mcphee meadows - a100.gov.bc.caa100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/acat/documents/r40046/11.w.pun... · 2013....

MCPHEE MEADOWS

MANAGEMENT PLAN

SUBMITTED ON: MARCH 25, 2012

PREPARED FOR: CITY OF COURTENAY

PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT

830 CLIFFE AVENUE, COURTENAY, BC

PREPARED BY: R. WONG R.P.BIO

McPhee Meadows Management Plan ................................………….………………………….page 2

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The McPhee Meadows Management Plan was prepared on behalf of City of Courtenay and The Nature Trust of BC to provide direction and focus for management activities aimed to maximize potential for increased ecological value. The management plan was completed by Current Environmental in association with Foster Surveying and is based on 2 person days of field verification work completed during July and August 2011 and review of existing information documented in this report. Specific objectives of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan are summarized below.

• Describe the existing and potential natural values as well as human activities consistent with maintaining and enhancing those values;

• Provide management strategies with specific targets and actions to address management issues and to meet conservation goals for the property;

• Provide implementation measures, including roles and responsibility; • Describe effectiveness evaluation procedures to ensure consistent routine monitoring.

The 4.78 ha property was recently donated to the City of Courtenay by the McPhee Family as a fee simple ecological gift with The Nature Trust of BC holding an interest on title. This donation helps secure more than 20% of the estimated 2.6 km Puntledge River Greenway proposed in the Official Community Plan. Management direction for the McPhee Meadows property is guided primarily by long-term environmental, heritage, and recreational initiatives of the Official Community Plan, including the Old Orchard and Area - Local Area Plan adopted in 2008 and the responsibilities of the recipients (City of Courtenay and The Nature Trust of BC) to the donated property under the federal Ecological Gifts Program. Management strategies described in this report will use key targets, summarized below, to help support the visions and goals of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan.

• Control invasive species; • Restore riparian and wildlife habitat; • Maintain heritage features; • Develop the Puntledge River Greenway.

The McPhee Meadows Management Plan will be implemented by the City of Courtenay. The potential ecological value of the McPhee Meadows property is expected to increase with restoration measures described in this report in place.


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The McPhee Meadows Management Plan was shaped by the advice and kind support of several individuals. Special thanks are extended to The Nature Trust of BC for assisting the City of Courtenay with technical input to the Plan, in particular Marian Adair. The Plan has benefited from advice provided by Lori McPhee (McPhee Family) and Nancy Hofer (City of Courtenay), and could not have been successfully prepared without the participation of adjacent landowners. Input from Kate Isenor and Thomas Krahn is appreciated. This Plan will be implemented by City of Courtenay with assistance provided by a forthcoming stewardship group partly comprised of local residents. Provincial and Federal government staff have made important contributions to the Plan. Thanks are extended to Margaret Henigman (MFLNRO) and Mel Sheng (DFO). This plan was prepared by Rupert Wong, RPBio of Current Environmental with technical mapping support from Bob Foster, BCLS of Foster Surveying and Mapping.


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary ................................................................................................................. 2 Acknowledgements ................................................................................................................. 3 Table of Contents .................................................................................................................... 4 List of Appendices .................................................................................................................... 4 List of Figures ........................................................................................................................... 5 List of Tables ............................................................................................................................ 5 List of Photographs .................................................................................................................. 5

1. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................... 6 2. BACKGROUND...................................................................................................... 6

History ..................................................................................................................................... 6 Planning Initiatives and Surrounding Land Use ....................................................................... 7 Natural Values ......................................................................................................................... 9 Heritage and Recreational Values ......................................................................................... 10

3. MANAGEMENT ISSUES ....................................................................................... 11 Public Safety Risks ................................................................................................................. 11

4. VISION STATEMENT ........................................................................................... 13 5. GOALS AND STRATEGIES .................................................................................... 13

Management Strategies ........................................................................................................ 14

6. IMPLEMENTATION ............................................................................................. 16 Governance ........................................................................................................................... 16 Priority Action ........................................................................................................................ 16 Effectiveness Evaluation ........................................................................................................ 17

7. DISCLAIMER ....................................................................................................... 17 8. PHOTOS ............................................................................................................. 18 9. REFERENCES ....................................................................................................... 22 10. APPENDICES ...................................................................................................... 23

LIST OF APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1. MCPHEE MEADOWS SITE PLANS SHOWING OVERVIEW MAP AND DETAILED VIEWS OF THE WESTERN PANHANDLE

AND EASTERN MEADOW. .......................................................................................................................... 23 APPENDIX 2. MCPHEE MEADOWS TOPOGRAPHIC SURVEY AND CROSS SECTION PROFILES ................................................. 23 APPENDIX 3. RIPARIAN RESTORATION PRESCRIPTIONS .............................................................................................. 23 APPENDIX 4. ANNUAL MANAGEMENT PLAN MONITORING FORM TEMPLATE. ............................................................... 23


LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 1. OVERVIEW MAP OF MCPHEE MEADOWS PROPERTY SHOWING FORESTED WESTERN PANHANDLE PARCEL AND

DOMINANT EASTERN MEADOW FEATURE OVER BALANCE OF PROPERTY. FOR A LARGER, MORE DETAILED VERSION OF THIS

MAP REFER TO APPENDIX 1. ......................................................................................................................... 8 FIGURE 2. PUNTLEDGE RIVER GREENWAY (GREEN DOTTED LINE) ALONG APPROXIMATELY 590 M OF NORTH BOUNDARY OF

