Act,
rather Conservation Authorities can adopt their own regulations subject to the
approval of the Minister. The NVCA has adopted the same guidelines as outlined in
the Municipal Act.
Questions of clarification were addressed. Discussion regarding the phrase ‘InCamera’ concluded that it is more common practice to address these closed
meetings as ‘Closed Session’ items on the agenda.
Mr. Reynar outlined suggestions that the Board may wish to consider in relation to
closed session protocols.
Page 9
4.
MINUTES
a) Minutes of the Board of Directors Meeting BOD-03-15 dated 27 March,
2015.
RES:#2
RESOLVED THAT: the Minutes of the Board of Directors Meeting BOD-03-15 dated
27 March, 2015 be approved with the following amendment:
- that Councillor Cam Ecclestone, Town of Collingwood, be added to the list of
regrets on the agenda record of attendees.
Carried;
b) Minutes of the Planning and Engineering Advisory Committee
PEAC-01-15 dated March 27, 2015
RES:#3
RESOLVED THAT: the Minutes of the Planning and Engineering Advisory Committee
Meeting PEAC-01-15 dated 27 March, 2015 be approved.
Carried;
c) Minutes of the Land, Education and Stewardship Services Advisory
Committee LESAC-01-15
RES:#4
Moved by: Perry Ritchie
Seconded by: Bill French
RESOLVED THAT: the Minutes of the Land, Education and Stewardship Services
Advisory Committee Meeting LESAC-01-15 dated 15 April, 2015 be approved.
Carried;
5.
6.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF LAND, EDUCATION AND STEWARDSHIP
Rotary Club of Barrie & Tiffin Conservation Area
RES:#5
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 22-04-15-BOD be received; and
FURTHER THAT: The Rotary Club of Barrie be acknowledged for their financial
assistance to the Tiffin Centre for Conservation through the renaming of Tiffin’s
Group Campground to the Rotary Group Campground.
Carried;
ANNOUNCEMENTS
a) The Rotary Club of Barrie were acknowledged for their financial assistance to the
Tiffin Centre for Conservation through the renaming of Tiffin’s Group
Campground to the Rotary Group Campground. Ted Barnaby, President, Michael
LeCollier, Chair, Environmental Committee and Kevin Shanks, Incoming Chair,
Environmental Committee were in attendance for the announcement.
Page 10
b) Gayle Wood, Chief Administrative Officer provided a news release published by
Public Safety Canada entitled ‘Public Safety Canada, National Disaster Mitigation
Program NDMP’ information. The document was produced in recognition of
increasing disaster risks and costs as part of the government’s commitment to
build safer and more resilient communities.
c) Councillor Donna Jebb, member representing the Town of New of Tecumseth
announced the success of the NVCA Evening of Thanks. The event was very well
received. Councillor Jebb congratulated staff for a wonderful event and
encouraged the members to attend this event in the future.
7.
PRESENTATION
2014 Financial Statements
KPMG LLP Chartered Accountants, Derek D’Angelo, Partner
Mr. D’Angelo presented the 2014 Financial Statements to the Board of Directors and
advised that there were no concerns raised during the audit. There was no change in
the audit plan, no significant issues or unusual transactions and no issues with
management.
RES:#6
RESOLVED THAT: the Board receive the 2014 NVCA Financial Statements as
presented by KPMG LLP Chartered Accountants; and
FURTHER THAT: a copy be sent to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry,
Conservation Ontario and be placed on the NVCA website.
Carried;
8.
Permits/Approvals under the Conservation Authorities Act for the Period
March 12, 2015 to April 10, 2015.
RES:#7
Moved by: Bill French
Seconded by: Perry Ritche
RESOLVED THAT: the Permits and Approvals issued by staff for the period March
12, 2015 to April 10, 2015, be received by the Board of Directors.
Carried;
9.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICES
a) Status of NVCA’s Reserves (Staff Report No. 24-04-15-BOD)
RES:#8 Moved by: Bill French
RESOLVED THAT: the Board of Directors receive Staff Report No.24-04-15-BOD
regarding the status of NVCA’s Reserves for information.
Carried;
Page 11
b) Financial Activity Report Summary to March 31, 2015
Accounts Receivable Summary as at March 31, 2015
RES:#9
RESOLVED THAT: the Accounts Receivable as at March 31, 2015 in
the amount of $698,743.79 including Planning items of $302,863.00 be received;
and
FURTHER THAT: disbursements as at March 31, 2015, in the sum of
$428,028.36 including wages (net of withholdings) of $134,419.78 be received;
and
FURTHER THAT: the Unaudited Combined Statement of Operations Program
Summary as at March 31, 2015 be received.
Carried;
c) Communications/PR Report for March 17, 2015 to April 13, 2015
RES:#10 Moved by: Walter Benotto
Seconded by: Earl Hawkins
RESOLVED THAT: the Communications Staff Report No. 26-04-15-BOD for
March 17, 2015 to April 13, 2015 be received by the Board of Directors.
Carried;
Action Item: Councillor Jebb requested staff to bring back an information paper
regarding log jams and the NVCA’s roll.
8.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNICAL SERVICES
Memorandum of Understanding Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority
and the South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe Source Protection Committee
RES:#11
Moved by: Earl Hawkins
Seconded by: Walter Benotto
RESOLVED THAT: the Memorandum of Understanding between NVCA and the Lake
Simcoe Region Conservation Authority concerning Technical and Administrative
Support to the Source Water Protection Planning Initiative dated April 11, 2015 be
approved; and
FURTHER THAT: NVCA Chair and Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to enter
into agreement with the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority for the
Memorandum of Understanding dated April 11, 2015.
Carried;
Page 12
9.
Amendments to Ontario Regulation 172/06
(Staff Report 28-04-15-BOD)
RES:#12
Moved by: Brian Smith
Seconded by: Connie Leishman
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 28-04-15-BOD regarding Amendments to
Ontario Regulation 172/06 be received; and
FURTHER THAT: the following staff positions be delegated the authority to approve
permissions consistent with Board approved policies and guidelines, for a maximum
period of 24 months (2 years), under Ontario Regulation 172/06;
a)
Chief Administrative Officer
b)
Director, Planning Services
c)
Manager, Planning
d)
Manager, Regulations and Enforcement
Carried;
The meeting was suspended at 11:05 a.m. to meet as the Nottawasaga Valley Source
Protection Authority.
RES:#13
Moved by: Rob Nicol
Seconded by: Ron Orr
RESOLVED THAT: this BOD-04-15 meeting be suspended at 11:05 a.m. to meet after
the Source Protection Authority meeting on April 24, 2015
Carried;
The meeting reconvened as the NVCA Board of Directors at 12:30 p.m.
10. IN-CAMERA
Councillor Keith White and Councillor Michael Smith, Township of Essa were not
present at the in-camera session for the Township of Essa Statement of Claim
agenda item.
RES:#14
Moved by: Connie Leishman
Seconded by: Ron Orr
RESOLVED THAT: this meeting of the Board of Directors No. BOD-04-15 move Incamera at 12:30 p.m. to address matters pertaining to:
Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals,
affecting the Authority.
• Sunnidale Estates Ltd., Fresun Estates Ltd. and 1281533 Ontario Ltd. Draft
Approved Subdivision, Wasaga Beach
• Township of Essa Statement of Claim; and
Page 13
FURTHER THAT: the following staff be in attendance: D. Gayle Wood, Chief
Administrative Officer, Chris Hibberd, Director, Planning Services, Glenn Switzer,
Director, Engineering and Technical Services, Sheryl Flannagan, Director, Corporate
Services and Laurie Barron, Coordinator, CAO and Corporate Services.
Carried;
RESOLVED THAT: the Board rise from In-Camera session at 12:59 p.m. and report
progress.
Carried;
RES:#16
Moved by: Rob Nicol
Seconded by: Donna Jebb
RESOLVED THAT: Due to the natural hazard issues affecting NVCA’s mandated
interests, staff provide technical support to the Town of Wasaga Beach at the Ontario
Municipal Board; and
FURTHER THAT: If deemed necessary by staff and legal counsel the NVCA seek
party status at the Ontario Municipal Board hearing and engage a consultant to
assist in the technical review subject to the CAO and Chair’s approval.
Carried;
11. CORRESPONDENCE
a) Letter from Maurice Cody Child Care Centre to the NVCA Board of Directors dated
Mar 24/15 re: donation from the children to assist with the restoration of the
Tiffin Centre as a result of the tornado damage.
b) Conservation Ontario E-Bulletin dated March 2015.
RES:#17
Moved by: Fred Nix
Seconded by: Barb Coutanche
ESOLVED THAT: the correspondence in agenda BOD-04-15 be received.
Carried;
NOTICE OF MOTION
Councilor Deb Doherty, Town of Collingwood advised that a Notice of Motion regarding
NVCA Board of Directors Oath of Office will be presented at the May 22, 2015 meeting of
the Board of Directors
Page 14
ADJOURN
RES:#18
Seconded by: Arif Khan
RESOLVED THAT: this BOD-04-15 meeting adjourn at 1:03 p.m. to meet again at the
call of the chair.
Carried;
_______________________
_____________________
Chair Doug Lougheed
D. Gayle Wood
Approved this ___ day of __________, 2015
Page 15
NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY SOURCE PROTECTION AUTHORITY (NVSPA)
MINUTES
NVSPA-01-15
Friday, April 24, 2015
Location:John L. Jose Learning Centre, Tiffin Conservation Area, Utopia, On
NVCA Officers Present:
Chair, Councillor Doug Lougheed
Deputy Mayor Gail Ardiel, Vice Chair
Deputy Mayor Nina Bifolchi, Past Chair
NVCA Board Members Present:
Councillor Bob Meadows
Councillor Gail Little
Councillor Arif Khan
Councillor Sergio Morales
Councillor Ron Orr
Councillor Deb Doherty
Councillor Cam Ecclestone
Councillor Connie Leishman
Councillor Michael Smith
Councillor Keith White,
Councillor Rob Nicol
Councillor Fred Nix
Councillor Earl Hawkins
Councillor Donna Jebb
Mayor Rick Milne
Councillor Phil Hall
Councillor Barbara Coutanche
Councillor Walter Benotto
Mayor Bill French
Councillor Perry Ritchie
Mayor Brian Smith
Regrets:
Councillor Terry Mokriy
Mayor Chris Vanderkruys
Mayor Darren White
Innisfil (Town)
Blue Mountains (Town)
Wasaga Beach (Town) left the meeting at 11:40 a.m.
Adjala-Tosorontio (Township)
Amaranth (Township)
Barrie (City)
Barrie (City)
Bradford West Gwillimbury (Town)
Collingwood (Town)
Collingwood (Town)
Essa (Township)
Essa (Township)
Innisfil (Town)
Mono (Town)
Mulmur (Township)
Shelburne (Town)
Springwater (Township)
Springwater (Township)
Wasaga Beach (Town)
Grey Highlands (Municipality)
Melancthon (Township)
Guests: Lynn Dollin, Chair South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe SPC, Dr. Ben Longstaff,
Manager, Integrated Watershed Management LSRCA, Kate Howson, Subwatershed Protection
Planner, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
NVCA Staff Present: D. Gayle Wood, Chief Administrative Officer, Chris Hibberd, Director,
Planning Services, Sheryl Flannagan, Director, Corporate Services, Glenn Switzer, Director,
Engineering & IT, Tom Reeve, Senior Manager, Engineering Services, Ryan Post, Hydrogeologist/
Page 16
Source Protection Coordinator, Laurie Barron, Coordinator, CAO and Corporate Services
Page 15
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Lougheed called the meeting to order at 11:20 a.m
1.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
RES#1: Moved by: Fred Nix
Seconded by: Rob Nicol
RESOLVED THAT: the agenda for the April 24, 2015 meeting No. NVSPA-0115 of the Nottawasaga Valley Source Protection Authority be adopted.
Carried;
2.
PECUNIARY INTEREST DECLARATION
None declared.
3.
MINUTES
Minutes of the Nottawasaga Valley Source Protection Authority
Meeting 01/14 dated June 27, 2014
RES#2: Moved by: Walter Benotto
Seconded by: Fred Nix
RESOLVED THAT: The Minutes of the Nottawasaga Valley Source Protection
Authority Meeting 01/14 dated June 27/14 be approved.
Carried;
4.
REPORT OF THE SOUTH GEORGIAN BAY LAKE SIMCOE SOURCE
PROTECTION COMMITTEE
Chair Lynn Dollin provided an update on the Plan Approval, the council
Workshops and Preparing for implementation of the plan.
The SPC has established an annual reporting working group to establish a
reporting framework to monitor the Source Water Protection Plans
effectiveness.
Source Protection Authorities, in collaboration with municipalities, are
responsible for implementing the Source Protection Plan education and
outreach strategy.
Collaboration agreements have been signed by all the local municipalities the
have received implementation funding and efforts are well under way to utilize
the funds for the establishment of risk management processes required to be
in place for July 1, 2015.
The next few months will be a busy time as the SPC prepares for the effective
date of July 1, 2015 and assists municipalities with their final preparations in
the months leading up to the Source Protection Plan effective date.
Page 17
5.
6.
PRESENTATION: GENERAL UPDATES
a)
SWP Background and SPA Roles and Responsibilities
Ryan Post, NVCA Hydrogeologist/Source Protection Coordinator presented
an overview of the history of the Source Protection Plan.
b)
2015 SWP Activities
Ben Longstaff, LSRCA General Manager, Integrated Watershed
Management outlined the implementation preparation planned for the
final approved Source Protection Plan.
