meeting - authoritytrca.on.ca/dotasset/131980.pdf43m-1429, (145 treeline boulevard), in the city of...

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Authority Meeting #2/12

Chair: Gerri Lynn O'ConnorVice Chair: Maria AugimeriMembers:

March 30, 2012

9:30 A.M.WESTON ROOM B, BLACK CREEK PIONEER VILLAGE

AGENDA

AUTH Material for Consideration at Authority Meetings OnlyEX Material Considered by the Executive Committee Prior to the AuthorityBAAB Material Considered by the Budget/Audit Advisory Board Prior to the Authority

AUTH1. MINUTES OF MEETING #1/12, HELD ON FEBRUARY 24, 2012(Minutes Enclosed Herewith on WHITE)

AUTH2. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

AUTH3. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF

AUTH4. DELEGATIONS

AUTH5. PRESENTATIONS

AUTH5.1 Staff Years of Service Awards

AUTH5.2 A presentation by Jessica Taliana and James Christie in regard to Lyme Disease.

AUTH7. SECTION I - ITEMS FOR AUTHORITY ACTION

AUTH7.1 DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTSManagement Strategy for 2012 17

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AUTH7.2 WATERSHED COMMITTEES MEMBERSHIP CHANGESMembership Changes to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, the Humber Watershed Alliance and the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition. 23

AUTH7.3 PETTICOAT CREEK WATERSHED ACTION PLAN 25

AUTH7.4 ONTARIO MUNICIPAL BOARD HEARINGCity of Mississauga New Official Plan (2011) 32

AUTH7.5 ROUGE VALLEY NATIONAL PARKParks Canada Statement of Intentions 35

AUTH7.6 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSMentoring to Placement for Environmental Professionals Program (M2P) 46

AUTH7.7 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ONTARIO COALITION PROGRESS UPDATE 52

AUTH7.8 INLAND FILLHumber Watershed Clean Topsoil Placement Projects 56

AUTH7.9 GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2011-2015Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River WatershedMaria Pandolfo, Yolanda Pandolfo, Cathy Campione, Laura Pandolfo and Guiseppe Pandolfo 63

AUTH7.10 TORONTO URBAN FARM AT BLACK CREEK PIONEER VILLAGE 67

CONFIDENTIAL - ITEM AUTH7.11 - As it pertains to court cases in which the Authority is involvedAUTH7.11 ONTARIO MUNICIPAL BOARD MEDIATION

PROPOSED RESOLUTION Report to Follow

AUTH8. SECTION IV - ITEMS FOR THE INFORMATION OF THE BOARD

AUTH8.1 FREEDOM OF INFORMATIONSummary of 2011 Requests and Appointment of Information and Privacy Officer 72

AUTH8.2 WEST NILE VIRUS PROGRAMAnnual Report - West Nile Virus Vector Mosquito Larval Monitoring and Surveillance - 2011 74

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AUTH8.3 WATERSHED COMMITTEE MINUTES

AUTH8.2.1 DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCILMinutes of Meeting #2/12, held on February 2, 2012

AUTH8.2.2 ETOBICOKE-MIMICO WATERSHEDS COALITIONMinutes of Meeting #4/11, held on November 17, 2011

EX. MATERIAL FROM EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING #1/12, HELD ON MARCH 2, 2012

(Refer to Minutes printed on PINK)

BAAB. MATERIAL FROM BUDGET/AUDIT ADVISORY BOARD

(No meeting held this month)

NEW BUSINESS

NEXT MEETING OF THE AUTHORITY #3/12, TO BE HELD ON APRIL 27, 2012, AT 9:30 A.M. IN WESTON ROOM B, BLACK CREEK PIONEER VILLAGE

Brian DenneyChief Administrative Officer

/jr

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EX. MATERIAL FROM EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING #1/12, HELD ON MARCH 2, 2012

(Refer to Minutes printed on PINK)

EX7. SECTION I - ITEMS FOR AUTHORITY ACTION

EX7.1 GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2011-2015Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River WatershedTown of Caledon (formerly Cancian Construction Ltd.)CFN 45439 2

EX7.2 GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2011-2015Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River WatershedTown of Caledon (formerly Alliance Palgrave Inc.)CFN 45480 5

EX7.3 GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2011-2015Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River WatershedTown of Caledon (formerly Sunshine Estates)CFN 37841 8

EX7.4 GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2011-2015Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River WatershedTown of Caledon (formerly Camp Villas Corporation)CFN 38075 11

EX7.5 BOB HUNTER MEMORIAL PARKAward of Sole Source Contracts, Forest Planting Contracts to Nongovernmental Organizations 14

EX8. SECTION II - ITEMS FOR EXECUTIVE ACTION

EX8.1 NAMING OF STEELES WEST STATION 15

EX8.2 ONTARIO MUNICIPAL BOARD HEARINGTribute (Unionville) Limited - 20 Fred Varley Drive Limited20 Fred Varley DriveTown of Markham, Regional Municipality of York 16

EX8.3 MEADOWCLIFFE DRIVE EROSION CONTROL PROJECTContract RSD12-03 19

EX8.4 LOTUS NOTES SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENTAward of Sole Source Contract for Consulting Services 22

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EX8.5 DELL ESX SERVER AND VMWARE UPGRADESAward of Sole Source Contract 23

EX8.6 ENERLIFE CONSULTING INC. AGREEMENT 24

EX8.7 RESISTANCE BOARD WEIR IN DUFFINS CREEK 26

EX9. SECTION IV - ITEMS FOR THE INFORMATION OF THE BOARD

EX9.1 IRE-YONGE DEVELOPERS INC., 4155 YONGE STREETProposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment ApplicationsCity of Toronto, North York Community Council Area 28

EX10. ONTARIO REGULATION 166/06

PERMIT APPLICATIONS EX10.1 - EX10.2 WERE MAJOR APPLICATIONS

CITY OF PICKERING

EX10.1 CITY OF PICKERINGTo site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Part Lot 20, Concession 3, (Duffin Heights - near Brock Road and Dersan Street), in the City of Pickering, Duffins Creek Watershed as located on the property owned by City of Pickering. The purpose is to reconstruct a failed valley slope and install a french drain. 34

TOWNSHIP OF KING

EX10.2 HAMLEYS DEVELOPMENTS INC.To construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, site grade, temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere and alter a watercourse on Lots 7, 8, 9, 10, Concession 8, (Highway 27 and 15th Sideroad), in the Township of King, Humber River Watershed as located on the property owned by Hamleys Developments Inc. The purpose is to allow development and the alteration of a watercourse within a Regulated Area of the Humber River Watershed to facilitate the construction of a con-span culvert crossing (Crossing B) at Fairmont Ridge Trail to service a 698-unit draft approved plan of subdivision in the northeast quadrant of Nobleton, Township of King. 34

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PERMIT APPLICATION EX10.3 WAS A MAJOR APPLICATION - ERRATA

CITY OF TORONTO [TORONTO AND EAST YORK COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.3 FIRST GULF CORPORATIONTo site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Lot 9, Concession 6, (255 Wicksteed Avenue), in the City of Toronto (Toronto and East York Community Council Area), Don River Watershed as located on the property owned by First Gulf Corporation. The purpose is to reconstruct a failed valley slope, relocate and replace a failed catch basin and asphalt parking lot, and install a rip rap drainage channel. 35

CITY OF BRAMPTON

EX10.4 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARDTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure on Plan 43M-1429, (145 Treeline Boulevard), in the City of Brampton, Humber River Watershed as located on the property owned by Peel District School Board. The purpose is to undertake works within a TRCA Regulated Area of the Humber River Watershed in order to facilitate the construction of a 343 square metre, single storey addition to Treeline Public School associated with a municipal site plan application. 35

CITY OF PICKERING

EX10.5 997 GRAFTON COURTTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure on Lot 48, Plan 40M-1627, (997 Grafton Court), in the City of Pickering, Frenchman's Bay Watershed. The purpose is to construct an in-ground swimming pool with associated hardscaping in the rear yard of the existing single family detached dwelling at 997 Grafton Court in the City of Pickering. 35

CITY OF TORONTO [ETOBICOKE YORK COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.6 1-3-51 VALLEY CRESCENT INC.To construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure and change a building or structure so that it alters its use or potential use, increases its size or increases the number of dwelling units on Lot 614 TO 621, Plan 2008, (3 Valley Crescent), in the City of Toronto (Etobicoke York Community Council Area), Humber River Watershed as located on the property owned by 1-3-51 Valley Crescent Inc. The purpose is to construct a one-storey garage addition to the rear/side of the existing industrial building at 3 Valley Crescent in the City of Toronto (Etobicoke York Community Council Area). 36

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EX10.7 16 HUMBERCREST BOULEVARDTo change a building or structure so that it alters its use or potential use, increases its size or increases the number of dwelling units on Lot 131, Plan 1582, (16 Humbercrest Boulevard), in the City of Toronto (Etobicoke York Community Council Area), Humber River Watershed. The purpose is to construct a two-storey addition and upper deck to the rear of the existing single family detached dwelling at 16 Humbercrest Boulevard in the City of Toronto (Etobicoke York Community Council Area). Also proposed is to repave and reconfigure the existing rear terrace and steps. 36

CITY OF TORONTO [NORTH YORK COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.8 GRANITE CLUBTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on , (2350 Bayview Avenue), in the City of Toronto (North York Community Council Area), Don River Watershed as located on the property owned by Granite Club. The purpose is to construct a new two storey addition onto the north side of the existing clubhouse building. 37

EX10.9 109 DONWOODS DRIVETo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure and site grade on Lot 12, Plan 2469, Lot 2, Plan 3464, (109 Donwoods Drive), in the City of Toronto (North York Community Council Area), Don River Watershed. The purpose is to construct a new asphalt driveway to front, terrace addition to the rear, and a new retaining wall to the east side of the existing single family detached dwelling at 109 Donwoods Drive in the City of Toronto (North York). This proposal also includes soft landscaping and site grading in the removal of existing pavers, hardscaping and a timber retaining wall in the rear yard of the dwelling.. 37

CITY OF TORONTO [SCARBOROUGH COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.10 33 LADYSBRIDGE DRIVETo change a building or structure so that it alters its use or potential use, increases its size or increases the number of dwelling units, site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Lot 190, Plan 5053, (33 Ladysbridge Drive), in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area), Highland Creek Watershed. The purpose is to construct a rear sunroom addition to the existing dwelling and fill in the existing in-ground swimming pool at 33 Ladysbridge Drive in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area). 37

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EX10.11 FIRST CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENTTo site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Plan 66M-1282, (2301 and 2329 Brimley Road and 175 Commander Boulevard), in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area), Highland Creek Watershed as located on the property owned by First Capital Asset Management. The purpose is to site grade and resurface existing driveways/parking areas as part of the site renovations to the proposed Chartwell Shopping Centre. 38

EX10.12 43 SUNNYPOINT CRESCENTTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Part Lot 482, 483, Plan 2347, (43 Sunnypoint Crescent), in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area), Waterfront Watershed. The purpose is to construct a swimming pool, decks and associated landscaping behind the existing dwelling at 43 Sunnypoint Crescent in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area). 38

EX10.13 32 CEDARVIEW DRIVETo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Part Lot 46, Plan 2732, (32 Cedarview Drive), in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area), Highland Creek Watershed. The purpose is to The purpose is to construct a new two-storey single family detached dwelling and attached garage at 32 Cedarview Drive in the City of Toronto (Scarborough). The existing dwelling and detached garage will be demolished. 38

EX10.14 63 SYLVAN AVENUETo change a building or structure so that it alters its use or potential use, increases its size or increases the number of dwelling units, site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Lot 80, Plan 4351, (63 Sylvan Avenue), in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area), Waterfront Watershed. The purpose is to construct a second storey addition over as well as a two-storey front and rear addition to the existing dwelling at 63 Sylvan Avenue in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area). 39

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CITY OF VAUGHAN

EX10.15 CASTLEPOINT INVESTMENTS INC./MOLISE KLEINBURG ESTATES SOUTH INC.To construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Lots 22, 23, 24, Concession 9, (Highway 27 and Nashville Road), in the City of Vaughan, Humber River Watershed as located on the property owned by Castlepoint Investments Inc./Molise Kleinburg Estates South Inc. The purpose is to allow development within a Regulated Area of the Humber River Watershed to facilitate topsoil stripping, preliminary cut and fill operations, final earthworks and the installation of sediment and erosion control measures, including two temporary sediment control ponds, in Phase 2 of a draft approved plan of subdivision (19T-06V14) at 115 Putting Green Crescent (former Kleinburg Golf Course) in the City of Vaughan. 39

TOWN OF CALEDON

EX10.16 3618 KING STREETTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure on (3618 King Street), in the Town of Caledon, Humber River Watershed. The purpose is to undertake work within a TRCA Regulated Area of the Humber River Watershed in order to facilitate the installation of a residential waterline connection associated with a municipal building permit. 40

TOWN OF MARKHAM

EX10.17 58 RIVERBEND ROADTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure on (58 Riverbend Road), in the Town of Markham, Rouge River Watershed. The purpose is to undertake works within a TRCA Regulated Area of the Rouge River Watershed in order to facilitate the construction of an inground swimming pool associated with a municipal building permit.40

