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Capability
Appendix G
Natural Science Report
Natural Resource Inventory and Assessment Report
Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 16) Environmental Assessment Study
Prepared by EcoTec Environmental Consultants Inc. for AECOM on behalf of the City of Ottawa January 2014
NATURAL RESOURCE INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT REPORT
for the
Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor
(Terry Fox to Hwy 416) Environmental Assessment Study
Prepared by EcoTec Environmental Consultants Inc. on behalf of AECOM Canada Ltd.
for the City of Ottawa
January 2014
Prepared By:
Heather Kime, B. Sc. Ecologist EcoTec Environmental Consultants Inc.
Reviewed By:
Megan Lay, B. Sc. Ecologist EcoTec Environmental Consultants Inc.
Natural Resource Inventory and Assessment Report Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) Environmental Assessment Study City of Ottawa i
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 1 2.0 STUDY AREA ................................................................................................................. 2 3.0 METHODOLOGY………………….. ................................................................................. 4 4.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS................................................................................................. 9 4.1 Soils and Physiography ........................................................................................ 9 4.2 Surface Water ...................................................................................................... 9 4.3 Ground Water ..................................................................................................... 10 4.4 Fish and Fish Habitat ......................................................................................... 10 4.4.1 Monahan Drain ....................................................................................... 10 4.4.2 Stillwater Creek ....................................................................................... 12 4.5 Environmentally Significant Areas ...................................................................... 14 4.6 Terrestrial Communities ..................................................................................... 14 4.6.1 Plantation ................................................................................................ 15 4.6.2 Deciduous Forest .................................................................................... 17 4.6.3 Mixed Forest ........................................................................................... 17 4.6.4 Other ....................................................................................................... 17 47 Wetland Communities ........................................................................................ 18 4.7.1 Shallow Marsh ........................................................................................ 20 4.7.2 Thicket Swamp ....................................................................................... 21 4.7.3 Swamp .................................................................................................... 21 4.8 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat ................................................................................ 22 4.9 Species at Risk .................................................................................................. 24
5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION ................................. 31 5.1 Sediment and Erosion Control ............................................................................ 31 5.2 Surface Water Contamination and Debris Accumulation .................................... 32 5.3 Groundwater ...................................................................................................... 33 5.4 Fish and Fish Habitat ......................................................................................... 33 5.5 Environmentally Significant Areas ...................................................................... 34 5.6 Wetlands ............................................................................................................ 35 5.7 Vegetation .......................................................................................................... 36 5.8 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat ................................................................................ 37 5.9 Species at Risk .................................................................................................. 38 6.0 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................. 42
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Key map of the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to
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Hwy 416) study limits ........................................................................................... 3 Figure 2: Terrestrial Communities within the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor
(Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study limits .................................................................... 16 Figure 3: Wetland Communities within the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study limits .................................................................... 19
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Summary of 2012 and 2013 field survey dates for the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study area ............................... 5 Table 2: Documented fish species within Monahan Drain ................................................ 11 Table 3: Documented fish species within Stillwater Creek ................................................ 13 Table 4: Bird species identified within the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study area ..................................................................... 23 Table 5: Summary of results for turtle surveys conducted in the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study area during 2013 .......... 28
APPENDICES Appendix A: Study Area Photographs Appendix B: Agency Communication Appendix C: Mapping of Environmental Features Appendix D: Plant Species List
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The City of Ottawa initiated a Class Environmental Assessment Study (Class EA) for the
proposed extension of Hope Side Road and awarded this EA study to AECOM in September
2008. A large part of the study area for the Hope Side Road Class EA was located within lands
owned by the National Capital Commission (NCC). As such, the participation of NCC in the
study process was required. The NCC, however, was unable to participate until the results of
the NCC’s Greenbelt Master Plan (GMP) were known. As a result, the project was put on hold
until January 2013, when the GMP Review was nearing completion.
As growth and development continue in Kanata’s Monahan Landing community, there is a need
to resume the EA study. As a condition of proceeding, the NCC noted that the extension of
Hope Side Road must be removed from consideration. The main focus of the study now is the
potential widening and realignment of the existing roadway. As such, this EA study is now
referred to as the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) EA Study.
AECOM retained the services of EcoTec Environmental Consultants Inc. (EcoTec) for the
purpose of preparing a Natural Environmental Inventory and Assessment Report for the project
study area. An early winter field survey was carried out in late November 2012 in order to
assess and document the existing environmental conditions within and adjacent to the study
area. Following the production of an Existing Conditions Report, EcoTec carried out additional
field surveys and background research in order to complete this Natural Inventory and
Assessment Report. The following report includes an overview of existing vegetation and wildlife
communities, fisheries populations and aquatic habitat, environmentally significant areas, and
species at risk found within the project limits, as well as an assessment of potential impacts of
the proposed project.
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2.0 STUDY AREA
Due to the focus of the alternatives on the existing road corridors, the primary study area for the
assessment of alternatives extends along Hope Side Road from Terry Fox Drive/Eagleson Road
to Old Richmond Road, along Old Richmond Road from Hope Side Road to West Hunt Club
Road, and along West Hunt Club Road from Old Richmond Road to Highway 416. This primary
study area generally includes lands within 120 m of the existing road right-of-way (ROW)
(Figure 1). A large portion of the study area is located within NCC’s Stony Swamp Conservation
Area, a core natural area within the Greenbelt. The project limits are located in the jurisdiction of
the Ministry of Natural Resources Kemptville Area Office and Rideau Valley Conservation
Authority.