ITEMS REQUIRING SEPARATE DISCUSSION
Katie Howson, Subwatershed Protection Planner, LSRCA
a) Amendment to Assessment Report – Shelburne Well
(Staff Report No. 01-01-15-NVSPA)
RES#3: Moved by: Walter Benotto
Seconded by: Arif Khan
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 01-01-15-NVSPA be received; and
FURTHER THAT:
the Nottawasaga Valley Source Protection Authority
(NVSPA) endorses the updated Shelburne Chapter of the Nottawasaga Valley
Assessment Report for public consultation; and
FURTHER THAT: staff be directed to complete all necessary actions to fulfil
the consultation requirements, and if the intent of the update does not change
as a result of the public consultation, that the updated Assessment Report be
submitted to the Province for approval.
Carried;
a) Amendment to SPP land use planning policy (LUP-3)
RES:#4
Moved by: Ron Orr
FURTHER THAT: the Nottawasaga Valley Source Protection Authority
(NVSPA) endorses the proposed amendment to the Source Protection Plan
(SPP), that all necessary consultation required for this change be undertaken,
and if the intent of the amendment does not change as a result of the public
consultation, that the amended SPP be resubmitted to the Province for
approval.
Carried;
Page 18
b) Salt Issues Contributing Area Septic Inspection Requirement
RES:#5 Moved by: Donna Jebb
Seconded by: Sergio Morales
FURTHER THAT: the Nottawasaga Valley Source Protection Authority (NVSPA)
endorses Staff Report No. 03-01-15-NVSPA regarding the proposed
amendment to the Assessment Report; and
FURTHER THAT: the staff submit a letter to the Province under technical rule
15.1 requesting septic systems not be considered a significant threat within
the Issues Contributing Area, and that upon approval from the Province the
City of Barrie Assessment Report chapter be amended and resubmitted to the
Province for approval.
Carried;
7. REPORT OF THE HYDROGEOLOGIST/SOURCE PROTECTION
COORDINATOR
a) Risk Management Officer, Part IV delegation update
(Staff Report No. 04-01-15-NSPA)
RES:#6
Seconded:Walter Benotto
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 04-01-15-NVSPA regarding “Risk
Management Official- Municipality Update” be received.
Carried;
b) SWP Risk Management Offical’s Annual Reports for the:
Township of Clearview, Town of Collingwood, City of Barrie, Town of New
Tecumseth, Town of Shelburne, Town of Wasaga Beach, Township of Mulmur,
Township of Essa, Town of Mono and the Region of Peel.
RES:#7
Moved by: Walter Benotto
Seconded: Cam Ecclestone
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 05-01-15-NVSPA regarding the Risk
Management Official Annual Reports for 2014 be received.
Carried;
8. CORRESPONDENCE
a) Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change Memorandum to the
Source Protection Authority General Managers dated Mar. 12/15 re:
Designation of Risk Management Inspectors appointed by Source
Protection Authorities and Provincial Offences Officers.
b) Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change to SPC dated
Jan 19/15 re: updated Assessment Reports approved.
Page 19
c) Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change Memorandum to the
Source Protection Authority General Managers dated Mar. 12/15 re:
Designation of Risk Management Inspectors appointed by Source
Protection Authorities and Provincial Offences Officers.
RES:#8
Moved by: Walter Benotto
Seconded by: Brian Smith
RESOLVED THAT: the correspondence in agenda NVSPA-01-15 be received.
Carried;
Adjourn
RES:#9
Moved by: Arif Khan
RESOLVED THAT: this meeting of the NVSPA-01-15 adjourn at 12:27 p.m. to
meet again at the call of the chair.
__________________________
Chair, Doug Lougheed
__________________________
D. Gayle Wood
Approved this ____ day of __________, 2015
Page 20
HISTORY OF CONSERVATION
AUTHORITIES/NVCA FUNDING
MAY, 2015
Page 21
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(1) BACKGROUND/LEGISTLATION
(2) HISTORY OF CONSERVATION AUTHORITIES/CA FUNDING
(a) Flood Control Structures, 1954
(b) Land Acquisition, 1955
(c) Conservation Reports, 1960”s
(d) Water Supply Reservoirs, 1963
(e) Niagara Escarpment Land Acquisition, 1967
(f) Schedule of Grants, 1970”s
(g) Education Programs, 1970”s
(h) Flood Damage Reduction Program, 1978
(i) Supplementary Grants, 1990’s
(j) Provincial Transfer Payments, 1992 to 2001
(k) Additional Provincial Funds, 2012/13
(l) NVCA Year End Financial Position, 2014
(m) NVCA 2015 Approved Budget
(3) SUMMARY
CHARTS:
Chart 1: 1946 CA Act Revenues
Chart 2: 1968 NVCA Revenues
Chart 5: 1986 Water and related Land Management Revenues
TABLES:
Table 1: Provincial Transfer Payments to NVCA – 1992 to 2001
Page 22
(1) BACKGROUND/LEGISLATION:
In Canada, the responsibility for water management is shared by the federal, provincial and municipal
governments. Water jurisdiction began to be framed under The British North America Act(s) (BNA)
1867 -1975. All BNA Acts dated before 1949 were passed by the British Parliament, while some of those
dated after 1949 were passed by the Canadian Parliament. When Canada patriated its constitution with
the passage of the Canada Act – 1982 the existing BNA Acts were repealed or modernized and retitled
as Constitution Acts.
“When it comes to water governance in Canada, the federal government has jurisdiction related to
fisheries, navigation, federal lands… and management of boundary waters. Canadian provinces have
primary jurisdiction over most areas of water management and protection. Most of those governments
delegate certain authorities to municipalities [particularly drinking and waste water treatment]…and
may also delegate some water resource management functions to local authorities that may be
responsible for a particular area or river basin”1
In Ontario, the province has uniquely delegated some water and conservation land responsibilities
through the passage of The Conservation Authorities Act – 1946. This provincial legislation enabled
municipalities to recommend the creation of a conservation authority to:
“undertake in an area over which it has jurisdiction, a program designed to further the
conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources… (Section 20).”
Conservation Authorities are based on three fundamental principles, as important today as in 1946:
•
•
•
Watershed based jurisdictions
Local decision making, and
Funding partnerships.
(2) HISTORY OF CONSERVATION AUTHORITIES/NVCA FUNDING:
Given the shared responsibility for water resources in Canada (prior to the creation of Conservation
Authorities in 1946), the province ESTABLISHED a Conservation Branch which commenced with
$100,000 of provincial funding in 1944. “In 1961, the budget of the Branch alone was about $2.25
million and by 1970 it had risen to $16.143 million, most of which was in the form of grants to the [then]
thirty-eight conservation authorities.”2
1
2
Government of Canada, , Federal Policy and Legislation and Shared Responsibility, Environment Canada Bulletins
Modified 2014-04-16 and 2010-09-03
A.H. Richardson, Conservation By The People – The History of the Conservation Movement in Ontario, University of
Toronto Press , 1974
Page 23
The traditional funding scenario upon which the Conservation Authorities Act – 1946 was premised,
was based on a 50/50 cost share model – with the province contributing to 50% of a conservation
authorities budget and the matching 50% from member municipalities (pro-rated according to the
current value assessment of the municipalities within the watershed).
Based on this, by the time the NVCA was created in 1960, the traditional provincial/conservation
authority funding model looked like that outlined in the 1946 Revenue Pie Chart below. This is markedly
different from the 2014 NVCA Revenues which are outlined in the chart on page 9, in accordance with
the Audited Financial Statement for the year ended December 2014.
CHART 1:
1946 CA Act Revenues
Municipal
Levies
50%
Provincial
Grants
50%
The following will outline additional funding scenarios for special programs which were developed
throughout the years after the creation of the Act:
(a) In the aftermath of Hurricane Hazel, 1954, the implementation of flood control structures was
undertaken by several conservation authorities. Dam costs were considered too great for
municipalities to finance on their own; consequently the governments of the day agreed to the
following cost share model:
Government of Canada
37.5 percent
Province of Ontario
37.5 percent
Municipalities (pro-rated)
25.0 percent.
This funding model was used for years for sharing the cost of large flood control schemes.
Page 24
(b) Around 1955, an Order-in-Council made provision for the purchase of land on which buildings
had been destroyed due to flooding. “Generally, the province paid the full cost of property
acquisition [for flood plain lands] in the municipalities outside of Metro…” (Conservation By The
People, page 36).
(c) In the early 1960’s the release of Conservation Reports by the province for the conservation
authorities was a special occasion. “It began with a dinner for the authority, then came a public
meeting, to which 150 or more interested citizens were invited by printed invitation, and at
which the Minister presented the report, a copy of which was given to each member of the
authority. Later, if funds were available, an attractive bulletin was published summarizing the
report and about 3,000 copies were distributed to the watershed” (Conservation By The People,
page 118). The Conservation Reports, Bulletins and events were paid for by the province.
(d) In 1963, Ontario experienced an extreme drought. “As a result it was recommended that the
government’s assistance to conservation authorities for the construction of water supply
reservoirs be increased from the existing 50 percent. The new policy made provincial assistance
available to authorities in the form of a grant of as much as 100 percent of the cost of a dam
and reservoir including land acquisition. Twenty-five percent of the grant was to be repaid
within thirteen years after the initiation of the project. The first three years of the repayment
period were interest free.” (Conservation By The People, page 46). The following small water
supply reservoirs within the NVCA watershed, which were constructed during this period of
time, included:
• New Lowell
• Utopia
• Tottenham.
(e) In March 1967, in response to public concerns in relation to the Niagara Escarpment, the
province initiated a study which resulted in the prevision of a subsidy to conservation
authorities of 75 percent to acquire escarpment lands. This resulted in the purchase of
Nottawasaga Bluffs.
Page 25
CHART 2:
1968 NVCA Revenues
Other
3%
Municipal
Levies
29%
Provincial
Grants
68%
(f) According to the book entitled Conservation By The People (page 140 and 141) the following
Schedule of Grants were available to conservation authorities in 1970:
Program
Provincial Grant
Authority
Administration
(salaries, expenses, office,
communication/education materials, etc.)
50%
50%
Engineering Studies/Surveys
75%
25%
Dams and Reservoirs (Flood Control)
50%
50%
Dams and Reservoirs (Water Supply)
75%
25%
River Bank Erosion
50%
50%
Dam Maintenance
75%
25%
Flood Plain mapping
(pre federal Flood Damage Reduction Program)
75%
25%
Acquisition of Flood Plain Land
50%
50%
Acquisition of Conservation Land
50%
50%
Acquisition of Niagara Escarpment Land
75%
25%
Page 26
(g) In the 1970’s many conservation authorities built structures for their resource education
programs. Education programs were eligible for provincial grants of 50 percent until 1990.
CHART 3:
1970 NVCA Revenues
Other
7%
Municipal
Levies
32%
Provincial
Grants
61%
(h) In 1978, Ontario joined the federal Flood Damage Reduction Program which built upon the
mapping by the province and conservation authorities in the 1950`s as a result of Hurricane
Hazel. This program provided a unique funding formula for mapping:
Government of Canada
Province of Ontario
Municipal/Conservation Authorities
50 percent
40 percent
10 percent
Under this program, the following watercourses were mapped in the NVCA watershed:
•
•
•
•
•
Nottawasaga River
Silver Creek
Willow Creek
Spring Creek
Mad River
Page 27
CHART 4:
1978 NVCA Revenues
Other
23%
Municipal
Levies
34%
Provincial
Grants
43%
CHART 5:
1986 Water & Related Land
Management Department Revenue
User Fees
3%
F.D.R.P.
18%
Municipal Other
14%
Provincial
Grants
52%
Municipal
Levies
13%
(i) Until the early 1990’s, some CA’s were eligible for supplementary grants based on watershed
populations and assessment. Water and related land management programs received a 55
percent provincial grant, and conservation and recreation programs (land securement and
management) received a 50 present provincial grant. Supplementary grants up to 30 percent
above those grant rates were provided for water management programs such that a CA could
enjoy as much as an 85 percent total grant on water programs such as flood
warning/forecasting, flood/erosion control infrastructure/maintenance, and plan input/review.
For conservation and recreation, supplementary grants up to 25% were provided.
CHART 6:
Page 28
1990 NVCA Revenues
Federal
0%
Other
10%
Municipal
Levies
35%
Provincial
Grants
55%
(j) “In 1992, the province provided what is probably their highest level of annual [Transfer
Payments] TP’s to CA’s at $52.8 M. This included capital as well as operating grants. There was
a gradual year over year decline approaching the major cuts made by the…government starting
in 1996 and 1997, which brought us to about $8M, and eventually to the $7.6M in 2001, which
has remained static to present” (Email Communication, Rob Messervey, Chief Administrative
Officer, Kawartha Region Conservation Authority, April 7, 2015). The impact of the provincial
transfer payment cuts on the NVCA are as follows:
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
620,673 655,290 520,603 1,113,585 593,927 204,184 209,905 195,796 188,291 188,490
Note: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000 are final allocation numbers
1996 preliminary summary numbers, February 21, 1996
2001 draft allocation, preliminary notification to CA’s dated February 2, 2001
Page 29
CHART 7:
1993 NVCA Revenues
Federal
2%
Other
30%
Provincial
Grants
41%
Municipal
Levies
27%
(k) Until 2012/13, the province had a small amount funding, around $166,000, “to offset
unexpected costs for CA’s like excessive court costs, emergency flood prevention projects, etc.”
(Email communication, Dan Marinigh, Chief Administrative Officer, Otonabee Region
Conservation Authority, April 6, 2015).
(l) By 2014, NVCA had developed a funding model which relied on only 7% of its funding from the
province and 50% of its funding from municipalities. The significant difference from the 1946
model was User Fees of 25% which were introduced by NVCA in the mid 1990’s.