EX10.18 UPPER UNIONVILLE INC. C/O TACC DEVELOPMENTSTo site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Lot 16, 17, Concession 6, (4672 16th Avenue), in the Town of Markham, Rouge River Watershed as located on the property owned by Upper Unionville Inc. The purpose is to establish the site grading, temporarily or permanently place materials originating from the site or elsewhere, establish sediment and erosion controls, and the removal of a white cedar organic coniferous swamp in support of the Upper Unionville draft approved plan of subdivision (19TM-10003). 40

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TOWN OF WHITCHURCH-STOUFFVILLE

EX10.19 6323 BLOOMINGTON ROADTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, site grade, temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere and interfere with a wetland on Lot 10, Plan 2, (6323 Bloomington Road), in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, Duffins Creek Watershed. The purpose is to undertake works within a wetland Area of Interference in order to establish an equestrian facility. 41

TOWNSHIP OF KING

EX10.20 14455 12TH CONCESSIONTo site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Lot 15, Concession 12 Lot 15, Plan 65R9405, (14455 12th Concession), in the Township of King, Humber River Watershed. The purpose is to construct a new barn, conduct minor grading works to create an enhanced drainage swale and conduct grading works to create a new septic system within a Regulated Area of the Humber River watershed at 14455 12th Concession in the Township of King. 41

PERMIT APPLICATIONS EX10.3 and EX10.21 - EX10.24 WERE ERRATA ITEMS:

CITY OF TORONTO [ NORTH YORK COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.21 80 FOREST GROVE DRIVETo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure and change a building or structure so that it alters its use or potential use, increases its size or increases the number of dwelling units on Lot 33, Plan M-754, (80 Forest Grove Drive), in the City of Toronto (North York Community Council Area), Don River Watershed. The purpose is to construct a semi-enclosed portico and concrete pathway to the front and a second storey above the existing single family detached dwelling at 80 Forest Grove Drive in the City of Toronto (North York). This proposal also includes the reconstruction of the existing driveway to the front and the concrete stairway to the east side of the dwelling. 42

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CITY OF VAUGHAN

EX10.22 CAMELOT ON 7 INC.To construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, site grade and temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Lot 6, Concession 7 Lot 6, Plan 1543, (4908 Highway 7), in the City of Vaughan, Humber River Watershed as located on the property owned by Camelot on 7 Inc.. The purpose is to recognize minor grading works conducted for landscaping purposes as well as permit the construction of a deck within a Regulated Area of the Humber River watershed at 4908 Highway 7 in the City of Vaughan. 42

TOWN OF MARKHAM

EX10.23 54 RICHARD PERSON DRIVETo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure on Lot 10, Plan 65M-2385, (54 Richard Person Drive), in the Town of Markham, Rouge River Watershed. The purpose is to undertake works within a TRCA Regulated Area of the Rouge River Watershed in order to facilitate the construction of a two-storey addition to an existing dwelling associated with a municipal building permit. 43


EX10.24 14 LAKEVIEW AVENUETo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure on Lot 48, Plan 404, (14 Lakeview Avenue), in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, Rouge River Watershed. The purpose is to construct a new single family detached dwelling with and cantilevered deck and retaining wall to the rear yard of 14 Lakeview Avenue in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. The existing dwelling is to be demolished. 43

PERMIT APPLICATIONS EX10.25 - EX10.34 ARE PERMISSION FOR ROUTINE INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS:


EX10.25 AIRLINXTo undertake borehole investigations on Lot 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Plan 43R-33793, West side of Goreway Drive, south of CN Railway Tracks, in the City of Toronto (Etobicoke York Community Council Area), Mimico Creek Watershed as located on the property owned by AirLINX. The purpose is to undertake borehole investigations to aid with determination of soil stability in advance of the construction of the piers for the proposed Metrolinx Airport Rail Link project. There will be no in water works associated with the proposed borehole works. 44

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CITY OF TORONTO [NORTH YORK COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.26 CITY OF TORONTOTo undertake borehole investigations in a regulated area near Don Mills Road and Yonge Street, in the City of Toronto (North York Community Council Area), Don River Watershed as located on the property owned by City of Toronto. The purpose is to undertake hydro-geological investigations for the proposed Phase II of the detailed design of Hoggs Hollow improvements, near York Mills and Yonge Street in the City of Toronto - North York. There will be no in water works associated with the proposed investigations. 44

CITY OF TORONTO [SCARBOROUGH COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.27 CITY OF TORONTOTo undertake structure maintenance on a pedestrian bridge in Cedar Brook Park, near Markham Road and Lawrence Avenue East, in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area), Highland Creek Watershed as located on property owned by the City of Toronto. The purpose is to undertake maintenance works to the existing pedestrian bridge structure. Works will include the removal and replacement of the existing metal rails and steel deck. A Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Letter of Advice will be prepared by TRCA staff for the proposed works. 44

EX10.28 TORONTO HYDRO ELECTRIC SYSTEMTo undertake sewer and watermain or utility installation or maintenance within an existing roadway on Middlefield Avenue near Finch Avenue East, in the City of Toronto (Scarborough Community Council Area), Highland Creek Watershed as located on property owned by the City of Toronto. The purpose is to install a concrete encased duct along Middlefield Road between Finch Avenue and McNicoll Avenue. The conduit will be installed within the municipally owned right-of-way via open cut trenching. No in-water works are associated with this project. 45

TOWN OF MARKHAM

EX10.29 BELL CANADATo undertake sewer and watermain or utility installation or maintenance within an existing roadway on Highway 7, west of Rodick Road, in the Town of Markham, Rouge River Watershed as located on the property owned by The Regional Municipality of York and the Town of Markham. The purpose is to raise the elevation of an existing Bell Canada maintenance hole, install a new conduit via open cut, and place temporary fill to match the future grade of Highway 7 to accommodate the widening work associated with the VIVA transit expansion. 45

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EX10.30 REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORKTo undertake road/pathway resurfacing or reconstruction and drainage structure general maintenance on Woodbine Avenue from Woodbine Avenue Bypass to Stouffville Road, in the Town of Markham, Rouge River Watershed as located on the property owned by the Regional Municipality of York. The purpose is to re-pave Woodbine Avenue from the Woodbine Avenue Bypass to Stouffville Road using full depth reclamation, resulting in a grade increase of 25mm. Two regulated culverts are being replaced. TRCA staff will issue a Letter of Advice (LOA) on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) cold water fisheries timing window will apply to this proposal unless otherwise specified by the MNR in writing. 46

EX10.31 REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORKTo undertake road/pathway resurfacing or reconstruction, and drainage structure general maintenance on McCowan Road from Elgin Mills Road to Stouffville Road, in the Town of Markham, Rouge River Watershed as located on the property owned by the Regional Municipality of York. The purpose is to re-pave McCowan Road from Elgin Mills Road to Stouffville Road. One regulated culvert is proposed to be replaced. TRCA staff will issue a Letter of Advice (LOA) on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The Ministry of Natural Resources cold water fisheries timing window will apply to this proposal unless otherwise specified by the MNR in writing. 46


EX10.32 REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORKTo undertake road/pathway resurfacing or reconstruction, and drainage structure general maintenance on Warden Avenue from Bloomington Road to Aurora Road, in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, Rouge River Watershed as located on the property owned by the Regional Municipality of York. The purpose is to re-pave Warden Avenue from Bloomington Road to Aurora Road. Three regulated culverts are proposed to be replaced. Associated works include two sections of ditch re-grading and two sections of pipe subdrain installation. TRCA staff will issue a Letter of Advice (LOA) on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The Ministry of Natural Resources cold water fisheries timing window will apply to this proposal unless otherwise specified by the MNR in writing. 47

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TOWNSHIP OF KING

EX10.33 REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORKTo undertake road/pathway resurfacing or reconstruction, and drainage structure general maintenance on King Road from Albion-Vaughan Road to Highway 27, in the Township of King, Humber River Watershed as located on the property owned by the Regional Municipality of York. The purpose is to re-pave King Road from Albion-Vaughan Road to Highway 27. Eleven regulated culverts and a storm sewer outlet pipe with two associated catch basins are also being replaced. TRCA staff will issue a Letter of Advice (LOA) on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The Ministry of Natural Resources cold water fisheries timing window will apply to this proposal unless otherwise specified by the MNR in writing.47

EX10.34 REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORKTo undertake road/pathway resurfacing or reconstruction, and drainage structure general maintenance on 15th Sideroad from Keele Street to Bathurst Street in the Township of King, Humber River Watershed as located on the property owned by the Regional Municipality of York. The purpose is to re-pave 15th Sideroad from Keele Street to Bathurst Street. Two regulated culverts will be replaced. TRCA staff will issue a Letter of Advice (LOA) on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The Ministry of Natural Resources cold water fisheries timing window will apply to this proposal unless otherwise specified by the MNR in writing. 48

PERMIT APPLICATIONS EX10.35 - EX10.39 ARE MINOR WORKS LETTER OF APPROVAL:

CITY OF PICKERING

EX10.35 1133 GOSSAMER DRIVETo construct a ground floor addition up to 50 sq. m (538 sq. ft) on Lot 40, Plan 40M1811, (1133 Gossamer Drive), in the City of Pickering, Waterfront Watershed. 48


EX10.36 285 RIVERSIDE DRIVETo change the use, size, or number of dwelling units of a structure, or undertake work that does not change the footprint of the existing structure on , (285 Riverside Drive), in the City of Toronto (Etobicoke York Community Council Area), Humber River Watershed. 49

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EX10.37 2 COUNTRY CLUB DRIVETo change the use, size, or number of dwelling units of a structure, or undertake work that does not change the footprint of the existing structure on Part Lot 34, Plan 4823, (2 Country Club Drive), in the City of Toronto (Etobicoke York Community Council Area), Humber River Watershed. 49

CITY OF TORONTO [TORONTO AND EAST YORK COMMUNITY COUNCIL AREA]

EX10.38 421 HEATH STREET EASTTo construct a non-habitable accessory structure up to 50 sq. m (538 sq. ft) on , (421 Heath Street East), in the City of Toronto (Toronto and East York Community Council Area), Don River Watershed. 49

TOWN OF CALEDON

EX10.39 102 GRAY PARK DRIVETo construct a ground floor addition or structure greater than 50 sq. m (538 sq. ft) but less than 150 sq. m (1614 sq. ft) on Lot 69, Plan 43M-1374, (102 Gray Park Drive), in the Town of Caledon, Humber River Watershed. 49

EX10.40 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILLTo temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere on Phyllis Rawlinson Park, east of Leslie Street north of 9th Avenue, in the Town of Richmond Hill, Rouge River watershedas located on the property owned by Town of Richmond Hill. The purpose is to develop one hectare of dog off leash area within the existing farm fields zone in Phyllis Rawlinson Park, Town of Richmond Hill. 50

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EX10.41 TOWN OF RICHMOND HILLTo construct, reconstruct, erect or place a building or structure, change a building or structure so that it alters its use or potential use, increases its size or increases the number of dwelling units, site grade, temporarily or permanently place, dump or remove any material, originating on the site or elsewhere and alter a watercourse at Rumble Pond Park, near Mill Street and Bathurst Street, in the Town of Richmond Hill, Don River Watershed as located on the property owned by Town of Richmond Hill. The purpose is to construct a new channel to take the existing stormwater management pond off-line, upgrade the existing pond and outlet structure, and improve the surrounding landscaping and amenity areas. The work is intended to improve fish passage through this reach and improve water quality discharge into Patterson Creek. The project will showcase a number of new innovative water technologies, and has been approved for funding through the Ministry of the Environment's 'Showcasing Water Innovation' program. A Letter of Advice will be written by TRCA staff on behalf of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), and the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) will apply the appropriate fisheries timing window through their review of the project under the Endangered Species Act. 50

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Item AUTH7.1TO: Chair and Members of the Authority

Meeting #2/12, March 30, 2012

FROM: Nick Saccone, Director, Restoration Services

RE: DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTSManagement Strategy for 2012

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEManagement of Double-crested Cormorants at Tommy Thompson Park

RECOMMENDATION

THE BOARD RECOMMENDS TO THE AUTHORITY THAT staff be directed to continue to work with the Cormorant Advisory Group to assist the TRCA in addressing management concerns regarding colonial waterbirds at Tommy Thompson Park;

THAT staff be directed to work with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Canadian Wildlife Service, and any other required regulatory agency to seek approval for the 2012 management strategy for colonial waterbirds at TTP.

THAT staff be directed to implement the proposed management strategy for 2012.

THAT staff be directed to continue to actively participate in local, regional and binational committees/working groups addressing the management and protection of colonial waterbirds.

AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority Board annually regarding the management of Double-crested Cormorants at Tommy Thompson Park.

BACKGROUNDTommy Thompson Park (TTP) is an urban wilderness park located at the foot of Leslie Street in the City of Toronto. It supports the largest colony of Double-crested Cormorants (DCCO) in the Great Lakes Region, plus diverse communities of bird, fish, reptile, amphibian, mammal, and vegetation species. It has been formally designated as a globally significant Important Bird Area (IBA) and an Environmentally Significant Area (ESA #120). The Master Plan that guides the development of TTP includes the goal of conserving and managing the natural resources and environmentally significant areas of the park. While the DCCO colony adds to the diversity of the park and is environmentally significant, there are concerns about the impacts of DCCO on tree health and biodiversity in other areas at TTP.

