INDEX TO

AUTHORITY MEETING #10/11

Friday, November 25, 2011

MINUTESMinutes of Meeting #9/11, held on October 28, 2011 627

ELECTION OF OFFICERSTwo City of Toronto Members 627

DELEGATIONSRobb, Jim, Friends of the Rouge Watershed

re: Wetland Restoration on Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Owned-Lands 627

PRESENTATIONSImrie, Barb President, Albion Hills Community Farm

re: Albion Hills Community Farm 627

BRUCE'S MILL CONSERVATION AREA MASTER PLAN 628

WETLAND RESTORATION ON TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY-OWNED LANDS

Guiding Principles 636

URBAN FOREST STUDIES UPDATE 636

2012 FEE SCHEDULE FOR PUBLIC FACILITIES AND PROGRAMMING 647

PLANNING AND PERMIT ADMINISTRATION COST RECOVERY 649

REQUEST FOR DISPOSAL OF TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY LANDNorth of Mayfield Road, west of Kennedy Road, Town of Caledon 656

EVERGREEN AT THE BRICK WORKS LEASE AGREEMENTExtension of Loan Guarantee 655

SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE 656

MEETING SCHEDULE 2012-2013 655

IN THE NEWS 656

WATERSHED COMMITTEE MINUTESDON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL

Minutes of Meeting #9/11, held on October 13, 2011 667ETOBICOKE-MIMICO WATERSHEDS COALITION

Minutes of Meeting #3/11, held on Setpember 15, 2011 667

GLEN ROUGE CAMPGROUND 668

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MEETING OF THE AUTHORITY #10/11November 25, 2011

The Authority Meeting #10/11, was held in Weston Room B, Black Creek Pioneer Village, on Friday, November 25, 2011. The Chair Gerri Lynn O'Connor, called the meeting to order at 9:49 a.m.

PRESENTMaria Augimeri 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. Vice ChairDavid Barrow 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberBen Cachola 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberRonald Chopowick 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberVincent Crisanti 9:49 a.m. 11:10 a.m. MemberGlenn De Baeremaeker 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberMichael Di Biase 9:52 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberJack Heath 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberColleen Jordan 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberMujeeb Khan 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberChin Lee 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberGloria Lindsay Luby 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberGlenn Mason 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberMike Mattos 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberGerri Lynn O'Connor 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. ChairLinda Pabst 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberJohn Parker 9:56 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberAnthony Perruzza 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberJohn Sprovieri 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberCynthia Thorburn 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberJim Tovey 9:49 a.m. 12:01 p.m. MemberRichard Whitehead 9:49 a.m. 11:22 a.m. Member

ABSENTPaul Ainslie MemberBob Callahan MemberChris Fonseca MemberPeter Milczyn MemberGino Rosati MemberDave Ryan Member

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RES.#A235/11 - MINUTES

Moved by: Maria AugimeriSeconded by: Vincent Crisanti

THAT the Minutes of Meeting #9/11, held on October 28, 2011, be approved. CARRIED

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CITY OF TORONTO REPRESENTATIVES ON THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Mike Mattos was nominated by Maria Augimeri.Ben Cachola was nominated by Maria Augimeri.

RES.#A236/11 - MOTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS

Moved by: Vincent CrisantiSeconded by: David Barrow

THAT nominations for the City of Toronto representatives on the Executive Committee be closed.

CARRIED

Mike Mattos and Ben Cachola were declared elected by acclamation as City of Toronto representatives on the Executive Committee, for a term to end at Annual Meeting #1/13.

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DELEGATIONS

(a) A delegation by Jim Robb, Friends of the Rouge Watershed, in regard to item AUTH8.2 - Wetland Restoration on Toronto and Region Conservation Authority-Owned Lands.

RES.#A237/11 - DELEGATIONS

Moved by: Glenn De BaeremaekerSeconded by: Jim Tovey

THAT above-noted delegation (a) be received.CARRIED

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PRESENTATIONS

(a) A presentation by Barb Imrie, President, Albion Hills Community Farm in regard to the Albion Hills Community Farm.

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RES.#A238/11 - PRESENTATIONS

Moved by: Richard WhiteheadSeconded by: David Barrow

THAT above-noted presentation (a) be received.CARRIED

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SECTION I - ITEMS FOR AUTHORITY ACTION

RES.#A239/11 - BRUCE'S MILL CONSERVATION AREA MASTER PLANRecommends approval of the Bruce's Mill Conservation Area Master Plan.

Moved by: Glenn De BaermaekerSeconded by: Maria Augimeri

THAT the Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan, dated October 21, 2011, be approved;

THAT the Master Plan be circulated to the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville and the Regional Municipality of York requesting endorsement of the Plan;

THAT the Master Plan be distributed to all relevant stakeholders;

AND FURTHER THAT staff report to the Authority on implementation of the Master Plan at a future meeting.

CARRIEDBACKGROUNDBruce’s Mill Conservation Area (BMCA) occupies 108 hectares in the Rouge River watershed, within the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. The property is on the southern edge of the Oak Ridges Moraine and boasts a diverse ecosystem that includes Bruce Creek, a tributary of the Rouge River, a number of high-quality wetlands and extensive forests, including almost nine hectares of interior forest. In addition to providing valuable habitat to wetland and forest species alike, BMCA has the potential to be a prime tourist destination for local and regional visitors to enjoy nature-based recreation opportunities.

The Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan was initiated by Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in 2004. At Authority Meeting #6/04, held on June 25, 2004, Resolution #A180/04 was approved as follows:

THAT staff be directed to develop a master plan for Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area;

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THAT an Advisory Committee be established, which would include one member each from the Rouge Park staff and the Rouge Park Alliance, interested community groups, business representatives, community residents, agency staff, municipal staff and local and regional councillors to assist with the development of the master plan and to facilitate the opportunity for public input;

AND FURTHER THAT the final master plan be brought to the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority for approval.

RATIONALEThe Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan was generated to protect, conserve and restore the valuable ecological features and functions of the site, while guiding the current and potential future public uses of the area. It is intended to provide a vision of what is possible at BMCA, and inspire partners and supporters to help TRCA achieve that vision.

The Master Plan lays out a series of management recommendations and actions that seek to protect the natural heritage system while also providing for enjoyable recreational opportunities for the local community and residents of Stouffville, Markham and Richmond Hill.

Copies of the complete Draft Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan will be made available at the Authority meeting.

Plan Process and ConsultationThe master planning process occurred in several phases that consisted, among other actions, of compiling background materials and research; conducting extensive public consultation; developing a vision, goal and objectives; developing management recommendations; and developing trail and public use plans. The master plan itself includes a description and evaluation of the property based on relevant plans and policies, existing resource inventories and environmental conditions, site limitations and opportunities. Additionally, the plan identifies specific management zones for the site that delineate and guide the types and levels of appropriate activities. The plan also makes recommendations for future initiatives, including the protection of natural features and habitat regeneration based on an ecosystem approach to planning and management. Finally, detailed plans for trails and public use are presented.

Experience has shown that residents and community groups are concerned with the impact of land use change on the remaining natural landscapes within the Greater Toronto Area. At the same time, some user groups, businesses and municipalities have expressed a growing interest in a variety of uses for public lands, including nature-based recreation, ecological restoration and community stewardship. The provision of public uses on TRCA-owned land must consider economic factors and the recreational needs of the community, as well as ensure the natural landscape is protected and properly managed. The objective of the master planning process is to develop a plan for the BMCA property that protects its natural environment while exploring its potential for nature-based recreation.

The planning process was undertaken in three phases. Phase one included the establishment of technical and advisory committees. Phase two included project start-up and the completion of the background report. Phase three included the development of the master plan document, including property management zones, identification of existing habitat restoration priorities, and identification of recreational opportunities, including the development of a trail plan.

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For the BMCA Master Plan, TRCA established a Public Advisory Committee. The Public Advisory Committee was made up of representatives from the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, Town of Markham, Town of Richmond Hill, Regional Municipality of York, Whitchurch-Stouffville Chamber of Commerce, Whitchurch-Stouffville Museum, Rouge Park Alliance, Community Safety Village of York Region, Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club, Bruce’s Mill Driving Range, Whitchurch Highlands Public School, Whitchurch-Stouffville Soccer Club, Oak Ridges Trail Association, Whitchurch-Stouffville Environmental Advisory Committee, Rotary Club of Stouffville and YMCA. The committee was provided with a terms of reference document that was used to guide their contributions throughout the development of the Master Plan. The advisory committee worked with TRCA staff to finalize the project terms of reference, establish the vision, goals and objectives, determine the management zones and management recommendations, and develop the trail and public use plans. The committee also provided technical input and assisted with the public consultation program for the master plan.

