HomeMy WebLinkAboutPSD-005-01
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~ THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPAt..ITY OF CLARINGTON
REPORT
Meeting:
General Purpose and Administration Committee
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File # /OJ
Res. #01/f--4-lb -1) {
Date:
Tuesday, September 4, 2001
Report #:
PSD-005-01
By-law #
Subject:
THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE - TRI-REGIONAL REPORT
DATED MAY 2001
FILE: PLN 17.8.9
Recommendations:
It is respectfully recommended that the General Purpose and Administration Committee
recommend to Council the following:
1. THAT Report PSD-005-01 be received;
2. THAT PSD-005-01 be endorsed as the comments of the Municipality of Clarington
on the document entitled "The Oak Ridges Moraine: Proposals for the Protection
and Management of a Unique Landscape, dated May 2001;
3. THAT the Durham Region Planning Department be forwarded a copy of this report
and be advised of Council's decision on this matter.
1.0 PURPOSE OF REPORT
In May 2001, the Regions of Durham. York and Peel issued a report entitled
"The Oak Ridges Moraine: Proposals for the Protection and Management of a
Unique Landscape". The report is the result of is a joint project initiated in 1998
by the three Regions and their respective Conservation Authorities to identify
issues and provide a strategy for protecting the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM).
The Municipality has been requested to review and provide comment on the Tri-
Regional report. Due to time constraints, staff's comments on the report were
forwarded to the Region for its consideration in July. This report is intended to
confirm staff's position.
2.0 BACKGROUND
The Oak Ridges Moraine is a distinctive land form feature of sand and gravel
hills stretching 160 kilometres from the Trent River in the east to the Niagara
Escarpment in the west. It is of significance to the Greater Toronto Area as it
performs essential ecological functions such as providing and maintaining
healthy water resources and natural habitat for plant and animal life.
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In recognition of the importance of the ORM, a number of initiatives have been
undertaken over the last ten years to protect it from degradation. These
initiatives include:
. 1991 Oak Ridges Moraine Interim Implementation Guidelines;
. 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy;
. 1997 Provincial Policy Statement (PPS).
In addition, a number of municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area, including
Clarington, have adopted policies governing the protection of the ORM through
their Official Plans. Nevertheless, the level of protection varies across the
Greater Toronto Area as there is no coordinated and consistent strategy to
protect and enhance the ORM in its entirety.
The report prepared by the three Regions draws upon the previous initiatives to
propose a coordinated strategy for the protection of the ORM.
A total of six public information meetings were held across the Moraine to obtain
public input on the Tri-Region Report. The meeting held in Enniskillen on June
26, 2001 was attended by approximately 28 people, including staff from the
Clarington Planning Services Department.
3.0 COMMENTS
The Municipality of Clarington welcomes the Regional initiative and the
development of a consistent approach to the protection and management of the
Oak Ridges Moraine. Staff agree with the four principles and assumptions set
out in Section 1.4 of the report which are as follows:
The Oak Ridges Moraine:
. is one interrelated natural heritage system that is an integral part of the
quality of life in the Greater Toronto Area and beyond;
. requires a co-ordinated multiparty effort to ensure a consistent
approach for protection and enhancement;
. is a complex combination of geology, flora, fauna, and water systems
that requires cautious, prudent long-term stewardship; and
. requires additional scientific research and data co-ordination.
In general, staff also agree with the recommended directions pertaining to the
four major topics contained in the report namely: groundwater management,
natural heritage, policy and land securement.
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REPORT: PSD-005-01
PAGE 3
Notwithstanding our support, we have a number of comments which may help to
strengthen and clarify the direction provided in the report. These are discussed
below.
3.1 General
The Oak Ridges Moraine Report identifies a number of conservation authorities
and municipalities located outside of the three Regions as being "contributing
agencies" to the preparation of the report. However, it is not clear what role
these agencies would have in the development and implementation of any
comprehensive initiative for the Moraine including whether they would be
considered as partners for the purposes of funding. Given that significant
portions of the Moraine extend outside of the Greater Toronto Area, the full
involvement of all municipalities and conservation authorities located on the
Moraine is essential to the success of the Oak Ridges Moraine initiative.
The Report favours amending the Provincial Policy Statement to achieve
protection of the Oak Ridges Moraine and its natural heritage features and
ecological functions. There are advantages to proceeding with this option,
including greater flexibility and autonomy for local planning agencies. However,
the authority of the Provincial Policy Statement to control land uses such as
aggregate extraction and agriculture that are regulated by specific provincial
legislation is somewhat limited. Accordingly, the Report should suggest a range
of options for achieving the protection of the Moraine, and provide a discussion
on the advantages and disadvantages of each option. For example, the 1994
draft Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy also suggested new legislation or a provincial
plan under the Planning Act as possible implementation mechanisms.
The development and maintenance of an effective groundwater management
data system and a natural heritage data management strategy could require a
significant financial and staff commitment by the participating agencies. As well,
the proposed land acquisition fund for the Moraine could drain municipal funds
away from land acquisition for other priority areas such as the Lake
Ontario Waterfront and municipal parks. Adequate financial support from
the provincial government will be necessary in order for a comprehensive
Oak Ridges Moraine strategy to be effectively implemented.
3.2 Groundwater Manaaement
The Municipality supports the development and maintenance of a co-ordinated
groundwater management strategy and the creation of common standards for
the collection of data as suggested in the report. However, given the complexity
and potential volume of groundwater data, the Report should define an
appropriate and workable level for the collection of groundwater data, similar to
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REPORT: PSD-005-01
PAGE 4
the approach being proposed for the management of natural heritage data. In
addition, the Report should discuss possible mechanisms to address and rectify
any groundwater quality or quantity problems that are identified through
monitoring.
The Municipality also supports, in principle, the drafting of model Official Plan
policies for groundwater management. Such an approach would facilitate the
consistent management of the Moraine's groundwater resources across all
jurisdictions. However, these policies should be sufficiently flexible to recognize
the individual circumstances of the various municipalities across the Moraine.
3.3 Natural Heritaae Data Manaaement
The Report proposes the creation of a natural heritage data management
system for the ORM and suggests the use of the Ecological Land Classification
(ELC) system as the standard for the collection and management of natural
heritage data.
The Municipality does not object to the use of the Ecological Land Classification
(ELC) system as the standard for the collection and management of natural
heritage data. As noted in the Report, this system has a strong scientific basis
and a history of accepted use. However, the scope of the ELC system is
somewhat limited in that it only provides a description of a natural feature and
does not provide an analysis of its ecological functions.
3.4 Policv
As noted earlier, harmonized Official Plan policies for the Oak Ridges Moraine,
as suggested in the Report, would facilitate a common approach to the
protection and management of the Moraine, provided the policies are sufficiently
flexible to recognize the individual circumstances of each municipality.
With respect to the review of development applications, a standardized approach
for the preparation of Environmental Impact Studies, including the criteria to be
examined, would be beneficial. Clarington's approach to the preparation of such
studies, whereby the Municipality retains the consultant to undertake the study at
the expense of the applicant, may be acceptable.
The Report discusses landform conservation, but does not examine in detail the
effect of aggregate extraction operations on the Oak Ridges Moraine. Policies in
local and Regional Official Plans should specifically address how the
rehabilitation of extraction operations could complement the landform character
of the Moraine, including the preparation of area wide comprehensive
rehabilitation plans.
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REPORT: PSD-005-01
PAGE 5
3.5 Land Securement
A land securement strategy is seen as critical for the protection of the key natural
heritage features, functions and attributes of the Moraine. The proposed tools
for land securement include planning policies, stewardships, monitoring and
acquisition through bequests, easements, donations or purchase. While staff
support the land securement proposal, it should be cautioned that any land
acquisition fund could drain municipal funds away from other priority areas such
as Lake Ontario Waterfront and municipal parks. It is imperative that adequate
financial support from the provincial government be available to facilitate the
effective implementation of a comprehensive Oak Ridges Moraine strategy.
4.0 CONCLUSION
Staff commends the three Regions and their partners for undertaking the
initiative towards a co-ordinated approach for the protection of the ecological
integrity of the Oak Ridges Moraine. While staff support the strategic directions
presented in the report, staff also believes that the provincial involvement in
terms of policy and financial support is critical for the effective implementation of
the strategies.
In addition, further clarification is required regarding the roles of the various
levels of governments and the conservation authorities.
The Provincial Govemment recently launched its own initiative on the Oak
Ridges Moraine. On August 14, 2001, the Minister of Municipal Affairs released
a discussion paper entitled "Share Your Vision for the Oak Ridges Moraine".
Comments on the paper are to be submitted to thee Province by September 14,
2001. The Municipality's comments on the Province's report are provided in
Report PSD-005-01.
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REPORT: PSD-005-01
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Respectfully submitted,
Reviewed by,
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avid J. Crome, M.C.I.P., RP. .
Director of Planning Services Department
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Franklin Wu, M.C.I.P., RP.P.
Chief Administrative Officer.
JAS*BN*DC*df
16 August 2001
Attachment 1: The Oak Ridges Moraine: Proposals for the Protection and Management
of a Unique Landscape
Interested parties to be notified of Council and Committee's decision:
Alex Georgieff
Commissioner of Planning
Region of Durham Planning Department
1615 Dundas Street East
Lang Tower, West Bldg., 4th Floor, Whitby Mall
WHITBY, Ontario
L1N 6A3
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of a Unique Landscape
MAY,2001
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PR()TFCTION AND MANAGEMENT OF A UNiQUE LANDSC.L..PE
The Oak Ridges Moraine:
Proposals for the Protection and Management of a Unique Landsape
This' report has been prepared jointly by the Regional Municipalities of Durham, Peel, and York
together with our partner Conservation Authorities and municipalities on the Oak Ridges Moraine.