TRCA began a process to ensure the TTP Master Plan goals and objectives were upheld and the concerns are addressed. TRCA initiated the involvement of stakeholders and the public to create a management strategy for DCCO at TTP. The process started in November 2007 with the establishment of the Cormorant Advisory Group, and lead to the development of the 2008 Cormorant Management Strategy which was approved by the TRCA Board in 2008 as per Resolution #A110/08:

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THAT staff be directed to continue to work with the Cormorant Advisory Group to assist Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in addressing management concerns regarding colonial waterbirds at Tommy Thompson Park (TTP);

THAT staff be directed to work with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Canadian Wildlife Service and any other required regulatory agency to seek approval for the 2008 management strategy for colonial waterbirds at TTP;

THAT staff be directed to implement the proposed management strategy for 2008;

THAT staff be directed to continue to actively participate in local, regional and binational committees/working groups addressing the management and protection of colonial waterbirds;

AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority next year regarding the management of Double-crested Cormorants at Tommy Thompson Park. Since 2008 TRCA staff have annually sought approval from the TRCA Board to adopt the management strategy and have subsequently reported back on the Strategic Approach at the end of the breeding season:

In 2009 as per Resolution #A22/09,In 2010 as per Resolution #A23/10, andIn 2011 as per Resolution #A49/11.

The overall goal of the Double-crested Cormorant Strategic Approach, as established by the Cormorant Advisory Group in 2007, is to achieve a balance between the continued existence of a healthy, thriving cormorant colony and the other ecological, educational, scientific and recreational values of TTP. The objectives of the Strategic Approach are to increase public knowledge, awareness, and appreciation of colonial waterbirds; deter cormorant expansion to Peninsula D; limit further loss of tree canopy on Peninsulas A, B and C; and continue research on colonial waterbirds in an urban wilderness context. To achieve these goals and objectives the five main management actions established in 2010 were carried throughout 2011 (Attachment 1).

The management techniques employed in 2011 have not changed significantly since management began in 2008, with slight modifications. A professional tree service company was hired in an attempt to improve inactive nest removal efficiency. However, due to unsafe conditions resulting from poor tree health and nest height, it was determined that the existing nest removal technique was the most efficient. The “2011 Management Summary and 2012 Management Strategy” provides details on management actions and is available upon request.

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Pre-nesting deterrent techniques took place between March 29 and May 30, 2011 on Peninsula C following the scale of escalating deterrents including active nest removal using the conservative protocol for estimating embryo development prepared by the Humane Society of the United States. Pre-nesting deterrents have been limited by nesting Black-crowned Night-Herons (BCNH) and deterrents were not carried out on Peninsula B due to their presence. Deterrents have focused on areas with healthier trees, and have avoided areas traditionally occupied by BCNH to ensure they are not impacted by DCCO management.

Several post breeding deterrent sessions occurred in September throughout Peninsula C following the fledging of chicks. The deterrents mainly took place within areas of heavy roosting to decrease further impacts to tree health and limit prospecting behaviour. Human presence and general contact with the roost tree proved to be sufficient to flush the majority of DCCO from their loafing positions and did not require further escalation.

Public knowledge, awareness and appreciation for DCCO at TTP were improved through the installation of a specialized camera that remotely uploaded pictures of the ground nesting colony to the TTP website (www.trca.on.ca/birdcam). The camera provided staff, researchers and the public with views of the colony over the course of the breeding season. A viewing blind that was installed on Peninsula C was successful in providing the public with good views in close proximity of the tree nesting areas without disturbing the birds. Additionally, staff interpreted the colony at various public events, including a Colonial Waterbird hike at the annual Spring Bird Festival.

Overall, the 2011 Management Strategy was successful in meeting the objectives of the Strategic Approach.

Cormorants were effectively deterred from expanding their nesting areas beyond the

existing colonies, including onto Peninsula D; Ground nesting continues to increase and now represents 40 per cent of the entire TTP

DCCO population;Tree nesting has not significantly increased;

Colonial waterbird research continued through the work of York University; and

Public knowledge, awareness and appreciation of colonial waterbirds was improved

through targeted site interpretation by staff at various park events and formal hikes, as well as the introduction of the web camera and a viewing blind.

In 2011 the DCCO population numbered 11,374 nests on three of four peninsulas. The increase in nest numbers was mainly due to ground nesting on Peninsula B which increased 37 per cent from 2010. Overall the ground nest population has increased 351 per cent since management efforts began in 2008 and in 2011, 40 per cent of the TTP DCCO nested on the ground, therefore their nests are not affecting the tree health. In 2011 tree nesting increased by 11.5 per cent with only 48 new trees occupied by DCCO. Tree nesting appears to be levelling off, with no significant increase in 2011 and no new areas were occupied by tree nesting cormorants thereby helping to limit the further loss of forest canopy.

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RATIONALEAn extremely high level of concern has been expressed regarding DCCO populations and their management. Concerns have been raised from both sides, on the one hand calling for management and the preservation of forest canopy, and on the other hand for protection of the birds and their nesting colonies. TRCA has an obligation to manage Tommy Thompson Park as directed by the Master Plan for Tommy Thompson Park as approved under the Environmental Assessment Act. To meet the intent of the Master Plan, TRCA staff feel that there is a strong rationale for undertaking a strategic approach to the management of Double-crested Cormorants at Tommy Thompson Park.

Since November 2007, TRCA has involved stakeholders and the public in assessing the need for management and developing a strategy for DCCO at TTP. Generally, throughout the process there has been agreement that some form of management is appropriate, providing that the methods are humane to cormorants and do not affect other wildlife.

To date, results from the annual population counts have shown an increase in the ground nesting colony and a leveling off in the tree nesting colonies. This suggests that the pre- and post-nesting deterrents that have taken place as part of the 2009 to 2011 Strategic Approaches have been successful in changing the nesting behaviour of DCCO. Unfortunately, since there is no control area in the colony, this hypothesis cannot be refuted or accepted. As such, TRCA has developed an adaptive 2012 Strategic Approach (Attachment 2) that will focus on monitoring and reduce the amount of active pre-nesting deterrents to help quantify the effect deterrents have on increasing the ground nesting colony. The reduction in pre-nesting deterrents within the tree nesting colony will help inform staff if deterrents are necessary to achieve continued growth in the ground nesting colony, or if ground nest enhancements are enough to achieve the continued increase.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONEA suite of techniques will be utilized in an integrated and adaptive approach to achieve the goal and objectives of the 2012 Strategic Approach, which maintains the original goal and objectives from 2008. Attachement 2 provides an overview of the 2012 Strategic Approach.

Increase Public Knowledge, Awareness and AppreciationTRCA website, including images from the remote camera. Improvements will be made

to photo cataloguing and photo interpretation so the public is more informed on the status of nesting. Efforts will also be made to include video of nesting cormorants on the website;Conduct interpretive tours for school and interest groups, and at TTP special events;

Improve opportunities to view colonial waterbirds with viewing blinds and platforms;

Present information at conferences and forums; and

Participate in working groups on colonial waterbirds.

Inactive Nest RemovalRemove nests from trees on Peninsulas B and C during the winter, prior to the breeding

season.

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Enhanced Ground NestingPlace simulated natural nests in ground nesting areas on Peninsulas A and B;

Deploy DCCO decoys and play auditory breeding calls to attract DCCO to ground nest

areas; andErect predator exclosures to improve ground nesting success and colony

establishment.

Pre-nesting DeterrentsThe expansion of tree nesting DCCO beyond the existing colonies on Peninsulas B and

C will be prevented. Deterrents within the core of the tree nesting colonies on Peninsula B and C will not be undertaken. DCCO will be prevented from nesting on Peninsula D;

Deterrent techniques will remain the same as 2011 and employed on an increasing

scale of activity to ensure expansion of the tree nesting area does not occur; andStaff will monitor the effects deterrent activities have on the DCCO colony as well as on

non-target species.

Post-breeding DeterrentsDeterrent activities will take place on Peninsula C and D to reduce loafing; and

Techniques will be the same as 2011 and will be employed on an increasing scale of

activity.

Monitoring, Research and ReportingUndertake annual nest census for colonial waterbirds in late May;

Conduct annual tree health surveys on Peninsulas A, B, C and D in late August;

Continue to collaborate with York University on DCCO research;

Complete annual summary report; and

Meet with Cormorant Advisory Group to review data and discuss whether changes are

required for 2013.

FINANCIAL DETAILSFunds are available in the Tommy Thompson Park Interim Management account 210-19 in the approved 2012 budget.

Report prepared by: Ralph Toninger, extension 5366; Karen McDonald, extension 5248Emails: [email protected]; [email protected] information contact: Ralph Toninger extension 5366Email: [email protected]: February 29, 2012Attachments: 2

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Attachment 12011 Strategic Approach Matrix

Peninsula A Peninsula B Peninsula C Peninsula DInactive Nest Removal (prior to 2011 breeding season)

* *

Enhanced Ground Nesting * *

Pre-nesting Deterrents * *

Post-breeding Deterrents * *

Restoration * * *

Attachment 22012 Proposed Strategic Approach Matrix

Peninsula A Peninsula B Peninsula C Peninsula DInactive Nest Removal (prior to 2012 breeding season)

* *

Enhanced Ground Nesting * *

Pre-nesting Deterrents * * *

Post-breeding Deterrents * *

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FROM: Adele Freeman, Director, Watershed Management

RE: WATERSHED COMMITTEES MEMBERSHIP CHANGESMembership Changes to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, the Humber Watershed Alliance and the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition.

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUETo keep the Authority members abreast of the watershed committees' membership changes which have occurred over the last year.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the revised membership of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, the Humber Watershed Alliance, and the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition be approved.

BACKGROUNDThe Terms of Reference for the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, the Humber Watershed Alliance and the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition, dated November 2009, were approved at Authority Meeting #9/09, held on November 27, 2009. Section 5 of the Terms of Reference sets out that the membership be reviewed on a annual basis and that any resignations or recommendations for new members be presented to the Authority for approval.

Over the normal course of the watershed committees' terms, a number of members resign and new members are brought on board.

The following tables identify the new appointments to the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, the Humber Watershed Alliance and the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition which have been confirmed to date:

Don Watershed Regeneration Council - New Appointments

Member RepresentingSusan Sigrist York Region Environmental AllianceMargaret Casey Toronto Resident

Humber Watershed Alliance - New Appointments

Member RepresentingCouncillor Deb Schulte Regional Municipality of York

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Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition - New Appointments

Member RepresentingGlen Gumulka City of Mississauga ResidentJoe Silva(Alternate to Boris Swedak)

Applewood Ratepayers Association(City of Mississauga Resident)

JR Leo(Alternate to Kim Sellers - maternity leave)

Evergreen

The following individuals have submitted their resignations and are thanked for their contribution:

Don Watershed Regeneration CouncilDianne Ness, Toronto Resident

Gloria Marsh, York Region Environmental Alliance

Reiko Obokata, York University

Brian Bertie, TRCA

Jonathan Veale, Toronto Resident

Humber Watershed AllianceCouncillor Gino Rosati, Regional Municipality of York

Paul Gardner, City of Vaughan

Lori Capoccia, Vaughan Resident

Arshad Ali, Brampton Resident

Victoria Kramkowski-Epner, Toronto Resident

Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds CoalitionJaipaul Massey-Singh, City of Brampton Resident

Report prepared by: Lia Lappano, extension 5292Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Lia Lappano, extension 5292Emails: [email protected]: February 23, 2012

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RE: PETTICOAT CREEK WATERSHED ACTION PLAN______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEApproval of the Petticoat Creek Watershed Action Plan

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the Petticoat Creek Watershed Action Plan be approved.

THAT copies of the Petticoat Creek Watershed Action Plan be circulated to municipalities in the watershed.

THAT the municipalities be requested to assist TRCA to implement plan recommendations, as appropriate to the municipality.

THAT a copy of the Petticoat Creek Watershed Action Plan be circulated to the Rouge Park Alliance and Parks Canada, and the Alliance be requested to assist TRCA to implement the plan recommendations.

AND FURTHER THAT copies be circulated to local libraries in the Petticoat Creek watershed and posted on the TRCA web site.

BACKGROUNDThe initial direction to develop a watershed plan for Petticoat Creek was discussed at Authority Meeting #8/07, held on October 26, 2007, where Resolution #A240/07 was approved as follows:

THAT WHEREAS the Petticoat Creek watershed located in the City of Pickering, Region of Durham, is experiencing a number of pressures resulting from urban and near urban pressures;

WHEREAS interest has been expressed in developing a plan for the protection of the resources of the watershed;

WHEREAS the undeveloped portions of the Petticoat Creek watershed are protected by the provincial Greenbelt designation, Rouge Park and previously by agricultural easements;

WHEREAS there are a number of planning requirements to bring official plans into conformity with the Greenbelt designations;

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WHEREAS Petticoat Creek is geographically situated between the Duffins and Rouge watersheds and whereas these adjacent watersheds have undergone extensive review in recent years and that it is reasonable to assume that many of the "lessons learned" in those processes may apply to this smaller watershed;

THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT TRCA staff be directed to meet with interestedcouncillors and the appropriate senior staff of the Region of Durham, City of Pickering, Region of York and Town of Markham to consider the opportunity of holding a one day forum/meeting to discuss the needs and opportunities and to develop an action plan to protect and enhance the watershed resources of Petticoat Creek within the context of the current planning opportunities and initiatives at the provincial, regional and local level;

THAT TRCA staff discuss with these persons a cost sharing arrangement to support this effort including, but not limited to, a one day forum/meeting, including development of any background reports, meeting facilitation and preparation of a strategic action plan/report with recommendations based on the forum outcomes;

THAT staff report back within the first quarter of 2008 on these discussions including potential funding arrangements and timelines;

AND FURTHER THAT staff provide the Altona Forest Stewardship Committee with an overview of the South East Collector and subdivision development projects in the vicinity of Altona Forest.