The public consultation program included:meetings with interested organizations and groups in the community;information sessions, newsletters, questionnaires and mailings to the community to identify a broad range of potential needs and opportunities for the site;public meetings to present the background information, plan vision, proposed management zones, concept plans, trail plan, public use plan and management recommendations.

Vision, Themes and PrinciplesThe vision and values of the Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan have been integrated with those of TRCA and the Rouge River watershed. The visions, goals and objectives of the following plans and strategies were reviewed and incorporated as part of the process for developing master plan for BMCA;

The Living City vision and objectives;TRCA’s Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy;Rouge River Watershed Plan: Towards a Healthy and Sustainable Future (2007);Rouge North Management Plan (Rouge Park, 2001).

Vision and ValuesWorking within a watershed framework, the vision for the master plan reflects the essence of conservation planning values and sets a definite direction for the future of BMCA. The vision of BMCA is as follows:

Through dynamic partnerships and community involvement, Bruce’s Mill will enhance its significant natural areas and unique cultural heritage resources to provide the best opportunities for nature appreciation, education and outdoor recreational enjoyment. In addition, public health and safety will be integrated in harmony with all park programs, ensuring the natural and cultural values of the park are protected and will flourish.

The primary focus of the vision is to protect the natural features of the park while providing opportunities for appropriate recreation. It also highlights the importance of community involvement and partnerships, which are vital to the success of BMCA.

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Concept ThemesTo compliment the vision for BMCA, concept themes were developed to guide the Master Plan. These themes help to better focus the plan on identifying and enhancing existing strengths of the property, while also considering opportunities for growth.

The concept themes for BMCA include the following:

Active LifestylesThe provision of active lifestyle opportunities is an important function of BMCA, and the master plan seeks to enhance existing recreational features and experiences, while also considering the implementation of new opportunities. Promoting active lifestyles is an important value to TRCA and it’s municipal partners, and the master plan for BMCA seeks to appeal to a diverse audience of users through a range of recreational features and experiences.

Canadian HeritageHeritage appreciation is an important part of BMCA, and a number of significant heritage features and opportunities currently exist on the property, particularly the Mill structure and its role in Ontario’s industrial heritage. There exists great potential for the enhancement of these existing heritage features, and the master plan for BMCA seeks to create a unique visitor experience by integrating the celebration and interpretation of these feature under a theme of Canadian Heritage that will extend throughout the park.

Management RecommendationsManagement recommendations provide actions to achieve the vision and values. The key management recommendations include the following:

Natural HeritageRegular monitoring of flora, fauna and the overall condition of the ecosystems of BMCA.Increase the natural cover in BMCA by restoring the north half of the agricultural fields as well as allowing natural succession in the secondary restoration areas.Create a nature reserve area with limited public use in the central area of BMCA to protect and enhance the interior forest habitats.

Cultural HeritageIntegrate the heritage buildings into all aspects of the park management and development, such as trails, public uses, education and signage.Implement urgent repair and restoration activities required to stabilize the Mill building and Mill Attendant’s house.Initiate a public consultation process to develop an adaptive re-use plan for the Mill building.

Stewardship and OutreachDevelop a stewardship group to provide implementation support at BMCA.

Public use and RecreationRemoval of the driving range and development of an active lifestyle recreation area in the north-east corner of the property, with potential for enhancement through fill placement.

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Creation of level turf play fields in south-west corner of the property, with potential for enhancement through fill placement.Installation of a skills development area, including a ropes course.Development of a new aquatic facility, including a splash pad.Construction of a second entrance and driveway off of Warden Avenue.Enhancement of trail network and implementation of a trail plan

Recent InitiativesIn 2010, TRCA received $10,000 through the TD Friends of the Environment Fund. This funding was dedicated to boardwalk and bridge construction improvements to the existing trail network at BMCA.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONEThe successful implementation of the Master Plan for BMCA will require the efforts of TRCA and its partners.

TRCA will take the following actions:publish and distribute the Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan to the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, Regional Municipality of York, and relevant stakeholders and seek further consultation as necessary;request that the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville and the Regional Municipality of York include the Master Plan in their respective jurisdiction’s planning and land use policies and practices for the area;develop a detailed recreation plan for the north-east field;seek out funding and grant opportunities for the implementation of urgent repairs and restoration work to heritage structures on site;seek out potential partnerships for an adaptive re-use of the Mill building;establish a stewardship committee with appropriate representation from stakeholder groups to assist with the implementation of the Master Plan;report to the Authority on implementation of the Master Plan at future meetings.

FINANCIAL DETAILSThe total cost to implement the Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan is estimated at $2,817,000 over ten years. A summarized implementation budget for the master plan is shown on Table 1. These are preliminary estimates subject to discussion with the potential funding partners and refinement of project requirements. The ten-year time frame may also need to change.

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Table 1CATEGORY COST ($)

Park Entrance and Main Road 74,500North East Field 110,000Workshop and Operations Building 32,500Skills Development Area 40,000Heritage Structures 220,000Aquatic Area 1,543,500West Fields 227,000New Warden Avenue Entrance 195,500Trails 194,000General Improvements 180,000TOTAL 2,817,000

Staff will be approaching the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, the Regional Municipality of York, local community groups and other interested stakeholders to share in the cost of Plan implementation over the next ten years. Also, a portion of any revenues generated on site through fill placement enhancements will be directed back into implementation of the Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area Master Plan.

Report prepared by: Steven Joudrey, extension 5573Emails: sjoudrey@trca.on.caFor Information contact: Mike Bender, extension 5287Emails: mbender@trca.on.caDate: November 11, 2011Attachment 2

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Attachment 1

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Attachment 2

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RES.#A240/11 - WETLAND RESTORATION ON TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY-OWNED LANDSGuiding Principles. Wetland Restoration Guiding Principles for wetland restoration projects on TRCA-owned lands including the Rouge Park.

Moved by: Glenn De BaeremaekerSeconded by: Jim Tovey

THAT item AUTH8.2 - Wetland Restoration on Toronto an Region Conservation Authority-Owned Lands be deferred to Authority Meeting #12/11, scheduled to be held on January 27, 2012.

CARRIED _________________________________________

RES.#A241/11 - URBAN FOREST STUDIES UPDATEUpdate of Peel, York and Pickering studies managed by Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and endorsement of finalized Peel Region Urban Forest Strategy.

Moved by: Jack HeathSeconded by: Colleen Jordan

THAT the Peel Region Urban Forest Strategy be endorsed;

THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff be directed to continue their involvement in urban forest work as a member of the Peel Region Urban Forest Working Group;

THAT staff be authorized to participate in urban forest related opportunities and initiatives locally and beyond to share experience and expertise;

THAT staff pursue support from urban forest study partners for the development of a compilation report of urban forest studies conducted to date in the Toronto region (specifically York, Peel, Toronto, Ajax and Pickering);

THAT staff continue to provide support to municipalities that are developing emerald ash borer (EAB) management strategies;

THAT Peel Region be so advised of this support;

AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority on progress on completing and implementing the urban forest strategies.

CARRIEDBACKGROUND The urban forest by definition is a dynamic system that includes all trees, shrubs and understory plants, as well as the soils that sustain them, ranging from individual street trees to wooded areas, on both public and private lands.

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One of the recommendations in the TRCA Terrestrial Natural Heritage System Strategy (2007), was to undertake urban forest studies and develop strategies for urban forest management across the TRCA jurisdiction. At that time, TRCA staff canvassed municipalities and others to identify urban forest initiatives within TRCA's watersheds. Through this exercise staff found that a number of municipalities were either planning, or already had funding, to conduct studies within their own jurisdictions.

TRCA staff took advantage of the coinciding studies by initiating an informal collaborative between the various municipal and conservation authority project managers, as well as academic and community stakeholders. The primary objective of this collaborative was to ensure that the result of the studies could be standardized across the GTA in order to facilitate comparisons between municipalities; the development of complementary strategies; and ultimately the creation of a comprehensive regional report.

The objectives of the urban forest studies are:

1) To quantify the existing distribution, structure (composition, condition, etc.) and function (carbon sequestration, air pollution removal, etc.) of the urban forest.

The collaborative selected the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service methodology for data collection and its suite of analytical tools, known as i-Tree Eco (including the Urban Forest Effects or UFORE model). Using data collected on the ground combined with local weather, pollution and hydrological data, i-Tree provides information on the forest's health and its capacity to contribute to better air quality, water management, reductions in energy costs, amongst other calculations. Air photography and satellite imagery are used to determine the forest cover and distribution.

2) To provide a baseline for future monitoring.

Recommendations are made in the studies for planning management and monitoring cycles. All sample plots are set up in a manner that allows revisiting their exact location and thus permits long-term monitoring. It is foreseen that the technologies for data analysis and remote sensing will also be replicable and compatible in the long-term.