MCPHEE MEADOWS AS PROPOSED IN OCP BYLAW #2387 (ADAPTED FROM MAP 2 OF OCP). ................................ 9

LIST OF TABLES TABLE 1. GENERALIZED PROCESS FOR THE MCPHEE MEADOWS MANAGEMENT PLAN ..................................................... 7 TABLE 2. SUMMARY OF HERITAGE VALUES LOCATED ON MCPHEE MEADOWS PROPERTY. ................................................ 10 TABLE 3. SUMMARY OF MANAGEMENT ISSUES ........................................................................................................ 11 TABLE 4. PUBLIC RISKS AND SAFETY ISSUES FOR CONSIDERATION PRIOR TO GRANTING PUBLIC ACCESS. ................................ 12 TABLE 5. GOALS AND STRATEGIES TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE NATURAL AND HERITAGE FEATURES. .................................... 13 TABLE 6. MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ASSOCIATED WITH INVASIVE SPECIES. ................................................................... 14 TABLE 7. MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ASSOCIATED WITH RIPARIAN HABITAT. ................................................................. 14 TABLE 8. MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ASSOCIATED WITH HERITAGE ORCHARD AND OTHER TREES. ...................................... 15 TABLE 9. MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ASSOCIATED WITH RECREATION AND PUBLIC ACCESS. .............................................. 15 TABLE 10. FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES TO ASSIST WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF RIPARIAN AND WILDLIFE HABITAT RESTORATION. . 16 TABLE 11. SUMMARY OF PRIORITY ACTIONS ........................................................................................................... 16

LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS PHOTO 1. TYPICALLY FRAGMENTED RIPARIAN HABITAT ALONG MOST OF THE NORTH BOUNDARY SHOWING PATCHES OF RIPARIAN

TREES AND A NARROW BUFFER OF NATIVE SHRUBS. ......................................................................................... 18 PHOTO 2. DOWNSTREAM END OF FORESTED WEST PARCEL SHOWING MATURE DECIDUOUS TREES DOMINATING THE RIPARIAN

CANOPY. ................................................................................................................................................ 18 PHOTO 3. EAST VIEW OF FAMILY ORCHARD SHOWING FENCED PERIMETER AND BLOOMING MEADOW FLOWERS IN JULY. ........ 19 PHOTO 4. GARRY OAK TREE LOCATED HALF WAY ALONG NORTH BOUNDARY OF THE EASTERN SECTION OF THE PROPERTY. ...... 19 PHOTO 5. KING APPLE TREE PLANTED BY MCPHEE FAMILY AT FOOT OF ACCESS ROAD. ..................................................... 19 PHOTO 6. POCKET BEACH LOCATED NEAR EAST END OF THE WESTERN PANHANDLE. ........................................................ 20 PHOTO 7. LARGE PATCH OF HIMALAYAN BLACKBERRY LOCATED ON SOUTH BOUNDARY AND SHOWN AS HB3

IN APPENDIX 1. .. 20 PHOTO 8. LARGE PATCH OF HIMALAYAN BLACKBERRY (SHOWN AS HB2

IN APPENDIX 1) CHOKING GARRY OAK TREE LOCATED ON

NORTH BOUNDARY. .................................................................................................................................. 20 PHOTO 9. TYPICAL SPREAD OF ENGLISH IVY ALONG SOUTH BOUNDARY SHOWN AS EI1 & 2

IN APPENDIX 1. ........................... 21 PHOTO 10. OCCURRENCE OF SCOTCH BROOM NEAR ENTRANCE OFF 3RD

ST. ................................................................. 21


1. INTRODUCTION

The McPhee Meadows property is located on the south bank of the Puntledge River an estimated 4.1 km upstream of the Courtenay River estuary (Figure 1). The Property is a 4.78 ha lot legally described as: PID 028-419-910 Lot 1 DL 118 Sec 61 Comox District Plan VIP88574. The Property was donated by the McPhee Family to the City of Courtenay in December 2011 as a fee simple ecological gift under the federal Ecological Gifts Program1. The Nature Trust of BC holds a 40% interest on the title. The purpose of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan is to:

• Describe the existing and potential natural values, as well as human activities, consistent with maintaining and enhancing those values;

• Provide management strategies with specific targets and actions to address management issues and to meet conservation goals for the property;

• Provide implementation measures, including roles and responsibilities; • Describe effectiveness evaluation procedures to ensure consistent routine monitoring.

The planning process used to develop and complete the McPhee Meadows Management Plan is generalized in Table 1. The independent process was led by City of Courtenay staff and took a consultative approach. The values of the McPhee Meadows property are described in Section 2, including natural and recreational resources. Key management issues are presented in Section 3 with goals and strategies of the management plan are discussed in Sections 4 & 5. In Section 6, plan implementation and monitoring are described, including action items, roles, and responsibilities. Mapping deliverables illustrating existing and potential features, including photopoints, are provided in Appendix 1.

2. BACKGROUND

HISTORY Development of The Orchard area (“Section 61” shown on Figure 1), including the McPhee Meadows property followed shortly after the formal Agreement of Sale in 1886 between Reginald Pidcock and Joseph McPhee (Kennedy 2010). Historic site alterations to the McPhee Meadows property have included clearing of native riparian trees, planting fruit trees, cultivating pasture, constructing outbuildings, access development, and bank armouring.

1 Under the program, recipients are responsible for the long-term management and conservation of the ecological gift and its ecologically sensitive features. <www.ec.gc.ca>

http://www.ec.gc.ca/


Table 1. Generalized Process for the McPhee Meadows Management Plan

June 2011 Confirm terms of reference Confirm process with City of Courtenay and Nature Trust of BC

August 2011 Develop and acquire resource data and appropriate map product August 2011 Consult with DFO staff from Restoration Unit

Consult with MFLNRO staff from Water Stewardship Division Consult with adjacent landowners and assess feasibility of integrated enhancement work

September 2011 Submit summary document of current management issues to City of Courtenay, Nature Trust of BC and McPhee Family

December 2011 Submit draft plan to City of Courtenay Review draft plan product with City of Courtenay, Nature Trust of BC and McPhee Family

March 2012 Refinement of draft plan Final review by City of Courtenay, Nature Trust of BC and McPhee Family

Fall 2012 Public announcement of plan

PLANNING INITIATIVES AND SURROUNDING LAND USE The north property boundary is defined by an estimated 590 m of the Puntledge River, which is characterized by a fragmented riparian corridor that is partially dominated by grass with patches of native riparian vegetation (Figure 1; Photo 1 & 2). Management direction for the McPhee Meadows property, from a planning perspective, is primarily guided by long-term environmental, heritage, and recreational initiatives of the Official Community Plan; including the Old Orchard and Area - Local Area Plan adopted in 2008. Land use immediately surrounding the property is characterized by single family homes, with many built between 1910 and 1960. Based on the consultative process of the Old Orchard and Area - Local Area Plan, the neighborhood identifies pedestrian orientation and heritage character as important features to the surrounding neighborhood. As shown in Figure 2, the recently donated McPhee Meadows property helps secure more than 20% of the estimated 2.6 km Puntledge River Greenway. While lateral riverfront access is presently limited by adjacent private properties, an existing gated service road off 3rd Street provides ready vehicle and pedestrian access and will likely continue to serve as the primary access point while continued long-term land acquisition goals are realized. The property is also accessible along the northern riverfront boundary to recreational waterway users of the Puntledge River.