The recommendations in this report are intended to improve our understanding of the Moraine and
to strengthen existing policy in our Official Plans. The protection and enhancement of the unique land-
scape is vital to maintaining our quality of life. We can only be successful in this goal with your input
and support.
~~
Nick Tunnacliffe
Planning Commissioner
Regional Municipality of Peel
Alexander L. Georgieff
Planning Commissioner
Regional Municipality of Durham
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Bryan Tuckey
Planning Commissioner
Regional Municipality of York
Received and released for Public consultation by the Planning Committee and/or Councils of the Region of Durham,
Region of Peel and Region of York on May 10, 200 I.
The public and stakeholders ore invited to attend the public open houses and information meetings listed in the sidebar.
. June 19,2001
D~ G.W. William Secondary School,
Dunning Ave., Aurora
Kmg City School.
200 I King Rood. City
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StouffVille District Secondary School,
183 Bramble Cr. Stouffille
All Meetings
6:30 to 7:00 p.m. Open House
7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Informadon Meeting
"Exception 5;30 to 6:00 p.m. Open House
6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Information Meeting
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Introduction
1.1. Background
1.2. Issues
1.3. The Oak Ridges Moraine Partnership
1.4. Prfnciples
1.5. A Call to Action
Chapter 2 Groundwater Management
2.1. Background
2.2. Issues
2.3. Analysis
2.4. Strategic Directions
Chapter 3 Natural Heritage Data Management
3.1. Background
3.2, Issues
3.3. Analysis
3.4. Strategic Directions
Chapter 4 Polley
4.1. Background
4.2. Policy Context
4.3. Regional Polley Context
4.4. Polley Issues and Analysis
4.5. Strategic Directions
Chapter 5 Land Securement
5.2. Background
5.2. Issues
5.3. Analysis
5.4. Strategic Directions
Chapter 6 Next Steps
6.1. Strategic Directions
6.2. Publlc Input
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IL-. Table of Contents
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Executive Summary 4
i Introduction 5
, 1. 1. Background 5
1. 2. Issues 6
~ 1.3. The Oak Ridges Moraine Partnership 6
1.4. Principles 7
; 1.5. A Call to Action 8
.
. Chapter 2 Groundwater Management 9
. 2.1. Background 9
. 2.2. Issues 12
2.3. Analysis 14
. 2.4. Strategic Directions 15
.
. Chapter 3 Natural Heritage Data Management 17
. 3.1. Background 17
. 3.2. Issues 18
3.3. Analysis 18
. 3.4. Strategic Directions 21
Chapter 4 Policy 23
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4.1. Background 23
. 4.2. Policy Context 23
4,3. Regional Policy Context 24
. 4.4. Policy Issues and Analysis 27
4.5. Strategic Directions 30
. Chapter 5 Land Securement 33
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. 5.1. Background 33
. 5.2. Issues 33
5,3. Analysis 34
5.4. Strategic Directions 37
. Chapter 6 Next Steps 40
.
. 6.1. Strategic Directions 40
. 6.2. Public Input 40
j 6.3. Role of Municipalities and Conservation Authorities 41
6.4. Role of the Province 41
i 6.5. Continued Monitoring 42
6.6. Conclusion 42
j Appendix A . Contributing Agencies 43
j Appendix B - How to Contact Us 44
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ERRATA
This page should be substituted for
the Table of Contents printed In the
draft report entitled "The Oak
Ridges Moraine - Proposals for the
Protection and Management of a
Unique Landscape, May 200 I",
We regret this inconvenience.
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THE 0.'\1' ~-~;C'('E';; MO'-'A.INC
. The Oak Ridges Moraine is a complex system of natural heritage features, with significant ecologicai
functions that are essential to our quality of life and economy.
A partnership led by Durham, Peel and York Regions and including, nine Conservation Authorities,
five counties, and other stakeholders have come together to recommend a practical action plan to
protect and enhance the Oak Ridges Moraine.
. This approach builds on existing Regional Official Plans utilizing the 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine
strategy.
. Strategic directions are proposed in four areas: groundwater management, natural heritage data
management, policy, and land securement.
. A Mora;ne-wide approach to improving groundwater data and understanding will support better
land use decisions.
. A Regionally led, co-ordinated natural heritage data management system is recommended, which
will require common data standards, improved Moraine-wide mapping, analysis on the state of the
Moraine and effective monitoring.
Regional Official Plan policies should be co-ordinated and strengthened by filling gaps in five key
policy areas: tableland woodlots, functional corridors and linkages, minimum ecological buffers,
groundwater protection and landform conservation.
. The 1997 Provincial Policy Statement should be revised to strengthen natural heritage policies and
recognize the Oak Ridges Moraine.
. A co-ordinated Land Securement Strategy is proposed, using po.licy, stewardship, monitoring and
acquisition to protect the Moraine.
. Improved policies are not enough. Funding of data systems and land securement by all parties is
required.
Together we can achieve much more effective protection and enhancement of the Oak Ridges
Moraine. Now is the time to act.
A symposium and a series of public meetings on the recommended approach are proposed for June
2001.
. Input from the public and stakeholders will help refine the strategic directions in this report and
shape recommendations to the Durham, Peel and York Regional Councils.
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PHOTECTION AND MANAGEMENT O~ A UNIQUe: L,A.NDSCAPE
6.3. Role of Municipalities and Conservation Authorities
6.4. Role of the Province .
6.5. Continued Monitoring
6.6. Conclusion
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Appendix A - Contributing Agencies
Appendix B . How to Contact Us
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Introduction
The Oak Ridges MOl'aine is considered an important part of the Greater Toronto Area landscape. It is
a dIStinct landfol'm feature, performing essential ecological functions including the provision and main-
tenance of gmundwater resources and natural habitat. The Moraine occupies approximately 21% of
the total combined land area for the Regional Municipalities of Durham, Peel, and York.
The Moralllc extends some 160 kilometres in total from the Niagara Escarpment in the west to
Trenton 111 the cast. Along its length the Oak Ridges Moraine varies in width from 3 to 23 kilometres,
The Moraine fnnerions as the drainage divide between lake Ontario to the south and lake Simcoe
and the Kawanha Lakes to the north.
A vital pan of the Greater Toronto Area's character, the Oak Ridges Moraine is a vast water reser-
vall' and the headwaters of most of our rivers, and it supports the most extensive and diverse wildlife
habitat in the G,'eater Toronto Area. The Moraine also supports a wide variety of uses including agri-
cultul'e, l'ecre;1lI0n, aggregate extraction, golf courses, hamlets, villages and urban areas. In large part
because of ItS l1;1tlll'al al'eas, vistas and views, and the strategic location, the Oak Ridges Moraine is
also subject [0 a great deal of development pressure.
Desp!te good !mentions, there is no co-ordinated and consistent strategy to protect and enhance the
Oak Ridges MO!'allle, This report proposes strategic directions with specific responsibilities for regional
govemmems, (oumies, Conservation Authorities, the Province of Ontario and other stakeholders.
1,1. Background
In 1998, Durham, Peel and York Regional Councils directed their respective staffs to co-ordinate a
Joint long,te!'m stntegy for the Oak Ridges Moraine. The resulting September 1999 discussion paper,
"The Oak Ridges Moraine: Towards a Long Term Strategy," described the background, history, and
Impol'tance of the, Oak Ridges Moraine, and discussed in detail the current policy context, the state of
natural hemage and hydrogeological data, and land securement programs.
The current policy framework for the Oak Ridges Moraine includes a wide variety of documents,
Including:
1991 Oak Ridges Moraine Interim Implementation Guidelines!
1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy'
1997 ProvinCIal Policy Statement (PPS)'
Source: Ganaraska Region Conservation
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. Regional Official Plans for Durham Peel and York" as well as numerous local official plans
The existing policy framework needs to be co-ordinated and strengthened in order to provide long,
term protection and enhancement of the Oak Ridges Moraine. There was consensus around the 1994
draft "Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy:' The 1994 draft strategy has been used in the preparation of this
report as a basis for examining the existing policy framework.
1.2. Issues
A number of issues are addressed in this report:
increased development pressures;
. confusing and sometimes conflicting natural heritage protection policies and implementation;
natural heritage and hydrogeological data is abundant but often dated, unconsolidated and difficult
to obtain; and
. the absence of a co-ordinated and funded land securement strategy.
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1.3. The Oak Ridges Moraine Partnership
The Oak Ridges Moraine is a vast geographical feature that spans numerous municipal. regional and
Conservation Authority jurisdictions. Historically these jurisdictions have worked independentiy. This
report is the result of a joint effort to create a coherent strategic direction. The preparation of the
paper was co-ordinated by the Durham, Peel and York Regions with extensive input from nine
Conservation Authorities. adjacent upper tier municipalities, and provincial staff.
The Oak Ridges Moraine partnership has invested a great deal of time and effort to identify issues.
analyse options, and propose practical strategic directions.
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1.4. Principles
Public and Stakeholder input has made it clear that a number of principles and assumptions are gener-
ally agreed upon. The Oak Ridges Moraine:
is one interrelated natural heritage system that is an integral part of the quality of life in the
Greater Toronto Area and beyond:
requires a co-ordinated multiparty effort to ensure a consistent approach for protection and
enhancement:
. is a complex combination of geology, flora, fauna, and water systems that requires cautious, prudent
long-term stewardship; and
requires additional scientific research and data co-ordination.
't, Strategic Directians
The report is divided into four chapters containing background, analysis, and practical strategic direc-
tions for each of the following areas.
-,. Groundwater Management
The Oak Ridges Moraine acts as a storage reservoir for groundwater, which discharges and feeds our
streams, rivers and lakes and supplies clean drinking water to residents. Chapter 2 identifies the inter-
relationship between groundwater and surface-water features and functions and proposes a co-ordi-
nated and consolidated approach to gathering, analysing and managing hydrogeological data. Better
information will help create a clear understanding of the sensitivities of these water systems.