Over a period of ten months following that decision, TRCA staff investigated partnership and funding opportunities to develop the plan. Discussions were held with Rouge Park, the City of Pickering, and the Town of Markham. Rouge Park expressed interest in working with TRCA to develop the proposed plan, and funding was provided by the Regions of York and Durham, with additional funding support from the Town of Markham and the City of Pickering, to begin plan development. The Board was updated at Authority Meeting #06/08, held on July 25, 2008, where Resolution #A172/08 was approved as follows:

THAT staff be directed to continue to pursue required partnerships and funding support for the required action plan for the Petticoat Creek watershed;

THAT the Regions of York and Durham be thanked for their recently announced funding contribution of $20,000 as part of the York Durham Sewer System Project;

THAT the City of Pickering and the Town of Markham be thanked for their funding support;

THAT the City of Pickering, Town of Markham, Rouge Park Alliance and community groups be advised that this study will commence in the fall;

THAT staff be directed to report back on the progress of this study in the fall;

AND FURTHER THAT a copy of this report be sent to the Clerks of the Region of Durham, Region of York, City of Pickering, Town of Markham, City of Toronto, and the Rouge Park Alliance.

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HistoryPetticoat Creek watershed is one of the smallest in the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s (TRCA) jurisdiction, draining approximately 27 square kilometres of land, with areas in the City of Pickering, Town of Markham, City of Toronto, and Rouge Park. North of Finch Avenue, the watershed is mainly rural and designated as “Protected Countryside” in the Greenbelt, and part of the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve, both designated by the Ontario government in 2005, as well as in the Central Pickering Development Plan, prepared by the Province in 2006. The long history of agriculture in the area has not resulted in significant ecological degradation of the northern portion of the watershed. The agricultural community has generally been a good steward of this land.

South of Finch Avenue, the predominant land use is urban, where the density, timing and type of development have impacted watershed health negatively. Earlier development focussed on conveying stormwater away from table land as efficiently as possible without any regard for the health of the Petticoat Creek. Development constructed during the past two decades has improved significantly by employing stormwater management controls, such as end-of-pipe stormwater management ponds, to provide stormwater treatment necessary to mitigate the negative ecological impacts from urbanization. Today, stormwater standards strive for even greater levels of control which address objectives for overall water balance consisting of managing stormwater using a variety of technologies from conventional stormwater ponds to green infrastructure practices such as green roofs, permeable pavement, and tree clusters. While the watershed has lost a significant amount of forest cover, it retains unique features such as Altona Forest and the Rouge-Duffins Wildlife Corridor, which provide east-west terrestrial natural heritage links. The few remaining natural areas in the southern portion of the watershed are protected in valley lands and in Petticoat Creek Conservation Area, where the stream flows into Lake Ontario.

Petticoat Creek was never permanently flowing, due to its natural physiography with limited groundwater discharge. Today, Petticoat Creek is an urbanizing, warmwater stream dominated by agricultural uses. The watershed is considered to be generally in “fair” condition by TRCA ecosystem managers, according to assessments of existing natural cover. Its ecological function is altered, but well-positioned to respond favourably to restoration efforts, and it certainly deserves more attention than it has received. The former Rouge-Duffins-Highland-Petticoat Conservation Authority created a watershed plan in 1956 for these four watersheds jointly, which was the last comprehensive watershed management planning undertaken for Petticoat Creek. The headwaters of Petticoat Creek originate south of the Oak Ridges Moraine. As the headwaters are not on the Moraine, there were no provincial requirements for the completion of a watershed plan under the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act (2001). Petticoat Creek was one of the last watersheds in TRCA’s jurisdiction without a watershed plan.

Current actions are inadequate to maintain the health of this watershed. This watershed plan serves as a call to action. Without new efforts and resources, Petticoat Creek will become yet another degraded watershed. There is an opportunity now to implement a coordinated approach to maintaining and enhancing the ecological function of Petticoat Creek into the future, while advancing the concepts of urban sustainability. The watershed is well-positioned to respond favourably to even modest investment in restoration at this time:

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There is a high level of protection for the northern reaches of the watershed through the

Central Pickering Development Plan and the Greenbelt;It is favourably located between the Rouge River and Duffins Creek watersheds which

both have high biodiversity and large amounts of protected natural land;It is a system heavily reliant on surface water, therefore would be responsive to

improved stormwater management in southern portions of the watershed;The watershed has an overall “fair” condition, land and water stewardship activities

could maintain, protect and enhance conditions with significant results over a short term; andImplementation action can be adjusted to work with resources coming from a variety of

sources, to meet the needs of the watershed while fulfilling the objectives of the funder.

Experience has shown that having an approved watershed plan in place is often a catalyst for action and a proven, critical step to secure the resources necessary for effective watershed management. While TRCA, Rouge Park, and local and regional municipalities had completed a number of studies which include this watershed, and have been actively engaged in restoration and other forms of management in the area, these initiatives were largely reactive, primarily focused on immediate issues or opportunities, and not guided by an overarching plan. In 2007, Councillors from the City of Pickering and the Town of Markham requested that TRCA complete a watershed plan for Petticoat Creek. The purpose of this report is to summarize the study process, consultations, identify the key watershed plan recommendations, and request the Authority to adopt the Action Plan and direct its formal circulation to stakeholder muncipalities and agencies which are critical to implementation.

Plan DevelopmentPreliminary staff review identified sufficient water quality, groundwater, surface hydrology, terrestrial natural heritage, fisheries, erosion, stormwater and public use (trails) information available to start the planning exercise. Data for many of the critical water management elements such as flood control and flood plain mapping had been gathered and analyzed for other purposes. Extensive environmental information had been collected as part of the City of Pickering’s Growth Management Study (2003) and the Central Pickering Development Plan (2006). The plan also benefitted greatly from Source Water Protection technical studies. Advanced watershed studies in neighbouring watersheds also provided an extensive knowledge base on general watershed issues and cost-effective management actions which can be applied to Petticoat Creek watershed. The watershed was characterized as stable, as a result of various management activities undertaken over the past 20 years.

Given the availability of existing information, and the high level of protection afforded the watershed with the Greenbelt Plan (2005), it was determined that a comprehensive watershed planning process was unwarranted, since available resources were sufficient to develop a strategic Action Plan. Recognized gaps in watershed work were proposed to be addressed as part of implementation, therefore the planning study focussed on the compilation of available information, interpretation of this information to improve our understanding of current watershed system functions and health, and preparing strategic management recommendations to guide future decisions.

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Although the process to develop this Action Plan was simplified in comparison to TRCA’s usual watershed planning initiatives, significant staff time was invested from many divisions of the Authority to contribute to and review the draft versions. Watershed Management staff led the process in consultation with Ecology, Planning and Development, Restoration Services, and Rouge Park. Since this Action Plan is the result of a simplified process and no State of the Watershed reports were completed, existing conditions are described in the document only where adequate information allowed. The watershed maps are an integral part of this Action Plan since they illustrate the existing conditions. Mapping was done in conformity with provincial Source Water Protection planning standards.

ConsultationTRCA circulated draft versions of the document to planning staff at the Region of Durham, Town of Markham, and City of Pickering for review and comment. Comments from staff at all three municipalities were generally favourable and supportive of the recommendations and overall direction of the Petticoat Creek Watershed Action Plan. TRCA also worked in close consultation with Rouge Park in the early stages of plan development to analyze GIS information, and in later stages of writing the document.

The scope of the public consultation was scaled to the small population of the watershed, and the limited resources available for this planning process. TRCA, Rouge Park, and City of Pickering staff worked in partnership, in consultation with the Town of Markham, Durham Region, other watershed partners, and the public, to review issues and seek feedback on the planning process and recommendations.

A presentation was made to the Altona Forest Stewardship Committee in January 2008, as an important watershed community-based stakeholder group. A public open house was advertised in local newspapers and held in June 2009, to share findings and gather input. The session:

Introduced the study team;

Described the study process and expected outcomes;

Summarized the existing physical conditions of the watershed, the watershed’s role in

the larger regional planning context, as well as its significance as part of Rouge Park and a link in regional trail and recreation networks; and Sought the public’s input on the Action Plan and proposed next steps.

A notice was sent to non-government organizations by the Pickering Regional Councillor involved with the plan to notify them of the open house and planning process. Our municipal partners were kept informed throughout the process, with presentations to City of Pickering Council in June 2009, and to the Town of Markham Planning Committee, a standing committee reporting to Markham’s Council, in October 2009.

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Watershed Action Plan RecommendationsThe following are recommendations excerpted from the Action Plan. To view the full document, please see www.trca.on.ca/ . A paper copy will be available at the meeting for Members to review or reference. Individual paper copies can be made available, upon request. Key recommendations which will benefit many aspects of the watershed simultaneously, such as water quality, and terrestrial and aquatic systems, are integral to the overall health of the watershed. These recommendations should be integrated into future decisions by all partners.

Encourage the Province to support the implementation of actions which will achieve 1.provincial planning objectives such as the Greenbelt Plan (2005) and Central Pickering Development Plan (2006);Implement rural best management practices in partnership with the agricultural 2.community;Bring lands with high conservation value into public ownership (i.e. along the Lake 3.Iroquois shoreline) through the development review process and as outlined in TRCA’s Greenlands Acquisition Project 2011-2015;Ensure that new development, redevelopment, and retrofits of existing development 4.incorporate best management practices and low impact development practices in water management and protection and enhancement of the natural heritage system.Maintain and improve natural (green) infrastructure, such as Pickering urban forest 5.initiatives;Implement stormwater management retrofit initiatives and community stewardship 6.projects such as lot-level stormwater management and backyard naturalization. In addition to lot-level measures, ensure that new and retrofit development, including infrastructure, investigates opportunities to mitigate flood risk within the watershed;Seek out opportunities to implement the Central Pickering Development Plan, and the 7.TRCA Terrestrial Natural Heritage System across the other areas of watershed;Work with municipal partners and non-government organizations to engage and 8.educate the community on sustainable actions and behaviours;Protect cultural heritage resources and integrate nature-based recreation opportunities 9.with larger regional systems; andIntegrate all existing and new monitoring and information into TRCA’s Envirodatabase, 10.and share information with TRCA’s watershed planning report card initiative (to begin 2012) for Petticoat Creek.

Implementation PlansTRCA Restoration Services created a Draft Restoration Opportunities Plan for Petticoat Creek watershed in 2008 which proposed to implement projects in concert with the recommendations of this Action Plan, however no funds have been designated to begin the work. Rouge Park has also planned ecological restoration opportunities for the public lands in Petticoat Creek watershed in the Park. Some areas have been restored, but the funding necessary to complete the work is lacking. New resources are required to maintain the health of Petticoat Creek watershed and prevent further degradation. The Authority’s experience across all nine watersheds in its jurisdiction has repeatedly shown that it is more cost-effective to work on prevention rather than on restoration. Experience has also shown that having a plan in place enables the Authority to act expediently when resources become available. New resources may arise from a number of opportunities including:

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Environmental Assessment compensation work required for infrastructure under the

Central Pickering Development Plan;York-Durham Southeast Collector Environmental Enhancement initiatives;

Rouge Park restoration work, and new planning and projects from the federal

government for the anticipated Rouge National Park; andPublic acquisition of land, through the development approval process, in and adjacent

to the Petticoat Creek valley between Highway 401 and Sheppard Avenue, in the urbanized area of Pickering.

There are also opportunities to improve communications and public consultation through existing programs such as TRCA and Rouge Park stewardship programs, as well as those through the City of Pickering. Heightened awareness resulting from a completed Action Plan may bring about local champions. In addition, the role of watershed councillors, who raised the issue of the importance of a coordinated plan, to assist in accessing new resources to further effective implementation cannot be understated.

Next StepsThe approved version of the Action Plan document will be sent to a graphic designer for layout and design. A webpage on the main TRCA website, www.trca.on.ca is being created for Petticoat Creek watershed. A notice to residents of the watershed will be distributed in Spring 2012, pending Board approval of the Action Plan, to direct people to the website where they can learn more about the watershed, and download a copy of the plan.

FINANCIAL DETAILSThere is no budget for implementation at this time. Staff will continue to seek opportunities through existing budget processes, collaboration with watershed municipalities and through other unique opportunities to secure funds and/or in-kind resources to support the key implementation actions.

Report prepared by: Gary Bowen, extension 5385; Maryam Nassar, extension 5937Emails: [email protected], [email protected] For Information contact: Gary Bowen, extension 5385; Maryam Nassar, extension 5937Date: March 16, 2012

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FROM: Carolyn Woodland, Director, Planning and Development

RE: ONTARIO MUNICIPAL BOARD HEARINGCity of Mississauga New Official Plan (2011)

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEAuthorization to retain legal counsel at the Ontario Municipal Board on appeals to the City of Mississauga New Official Plan (2011).