Figure 1. Overview map of McPhee Meadows property showing forested Western Panhandle parcel and dominant Eastern Meadow feature over balance of property. For a larger, more detailed version of this map refer to Appendix 1.


Figure 2. Puntledge River Greenway (green dotted line) along approximately 590 m of north boundary of McPhee Meadows as proposed in OCP Bylaw #2387 (adapted from Map 2 of OCP).

NATURAL VALUES The entire McPhee Meadows property lies within the lowland bench of the Puntledge River floodplain where ground elevations are no greater than 1 m above high water mark (Appendix 2). One ecosystem type considered provincially rare is a mature riparian coniferous-deciduous forest represented by the smaller 1.3 ha “panhandle” western portion of the property, which lies within Environment Canada’s 2.4 ha SEI polygon S1179A, Mature Riparian Forest (Appendix 1). Field verification during this study confirms that numerous veteran trees in the panhandle parcel support avian production including raptors. Other provincially listed species that are potentially supported by the McPhee Meadows property area described in Moul (2010). The balance of the McPhee Meadows property (Figure 1; Appendix 1) has a history of disturbance (see History – Section 2) and is generally described as a grass dominated meadow, which is also occupied by an orchard. While this portion of the property can sometimes flood, the duration of seasonal flooding and associated wildlife utilization does not meet the Environment Canada’s ecosystem criteria for Seasonally Flooded Field. The northern boundary along the Puntledge River is a fragmented riparian corridor characterized by a narrow buffer and small patches of native riparian vegetation including black cottonwood veterans. High flow channels are evident with one located along the south boundary and is contiguous to the west over adjacent private property. Wildlife utilization of the meadow by mammals such as deer and bear was evident during the site survey.


HERITAGE AND RECREATIONAL VALUES Numerous heritage values exist on the McPhee Meadows property that are both important to the McPhee family, and are in keeping with the Old Orchard Area Local Area Plan. Heritage values are summarized in the table below and georeferenced in Appendix 1. Table 2. Summary of heritage values located on McPhee Meadows property. Heritage Feature Description Location Family Orchard Fenced 800 m2 orchard serviced by a well

and containing over 20 different types of apple and pear including heritage varieties

Northeast portion of meadow (Photo 3)

Protected Tree Garry Oak protected as per City of Courtenay Tree Bylaw #2461

North boundary approximately half way along river bank (Photo 4)

Heritage Tree Mature King apple tree Bottom of access road on north side (Photo 5)

Two small buildings occur on the McPhee Meadows property, which were built to store farm equipment and support the family orchard. These buildings will be deactivated and the site reclaimed as part of the management plan. While public recreational use of the property has been limited to date, a pocket beach located approximately halfway along the riverfront north boundary is used occasionally as an area of refuge during summer months by waterway users (Appendix 1; Photo 6).


3. MANAGEMENT ISSUES

Management issues and priorities summarized in Table 3 have been developed in consultation with the McPhee family (L. McPhee), Nature Trust of BC (M. Adair & I. Moul), City of Courtenay (N. Hofer), Provincial and DFO staff, as well as adjacent land owners. Table 3. Summary of management issues Management Issue Rationale Invasive species Without counter-measures in place invasive species are expected to continue

spreading and compete with native plants Heritage resources

Without proper maintenance and monitoring the family orchard is expected to deteriorate and valuable heritage varieties may be lost. Other trees beyond the orchard that have heritage value require similar care in order to survive.

Greenway & riparian corridor2

The recent donation of the McPhee Meadows property contributes significantly to the long-term recreational and environmental goals of the OCP, including greenway establishment.

Signage & other infrastructure

Until measures to mitigate management issues outlined above and in Table 4 are in place public access should be delayed.

Public Safety Risks

As per Table 4 issues to public safety need to be mitigated prior to granting public access to the site.

Offchannel habitat 3

Fall and winter mainstem flows are inhospitable to juvenile salmonids and offchannel areas offer refuge and increase survival. Wildlife utilization has been shown to increase 10 fold where offchannel habitat is created (Sheng, 2011)

PUBLIC SAFETY RISKS The following potential public safety risks were identified during the assessment process and should be considered prior to public access being granted to the site.

2 The McPhee Meadows property will be exempt from the Provincial Riparian Areas Regulation after re-zoning from R-2 to PA-2 (Henigman, 2011). 3 Opportunities and benefits of contiguous sidechannel improvements were discussed on-site with DFO and adjacent upstream land owners Kate Isenor and Thomas Krahn. The land owners are not interested at this time.


Table 4. Public risks and safety issues for consideration prior to granting public access. Farm Buildings

The existing farm outbuilding and electrical pole should be decommissioned and all debris removed from the site. The buildings have shown some signs of vandalism including broken glass. It is recommended that the buildings be removed as early as possible and the grounds revegetated with a suitable grass seed mix.

Private Foot Bridge

This structure is in disrepair and should be replaced by the property owner. It is recommended that the City post a “No Trespassing - Private Property” to deter public use and reduce liability risk. Because the surrounding ground is seasonally saturated and flood flows in the winter are not uncommon, any footings should be concrete and suitably built to span the ephemeral channel to allow for flood conveyance.

Orchard Existing fencing around the orchard appears to need minor maintenance. The orchard is

accessed from a swing gate that is lockable with a chain. An existing well was identified during survey work and appears to be constructed by concrete rings. Access to the well is provided by an opening at the top covered with a piece of plywood. Water surface will fluctuate seasonally but in the summer it appears to be about 0.5 m below existing ground. The well is elevated approx 1 m above ground and acts as a confined space. Egress from the well would be difficult if someone were to fall in. While the existing well may serve future purposes including irrigation of orchard trees, fire suppression, and monitoring groundwater elevations there is some risk to the public without safety measures in place. Securing brackets that can accommodate a locking slide bar and steel lid would be a fairly simple and effective way to secure access to the well.