CHART 8:
2014 NVCA Revenues
Reserve Use
7%
Contributions
5%
User Fees
23%
:
Municipal Other
8%
Provincial
Grants
7%
Municipal
Levies
42%
Federal
8%
Page 30
(m) In 2015, NVCA budgeted the following amount for provincial funding (7%), out of a total budget
of $4.8 million:
Program
Amount
Status
Healthy Waters Program
(Canada/Ontario Great Lakes Agreement)
$ 20,000
Pending
Conservation Lands
(Summer Employment Program)
$ 2,989
Approved
Flood Forecasting/Warning
(Provincial Transfer Payment)
$188,490
Pending
Flood Data Base
$ 19,000
Pending
Source Water Protection (March 2015/16)
$121,980
Approved
Land Stewardship/Habitat Restoration program
$ 20,000
Approved
$ 14,019
Approved
$ 5,000
Pending
(Provincial Grant)
(Provincial Grant - unbudgeted)
Great Lakes Guardian Fund
(Provincial Grant MOECC)
Community Action Framework
Total
$391,478
(3) SUMMARY:
From this report, the following observations can be made:
•
There has been a substantial reduction in provincial funding contributions to
conservation authority budgets over the years.
•
The province has eliminated funding for several program areas, including
education, land securement, lands maintenance, stewardship and
administration.
Page 31
•
The reduction in provincial funding has resulted in the NVCA initiating a fee
system for development planning applications and Section 28 permit reviews;
causing significant negative response from clients.
•
Inconsistent funding has made it very difficult to budget, year over year.
In 2012, Conservation Ontario developed a Whitepaper – Watershed Management Futures for
Ontario. The Whitepaper outlines how conservation authorities can assist the province in
meeting their mandate as well as overviews funding transfer for this work. Conservation
Ontario continues to strongly advocate for the Whitepaper with Provincial government
agencies.
Additionally, the recently announced federal National Disaster Mitigation Program holds
promise for investment in flood mitigation project costs of up to 50 percent for eligible
provincial projects.
It is clear that NVCA needs to be an integral part of Conservation Ontario’s advocacy program
for re-investment in conservation authorities. Further, it is anticipated that the new federal
National Disaster Mitigation funding will result in updating NVCA Flood Plain Mapping
completed in the 1970’s and 1980’s. As well, new and innovative approaches at the local level
need to be investigated in relation to future funding to support NVCA programs.
Page 32
STAFF REPORT No. 29-05-15-BOD
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-05-15
TO:
Chair and Members of the Board of Directors
FROM:
Byron Wesson, Director
Land, Education & Stewardship Services
SUBJECT:
NVCA Vehicle purchase
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT: The Board receive Staff Report No. 29-05-15-BOD
regarding NVCA Vehicle purchase; and
FUTHER THAT: t he Board approve staff’s recommendation to
purchase a 2015 Toyota Tundra Pickup Truck from Jacksons Toyota
at a cost not to exceed $30,973.05 including a trade in allowance for
a 2004 Dodge Pickup truck and HST and that the Capital Repair and
Replacement Reserve be used to finance purchase as per the
approved 2015 budget.
Purpose of the Staff Report:
The purpose of this report is to request the Board’s approval to purchase a
new vehicle for the NVCA fleet through use of the Capitol Repair and
Replacement Reserve.
Page 33
Background:
The NVCA Fleet realizes continuous usage throughout each year. There are
currently 6 trucks (various ages and models) and 5 cars (all Toyota Matrix).
All vehicles are maintained to ensure they are safe and reliable for staff. A
recent study of Conservation Authorities has identified most partner
organizations strive to replace vehicles within 5-10 years or by 200,000 km.
About ½ of NVCA’s fleet (5 vehicles) is at or above these criteria for
replacement. Staff are recommending that our oldest vehicle (2004 Dodge
Ram Pick Up Truck) be traded in as part of the new vehicle purchase.
Issues/Analysis:
For reasons of vehicle quality and fuel efficiencies staff issued “Requests for
Vehicle Quotes (RFVQ)” for a 2015 Toyota Tundra to four Toyota Dealerships
within our watershed. The following table highlights submitted quotes
including a trade in allowance for our 2004 Dodge Ram :
Dealer
Jacksons Toyota
Location
Barrie
Truck Type
Toyota SR Long box
Cost incl. HST
$30,973.05
Collingwood
Toyota
Hallmark Toyota
Collingwood
Toyota SR Long box
$31,206.31
Orangeville
Toyota SR Long box
$31,555.68
Relevance to Authority Policy/Mandate:
NVCA Fleet program is designed to adequately address the needs of all
programs in a safe and cost effective manner.
Page 34
Impact on Authority Finances:
As approved in the 2015 budget vehicle costs would be financed through the
NVCA Capitol Repair and Replacement Reserve.
Submitted by:
Approved for submission by:
Original Signed by
_________________________
Byron Wesson, Director,
Land, Education & Stewardship
Services
Original Signed by
_______________________
D. Gayle Wood
Page 35
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-05-15
TO:
FROM:
Byron Wesson, Director
Land, Education and Stewardship Services
SUBJECT:
NVCA Conservation Land Use Leases and Protocols
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 30-05-15-BOD be received and the
protocol regarding the consideration of future NVCA property leases
be approved.
______________________________________________________
The purpose of this Staff Report is to overview current lease arrangements
regarding NVCA lands and determine the protocol for considering future
property leases.
Background:
The NVCA owns and manages approximately 12,800 acres of land within our
jurisdictional boundary. A majority of these properties (12,300 acres) make
up our 12 conservation areas which are maintained for their natural values
and promoted for low impact public use. T he 500 acre balance consists of
properties that are managed for their environmental significance but not
promoted for public use. A map of our 12 conservation areas is appended to
this Staff Report.
Page 36
Since the early 1990’s NVCA has entered into several ongoing lease
arrangements with municipalities and private landowners/volunteer groups.
Through provincial legislation conservation authorities are permitted to enter
into short term leases for a maximum of 5 years. Leases up to 20 years in
duration require approval from the Minister of Natural Resources and
Forestry. The following outlines all current NVCA leases:
Tottenham Conservation Area:
A long term lease (1994 to 2025) has been approved with the Town of New
Tecumseth who utilizes this site for camping and open park land. A fee is
charged to the public by the Town who retains the fees for operation and
maintenance of the site.
Riverdale Park:
A long term lease (20 years - 2013 - 2033) has been approved with the
Town of New Tecumseth for recreational use of this area. No fee is charged
to public.
Edenvale Conservation Area:
A long term lease (20 years - 2003 to 2023) has been approved with the
Township of Springwater for this site whom manages the area as open park
land. No fee is charged to the public.
Utopia Conservation Area:
Utopia CA is a 100 acre parcel with a natural divide in the middle by a
railroad.
A short term lease (5 years - 2012 - 2017) on the western portion of the
property of 50 acres was negotiated with the Friends of Utopia Grist Mill and
Park in 2012. No fee is charged to the public. The Friends of Utopia raise
funds for the restoration of the Grist Mill. The lease is reviewed every 5
years.
Further, on the eastern 50 acres of the property, a short term lease (5 years
2015 - 2020) was negotiated with a local farmer to access water for
irrigation. The lease is $4,000.00 annually with a 3% increase per year.
Page 37
Petun Conservation Area:
Petun Conservation Area is a 100 acre parcel located on the Niagara
Escarpment. A short term lease (5 years - 2012 - 2016) was negotiated with
the Georgian Triangle Anglers Association (GTAA) for 10 acres of land and a
small cottage. The GTAA operates a fish hatchery on this property and
introduces native species to various waterways within our watershed.
New Lowell Conservation Area:
New Lowell CA is a 140 acre parcel. A short term lease (2013 - 2018) has
been approved with the Ivits family. Originally, this area was operated by
NVCA as a campground. Through a policy change in 1990, NVCA decided to
discontinue the operation of campgrounds. A tender to operate this area
was issued. The Ivits family was successful in the tender and operates this
area as a seasonal campground. NVCA received an annual lease fee of
$17,000 in 2015. The lease is increased annually by 3%. The Ivits family
charge a fee to the public and the fee assists with the operation and
management of the property.
McBride Property:
The property is historically agricultural within Minesing Wetlands. A short
term lease (1 year 2015) is renewed annually for 22 acres @
$27.00/acre/year ($600 per year). This lease has been in place for around
15 years. Due to the property being considered marginal farmland, NVCA
plans to plant the area with trees in 2016.
Mayers Marsh:
This area was donated (114 acres) to NVCA in 1994 by the Mayer family
with the proviso that we allow for an agricultural lease with a family member
of 9 acres. This short term lease (2012 – 2017) lease is reviewed every 5
years. The current lease rate is 50.00/acre /year.
Beeton Creek:
This 76 acre property and house was donated in 2008 to NVCA. A short
term lease (3 years (2014 – 2017) of the house along with 5 acres of land is
currently in place with a volunteer group ($257.00 month with a 3% annual
increase).
Page 38
In addition NVCA has entered into a short term lease (5 years - 2015 2020) of 36 acres to a local farmer ($2,340.00 annual lease fee).
The remainder of the site is a wetland and floodplain and remains as open
space.
Issues/Analysis:
The current policy of NVCA is to operate and maintain those properties that
are not currently leased.
Based on the lease terms noted above, the following lease reviews will be
required during the term of the current Strategic Plan, 2014 to 2018:
• McBride Property - 2015
• Petun CA - 2016
• Utopia CA - 2017
• Mayers Marsh - 2017
• Beeton Creek – 2017
• New Lowell CA – 2018
In relation to future leases, a recent request from a private company to
lease one of our properties for exclusive use of their clients was received by
NVCA. Through way of an informal policy NVCA has traditionally allowed
land leasing options that assists in accomplishing the NVCA mandate or
provides for agricultural leases on portions of our properties that are not
environmentally significant. As a result, the request from the private
company was not granted.
Also, pertaining to the future, NVCA and Town of Collingwood staff have
recently discussed options for a small piece of waterfront property owned by
NVCA. It is believed that this property would present unique recreational
opportunities to the residents of Collingwood. Through future site meetings
it is hoped that the Town of Collingwood would consider entering into a land
lease agreement for this property.
Future lease proposals from municipalities, companies and the public will be
considered by the Board of Directors, through a Staff Report, on a site by
site basis.
Page 39
Section 21(c) of the Conservation Authorities Act gives Conservation
Authorities the power to sell, lease of otherwise dispose of land.
Current land lease arrangements account for approximately $26,500
annually to the NVCA budget. Three of our ten leases have a 3% annual
rent increase included as part of their agreement.
Submitted by:
Original Signed by
Original Signed by
________________________
Byron Wesson, Director,
Land, Education & Stewardship
Services
______________________
D. Gayle Wood
Attachment:
1. NVCA Conservation Areas Map
Page 40
Page 41
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO.
BOD-05-15
TO:
FROM:
Barb Perreault, CET, MLEO(C)
Manager, Regulations and Enforcement
SUBJECT:
Permits/Approvals under the Conservation Authorities
Act for the Period April 11, 2015 to May 5, 2015
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT the Permits and Approvals Staff Report No. 31-05-15BOD issued by staff for the period April 11, 2015 to May 5, 2015, be
received by the Board of Directors.
The purpose of this Staff Report is to provide the Board of Directors with an
outline of the permits/approvals issued under Section 28 of the Conservation
Authorities Act for their information.
Background:
As a result of the amended regulation to the individual Conservation Authorities
Act Section 28 ‘Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to
Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation’, NVCA staff have been delegated the
authority to approve permissions consistent with board approved policies and
guidelines.
At the December 14, 2012 meeting of the Board of Directors, staff were directed
to provide a monthly summary of permits/approvals for the information of the
Board.
Page 42
Issues/Analysis:
To ensure compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of
Privacy Act, the summary of permits/approvals, including permit refusals,
compiled by Barb Perreault, Manager, Regulations & Enforcement, is forwarded for
discussion in closed session if required.
During the period April 11, 2015 to May 5, 2015, a total of 27 permits/approvals
were issued. In regards to clearances, during the same period, a total of 14
clearances were issued.
Relevance to Authority Policy:
Permits issued under Regulation 172/06 are in compliance with Section 28 of the
Conservation Authorities Act.
Permit issuance and reporting is completed by staff and staff salaries are
approved within the Board’s annual budget deliberation.
Submitted by:
Original Signed by
________________________
Chris Hibberd, M.C.I.P., R.P.P.
Director, Planning Services
Original Signed by
_______________________
D. Gayle Wood
Closed Session Attachment:
Summary of Permits/Approvals and Clearances April 11, 2015 to May 5, 2015
Page 43
STAFF REPORT 32-05-15-BOD
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-05-15
TO:
FROM:
Christine Knapp, General Accountant
SUBJECT:
Financial Activity Report
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT: the Accounts Receivable as at April 30, 2015 in
the amount of $411,291.14 including Planning items of $293,688.00
be received; and
FURTHER THAT: disbursements as at April 30, 2015, in the sum of
$479,707.15 including wages (net of withholdings) of $164,841.42
be received; and
FURTHER THAT: the Unaudited Combined Statement of Operations Program
Summary as at April 30, 2015 be received.
The purpose of this Staff Report is to have the Board of Directors receive the
monthly financial statements.
Summary of Disbursements Month of April 2015
Page 44
Accounts Payable:
Batch 820
Batch 821
Batch 822
$
$
$
148,906.64
40,171.55
125,787.54
$ 314,865.73
$
$
80,147.05
84,694.37
$ 164,841.42
Wages (net of withholdings)
Period 8
Period 9
AR Refund
Batch 63
$
150.00
$ 479,857.15
DEFERRED PLANNING REVENUE, April 30, 2015
Deferred Plan of Subdivision
Deferred Plan of Site Plans
Deferred Aggregate
$
$
$
Paid
536,220.56
43,600.00
1,250.00
Not Paid
$ 159,992.50
$ 32,900.00
$
9,000.00
$
$
$
Total
696,213.06
76,500.00
10,250.00
Under the Conservation Authorities Act the NVCA is required to give monthly and
year end reports to the Board regarding financial position.
Staff time to prepare this report was addressed in the 2015 budget.