-'7> Natural Heritage Data Management
The need for a co-ordinated approach for data management was advocated in "The Oak Ridges
Moraine:Towards a Long-term Strategy" (1999). Chapter 3 proposes strategic directions to create a
co-ordinated natural heritage data management system for the Oak Ridges Moraine that will allow us
to better analyse and understand the complexities and sensitivity of the Moraine.
" Policy
Using a natural heritage policy matrix as an analytical tool, Chapter 4 summarizes required data
improvements, consistency issues, data gaps and implementation problems that exist in current policy.
The approach builds on existing policy in Regional Official Plans. The 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine
Strategy was used as a basis for policy refinement. The strategic directions identified'in this report
should be valid for all natural heritage areas of Ontario not just for.the Oak Ridges Moraine.
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* Land Securement
The purpose of a land securement strategy is to define a consistent, co-ordinated apprqach to secure-
ment. Chapter 5 outlines the broad range of securement tools available, which require varying degrees
of resource and co-ordination. Land securement is necessary to protect and enhance the core features
and functions of the Oak Ridges Moraine.
1.5. A Call to Action
This report is intended to focus public and stakeholder debate on practical actions that can be imple-
mented to protect and enhance the Oak Ridges Moraine. Now is the time to expand our partnership
to include the public and ali stakeholders.
The Partnership recommends building on existing policy, data and initiatives to protect and enhance
the Oak Ridges Moraine. Public input is needed to refine the strategic directions identified here. In
June 200 I a symposium on these Oak Ridges Moraine strategic directions and a series of public meet-
ings will be held to focus on this objective. Stakeholders are invited to respond in writing, via the
Internet or directly to the staff of the Regions.
This input will be used to fine-tune the strategic directions and prepare recommendations to the
Regional Councils of Durham, Peei and York. Other'Oak Ridges Moraine municipalities and
Conservation Authorities have been invited to endorse this approach.
I "Implementation Guidelines: Provincial Interest on the Oak Ridges Moraine Area of the Greater Tor-onto AreQ," June /99/, Province of Ontario.
1 The Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy for the Greater Toronto Area: An .Ecosystem Approach far Long-Term Protection and Monogement November
J 994. Province of Ontario.
l "Policy Statement [on land use planning and development] (issued under Seaion 3 of the Planning Act). /997.
f Regional Official Plans for Durham Pee/and York
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2.1. Background
Water is an essential component of the Oak Ridges Moraine. Much is known about our rivers, lakes
and wetlands. The missing link in understanding and policy regarding our water systems is hydrogeol-
ogy: or our groundwater system and its links With the surface-water system. This chapter focuses on
the Oak Ridges Moraine groundwater system and its surface-water interactions.
2.1.1. Hydrogeology
Hydrogeology is a science that describes the movement of water beneath the ground (groundwater)
and its interaction or connection with water moving upon the surface in rivers, lakes and streams, and
over land. Rainfall and snowmelt seep into the groundwater system recharging it. The amount of infil-
tration is controlled by factors such as soils or geologic materials, the slope of the ground surface, and
the type of vegetation present.
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Sow'ce: Lou Wise. Aerogf-aphic
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Groundwater seeps into the ground to varying depths and collects in aquifers. which are rock or
soil formations with adequate pore spaces to store water and sufficient interconnections between
pores to allow groundwater flow. Groundwater can remain stored underground for periods ranging
from a few days to thousands of years. Water is discharged from the groundwater system through
streams, wetlands. or springs, (called baseflow).lt evaporates and transpires from vegetation and is
pumped from wells.
The hydrogeological features in many parts of the Oak Ridges Moraine allow for significant recharge
to the groundwater system. Aquifers within the Moraine provide a source of drinking water for over
250,000 people in the Greater Toronto Area and a water supply for agricultural. industrial, commercial,
and recreational uses. Discharge from these aquifers is critical in maintaining baseflow in the 65 water.
courses with headwaters on the Moraine. These aquifers also maintain water levels in numerous lakes
and wetlands.
The Oak Ridges Moraine is an area with valued groundwater resources, but it also attracts land use
activities and resource-based uses that could adversely affect the long-term protection of the
resource if not properly managed and regulated.
2.1.2. Earlier Analysis
Two sets of general studies are necessary to provide a foundatfon for protecting groundwater and its
associated natural features and uses. The first set of studies provides a basic understanding, or inven.
tory, of the geological and hydrogeological features, groundwater uses, potential sources of contamina.
tion, and terrestrial and aquatic habitats. In the 1990s. the Province of Ontario completed a broad
hydrogeological review of the Moraine and potential sources of contamination and impacts from land
use.
The federal government has carried out complementary studies to develop a stronger definition of
the Moraine's internal structure in order to provide a better understanding of elements that control
groundwater recharge, flow and discharge.
University researchers have developed techniques for integrating groundwater and surface-water data
at the scale of both site and watershed. The Province completed earlier watershed-based studies of
hydrogeological resources in the I 970s for selected basins draining the Moraine. The Province.
Conservation Authorities and municipalities have conducted inventories of terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
The second set of studies carried out more detailed analysis of the inventoried information. in
order to develop recommendations for the long-term management of groundwater resources.
10
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Wellhead protection plans, aquifer management plans, water budgets, and integrated watershed plans
are examples of these studies. Municipalities and Conservation Authorities have begun to carry OUt
these studies, which provide the basis for making informed decisions about land use proposals and
rates of resource use.
Many differ'ent agencies and groups have an interest in groundwater on the Oak Ridges Moraine.
They have contributed in various ways to the development of a basic understanding of the resource.
However, there has been little effort to evaluate the potential cumulative impacts of land use activities
or to developing comprehensive management plans.
2.1.3. Current Groundwater Management Initiatives
In 2000, Durham, Peel and York Regions and the Conservation Authorities with jurisdiction within the
Regions' boundaries, formed a committee to develop a comprehensive Groundwater Management
Strategy for the three Regions.
This strategy is being developed in two phases. Phase I is nearing completion; it has involved a pre-
liminary assessment of issues and the development of a workplan for Phase 2.
Phase 2 will involve the actual development of the strategy and concurrent initiatives for filling high-
priority data gaps. Although the Groundwater Management Strategy is being developed for the entire
jurisdiction of the three Regions, a central focus will be the Oak Ridges Moraine, making its mandate
relevant for incorporation in the groundwater management component of the Oak Ridges Moraine
Partnership work.
There are groundwater management initiatives under way in other municipalities that lie on the
Oak Ridges Moraine. The City of Kawartha Lakes (formerly Victoria County) completed Phase I, ear-
lier in 200 I, of a groundwater protection plan for its water supply wells. Within Dufferin County, the
Town of Mono is currently developing a groundwater protection plan and associated watershed-based
plans for its municipality.
The Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Ontario's Conservation Authorities formed a part-
nership in 2000 for the establishment of a provincial groundwater-monitoring network. The informa-
tion collected under this program will provide baseline data about ambient groundwater conditions
that will be used as a basis for planning decisions.
II
n~E OM'. RiDCES MORAINE
Figure 2
Human Intervention in the Water Cycle
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2.2. Issues
2.2.1. Sensitive Groundwater Conditions
The Oak Ridges Moraine contains hydrogeological features and functions that support valued ground-
water resource uses. These conditions present the following management issues:
. degree of recharge potential;
maintenance of stream baseflows or lake levels;
. connection with aquatic/terrestrial habitat;
. provision of assimilative capacity in streams receiving sewage treatment plant effluent;
. source of water supply for domestic or other uses; and
areas of known groundwater contamination.
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2.2.2. Stresses and threats
Land use activities and groundwater withdrawals represent another type of groundwater management
issue. These are the key stresses and threats to groundwater on the Moraine:
urban and rural development pressure;
potential for contamination from urban stormwater;
demand for groundwater as a source of domestic supply, and for agriculture and other uses;
potential for contamination from septic systems, landfills, crop farming, and feedlots;
removal of water from landfills, municipal servicing facilities and aggregate extraction sites;
. demand for groundwater use for golf courses, private ponds, etc.;
estate residential development;
peat extraction; and
sewage treatment plant effluent
2.2.3. Data and Information Gaps
A lack of hydrogeological and related data and Information limits the extent to which an effective
management strategy can be implemented. Data is absent or incomplete in the following key cateories:
records of groundwater use;
inventories of potential sources of contamination;
streamfiow data, particularly for headwater streams;
groundwater monitoring data (chemistry and static water levels);
watershed-based analysis of water budgets and natural heritage linkages;
watershed-based groundwater flow modelling;
aquifer management studies; and
wellhead protection studies.
2.2.4. Administrative and Institutional Issues
The following administrative and institutional issues have hindered the implementation of effective
groundwater management:
. fragmentation of responsibility for groundwater management;
Richmond Hill
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Source: Lou Wise. Aerographic
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. lack of co-ordination among agencies;
. incomplete data-sets and lack of standard evaluative tools;
. inconsistent policies and practices across jurisdictional boundaries; and
. lack of public and political awareness of groundwater issues.
2.3, Analysis
2.3.1. Priority Areas for Groundwater Management
A review of groundwater issues in a given area, provides the basis for determining the required man-
agement priorities and approaches. Such an assessment was carried out for each watershed unit
within Durham. Peel and York Regions. Each watershed was ranked based on its priority for further
groundwater management action, according to the significance of groundwater conditions, the pres-
ence of significant stresses or threats, and the significance of data gaps. 70ut of 40 watersheds were
ranked as having "high" overall priority, and an additional 13 watersheds were ranked as having
"medium-high" priority. These most sensitive watersheds tended to have a significant portion of their
areas on the Oak Ridges Moraine and were under pressure for urban and rural growth.