Main Access Gate

This structure still functions though may need some adjustment for the locking mechanism on the post and gate to align better.

Toxic Plants

WorkSafe BC has identified several toxic plants that require special measures for handling and disposal. One plant called Spurge Laurel (Daphne laureola) occurs on the property. Anyone handling the plant should be made aware of the toxicity and how to protect themselves when it comes time to address invasive species4. The occurrence of Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) has been reported, which is more toxic than Spurge Laurel; however, the presence of this plant on the property has not been confirmed.

Hazard Trees

Wherever possible, hazard trees should be topped to retain a standing dead stem that will offer habitat and nutrients to avians. A tree abatement survey should be completed by a qualified arborist before the next winter storm season with a focus on the mature stands of coastal Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) on the southern boundary of the site near residential properties and the access road. The deciduous stand along the riparian zone should be considered low risk until such a time that a public access pathway is constructed in that area. An arborist’s survey should include the western panhandle to determine if there are any danger trees that may threaten nearby private property.

BC Hydro Flow Release

If water access by recreational users becomes unavoidable signs should be posted to warn about sudden increases in water levels resulting from the release of upstream flows. The small pocket beach located where the panhandle joins the main parcel (Appendix 1; Photo 6) is likely to be the most common recreational user access point. Identify where the nearest flooding risk siren is.

4 http://www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_and_safety/bulletins/toxic_plants/assets/pdf/tp0601.pdf


4. VISION STATEMENT

The vision for the McPhee Meadows property is for a public green space that is unique from other parks in the municipality with the following in mind.

• Integrate into the Puntledge River Greenway; • Maintain and enhance natural features that benefit both wildlife and recreational users; • Manage the McPhee Meadows property in a way that supports relevant goals of the Old

Orchard and Area Local Area Plan, including pedestrian orientation and heritage character including working landscapes.

5. GOALS AND STRATEGIES

While Section 61 (Eastern Meadow) has undergone significant development since Joseph McPhee laid out the town site in 1892, many of the heritage values important to the Old Orchard area exist today. The following goal statements and supporting strategies provide an overall direction for the McPhee Meadows Management Plan and aim to address environmental, heritage and recreational components of the OCP. They also support the City’s responsibility as recipient of the property of an ecological gift for the long-term management and conservation of the ecological gift and its ecologically sensitive features. Table 5. Goals and strategies to protect and enhance natural and heritage features. Goal Protect and enhance natural features

Strategies • Control invasive species by systematic removal

• Reinstate riparian habitat by planting a suitable native assemblage • Install surrogate features such as offchannel habitat and snags

Goal Protect heritage features

Strategies • Maintain and enhance the existing family orchard and trees outside the orchard

using suitable horticultural techniques • Protect rare heritage varieties using propogative techniques

Goal Develop Puntlege River Greenway

Strategies • Develop suitable nature trail that meanders along riparian corridor, recognizing the

potential for flooding • Identify opportunities to acquire other land adjacent to Puntedge River • Provide public access and limited infrastructure such as a dog station at the top of

the access easement and possible natural benches along the path • Decommission relic outbuildings and reclaim site to match surrounding vegetation


MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES The management strategies summarized in Tables 6-9 help identify key targets and actions intended to support the visions and goals of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan. Table 6. Management strategies associated with invasive species. Target Control invasive species

Action • Removal of invasive species over areas identified in Appendix 1, including Himalayan

Blackberry, Spurge Laurel5, English Ivy and Scotch Broom (Photos 7 – 10). • Seasonal ongoing effort using hand labour supplemented with small machinery as

needed to remove plants including soil contaminated with rhizomes and seed bank. • Coordinated with planting of native species, including riparian zone as per Table 7

Proponent City of Courtenay with assistance from stewardship group(s)

Timing Immediate with annual effort scheduled prior to seed production

Table 7. Management strategies associated with riparian habitat. Target Restore riparian and wildlife habitat

Action • Remove invasive species within riparian corridor as per Table 6.

• Reinstate native riparian species with an emphasis on shrubs and forbs along 15- 30 m wide strip of north boundary. Minimum spacing at 1.5 m centers.

• Plant trees in patches to maintain viewscape for residents along 3rd Street and avoid linear spacing. Minimum spacing of plant clusters at 6 m centers.

• For a detailed breakdown of riparian planting prescriptions see Appendix 3. • Install cavity nesting features at an estimated 2 – 5 features per ha to increase

production of cavity nesting avians and bats. This may include topping hazard trees rather than removal.

• Monitor the hydrology of the proposed backchannel for at least one year to determine the fluctuation in the water table and determine long term viability of the channel. The well may be used as a testing location. Other test wells may need to be dug.

• Install estimated 2,000 sq m backchannel wetland as per Appendix 1. • Identify opportunities to acquire upstream riverfront properties and explore potential

for sidechannel development.

Proponent City of Courtenay with assistance from DFO & stewardship group(s) and outside funding sources such as BC-FWCP Coastal (Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program), PSF and HCTF.

Timing Spring of 2012 or as funding allows.

5 Requires special measures as per Worksafe BC memo TP 06-01 (http://www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_and_safety/bulletins/toxic_plants/assets/pdf/tp0601.pdf)

http://www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_and_safety/bulletins/toxic_plants/assets/pdf/tp0601.pdf


Table 8. Management strategies associated with heritage orchard and other trees. Target Maintain heritage features

Action • Develop and implement maintenance program for heritage trees including orchard and

Garry Oak. Seek partners. • Improve survival and general health of heritage trees using suitable horticultural

methods, including pruning, irrigation and protection against other harm. • Develop and implement maintenance program for grass meadow to reduce risk of fire

hazard and provide for production of insects and avians.

Proponent City of Courtenay with assistance as needed from professionals.

Timing Immediate with annual pruning and treatment of heritage trees as per known horticultural practices. Schedule annual grass cutting during summer months and after production of flowering meadow species including buttercup and daisy. Likely two cuts will be required annually.