Reviewed by:
Original Signed by
Original Signed by
Sheryl Flannagan
D. Gayle Wood
Director, Corporate Services
1. Attachment 1 - Summary of Budgeted Program Activity
2. Attachment 2 - Statement of Operations
Page 45
NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
To: The Chair and Members of the Board of Directors
From: Christine Knapp, General Accountant
Date: May 22, 2015
No.: BOD-05-15
SUMMARY OF BUDGETED PROGRAM ACTIVITY, April 30, 2015 (unaudited)
APPROVED
OPERATIONS
Program
Cost
Capital Asset
Expense
BUDGET
Expense
Recovery
Purchases
Total Expense vs Budget
Program Levy
Other Program
Revenues
Use of
Reserves
Donated
Land
Total
Revenue
Total
Revenue
vs Budget
Surplus /
Deficit
LAND & WATER & STEWARDSHIP SERVICES
110
Reforestation
437,279.13
36,457.91
36,457.91
8.34%
30,569.79
6,920.00
37,489.79
8.57%
1,031.88
120
Healthy Waters
926,145.39
294,034.55
294,034.55
31.75%
71,890.34
257,151.20
329,041.54
35.53%
35,006.99
150
Conservation Lands
207,508.41
37,089.33
37,089.33
17.87%
42,680.36
8,691.85
51,372.21
24.76%
14,282.88
25.72%
103,029.69
0.00
PLANNING
310
Planning
0.00
1,217,753.10
210,186.38
210,186.38
17.26%
102,938.26
210,277.81
313,216.07
ENGINEERING & TECHNICAL SERVICES
400
Engineer & Technical Service
211,248.68
21,255.63
21,255.63
10.06%
52,812.17
420
Environmental Services
345,151.87
50,160.36
50,160.36
14.53%
79,787.96
18,699.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
52,812.17
25.00%
31,556.54
98,486.96
28.53%
48,326.60
0.00
402,761.48
430-442 Flood Control
93,932.18
93,932.18
23.32%
48,192.87
19,000.00
67,192.87
0.00
16.68%
0.00
460
260,000.36
Source Water Protection
99,522.85
99,522.85
38.28%
111,318.81
111,318.81
TIFFIN CENTRE
630
Tiffin Education
229,939.46
58,225.43
661
Tiffin CA - Infrastructure
388,453.70
49,951.75
18,825.60
58,225.43
25.32%
17,359.85
67,241.48
68,777.35
17.71%
72,163.41
45,233.97
-11,404.82
COST RECOVERY CENTRES
-26,739.31
0.00
42.81%
11,795.96
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
84,601.33
36.79%
26,375.90
105,992.56
30.22%
37,215.21
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
7,000.00
-61,633.12
410
GIS / IT Support
20,000.00
68,633.12
68,633.12
650
Workshop Vehicle & Equip
31,000.00
36,050.13
36,050.13
0.00
-36,050.13
660
Occupancy Costs
50,487.93
50,487.93
0.00
-50,487.93
670
Governance
103,752.45
103,752.45
0.00
-103,752.45
680
Corporate Admin Support
200,000.00
158,212.36
158,212.36
4,877,241.58
1,367,952.36
Total Operations
0.00
18,825.60
1,386,777.96
7,000.00
-7,843.12
7,843.12
11,219.62
28.43%
510,551.89
762,753.74
-3,561.70
90,200.00
101,419.62
5.61%
-56,792.74
90,200.00
1,359,943.93
27.88%
-26,834.03
Add back: Amortization of Assets
Donated Land
-90,200.00
Net Surplus (Deficit) to Distribute to Reserves
Budgeted
Capital
Expenditure
-117,034.03
Approved Draw
From Reserve*
Actual Use
of
Reserve
Actual
Capital
Expenditure
110 Reforestation
150 Conservation Lands
-9,190.72
-9,190.72
310 Planning Services
38,000.00
38,000.00
0.00
0.00
410 GIS / IT Support
650 Workshop Vehicle & Equip
20,000.00
20,000.00
31,000.00
31,000.00
661 Tiffin CA - Infrastructure
35,500.00
35,500.00
400 Engineer & Technical Service
-30,230.42
Ins. Payment, 2014 Storm
18,316.00
18,825.60
31,372.51
31,372.51
7,843.12
175,000.00
175,000.00
321,681.79
339,997.79
BOD 02/15, Res 18
670 Governance
680 Corporate Admin Support
-3,561.70
18,825.60
18,825.60
Assets purchased from Operations
Total Capital
18,825.60
*Approved Draw from Reserve--Budgeted and Board Approval
Page 46
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-05-15
TO:
FROM:
Sheryl Flannagan, Director, Corporate Services
______________________________________________________
SUBJECT:
2015 First Quarter Budget Report
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT: the NVCA Board receive for information the 2015
First Quarter budget Staff Report No. 33-05-15-BOD; and
FURTHER THAT: staff continue to monitor budget activities
______________________________________________________
The purpose of this Staff Report is to provide quarterly information to the
Board regarding the status of the budget activities.
Background:
On March 27, 2015 the Board approved the NVCA’s 2015 budget. Quarterly
reports are given to the Board to update on the status of the budget
activities and any variations expected.
Issues/Analysis:
The following are the highlights for the first three months operations of the
NVCA:
Page 47
•
•
•
Expenditures to date are on track, with 23.07% of the budgeted
expenses (25% of budget year completed).
Revenues are tracking well, with 22.54% of the budgeted revenues
recognized. This includes the first three months of the general
municipal levy of $510,551.89.
All program areas at this time are tracking revenues and expenditures
consistent with the approved budget.
The overall budget is forecast to balance or have a small surplus.
Individual Program Updates
Land, Operations and Stewardship Services:
Forestry 110
• Tree planting commenced on April 21, 2015. We will see more than
215,000 trees planted this spring. This will be our biggest year to date.
• Trees Ontario grants will be received by 3rd quarter of this year.
• Managed Forest Plans have started with 25% completion to date.
• Arbour Day is May 9, 2015
Conservation Lands – 150 and Tiffin CA – 661
• Conservation Lands and Hunting pass purchases are now underway.
New entrance fees through electronic payment will commence by the
long weekend in May.
• Maple Syrup production has been slow due to weather. We will realize
½ of last year’s crop. Sales of maple syrup have been brisk with a
complete sell out expected by mid-May.
• Weddings have officially started at Tiffin. Starting in June we are
booked every weekend until November end.
• Our regular camping groups are now here each weekend and booked
until late fall.
• Both programs are on track to balance for the end of 2015
Corporate Workshop-Vehicle and equipment - 650
• Vehicle maintenance costs are tracking a little higher than normal
which is due to the age of the fleet.
• Heating costs for workshop have been nearly expended. Existing fuels
are expected to carry us through to early 2016.
• Program is on track to realize a balanced budget for years end.
Page 48
Healthy Waters – 120
• The program target set for New Tecumseth’s Phosphorous Offset
Program was reached early meaning budgeted number for 2015 will be
lower than anticipated
• To address the potential revenue shortfall, staff have been busy
applying for additional grant funding; so far being successful in
obtaining $15,000 from the Township of Essa and $20,000 from the
Province of Ontario.
• A balanced 2015 budget is projected for the Healthy Waters program.
Tiffin Education – 630
• Our revenues from school groups are slightly increased over last year’s
1st quarter.
• Maple Syrup program was extended this year from four to six weeks
which worked well for a small shoulder season and realized strong
revenues.
• April to June is nearly booked solid with school groups and community
outreach
• Continued growth in this program is indicating a balanced year end.
Planning:
Planning – 310
• Planning user fee revenues as of March 31, 2015 are approximately
$102,938 (excluding levy) compared to $81,952 in March
2014. Based on the revenues received to date and should this pace
continue through the rest of the year, the planning revenues could be
slightly below budgeted revenue targets.
• Planning expenses including legal are tracking below budget, with
$7,783 expensed to date out of a $70,500 budget.
• Overall staff is anticipating meeting budget expectations as we are
starting our busiest part of the year for permit applications and we
have several subdivision projects that are continuing through the
planning process.
Technical Support Services/Engineering:
Engineering- 400
• Engineering budget is on target with 31% of the total budget used at
this time
• No other unbudgeted expenses have occurred
Page 49
GIS/Tech support - 410
• GIS/IT budget is on target to balance with 29% of the wage expense
used and other expenses at 7%
• There is additional revenue through programming project work
Environmental Services - 420
• Environmental Services Program is on target to balance. We have
additional revenue from the Hine’s Emerald project at $2,400
• There is an approximate $2,000 expense for logger repair/replacement
for maintenance
• We are tracking these new revenue and expense costs to ensure the
overall budget is balanced at year end.
Flood Program - 430-440
• Flood Program budget is on target to balancing with 11% of the
budget used to date
• We have not received the ice management invoice from the Town of
Collingwood yet that will be added to expenses.
Source Protection (SWP) - 460
• Source Water Protection is tracking on budget with 19% of the budget
used to date
• Negotiations are still ongoing with our municipalities and the total
revenue from delivery of the RMO program will not be known later in
the year
Corporate Services: Governance 670/Admin 680
Governance 670
• Expenses are tracking as per the approved budget
• Balanced budget expected
Corporate Admin 660 & 680
• The staff and administrative expenditures are tracking at anticipated
values after 1st quarter.
• Yearend forecast is anticipated to be balanced.
The NVCA works in partnership with its watershed municipalities to fulfill the
objective of protecting and restoring the Nottawasaga watershed. The Board
of Directors, comprised of representatives of the member municipalities,
Page 50
approves the budget. The budget is relevant to the Conservation Authorities
Act.
The 2015 Draft Budget totals $4,877,242 million in revenue as compared to
the 2014 approved budget of $4,610,198.
Reviewed by:
Original Signed by
Original Signed by
Sheryl Flannagan
D. Gayle Wood
Page 51
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-05-15
TO:
FROM:
Sheryl Flannagan, Director, Corporate Services
SUBJECT:
Employee Handbook Update
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT: the Board of Directors endorse the additions and
updates to the Employee Handbook as described in Staff Report No.
34-05-15-BOD dated May 22, 2015.
______________________________________________________
This purpose of this Staff Report is to keep the Employee Handbook current
and up to date.
Background:
The Board of Directors approved the NVCA Employee Handbook in November
2014. Since that time, it has been noted that there were a few updates
required. As well, there was a section that was missing that has been
added.
Issues/Analysis:
The following are the updates staff are recommending:
3.17 Inclement Weather
CHANGING THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPH FROM:
Page 52
The CAO/Secretary-Treasurer, or designate, in consultation with the Director
of Lands, Education & Stewardship Services and the Director, Corporate
Services will make the decision to close the office due to inclement weather.
Should this happen, staff will be paid for the day(s) the office is closed.
TO:
The CAO/Secretary-Treasurer, or designate, in consultation with the Director
of Lands, Education & Stewardship Services and the Director, Corporate
Services will make the decision to close the office due to inclement weather or
other emergency situation. Should this happen prior to 8:30am, staff will be
paid for the day(s) the office is closed. Should the decision occur part way
through the day, staff that are in the office or working in the field when the
office is closed will be paid for the remainder of the day. Staff who are absent
due to vacation, lieu, etc. will not have their credits reimbursed for that time.
REMOVING THIS PARAGRAPH AS IT IS CONTRADICTORY TO SECTION
4.1:
If the office is open, and an employee is absent due to weather conditions,
compensation for the day will be at the discretion of the supervisor with the
approval of the CAO/Secretary-Treasurer.
REPLACE WITH SECTION 4.1 STATEMENT:
If the Office is officially open and your individual circumstances make it
such that you are unable to attend work and carry out your normal duties,
vacation credits or overtime credits will be used to compensate for your
time absent from work. Should such credits be unavailable to cover this
absence, time off from work under these circumstances shall be without pay.
4.1 NVCA Paid Days Off
REMOVE BELOW AS DUPLICATE TO SECTION 3.17:
Cancelled Hours of Work due to Inclement Weather:
If the operations of NVCA are officially closed by the CAO/SecretaryTreasurer or their designate, employees will be paid a regular day’s pay or
part thereof.
Page 53
If the Office is officially open and your individual circumstances make it
such that you are unable to attend work and carry out your normal duties,
vacation credits or overtime credits will be used to compensate for your
time absent from work. Should such credits be unavailable to cover this
absence, time off from work under these circumstances shall be without pay.
4.7 Professional Development
TO ADD AT BOTTOM OF CURRENT POLICY:
As well, on submission of an approved training request form and work load
considerations, the NVCA will allow for up to two (2) days annually of
internal job shadowing with employees in different departments/programs to
gain further knowledge of the NVCA.
ADD MISSING SECTION:
4.11 Health & Dental Benefits
Group Insurance benefits are provided to employees of the NVCA through
Sun Life Financial.
Eligibility
To be eligible for group benefits, you must be a resident of Canada and meet
the following conditions:
Permanent Full-Time Employees:
•
You are a permanent employee;
•
You are actively working for your employer;
•
You are eligible for all benefits
All Other Employees:
Eligibility is determined as per Section 3.2 Contract Staff
Termination of Coverage
Termination occurs at the earlier of the employee's retirement or age 65.
Page 54
Life insurance
The NVCA shall pay 100% of the monthly premium of the basic term life
insurance plan, however it is a taxable benefit and the employee will
therefore be taxed on the amount of the premium.
Long Term Disability Benefit
The NVCA shall pay 100% of the monthly premium for the LTD.
If an employee is on LTD, the NVCA will continue to have coverage for the
Health Supplementary Plan and the Dental Plan for up to 2 years from the
disability date.
Income received through Long Term Disability payment is consider taxable.
At no time, however, would an individual be eligible for having the Health
and Dental Plan Coverage extend beyond age 65, if the individual were on
LTD.
Extended Health Care
The NVCA shall pay 100% of the monthly premium. Extended Health Care
includes vision along with drug and medical costs. Payments and coverage of
extended health care benefits are determined by the insurer.
Dental Care
The NVCA shall pay 100% of the monthly premium.