Although some degree of hydrogeological study has been carried out in most of the high-priority
watersheds, only about half of them have been extensively ,studied. Even for those watersheds that
have a greater level of information in place, the findings have not been used to develop specific
groundwater management policies.
While this formal assessment has not been completed for areas of the Moraine outside of the three
Regions, it is likely that the same factors were considered by the other municipalities in their decisions
to proceed with their groundwater management initiatives, described in Section 2.1.3.
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2.3.2. Current Requirements
A number of factors were considered in developing the approach to a groundwater management
component of this report:
. the need for collaboration among the municipalities sharing a common landform and common land
use issues to assist in developing consistent policy and practices;
. the need for co-ordination with ongoing initiatives, such as the York/Peel/Durham Groundwater
Management Strategy and the groundwater protection plans of the City of Kawartha Lakes and the
Town of Mono, which will provide the basis for this work;
. partnerships with Conservation Authorities that could take advantage of their watershed focus and
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expertise, particularly for issues of Interaction between groundwater and surface-water and associ-
ated natural heritage features;
the need for collaboration with provincial and federal government agencies, as they hold relevant
regulatory powers and maintain core data sets; and
the urgency in accelerating work in high-priority areas, even while the strategy is being developed.
Based on these considerations, this report recommends the development of an overall
Groundwater Management Strategy for the Oak Ridges Moraine and the acceleration of high prior-
ity actions, The work will be co-ordinated with the three Region Groundwater Management Study.
2.4. Strategic Directions
The following strategic directions are recommended to ensure better understanding and protection of
groundwater systems, It is essential to continue to recognize the linkages with surface water systems
and terrestrial systems.
-~, Hydrogeological Data System
A regionally led, co-ordinated system should be created for the Moraine where groundwater data
can be warehoused and analyzed. This system could be managed by one of the Conservation
Authorities or a university. All available public data should be combined in one accessible format.
'-~ Common Data Standards
All parties should agree upon common standards for data collection to be used by public and private
sectors. This initiative should be co-ordinated by the three Regions with other partners.
{, Model Groundwater Management Policies
Each regional and local municipality should adopt model policies for groundwater management pre-
pared as part of the three Region Groundwater Strategy. These policies will define groundwater
management objectives and associated indicators, measures and targets, so that individual policies
are scientifically defensible and so that the effectiveness of their implementation can be measured.
) Focus on priority watersheds
Implementation and decision criteria should be developed on the basis of watershed studies, partic-
ularly where the issues involve shallow aquifers and affect interactions between groundwater and
surface-water. A program for the completion of integrated watershed studies by Conservation
Authorities for "priority" watersheds, identified by the three Region Groundwater Strategy should
be accelerated,
Goal of the Groundwater Strategy:
To establish conSistent poliCies. dato collection,
'I dato management standards. and analytical
, methods for groundwoter management and to
determine 0 (ramework (or Implementotlan
across the three Regions,
15
TilE O~r' niOGE':S MOPt,:',l"
. Watershed analyses should include groundwater fiow models, water budgets, and determination of
the significance of connections with terrestrial and aquatic habitats. These analyses should result in
the development of overall management plans.
-$- Recharge and Discharge Areas
. Significant hydrogeological features, such as key recharge and discharge areas, must be identified and
protected in regional Official Plans in ordeno ensure the maintenance of hydrogeological functions.
-$- Performance Standards
. Criteria should be established through the three Region Groundwater Strategy to define the cir-
cumstances upon which sensitive watershed lands should be brought into public ownership for pro,
tection In perpetuity.
. Performance standards are needed for proposed land uses and groundwater withdrawais.
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-$- Monitoring Programs
. The three Regions should hire hydrogeologiscs who. will, together, establish a hydrogeology co-ordi-
nating committee with the Conservation Authorities, the Province and other partners.
. The hydrogeology co-ordinating committee will establish programs for monitoring groundwater and
related resource uses. This data will be necessary for tracking the long-term effectiveness of the
Groundwater Management Strategy. In the short term, the monitoring efforts will assist in filling
critical data gaps and will provide the basis for further analysis necessary for making management
decisions.
16
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NaturaL Heritage Data Management """"""{
3,1. Background
As described in Chapter 4, Durham, Peel, and York Regions have different policies for the protection
of the Moraine within their jurisdictions. Similarly, most agencies have different methods and abilities
to identify environmental features and functions. In fact, most agencies possess and regularly acquire
different types of data to substantiate their policies.
The three Regions, the cities, towns, counties, and Conservation Authorities use different terminol-
ogy to identify natural heritage features. The lack of a co-ordinated approach to data management is
one of the weaknesses hindering successful protection of significant and sensitive natural heritage fea-
tures on the Oak Ridges Moraine. Agreed-upon data standards are also not in place. Implementation
df policy is less effective than it might be, because the level of detail needed to accurately reflect the
sensitivity of some features has not been fully investigated. From a development applicant's perspec-
tive. there is a lack of clarity and consistency of performance criteria. This lack of co-ordination cre-
ates difficulties in evaluating the state of the Oak Ridges Moraine or any other shared geographical
features in Southern Ontario.
3.1.1. Goal for Natural Heritage Data Management
This chapter provides recommendations to develop a comprehensive natural heritage data manage-
ment system for the Oak Ridges Moraine that uses common standards and terminology. A standard.
ized level of detail will assure that protective policies are supported and defensible.
Further, by achieving common standards, all agencies having jurisdiction on the Moraine will benefit
from data sharing opportunities. The effective implementation of environmental policies must be based
on a standardized framework of data sets; and these data sets must be of sufficient detail to adequately
assess the impact of proposed change on form, function and linkages of environmental features. The
natural heritage information should be available to all agencies and stakeholders.
The chapter also identifies key data gaps that need to be filled.
Produced by: Geomatics Division,
Planning and Development Services
Department, York Region
17
The Ecologlcol Land Classlficotlon (ELC) is a
standardized orgonlzotloncl framework thot
wQS developed to 055,'51 In implementing
ecosystem-based monogernent initiotives.
According to "Ecologlcol Lend ClaSSification
(or Southern Ontono," "The ELC 1$ mode up
or $,'X nested levels. From the largest to the
sma/lest scole they ore'
Site Region
System
Community Closs
Community Senes
Ecosite
Vegetation Type
'Community Senes Wilts breo,~ down
Community Classes into Uriits thot ore nor-
moliy '{lslble" and thot con tYPically be recog-
nized (rom combined rnopplng and oir Photo
,ntero,retctror), "Communily Senes units are
the lowest level In the ELC thot con be iden-
er(ied '0/ithout 0 site VI$,'r." Lee. H. T, et 0/,
1998 "Ecologicol Land Crossrficotron for
Southern Omono: First Approxrrnotion and Its
App/,'coLlOn" Or]tono Iv1m,'siry of Natural
Pesou/"ces
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THE 0.'\,1-'. ''';t'!(';ES Mc)H::'I'~t..
3.2, Issues
The Issues identified by the Partnership include:
lack of a common natural heritage data management system with attendant data sets, data standards
and common definitions;
lack of a natural heritage data management system framework that is applicabie to lands and water-
sheds both on and off the Oak Ridges Moraine;
lack of a Geographic Informations Systems (GIS) tool for data management and mapping with ana-
lytical and predictive capability;
lack of consistent formulation and application of natural heritage policy across the Oak Ridges
Moraine; and
lack of an accessible and dynamic database of environmental information about the Oak Ridges
Moraine.
3.3. Analysis
3.3.1. Status of Current Initiatives
A survey was devised and distributed to Partnership members to determine what data sets are in use
by the various partners. what format (digital or paper), these data sets take and to identify gaps in the
data. The survey confirmed that a number of Conservation Authorities are undertaking initiatives such
as subwatershed plans, monitoring programs or natural hazard mapping, which involve the collection
and standardization of natural heritage data.
An initiative with the greatest potential for standardizing natural heritage data is either being under-
taken or considered by several Conservation Authorities including Credit Valley, Toronto and Region.
Central lake Ontario, Kawartha Region and Ganaraska Region. That Initiative is the identification,
description and classification of the various vegetation communities within watersheds by using the
Ecological land Classification (ELC) system to the Community Series level.
The ElC system, as adopted by the Province and refined for southern Ontario, has a strong scien-
tific basis and a history of accepted use in other jurisdictions spanning several decades. As a standard,
ized system for identifying and classifying ecological land units (for example, forest cover). the
Ecological Land Classification can be used as the common base for the formulation of a consistent
policy framework for environmental protection for watershed features and functions both on and off
the Oak Ridges Moraine.
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All Consel'vation Authorities have agreed that the Ecological Land Classification (ELC) should be
used as the standard for defining terrestrial vegetation, wetland and aquatic communities. The
Ecological Land Classification system has a number of levels. The Community Series level was sug-
gested as the standard to achieve initially, as this data can be collected cost-effectively. Conservation
authorities al'e at different stages of completion in their ELC programs. For example, Credit Valley and
Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authorities have both completed the ELC at the Community
Series level for their respective watersheds. Typically this data is collected from interpreting aerial
photographs, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority is at the beginning of translating data at the
Vegetation Type level (refer to sidebar on previous page) into the ELC. This level of data has been
field,collected,
New water management regulations are being formulated as a result of updated provinciallegisla-
tion, Work to be undertaken by Conservation Authorities to implement these regulations will focus
on mapping a number of the features and functions in their areas. This exercise will set consistent
standards for those features identified in the legislation, such as waterfront lands, hazardous lands,
river or stream valleys, wetlands, and watercourses.
3.3.2. Data Sets
The survey completed by a dozen of the Partnership members used the 1994 draft Oak Ridges
Moraine Strategy as its base. It was evident from the survey responses that there is a wide disparity
among the data sets that agencies currently have. The most common data that most agencies have
(digital or paper) is for Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI's), wetlands, woodlands, streams
and rivers. Participants pointed out, however, that in no way did this mean that the data sets are com-
piete for these features. In almost all cases, further inventory work is still required.