Table 9. Management strategies associated with recreation and public access. Target Establish Puntlege River Greenway

Action • Develop suitable nature trail that meanders along 590 m long riparian corridor. Due to

flooding, an informal trail with no additional surface materials should suffice. Annual brush clearing along the trail recommended.

• Install interpretive signage to educate public about site history and etiquette associated with site use. Seek partners.

• Maintain and improve gated entrance to restrict access during maintenance cycles and after hours.

• Limit infrastructure only – no playgrounds, portable bathrooms or impermeable surfaces - to maintain natural character of site.

• Identify opportunities to acquire other land adjacent to Puntedge River to establish contiguous greenway.

• Address public safety issues as per Table 4.

Proponent City of Courtenay with assistance as needed from professionals.

Timing As funding allows


6. IMPLEMENTATION

This section describes how the visions and goals of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan will be delivered.

GOVERNANCE The City of Courtenay will be responsible for implementation of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan with advice and guidance provided by The Nature Trust of BC and Lori McPhee (representative of the McPhee family). A special interest group such as the Old Orchard and Area - Local Area Plan Advisory Group may be formed to assist the City of Courtenay with implementation. Some funding opportunities that may assist with implementation are summarized below. Table 10. Funding opportunities to assist with implementation of riparian and wildlife habitat restoration. Funding Program Agency Deadlines Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program BC Hydro, MoE & DFO Oct 1st (letter of intent)

Nov 15th (application)

Community Salmon Program Pacific Salmon Foundation

Feb 15th & Oct 15th

HCTF Enhancement & Acquisition Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation

Nov 2nd (enhancement projects) Mar 31st (acquisition projects)

PRIORITY ACTION The following table summarizes action items based on priority, timing and identifies the responsible authority for implementation. Table 11. Summary of Priority Actions No Actions Priority Timing Proponent 1 Remove invasive

species as per Table 6 High Immediate and

repeated annually as needed

City of Courtenay with assistance from stewards

2 Restore riparian habitat as per Table 7

High Immediate City of Courtenay with assistance from stewards and professionals

3 Maintain heritage features as per Table 8

High Immediate with seasonal continuation

City of Courtenay with assistance from stewards and professionals

4 Establish public access

as per Table 9 Low Coordinated with

or after actions above

City of Courtenay with assistance from stewards


EFFECTIVENESS EVALUATION To determine if the intended objectives of McPhee Meadows Management Plan are being met, an Effectiveness Evaluation (EE) will be completed year end, on an annual basis for a minimum of 3 years. If management decisions and actions are not producing intended results, the City of Courtenay shall complete remedial action as needed and adjust the minimum 3 year EE accordingly. Compliance of target measures and actions will be summarized in an EE adapted from a template in Appendix 4.

7. DISCLAIMER

This report was prepared exclusively for City of Courtenay by Current Environmental. The quality of information, conclusions and estimates contained herein is consistent with the level of effort expended and is based on: i) information available at the time of preparation; ii) data collected by the author, technical personnel and/or supplied by outside sources; and iii) the assumptions, conditions and qualifications set forth in this report. This report is intended to be used by City of Courtenay only, subject to the terms and conditions of its contract or understanding with Current Environmental. Other use or reliance on this report by any third party is at that party’s sole risk.

Signed by Rupert Wong, R.P.Bio. on March 25, 2012.


8. PHOTOS

Photo 1. Typically fragmented riparian habitat along most of the north boundary showing patches of riparian trees and a narrow buffer of native shrubs.

Photo 2. Downstream end of forested west parcel showing mature deciduous trees dominating the riparian canopy.


Photo 3. East view of family orchard showing fenced perimeter and blooming meadow flowers in July.

Photo 4. Garry Oak tree located half way along north boundary of the eastern section of the property.

Photo 5. King apple tree planted by McPhee family at foot of access road.


Photo 6. Pocket beach located near east end of the western panhandle.

Photo 7. Large patch of Himalayan blackberry located on south boundary and shown as HB3 in Appendix 1.

Photo 8. Large patch of Himalayan blackberry (shown as HB2 in Appendix 1) choking Garry Oak tree located on north boundary.


Photo 9. Typical spread of English Ivy along south boundary shown as EI1 & 2 in Appendix 1.

Photo 10. Occurrence of Scotch Broom near entrance off 3rd St.


9. REFERENCES

A Blue Print for Courtenay. Official Community Plan Bylaw 2387. Revised on November 21, 2011

by City of Courtenay Planning Services Department. 154 pp. BC Conservation Data Centre. 2008. Ecological Community Red and Blue Lists. Web site:

http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eswp/search.do [accessed December 2011]. BC Ministry of Environment, Lands, and Parks and BC Ministry of Forests (MELP/MOF). 1998.

Field Manual for Describing Terrestrial Ecosystems. Land Management Handbook 25. Province of British Columbia.

Henigman, M. Ecosystem Biologist, MFLNRO. 2011. Personal Communication. Kennedy, I. 2010. The Life and Times of Joseph McPhee. Published by Kennell Publishing,

Comox, BC. 322 pp. Moul, I. 2010. McPhee Meadows Property –Ecosensitivity Assessment. Prepared by The Nature

Trust of BC. 17 pp McPhee, M, P. Ward, J. Kirkby, L, Wolfe, N. Page, K, Dunster, N.K. Dawe, I, Nykwist. 1998.

Sensitive Ecosystems Inventory: East Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands 1993-1997, Volume 2: Conservation Manual. Tech. Rep. Ser. No 345, Can. Wildl. Serv., Pac. and Yukon Reg., BC. 264 pp.

Old Orchard and Area Local Area Plan. Prepared by City of Courtenay Planning Services

Department. Adopted on September 15, 2008. 37 pp. Sheng, R. Habitat Restoration Lead, South Coast DFO. 2011. Personal Communication. Ward, P., G. Radcliffe, J. Kirkby, J. Illingworth, and C. Cadrin. 1998. Sensitive Ecosystems

Inventory: East Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands 1993-1997. Volume 1: Methodology, Ecological Descriptions and Results. Tech. Rep. Ser. No. 320, Can. Wildl. Serv., Pac. and Yukon Reg., BC.

http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eswp/search.do


10. APPENDICES

Appendix 1. McPhee Meadows site plans showing Overview Map and detailed views of the Western Panhandle and Eastern Meadow. Appendix 2. McPhee Meadows topographic survey and cross section profiles Appendix 3. Riparian Restoration Prescriptions Appendix 4. Annual Management Plan Monitoring Form Template.