RECOMMENDATION

THAT authorization be given to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff to retain legal counsel to protect TRCA's interests before the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) regarding the City of Mississauga New Official Plan (2011);

THAT TRCA staff continue to work cooperatively with TRCA's municipal partners and the appellants to ensure TRCA's interests are implemented as part of the OMB process;

AND FURTHER THAT the OMB and all parties to the hearing be so advised.

BACKGROUNDOn September 22, 2011, Region of Peel Council gave partial approval to the new Mississauga Official Plan (2011) and directed Regional staff to issue a Notice of Decision. The appeal period ended on October 27, 2011. The Region of Peel received 19 appeals to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) regarding the partially approved Mississauga Official Plan (2011). Nine of the appeals are to the entire Official Plan, and 10 appeals are site-specific.

TRCA staff were consulted and provided input to the new Official Plan. Staff is supportive of the natural heritage, natural hazard land and floodplain management policies of the Plan. Some of these proposed policies are being challenged by the appellants. In addition to having an interest to support the City in defending their Official Plan policies, which are of mutual importance to TRCA, there are two appeals that affect TRCA's policies and programs.

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The Azuria Group represents 3150 Golden Orchard Dr., located at the south-west corner of Golden Orchard Dr. and Dixie Rd. The appellant is appealing the Official Plan in its entirety. The property has a special site-specific policy status under the old Official Plan that permits a third apartment building on the southerly portion of the property, which is partially located within the TRCA Regulated Area of the Etobicoke Creek Watershed. The Little Etobicoke Creek valley runs along the south of the property. The new Official Plan designates part of the property as "Natural Areas" and "Natural Hazards". The landowner is willing to withdraw the appeal if the special site-specific policy is added back in the new OP to continue to permit future development. It is within TRCA's interest to ensure that the future development on the subject lands is consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS 2005) and TRCA's Valley and Stream Corridor Management Program (VSCMP) policies. Furthermore, the hazard lands, floodplain and their associated buffers should be dedicated to a public agency for long-term conservation and management. TRCA and City staff are working together to try to resolve the appellant's issues prior to the OMB hearing.

White Elm Investments Ltd. represents 1450-1458 Dundas St. E., located south of Dundas St. E. and east of Dixie Rd. The appellant is appealing the entire Official Plan and has stated concerns with several specific policies related to natural heritage, natural hazard and floodplain management policies. The subject property is located in an area that is potentially at risk to flooding and as such, the City has designated the lands "Natural Hazards" within the new Official Plan, but it is not within the TRCA Regulated Area. The appellant is concerned that specific policies and schedules in the new Official Plan may preclude their proposed vision to redevelop the lands. It is the interest of TRCA to ensure that future development on the subject lands is consistent with the PPS 2005 and TRCA's VSCMP policies.

RATIONALEA Pre-Hearing Conference meeting was held on February 17, 2012. TRCA staff attended and were granted party status. Several dates have been set by the OMB to scope issues leading up to a Second Pre-Hearing Conference in June 18, 2012. For the time being, staff level involvement will be required during the scoping process until such time that staff identify a need to engage legal counsel. TRCA staff consider TRCA's involvement to be critical in this hearing to support the City of Mississauga New Official Plan (2011) policies related to natural heritage, natural hazard lands and floodplain management, and to ensure future development on 3150 Golden Orchard Dr., and 1450-1458 Dundas St. E. are consistent with the PPS 2005 and the TRCA's VSCMP policies.

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DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONEStaff will continue to represent the interests of the TRCA during the scoping process. Should the need arise, as a result of the scoping process, TRCA staff is requesting authorization of the TRCA Authority to retain legal counsel to ensure TRCA's interests, as identified above, are protected and addressed. TRCA staff and retained legal counsel would continue to work with the parties and participants to the hearing in an attempt to resolve our issues, and to reduce legal fees to the greatest possible extent.

Report prepared by: Leilani Lee-Yates, extension 5370Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Leilani Lee-Yates, extension 5370Emails: [email protected]: March 15, 2012Attachments:

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FROM: Brian Denney, Chief Administrative Officer

RE: ROUGE VALLEY NATIONAL PARKParks Canada Statement of Intentions

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUERatification of a Statement of Intent with Parks Canada to work towards a recommendation on the park boundaries and to take the necessary steps to establish the Rouge National Urban Park

RECOMMENDATION

That the "Statement of Intent -Towards Cooperation and Collaboration in the Establishment of a National Urban Park in the Rouge Valley" be endorsed.

That TRCA request direction from the Ministry of Infrastructure regarding the disposition of provincial lands conveyed to TRCA in title or by management agreement for Rouge Park purposes.

That TRCA express its thanks to Minister Peter Kent for the support of the Government of Canada to create the National Park.

That TRCA express its thanks to Mr. Alan Wells, Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance for his leadership in pursuit of the resolution of the governance and funding solutions for the Rouge Park.

That TRCA continue to offer its assistance to Parks Canada regarding the transition period and provision of other services to Parks Canada after the National Park is established.

BACKGROUNDAt Authority Meeting #2/10, held on March 26, 2010, Resolution #A33/10 was approved. The clauses of the resolution are repeated below, along with a brief summary of progress on each respective component of the resolution. Members of the Authority may wish to look at the full report on the web site for a more detailed background of the events leading up to the request to the federal government.

THAT the Chair and Members of the Rouge Park Alliance be advised that Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) supports the following in response to the recommendations of the "Governance, Organization and Finance Review of Rouge Park Alliance, February 2010":

the creation of a Rouge Federal Park on the lands shown as areas 1, 2 and 3 on

Schedule A attached;

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the development of the terms of a "Founding Deal", including, but not limited to the

elements of such a deal as shown in Schedule B attached;discussions wtih the Alliance to engage the federal and provincial governments in the

creation of the proposed federal park governance structure and creation of a joint interpretive/educational centre for Rouge Park;

In June 2011, the Speech from the Throne set the direction for the Government of Canada to establish a national urban park in the Rouge Valley. Other announcements by Minister Kent, combined with initiatives by Parks Canada to host a visioning session and lead the preparation of the Statement of Intent, confirm that the national park is beginning to take shape. It is anticipated that the federal budget to be released on March 29, 2012 will contain provisions that will advance the process to create the national park. By requesting the endorsement of the Statement of Intent by the public agencies that own the land comprising the existing park, Parks Canada is seeking to ensure that the lands required for the park will be available for transfer at an appropriate time in the future.

THAT TRCA advise the Rouge Park Alliance that TRCA is prepared to serve as the "Interim Transition Entity", as proposed in the Elements of a Founding Deal;

It will take some years to create the national park including the time required to prepare and authorize a specific Act. Parks Canada may need some assistance during that period to continue planning, development , programming and lease management within the park. TRCA has expressed an interest in providing such assistance provided that cost recovery can be achieved. It is anticipated that these discussions can be advanced after the federal budget has been released. Given that the Province of Ontario has announced its decision to end involvement in the Rouge Park Alliance at the end of July 2012, other provisions for the management, coordination and priorization of activities in the park will need to be made.

THAT staff, in conjunction with the Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance, continue to pursue an appropriate form of tenure in the remaining provincial lands that have been identified as part of the Rouge Park;

In the fall of 2011, the Province of Ontario confirmed its intention to transfer the east Markham lands to TRCA , under a management agreement, thereby confirming that these lands will also be available for inclusion within the national park. As some of the lands remain in the title of the Province of Ontario, and many of the lands in TRCA's title came from the province, with a condition that they be held for Rouge Park purposes, the Province of Ontario is a major participant in the ongoing discussions with Parks Canada and will need to give TRCA instructions on the process TRCA is to follow in making the lands available to Parks Canada.

THAT, if requested by the City of Toronto, staff be directed to explore the feasibility of TRCA assuming the operation of the Glen Rouge Campground;

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TRCA assumed management of the campground at the beginning of the 2011 season and it operated successfully. Presumably, TRCA will continue to operate the campground for the 2012 season and staff is preparing to do so.

THAT staff be directed to pursue funding for the capital development of elements of the Park, as approved by the Rouge Park Alliance and the respective municipalities, through TRCA's budget process and other funding opportunities;

Substantial additional investment was secured through York Region as part of the environmental enhancements required as a condition of approval for the south-east collector for the York Durham sewer expansion project. This funding has enabled trail, bridge and habitat projects. It is anticipated that about $3.5 million will be available from the Region of York over 3 years.

THAT staff be directed to update the existing Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), Rouge Park Alliance and TRCA to provide for the continued land assembly, planning, development and operation of the Park, while the negotiations with the governments continue;

Given the decision by the Province of Ontario, as noted above, to withdraw from the Alliance as of July 31,2012, the MOU will be terminated. TRCA will now be dealing directly with Parks Canada and the other participants in the "Landholders Table" , in an effort to coordinate planning and implementation priorities while the development of the national park progresses. TRCA staff will endeavour to keep development of the park progressing, and manage the various leases in the park, while the negotiations for the national park continue.

AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to continue to participate in discussions with the Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance and representatives of the Town of Markham to respond to the report of the Rouge Park Implementation Task Force, and in particular to develop a strategy for the protection and restoration of heritage structures within the Park.

Protection of heritage structures within the park continues to be a challenge and will be the subject of further negotiations among the parties. In the interim, TRCA seeks to secure and maintain important structures within the limits of available funding. The Town of Markham has offered some financial support for maintenance of two critical structures.

RATIONALEThe request by Parks Canada for execution of the Statement of Intent is an encouraging step forward in the creation of the Rouge Valley National Park. Parks Canada needs to know that the various owners of public lands that comprise the park are prepared to make the lands available. Parks Canada is well aware that there are many issues to be resolved, and questions to be answered, before the actual conveyance of lands can take place. Parks Canada has provided an overview of the process to be followed(Attachment 2) and has already begun to demonstrate its commitment to an inclusive process of consultation.

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Some of the major questions from TRCA's perspective are as follows:What are the exact boundaries of the park?

What is the plan for the park?

What is the process for community involvement in planning, implementation and operation?

What, if any, is the ongoing role of TRCA within the Park,on behalf of Parks Canada?

How will the Park interface with TRCA's other policy and program interests within the Rouge

Watershed?What is the investment that the federal government intends to bring to the Park in terms of

additional lands, capital and operating funding allocations?How will TRCA's many existing tenants be engaged and supported through the process of

development of the park?How will agriculture be encouraged to continue in the park and what forms will it take?

How will the deterioration of heritage structures in the park be reversed?

How will the momentum of park development and programming be maintained during the

process of development of the new Act and establishment of Parks Canada staffing within the park?What are the expectations, if any, for ongoing financial contributions by the province of

Ontario, the municipalities, the TRCA and other participants who have brought the park to the present situation?What impact will there be on TRCA's existing staff resources, both directly in the planning

and programming of the park, and indirectly in many of the park infrastructure development and regeneration activities?Will there be private fundraising objectives that might compete with the TRCA's " Living City

Foundation"?What will be the role of the Toronto Zoo as a major attraction adjacent to the Park?(Parks

Canada has advised that there will be bilateral discussions with the City of Toronto and Toronto Zoo)How will TRCA's Port Union waterfront project, scheduled for completion later this year,

serve as one of the "front doors" to the park and what are the implications for ownership and maintenance responsiblity?How will the recently completed trails master plan be incorporated into the ongoing parks

planning process and similarly, what will be the process to integrate the original plan for the Rouge Park, south of Steeles, the Rouge North Management Plan,the Bob Hunter Memorial Park Plan and the plan for the East Markham lands into a consolidated plan for the national park?As the existing Rouge Park Alliance winds down at the end of July, 2012, what type of

transitional governance structure will be required, if any, and what might the role of TRCA be as the host for such a structure?

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Preliminary discussions with Parks Canada on these and many other questions and issues have begun, but in the absence of a further direction and budget allocations to Parks Canada, it is not possible to resolve them at this time. Optimistically, the federal budget scheduled for delivery on March 29,2012, will provide more direction.

Report prepared by: Brian Denney, 416-667-6290Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Brian Denney, 416-667-6290Emails: [email protected]: January 24, 2012Attachments: 2

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Attachment 1

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Attachment 2

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FROM: James W. Dillane, Director, Finance and Business Services

RE: AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSMentoring to Placement for Environmental Professionals Program (M2P)

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEThe Mentoring to Placement Program audited financial statements and Management letter for the period April 1, 2011 to November 30, 2011 are presented for Authority approval.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the Mentoring to Placement Program audited financial statements and management letter, as presented, be approved, signed by the Chair and Secretary-Treasurer of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), in accordance with the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Bridging Projects - Project Audit Guidelines.

BACKGROUNDFunded by the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (MCI), since 2009 Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has been delivering the Mentoring to Placement to assist internationally trained environmental professionals to access training and employment opportunities in their field. As part of its project audit guidelines, MCI requires Authority approval of the M2P financial statements and management letter, as attached, as verification that the financial information in the audit report is complete and accurate.

The accounting firm of Grant Thornton LLP, has completed its audit.