Some key data describing "significant portions of the habitat of endangered and threatened species"
is lacking. Sites meeting this description are identified in the Provincial Policy Statement as locations
where development and site alterations will not be permitted. These locations are distinct from "signif-
icant wildlife habitat" or "fish habitat," also mentioned in the PPS, but where development may be per-
mitted if no negative impact would occur. Survey responses noted that most agencies have the
Ministry of Natural Resources "data points" indicating historic observations of species of concern but
agreed that data on what constitutes the "significant portions" of their habitat and its location is lack-
ing: Data is also lacking for significant wildlife habitat.
Most of the environmental data that has been collected has been assembled through or based on
work of either the Ministry of Natural Resources or the Conservation Authorities. The survey results
also indicate that attribute data is lacking for most of the features ar functions for which information
19
T~lr O."-.~ r~iDGE':~~ MOp::. ! '\i':
was requested. In other words, the data sets often consist of only a mapped location without any
description or physicai traits to describe the feature or function. There is general agreement that the
data sets listed on the survey are all important to collect and maintain, and that several additional data
sets such as information ,on ponds, soils, surficial geology or climate must also be considered for inclu-
sion.
Finally, the survey shows a wide disparity in the degree of digital/electronic data available. At the
same time all partners are moving towards digital formats, especially in the acquisition of new data,
Digital data formats are quite consistent among the partners, with most using either ArcView or
Arclnfo programs that are compatibie with one another.
3.3.3. Value of Data Management System
Some agencies have other digital data sets that will provide functionality to a natural heritage data
management system. These include Ontario Base Mapping, assessment data, property fabric and ortho-
digital air photos. A system combining these data sets with ELC data (of at least the Community
Series level) will evolve into a useful decision-making tool to identify stewardship and restoration or
linkage opportunities, to prioritise land securement or acquisition opportunities and to set targets for
environmental enhancement and landform conservation. Such a data management system will also be
useful as a technical, evaluative tool to assess such things as patch connectivity, shape scores and inte-
rior habitat. All of this will help identify significant habitats that must be protected pursuant to the
Provincial Policy Statement. These emerging tools are essential in predicting the effects of losses or
additions of greenlands or linkages in green land systems.
Although the Community Series data will provide a common base, it alone cannot support a policy
framework. Fieldwork at the Ecosite and Vegetative Type levels will more accurately identify environ-
mental features and clarify their extent and ..ignificance.
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3.3.4. Data System
Improved management and accessibility of the natural heritage data, which would see it made widely
and uniformly available to multiple users, is required. Three options were examined:
. a centralized approach, such as having one agency as the central data repository, would allow access
by multiple users to an up-to-date data resource. Suggestions for the most suitable location for
such a repository include an agency or an independent educational institution.
. a dispersed model, where each agency would 'Collect, maintain and keep its own data, but in com,
patible formats, so that large-scale mapping and analysis can be accommodated on an as-needed
basis. '
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. a hybrid model, where data would be centralized, and site-specific data would be kept at only the
local agency responsible for data collection, '
A hybrid model would provide the most flexible and practical approach to co-ordination of Oak
Ridges Moraine data, This type of digital data system will require that one agency or group playa
lead role in co-ordinating data compatibility, standards and quality and.will require adequate funding
from stakeholders.
3.4. Strategic Directions
The following strategic directions are recommended to achieve a co-ordinated and consistent
approach to natural heritage data management for the entire Oak Ridges Moraine.
~,. Data System
It is recommended that a regionally led co-ordinated centralised data system be created for the
Oak Ridges Moraine. Each local jurisdiction would have control of local data.
" Accessibility
. Natural heritage data with the exception of data about vulnerable, threatened and endangered
species should be available to all stakeholders,
'2- Data Standards
The Ecological Land Classification (ELC) system at the Community Series level is recommended as
the standard,
Conservation authorities should prepare a strategy for the completion of the ELC work for the
Oak Ridges Moraine portions of their respective jurisdictions on a priority basis.
The first priority of data acquisition and/or update, depending upon the requirements of each
agency, should be lands on the Oak Ridges Moraine.
Arcview/ Arclnfo should be used as the common Geographic Information Systems (GIS) standard.
Updating information on a regular basis will be essential.
+ Analytical, Predictive and Monitoring Tool:
Conservation authorities and municipal governments should develop an analytical and predictive
tool to assess the sustainability of greenlands and the most effective addition of areas and linkages.
Municipal and Conservation Authority staff should begin to develop a prototype of a regional-scale
green lands system policy framework based on ELC data sets that specifically identify key corridors
and linkages.
Goal of the Data Management
Strategy:
To proVide for the development of 0 co-ordl-
noted, stondardlzed ecologlcol, systems-based
protocol for collection, management, mOnitor-
ing and mopping of natural hentoge dato
regarding Oak Ridges Moraine, as the baSIS
for creating uniform poliCies With high ston.
dords of protectIOn for environmental feotixes
and functions
21
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-$- Financial Requirements
. The establishment of a common data management system for the Oak Ridges Moraine will require
financial support from all parties.
-$- Implementation
A technical committee composed of the Conservation Authorities. and provincial, regional, COUnty
and local municip~i staff should ensure co-ordination and implementation of the data management
system.
co
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Building Blocks for a Natural Heritage Data System
for the Oak Ridges Moraine
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22
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Chapter 4
Policy
4,1, Background
n ' ,111,1Iy,
"Ci ','ni !.:i
:.)1, doc'
. ," on Oak Ridges Moraine policy and offers a brief summa,-y of provincial and
nd strateg'c policy documents for the Moraine, A more compiete discussion of
1:1Y be found in the "The Oak Ridges MNaine:Towards a Long-term Strategy."
4.2. Policy Context
6, ,:~lbc!
"to documents form the existing policy framework for the Oak Ridges Moraine,
,,'e outlined here,
These dcx,
4,21. 1991 Oak Ridges Moraine Interim Guidelines
-)9 i, () '"clo,'ed a provincial interest in the Oak Ridges Moraine and ,-eleased
";" :'I(:':11CI1: JUldelines" as a provisional measure to guide development on the Moraine until the
(,.~ . ;'>i(~tl()' 'lg~term strategy.
Cl'l' .,Iopment applications (including Official Plan amendments but not including consent
,p (.1"<)' ilemn Guidelines articulate areas where no development should occur (such as
',"'., N.w...s) and for other areas identify studies that are required before development
"pp ovals l: 'onsidered. The Interim Guidelines have not been finalised. The Province and the
PuCH!CI ,,11I'tles continue to apply the Interim Guidelines and review development applica,
f!CJllS on ti"C 'Y,' 'line according to their requirements.
4,2, 2, 1994 Draft Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy
N!,,:., ,hi 'on of Provincial Interest on the Oak Ridges r10ratne was announced in 1991, the
o >"11(:(' ,j a Technical Working C,ommittee to examine thf:~ many different issues on the
'1. ,.n":l ,late a stI-ategy for its protection, Fifteen background studies we,'e completed
be "ccn I'" 1994, The infNmation collected through these studies ,'eflected a multidisciplinary
:'g, which considered the Moraine ecosystem as part of the larger biophysical
"(
rilC 51"
! 994, a draft strategy was prepared and c;,-cuI3ted for public comment, with the
'he Oak Ridges MOI"aine Strategy for the Greater Toronto Area" (including the
': 1"\: d I,~..tf \
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results of the public consultation) submitted to the Minister of Natural Resources late that year. The
strategy received support from a wide variety of stakeholders including the development industry. This
report builds on the consensus gained in the preparation of the 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine
Strategy.
The draft strategy identifies three interconnected natural systems existing on the Moraine: Natural
Heritage System, Water Resources System, and Landform Conservation System. In addition to Identify-
ing these systems and establishing areas where no development should occur, the draft strategy also
contains quite detailed policies to guide development in fully serviced and unserviced communities.
recreational developments and renewable and non-renewable resources.
Although the strategy was essentially complete at the end of 1994 and the Technical Working
Committee was disbanded, the 1994 draft strategy was not adopted nor incorporated into the
Provincial Policy Statement. The 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy has been used in the prepa-
ration of this report as a guide in Identifying Improvements to existing policy in the Regions.
4.2.3. 1997 Provincial Policy Statement
The Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) was issued under the authority of Section 3 of the Planning Act.
It provides broad policy direction on matters of Provincial Interest related to land use planning and
development. Planning authorities such as regional and local municipalities are required to "have regard
to" Policy Statements issued under the Act when making decisions.
The preamble of the current Provincial Policy Statement states that wisely managed and environ-
mentally sound growth is vital to Ontario's ongoing prosperity, and that "doing things right the first
time can avoid the need for costly remedial measures to correct problems." The complex interrela-
tionships between environmental, economic and social factors in land use planning are the basic princi-
ples of the PPS. Of particular relevance to land use change in the Moraine are policies in Sections 2.3,
Natural Heritage, and 2.4. Water Quality and Quantity.
However, no specific section of the PPS deals with the Oak Ridges Moraine, even though there is no
impediment to providing geographically specific references In the PPS. There is an opportunity to add
specific references to the Oak Ridges Moraine and to fill natural heritage policy gaps during the
Province's S-year review of the PPS.
4.3. RegIonal Policy Context
In the early 1 990s, a new generation of Official Plans were approved for regional and local municipali-
ties in the GTA. These plans contain a higher level of natural heritage identification and protection
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than previous plans and view the natural' heritage features and functions of the area as interconnected
systems. The Regional Official Plans of Durham, Peel, and York all identify natural environment systems,
although the plans apply different titles to them (Major Open Space Systems in Durham, Regional
Greenlands System in Peel and York). The basis for system identification is very similar in all three
cases. The major differences between these systems are contained in each plan's policy framework.