APPENDIX 1

Insert McPhee Meadows orthophoto site plan

FIR TREE

FIR TREE

OAK TREE

KING APPLETREE

WELL

ORCHARD

POCKET BEACH

UP

WATER SURFACEIN WELL = 4.503AUG.7, 2011

OUT BUILDINGS

3RD S

TREET

HB1

HB2

HB3

EI1

RP

RP

BWC

SB

EI

SL

2

HERITAGE

HERITAGE

P6

P2

P1

P8P4

P3

P7

P10

P5

P9

[email protected],B.C. V9N 5S71087 19th St.

FOSTER SURVEYING & MAPPING

DRAWN BY: R.F. DATE: MARCH 4, 2012 APPROVED BY: R.W.

OVERVIEW KEY MAP OF McPHEE MEADOWS

FOR CURRENT ENVIRONMENT REVISION NO. 1

PAGE 1 OF 4DWG. No: 2011-07-5

FILE NAME: McPHEE MEADOWS PLAN_PROFILE_ORTHO 2011 MARCH 4_2012.DWG

0 12.5 25SCALE 1:1250

50

HB = Himalayan Blackberry

EI = English Ivy

SL = Spurge Laurel

SB = Scotch Broom

Proposed Backwater Channel

Proposed Riparian Planting

Property line

Present Natural Boundary

LEGEND

Flow Direction

Utility PoleUPMature Mixed Riparian ForestDitch

Shrub

BWC

RP

P5Photopoints

POCKET BEACH

HB1

P6

P2

P1




WESTERN PANHANDLE


PAGE 2 OF 4DWG. No: 2011-07-5


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EI = English Ivy

SL = Spurge Laurel

SB = Scotch Broom



Property line


LEGEND

Flow Direction


Shrub

BWC

RP

P5 Photopoints

FIR TREE

FIR TREE

OAK TREE

KING APPLETREE

WELL

ORCHARD

POCKET BEACH

UP


OUT BUILDINGS

2ND STREET

3RD S

TREET

FIT

ZG

ER

AL

D A

VE

NU

E

HB1

HB2

HB3

EI1

RP

RP

BWC

SB

EI

SL

2

HERITAGE

HERITAGE

P6

P2

P1

P8P4

P3

P7

P10

P5

P9




EAST MEADOW


PAGE 3 OF 4DWG. No: 2011-07-5


0 10 20SCALE 1:1000

40


EI = English Ivy

SL = Spurge Laurel

SB = Scotch Broom



Property line


LEGEND

Flow Direction


Shrub

BWC

RP

P5Photopoints

FIR TREE

FIR TREE

OAK TREE

KING APPLETREE

WELL

ORCHARD

POCKET BEACH

UP


OUT BUILDINGS

3RD S

TREET

HB1

HB2

HB3

EI1

RP

RP

BWC

SB

EI

SL

2

HERITAGE

HERITAGE

P6

P2

P1

P8P4

P3

P7

P10

P5

P9




TOPOGRAPHIC AND CROSS SECTION SURVEY


PAGE 4 OF 4DWG. No: 2011-07-5


0 12.5 25SCALE 1:1250

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Property line



EI = English Ivy

SL = Spurge Laurel

SB = Scotch Broom

BWC = Proposed Backwater Channel

RP = Proposed Riparian Planting

LEGEND

Flow DirectionUtility PoleUP

APPENDIX 2

Insert McPhee Meadows topographic survey and cross section profiles

APPENDIX 3

Insert riparian restoration prescriptions

RIPARIAN RESTORATION PRESCRIPTION McPhee Meadows Date: March 5, 2012

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WATERSHED Code: 920-553200-94200 WATERSHED: Puntledge River REGION: East Coast Vancouver Island LOCATION: Courtenay

INVASIVE SPECIES CONTROL MEASURES LAND TENURE: Owner – City of Courtenay PID: 028-419-910 Lot 1 DL 118 Sec 61 Comox District PlanVIP88574

Local Government City of Courtenay Lot Size: 4.6 ha WATERCOURSE: Puntledge River mainstem south bank

Polygon Description Access Polygon width:

Elevation: Polygon Length:

Treatment Area

HB1

Himalayan Blackberry

200 m long panhandle parallel to river. HB stand concentrated to east end of panhandle but distributed in small patches throughout.

Go NW about 185 m from the bottom of access road across meadow to NE end of panhandle.

25 m 10 - 15 m 35 m ~ 875 sq m

HB2


North boundary of meadow approximately centered at top of river bank. Patch of HB is growing around 20’ tall Garry Oak tree, which cannot be harmed.

Due north across meadow about 145 m from bottom of access road.

9 m 10 - 15 m 20 m ~ 180 sq m

HB3


Southeast boundary of meadow along an ephemeral drainage located at the toe of slope immediately northeast of footbridge near tractor shed.

Go NE about 130 m from the bottom of access road along SE edge of meadow.

14 m 10 - 15 m 40 m ~ 560 sq m

EI1

English Ivy

Southeast boundary of property growing over slope near HB3 polygon and climbing small stand of CDF trees. Must remove from trees that are on City property and get permission from adjacent landowners to also remove from their trees.

As above 16 m 10 - 15 m 40 m ~ 640 sq m

EI2

English Ivy

Southeast boundary of property growing over slope and dominating understory within narrow stand of CDF trees. Must remove from trees.

Approximately 25 m below access road entrance.

12 m 10 - 15 m 40 m ~ 480 sq m

SB Scotch Broom

Small patch located at entrance of access road. Reasonable effort to find and remove other solitary plants distributed over meadow should be made.