RATIONALEThe approval of the Statement of Revenue and Expenditures attests to the following:

Project funding has been solely applied to costs directly related to the Project;

Deferred revenue refers to receipt of cash in advance of rendering a good or service and

while initially recorded as cash coming in, is also a liability because the organization has an obligation;Funding and/or expenditures from other sources, not directly related to this project, have

not been included in the report;Reported expenditure is net of HST rebates;

Shared costs have been properly apportioned to the Project;

The Project bears full responsibility for absorbing any project deficits;

Project funds that were provided to the Project prior to their immediate need were

maintained in an interest-bearing account; andInterest earned on Project funding has been credited to the Project.

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The Authority is responsible for ensuring that management fulfills its responsibilities for financial reporting and is ultimately responsible for reviewing and approving the financial statements. The attached management letter confirms that management and the Authority have fulfilled their responsibilities, as determined in the transfer payment agreement dated May 13, 2009.

Report prepared by: Marisa Iorfida-Sdao, extension 5582Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Rocco Sgambelluri, extension 5232Emails: [email protected]: March 02, 2012Attachments: 2

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Attachment 1

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Attachment 2

Officeof theChair

March 30, 2012

Ms. Julia PembertonSenior Program AdvisorMinistry of Citizenship & ImmigrationLabour Market Integration Unit400 University Ave., 3

rd Floor

Toronto, ON M7A 2R9

Dear Ms. Pemberton:

This management representation letter is provided in connection with our audited financial statements of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s (TRCA) Mentoring to Placement Program (M2P) for the year ended November 30, 2011. The financial statements of the TRCA’s Mentoring to Placement Program are the responsibility of management and have been approved by the Authority, the board of TRCA.

The financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Policies. Management has determined that its choice of accounting policies supporting the amounts presented on the financial statements, are presented fairly, in all material respects.

TRCA maintains systems of internal accounting and administrative controls of high quality. Such systems are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial information is relevant, reliable and accurate and that TRCA’s operations are appropriately accounted for and assets are adequately safeguarded.

All transactions have been recorded in the accounting records and are reflected in the financial statements. All liabilities have been reviewed by management in consultation with its external auditor Grant Thornton LLP. There are no material liabilities or contingencies as at the date of this report.

Significant assumptions used by management in making accounting estimates, including those measured at fair value, are reasonable and approved by the Authority.

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The effects of uncorrected misstatements are immaterial, both individually and in the aggregate, to the financial statements as a whole.

This letter confirms that management and the Authority have provided: access to all information to the external auditors of which they were aware of that is relevant to the preparation of the financial statements, such as records, documentation and other matters; additional information that was requested by the external auditors for the purpose of the audit, and provided unrestricted access to persons within the entity who would be determined necessary to provide audit evidence.

The Authority is responsible for ensuring that management fulfills its responsibilities for financial reporting and is ultimately responsible for reviewing and approving the financial statements. This letter confirms that management and the Authority have fulfilled their responsibilities, as determined in the transfer payment agreement dated May 13, 2009.

_____________________________________________________Signed: Brian Denney

Chief Administrative Officer/Secretary-Treasurer

_____________________________________________________Signed: Gerri Lynn O’Connor

Chair

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FROM: Deborah Martin-Downs, Director, Ecology

RE: GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ONTARIO COALITION PROGRESS UPDATE

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEGreen Infrastructure Ontario Coalition, founded in 2009 by TRCA and partners, takes its case for green infrastructure to Queen's Park in March 2012.

RECOMMENDATION

WHEREAS Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) objectives for Healthy Rivers and Shorelines, Regional Biodiversity and Sustainable Communities are dependent on a system of natural spaces, stream corridors and green infrastructure;

AND WHEREAS green infrastructure includes natural vegetation and vegetative technologies in urban and rural settings;

AND WHEREAS TRCA has played an important role in the formation and development of the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition;

AND WHEREAS the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition has produced a report entitled "Health, Prosperity and Sustainability: The Case for Green infrastructure in Ontario" which advocates for provincial government investment and policy for green infrastructure;

THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT TRCA staff continue participating on the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition steering committee and with staff support to further explore and advocate for the legislative and policy protection for green infrastructure in Ontario;

AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority with progress as this initiative continues.

BACKGROUNDAt Authority Meeting #8/09, held on October 23, 2009, Resolution #A177/09 was approved, in part, as follows:

...THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT TRCA staff be authorized to participate on the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition Steering Committee to explore the issues of legislative and policy protection for green infrastructure in Ontario;

AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority with progress on this initiative.

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In 2009, TRCA was approached by an emerging coalition of industry groups and nongovernmental organizations to participate in defining the need for, and further developing, a proposal to the Province of Ontario for enhanced recognition and protection of green infrastructure. The Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition is a non-incorporated coalition of industry groups, nongovernmental organizations, academic institutions, educators, citizens, companies and local governments. Key partners include: Green Roofs for Healthy Cities – North America Inc., Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests (LEAF), Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association, Ontario Parks Association, Evergreen and Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA).

The mission of this group is to develop a provincial vision and associated policy recommendations to create green jobs, clean the air and water, conserve energy, improve overall health and well-being, and increase access to local food in our urban areas through significant investment in and protection of green infrastructure. Typically, the definition of ‘infrastructure’ is constructed pipes, treatment plants and roads. There is growing recognition that this traditional infrastructure is supported by green infrastructure. The Green Infrastructure Coalition seeks to expand the definition of infrastructure in Ontario to include green infrastructure - natural vegetation and vegetative technologies in urban settings such as: urban forests, greenroofs, green walls, greenspaces like turf and manicured areas, rain gardens and bioswales, community gardens, natural and engineered wetlands, stormwater ponds as well as permeable surfaces and soil that supports the vegetation. In urban landscapes, abundant, well supported and maintained green infrastructure is critical to securing ecosystem services needed for sustainable communities, an important component of the TRCA Living City Vision.

As of March 2012, representatives from seven organizations make-up the steering committee and more than 80 additional groups and companies have joined as coalition members. Workshops have been delivered in five communities across the province engaged 216 people, and an on-line survey of professionals was completed by another 200. This consultation was paired with an extensive literature review and legislative and policy scan to create a report entitled "Health, Prosperity and Sustainability: The Case for Green infrastructure in Ontario". TRCA has been pivotal in this success and has the expertise to continue our substantial role in the leadership of this coalition and movement.

A program evaluation conducted by an external consultant in early 2012 demonstrates that the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition is well-respected by professionals in related sectors, who view its continued existence as a necessity for the Province of Ontario.

Substantial in-kind contributions were made by TRCA in 2010, 2011 and early 2012 including senior staff time on the steering committee and additional staff time spent volunteering at events and reviewing a draft report.

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RATIONALEOntario has made some important progress towards a more sustainable energy industry with the Green Energy Act. Hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure investment decisions are being made to strengthen Ontario’s economy and prepare for future challenges. As it currently stands however, very little public investment and policy change is being directed towards green infrastructure at the provincial level. The coalition has invited a number of organizations to contribute to the development of a vision and scope to address real and perceived challenges for green infrastructure in the province. There is a growing recognition that green infrastructure not only performs many of the functions of gray infrastructure, it also complements it by extending the serviceable life of pavement and other built infrastructure. Moreover, green infrastructure provide numerous additional social, economic and environmental benefits. All of these benefits have been well established through research and are consistent with the mandate and The Living City Vision of TRCA. The Recent report produced by the Green Infrastructure Coalition entitled "Health, Prosperity and Sustainability: The Case for Green infrastructure in Ontario" provides a compelling rational for increased support for green infrastructure.This report provides six important recommendations as follows:

Change the government definition of public infrastructure to incorporate green 1.infrastructure;Fund green infrastructure projects through various mechanisms including fees, 2.incentives and government support;Capture opportunities to incorporate green infrastructure into existing legislation, 3.policy and programs; Improve intergovernmental coordination and cooperation regarding green 4.infrastructure; Assemble a group of experts to gather information on existing research and 5.programs, and create a comprehensive plan to eliminate barriers and develop provincial targets for green infrastructure; and Establish a research and development fund to support green infrastructure planning, 6.evaluation and implementation activities

The coalition fills an important gap by helping to promote provincial government support for local action and investment in green infrastructure. TRCA is well situated to continue to play an important role in the coalition. There are numerous synergy's between the findings of the coalition report and many existing TRCA programs including low impact development, natural systems planning and urban forest studies. TRCA's expertise in green infrastructure and sustainable city building and strong leadership skills are critical to the success of the coalition. Together we are moving towards a common goal: livable and sustainable communities.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONEThe coalition will spend much of the coming year promoting the report and moving the recommendations forward. This should provide excellent opportunities for collaboration as TRCA continues to advance its own green infrastructure initiatives including promotion of low impact development, sustainable neighbourhood retrofit action plans, sustainable technology evaluations and natural system and urban forest planning.

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The coalition will also be focusing on government relations, coalition-building and member engagement. Monthly e-updates, presentations and workshops will be delivered. In addition, the committee and staff person will develop a strong governance model as well as plans for sustainability and member engagement. The program evaluation conducted by an external consultant as part of the coalition's agreement with Ontario Trillium Foundation, will help guide our work.

FINANCIAL DETAILSThe coalition was successful in securing a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation to support activities in 2010 and 2011. The Trillium funding has been spent and the coalition is now relying on supplementary funding ($3,000 each) from steering committee members. TRCA will continue to provide funds and/or in-kind services to the coalition.

Report prepared by: Colleen Cirillo, extension 5338 Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Deb Martin-Downs, extension 5706Emails: [email protected]

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FROM: Nick Saccone, Director, Restoration Services

RE: INLAND FILLHumber Watershed Clean Topsoil Placement Projects

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUERecommends approval to place clean topsoil on TRCA-owned tablelands located at three locations within the Humber Rive watershed.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT approval be granted for placement of clean topsoil on TRCA-owned tablelands at three locations in the Humber Watershed as identified as sites 1,2 and 3 in this report dated March 2, 2012, for purposes of creating sound and visual attenuation landforms, enhancing wetland interpretive habitat features and restoring forest cover;

THAT the placement of clean topsoil be subject to all required municipal, regional and provincial approvals and appropriate consultation with the local communities;

THAT the funds received as compensation for receiving the clean topsoil be allocated to offset project costs, for future restoration and habitat enhancements within the property and for general TRCA purposes;

AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the action necessary to implement the clean topsoil placement projects including obtaining needed approvals and the signing and execution of documents.

BACKGROUNDTRCA staff has identified three (3) distinct parcels of tableland that will be enhanced by importing and strategically placing clean surplus topsoil. Each location allows unique opportunities to enhance existing conditions in terms of one or more of the following: visual and sound screening, habitat enhancement or reforestation.

TRCA staff is working to complete detailed construction implementation design drawings showing how each site will be enhanced by placing locally available clean surplus topsoil. TRCA staff have been informed that multiple sources of clean surplus topsoil will be available this spring to complete the regeneration objectives in a timely manner and generate the necessary revenue to offset project costs and future costs associated with the restoration of the site. TRCA will implement a fill quality control program to ensure and confirm that all topsoil placed on TRCA-owned property meets Ministry of Environment Residential Parkland criteria.

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Upon completion of the fill placement and grading phase of the projects and subject to available revenues, TRCA staff will implement naturalization and regeneration plantings as part of an overall restoration plan. Staff view these functions as assets to the future protection of the tablelands and its restored habitats.

TRCA archaeology staff will complete an assessment and provide clearance requirements for each site. Final design configuration for fill placement will be subject to the findings of a scheduled archaeological assessment and any recommendations to protect important cultural heritage assets. In addition, public input via local advisory committee’s will be taken into consideration prior to project implementation. Site 1The table land site is located within Claireville CA, on the west side of McVean Drive, north of Ebenezer Road in the City of Brampton. TRCA is currently working to refine a design for a 3 metre high linear berm to create a physical and visual boundary between the Claireville urban agriculture tract which will be the future site for the expansion of the Farm Start McVean Incubator Farm and the adjacent urban developments. The berm project has been has been presented at meetings of the Claireville subcommittee of the Humber Watershed Alliance and members were given the opportunity to review and comment on the berm design who supported the berm project as a means to keep intrusion away from the farm project. Additionally, staff and the Claireville subcommittee advisory committee will have an opportunity to review and comment on the detailed design drawings for the site. The structure will require approximately 40,000 cubic metres of topsoil.

Site 2The site is located along the western edge of Claireville, south of Queen Street. The site is approximately 8 hectares of open table land above the West Humber River. The site is dominated by non-native grasses, with some exotic, invasive shrubs and a few scattered tree saplings (<10%). The site is poorly drained clay soil (Peel Series).

A successful reforestation project in conjunction with topsoil placement along the western edge of Claireville Conservation Area, immediately adjacent to the industrial area along Deerhurst Drive, has a variety of potential benefits:

establishing a visual barrier and a buffer between the conservation area and heavy industry

to the west, reducing noise, dust and pollutants entering the park;

establishing a significant forest patch which would augment an existing forest stand and

improve forest connectivity.

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A topsoil placement project would represent an opportunity to address some of the reforestation challenges of this area. The site’s heavy clay soils and poor drainage contribute to poor tree survival and growth. This could be amended through the addition of at least 1.5 to 2 m of good quality fill with a composition and texture that will remain well or moderately-well drained. Also, addition of this amount of fill would eliminate the existing grass and shrub competition. Vegetation would still need to be managed for successful reforestation. However, competition control would be simplified: exposed soil would provide an opportunity for successful establishment of a desirable cover crop; and competing vegetation would initially consist primarily of annuals and not be well-established, improving management options and the likelihood of their success. Improved soil conditions and decreased competition would increase seedling growth rates, important in successfully establishing tree cover and initiating the transition to a closed canopy forest.