For further details on the above group insurance benefits, refer to the
members’ handbook as published by the insurer or visit their online
member’s self-service website at www.sunlife.ca.
Page 55
4.12 Pension Plans
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
Employees between the ages of 18 and 65 shall contribute to the Canada
Pension Plan in accordance with the provisions of the Canada Pension Plan
Act.
OMERS (Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement Savings Plan)
Eligibility
Any new permanent full-time employee hired will be required to join the plan
as a condition of employment. For all other employees, they are eligible to
join the plan upon completing a minimum of 700 hours of service per year
for a minimum of two years, calculated each December 31st, or who have
earned at least 35% of the year's maximum pensionable earnings as defined
in the Canada Pension Plan, for those two consecutive years.
Contributions
The employer and member each contribute the same percentage of the
member's contributory earnings. The contribution percentage is set by
OMERS on an annual basis.
Good employment policies are critical and essential for operating under the
Conservation Authorities Act.
Staff time to prepare this report was addressed in the 2015 budget.
Reviewed by:
Original Signed by
Original Signed by
Sheryl Flannagan
D. Gayle Wood
Page 56
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-05-15
TO:
FROM:
Heather Kepran, Communications Coordinator
SUBJECT:
Communications Report for April 14 to May 6, 2015
______________________________________________________
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT the Communications Staff Report No. 35-05-15 for April
14 to May 6, 2015, be received by the Board of Directors.
This report presents a summary of the media coverage received and public
outreach conducted by NVCA staff during the period of April 14 to May 6, 2015.
Background:
1. Communications referencing NVCA from Apr. 14 to May 6, 2015
Staff noted the following media directly mentioning the NVCA (attached where
applicable):
DISCLAIMER:
NVCA does not allege that the information provided in this report depicts accurate statements or
testimonies on behalf of any individual named therein, and is not responsible for any misinterpretation of
information or misquoted statement(s). This information is provided for information only.
Media coverage solicited by the NVCA
NVCA recognizes Conservation Champions at Evening of Thanks: Apr. 17
Title
Local brownie/guide troops,
Essa, among NVCA award
winners
Publication
New Tecumseth
Free Press Online
Date
Apr. 17
Reference
Doug Lougheed,
Chair
Page 57
Title
Nottawasaga Valley
Conservation Authority hands
out awards
NVCA Awards
2015 watershed “champions”
Publication
Alliston Herald
Date
Apr. 17
97.7 The Beach
Ontario Farmer
Apr. 19
Apr. 28
Board Meeting Highlights: Apr. 28
Title
Essa names NVCA in lawsuit
regarding Nottawasaga River
erosion
Unsolicited media coverage
Title
Publication
New Tecumseth
Free Press Online
Publication
Reference
Doug Lougheed,
Chair, Gayle Wood,
CAO
Doug Lougheed,
Chair, Gayle Wood,
CAO
Date
Apr 30
Reference
Heather Kepran,
Communications
Coordinator
Date
Reference
Simcoe County council defers
Beeton forest decision
New Tecumseth still working to
fill Trans Canada Trail gap
The Minesing Wetlands – Jewel
of the Nottawasaga River
Watershed
Essa reviewing Angus flood
planning policies
Alliston kids making friends,
learning skills with Scouts and
Girl Guides
Wetland projects already
having an impact in Barrie area
Alliston Herald
Apr. 14
NVCA
Alliston Herald
Apr. 15
NVCA
AWARE Simcoe
Apr. 17
NVCA, Minesing
Wetlands
Alliston Herald
Apr. 24
NVCA
Alliston Herald
Apr. 25
NVCA
Barrie Advance
Apr. 25
Waterworld: Paddling the
Minesing Wetlands
Preparing for Spring
Mountain Life
Magazine
Food Matters (blog
for the Simcoe
County Food and
Agriculture
Charter)
CTV Barrie
Apr. 27
Shannon Stephens,
Healthy Waters
Program coordinator
NVCA
New Tecumseth
Free Press Online
May 6
Canoeists rescued from
Minesing Wetlands
Big box store developer on
planning meeting agenda
tonight
Apr.
2015
Stephanie Durocher,
Water Resources
Engineer
May 1
Byron Wesson,
Director of Lands,
Education and
Stewardship Services
NVCA
Page 58
2. Other communications distributed to the public
Issued by NVCA
• Media Outreach in addition to above:
o Interview – Shannon Stephens to MyFM re: Shelburne Tree Planting
event, April 15
o Interview – Shannon Stephens to Shelburne Freelancer re: Shelburne
Community Tree Plant, May 2
o Interview – Shannon Stephens to Shelburne Free Press re: Shelburne
Community Tree Plant, May 2
• NVCA April Board Meeting Highlights: Apr. 28
• NVCA conservationUPDATE (e-newsletter): Apr. 8
• Earth Week - Call for Volunteers (to e-newsletter list): Apr. 20
3. NVCA Events
• Evening of Thanks – Conservation Champion Awards and Volunteer/Sponsor
Recognition, Apr. 16 – 100 in attendance
4. Presentations/Displays by NVCA staff
• Rotary Clubs of Barrie and Area, Earth Day Presentation, Byron Wesson,
Director of Lands, Education and Stewardship Services, Apr. 22
• L3 Writers’ Conference, Eco-Displays and Panel Discussion, Grant Wilson,
Environmental Educator, Barrie North High School, Apr. 23
• SCDSB Outdoor Education Workshop for Primary Teachers, Facilitator and
Themed Story Hike Workshop, Jessica Nurmsoo, Environmental Educator,
Apr. 25
• Mulmur Township Town Hall Meeting, unstaffed display, Apr. 25
5. NVCA Social Media Use
• To the end of Apr. 2015:
o Twitter followers: 783 (67% increase over Apr. 2014)
o Facebook “Likes”: 440 (80% increase over Apr. 2014)
6. NVCA Website Update
•
Website statistics for Q1 2015 (Jan – Mar)
o Number of visits: 18,179 (18%  over 2013)
o Number of unique visits: 10,854 (11%  over 2013)
o Top pages viewed: Events, Tiffin Centre, Maps (Interactive Mapping),
Careers & Volunteers, Venue Rentals
o Top referral site: Ontario conservation areas.ca
Issues/Analysis:
None.
Page 59
Communications and promotion is an integral part of the work of NVCA. Reference
to both can be found in the 2014-2018 Strategic Plan.
Staff time to prepare this report is addressed in the 2015 budget.
Reviewed by:
Original Signed by
Original Signed by
Sheryl Flannagan
D. Gayle Wood
1.
Attachment 1 – Media Clippings for the period.
Page 60
Local brownie/guide troops, Essa, among NVCA
award winners
Posted April 17, 2015
New Tecumseth Free Press Online
Volunteers and community supporters were
recognized last night as part of the Nottawasaga
Valley Conservation Authority's Evening of
Thanks.
Among them, the 1st Alliston, 3rd Beeton, and 1st
Tottenham Girl Guides troops and the 4th Alliston
Brownie troop. They were named The Young
Conservation Champion, for their volunteer work
over five years with the South Simcoe Streams
Network "Trees for Streams," and last year planted
more than 900 trees and shrubs along Beeton and
Spring Creeks.
The Evening of Thanks was held as part of National
Volunteer Week, which celebrates the contributions
of individuals, organizations and businesses that
provide their time and talent to protect and enhance
the environment of the Nottawasaga Valley
watershed.
The Township of Essa and the Essa Healthy
Community Committee were recognized with the
Conservation Champion, Municipal, award for their
efforts to restore and enhance the Pine Creek.
Brian and Terri Boake of Mono received the
Conservation Champion, Individual, award for the
stewardship initiatives they have undertaken on
their farm. They improved water quality and stream
health by restricting livestock from streams and
wetlands, and created a wetland with turtle nesting
sites and basking logs.
The Georgian Triangle Anglers' Association
received the Conservation Champion, Group, award
for their work in restoring 275 metres of juvenile
rainbow trout habitat in Black Ash Creek, which
runs through Collingwood. The association has a
longstanding involvement with the Nottawasaga
Watershed Improvement Program, or N-WIP.
And, Brereton Field Naturalists of Barrie with the
Conservation Partner Award. For more than a
decade, the Brereton's have worked with NVCA on
projects to protect and enhance the Minesing
Wetlands, and in support of NVCA's public
education programs.
"This year, National Volunteer Week's theme is
'Volunteers are part of the ripple effect.' For a
watershed-based organization like NVCA, this
couldn't be more true," said Innisfil Councillor
Doug Lougheed, chair of the NVCA board of
directors. "While our volunteers, partners and
financial supporters all contribute to our success
today, the "ripples" from their efforts will be seen in
our healthy waters and sustainable communities for
years to come."
Page 61
Alliston Herald
Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority hands out awards
Fri Apr 17 2015
Section: News
SIMCOE COUNTY - Volunteers and
community supporters were the stars at the
Nottawasaga Valley Conservation
Authority's Evening of Thanks.
The event, held April 16 during National
Volunteer Week, celebrated the
contributions of individuals, organizations
and businesses that helping to protect and
enhance the environment of the
Nottawasaga Valley watershed.
"This year, National Volunteer Week's
theme is 'Volunteers are part of the ripple
effect.' For a watershed-based organization
like NVCA, this couldn't be more true,"
said Innisfil Coun. Doug Lougheed, NVCA
board of directors chair. "While our
volunteers, partners and financial
supporters all contribute to our success
today, the ripples from their efforts will be
seen in our healthy waters and sustainable
communities for years to come."
NVCA CAO Gayle Wood thanked the
volunteers for their dedication to the
watershed's wellbeing.
"Without the support of our volunteers and
community partners, NVCA would not be
able to undertake the stewardship work and
offer the recreational programming we do,"
said Wood.
NVCA also announced the recipients of the
2015 Conservation Champion Awards at
the event.
Champions are individuals, community
Infomart
groups, businesses, partners or agencies
that have contributed to an environmental
improvement project in one of the NVCA's
18 member municipalities, spanning across
Simcoe, Dufferin and Grey counties.
From a pool of very worthy nominees,
Brian and Terri Boake of Mono received
the Conservation Champion, Individual,
award for the stewardship initiatives they
have undertaken on their farm. They
improved water quality and stream health
by restricting livestock from streams and
wetlands, and created a wetland with turtle
nesting sites and basking logs.
The Georgian Triangle Anglers'
Association received the Conservation
Champion, Group, award for their work in
restoring 275 metres of juvenile rainbow
trout habitat in Black Ash Creek, which
runs through Collingwood. The association
has a longstanding involvement with the
Nottawasaga Watershed Improvement
Program, or N-WIP.
The Township of Essa and the Essa
Healthy Community Committee were
recognized with the Conservation
Champion, Municipal, award for their
efforts to restore and enhance the Pine
Creek.
The Young Conservation Champion award
went to the 1st Alliston, 3rd Beeton, and
1st Tottenham Girl Guides troops and the
4th Alliston Brownie troop. The Guides
and Brownies have volunteered with the
South Simcoe Streams Network "Trees for
Page 1
Page 62
Streams" project for more than five years.
Last year they planted more than 900 trees
and shrubs along Beeton and Spring
Creeks.
Finally, NVCA recognized the Brereton
Field Naturalists of Barrie with the
Conservation Partner Award. For more
than a decade, the Brereton's have worked
with NVCA on projects to protect and
enhance the Minesing Wetlands, and in
support of NVCA's public education
programs.
© 2015 Metroland Printing, Publishing &
Distributing
Infomart
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Ontario Farmer
2015 watershed 'champions'
Tue Apr 28 2015
Page: B24
Section: Production
Illustrations: photo ; NVCA conservation award winners pose for a group photo ;
Volunteers and community supporters were
the stars at the Nottawasaga Valley
Conservation Authority's Evening of
Thanks recently.
The event, held during National Volunteer
Week, celebrated the contributions of
individuals, organizations and businesses
that provide their time and talent to protect
and enhance the environment of the Not
tawasaga Val ley watershed.
"This year, National Volunteer Week's
theme is 'Volunteers are part of the ripple
effect.' For a watershed-based organization
like NVCA, this couldn't be more true,"
said Innisfil Councillor Doug Lougheed,
chair of the NVCA board of directors.
"While our volunteers, partners and
financial supporters all contribute to our
success today, the "ripples" from their
efforts will be seen in our healthy waters
and sustainable communities for years to
come."
"Without the support of our volunteers and
community partners, NVCA would not be
able to undertake the stewardship work and
offer the recreational programming we do,"
said Gayle Wood, NVCA's CAO.
the event. Champions are individuals,
community groups, businesses, partners or
agencies who have contributed to an
environmental improvement project in one
of the NVCA's 18 member municipalities,
spanning across Simcoe, Dufferin and Grey
counties.
Brian and Terri Boake of Mono received
the Conservation Champion, Individual,
award for the stewardship initiatives they
have undertaken on their farm.
They improved water quality and stream
health by restricting livestock from streams
and wetlands, and created a wetland with
turtle nesting sites and basking logs.
The Georgian Triangle Anglers'
Association received the Conservation
Champion, Group, award for their work in
restoring 275 metres of juvenile rainbow
trout habitat in Black Ash Creek, which
runs through Collingwood. The association
has a longstanding involvement with the
Nottawasaga Watershed Improvement
Program, or N-WIP.
"I thank them for their dedication to the
wellbeing of our watershed."
The Township of Essa and the Essa
Healthy Community Committee were
recognized with the Conservation
Champion, Municipal, award for their
efforts to restore and enhance the Pine
Creek.
NVCA also announced the recipients of the
2015 Conservation Champion Awards at
The Young Conservation Champion award
went to the 1st Alliston, 3rd Beeton, and
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1st Tot tenham Girl Guides troops and the
4th Alliston Brownie troop. The Guides
and Brownies have volunteered with the
South Simcoe Streams Network "Trees for
Streams" project for more than five year .
Last year they planted more than 900 trees
and shrubs along Beeton and Spring
Creeks.