At access road entrance. 5 m 10 - 15 m 10 m ~ 50 sq m

SL Spurge Laurel

Occurs in understory over slope on south boundary along both sides of access road. Service road 15 m 10 - 15 m 50 m ~ 750 sq m

Notes: Handling of Spurge Laurel requires special measures as per Worksafe BC memo TP 06-01 (http://www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_and_safety/bulletins/toxic_plants/assets/pdf/tp0601.pdf)

Total Length and Area of invasive species removal under this prescription ~235 m ~3535 sq m ECOLOGY BioGeoClimatic Classification ZONE: SUBZONE & VARIANT: SITE SERIES: EDAPHIC REGIME:

CWH xm1 09 4-5 / C-D – fresh to moist / rich Coastal Western Hemlock Very dry maritime -eastern Black cottonwood-Red-osier dogwood

SOIL TEXTURE: LFH LAYER(S): SOIL DEPTH: Coarse Fragments: ASPECT: SLOPE: ELEVATION: Stream Class:SL – Sandy Loam 0 - 5 cm 40 - 60 cm 15 - 35 % SE 0-10% 10 - 15 m S2 Comments: All invasive plant material to be removed and disposed off site at an appropriate facility. No mulching or

disposal on site or in the river. RATIONALE: Riparian restoration to begin with reasonable effort to remove and initiate control measures against target invasive species

summarized above. Riparian restoration to include planting of suitable native assemblage in a separate prescription. Restore features, functions and conditions that are vital to the natural maintenance of stream health and productivity.

PLANTING PRESCRIPTION: OBJECTIVES: Enhance fish habitat and biodiversity of the riparian zone by planting a selection of native plant species

suited to the site’s ecology. PLANTING DIFFICULTY RATING: Easy No obstacles to planting are anticipated. SITE PREPARATION METHOD: Excavator with manual

finishing Small machine suggested to prepare planting areas dominated by gramminoids. Where required, provide minimum of 30 cm of topsoil for planting areas.

NET AREA TO BE PLANTED: ~ 2,838 m2 Planting area includes two 15 m wide riparian polygons along south bank of river as shown and identified as RP in the attached site plan.

PLANT SPECIES & QUANTITY: Refer to attached list (page 2)

PLANT SOURCES: Local nurseries specializing in native plant species. Wildlings may be used if dormancy has been achieved for deciduous species. Transplanting should be done carefully to ensure minimum disturbance to the plant’s root system.

TYPE OF STOCK Container or bareroot as available. Largest stock available is recommended to minimize browse by ungulates.


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AGE CLASS two year old stock as availability dictates. SPACING: variable - see plant list and comments PLANTING HOLE SIZE: 1.5 times the diameter of the root ball Remove existing grass and weed cover if present. DEPTH: 1.5 times the depth of the root ball

PLANTING MEDIUM: Ensure stock is planted in an adequate depth (45-60cm) of suitable substrate free of weed species. PLANTING SOIL: No fertilizer required at time of planting (see special clauses).

SHADING: n/a No supplemental shading required.

EXPECTED SURVIVAL: 85% Biggest threats to survival will be desiccation during summer months, exposure to severe winds and flooding as well as deer browse

RECOMMENDED MATERIAL LIST: COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME Minimum

Quantity Minimum Spacing

Comments

RIPARIAN TREES & SHRUBS Bigleaf maple Acer macrophyllum 12

6.0 m Clustering groups of > 3 specimens is

acceptable for all tree species with minimum spacing of 6 m to be respected.

Western red cedar Thuja plicata 12 6.0 m As above Douglas-fir Pseudotsuga menziesii 12 6.0 m As above Black Hawthorn Crataegus douglasii 12 3.0 m As above Red Osier Dogwood Cornus stolonifera 40 1.5 m Suitable for water edge planting using

rooted stock or live stake methods described in attachment

Pacific Willow Salix lucida ssp lasiandra 40 1.5 m as above Hooker’s Willow Salix hookeriana 40 1.5 m as above Pacific crab apple Malus fusca 40 1.5 m Excavate planting hole 1.5 times the dia

and depth of root ball. Bonemeal and peat moss may be added to backfill native soil in each planting hole to increase organic matter content and enhance retention of water and nutrients.

Black twinberry Lonicera involucrata 40 1.5 m As above Snowberry Symphoricarpus albus 40 1.5 m As above Salmonberry Rubus spectabilis 40 1.5 m As above Saskatoon Amelanchier alnifolia 40 1.5 m As above Thimbleberry Rubus parviflorus 40 1.5 m As above Pacific Ninebark Physocarpus capitatus 40 1.5 m As above Oceanspray Holodiscus discolor 40 1.5 m As above Nootka Rose Rosa nutkana 40 1.5 m As above Red Flowering Currant Ribes sanguineum 40 1.5 m As above TOTAL PLANTS 568

Notes: 1. A duff layer will likely be non-existent across the planting site so plant with the root collar slightly below the mineral soil surface to prevent wicking of

moisture from the root system. The top of the plug or root mass of container stock or the topsoil covering the roots of bare-root stock should be covered by a 1 - 2” layer of duff/organic mulch – see mulching clause below.

2. Mulching: Mulching of the planting site is recommended to reduce competition from non-native species and water loss. Mulching lower planting sites in the channelized watercourse is not required as intermittent flow is expected to maintain soil moisture.

3. Channel edge: Selected plants include hydrophytes adapted to irregular intervals of inundation. Close attention should be given to placement of plants in appropriate area subject to irregular inundation.

4. Fertilization: No concentrated chemical fertilizer should be applied at the time of planting. 5. Standard horticultural/landscape best practices are to be followed with regard to pre-plant stock care, storage & handling as well as planting quality,

etc. A pre-work instructional meeting with the planting supervisor(s) and crew as well as ongoing onsite supervision and inspection of planting procedure and plant placement should be conducted by a qualified professional. Substitutions, additions or deletions to the plant list require approval from the prescribing biologist.

6. Irrigation: Irrigation treatment is recommended for at least 2-years (or until plant roots establish sufficiently) during dryer summer months 7. Weeding: Removal of invasive species is recommended for at least 2-years (or until native plants establish sufficiently) with an aggressive effort

during late spring and during summer months as required.