3) To outline the preliminary actions needed to enhance the capacity of the urban forest to provide essential ecosystem services.

The study findings are used as the basis for urban forest management plans and policies related to designing healthy and sustainable communities. TRCA staff undertakes a stakeholder consultation process to build a constituency around the recommendations that would be put forward in the reports and to increase the momentum and potential for their successful implementation. The objective includes managing crisis situations such as the current threat of emerald ash borer to ash tree species (Fraxinus) in all of TRCA's watersheds but also recognizes the need for long-term, ongoing management for resilience and sustainability.

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Since 2008, TRCA has managed urban forest studies for the Region of Peel (including cities of Mississauga and Brampton, and Town of Caledon), Town of Ajax, Region of York (including City of Vaughan, and towns of Markham and Richmond Hill) and City of Pickering, as well as sitting on the City of Toronto's steering committee for their urban forest study in 2009. Technical working groups were set up for each study that included staff from TRCA and from each municipality. Credit Valley Conservation staff participated on the Technical Working Group for the Peel studies. Central Lake Ontario and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authorities joined in the consultation for the Ajax, Pickering and York Region studies respectively.

2011 Updates

Town of Ajax Study The Town of Ajax Urban Forest Study Report was completed in 2010. That report was used in the development of the Town of Ajax Urban Forest Management Plan, which was fully endorsed by Council in Spring 2011. Ajax is currently moving forward on implementing its first five-year increment, including operating and capital works.

Peel Region Studies The Region of Peel study was completed this year. The Urban Forest Study Technical Reports for each of the municipalities of Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon as well as the Peel Region Urban Forest Strategy (executive summary in Attachment 1) were submitted in June. Peel Council endorsed the Strategy in October. The staff report highlighted the next steps, including the recommendations to form an Urban Forest Working Group to work toward achieving the Strategy vision, to develop regional and area municipal urban forest targets, and to develop and implement area municipal urban forest management plans. Council endorsed two amendments, to develop a strategy for the management of EAB and to contact growers to ask them not to sell ash species.

City of Pickering Study The Pickering Urban Forest Study Report was circulated to stakeholders in September and a stakeholders workshop was held in October of this year to engage stakeholders for input. The Report is projected to be finalized by year end and to be presented to Pickering Council in early 2012.

York Region Studies In May of this year, an information session was held for senior management from York Region, the City of Vaughan and the towns of Markham, Richmond Hill and Aurora. The purpose was to ensure that senior municipal staff be informed of the purpose of the urban forest studies and of implications for inter-departmental and inter-agency collaboration and funding. Much interest was expressed in being involved as the project develops. The technical reports for Markham, Vaughan and Richmond Hill and a summary report for York Region have been drafted. A stakeholders workshop will be held prior to submission of all reports in early 2012.

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RATIONALE Urban Forest Initiatives Cities, locally and worldwide, are recognizing more fully the benefits of the urban forest to the health and well-being of human communities. TRCA's work with urban forests and ecosystem services has positioned TRCA to either lead or participate in initiatives and programs that are helping to effect that change. Continuing to bring urban forest expertise to such initiatives as Green Infrastructure Ontario, Clean Air Partnership projects and many others, will be a substantial contribution to achieving The Living City objectives. Staff has been presenting the results of these studies at various conferences and TRCA's expertise is being sought from many agencies and municipalities.

Peel Urban Forest Strategy Implementation The urban forest studies conducted in this partnership prepare the way for informed, detailed planning and management of the urban forest in the region. TRCA staff is intimate with the subject, having managed, through the Technical Working Group, all aspects of the project from work planning to study design, data collection, analysis, technical writing, developing recommendations, technical review and stakeholder consultation. Staff also recognizes the importance of the urban forest to achieving the objectives of the Peel Climate Change Strategy, watershed plans and stormwater management.

In addition, TRCA is also developing a climate change risk assessment framework for natural systems and applying it to the urban forest. The results will help to guide best practices for adapting urban forest management to climate change, including appropriate species selection and placement.

Staff expertise in urban forestry, the experience gained through the development of the urban forest strategies, and the climate change assessment tools position TRCA to be an important contributor to the effective implementation of the Peel Strategy.

Compilation report of urban forest studies The urban forest studies are very progressive and the partners involved in this collaborative effort are responsible for the largest study of its kind worldwide, bringing together nine area municipalities, three regional municipalities and two conservation authorities. Together, these studies have the potential to increase the profile of the urban forest issues to communicate and leverage human and financial resources to achieve urban forest targets.

A compilation report would be a tool for: engaging the federal and provincial governments about the need to fill some important 1.gaps in urban forest research (targets, pests), governance (policies) and funding (plan implementation, pest management); providing ideas for corporations and organizations on how to best contribute to 2.environmental and community sustainability in the Greater Toronto Area; andtaking a coordinated approach among municipalities in addressing issues such as the EAB, 3.especially where economies of scale are evident;

Emerald Ash BorerThe Ajax, Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon urban forest technical reports prepared by TRCA each proposed the development of invasive species strategies. The draft study reports undertaken in Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill and Pickering contain the same direction.

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The presence of EAB in particular has rapidly become a high priority issue requiring specific action. TRCA staff is discussing with municipal staff how to address the issue in different parts of TRCA's watersheds. It is important to have a comprehensive plan that addresses all ash trees, from those in larger rural woodlands to urban street trees. All ash trees provide benefits to our shared watersheds and communities; their location in the landscape (in headwaters, on streets, in schoolyards, etc.) simply determines the kind of benefits they provide for people. CAs and municipalities provide a complementary role in ash and EAB management. TRCA has a role to play in managing the issue on TRCA lands, in promoting stewardship on private lands, and in contributing supporting expertise and advice to municipalities as they develop and implement their own EAB strategies.

DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE TRCA staff will participate in several aspects of the Peel Urban Forest Strategy Implementation including the development of:

the Peel Urban Forest Working Group;urban forest targets;detailed management plans;sustainable development policies and standards;monitoring programs and applied research;funding securement;outreach and education programs.

Urban Forest Studies Compilation TRCA staff will pursue support for the compilation report by developing a preliminary business case for the report and, based on that, contacting stakeholders for their support. It is intended that the compilation report will provide a GTA-wide a summary of the state and function of the urban forest and recommendations made in studies from across municipalities; and identify a consultation process for approaching governments and organizations for ongoing and strategic support for the urban forest.

Emerald Ash Borer TRCA will continue its long term forest management to help ensure ecological diversity and resiliency to all threats to Toronto region forests, including that of EAB. TRCA is developing an EAB management strategy. This strategy will be used to inform management of TRCA lands as well as other aspects of TRCA's work impacted by EAB including plan input and review, habitat restoration and education/stewardship. A communication will be brought to the Authority early in the new year by the TRCA Forest Health Working Group to outline this strategy.

Staff will continue to stay well informed of the evolving science and management techniques of EAB and share this expertise with partner municipalities as they develop and implement their own plans. TRCA staff will maintain an ongoing dialogue with partner municipalities on EAB issues and coordinated response plans and public education.

FINANCIAL DETAILS Funding for the participation in urban forest initiatives, in the implementation of the Peel Strategy, and in the initial steps of the compilation report will be derived from the Terrestrial Natural Heritage account supported by the capital contributions from the City of Toronto and regions of Peel, York and Durham.

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Funding for the EAB strategy development will be shared between the Terrestrial Natural Heritage and Forestry Program accounts in TRCA's operating budget.

Report prepared by: Lionel Normand, extension 5327Emails: lnormand@trca.on.caFor Information contact: Lionel Normand, extension 5327Emails: lnormand@trca.on.caDate: August 26, 2011Attachments: 1

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Attachment 1 - Peel Region Urban Forest Strategy

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RES.#A242/11 - 2012 FEE SCHEDULE FOR PUBLIC FACILITIES AND PROGRAMMINGToronto and Region Conservation Authority 2012 Fee Schedule for Public Facilities and Programming.

Moved by: Jack HeathSeconded by: Glenn De Baeremaeker

THAT the 2012 Fee Schedule for Public Facilities and Programming be accepted and become effective upon Board approval.

CARRIEDBACKGROUNDEach year staff conducts a review of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) Fee Schedule for Public Facilities and Programming to determine any changes. This year staff proposes no changes to be made and will adopt the Fee Schedule from 2011 as is.

RATIONALEStaff has closely evaluated pricing structures of programs and offerings similar in operations to TRCA across the GTA. Admission fees have been compared to other GTA attractions, educational centres and conservation areas such as the ROM, the AGO, Ontario Science Centre, Conservation Halton, Credit Valley Conservation and others. It has been determined that TRCA fees remain competitive and should remain as current in 2012. In lieu of increasing fees, strategies for "value-add" packaging and incentives will be implemented to increase attendance therefore increasing revenue.