Durham establishes permitted uses within the Major Open Space System (all other uses being pro-
hibited in the absence of an amendment)
Peel prohibits development in Core Areas of the Regional Greenlands System.
York indicates that an application for development will not be supported unless there is no overall
negative effect, as determined through an environmental evaluation.
4.3.1. Durham Region
The Durham Region Official Plan, approved in 1993, establishes a framework for guiding growth and
development in the Region to 2021 and provides direction for the preparation of detailed planning
documents by the area municipalities.
The Plan designates the Oak Ridges Moraine as a component of the Region's Open Space System.
The Moraine is specifically identified on Map A, Regional Structure, and in Section 14.
The Durham Regional Official Plan recognises the Oak Ridges Moraine, valley systems and water-
fronts as the main features of the Major Open Space System. The Durham Plan provides for a continu-
ous open space system to protect and connect the Oak Ridges Moraine, environmentally sensitive
areas, waterfront, valley-lands, wooded areas and wildlife sanctuaries. These areas "shall be protected
for their special natural and scenic features, their roles as predominant landscape elements in the
Region and the recreational opportunities that they facilitate". The Plan specifies that the predominant
use of land in the Major Open Space System is for conservation, recreation, reforestation, agriculture,
and farm reiated uses. Recreational uses, such as golf courses may only be considered by Official Plan
amendments. No new or expanded resource extraction operation is permitted other than by amend-
ment to the Official Plan. Amendments to the Durham Regional Official Plan pertaining to lands
located on the Oak Ridges Moraine must adhere to the Provincial "Implementation Guidelines for the
Oak Ridges Moraine Area of the Greater Toronto Area".
Regional Structure Map A to the Plan also identifies the general location of Environmentally
Sensitive Areas. The Environment policies of the Plan promote the preservation, conservation and
enhancement of the Region's natural environment giving such resources "paramount consideration" in
the planning and development of the Region. The policies further require the preparation of an
Environmental Impact Statement where development is in proximity to these areas and require
assessment of the potential cumulative impacts on the environment and mitigating measures.
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4.3.2. Peel Region
The Regional Municipality of Peel Officiai Plan was fully approved by the Ontario Municipal Board in
August 1998.
The Moraine in Peel is contained wholly within the Rural System, as identified on Schedule C,
Regional Structure, of the plan. Components of the Rural System on the Moraine include one Rural
Service Centre (Caledon East). several small rural settlements and the Palgrave Estate Residential
Community. The largest component (in land area) of the Rural System on the Moraine is the Rural
Area, which is used predominantly for agriculture. forestry, recreation or conservation purposes and
rural consents. Approximately 25 percent of the Rural Area are Greenland Core Areas. where devel.
opment is prohibited.
The Moraine is specifically recognized in section 2.2.9 of the plan as a Provincially Significant
Natural Feature. Development proposals on the Peel portion of the Moraine are required to adhere
to the 1991 Interim Guidelines. The Town ofCaledon is directed to have policies in its Official Plan to
address the Interim Guidelines and policies that protect locally significant environmental features,
Additionally, policy 2.2.9.1.2 of the Regional Official Plan Identifies P~el's commitment to integrating
into the plan the provisions of the 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy. once the Province
approves it.
4.3.3. York Region
The Regional Municipality of York Official Plan, approved ,in October 1994, is a broad,based policy
document with flexibility for area municipalities to undertake detailed planning in local Official Plan
documents. The plan is based on the three themes of Sustainable Natural Environment, Economic
Vitality and Healthy Communities. The Regional Plan underwent a 5-year review in 1998-1999.
Chapter 2 of the plan, entitled "Sustainable Natural Environment," contains policies and schedules
relating to the Regional Greenlands System, Environmental Policy Areas and Wetlands. Forest Cover.
Surface and Groundwater Systems, Landform Conservation and the Oak Ridges Moraine.
The intent of policies within Chapter 2 is to prohibit development within the Regional Greenlands
System and Environmental Policy Areas, unless it can be shown through an environmental evaluation
that the development will not have overall negative effect on the functions, attributes or linkages for
which the area was identified.
Section 2.5 of the Regional Official Plan deals specifically with the Oak Ridges Moraine. The plan relies
on compliance with the natural environment policies ih the plan. The policies in this section:
-
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recognize the Moraine as a significant and sensitive landscape within the Region;
require that applications for land use change within the Moraine (as shown on the Maps) be consid-
ered only after the studies contemplated by the 1991 Interim Guidelines have been undertaken or
the application meets the intent of the Interim Guidelines to the satisfaction of Ministry of Natural
Resources. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and Ministry of the Envireonment; and;
indicate that the Region will consider revisions to the its Official Plan when the Province approves
and releases an implementation plan for the Oak Ridges Moraine Planning Area.
4.4. Policy Issues and Analysis
In order to address the nature and extent of issues, the Partnership undertook a comparative evalua,
tion of policy in the Moraine area, including comparison of the 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine
Strategy and the three Regional Official Plans. This matrix analysis is available under separate cover.
The main policy issues are summarised in this section of the report.
4.4.1. The Provincial Policy Statement
Protection of the Oak Ridges Moraine, as a physiographic feature of the Province, should be strength-
ened, This will provide consistent support for improved policy in the Regions through the development
process. before the Ontario Municipal Board and in the courts.
Although there are other important moraines in the Province (such as Oro and Westminster). the
analysis in this report focuses on the Oak Ridges Moraine. Policy will be strengthened by including
specific reference to the Moraine in the Provincial Policy Statement and by requiring greater identifica-
tion of natural heritage features, functions and linkages that must be protected and enhanced within
the Moraine area,
Regional Official Plans (and local plans) must, at a minimum, comply with the PPS, although they may
go further in their level of protection. In order to provide the policy support for the protection and
enhancement of the Oak Ridges Moraine, the PPS should be amended concurrently and consistently
with Regional Official Plans, to provide the hierarchical basis necessary for successful policy planning.
4.4.2. Status of the Interim Guidelines
The status of the 1991 Oak Ridges Moraine Interim Guidelines has been the subject of much discussion
since their release, The main difficulty with the guidelines is that their status under the Planning Act is
not recognized as a means of articulating Provincial Interest and provincial policy. Further, the nature of
certain study requirements in the guidelines is not consistent with current Official Plan policies.
27
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The Province has required all three Regional Official Plans to identify the Moraine, to incorporate
the 'intent of the GUidelines and to provide mechanisms in the Officiai Plans for review of develop-
ment applications against the criteria and studies contemplated by the guidelines,
In 1991, the benefit of the interim GUidelines was to establish a common set of criteria and study
requirements over the Moraine area. Since that time, the three Regional Official Plans have incorpo-
rated more comprehensive performance or criteria-based planning. The criteria and studies required
under the guidelines have been largely subsumed by approved Regional Official Plan policy.
The presence of more than one set of policies has the effect of inconsistency of interpretation and
duplication of effort when development proponents apply for approval or sign-off from agencies. As an
example, Regional Official Plans have strict policies governing estate residential development. while the
Interim Guidelines potentially allow such development subject to a comprehensive analysis.
Those inconsistencies raise questions about which document has pre-eminence in the event of a
conflict between the 1991 Oak Ridges Moraine Interim GUidelines and approved Official Plan policies,
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4.4.3. Co-ordination of Policy Approach by Regions
"The Oak Ridges Moraine:Towards a Long-term Strategy" (1999) recognized the diversity of
approaches used by the three Regions in administering land use planning, transportation, and infra-
'structure planning, and improvements in the Moraine physiographic area.
The diversity of approaches does not provide a consistent public policy approach in the Moraine.
York Region and Durham Region are currently undertaking Official Plan reviews and updates in accor-
dance with the Planning Act requirements. Peel Region will consider an Official Plan review beginning
in 2002. The timing is therefore appropriate to identify a consistent and stronger policy set for Official
Plans across the Moraine. starting With the three Regions.
At the present time, the three Regionai Official Plans all contain policies which require the identifi-
cation of significant features and protection of their functions. attributes and linkages to a greater or
lesser extent. As an example, the Peei Official Plan prohibits development in Environmentally
Significant Areas, Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest. habitats of and Vulnerable Threatened and
Endangered Species, and woodlands greater than 30 hectares in Core Areas. The York Official Plan,
permits deveiopment if an environmental evaluation indicates the appiication would have no overall
negative effective on the features, functions and attributes for which it was identified. In Durham
Region, development other than specifically permitted uses is prohibited.L
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28
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4.4.4. Policy Gaps
Through analysis of the Official Plans, the Regions and the other members of the Oak Ridges Moraine
Partnership have identified five main areas where regional and local official plan policies should be
strengthened to achieve a higher measure of protection for natural heritage features and functions on
the Moraine.
Policies should deal with the identification and protection of tableland woodlots, including the
estabiishment of minimum development buffers from the drip-line of woodlots or forested areas.
Protection of the woodlots and public securement of a minimum 10-metre buffer from the dripline
is recommended.
Policies should establish the principle that corridors are required to link Core Areas. Identification
of appropriate criteria, functionality, widths, and securement mechanisms has yet to be finalised.
In regard to minimum buffers adjacent to Core Natural Areas, the Partnership proposes that policies:
., establish Q minimum 30-metre buffer from evaluated wetland boundaries; and
., establish, os a minimum standard. 30-metre buffer from the edge of channel for cold-water streams.
Policies should require identification and protection of sensitive hydrogeological features including
recharge and discharge areas.
Policies should strengthen and harmonize landform conservation to include:
> protecting vistas and views; and
).> minim/sing grading,
Official Plan land use and environmental policies should be harmonised within the Moraine area. This
approach, in combination with a revised Provincial Policy Statement, will provide consistent nomencla-
ture, feature and function identification, performance criteria and implementation. Landform conserva-
tion will be achieved through the protection and enhancement of both water resources and natural
heritage systems.