Staff anticipates the site could accommodate between 80,000 and 120,000 cubic metres of topsoil. Staff will need to negotiate an access agreement with a private landowner currently occupying land between Deerhurst Drive and TRCA property.

Site 3The 1.8 hectare open table land site is located on the east side of Cold Creek Road, 1.3 km north of Kirby Road in the community of Nashville, City of Vaughan.

The attached concept design illustrates how the existing table lands will be enhanced by importing and strategically placing clean surplus soil. It is the opinion of staff that this is an opportunity to create wetland and interpretive opportunities while creating the foundation for diverse habitat and public features. Upon completion of the fill placement and grading phase of the project and subject to available revenues, TRCA staff will complete site trails, plantings and associated landscaping as shown on the attached layout plan. It is anticipated that the design will accommodate approximately 60,000 cubic metres of topsoil.

RATIONALETRCA staff has completed similar projects with considerable success. Examples of these successful projects include: Kleinburg New Forest North (Hwy 27 & Islington Ave), the berm on Kortright Centre for Conservation tablelands off Pine Valley Drive; Boyd North Pit rehabilitation off Rutherford Road; berming along Intermodal Drive and Highway 407 within Claireville Conservation Area; the berming along the new Markham By-Pass east of Ninth Line; and, berming and wetland complex development at Boyd North (along Islington Avenue north of Rutherford Road).

Staff see this regeneration work as a benefit to all involved as the surplus fill along with the financial compensation will allow for the creation of habitat opportunities and public features on the property.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONESubject to Authority approval, regional and municipal approvals, archaeology clearance, Ministry of Natural Resources Species at Risk Screening and public consultation, TRCA staff will undertake the process of requesting proposals from qualified contractors to supply and place the clean topsoil and complete the projects.

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FINANCIAL DETAILSThe funds received as compensation for placement of the clean topsoil will be allocated to offset project costs, for future restoration and habitat enhancements within the property and for general TRCA purposes.

Report prepared by: David Hatton, extension 5365 Email: [email protected] Information contact: David Hatton, extension 5365 Email: [email protected]: March 2, 2012Attachments: 3

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Attachment 1

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Attachment 2

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Attachment 3

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RE: GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2011-2015Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River WatershedMaria Pandolfo, Yolanda Pandolfo, Cathy Campione, Laura Pandolfo and Guiseppe Pandolfo

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEDonation of land located west of Pine Valley Drive, north of Major Mackenzie Drive, City of Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York, under the "Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2010-2015", Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River watershed.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) accept the donation from Maria Pandolfo, Yolanda Pandolfo, Cathy Campione, Laura Pandolfo and Guiseppe Pandolfo of 13.4 hectares, (33.2 acres), more or less, consisting of an irregular shaped parcel of vacant, ecologically sensitive land being Part of Lots 23 and 24, Concession 7, City of Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York, (rear of 10390 Pine Valley Drive);

THAT an income tax receipt is to be made available to Maria Pandolfo, Yolanda Pandolfo, Cathy Campione, Laura Pandolfo and Guiseppe Pandolfo for the appraised value of the donated lands in accordance with the guidelines set out by the Canada Revenue Agency;

THAT TRCA be responsible for its own costs associated with completion of thistransaction;

THAT arrangements be made for the management and protection of the archaeological site located on the property to the satisfaction of TRCA staff;

THAT TRCA receive conveyance of the lands free from encumbrance subject to existing service easements;

THAT TRCA extend its appreciation and thanks to Maria Pandolfo, Yolanda Pandolfo, Cathy Campione, Laura Pandolfo and Guiseppe Pandolfo for their generous donation;

THAT TRCA grant a conservation easement to the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust;

THAT Gardiner Roberts LLP, be instructed to complete the transaction at the earliest possible date. All reasonable expenses incurred incidental to the closing for land transfer tax, legal costs and disbursements are to be paid;

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AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the action necessary to complete the transaction including obtaining any needed approvals and the signing and execution of documents.

BACKGROUNDResolution #A94/10 at Authority Meeting #5/10, held on June 25, 2010, approved the Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2011-2015.

The property municipally known as 10390 Pine Valley Drive has been owned by the Pandolfo family since 1980. The property is 28 hectares (70 acres) in size and the Pandolfos have decided to generously donate the rear 13.4 hectares (33.2 acres) to TRCA. The remainder of the property will be subject to a future residential development.

Approximately 77% of the donated property is forested with the remainder being naturally regenerating old farm field. Located in this former farm field is an archaeological site known as the Skandatut Site (AIGv-193). This site is located on the top of a large knoll. The knoll is completely surrounded by steep slopes with the top of the knoll being approximately 4 hectares in size. This site has been identified as a large First Nations village site dating to ca. 1580 to 1615 A.D. and is thought to be one of the last Huron-Wendat sites in this area prior to their migration to Huronia.

In consultation with TRCA staff, the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust has conducted negotiations with the property owners and their solicitor Justin Mooney of Davis LLP, Barristers and Solicitors. As a result, the owners have signed a Donation Agreement with TRCA. The Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust has requested a conservation easement in their favour registered on title.

When the appraisal process is completed pursuant to the Ecological Gift Program, TRCA will issue the ecological gift receipt for 100% value of the donation to Maria Pandolfo, Yolanda Pandolfo, Cathy Campione, Laura Pandolfo and Guiseppe Pandolfo.

Attached is a plan which shows the location of the subject lands.

RATIONALEThe subject property contains the valley corridor of Cold Creek which is a tributary of the Humber River and located in the East Humber sub-watershed. A portion of the property is designated as the Sprengel's Area Environmentally Significant Area and is located within TRCA’s Target Terrestrial Natural Heritage System. The subject property is also located adjacent to the Glassco Park property which is owned by the Ontario Heritage Trust and managed by TRCA.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONEThe necessary application to Environment Canada for designation of the property as Ecological Sensitive must be submitted. An appraisal of the donated lands must be completed and submitted to Environment Canada for approval in compliance with the Ecological Gifts Program.

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TRCA staff will work with Pandolfo, Huron-Wendat and the City of Vaughan to develop a plan for the protection and management of the archaeological site located on the property.

TAXES AND MAINTENANCEBased on TRCA's preliminary review of the environmental criteria for lands that are eligible to receive a property tax exemption under the provincial Conservation Land Tax IncentiveProgram, it would appear that a portion of the subject property would be eligible for exemption for the 2013 taxation year. The addition of the subject parcel of land will not significantly impact TRCA's maintenance costs at this location.

FINANCIAL DETAILSFunds for the costs related to this purchase are available in the TRCA land acquisition capital account.

Report prepared by: Mike Fenning, extension 5223Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Mike Fenning, extension 5223Emails: [email protected]: March 16, 2012Attachments: 1

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Attachment 1

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RE: TORONTO URBAN FARM AT BLACK CREEK PIONEER VILLAGE______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEApproval to enter into a lease agreement with Everdale Organic Farm and Environmental Learning Centre for the purpose of establishing the Toronto Urban Farm that will develop a locally based, ecologically sustainable and economically viable agricultural enterprise on Toronto and Region Conservation Authority land at Black Creek Pioneer Village.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) enter into a lease agreement with Everdale Organic Farm and Environmental Learning Centre for approximately eight acres of land and farm house (Braeburn House) located at Black Creek Pioneer Village, City of Toronto;

THAT the term of the lease agreement not exceed five years with the option of renewal;

THAT the agreement be on terms and conditions satisfactory to TRCA solicitors and staff;

AND FURTHER THAT the authorized TRCA officials be directed to take whatever action may be required to give effect thereto, including the obtaining of necessary approvals and signing and execution of any documents.

BACKGROUNDThe concept of the Toronto Urban Farm at Black Creek Pioneer Village (BCPV) was developed in 2002. Shortly thereafter, TRCA requested support from the City of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department to realize the concept. In 2004, TRCA and the City of Toronto formed a memorandum of management for eight acres of land located at the southeast corner of Jane Street and Steeles Avenue, in the City of Toronto (Attachment 1). The City was given management responsibility over this parcel of TRCA-owned land for the establishment of an organic urban farm.

Since 2004, the Toronto Urban Farm at BCPV has contributed to the local food system in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The Toronto Urban Farm has also been successful in promoting social equity and food security in one of Toronto's most vulnerable communities by:

Engaging over 100 youth and community members in urban organic farming;

Providing skills and leadership development opportunities;

Fostering greater interaction among community members;

Providing jobs and meaningful work for the local community; and

Providing increased opportunities for access to fresh and healthy foods.

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In 2010 and 2011, to help TRCA meet its 40 percent local food procurement target for its facilities, the Toronto Urban Farm supplied fresh produce to BCPV Food Services which was used in the meals served to visitors.

In 2011, as part of the City of Toronto’s 2012 operating budget process, it was recommended by City Council that the Toronto Urban Farm no longer be funded by the City of Toronto, and that the eight acre site, including Braeburn House, a heritage house located on site, formally be turned back to TRCA for future management. The farm and house were officially turned back to TRCA December 31, 2011.

Request for ProposalsThe Toronto Urban Farm provides an excellent opportunity for TRCA to demonstrate its commitment to developing sustainable communities through growing local food and community engagement. In search of a new agricultural partnership, TRCA issued a Request for Proposals on January 10, 2012 to lease the farm house and eight acres of land at BCPV. The Request for Proposals closed on January 27th, 2012. It was circulated to approximately 150 agricultural and food related organizations/individuals and was advertised in the North York Mirror and Vaughan Citizen between these dates. A total of five proposals were received. In addition, two expressions of interest were received but not considered due to the fact they did not meet the submission deadline.

The following organizations submitted a proposal for establishing a farm operation at the Toronto Urban Farm:

Summerhill Group1.Rosenkrantz Sustainable Agriculture2.The Greenhouse Eatery3.Everdale Environmental Learning Centre4.The Fresh Veggies5.

Evaluation CriteriaTRCA staff have evaluated each proposal based on five main criteria listed below:

Promote social equity, health and food security in the Jane and Finch community by

providing opportunities for increased accessibility to fresh, healthy and affordable foods; Creating jobs and meaningful work for the local community;

Provide education, skill development, training and leadership opportunities;

Help TRCA meet its local food procurement targets by providing fresh produce to BCPV

and other TRCA food services; andBuild connections between the community and TRCA programs and facilities.

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RATIONALEOf the five proposals received, representatives from three of the short-listed proposals were interviewed. TRCA staff recommends that Everdale Organic Farm and Environmental Learning Centre, a registered non-profit charitable coporation, be selected to further negotiate a lease agreement for the use of land and farm house at BCPV. Everdale Organic Farm and Learning Centre is a teaching farm located in Hillsburg, Ontario that provides hands-on, solution-based food and farming education to build and engage healthy local communities. Everdale will also investigate options to make approximately one acre at the Toronto Urban Farm accessible for garden use by the community.

Strengths of this partnership are summarized below:

Everdale's 10 year track record of delivering organic farming and successful educational

programming related to farming and local food;Everdale's existing working relationship with TRCA which dates back to the development of

a Feasibility Study for The Living City Farm at Kortright and the development of TRCA's Sustainable Near-Urban Agriculture Policy;Everdale's strong commitment to delivering TRCA's objectives (identified above); and

Strength of proposed partnerships: Everdale is committed to working with various high

profile organizations which will work together to add value to the farm project. The following is a list of proposed partners and their contributions towards the Toronto Urban Farm:

FoodShare: to offer programming that enhances community access to healthy local food.

York University: to develop an urban farming internship that could carry university credit and conduct research and assist with project monitoring.

Ryerson University: to develop an urban farming internship that could carry university credit and help organize design charrettes.

Housing Services Corp: to establish a centralized urban agriculture hub for the social housing community at the Toronto Urban Farm and utilize the farm to launch food related enterprises, leveraging existing programs in the low income community.

Fresh City Farms: to increase production capacity at the Toronto Urban Farm and provide training opportunities for new farmers.

African Food Basket: to increase education and production capacity at the Toronto Urban Farm and improve community access to affordable, culturally appropriate and healthy food.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONENegotiate a lease agreement with Everdale Organic Farm and Learning Centre;

Develop a long term action/vision plan for the farm once a lease agreement has been

negotiated;Organize an end of season harvest event;

Develop a food procurement strategy for BCPV Food Services; and

Pilot a Farmers' Market at BCPV for this season.

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FINANCIAL DETAILSThe proponent is expected to finance the operation. TRCA will provide in-kind services related to project planning, marketing and promotion.

Report prepared by: Sonia Dhir, extension 5291 Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Gary Wilkins, extension 5291 Emails: [email protected]: March 19, 2012Attachments:1

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Attachment 1

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RE: FREEDOM OF INFORMATIONSummary of 2011 Requests and Appointment of Information and Privacy Officer

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUEProvides a summary of requests under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and advises of the appointment of Information and Privacy Officer.

RECOMMENDATION

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT the report dated February 29, 2012, on summary of 2011 freedom of information requests and appointment of information and privacy officer, be received.