Petticoat Creek Conservation Area PoolIn August of 2009, staff commenced funding negotiations with the City of Pickering for the required Petticoat Creek RInC pool project funds of $1 million. However, following negotiations and several delays in bringing the partnership funding proposal before City of Pickering Council, it was brought to TRCA's attention that the City of Pickering had not allocated any financial resources towards the project in their 2010 - 2011 budgets. Due to the lack of financial commitment by the City of Pickering in regard to providing the remaining $1 million for the project and the tight timelines at hand, staff proposed to implement internal funding methods to cover the required remaining 33% of the project costs. TRCA has sufficient cash flow to mitigate the need for borrowing the required $1 million. Subsequently, at Authority Meeting #2/10, held on March 26, 2010, Resolution #A27/10 for the redevelopment of Petticoat Creek Conservation Area pool was approved, in part, as follows:

...THAT the fee structure ensure that the project pay back the $1 million within approximately 5 years of opening;

THAT staff report back on the fee structure in 2011;...

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Petticoat Creek Conservation Area Admission Fee Comparison2009 2010 2011 Proposed

2012General Admission - Adult $5.00 $5.50 $6.50 $6.50General Admission - Senior $4.00 $4.25 $5.50 $5.50General Admission - Child $0 $0 $0 $0Pool Admission $3.50 $3.75 $4.75 $4.75

The total cost for an Adult to access the Petticoat Creek Conservation Area Aquatic Facility is $11.25The total cost for a Senior to access the Petticoat Creek Conservation Area Aquatic Facility is $10.25The total cost for a Child to access the Petticoat Creek Conservation Area Aquatic Facility is $4.75

In anticipation of the pools being open in 2011 the general admission and pool admission fees were increased last year.

Below is a comparison of public swimming admission fees for some of our municipal partners. There are no facility admission fees associated.

Pool Admission Fee ComparisonMunicipality Child and/or Youth

AdmissionAdult Admission

City of Oshawa $2.45 $3.80City of Pickering $2.23 $3.22City of Ajax $2.25 $4.05City of Toronto $1.00 $2.00City of Brampton $2.00 $2.15City of Vaughan $2.25 $4.22

Petticoat Creek Conservation Area Income Statement Comparison REVENUE 2007-2009 Budget

(3 Year Average)2010-2011 Budget(2 Year Average)*

2012 Projected Budget

Total Revenue $443,124 $99,712 $610,000Total Expenditures $434,622 $152,209 $473,000NET $8,501 ($52,497) $137,000

*Pool closed 2010 and 2011

Petticoat Creek Conservation Area Annual Projected 7 Year Income Statement 2012 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Year 7

Gross Revenue $610,000 $646,600 $685,396 $726,520 $770,111 $816,318 $865,297Gross Expenditure

$473,000 $487,190 $501,806 $516,860 $532,366 $548,337 $564,787

Net Income $137,000 $159,410 $183,590 $209,660 $237,745 $267,981 $300,510Pay Back to Reserve

75,000 $100,000 $125,000 $150,000 $175,000 $175,000 $200,000

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Staff is expecting a net revenue of $137,000 in 2012 with a minimum of $75,000 going towards TRCA reserves to pay back for the construction of the facility.

Should annual net incomes exceed projected amounts, more funds may potentially be paid back to the TRCA reserve, therefore, shortening the duration of the payback schedule.

Report prepared by: Amanda Perricone, extension 5252Emails: aperricone@trca.on.caFor Information contact: Derek Edwards, extension 5672Emails: dedwards@trca.on.caDate: November 8, 2011

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RES.#A243/11 - PLANNING AND PERMIT ADMINISTRATION COST RECOVERY. Report on the consultation process and comments related to TRCA’s 100% cost recovery for Planning, Permitting and Environmental Assessment Fee Schedule – adjustments for 2012-2013.

Moved by: Jack HeathSeconded by: David Barrow

WHEREAS Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has established a new fee schedule for Planning, Permitting and Environmental Assessment for 2012-2013, incorporating a model of moving to 100% cost recovery through fee-for-service charges;

AND WHEREAS TRCA staff has consulted with BILD (Building Industry and Land Development Association), through a working group, the provincial Conservation Authority Liaison Committee (CALC), and TRCA's municipal partners, and have reported back to the Authority on consultations to date;

THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the cost recovery recommendations inclusive of the Proposed Fee Schedule for 2012-2013 be approved, and the fee schedule be implemented as of January 2, 2012 with requested refinements of guidelines as requested by BILD and CALC;

THAT TRCA and BILD prepare a fact sheet communication for the building industry outlining the intent of the new fee schedule and clarifying the value of fee changes for service delivery improvements;

THAT TRCA staff continue to address issues related to financial transparency, staff training requirements, service delivery on plan review and performance standards with a future BILD TRCA working group, Conservation Ontario and the provincial CALC, with periodic reporting to the Authority on an as needed basis;

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AND FURTHER THAT TRCA Environmental Assessment (EA) staff be directed to continue to liaise with municipal works and infrastructure departments to refine service delivery needs and cost recovery for permits and EA fast-tracked review requirements.

CARRIEDBACKGROUNDAt Authority Meeting #9/11, held on October 28, 2011, Resolution #A228/11 was approved as follows:

WHEREAS Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has established administration fees to provide service delivery for municipalities and the development industry for the review of a wide range of applications requiring environmental planning technical expertise and regulatory approvals;

AND WHEREAS TRCA staff monitor the level of service demands for planning, ecology, engineering, hydrogeology, geotechnical and compliance reviews and report on an annual basis on the implications of cost recovery;

AND WHEREAS the Authority has directed staff to report back with an assessment of full cost recovery related to the service delivery for comprehensive planning and permitting review operations;

AND WHEREAS TRCA’s assessment of service delivery adheres to the provincial Ministry of Natural Resources Policies and Procedures for Charging of Conservation Authority Fees, TRCA’s Fee Policy Guideline 2009 and provides a range of services according to TRCA's Memorandums of Understanding with area municipalities;

THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the cost recovery recommendations, inclusive of the Proposed Fee Schedule for 2012 be endorsed, and that staff be instructed to consult with the development industry, the Province of Ontario and TRCA's municipalities prior to final approval as per the provincial and TRCA guidelines;

AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to the Authority as to the comments received during the consultation process, and provide recommendations for approval of the final form of schedules, effective January 1, 2012.

TRCA staff issued a draft report for the 2012-2013 cost recovery proposal early in September for consultation with BILD, Conservation Ontario, the provincial Conservation Authority Liaison Committee, and engineering departments of TRCA's municipal partners. Through September, October and November TRCA has conducted three working sessions with BILD representatives, several meetings with Conservation Ontario, and one working session with the provincial CALC Committee. TRCA has made comprehensive presentations to all parties on issues within TRCA's report related to trends in workload and service delivery demand, planning, permitting and environmental assessment file volume and complexity, shifts in level of service, streamlining needs for plan review and plan submissions, and an overview of the methodology used to calculate 100% cost recovery through TRCA's fee charges and budgeting process. Further work has also been presented to BILD on case studies for planning application and site permitting examples and these efforts will be presented in December to the provincial CALC working group.

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These working sessions have gone a long way to introduce the urgent need for moving towards full cost recovery in TRCA's fee charges and for working with the building industry, municipalities and Province of Ontario on issues of streamlining of efforts to deal with complex technical requirements of file applications, as well as, the many layers of legislative requirements that need to be addressed for diverse applications across the jurisdiction. As CALC is developing guidelines for conservation authorities across the Province on fee administration, it is most timely that TRCA be involved to provide input into the fee development methodology for urban and redeveloping jurisdictions within the Toronto region.

BILD’s response to TRCA's fee administration report and to supporting work sessions is in their correspondence of November 17th, 2011 (Attachment 1). BILD’s position is that any increase in application fees should be commensurate with an equal level of service. BILD wants TRCA to continue to work with them on the following issues as detailed in their letter:

Transparency – a full disclosure of all financial modeling information;Training – continued training of staff on issues of plan screening (for advisory and pre-consultation purposes) and execution of the fee schedule;Timeframes – maximum timeframes for review and re-submissions;clarification of definitions for application categories;reformatting of TRCA's fee schedule guidelines to provide more clarity for the application of fees;provide benchmarking (performance standards) with annual review;TRCA/BILD Working Group to meet quarterly to discuss the progression of these work components.

TRCA will work to address these requirements with on-going liaison with BILD, and in consultation with CALC. It certainly was the intent of the changes to the fee schedule and revenue generation to improve service delivery in Planning and Development, however, an “equal” level of improvement may be difficult to project. TRCA staff is continuing to search out areas of service delivery improvements, but these efforts need to be addressed with TRCA's municipal partners as well. The importance of an improved pre-consultation process for planning applications with TRCA's municipal partners and applicants, and internally for construction permits will be essential for streamlining and improved processing.