NVCA recognized the Brereton Field
Naturalists of Barrie with the Conservation
Partner Award. For more than a decade, the
Brereton's have worked with NVCA on
projects to protect and enhance the
Minesing Wetlands, and in support of
NVCA's public education programs.
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Essa names NVCA in lawsuit regarding
Nottawasaga River erosion
New Tecumseth Free Press Online, April 30, 2015
Geomorphic Ltd. and Terraprobe Inc.
Updated 4:25 pm - A statement issued by Essa Township
The rate of erosion since 1978 has accelerated and is
starting to encroach into the built-up residential area on
Nottawasaga Drive and on Concessions 3 and 4,
immediately north on Brown's line in Angus.
this afternoon only confirms a lawsuit has been filed.
"The Township of Essa has started an action in Superior
Court against various parties dealing with several
erosion-related issues along the Nottawasaga River in
the Angus area. It would not be appropriate to discuss
this any further while it is before the Courts."
Posted April 30, 2015
Essa Township has launched legal action against the
Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA)
and other parties (a list not confirmed at this post)
concerning erosion along the banks of the Nottawasaga
River."
The study's preferred solution is to reconfigure the
channel at an estimated cost (in 2013) of $337,000, not
including a $300,000 contingency for stone work. The
financial estimates do not include excavation and
removal of approximately 15,000m3 of fill, which could
offset the expenditures as a resale commodity.
Stonemount Developments is currently undertaking river
bank stabilization as part of its development, which is
being funded in part by the Township. (More details will
be updated as they are confirmed).
"The Authority will defend this lawsuit as the NVCA
discharged its duties fully and fairly," confirmed Heather
Kepran, NVCA Communications & Public Relations
Coordinator, in an email to Free Press Online. "As you
can appreciate, because this matter is now before the
courts, we cannot comment any further on this case. The
NVCA will comment further once this matter is
concluded."
Details of the action including what Essa is seeking as an
end result, were not yet confirmed at this update. At this
writing, Free Press Online was still awaiting comments
from Essa mayor Terry Dowdall.
In November 2013, the results of the Nottawasaga River
Erosion Hazard Assessment
Class Environmental Assessment was presented to Essa
council. "The intent of this study has been to evaluate the
factors contributing to the identified erosion issues and
develop various mitigation alternatives to address future
channel movement, and resulting erosion and flooding,
that will directly impact existing and future housing
developments and related municipal infrastructure,"
according to the report prepared by PARISH
Pictured above: An historical view of the changing
Nottawasaga River channel. And below, the preferred
solution that reconfigures the water course away from
the homes on Nottawasaga Drive.
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Accessed at http://www.madhunt.com/essa-suenvca-nott-river-20150430.html on May 6, 2015
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Alliston Herald
Simcoe County council defers Beeton forest decision
Tue Apr 14 2015
Section: News
BEETON - Simcoe County council has
deferred a decision to determine if
tree-cutting activity at the Tecumseth
Estates property in Beeton will be allowed
to continue.
Council made its decision following a
special hearing today, which featured a
dozen speakers, including lawyers
representing the 9th Line property owner,
the Rizzardo family, the Town of New
Tecumseth, and many residents.
Warden Gerry Marshal announced the
verdict after council discussed the matter in
a closed session with the county solicitor.
He said the stop work order the county
issued March 3 will remain in effect until
council revisits the matter at a May 12
meeting.
The six-hour meeting began with a
presentation by the county's forester
Graeme Davis, who shed light as to why
proper notification wasn't given to area
residents prior to the special permit being
granted in January.
In normal circumstances he said
notification would have been made near the
beginning of an application. But he said the
application became more complicated since
it involved the removal of endangered
butternut trees, and had been ongoing for
about three years.
"This interruption in the normal process
may have unfortunately contributed to an
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error in procedure where formal
notification was not sent to abutting
landowners," Davis said.
The lawyer representing the property
owners, Ian Rowe, spoke at the beginning
of the meeting and was given the
opportunity to respond to comments made
by the Town of New Tecumseth's solicitor
Jay Feehely.
Rowe argued there were no legal grounds
to issue the stop work order.
"That process (notifying residents) was
entirely in the hands of the county and my
client cannot be faulted for certain
processes that were not followed," he said.
Feehely argued that the permit shouldn't
have been issued since the property owner
didn't disclose what he said were "active
development plans" for the property.
According to New Tecumseth, the property
owner filed an application for an Official
Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law
Amendment in 2003. At the time, the town
was reviewing growth potential in Beeton
and did not process the applications.?New
Tecumseth council adopted the Beeton
Community Secondary Plan in 2005, and
the County approved the Plan in 2006. The
Plan was then appealed to the Ontario
Municipal Board (OMB) by several parties,
including the Rizzardos, who later
withdrew their appeal, and the Plan
received approval from the OMB in 2007.
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"As long as their development plans exist
we don't believe they have the right to cut
down the trees," Feehely said.
a property near the site that has about 80
acres of trees managed by the province's
forestry protection program.
He also said the developer refilled their
development plans after the special tree
cutting permit was issued, which raised
more questions about the intentions for the
property.
"To cut down this forest is like cutting off
your head to make yourself shorter, it just
doesn't make sense," he said.
"Either you are a farmer or you're not, so if
you want to be a farmer then withdraw
your development application," he said.
The town didn't offer more comments
when the application was put forward
because Feehely said "it was out of sight,
out of mind" since the development
application had been dormant since 2008.
One of the issues raised was that an
archeological assessment of the site wasn't
done, despite there being four areas of
significance being identified near the land.
Rowe said his client would be willing to
undertake the study if one is requested.
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He also said town staff deferred the matter
to the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation
Authority for their expertise to comment.
Rowe said the town should have known all
of the issues at hand.
"If there were legitimate concerns the town
should have raised them years ago," he
said.
Rowe maintains that the property owners
want to clear the trees to expand an
existing agricultural operation for a farmer
who leases the land.
"Nobody is trying to pull the wool over
anyone's eyes over what my client's
long-term intentions are," he said.
During the hearing county council heard
from a number of residents in opposition to
the tree cutting.
One of them was Gary Coleman, who owns
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Alliston Herald
New Tecumseth still working to fill Trans Canada Trail gap
Wed Apr 15 2015
Section: News
Byline: Brad Pritchard
NEW TECUMSETH - Doubt has been cast
on whether the second phase of the Trans
Canada Trail in New Tecumseth will be
completed this year.
The town is working to fill a gap in the
Trans Canada Trail by creating a
north-south path along the abandoned rail
line, which the town owns.
At Monday's committee of the whole
meeting, council spoke in length about the
next phase of the project involving the
portion of the trail between the 9th and
14th lines of New Tecumseth.
The second phase has been divided into
four parts: 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d.
Two reports were presented to council,
including a request to award the
construction tender to begin building the
first phase between the 9th and 10th Line.
Council agreed to award the construction
tender and request quotes for phase 2c of
the trail, which stretches between the 10th
Sideroad and the 13th Line.
He noted that the $250,000 Trans Canada
Trail grant the town received is dependent
on 5.7 kilometres of trail being completed
this year.
D'Almada believes the town will be able to
complete five kilometres. He said the
remaining 0.7 kilometres running through
the W.D Potato property still requires
further discussions with the landowner.
"It's their request we not go through the
abandoned railway through their property,"
he said. "I believe right now we have three
options, but each time we add a new option
it requires consultation with landowners,
the NVCA in order to design and build a
trail, so it does get a little more
complicated when you get off the trail."
D'Almada is optimistic the town will
receive grant money if this stretch doesn't
get completed this year.
"It is my hope, even if we don't do the 0.7
kilometres, that Trans Canada Trail will
prorate the grant," he said.
Ongoing difficulties to negotiate mitigation
measures with abutting landowners are
slowing down progress.
D'Almada hopes to present a detour option
for the W.D. Potato property in Beeton to
council in June.
"I do not believe we can complete all of
phase 2 within 2015 with the existing
budget we have planned in the report," said
director of parks, recreation and culture
Patrick D'Almada.
Coun. Fran Sainsbury said the town should
ensure all the mitigation agreements, such
as security fencing, gates and property
setbacks, are finalized before the tenders
are issued for construction.
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"I don't want to award it and start building
the trail and then have people say I didn't
get my gate or my proper fence...we want
this to work out for everybody," she said.
The town is continuing to negotiate with
RJM Farms to see if a $73,000 chainlink
fence needs to be built owner to protect
their land.
Coun. Chris Ross noted that the town has
already offered to build a basic farm fence
and said the property owner should have to
pay for the chainlink fence if they want it.
Coun. Donna Jebb, however, thinks the
owners are justified to ask for the added
fencing.
"I can understand the reason for the
chainlink fence, 25 years ago there was no
such thing as bio security, food safety
issues, but we're in the 21st century..."
The construction work for phase 2c was
awarded to C&C Built Right Ltd. at a cost
of $61,971 plus tax.
The tender does not include repairs that
will need to be performed to a bridge on
the 9th Line, which is estimated to cost
about $96,000.
Phase 2c is estimated to cost just over
$322,000.
The total budget for phase 2 of the trail is
$1.459 million, which includes a carryover
from the 2014 budget of about $427,000.
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The Minesing Wetlands – Jewel of the Nottawasaga
River Watershed
By Gary Christie
Apr 17th, 2015
“For many of us, water simply flows from a
faucet, and we think little about it beyond this
point of contact. We have lost a sense of respect
for the wild river, for the complex workings of a
wetland, for the intricate web of life that water
supports.” - Sandra Postel, Last Oasis: Facing
Water Scarcity, 2003.
History of the Minesing
The term “minesing” is from the Objibway for
“island” referring to an island that once was present
within Lake Edenvale, which encompassed the
present location of the Minesing Wetlands, as we
know it today. It is a remnant of Pleistocene
Glaciers of 18,000 to 11,000 years ago and the large
glacial body of water called Lake Algonquin which
covered a great deal of the lower Nottawasaga
Valley of today. With melting and receding glaciers,
about 5,000 years ago, these lowlands again were
inundated with increasing lake levels from what is
now Georgian Bay. With changes in the lower Great
Lakes drainage, the wetland began to take shape
with new vegetative communities, flood plain
forests and boreal forests and fen established to
what is now the Minesing Wetlands. The wetland
centers about the convergence of the main
Nottawasaga River and its tributaries, the Mad,
Willow Creek and Coates Creek.
Estimates determine that the original coverage of
these wetlands prior to early European colonization
was almost 15,000 ha. Early settlement pushed for
replacement of wetlands with agricultural use.
Research in the 1970’s pointed out with concern,
the loss of these wetlands. With factors such as
climate change, encroaching development and land
use change, the wetlands continue to shrink and are
determined to be less than 7,000 ha today. It is the
largest example of fen bog in southern Ontario and
the most diverse undisturbed wetland in Canada. It
encompasses three townships (Clearview, Essa and
Springwater). The Nottawasaga Valley
Conservation Authority, the province through the
MNR and the County of Simcoe own and manage
most of the 60 square kilometers of the wetland.
Even today, bordering growth and development in
addition to development along the entire
Nottawasaga watershed continue to impact and
stress the Minesing.
Decontaminant and Flood Control Master
The Minesing Wetlands is internationally
recognized as a very significant wetland and an
essential feature of the Nottawasaga River
watershed. This key wetland serves as a critical
nutrient and contaminant filter for the watershed
and provides a sponge-like shock absorbency that
protects lower communities including Wasaga
Beach from catastrophic flooding. As an angler I
have witnessed blockages of the Nottawasaga River
at Baxter with water levels 6 feet above the adjacent
road level or an astounding 20 feet above normal
river levels. With increased flow pressures, the
blockages cleared and the rushing onslaught
continued downstream to the saving natural flood
control of the Minesing. If it were not for the
Minesing, I would hazard to speculate the extent of
damage that would have occurred downstream
below it.
The Internationally Recognized Minesing, a
Wetland in Demise
The Minesing Wetlands (formerly described as a
“swamp” which seemed to infer some sort of
stagnated accumulation of water… NOTHING
COULD BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH) was
recognized in 1996 by the RAMSAR Convention of
1971 as one of only 2,000 significant wetlands in
the world. It is amazing that the world sees this
“jewel” as significant yet our continued
“mal”practices, land use or perhaps best termed,
“abuse”, neglect and lack of recognition over the
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years have sent this important feature into serious
decline. A recent extensive and provocative report
by the NVCA “60 years of Forest Change in the
Minesing Wetlands” which describes this
deterioration, was kept hidden in the minutes of one
of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority
Board minutes meeting (May 2014) by that board. It
was crying for release and only was done so by later
in the year and due to criticism and pressing
requests from the Nottawasaga Steelheaders and
AWARE Simcoe.
http://www.ramsar.org/minesing-swamp
https://rsis.ramsar.org/RISapp/files/RISrep/CA865R
IS.pdf
http://www.nvca.on.ca/Shared%20Documents/60%
20years%20of%20forest%20change%20in%20the
%20Minesing%20Wetlands%20May%202014.pdf
Minesing’s Unique Biodiversity
An important interdependent and unique
biodiversity exists in the Minesing. The presence
and health of its species is a barometer of not only
the Minesing Wetlands well being, but in many
ways, our own.
The Minesing Wetlands provides habitat to over
400 plant species, of which 11 are provincially rare.
It supports numerous plant species which are at the
extremities of their natural range, including those
indigenous to the arctic tundra in the north and the
Carolinian forests to the south. It is home to the
largest pure stand of silver maple in the province.
It is home to 206 species of birds (including 114
breeders) and an important staging area for
thousands of migratory waterfowl. Provincially rare
birds indigenous to the swamp include the Bluewinged Warble, Prothonotary Warbler, Cerulean
Warbler, the Golden-winged Warbler and the Bluegray Gnatcatcher. It has also one of the largest
Great Blue Heronries in the province.