BACKGROUNDTRCA is subject to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Staff reports to the Information and Privacy Commission annually on the number and type of applications received each year. The following summarizes activity in 2011.

RATIONALEIn 2011, TRCA received 48 requests for information under the Act. This continues the pattern of an increasing number of requests over the past 10 years. In the period 2001 to 2006, TRCA received fewer than 5 requests each year. From 2007 to 2011, the average was 23 annually. In 2012, the trend to increasing requests seems likely to continue as there have been 12 requests in the first two months this year.

All of the requests related to "general records" as opposed to "personal information". The latter relates to requests by individuals about information that TRCA has concerning the applicant personally. Of the 48 requests for general information, 10 requests were from individuals and 38 from businesses.

Of the 48 requests received in 2011, 83% were responded to within the 30 day limit required under the Act. Five requests took between 31 and 60 days and three requests took 61 to 90 days. Extensions were needed in most cases because of the volume of records to be searched and prepared. In one case, a third party circulation delayed TRCA's response.

Of the 48 requests, all information was disclosed in 16 situations. In 25 situations, no records existed so there was no disclosure. In 7 situations, the request was withdrawn or abandoned. In 8 of the 16 situations where all the general information was disclosed, personal information was removed for privacy purposes. Examples of the personal privacy exemption being applied include copies of cheques which may be on file and personal telephone numbers.

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In 2011, about 50% of requests were from planning, environmental and technical consultants seeking information about specific properties. This is an increasing trend. In many cases, no records existed and the applicants were so advised. Also, TRCA receives many requests about permit and planning applications which, once approved by the Executive Committee, are a matter of public record.

The Act requires that a $5 fee be included with each application. Also, the Act allows TRCA to charge for photo copies (20 cents/page) and search and preparation time ($30/hour). In 2011, TRCA collected fees of $1,445.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONERequests under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy(FOI) Act are dealt with by the Director, Finance and Business Services, who is designated as TRCA's Information and Privacy Officer. TRCA is also subject to the provisions of the federal Personal information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

In 2011, responsibility for TRCA's records management function was moved from Finance and Business Services Division to the CAO's Office. The Manager, Chair and CAO's Office, is responsible for the minutes of board meetings and other official records of TRCA. With the retirement of the Manager, Corporate Records, staff chose to reorganize and move responsibility for the records function to the Manager, Chair and CAO's Office.

Administration of the FOI Act is part of the corporate records function and as such has been moved to the CAO's Office. Under the FOI Act, the "head" of an organization is responsible for the FOI function and may delegate that responsibility. The Chair of TRCA is the "head" and, effective April 1, 2012, has designated the Manager, Chair and CAO's Office, as TRCA's Information and Privacy Officer, the person responsible for dealing with FOI requests on behalf of TRCA.

Report prepared by: Jim Dillane, extension 6292Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Jim Dillane, extension 6292Emails: [email protected]: February 29, 2012

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FROM: Deborah Martin-Downs, Director, Ecology

RE: WEST NILE VIRUS PROGRAMAnnual Report - West Nile Virus Vector Mosquito Larval Monitoring and Surveillance - 2011

______________________________________________________________________________KEY ISSUESummary of the 2011 West Nile Virus Monitoring and Surveillance program and receipt of the annual report 'West Nile Virus Vector Mosquito Larval Monitoring and Surveillance - 2011'.

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the annual report 'West Nile Virus Vector Mosquito Larval Monitoring and Surveillance - 2011' be received;

THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff be directed to circulate the annual report to the public health units of the regional municipalities of Peel, Durham, York and the City of Toronto;

THAT TRCA staff be directed to continue to participate in the Regional West Nile Virus Advisory Committees for Peel, Durham, York and the City of Toronto;

AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff be directed to continue West Nile virus larval mosquito monitoring in wetlands and stormwater management ponds on TRCA-owned land during the 2012 summer season.

BACKGROUNDWest Nile virus (WNV) is a seasonal disease known in Canada since 2001. Two key mosquito species, Culex pipiens and Culex restuans, are the primary species responsible for spreading the disease to humans in Ontario. The level of WNV activity and risk of exposure depends on the number of infected bird hosts and WNV positive pools of vector mosquitoes in a given year. It is difficult to predict the vector mosquito activity for a given year since their population dynamics change from year to year, vary across jurisdictions and are influenced by a number of environmental factors. WNV management is focused on prevention and control and is collectively undertaken by the provincial, regional and municipal health agencies in Ontario.

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As a major owner of natural lands, including substantial wetland areas, the TRCA has had an interest in the WNV issue. As a measure of due diligence and at the request of regional health units, TRCA has been monitoring larval mosquito populations in TRCA's natural wetlands and selected stormwater management ponds (SWMPs) since 2003. The objective of the monitoring has been to identify preferred breeding sites of the two key mosquito species, estimate the level of risk, and reduce human exposure to WNV by taking appropriate measures like housekeeping activities (grading small depressions, garbage removal) and larviciding, if necessary. TRCA's WNV program activities include public education and outreach activities, collaborating with the regional health units and conducting mosquito larval surveillance on TRCA-owned lands. The data collected over the years has been beneficial in guiding management decisions related to wetland protection and creation, land management planning and has assisted the public health agencies with their public education and outreach campaigns.

At Authority Meeting #4/11, held on April 29, 2011,Resolution #A71/11 was approved, in part, as follows:

THAT the Annual Report on West Nile Virus Vector Monitoring and Surveillance in Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) wetlands and stormwater management ponds in 2010 be received;...

...AND FURTHER THAT TRCA staff be directed to continue West Nile Virus (WNV) vector larval mosquito monitoring in wetlands and stormwater management ponds on TRCA owned land during the 2011 summer season.

As per the Authority Resolution, the WNV surveillance and monitoring activities were again implemented in 2011. The following summarizes these activities and results:

Summary of WNV Program Activities for 2011TRCA's WNV program continued to implement its three-pronged approach including public

education and outreach, collaboration with public health units, and larval monitoring and surveillance on TRCA properties.

Public education and outreach activities in 2011 focused on updating and distribution of

WNV related information and addressing public and staff inquires on WNV and standing water complaints. TRCA received a total of 10 standing water complaints in 2011, of which 7 were associated with TRCA properties. The complaint sites associated with TRCA properties were investigated and monitored throughout the field season, however, none of these sites required larvicide treatment.

Collaborations with regional health units required TRCA staff to attend regional health WNV

committee meetings, share collected WNV data, and notify WNV vector hotspots.

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TRCA received an Order on April 7, 2011 from the Medical Officer of Peel Regional Health

under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.7 to assist with the implementation of control measures to reduce the number of mosquito larvae in the Heart Lake Wetland Complex in Brampton. The Heart Lake Wetland Complex continued to be an area of concern for WNV; in total three sites within the Heart Lake Wetland Complex were treated with larvicide by the Peel Health Department in 2011. It is anticipated that TRCA will receive another Order from the Peel Regional Medical Officer in 2012.

WNV larval surveillance and monitoring was undertaken in 37 wetlands and 9 SWMPs

across the TRCA jurisdiction from May 30th to September 6th, 2011 to identify mosquito species distribution, abundance and population composition. Each site was sampled four times during the field season. For each site an assessment of the densities of each mosquito species was conducted.

Summary of Results Obtained in 2011The sampling season in 2011 yielded a total of 8233 larvae which is the second highest number since the program started (the highest number was recorded in 2010 with 9398 larvae). A total of 6784 mosquito larvae were collected from wetlands and 1449 mosquito larvae were collected from SWMPs. As in previous years the wetland habitats sampled supported a greater diversity of the mosquito population with 13 different mosquito species being found in wetlands while only 7 species were found in SWMPs.

Among the wetland sites, 53.9% of the larvae collected were non-vector species (i.e. the species generally not responsible for spreading the virus to humans), while the remaining 46.1% were vectors (i.e. species most commonly found to spread the virus to humans). The predominant non-vector species was Culex territans (53.1%), and the predominant vector species was Culex pipiens (31.4%). The percentage of Culex pipiens collected from the wetlands was higher in 2011, however this increase was influenced by an exceptionally high number of Culex pipiens collected on August 2, 2011 at Grenadier Pond in High Park (this was 19.7% of total number of larvae collected in all wetlands combined). If the Grenadier Pond site was removed from the data set, a higher majority (71.5%) of the larvae collected from wetlands would be non-vector species. The exceptionally dry summer in 2011 also contributed to the fact that many Culex pipiens were collected. Due to lack of precipitation, small wetland habitats turned into shallow, warm, and organic-rich pools of water which are favorable breeding sites for this species. WNV risk assessment resulted in three sites being identified as areas of concern for WNV vector larvae among the wetland sites. Larvicide treatments were applied to two of these sites including Grenadier Pond in High Park and Lacey's Pond in Altona Forest. One site (Goldfish Pond at Tommy Thompson Park) was not treated due to its sensitivity (presence of species at risk) and the late seasonal timing of its discovery as a "hotspot".

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Among the SWMPs sites, vector species comprised 83.5% of the mosquito population, while the non-vectors made up the remaining 16.5%. Culex pipiens which represented 73.6% of the mosquito larvae collected was the predominant vector species found in SWMPs. Culex territans, the only non-vector species found in the SWMPs, comprised 16.5% of the mosquito community. WNV risk assessment resulted in two SWMP sites (SWMP 279.1 and L’Amoreaux Park North Pond) being identified as areas of concern for WNV vector larvae. The SWMP 279.1 was larvicided by Durham Public Health Unit and L’Amoreaux Park North Pond was treated by the Public Health Division in the City of Toronto.

Overall, the results from 2011 monitoring and surveillance have indicated that localized WNV hotspots continue to occur on TRCA properties. From 2003 to 2010, the numbers of human WNV cases have declined in Ontario. However, in 2011, the number of human WNV cases in Ontario rose to 64 compared to 1 case in 2010, 4 cases in 2009 and 3 cases in 2008. Within the TRCA jurisdiction, there were 30 reported human WNV cases in 2011: 24 cases in the City of Toronto, 3 cases in Peel Region, 2 cases in Durham Region, and 1 case in York Region. It is difficult to predict when and where a WNV vector hotspot might occur, or the severity of exposure to humans in a given year. Therefore, having a larval monitoring program in place is crucial for identifying potential risk on TRCA properties. Risk prevention relies on identifying the areas of concern for WNV and following up with proper intervention measures.

One notable finding in 2011 was the presence of a non-vector species, Uranotaenia sapphirina, which is considered rare in southern Ontario. This species is generally found in the eastern United States but is appearing more in our samples, with the first record being found in 2010.

A copy of the Annual Report: "West Nile Virus Vector Mosquito Larval Monitoring and Surveillance - 2011" will be available on the corporate website (www.trca.on.ca; key word: West Nile Virus) for reference. Copies will be provided to members upon request.

RATIONALEThe overarching rationale for undertaking WNV larval monitoring is that a variety of wetland habitats on TRCA properties such as marshes, woodland pools and ponds have the potential to provide breeding habitats for mosquitoes because of the permanent availability of water. As the largest landowner in the Toronto region, TRCA has used the WNV monitoring and surveillance activities as a means of ensuring “due diligence” and to proactively manage the WNV issue on their properties. The approach taken – to identify the presence of WNV associated mosquito species has ensured that larvicide has only been applied to sites with potential risk. Based on the number of sites assessed by TRCA on an annual basis, this approach has been found to be a cost effective alternative to wider scale preventative larvicide application.

Staff anticipate continued requests from the public for actions to be taken to address perceived mosquito breeding in standing water on TRCA-owned lands that are close to their properties, and from the regional health departments to help determine the sensitivity of natural areas for the purpose of larviciding. TRCA’s WNV program also helps to identify vector numbers and high density sites. The identification of isolated sites with high density of mosquitoes associated with WNV in wetlands and stormwater ponds warrants the ongoing annual monitoring and surveillance program.

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Further, the data collected through the program has been received with interest from researchers at York University who have been involved with modeling WNV occurrence with respect to various factors including climate change.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONEStaff will continue surveillance activities at approximately 45 sites on TRCA-owned lands and will continue to liaise with regional health units and participate in WNV advisory committees throughout the 2012 field season. Staff will continue to respond to public inquiries on WNV and reports of standing water on TRCA property, in addition to providing general information for both the public and staff on WNV. Standing water complaints will be reviewed and addressed following the TRCA's Standing Water Complaint Procedure. Staff will continue to identify sites of concern for WNV on TRCA property through larval monitoring and advise other TRCA Sections on maintenance or management duties required to reduce the number of potential breeding sites for mosquitoes.

FINANCIAL DETAILSFunding for the 2012 WNV surveillance and monitoring activities is available under the Regional Watershed Monitoring Program with capital funding support from the regions of York, Peel and Durham and the City of Toronto. A small amount of revenue is generated (approximately $1200) by the program on an annual basis through the provision of mosquito larvae identification training for Regional Health staff.

Overall this funding will be sufficient to support the 2012 surveillance field work and staff support to liaise with the regional health units and to respond to complaints. The funding is not however expected to cover any costs associated with control measures if deemed necessary. If larviciding or site remediation is required as a control measure, the associated costs will be covered through TRCA Land Management funding.

Report prepared by: Scott Jarvie, extension 5312Emails: [email protected] Information contact: Jessica Fang, extension 5665Emails: [email protected]: January 27, 2012