TRCA will, as requested, complete a fact sheet communication for the building industry outlining the intent of the new fee schedule and clarifying the value of fee changes for service delivery improvements.

TRCA has also informed municipal engineering departments about the changes to the Environmental Assessment Review fee schedule and is consulting on the implications to current workloads, budgets and service level agreements. Fee arrangements and service agreements will be tailored to each municipality and their specific service needs. Timeline pressures for fast-tracking approvals will be addressed through consultation.

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TRCA staff recommends approval of the current fee schedule proposal for 2012-13, subject to minor changes to formatting, guidelines and areas of clarification which will be made in consultation with CALC and BILD, for implementation January 2, 2012.

Report prepared by: Carolyn Woodland, extension 5214Emails: cwoodland@trca.on.caFor Information contact: Carolyn Woodland, extension 5214Emails: cwoodland@trca.on.caDate: November 22, 2011Attachments: 1

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Attachment 1

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RES.#A244/11 - EVERGREEN AT THE BRICK WORKS LEASE AGREEMENTExtension of Loan Guarantee. Recommends extension of the loan guarantee provisions of the lease agreement with Evergreen and the City of Toronto for development and operation of the Don Valley Brick Works.(Executive Res.#B182/11)

Moved by: David BarrowSeconded by: Linda Pabst

THAT the Lease Agreement with Evergreen and the City of Toronto for the development and operation of the Don Valley Brick Works and the Capital Loan Guarantee with Evergreen, the City of Toronto and the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) be amended to extend the term of the current joint and several loan guarantee of $7.5 million (inclusive of all interest, costs and charges) in respect of the Brick Works project by 18 months, from its current expiration date of December 31, 2014, to expiration on the earlier of June 30, 2016, or the date of termination or payout of Evergreen's project construction financing with RBC ("the financing");

THAT Evergreen be required to reduce the outstanding financing with RBC to $4.81 million by December 31, 2013, and to $1.0 million by December 31, 2014;

THAT the loan guarantee extension be subject to confirmation of approval by the City of Toronto;

THAT all amending and extension agreements, and all other agreements and undertakings, be on terms and conditions satisfactory to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff and solicitor;

AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take any and all actions necessary to implement the amending agreement and Capital Loan Guarantee extension, including obtaining needed approvals and signing and execution of documents.

CARRIED _________________________________________

RES.#A245/11 - MEETING SCHEDULE 2012-2013To provide a schedule of meetings for the forthcoming Authority year, beginning February 24, 2012 and ending February 29, 2013.(Executive Res.#B183/11)

Moved by: David BarrowSeconded by: Linda Pabst

THAT the Schedule of Meetings 2012-2013, dated October 27, 2011, be approved;

THAT the Executive Committee be designated the powers of the Authority during the month of August, 2012, as defined in Section 2.10 of the Rules of Conduct;

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AND FURTHER THAT the CAO's Office distribute this schedule at the earliest opportunity to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's (TRCA) watershed municipalities and the Ministry of Natural Resources.

CARRIED _________________________________________

SECTION II - ITEMS FOR AUTHORITY INFORMATION

RES.#A246/11 - SECTION II - ITEMS FOR AUTHORITY INFORMATION

Moved by: David BarrowSeconded by: Linda Pabst

THAT Section II items EX8.1 & EX8.2, contained in Executive Committee Minutes #10/11, held on November 4, 2011, be received.

CARRIEDSection II Items EX8.1 & EX8.2REQUEST FOR DISPOSAL OF TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY LAND(Executive Res.#B184/11)SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE. Policies regarding inspection and maintenance of septic systems in Ontario.(Executive Res.#B185/11)

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SECTION IV - ITEMS FOR THE INFORMATION OF THE BOARD

RES.#A247/11 - IN THE NEWSOverview of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority activities and news stories from July - October, 2011.

Moved by: David BarrowSeconded by: Linda Pabst

THAT the summary of media coverage and Good News Stories from July - October, 2011 be received.

CARRIEDBACKGROUNDAs per Authority direction during 2006, a consolidated report covering highlights of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's (TRCA) activities and news coverage for the preceding few months is provided to the Authority every few months. The stories for July to October, 2011 are as follows:

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Healthy Rivers and ShorelinesWater News - Toronto Star’s July 10

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story, “Lake of HOPE; Leslie Scrivener finds six vibrant reasons for optimism about the future of Lake Ontario, once thought to be dying”, highlights some of the Lake's ecological success stories. TRCA was interviewed for the story.

Restoration - TRCA staff successfully negotiated $250,000 in compensation funds to offset future impacts of constructing new bridge abutments in the Humber River. The bridge expansion is required to facilitate the expansion in the Metrolinx Go Georgetown South system. Three new rail tracks are required to meet high ridership demand between Union Station, Pearson International Airport, and the communities of Georgetown and Milton. The Humber Bay Marshes Project is considered a signature project of TRCA and the Ministry of Natural Resources. It will provide habitat for aquatic and amphibian estuarine species, and ties directly to the goals and objectives of the Humber Watershed Strategy and the Lake Ontario Shoreline Management Plan. With the funding secured, construction of the Humber Bay Marshes project will begin this fall and carry-on through 2012.In September 12th Scarborough Mirror story, “A dip in Scarborough Beaches provides cool family fun”, mentions TRCA’s work on the Rouge River to improve the water quality which has helped swimming conditions at Scarborough beaches.

Education and Stewardship - TRCA and CVC staff held a successful workshop with potential academic collaborators on a new research study examining the hydrological effects of urbanization on natural features (water balance for wetlands, woodlands and watercourses). There were substantial synergies between our research objectives and the research experience and knowledge of the academics in attendance. There was also much enthusiasm for collaboration and interest in the topic. Strong partnerships will likely be forged as a result. There is also interest by Ducks Unlimited, Conservation Ontario and Environment Canada, as this was a priority research area they have identified. Some of these organizations may be in a position to provide project funding. TRCA and CVC staff will be presenting the study initiative to these groups.TRCA received $250,000 from Natural Resources Canada to develop national water adaptation best practices and guidance document. McCutcheon Foundation contributed a second $20,000 to The McCutcheon Environmental Weeks at Claremont. 66 people attended an erosion and sediment control workshop resulting in revenue of $12,000. Inside Toronto's September 23rd story “Learn more about water at event in Kingston-Galloway neighbourhood” encourages residents to learn more about water - "where it comes from, what you can do to protect and conserve it and how it is celebrated by various cultures", at a free event on September 24th, in Scarborough's Kingston-Galloway neighbourhood. The afternoon of activities was presented by University of Toronto Scarborough, TRCA and the Live Green Toronto Animation Program. North York Mirror's August 12th story “Go with the flow at rain water workshop” discusses how homeowners looking for practical ways to manage and benefit from rainwater flow were invited to attend a workshop on August 23rd at Victoria Village Library. The workshop was lead by Chris Denich, a water resource engineer and low impact development specialist at Aquafor Beech Ltd., on behalf of TRCA and Live Green Toronto.

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Celebrations and Events - Representatives from Six Nations, Mississauga of the New Credit and Huron-Wendat attended the unveiling of historical plaques in Etienne Brule Park (Toronto) acknowledging the First Nations history in the Humber watershed. This was part of The Shared Path/Le Sentier Partagé project. The Heritage Sub-Committee of the Humber Watershed Alliance received Heritage Canada's National Achievement Award for their work to protect, restore and celebrate local heritage resources. In Vaughan Citizen’s September 13th story “Vaughan protects oldest woodlot in city” the reporter writes about the partnership between York Region and TRCA to open Baker’s Woods at a grand opening celebration. On September 22nd, the Brampton Guardian publishes story “Creek cleanup Saturday”. The story includes information about three Great Canadian Shoreline cleanups organized by TRCA in Brampton, with cleanups also happening in other communities across the country.

Infrastructure - Heritage bridge inventory is completed for the Humber River watershed. Watercourse crossing signs for the Don and Rouge watersheds were delivered to Markham and York Region at the end of July and will be installed on local and regional roads across the Town this summer.

Development Planning - Great Lakes Sustainability Fund (GLSF) is providing TRCA with $10,000 to develop a research study that will support stormwater management criteria to ensure that the hydrology of natural features (wetlands, woodlands, and watercourses) is protected following urbanization. GLSF has indicated that multi-year funding may be available to support this collaboration between TRCA, Credit Valley Conservation and a number of other research collaborators. The study will ultimately ensure that water balance (i.e. directing the same amount of water) to natural features is maintained by employing appropriate pre-development analyses, modelling and post-development mitigation measures.Toronto’s major dailies mention TRCA in articles covering proposed plans for the waterfront. Stories mention the environmental assessment, has been in the works since 2003. September 23rd Scarborough Mirror story “Auto wrecker feeling pressure from environmental group”, discusses the Rouge Park Alliances disapproval over Standard Auto’s settlement over clean up. As part of the settlement Standard Auto agreed to put in place "risk management measures to mitigate the likelihood of this type of environmental event occurring again" and to keep the ministry, TRCA and the Alliance informed regularly of its progress.