PROJECT PLANNING DETAILS SEASON AND YEAR: EARLY SPRING 2012 (prior to emergence of streamside wildflowers) PRIORITY AND REASON: HIGH - Site Restoration ACCESS: DISTANCE AND DIRECTION

Invasive species removal and native planting sites are accessible by existing service road.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS If weather and soil conditions are dry at the time of planting, an initial watering of the planting stock is required. As long as dry conditions continue after planting, additional irrigation may be required until the end of dry soil conditions.

APPROXIMATE START-UP: [ ] EARLY [ ] MID [X] LATE Month: March 2012 QUESTIONS: Contact Person: Rupert Wong, R.P.Bio. (250) 871-1944


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PHOTOS

Photo 1. Northwest corner of property at entrance to panhandle where control of Himalayan blackberry is required and shown on site plan as HB1.

Photo 2. Large patch of Himalayan blackberry (shown as HB2 in site plan) choking Garry Oak tree located on north boundary (left).

Photo 3. Large patch of Himalayan blackberry located on south boundary and shown on site plan as HB3

(below).


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Photo 4. Typical spread of English Ivy along south boundary shown as EI1 & 2 in site plan.

Photo 5. Occurrence of Scotch Broom near entrance off 3rd Street shown as SB in site plan.


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ATTACHMENTS: SPECIFICATIONS FOR LIVE STAKE INSTALLATION – 2 PAGES

Live Stake Live stakes create a living root mat that stabilizes the soil by

reinforcing and binding soil particles together and by extracting

excess soil moisture. Most willow species root rapidly and

begin to dry out an excessively wet bank once root systems

have established. Live rootable vegetative cuttings are inserted

or tamped into the ground. If correctly prepared, handled and

placed the live stake will root and grow.

Applications and Effectiveness Applications

o Use stakes in the wetted zone of banks where soil is

prone to saturation (Figure 1).

Effectiveness o Provides a technique where site conditions a re

uncomplicated, construction time is limited, and a cost

effective method is required.

o Protects slopes from shallow slides (30 -60 cm/1- to 2-

ft. depth).

o Requires soil moisture or regular precipitation during

the growing season to grow.

o Enhances conditions for natural colonization of

vegetation from the surrounding plant community. Construction Guidelines Live materials

o Stakes are generally 1” – 2” in diameter and 2’ – 3’

long. Specific site requirements and available cutting

source will determine size.

Live material sizes and preparation

o Harvest during typical dormant season

o Remove side branches leaving bark intact.

o Cut the basal end at an angle for easy insertion into the

substrate. Cut tops square.

o Install material the same day they are prepared or

temporarily store submerged in cool fresh water.

Installation o Orient buds up

o Install live stakes 2’ – 3’ apart using triangular spacing.

Density of spacing will vary from 2 – 4 stakes per

square yard. Site variations may require different

spacing (i.e. allowing for water level variations). Start

installation at any point on the slope face.

o Install 4/5 of the stake length into the ground and

firmly pack soil around the stake after installation.

o Remove and replace any stakes that split during

installation

o Use an iron bar to make a pilot hole in firm soil.

o Wherever possible dig in live stakes unless the soil is

fine and loose. Tamped in stakes may become

compromised due to splitting or bark damage.

o Plant on banks that will be moist during growing

season or install longer stakes that will reach the dry

season water level.


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Figure 1. Typical live stake installation at water edge and toe of slope showing penetration to anticipated dry season water level (adapted from http://www.fs.fed.us/publications/soil-bio-guide/guide/chapter5.pdf)

User

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HB1

User

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HB2

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HB3

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EI1

User

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SB

User

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EI2

User

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SL

User

Polygon

User

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BWC

User

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User

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RP

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RP

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LEGEND HB = Himilayan Blackberry EI = English Ivy SL = Spurge Laurel SB = Scotch Broom BWC = Proposed Backwater Channel RP = Proposed Riparian Planting

APPENDIX 4

Insert Management Plan Monitoring Form Template

MANAGEMENT PLAN MONITORING – SIGNIFICANT ASPECTS FORM

Distribution: Proponent, TNTBC, Regulatory Agencies, person responsible to ensure actions are carried out

Period or dates of Inspection Date: ________________ Inspection Phase (circle one): Interim Final Proponent Information

First Name Middle Name

Last Name Affiliation

Phone # Email

Address City PC

Primary QEP Information First Name Last Name

Designation Company

Registration # Email

Address City PC

NO TARGETS COMPLIANCE REQUIRED ACTIONS OR COMMENTS

1 CONTROL INVASIVE SPECIES Yes In progress No

Removal of invasive species coordinated in riparian areas with planting efforts

2 RESTORE RIPARIAN AND WILDLIFE HABITAT Yes In progress No

- Reinstate riparian suitable assemblage of riparian natives including canopy and understory species

- Install features to increase wildlife production

3 MAINTAIN HERITAGE FEATURES Yes In progress No

Implement maintenance program

4 ESTABLISH GREENWAY Yes In progress No

- Install or improve features such as trail, access, signage

- Maintain natural character - Address safety concerns

5 PROTECTION OF TREES Yes In progress No

Family orchard and other trees beyond are suitably protected

6 HAZARD TREES & WINDTHROW ABATEMENT Yes In progress No

Monitor trees of concern and abate as needed

7 SITE RECLAMATION Yes In progress No

- Revegetate site where outbuildings are decommissioned

- Replant suitable native plants where patches of invasive species are removed

SPECIAL MEASURES circle one Comments

HAVE THE GOALS AND ACTIONS OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN BEEN SUBSTANTIALLY MET?

Y N

Compliance monitoring establishes the degree to which the management plan is consistent with the intended goals and actions. The focus of management plan monitoring is to aid the City of Courtenay in meeting objectives detailed in Section 5 of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan by delineating required remedial action. Compliance monitoring will be carried out under the direction of a qualified professional and will be required for a minimum of 3 years to allow for a sufficient monitoring period. The implementation of the McPhee Meadows Management Plan will be deemed to be complete if, in the opinion of The Nature Trust of BC target objectives outlined below have been met.

MANAGEMENT PLAN MONITORING – SIGNIFICANT ASPECTS FORM

Distribution: Proponent, TNTBC, Regulatory Agencies, person responsible to ensure actions are carried out

OTHER COMMENTS

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