Many rare and unique insect species make the
Minesing home including the Hines Emerald
Dragonfly which has recently been placed on the
endangered species list both in Ontario and the
United States. The Minesing is the only wetland in
Ontario that it is found and its demise is closely
connected to wetland disappearance.
Numerous Dependent Fish Species Challenged
by Minesing’s Change
Many migratory fish species pass through the
Minesing on route to their spawning grounds
including rainbow trout (steelhead), Chinook
salmon and Great Lakes sturgeon (provincial status
– threatened). In the fall of 2014, Nottawasaga
Steelheaders as part of their 4-year steelhead
assessment found fewer numbers of rainbow trout
passing through the Minesing to their usual prespawn staging area (the Notty between the
confluence of the Boyne and the confluence of the
Pine). It possible that that the highly adaptive
rainbow trout due to a number of factors may have
decided to winter over in the Minesing.
The Minesing is the spawning area for one of only
two strains of shallow wetland spawning walleye on
the Great Lakes. They have all but disappeared over
the past 20 years from the Nottawasaga likely due to
deterioration of the Minesing. Walleye are a key
component to a $7 billion dollar Great Lakes
fishery.
Migratory salmonids such as steelhead and Chinook
salmon during the fall are signaled to migrate on
their spawning run as water levels rise and begin to
fall after a rain event. That signal is further
enhanced by an extremely acute ability to sense
minute particulate that originates from their place of
birth and guides them to their home. As a steelhead
angler, I can gauge and target my angling activity
based on the water levels of the Nottawasaga River.
From the upper Notty, the water levels swell and
move quickly downstream signaling fish to move
further upstream. That blast of downstream water
hits the Minesing and is absorbed by the wetlands.
It subsequently gently releases the water
downstream and water levels slowly climb signaling
steelhead all the way downstream and at the river
mouth to ascend. That shock-absorbing ability and
gentle release is an important factor to flood
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prevention throughout the lower levels and Wasaga
Beach.
The Minesing a Canoeist’s Dream
The Minesing Wetlands are one of the significant
tourist drawing experiences for canoeists. Groups
such as the Friends of the Minesing along with other
groups often organize canoe expeditions. The
enriching calm and quiet broken occasionally by the
harmony and music of the many resident birds and
amphibians is enough to make many want to stay a
bit longer.
http://minesingwetlands.ca/
When I think of the Minesing Wetlands as the
“Jewel of the Nottawasaga River Watershed” I
come back to how I view a jewel.
It is a gem.
It has many brilliant facets.
And …It is precious!
Accessed at http://aware-simcoe.ca/2015/04/theminesing-wetlands-jewel-of-the-nottawasaga-riverwatershed/ on Apr. 27, 2015
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Alliston Herald
Essa reviewing Angus flood planning policies
Fri Apr 24 2015
Section: News
ANGUS - The flood planning policies for
Angus are being put under the microscope.
Recently Essa Township received a report
from the consultant looking at the current
development restrictions in place for the
community.
"The recommendation is that we keep
things the same as they are now, keep the
status quo," said township manager of
planning Colleen Healy. "It said our
policies work and make sense in the
context of the provincial legislation that is
in place."
Healy said the review also looked at
whether the township should expand its
two-zone policy for Angus, which allows
for limited forms of development to occur
in flood prone areas within the settlement
boundary, to other areas of the
municipality.
"The province is not in favour of us making
our policies more flexible to allow for
development to go into an area that's at risk
of flooding," she said.
Now that council has accepted the report,
she said the next step is to decide whether
the township should adopt the province's
new definitions of flood fringe and
floodway, which are the components of the
two-zone policy.
guidance on the matter.
"(The new definitions) might help one land
owner, but it might hinder another, so we
need to know what the impact is of using
this new definition," she said.
The township's current flood planning
policies were established from
recommendations of the Greenland
International Consulting study from 2004,
which were based on the provincial
guidelines.
Healy said the Greenland study
recommended the township review the
policy at some point down the road, which
the township is now doing.
She said the policy review was also done as
the township works to update its Official
Plan, which was stalled due to the Ontario
Municipal Board appeals to the county's
Official Plan.
If things continue to progress, she hopes to
have the updated Official Plan presented to
council in the fall.
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Healy has reached out to the Nottawasaga
Valley Conservation Authority to provide
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Alliston Herald
Alliston kids making friends, learning skills with Scouts and Girl
Guides
Sat Apr 25 2015
Section: Community
ALLISTON - There's so much more to
being a scout and a girl guide than learning
how to tie fancy knots and selling boxes of
delicious cookies.
Twelve-year-old Malcolm Lea's eyes shine
with pride when he talks about what it's
like being a member of the First Alliston
Scouts.
"The best part of being a scout is the
experience, what you learn from it, and the
friends you make," he said.
Malcolm became a scout about two years
ago after graduating through the beavers
and cubs programs.
One of his first experiences as a scout was
taking part in the jamboree, a gathering of
thousands of scouts from across Canada
that took place in Alberta.
In addition to learning new camping skills,
from using matches and lighting lanterns,
his group got to visit the West Edmonton
Mall, which has a massive indoor
waterpark.
He also made a new friend on his trip another Malcolm, who lives in British
Columbia.
"Now we email and text each other," he
said.
Malcolm is always learning new skills at
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the camping trips the group organizes
throughout the year, which allows him to
live up to the group's motto: Be Prepared.
"All the things I've learned in Scouts I
would have never have known if I never
joined," he said. "How to use a knife to
carve things and set up a tent in the
wintertime without even using an actual
tent."
Malcolm's younger brother Tyson, five, is
following in his footsteps.
Tyson is in the beavers program, where he
gets to sing songs, make friends, make
crafts and even learn how to make food
like pancakes, and his mom's favourite,
cookies.
He's looking forward to an upcoming
sleepover at the Royal Ontario Museum,
which promises to be a fun adventure.
"They are by far the best programs we have
them in," said their mom Judy.
Girl guides has a lot in common with
scouting, according to 11-year-old Brianna
Mollison.
"It's just having fun that's what I like about
guiding, and getting to be with friends,"
she said.
While she also enjoys the annual camp
trips, she loves giving back to the
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community, like when her troop visits the
seniors at Good Samaritan in Alliston.
"On our visits we make paper flowers if it's
in May, or we do table decorations, or we
will sing and talk with them, it's really
fun."
For Brianna, what sets girl guides apart is
the sash and all of the badges that can be
earned for participating in programs, for
personal interests and community work.
She has collected over 60 badges and has
run out of sewing room on her sash.
The badges she's most proud of include her
religion in life badge, her brownie helper
badge, and the habitat for humanity badge,
which she earned for learning how to do
house building.
Her favourite however is the cookie-selling
badge, which she earned last year for
selling 13 cases. This year she has already
sold 23 cases and proceeds from the sales
help pay for programming.
Scouts and guides regularly team up for
activities such as tree planting, which
recently landed them an award from the
Nottawasaga Valley Conservation
Authority.
This spring, the scouts will be participating
in pitch-in week, where they will pick up
litter outside the Community Living
Association of South Simcoe building in
Alliston.
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Barrie Advance
Wetland projects already having an impact in Barrie area
Sat Apr 25 2015
Section: News
Byline: Laurie Watt
A $1.1-million, three-year wetland project
is already making a difference in our area.
The first generation of wood ducks that
nested in boxes installed last year are
returning from their southern U.S. winter
homes.
At the first few sites in the Oro-Medonte
hills, wood ducks are beginning to nest
again.
"What's really neat is waterfowl, when they
come back in the spring, they're able to
remember the area where they hatched a
successful clutch the year before. They
come back and most often in the same
pond," said Ducks Unlimited Canada
conservation officer Mike Williams.
"The young females hatched in a wood box
will come back to the same area, so you
gradually build your population."
Starting last year and continuing until
2017, the Lake Simcoe Georgian Bay
Wetland Collaborative is building and
maintaining habitats for wetland waterfowl
and wildlife.
Projects range from installing wooden nest
boxes on private property -- small in size
but big in impact -- to restoring wetlands,
such as one in the Rathburn Tract of a
Simcoe County forest in Ramara.
"Historically over 70 per cent of wetlands
in southern Ontario have been lost due to
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urban expansion and agricultural
conversion," said Nottawasaga Valley
Conservation Authority healthy waters
program co-ordinator Shannon Stephens.
"(Our) wetland coverage is 12.3 per cent
and just exceeds the minimum adequate
coverage Environment Canada says is
needed to sustain healthy watersheds."
The nest boxes are a simple but effective
way to help a new clutch of wood
ducklings survive, explained Williams.
Led by their mother across a kilometre of
woodland, "12 to 15 ducklings are easy
prey for coyotes and hawks," said
Williams. With the nest boxes on a
predator-proof pole at the water's edge, the
ducklings fall out into the water, where
they learn to swim and survive.
The collaborative reaches out to
landowners to not only to create a
long-term home for wood ducks but to help
them better manage their lands to support
wildlife and improve water quality by
limiting and reducing nutrients.
Livestock fences, for example, prevent
cattle from wading into streams and
polluting them. Instead, the fences allow
water-filtering plants to grow along the
watercourse.
At the Rathburn Tract of county forest,
there's a wetland constructed in the 1960s
that needs some maintenance work,
Page 1
Page 79
Williams added.
"Wetlands are typically most healthy when
they can go dry once in a while," he
explained. The project involves managing
beavers and muskrats, which as they build
up the dyke can increase the water level,
rather than allowing it to fall naturally and
cyclically.
Distributing
Infomart
Page 2
Page 80
Waterworld: Paddling the Minesing Wetlands
By Ned Morgan. April 27, 2015
Mountain Life Magazine
Free Spirit Tours takes a group into the Minesing Wetlands, April, 2015. Photo by Tim Sproll.
The Minesing Wetlands west of Barrie, Ontario host a huge array of habitats. This globally significant 15,000+
acre sanctuary of bogs, fens, swamps and marshes supports vast networks of delicate flora and fauna, some
endangered.
Free Spirit Tours regularly takes paddlers into the heart of this generous swath of aquatic biosphere. And spring
is a particularly good time to view wildlife.
Page 81
Photo by Tim Sproll.
A large section of the Wetlands support Carolinian forest biome usually found much further south. And in
another section, cool groundwater-fed coniferous swamps and fens thrive – an ecosystem more typical of
Ontario’s north.
Page 82
Many hundreds of bird species have been recorded here, including Ring-necked Duck, Northern Shoveller,
Northern Pintail, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Sandhill Crane, Great Egret, Bald Eagle, and Cerulean
Warbler (Threatened).
The Wetlands host myriad mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and flora which you can read more about here.
Find out even more:
Nature Conservancy of Canada
Free Spirit Tours
The Friends of Minesing Wetlands
Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority
Accessed at http://www.mountainlifemag.ca/2015/04/waterworld-paddling-the-minesing-wetlands/ on Apr 28
2015
Page 83
Preparing for spring
by Brittany Doner-Gilroy,
Project Consultant, Simcoe County Food and Agriculture Charter
Spring is in the air and while many County residents are excited to see the snow
subside, it may come with a cost. Excessive snow melt, heavy spring rains, and
breaking ice jams can result in mild to severe flooding.
One of the most common types of natural disasters, floods have both positive
and negative impacts. Floods can endanger human lives, cause irreversible
damage to homes and businesses, and wash out roadways limiting access to
emergency assistance and food. Overflow of water that occurs during a flood can
also transmit pollutants into the watershed, damage local agricultural crops and
affect livestock production.
Conversely, floods are a naturally occurring phenomenon that can benefit soil
and plant life by providing water and nutrients, restore groundwater, help to
control invasive weeds, aid in the germination of seeds, and enhance the fertility
of agricultural lands. For this reason, flooding requires careful management that
balances the protection of natural resources in harmony with protection of manmade structures and local communities.
The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority co-ordinates programs and
services to protect our local watersheds and ecosystems. This includes
measuring snow depth and water content every two weeks during the winter
season at nine locations across its watershed.
“This information gives us an idea of how much snow there is to melt, and how
much water it will translate to within our rivers and streams,” said Stephanie
Durocher, Water Resources Engineer and Flood Program Coordinator,
Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority.
Durocher reported that this year, as with last, the area did not experience a
winter thaw in January or February. As a result, the area had full snow
accumulation from the entire winter available to melt; this could have meant
spring flooding, under the right conditions.
“Before the snow started to melt, we had about 130 per cent of the average water
content in our snowpack,” said Durocher.
“Looking at these conditions, there was a relatively higher potential for spring
flooding this year than in a typical year. However, as spring progressed, we were
lucky to have a slow melt, with very little rain.”
Though the snow and ice cover still remain in some areas, Durocher points out
we have experienced very little flooding so far this spring.
There are steps you can take, however, to protect your home and ensure winter
snow melt and heavy rainfall throughout the year is channeled appropriately.
Page 84
Tips for Flood Control:




Ensure proper grading around your home and ensure that eaves troughs
direct water well away from your home
Ensure good drainage and keep drain basins and culverts clear
Consider planting a rain garden next year; strategically placing native
plants on your lawn can enhance absorption and retention of water run-off
from roofs, driveways, and compacted lawn areas
Minimize the amount of toxins kept around the home, such as paints,
solvents, automotive fluids and gasoline to reduce the risk of
contaminating water should flooding occur
In addition to proper flood control, residents are encouraged to have a plan in the
event of more severe flooding.
“Flooding, particularly in spring, is the most frequently occurring type of
emergency event in Simcoe County and no community in the region is immune,”
said Cathy Clark, Manager, 911 & Emergency Planning, County of Simcoe.
As such, Clark recommends three important steps you can take to be prepared in
the event you experience flooding: know the flood risk in your area, have a family
emergency plan, and have a family emergency preparedness kit.
If you are unable to leave your home, an emergency preparedness kit will ensure
that you have everything you need for several days. Clark recommends
including non-perishable food for your entire family for at least 72 hours. Also
make sure to consider the food needs of infants, family members with dietary
restrictions, and pets. Lastly, it is important to have bottled water – at least two
litres per day per family member.