Regional BiodiversityConservation Lands - Acquired 103 hectares (254 acres) known as the Bolton Camp from

Hi-Lands Bolton. The property is located north of King Road on the east side of Bolton. More details about the future use of the property to come.Brampton Guardian's July 25th story “Trail too intrusive: Critics” is about how a plan to continue an urban-style multi-use trail through the northern part of Claireville Conservation Area is being opposed by some residents and a university professor.

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The Globe and Mail's October 1st story “Brick by Brick tells the tale of a landmark; A new documentary traces the Evergreen Brick Works from its industrial early days to its eco-friendly present-day incarnation”. The article mentions the site is actually owned by TRCA which leases the buildings to Evergreen under a long-term contract for $1 a year. The land falls under the TRCA's jurisdiction since it is designated an ecological area, partly because it is in a flood zone among the ravine lands.

Terrestrial and Aquatic Plants and Wildlife - Monarch butterflies, a species of concern nationally, is visiting milkweed plants throughout the jurisdiction. Collaboration between technical staff at TRCA and the Town of Richmond Hill confirmed, through fieldwork in July, that fish passage in a tributary of the Upper East Don river has been achieved as a result of Richmond Hill's rehabilitation of Pioneer Pond. Previous to the rehabilitation, there was no passage for fish due to the on-line stormwater pond. A new channel has been built that by-passes Pioneer Pond and provides upstream passage for the small-bodied fish species that commonly occupy this river system. TRCA staff has found redside dace (an endangered species) in a new location in the east branch of Carruthers Creek. Previous records were limited to small areas of the upper west branches of the watershed that will be affected by construction of a new highway. This find provides some new hope for the resiliency of the population within the watershed. Staff biologists found two occurrences of Hairy St. Johnswort, which are thought to be the first North American records of this plant species. Staff will be looking to publish these findings in an upcoming scientific journal. This fall, an adult female myrtle warbler was recaptured at Tommy Thompson Park. This tiny warbler, which winters in the southern US, was originally banded at Point Pelee Bird Observatory in 2006. In partnership with Credit Valley Conservation, Region of Peel and the municipalities of Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon, TRCA completed the Peel Region Urban Forest Strategy. This strategy characterizes the structure and function of the existing urban forest and provides goals and actions to guide individuals and organizations in stewardship and management. The Strategy has been endorsed by Peel Council.The Durham Business Times story “Ajax roundup a mild goose chase” on July 1st is about an annual goose roundup in a neighborhood park on Frenchman’s Bay conducted by TRCA. The goal of the roundup, which takes place from Ajax to Mississauga in the second half of June, is to relocate the bothersome birds. Each year between 1,500 and 2,000 feathered foes make the long drive by 18-wheeler to wetlands outside the GTA. The Londoner’s story on July 7th, ”Homeowners, hikers & explorers beware!!” lists TRCA as a resource for information on hogweed, an invasive plant species.July 17th story in Toronto Star, “Dam! Beavers dig downtown Toronto; Big-toothed mammals pick Queens Quay condo corridor as home”, includes a quote from a TRCA representative who says it is a good news story that we are seeing wildlife in the harbor. It looks like, since TRCA started working on the waterfront, there are many more opportunities for them to find habitat.In the Globe and Mail’s August 20th article, “WEIRD WEATHER / BUGGING THE ANIMAL KINGDOM”; the rise of the mosquito population possibly because of the effects of global warming and unpredictable weather patterns is investigated. TRCA ecologist was interviewed for the story.

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Toronto Star's September 26th story “Poisonous parsnips lurk along city trails; Signs warning of danger posted near Humber” is about being aware of the dangers of wild parsnip (an invasive non native species) when using trails along the Humber River. Brampton Guardian's October 31st story “Region targets ash borer” is about how Peel Region Council is endorsing a new urban forest strategy that will, in part, aim to curb infestations of the emerald ash borer. Terrestrial ecologist with TRCA told councillors recently that these little critters, a non-native species that feeds on ash trees, poses one of the biggest threats to Peel's urban forest.

Research and Innovation - Three years of redside dace research, in collaboration with the University of Toronto, and support from MNR, has resulted in a publication in the journal Aquatic Conservation, Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, to be released early in 2012 with TRCA listed as second author. The article presents TRCA's methods and results for establishing population estimates of this endangered minnow in several watersheds across the TRCA jurisdiction. The redside dace and its habitat are protected under the provincial Endangered Species Act which affords a level of management and recovery actions such that the species should remain and hopefully increase its distribution and abundance in TRCA's watersheds though the coming years of growth and land use change. Knowing what the populations of redside dace are today is critical to being able to evaluate the management success in the future.

Restoration - On July 19th, Mimico residents gathered with politicians, Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Corporation (TWRC) and TRCA to celebrate the start of construction on phase two of Mimico Waterfront Park, providing a significant revitalization opportunity to this waterfront community. Mimico Waterfront Park was the focus of a story in the Etobicoke Guardian article on September 10th - “Phase two of waterfront park breaks ground”.In partnership with the City of Mississauga, TRCA completed construction of 1 km trail connection along the Etobicoke Creek Valley between Dixie Road and Courtney Park Drive.In the Scarborough Mirror’s July 7th story “Plan to pave Chine Meadow path draws residents' ire” includes mention that the extension of the waterfront trail from Port Union to Rouge Beach, one which makes it possible to walk alongside Lake Ontario from the Bellamy Ravine to Rouge Park, should be open next July. TRCA spokesperson mentions it will remain fenced for landscaping this year. Article also mentions that an erosion-control project east of Bellamy Ravine under the Meadowcliffe Drive bluffs is on schedule to be substantially complete by the end of next year. It will create 600 metres of shoreline public access west from the foot of the ravine, but will not reach the beach at Bluffer's Park.Inside Toronto story on September 1st “Construction will close parts of Glen Stewart Ravine” is about how Glen Stewart Ravine, is set to undergo a series of upgrades in the next few months through restoration work handled by TRCA on behalf of the City of Toronto. The story lists upgrades including the installation of new wooden bridges and staircases, trail resurfacing, slope stabilization work, new site furnishings, signs and fencing and overall site restoration. A boardwalk will also be built to increase user safety and protect the ravine's natural features.“History runs Deep in the Humber River” ran on September 13th in the Globe and Mail, discussing the Carrying Place Trail. It also mentioned TRCA’s role in the Humber Valley and its acquisition of 9,000 hectares in the area that “laid the groundwork for a new era in the life of Toronto’s rivers”.

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October 19th Pickering News Advertiser story “Pickering council gives up on controversial waterfront property” discusses plans to demolish a former residence on Pickering’s western spit. The home was purchased jointly by Pickering and TRCA in 1999. The property was purchased in an attempt to complete acquisition of the western spit in order to preserve the environmentally sensitive heritage lands located there.

Infrastructure - Restoration Services formed a partnership with York Region's Environmental Services group for Infrastructure Hazard Monitoring. TRCA staff will be monitoring over 300 water/wastewater erosion monitoring locations to prioritize erosion control and stream rehabilitation works on behalf of York Region. TRCA is also expanding its Stream Erosion and Infrastructure Database to include York Region infrastructure and will be providing York Region with web-based access to the database in the fall of 2011 as part of this anticipated long-term partnership. The goal is to identify overlapping priorities to reduce duplication of effort and realize efficiencies, and to identify opportunities for in-the-ground partnership projects. Secured an additional $100,000 from Onni Corporation for the Lower Mimico Trail System. First link of the trail should open this spring.

Education and Stewardship - The Quinte EMC newspaper August 11th story, “The monarch butterfly is a great teacher” is about how teachers from across the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board region along with conservation authority environmental and outdoors instructors attended a workshop to help incorporate the butterfly into their curriculum. Includes quote from TRCA representative. Monarch Teacher Network of Canada (MTN of C) completed their seventh and final Monarch workshop of the season in Saint John, New Brunswick, August 25-26. There was great media coverage with CBC NEWS, Global News, News 95.7 Radio (Halifax), and local papers. This year, just under 150 participants attended workshops across Canada. Next summer, MTN of C is planning ten workshops across Canada, and has already confirmed support from The W. Garfield Weston Foundation. TRCA administers and coordinates this national program with funding from The W. Garfield Weston Foundation. TRCA Stewardship received $73,500 over three years from EcoAction for the Don-Highland Pollinator Plants Restoration Project. It will include planting pollinator plant meadows with students and volunteers. Sites include the Salvation Army lands and Morningside Park.Scarborough Mirror story “Community gardens at places of worship focus of workshop” on October 14th, writes about how faith groups in Toronto are an untapped resource that could help reverse a world-wide decline in honeybees and other pollinators. It mentions TRCA is working with a Scarborough church to establish a community garden there, and hopes this weekend to inspire members of other faith groups to create similar projects. In the Toronto Star October 21st story “Eco-gardener follows natural route; Native plants need less water and fertilizer to thrive”, greener gardening is discussed and includes a quote from a TRCA representative about native species in garden centres.