4.4,5. Updating Data and Mapping
Up-to-date natural heritage data is key to effective policy implementation, A number of data areas
need to be updated. These include Environmentally Significant Area data, which is being updated by
some Conservation Authorities. Floodplain mapping, which in many cases is over 30 years old, is espe-
cially out of date in urban areas. Research to identify corridors between natural heritage areas is
required. More accurate delineation of recharge and discharge areas, wetland complexes and tableland
woodlots is required.
29
Goal of the Policy Strategy:
,,,,,,,,'
To prepare 0 more compre,hens:ve sustQin~
ooie O{ipr"Qoch ror the protCC(,'or: ond
ennoncernent or the noturo/ her,'wge of the
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4.4.6.. Development Proposals
The policy in.tent of t~is report is to provide clear direction for the consideration of development
proposals. It IS recognized that some development can Occur on the Moraine, however any dev~lop-
ment should not ~ave a negative effect on key natural heritage features. Existing development applica-
tions will be conSidered subject to approved policy currently.
4.5, Strategic Directions
Many of the policy approaches in the Regional Official Plans are effective in protecting and enhancing
the Oak RIdges Moraine and should be retained. This section identifies actions that would further
strengthen the natural heritage policy framework in Ontario and specifically within the Oak Ridges
/1Qraine. Th<: /994 -iraft Oav P i-ige: M':vaine Stra~ has be€n used as a guide for the poliCY reeom_
m{:n1t1tj"n1 in thi':. reP')rt.
-+ Provlnclal Policy Statement
The Provincial Policy Statement should be amended to support and be consistent with a common
policy approach to the Oak Ridges Moraine. The PPS should:
refer specifically to the protection and enhancement of glacial moraines and in particular the Oak
Ridges Moraine;
. require identification of corridors and linkages;
require hydrogeological studies based on the principle of water balance;
. protect tableland woodlots;
. establish minimum 30-metre buffers from key environmental features; and
. include landform conservation policies to maintain visual and physical form, character and a variety
of landscapes.
4> Municipal Policies
. Municipal policies on natural heritage, water resources and landform conservation should be har-
monized and strengthened, starting with Regional Official Plans and proceeding at the same time as
preparations and public consultation on changes to the Provincial Policy Statement.
4> Major Policy Gaps
Five major natural heritage policy gaps have been identified. Regional Official Plans should be amended
to:
. identify and protect strategic ecological corridors and linkages;
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establish minimum buffers around sensitive features;
make landform conservation policies stronger and more consistent;
work with partners to identify and protect tableland woodlots; and
identify and protect sensitive hydrogeological features,
,~" Policy Refinements
Existing Regional Official Plans and policies should be amended to:
adopt a consistent no-development policy for core natural heritage features;
establish a minimum 3D.metre buffer for wetlands and Core Natural Areas;
generally prohibit development in kettle lake and wetland kettle basins;
establish a minimum 3D. metre riparian buffer for cold-water streams;
publicly secure buffers;
identify and protect recharge and discharge areas;
adopt a water balance approach for sensitive areas;
provide strong support for private land stewardship;
maintain water balance in dry kettles;
identify and protect headwater streams;
require cumulative impact analysis in Environmental Impact Statements; and
include consistent landform conservation policies.
) Implementation
Development proposals should include documentation identifying how natural heritage systems and
environmental standards. policy and criteria have been addressed.
C Data Gaps
Continuous updating of natural heritage data will lead to more effective policy implementation.
Working together, the Regions and the Conservation Authorities should:
update Envir'onmentally Significant Area data;
update floodplain data, especially in urban areas;
complete wetland identification;
identify corridors and linkages;
identify recharge and discharge areas;
31
. identify tableland woodlots; and
improve habitat data for Vulnerable Threatened and Endangered Species.
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",Land Securement
5.1. Background
Mature and old growth forests blanketed much of the Oak Ridges Moraine at the end of the 18th and
the beginning of the 19th century. By the end of the 19th century, this forest was almost entirely
cleared and much of the land base was converted to agriculture. Clearing and overgrazing of the Oak
Ridges Moraine was continued to the point that thousands of acres on the Moraine no longer had any
vegetative cover and turned into areas of blowsand. The adjacent photograph shows a blowsand area
near Ballantrae in 1900.
In order to stabilise eroded sandy soils in the area, extensive tree planting took place at the begin-
ning of the 20th century. Pine plantations were used to successfully stop erosion on both public and
private lands. These plantations, particularly the York Regional Forests and the Ganaraska Forest, are
currently among the largest forest patches on the Oak Ridges Moraine.
Following the passage of the Conservation Authorities Act in 1946, newly founded Conservation
Authorities, acquired extensive tracts of land across the Oak Ridges Moraine. Well-known conserva-
tion areas such as the Ganaraska Forest, Albion Hills and Forks ofthe Credit provide recreation
opportunities and natural heritage protection across the Oak Ridges Moraine.
The vast majority of the Oak Ridges Moraine remains in private ownership. Many of these owners
are excellent stewards of important natural heritage areas. Property tax incentives, tree planting and
forest management advice from public agencies have helped support private land stewardship.
Forest cover over the first 70 years of the 1900s increased on the Oak Ridges Moraine. Sine then,
however, forest cover appears to be decreasing in many parts of the Moraine. A co-ordinated land
securement strategy for the Oak Ridges Moraine will contribute to ensuring that the natural heritage
values of the Oak Ridges Moraine are protected and enhanced.
5.2. Issues
Key issues identified by the Partnership include:,
the wide variety of agencies involved in land securement, with little co-ordination;
. lack of a complete inventory of public land on the Oak Ridges Moraine;
.
11
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. lack of funding for land securement;
lack of an overall strategy for land securement;
a need for priority setting to determine which lands will be secured; and
. questions about financing and administering the management of secured lands.
5.3. Analysis
Over the years, Oak Ridges Moraine natural heritage areas have been preserved through a number of
means by a wide range of public and private agencies ana organizations. Land securement piays a vital
role in protecting our natural heritage features and the ecological health of the Moraine. The availability
of securement tools is important where the nature of the land is critical to the ecosystem and must
remain unaltered in order to protect natural features and continue to perform its natural functions.
5.3.1. Components of Land Securement
Land securement strategy is the protection of key natural heritage features, functions and attributes
throughout the Moraine by a range of tools, including but not limited to:
planning policy;
stewardship;
monitoring; and
. acquisition through bequests. easements, donations or purchase.
Planning policy, stewardship and monitoring should be pursued as the first steps in all securement
opportunities. The Partnership recognises that it is not necessary, nor feasible, to purchase all Moraine
lands Identified for securement; therefore, it is important to pursue innovative alternatives to work
towards the common goal of protection.
5.3.2. Public Land Ownership
A questionnaire was forwarded to 33 agencies, organizations, Conservation Authorities, local, county
and regional municipalities along the Oak Ridges Moraine. The information gathered has been used to
prepare a land holdings inventory, and to identify methods of land securement and potential funding
sources for inclusion in this report. The Table, page 35, illustrates the amount of land currently owned
by public agencies that have responded to the questionnaire.
34
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land Securement Tools
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5.3.3. Policy.
land use planning is an important tool in securing land on the Oak Ridges Moraine and acts as the
first line of defence. The Pianning Act defines the iand use controls that can be applied during the
development process. it allows for the securement of land by prohibiting, restricting, or regulating land
uses. Measures in the Planning Act include: Official Plan designations and zoning provisions, including
provisions under Section 34 of the Planning Act, which allows for the protection of sensitive iands and
corridors through the approval process for plans of subdivision, consents and site plans. Chapter 4 of
this report has more detailed discussion of existing policies.
land securement on the Oak Ridges Moraine will require the strengthening of land use planning
policies within regional and local municipal planning documents. Identification of natural heritage fea-
tures and functions eariy in the process will help avoid land use planning disputes later.
5.3.4. Private Land Stewardship
The vast majority of the Oak Ridges Moraine is and will remain under private ownership. Careful
management of private land is an essential component of any strategy to protect and enhance the
Oak Ridges Moraine. Public education programs will help to inform landowners and other stakehold,
ers regarding management practices to protect natural areas located on their land.
Under private land stewardship, landowners are encouraged to protect natural areas located on
their land, through oral or written agreements With government agencies or other management bod-
ies. Private owners agree to do such things as:
. maintain and protect natural areas;
. notify appropriate agencies about planned changes in land use; and
. notify appropriate agencies about intent to sell.
In exchange, the agency can provide certain benefits or initiatives such as;
. management advice:
. plaques or certificates of appreciation; and
financial incentives where appropriate (such as Conservation land Tax Rebates).
This approach is a relatively simple, low-cost, non-confrontational vehicle to achieve greater
landowner awareness and sensitivity and has the capability to cover off large areas, However, agree-
ments with private landowners are largely voluntary and therefore less binding than other methods.
Better tools and incentives for stewardship are required, including tax benefit programs, additional
funding and recognition of stewards.
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5.3.5. Monitoring
In any strategy. it is important to assess how the approach is performing in relation to the goals that
have been established. An annual report on the Land Securement Strategy should include an assess-
ment of the successes and failures of the strategy and should look at stewardship, planning policy and
properties acquired. Fui-ther, the report should make recommendations for improvements to the
strategy.
5.3.6. Acquisition
Land acquisition IS defined here as obtaining property rights through various methods, singly or in
combination
bequests and donations;
covenants:
easements;
leases and agreements;
exchanges; and
purchase/fee simple.
In view of the relatively high costs involved in purchasing fee simple property rights (full ownership),
purchase is only recommended in cases where:
the natural heritage feature and/or its function is at risk of loss or damage;
development is permitted and the planning policies have failed to secure lands in public ownership;
or
it is needed for specific purposes such as a regional trail.