For information about what else to include in your family emergency plan and
your emergency preparedness kit, visit the Emergency Management Simcoe
County website at simcoe.ca/EmergencyManagement.
To learn more about the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority visit
nvca.on.ca.
Food Matters is a monthly column addressing a variety of relevant topics concerning the food
system in Simcoe County, as identified by the Simcoe County Food and Agriculture Charter.
Topics may include: healthy eating, food access, and hunger; food and skills development;
farming, the environment, and farmland protection; food and economic development; education
and employment; and food and culture. For more information, visit www.fpa.simcoe.ca
Page 85
Canoeists rescued from Minesing Wetlands
“We thought we had it right this time,” said canoeist
Bob Killam. “(Next time) probably take a GPS with
us, that would have been better, would give us realtime positioning, there wouldn’t have been that
uncertainty.”
Police had to rescue to canoeists after they got lost in the Minesing
Wetlands on Thursday night.
CTV Barrie
Published Friday, May 1, 2015 12:00PM EDT
The OPP Search and Rescue team was pressed into
action on Thursday night when two people got lost
in the Minesing Wetlands.
Officers from the Huronia West OPP and Orillia
OPP teamed up to locate the two people who set out
to explore the Minesing Wetlands Thursday
afternoon.
When the pair became disoriented they called OPP
on their cell phone for help. The OPP helicopter
was called in, located the two in the bust and guided
them back to the water.
“Every year we seem to come upon this same
dilemma where we have canoeists going into a
15,000 acre wetland that’s flooded and they’re
always warned get a guide, know where you’re
going. Lots make it out but a select few just don’t,”
says Byron Wesson with the Nottawasaga Valley
Conservation Authority.
Both canoeists were fine, just a little thirsty and
tired.
Accessed at http://barrie.ctvnews.ca/canoeistsrescued-from-minesing-wetlands-1.2353984 on
May 6, 2015
Page 86
1 of 1
Big box store developer on planning meeting agenda
tonight
Posted May 6, 2015
New Tecumseth Free Press Online
A public meeting is scheduled for 7 pm tonight to hear details of a proposed draft plan of subdivision and
zoning bylaw amendment that would permit expanded commercial and industrial uses on 99 acres at 6437 and
6485 14th Line.
The applicant is Villarboit, structured locally as New Tecumseth Land Corporation, and its proposed draft plan
is dated January 24, 2012. According to its web site, "Villarboit Development Corporation is a Toronto based
developer of high quality retail properties with a 25 year history of delivering quality properties for its clients
and investors. The Company is fully integrated, with in house capabilities for all primary aspects of the
development business including acquisitions, site planning, construction, leasing, as well as property and asset
management. It also provides construction services to select national retailers, and other third party developers."
Among its list of retail clients are Winners, The Home Depot, Best Buy, Michaels, and Value Village, and
commercial/industrial includes Futuremed Health Care, and Hewlett Packard.
Page 87
1 of 2
The Town of New Tecumseth Engineering Department have provided "considerable comments" relate to the
draft plan, phasing, water and sewage servicing, stormwater management, access, etc., that will require minor
amendments to the draft plan and the related technical reports," according to the report on tonight's agenda.
The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) provided several comments related to the following:
Naturalization of the stormwater management pond/adjacent open space block to address wetland loss;
Concerns related to the stormwater outfall channel. Request that the developer assess other options to minimize
impacts on the valley wall and forest.
The County of Simcoe has a prohibition on permanent buildings or structures within 15.0 metres of the limits of
a County Road right-of-way (County Road 10) be incorporated into the site specific zoning of the subject lands;
and no new entrances onto County Road No. 10 (Industrial Parkway) will be permitted from any newly created
lots; and to achieve the required 45.0m right of way for County Road 10, the County will require a road
widening of approximately 2.0m across County Road 10.
In April 2008, the former Hussey family farm structures on the subject site, were destroyed by fire in two
suspected arsons. Guery R. Goyo of Villarboit Development Corporation purchased the property from a
numbered Alberta based company, in October 2006 for $7.12 million.
Accessed at http://www.madhunt.com/villarboit-pub-meeting-20150506.html on May 6, 2015
Page 88
2 of 2
DATE:
May 22, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-05-15
TO:
FROM:
Glenn Switzer
Director of Engineering and Technical Services
SUBJECT:
Log Jams within the NVCA Watershed
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT: Staff Report No. 36-05-15-BOD regarding log jams
within the NVCA watershed, as requested by the Board of Directors,
be received.
The purpose of this Staff Report is to provide an update on log jams within
the NVCA watershed.
Background:
There are many natural processes that occur in river systems that can cause
a restriction to the natural flows such as fallen trees, log jams, beaver dams,
and ice jams. These restrictions often do not cause any problems as the
stream flows flood into the floodplain and bypass the restriction in areas
where no flood damages would occur. However, sometimes these
restrictions occur in urban areas or other areas where flooding has the
potential to cause damage.
Page 89
Municipal staff, Board of Directors and NVCA staff are often requested to
take action on these watercourse restrictions by residents who are
concerned about flooding on their property.
The NVCA watershed encompasses approximately 3700 square kilometers of
drainage area and over 4000 kilometers of watercourses. Many of the
watercourses are tree lined. After storms and during times of higher flow,
the stream banks erode and undercut the banks. It is not uncommon for
the trees to fall into the watercourse.
In some cases, these trees can be washed downstream during high flows
and become lodged against a restriction such as a sharp bend or a bridge
abutment. Once they become lodged, any trees or other floating matter
coming downstream can become entangled causing a log jam. Beaver dams
are also common especially if wetlands or other natural beaver foraging
habitat is close by.
Issues/Analysis:
The NVCA has jurisdiction through the Conservation Authorities Act for the
management of the natural resources of the watershed. The Provincial
government through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has
delegated the responsibility for flood forecasting and warning to
conservation authorities. Unfortunately the NVCA does not have any capacity
to deal with the removal of watercourse restrictions. Where a restriction has
to be removed using heavy equipment which may result in entering into the
watercourse, the works may require a permit through the Development,
Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses
Regulation (Ontario Regulation 172/06). In some cases beaver dams may
have been in place for years and have developed active fisheries and
functional wetland habitat in the ponding upstream from the dam. NVCA
staff review the works to address fisheries and wetland issues, and to ensure
that the method of removal does not cause flooding, sediment deposition
and/or erosion damages to other landowners downstream of the restriction.
Municipal staff are responsible for the protection of their residents and can
take actions where necessary to alleviate flooding. Municipal staff would
normally visit the site to assess the potential for flooding or damages and if
in their opinion the risks are high, may elect to take preventive measures. If
Page 90
so, they should contact NVCA staff to access the requirements for permits
under the NVCA regulations. NVCA staff can assist them to minimize
potential risks from flooding or erosion that may occur during removal. On
the other hand, municipal staff may determine the risks are low and decide
to take no action.
The landowner is often the first to respond to a water course restriction. An
NVCA permit/permission/clearance is required when removing log jams and
beaver dams. Whenever possible, hand tools should be used for removal,
however it is recognized that heavier equipment may be necessary in some
cases. The public should consult with NVCA staff when considering the
removal of log jams and beaver dams.
Beaver dams and log jams are natural elements of our streams and
watersheds and are imperative for overall watershed health. Where they are
causing flooding and other associated damage, they can be removed. Small
beaver dams and log jams can be removed by hand. Where heavier
equipment is needed to address significant dams and log jams, permits from
the NVCA are often required. These permits ensure that watercourse
restrictions are removed in an environmentally responsible manner and that
the landowner is protected from liabilities associated with downstream
flooding, sediment deposition and erosion.
Release of log jams is not mandated by the Conservation Authorities Act.
However, landowners wishing to remove log jams should approach NVCA to
determine if a permit is required.
Salaries to complete this report are addressed in the 2015 budget.
Reviewed by:
Submitted for approval by:
Original Signed by
Original Signed by
___________________________
_______________________
Glenn Switzer, Director
Engineering and Technical Services
D. Gayle Wood,
Page 91
DATE:
May 21, 2015
MEETING NO:
BOD-5-15
TO:
FROM:
Tom Reeve
Senior Manager, Engineering Services
_____________________________________________________
SUBJECT:
National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP)
RECOMMENDATION:
RESOLVED THAT: the Board of Directors approved Staff Report No.
37-05-15-BOD on the National Disaster Mitigation Program; and
FURTHER THAT: the Board of Directors approve the use of the
Operational Reserve Fund, in principle, to serve as matching funding
for a NVCA application for a watershed Risk Assessment under the
NDMP; and
FURTHER THAT: staff seek Board approval for a final appropriation
from the Operational Reserve Fund should federal NDMP funding be
approved.
______________________________________________________
The purpose of this Staff Report is to obtain approval from the Board of
Directors an appropriation from the Operational Reserve Fund, in principle,
to serve as matching funding for a submission under the National Disaster
Mitigation Program (NDMP).
Page 92
Background:
Following severe flooding in several provinces in Canada in 2011, the federal
Economic Action Plan, 2012 proposed the development of a National
Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP), recognizing that mitigation can lessen
the impact of natural disasters on communities and reduce the costs
associated with these events. Investment in disaster mitigation leads to
significant relative savings in future response and recovery costs.
According to the federal government “a key element of any sound mitigation
program is an understanding of both the potential risk of an event occurring,
as well as the potential impacts should the risk be realized. Utilizing a risk
assessment process, emergency management planners [and responders, i.e.
municipalities] can begin to make proactive, risk-based decisions regarding
the potential events that might impact their communities, and determine
what priority measures can be taken, if possible, to improve the safety and
resilience of their communities.”
In recognition of increasing natural disaster costs in Canada, the federal
Budget, 2014 earmarked a total of $200 million over five years to establish
a National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP). Program costs will be
shared between federal and provincial governments. In Ontario, the
provincial lead
will be through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry who can work
with local stakeholders, such as conservation authorities, to apply for federal
funding.
Issues/Analysis:
In Ontario, conservation authorities have been delegated primary
responsibility for risk assessments and flood plain mapping from the Ministry
of Natural Resources and Forestry. In the 1970’s and 1980’s flood plain
mapping commenced under the, then federal/provincial/municipal Flood
Damage Reduction Program. (FDRP). Since that time, there has been no
further federal or provincial investment in this program until the approval of
the NDMT in 2012.
On Thursday May 14, 2014, NVCA Engineering staff attended a Conservation
Ontario meeting to reviewing and discussion program details. Twenty Six of
Page 93
the thirty six conservation authorities expressed interest in providing an
application for funding by the due date of June 6, 2015.
There are four streams of funding under the NDMP:
•
•
•
•
Risk assessments;
Flood plain mapping;
Mitigation planning; and
Investment in mitigation.
It is important to note that in order to be eligible for updated mapping,
planning and investment, risk assessment must be completed first.
NVCA staff are proposing that we apply for funding to complete a
Watershed Risk Assessment. The Authority has some information on our
current communities, resources and infrastructure at risk, based on flood
events and older floodline studies. However, there are large knowledge
gaps in what the risk and consequences could be in our watershed;
including:
•
What are the flood event return period impacts on our known
flood damage centres? For example, does a 25 year flood event
cause damage in Creemore?
•
What would potential flood damage costs be to landowners,
public infrastructure and economic activities?
•
What type of flood events could impact our watershed in the
future considering climate change?
•
How do we determine our priorities for focus on our mitigation
efforts?
Staff propose that NVCA apply for funding to complete a Watershed Risk
Assessment with two components. This first phase would involve data
gathering which would include both technical information (flood studies and
past flood events) as well as economic data (damage, economic disruption).
The second part of the project would include an analysis which would
quantify risks, consequences, and resilience and rank communities across
Page 94
our watershed. This would lead to recommendations regarding where we
need to place our priorities for updated floodplain mapping and would
position us well for a federal funding submission in 2016.
Section 20 of the Conservation Authorities Act defines our mandate.
The province has delegated responsibilities to conservation authorities for
Flood Forecasting and Warning as well as ensuring that development is
protected from flooding under Section 28 of the Act.
NVCA’s Strategic Plan 2014 – 2018 addresses the Goal to “Protect,
Restore and Enhance” our watershed. Specifically, Objective 1 under this
Goal is to “protect life and property from hazards.”
The NVCA Business Plan – 2015 to 2018 further addresses several
strategies to be completed over the next three years in relation to Objective:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Update detailed flood plain mapping;
Refine flood forecasting models/flood damage models;
Enhance delivery of flood forecasting and warning;
Support municipal emergency response programs related to flooding;
Direct new development away from natural hazards; and
Update natural hazard policies in all municipal Official Plans.
An approved “Action Item” outlined in the Business Plan directs staff to
“investigate the National Disaster Mitigation Program”.
Further, the Service Delivery and Operational Review recommends that the
Authority review its expenditures and revenues and look to new partnerships
and funding sustainability.
Staff have discussed the potential costs of completing a Watershed Risk
Assessment with some experts in this field. Although a more accurate cost
estimate will not be available until May 22nd, for the purposes of this Report,
staff are estimating the study to be around $50,000. If approved, fifty
percent (50% or $25,000) of the funding could come from the federal
Page 95
government and NVCA could be eligible to receive up to 15% of the total
project costs for “in-kind contributions” such as labour, use of facilities, and
equipment ($7,500). The remainder ($17,500) would need to be
appropriated from the NVCA’s Operational Reserve which currently retains
an amount of $56,894.
Staff are recommending that the Board approve a draw from the Operational
Reserve Fund, in principle; with the final request being approved by the
Board of Directors should federal funding be received.
Reviewed by:
Submitted for approval by:
Original Signed by
Original Signed by
Glenn Switzer, Director
Engineering and Technical Services
D. Gayle Wood
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NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY

Transcription

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