Celebrations and Events - Beach Riverdale Mirror on August 26th

includes story “Butterfly festival takes flight Saturday at Leslie Spit” about the Tommy Thompson Park Butterfly festival.

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In the Scarborough Mirror on October 14th, the story “Follow the fish this Sunday” helped to promote the two hour walk and witnessing of salmon migration through Morningside Park, hosted by TRCA and the Toronto Field Naturalists to get more people interested in helping to restore the creek.

Development Planning - TRCA is closer to connecting the Lower Mimico Pedestrian Trail to the waterfront. Staff recently secured approximately $170,000 from the Times Group for this project and has received a development application for the last privately-owned lot along the Park Lawn Road stretch. TRCA will therefore soon secure public ownership of all of the lands required for this project to go ahead. In the National Post September 12th story “Stargazing site's fate goes to OMB; Entering mediation; Owner eyes observatory site for development” discusses the plans for the David Dunlap Observatory. The report mentioned that TRCA, which helped the town assess the site's natural heritage value, says some level of development could be feasible. But according to a TRCA representative: "It's a question of how development should occur.... We would like to see the majority of the natural heritage system protected in situ."

Human Interest - TRCA was the first conservation authority to have a member of staff certified under the Society for Freshwater Science (formerly the North American Benthological Society) for family level benthic invertebrate identification. This certification will allow TRCA to maintain "family level" as our standard for benthic sample identification and to improve the overall quality of samples collected through our aquatic monitoring programs.

Sustainable CommunitiesConservation Lands - TRCA is mentioned in several stories regarding the Toronto city

manager’s recommendation to transfer Toronto Urban Farm to TRCA.Research and Innovation - Toronto Star's August 12th story “Solarhenge puts panel

promises to the test” reports how Ontario has its own modern-day Stonehenge at the Kortright Centre for Conservation in Woodbridge. The report talks about solar modules found at Kortright. The Kortright Centre calls the area PVPV, and it aims to become the country's premier facility for testing and showcasing made-in-Canada solar technologies. The story includes a quote from a TRCA representative.

Education and Stewardship - On July 29, 2001, TRCA announced that Marisa Mancuso and Paul Gay, of Brampton's County Court SNAP neighbourhood, are the recipients of a free Green Home Makeover. The family will receive a complete green home renovation that will include a high-efficiency HVAC system, insulation and weatherization, energy efficient appliances, Energy Star windows and doors, low flow toilets, rain barrels, permeable driveway, water efficient landscaping for the front yard and other innovative green technologies and products. The Makeover will showcase all aspects of a green lifestyle and demonstrate how homeowners can adapt any one of the green retrofit improvements in their own homes. The project will also show how green renovations can generate significant savings for years to come and also improve home comfort. The construction will occur during August and September, and the home will be unveiled at a ribbon-cutting celebration. This home was selected based on an evaluation of 10 applications received from the neighbourhood. News of the Green Home Makeover was published in The Brampton News, Daily Commercial News, Flower City Mom and Homes Gone Green website.

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TRCA received applications from 22 Lake Wilcox SNAP homeowners keen to be selected for one of two Front Yard Makeovers. These demonstrations will showcase eco-landscaping options that will contribute to water conservation, runoff reduction and greater uptake among neighbours. The successful applicants will be selected in summer with landscaping installations taking place over fall 2011. An article on SNAP program was featured in the summer issue of Sustainable Builder Magazine. Peel Environmental Weeks program, delivered by Watershed on Wheels and Albion Hill Field Centre staff, is piloting a new data collection process that will track transportation, food and water usage by participating classes. This program, supported through Peel Climate Change Mitigation funding, will give 14 classes of students from the Region of Peel the opportunity to participate this school year. 50 people attended a permeable pavement workshop, which resulted in revenues of $5,000.

Development Planning - Working in partnership with Peel, Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton, TRCA utilized $35,000 in funding from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to complete the Pearson Eco-Business Zone Policy Toolkit, which provides land use policy tools to promote a harmonized approach to green business around Toronto Pearson. In Scarborough Mirror's August 18th story “Centennial College proposing condominium residences for Guild Inn”, Centennial College, after finding out its plan for a boutique hotel cannot save Scarborough's historic Guild Inn, is proposing something else that could: condominium residences. Because developers cannot make a long-term sub-lease of the land work for condos, the report suggests that TRCA would have to sell the parcel in the centre of its 88-acre Guild Park.

Celebrations and Events - On Saturday, August 6th, the County Court Festival (part of the SNAP project) attracted 125 people. Over 100 low flow shower heads were distributed, over 50 high efficiency toilets were purchased at a great discount and lots of people learned about the Green Home Makeover project and had input to the draft Action Plan. Our private sector sponsors/donors for the Green Home Makeover, including Reliance Home Comfort, Sears Canada, Green Saver, Water Matrix, Hydro One Brampton and CMHC, participated in this event, which helped give them profile in the community. McVean Farm in the Claireville Conservation Area hosted public open house to promote its diverse urban agricultural products. Brampton Guardian’s August 24th story “Celebrate the harvest at McVean Farm” reports on how 200 people are expected to turn up at the Brampton incubator farm to help celebrate a season's worth of sweat and toil. The McVean Incubator Farm project is a partnership between TRCA and FarmStart. The program provides prospective farmers access to land, equipment, infrastructure and mentorship during the first five years of their farm business start-up. 200 people did attend the harvest table dinner. FarmStart and their 20 on-site organic farmers provided the food for the feast. The Albion Hills Community Farm was officially opened. Three hundred and fifty guests enjoyed local food, agricultural tours and children's activities. In Caledon Enterprise September 1st story “Harvest time hits Caledon this month”, the writer says she is excited about the grand opening of the Albion Hills Community Farm and mentions it receives support from TRCA.

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The North York Mirror’s September 29th story “Enjoy the harvest at Jane and Finch festival” is about the end-of-season harvest celebration at the Toronto Urban Farm that includes a barbecue, free farm fresh produce, farm tours, face painting, pumpkin carving and garden workshops. Five hundred people from the Jane-Finch neighbourhood attended. The Toronto Urban Farm is a partnership between the City of Toronto and TRCA. The farm sits on about eight acres of TRCA-owned land near the southeast corner of Jane Street and Steeles Avenue at Black Creek Pioneer Village. TRCA was awarded a World Green Building Council Chairman's Award for significant contributions to the global green building movement. In the Toronto Star’s September 10th story “Urban lumberjacks heading for Toronto” information about Greenbuild is provided. The article mentions that the conference program features long lists of educational sessions, a massive trade show and tours to various LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) buildings in the GTA, including the Archetype Sustainable House at The Living City Campus at Kortright Centre, Evergreen at the Brick Works, Tridel's Republic condo project, the Southbrook and Stratus wineries in Niagara Region, and many other examples of sustainable design and building. Mississauga News' July 17th story “Businesses go green” reports on a group of businesses working together to "green" their bottom line by creating an internationally recognized 'eco-business zone' around Pearson International Airport. An interactive workshop called Getting Results From Lean And Green 101 was hosted on September 8th. 200 people attended Partners in Project Green (PPG) and Bullfrog Power's Sustainability from the Inside Out Networking Event that included panelists Coca-Cola, Sims Recycling and Nissan, all of which shared their sustainability program and how it impacts their supply chain. Brampton Guardian’s July 17th story “New facility makes a splash” reports on how government officials recently held an official ceremony to mark completion of the Heart Lake Conservation Area's new swimming pool and water recreation facility.

Partnerships - PPG has launched a partnership with the Emery Village Business Improvement Area to roll-out eco-business programming to companies in this area of Toronto. This brings another 2,100 potential business clients into the PPG network. PPG, Durham Sustain Ability and the Region of Durham have confirmed support from all of the utilities operating in the region to roll-out a Durham version of PPG in early 2012.In Richmond Hill Liberal's August 5th story “Oak Ridges centre on schedule”, the Oak Ridges residents will get a new community centre, the town's largest and most eco-friendly facility of its kind. A partnership has been established with TRCA to provide an ecological education centre within the building. Town and TRCA nature trails will lead to the education centre, where you can learn more about the land you have just walked across.