Where possible. landowners will be encouraged to donate their property interests. Where property
rights must be purchased, the securement tool considered should be the most cost-effective.
Acquisitions should be based on agreed criteria (such as sensitivity, linkages, etc.). Approved criteria
need to be identified and agreed to by key acquisition partners.
5.4. Strategic Directions
The following strategic directions are recommended to ensure a co-ordinated securement land strat-
egy for the Oak Ridges Moraine.
37
LMDU ~_~;,m1%;;:@:;:U:':i,~
Goals of the Land Securement
Strategy
TO de,'eiJ0 (} conSistent CO-or, "noted
opprocch to lend securemern uO,'v,'ty across
rhe Ook Rdges Mcro,ne I
To ide,'"]t:fl (] brood range Of securement '
tools (Jvcilobie {or prO,tection or the:jOOk
R:0ges A1oroille fonds
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Tfl[ o'~~ I:~ ~'{~',l':S MOF.':'I~,E
~ Polley
. It is recommended that protection and enhancement through policy be the first approach in secur-
ing natural heritage features and properties on the Oak Ridges Moraine. Chapter 4 of this repOrt
recommends policy improvements.
~ StelVordshlp
A coordinated stewardship program should be established and funded by the partners. Its purpose
would be to educate landowners about the environmental values of their property and to establish
programs to maintain or enhance them. This would include landowner programs, education. incen-
tives and recognition for participants.
~ Acquisition Protocol
Acquisition of strategic properties on the Oak Ridges Moraine should be co-ordinated by partners.
The establishment of a protocol for consultation and co-ordination before acquisition is critical. The
partnership will co"ordinate the criteria and principles for property acquisition. Acquisition includes
purchase, donations and transfers of sensitive land through the development process.
+ Funding
. A coordinated funding program must be put in place to acquire lands which cannot be protected in
perpetuity by policy or stewardship.
The three Regions will take a lead role with our partners and will bring forward a report on a rec-
ommended model by December 3 I, 200 I.
. The report will examine options, but the recommendation will be based on the following principles:
~ Shared responsibility means shared contributions. All levels of government should participate.
~ Government cannot be expected to do this alone. Public money should leverage private sector money
and contributions from the general public.
. The report should consider carefully whether or not there should be a Greater Toronto Area-wide
program or one based locally (perhaps based on each of the three Regions or each of the nine
Conservation Authorities).
It is estimated that an overall annual budget of approximately $5-$10 million is required to fund
securement. This amount will need to be internally negotiated each year by each contributing
agency.
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+ Management Costs
Management plans are required for all lands acquired, to ensure their long-term health.
Land Secure~ent Partners
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39
THE: OA" I~':)G[:~'; M,)f.AI~,,[
_Next Steps
The Oak Ridges Moraine is one of the most prominent physiographic features in Southern Ontario. It
performs important water cycle functions, serving as a groundwater recharge/discharge area. The Oak
Ridges Moraine makes a valuable contribution to our quality of life and, indirectly, to our economy. In
the past, environmental protection policies and program interests have consistently identified the
importance of the Moraine. The improvement of our understanding, protection measures and manage-
ment practices for the Moraine ecosystem features and functions will be enhanced as a result of the
implementation of the recommendations in this report.
Since the announcement of the expression of Provincial Interest in the Oak Ridges Moraine in
1991, there has been an expectation that overall planning policies would be developed to assist upper-
tier and lower-tier municipalities in dealing comprehensively with competing interests on the Moraine.
Despite the best intentions of all parties and recognition on many fronts that co-ordinated policies
and approaches are desirabie, the process has not been concluded.
The 1991 Oak Ridges Moraine Interim Guidelines do not provide sufficient nor consistent protec-
tion for the Oak Ridges Moraine. There is an opportunity to strengthen existing Regional Official Plan
Policies using the 1994 draft Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy as a base.
6.1. Strategic Directions
Four strategic directions are proposed:
Groundwater Management: Improved understanding and information on groundwater systems, and
their relationship with surface-water and natural features will support better land use decisions.
Natural Heritage Data: Co-ordinated consistent data and mapping will provide the basis for good
public policy and effective monitoring.
Policy: Co-ordinated revisions to Regional Official Plans and the Provincial Policy statement will
strengthen public policy on the Oak Ridges Moraine.
. Land Securement: A funded Oak Ridges Moraine-wide securement strategy wiil help co-ordinate
stewardship, policy, monitoring, and acquisition efforts.
6.2. Public Input
Public discussion and stakeholder consuitations are important and necessary to moving forward on
the strategic directions outlined in this report. Without acceptance by stakeholders and the public,
this initiative cannot be completed nor properly implemented.
40
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A symposium and a series of public meet.ings are proposed for June 2001. The purpose ofthe sym-
posium is to heighten public awareness and improve public understanding of the need for a long-term
Oak Ridges Moraine Strategy. The symposium will feature speakers on the natural environment and
workshops whe'"e stakeholders can help refine the strategic directions.
Public stakeholders' input is also invited in written form or via the Internet for Durham, Peel and
York Regions, Special sessions for stakeholders or interest groups can be arranged, The results of this
proc~ss will be used in order to update and refine the recommendations in this report,
6.3 Role of Municipalities and Conservation Authorities
Once public input and refinements to the strategic directions are complete, the Regions in concert
with other partners will take a lead role in considering amendments to Regional Official Plans in
order to apply a consistent approach to implement the policy recommendations, Schedules to the
Official Plans may need to be updated in order that natural core features and green land systems
weave togethe," and appropriately match beyond municipal boundaries, Local municipalities will ensure
that their respective Official Plan policies and schedules reflect these recommendations, Conservation
authorities in concert with municipal governments will work to strengthen their respective policies
and to commit themselves to the achievement of consistent use of terminology and data gathering in
OI'der to produce and maintain a comprehensive data management system. Conservation Authorities
will also be responsible for implementing new Provincial water management and hazards regulations.
Monitoring and a further commitment to updating the system will be critical.
6.4 Role of the Province
Long-term protection of the Moraine cannot be achieved by a handful of agencies and municipalities.
There must be a commitment by all stakeholders. Significant involvement by the Province is critical.
Provincial involvement is required in order to revisit the Provincial Policy Statement, in conjunction
with all partners, and to recognize the Oak Ridges Moraine as a landscape feature requiring protection.
A provincial commitment through the Ministry of Natural Resources to continue to gather and
update information on natural heritage features and functions at a provincial scale would provide
valuable input in creating a natural heritage data system.
Provincial funding is essential to help finance improved databases, fill information gaps, and assemble
existing data,
Well records and research on the groundwater regime should be put into a comprehensive ground-
water data management system.
Through financial assistance and the promotion of public education, the Province is a necessary
partner in achieving a Land Securement Strategy.
41
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6.5 Continued Monitoring
There has been strong agreement to maintain the Oak Ridges Moraine Partnership. This Partnership
will act as a review committee and prepare annual "State of the Moraine" reports to detail progress
each year on the strategic directions identified here. The three Regions, in conjunction with the
Conservation Authorities and other contributing agencies will playa lead role in coordinating work
programs, priorities and in meeting targets.
6.6 Conclusion
This report proposes a number of strategic directions in four areas: groundwater management and
natural heritage data management, poi icy. and land securement. Implementation of these strategic
directions will significantly advance the protection of the Oak Ridges Moraine.
Improved groundwater management, data systems, policies and land securement will pl"ovide a
higher level of protection. Better natural heritage policies must be combined with an effective growth
management strategy that directs development away from the Oak Ridges Moraine. The moraine
needs a policy approach that will get out in front of the land development disputes that are all too
common. This report also proposes clear, practical actions that can be put in place by regional govern-
ments, Conservation Authorities and Partnership members.
Clear articulation of what needs to be done is a critical first step. Implementation of these ideas will
be the true test of Our resoive to protect and enhance the Oak Ridges Moraine.
42
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FH')TECT~Or--j AND M.4.NAGEMENT OF A uNiQUE LA.NDSCAPE
Appendix A - Contrihuting Agende
The following agencies were involved in the preparation of this report. This work included the identifi.
cation of issues. data sources, analysis, and proposed strategic directions.
. Regional Municipality of Durham
. Regional Municipality of Peel
. Regional Municipality of York
. Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority
. Credit Valiey Conservation Authority
. Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority
. Kawartha Conservation Authority
. Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
. Lower Trent Region Conservation Authority
. Nottawasag.i Valley Conservation Authority
. Otonabee Conservation Authority
. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
. City of Kawartha Lakes
. Peterbcrough County
. Simcoe County
. Dufferin County
. Northhumberland County
. City of Toronto
. Oak Ridges Moraine Trust
. Nature Conservancy of Canada
. Ministry of the Environment
. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
. Ministry of Natural Resources
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~ . Conservation Authorities
~, " Moraine Coalition
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~ Lake Ontario
<s Conservation
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GANARASKA REGION
CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
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- HowiU_ContacLUs.----
The Regional
Municipality
of Durham
Regional Municipality of Durham
Planning Department
Box 623, Lang Tower, West Building.
1615 Dundas Street East
Whitby, Ontario L I N 6A3
phone: 905-668-7711
website: www.region.durham.on.ca
Regional Municipality of Peel
Planning Division
10 Peel Centre Drive
Brampton, Ontario L6T 4B9
phone: 905-791-7800
website: www.region.peel.on.ca
, Region ci Peel
WOllktlllJ tOil qoll.
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Regional Municipality of York
Planning Division
17250 Yonge Street
Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 6Z I
phone: 905-895-1231
website: www.region.york.on.ca
The public and stakeholders are invited to attend the public open houses and information meetings (see (ront page (or
locations and times). Please submit your comments in writing or by email to any of the contacts above,
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