Human Interest - In The Toronto Sun's August 31th story “Residents seek to break wind ; No turbines on the lake” reports on how a storm is brewing at City Hall over Toronto Hydro's $1-million wind measuring efforts in Lake Ontario. The report mentions that TRCA voted in favour of a moratorium on off-shore wind turbines and concerns about the technology being deployed across the Lake.

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Metroland Publication's August 2nd story “Alderville residents explore archeological sites” discusses a First Nation Archaeological Liaison Training program. The trainees worked on three archeological sites, including one close to home in Plainville, a site on Jacob Island, north of Peterborough and sites with the TRCA jurisdiction. The story includes a quote from a TRCA representative. In The Globe and Mail’s story on July 16th “Growing and preserving: a natural fit; As local-food movements grow, national and provincial parks are letting small-scale urban farmers use their land" the global food reporter writes how national and provincial parks bordering Canada's most populous cities are making an innovative addition to the list of activities allowed on protected land: farming. The story includes a quote from a TRCA representative.

Business ExcellenceEducation and Stewardship - TRCA Archaeology Unit, in partnership with the APA

(Association for Professional Archaeologist) and The Williams Treaty First Nations, was instrumental in training the 2011 class of First Nations liaisons. Eight trainees have graduated in a ceremony that took place at the Alderville First Nations Community on July 27th.

Research and Innovation - Google is actively collecting "StreetView" images of many TRCA parks this summer including; Glen Haffy, Bathurst Glen, Heart Lake, Boyd, Indian Line/Claireville, Bruce's Mill, Glen Rouge and Petticoat Creek. In July 21st National Post story “Google's cars come to aid of street view bikes” mentions how Google street view captured photos of areas unreachable by car including Black Creek Pioneer Village.Trails data has been updated for TRCA properties across the jurisdiction using highly accurate GPS technology and airphoto interpretation.

Infrastructure - Construction has commenced on the Tommy Thompson Park infrastructure project. A Staff Booth, Environmental Shelter and Ecological Research Station valued at $2.3 million will represent the first significant investment of infrastructure into Toronto's only "Urban Wilderness Park". This will enable more people to experience Tommy Thompson Park and ensure its globally significant ecological resources are protected.

Celebrations and Events - On August 18, 2011, TRCA's Mentoring to Placement Program staff presented at the Mentorpalooza conference and recognition event. This community event, hosted by Skills for Change, recognizes and celebrates mentoring in the GTA for its successes in driving economic prosperity and social inclusion. Program staff shared their experiences and lessons learned from piloting our own mentoring program. Five other organizations throughout the GTA shared their program with conference attendees, followed by a panel discussion. TRCA participated as part of Doors Open Vaughan at both the Kortright Centre for Conservation and the Restoration Services Centre on the weekend of October 1st/2nd. More than 50 visitors were welcomed at TRCA's LEED Platinum Restoration Services Centre to explore sustainable architecture and learn about our archaeology and cultural heritage programs. In September, Black Creek Pioneer Village received media coverage on the Pioneer Festival via North York Mirror, CP 24, Snap North York and Toronto.com.

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Scarborough Mirror's September 30th story “Bethune Collegiate walks to a green BEAT” is about an environmental club at the collegiate institute that held a community event organized in conjunction with Live Green Toronto. It featured a range of environmental organizations, including the Toronto Zoo, TRCA, Rouge Park and the Toronto Environmental Alliance, as well as smaller groups such as the Friends of the Rouge Watershed and the Toronto Chinese for Ecological Living. Brampton Guardian’s story on October 26th “Event focuses on environment” is about this year’s keynote speaker at the Charles Sauriol Environmental Dinner - Michael Smith.In October Black Creek Pioneer Village publicity campaign included stories on Howling Hootenanny and All Hallow’s Eve that appeared on CP24, Fairchild TV and InsideToronto.com.

Financial Capacity - The Conservation Foundation hosted a number of corporate events in July. Folks really enjoyed getting their hands dirty. June was the highest on-line sales of floodplain mapping since contracting with First Base Solutions in spring 2010. We totalled over $1,000 of which TRCA received almost $700. Received $12,400 from the Toronto Field Naturalists for Kortright School Field Trip Bus Grant Program. Through some great work with Summer Interactive Learning summer camps, Black Creek Pioneer Village has increased its summer attendance by approximately 1,200 more students in July and August. These camps are operated in Peel and York regions. Another 500 from SchoolHouse Playcare Centres also had a great time at the Village. The Village looks forward to working more with these groups in the future. This spring, Black Creek Pioneer Village received a grant from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada to upgrade the accessibility of the Visitors Centre. As a result of this grant, seven more doors were outfitted with automatic door openers, making the Visitors Centre much more user-friendly for young, old and anyone with mobility difficulties. TTC advised they will continue the service agreement with TRCA for next year for review and approvals of subway works. The Green Home Makeover, part of County Court Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Action Plan (SNAP), has been selected to participate in Shell’s FuellingChange™ program and will receive $10,000 for marketing and implementation. The Makeover will be profiled on the FuellingChange website with the opportunity to receive more funding based on voting by Shell customers and the public.

Human Interest - For the second year in a row we entered a TRCA club team in the 24 hour mountain bike relay race at Albion Hills. We managed 19th out of 53 while beating two teams from Golder and Associates and 2 teams from Pinchin Environmental.

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David Lawrie, an aquatic biologist in the TRCA Ecology Division and founder of the outreach group Citizen Scientist, is being honoured at the 2011 State of the Lakes Ecosystem Conference (SOLEC) for his organization's outstanding contributions in environmental protection through stewardship and outreach activities within the Rouge River watershed. The award is titled 2011 SOLEC Success Story Honoree and will be presented to David by the U.S. Consul General in Toronto and the Canadian Consul General in Buffalo. This is a bi-national award that is well deserved by David. His dedication and knowledge is equally applied to his work at TRCA; all his colleagues wish him the very best and congratulations. 75 media stories were found through an FP Infomart search for stories that included mention of TRCA from July to October. This does not include community event listings, broadcast hits or online stories. In July, North York Mirror features story “Turning a Page at Black Creek Pioneer Village” about the new Timeless Tales themed activities held at the Village in the summer. Examiner.com also writes about the program in the article “Story weekend at Black Creek Pioneer Village”. Black Creek Pioneer Village received publicity for its One Mile Beer project, including a feature story in the Toronto Star, Metro Morning, North York Mirror, Fairchild TV and several beer blogs.

Report prepared by: Kathy Stranks, extension 5264, Rowena Calpito, extension 5632Emails: kstranks@trca.on.ca, rcalpito@trca.on.caFor Information contact: Kathy Stranks, extension 5264,

Rowena Calpito, extension 5632Emails: kstranks@trca.on.ca, rcalpito@trca.on.caDate: November 8, 2011

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RES.#A248/11 - WATERSHED COMMITTEE MINUTES

Moved by: David BarrowSeconded by: Linda Pabst

THAT Section IV items AUTH9.2.1 & AUTH9.2.2 in regard to Watershed Committee Minutes, be received.

Section IV Items AUTH9.2.1 & AUTH9.2.2DON WATERSHED REGENERATION COUNCIL

Minutes of Meeting #9/11, held on October 13, 2011ETOBICOKE-MIMICO WATERSHEDS COALITION

Minutes of Meeting #3/11, held on Setpember 15, 2011.

_________________________________________

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RES.#A249/11 - GLEN ROUGE CAMPGROUNDReceipt of the Glen Rouge Campground 2011 operating season report.

Moved by: Glenn De BaeremaekerSeconded by: Maria Augimeri

THAT the report summarizing the Glen Rouge Campground 2011 operating season be received.

CARRIED _________________________________________

ONTARIO REGULATION 166/06

RES.#A250/11 - ONTARIO REGULATION 166/06

Moved by: Richard WhiteheadSeconded by: Glenn Mason

THAT Ontario Regulation 166/06 items EX10.1 - EX10.57, with the exception of EX10.12 - 220 Greyabbey Trail, contained in Executive Committee Minutes #10/11, held on November 4, 2011, be received.

CARRIED _________________________________________

RES.#A251/11 - ONTARIO REGULATION 166/06

Moved by: Glenn De BaeremaekerSeconded by: Jim Tovey

THAT Ontario Regulation 166/06 item EX10.12 - 220 Greyabbey Trail, contained in Executive Committee Minutes #10/11, held on November 4, 2011, be deferred to the Executive Committee.

CARRIED _________________________________________

TERMINATION

ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 12:01 p.m., on Friday, November 25, 2011.

Gerri Lynn O'ConnorChair

Brian DenneySecretary-Treasurer