Figure 1:Key map of the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study limits.
N
mk 10
Primary study area416
416
Moodie Drive
Cedarview
Moodie Drive
West Hunt Club Road
Stonehaven Drive
Old
Ric
hmon
d R
oad
Hope Side Road
Terry Fox Drive
Eagleson Road
Monahan Drain
Tributary to Stillwater Creek
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3.0 METHODOLOGY
In order to acquire up-to-date information and a photographic record of the study area, H. Kime
M. Lay, P. Munz, C. Marcoux and D. Clark of EcoTec undertook a field inventory and
assessment of the existing environmental features found within the primary study limits. This
inventory was conducted over three seasons, including fall, spring, and summer and included
the identification and mapping of existing vegetation, wetland areas, fisheries populations and
aquatic habitat, resident or migrant bird and wildlife species, as well as species at risk and
critical habitat areas. Table 1 provides a summary of field survey dates, the type of survey or
target species, and weather conditions. Refer to Appendix A for a photographic record of the
study area.
Background information was acquired from the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), the
Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC), the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA),
the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), and the Ottawa Reinforcement Project Environmental and
Cumulative Effects Assessment (Enbridge 2012). A copy of specific agency response
information can be found in Appendix B.
Following communication with the MNR, it was recommended that habitat surveys and species-
specific surveys for a number of species at risk be completed within the study area. These
species-specific surveys were conducted during May, June, and July 2013 by M. Lay and P.
Munz of EcoTec.
In order to address the NCC`s requirement to demonstrate no net loss of ecological function of
wetlands, as well as no net loss of wetland area, a field inventory and assessment of existing
wetlands within the study area was conducted on July 30 and 31 by H. Kime and M. Lay of
EcoTec.
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Table 1: Summary of 2012 and 2013 field survey dates for the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study area.
Season Date of Field Survey
Type of Survey / Target Species
Air Temperature Personnel
Fall 2012 November 27 Fisheries -6 oC H. Kime, D. Clark, M.
Lay
November 28 Vegetation Communities -4 oC H. Kime
Spring/Summer
2013
April 18 Fisheries 7 oC M. Lay, C. Marcoux
May 16 Blanding`s Turtle 14 oC M. Lay, P. Munz
May 27 Blanding`s Turtle 12oC M. Lay, P. Munz
May 28 Blanding`s Turtle 15 oC M. Lay, P. Munz
May 31 Blanding`s Turtle 22 oC M. Lay, P. Munz
June 4 Blanding`s Turtle 18 oC M. Lay, P. Munz
June 12 Breeding Bird Bobolink Eastern Meadowlark
20 oC M. Lay
June 13 Least Bittern 14 oC M. Lay, P. Munz
June 21 Breeding Bird Bobolink Eastern Meadowlark
19 oC M. Lay
June 24 Least Bittern 22 oC M. Lay, P. Munz
June 27 Breeding Bird Bobolink Eastern Meadowlark
20 oC M. Lay
July 10 Least Bittern 23 oC M. Lay, P. Munz
July 30 Wetland Communities 20 oC H. Kime, M. Lay
July 31 Wetlands Communities 25 oC H. Kime, M. Lay
Terrestrial and Wetland Communities
In order to document the existing terrestrial and wetland communities within the study area,
EcoTec undertook field investigations on November 27 and 28, 2012 as well as July 30 and 31,
2013. The purpose of the wetland surveys was to allow EcoTec to assess the ecological
function of study area wetlands and the potential impacts as a result of the proposed project.
The evaluation of wetland communities involved the review of reference material provided by
the NCC and the City of Ottawa, including a Technical Memo entitled “Assessment of the
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Potential Impacts of Installing Culverts in Stony Swamp During the Richmond Road Widening”
(City of Ottawa 2009). Background data provided by the NCC included mapping of vegetation
units within NCC lands which was ground truthed during field investigations. A review of aerial
photographs was also undertaken as part of the surveys. Wetland boundaries were delineated
as per the Ontario Wetland Evaluation System (OMNR 2013). Communities were classified
according to the Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario (Lee et al. 1998).
Fish and Fish Habitat
Aquatic field investigations included the identification of the following:
� existing fish communities with the use of a Smith-Root LR-20B backpack electrofisher; � watercourse morphology and flow characteristics; � water temperature and general chemical properties; � key habitat features (e.g. riffles, pools, woody debris, undercut banks, boulder clusters),
potential groundwater seepage areas, watercourse substrate types, bank stability, and riparian and aquatic vegetation;
� critical habitat areas (e.g. potential spawning, nursery, rearing, migratory and feeding areas);
� riparian vegetation communities, significant specimens, and wildlife usage; � species at risk; and � physical barriers to fish passage.
Wildlife
Wildlife species noted during the field investigations were identified by signs, visual
observations, and vocalizations. As animal migration and movement patterns may utilize areas
both within and outside of the study areas, birds and animals observed within and adjacent to
the study limits were recorded and considered to be the residents or visitors of the area for the
purpose of this study.
Species at Risk
The MNR recommended that breeding bird surveys be conducted to assess the presence of
bird species at risk within the study limits, including whip-poor-will, black tern, Henslow’s
sparrow, chimney swift, and short-eared owl. Breeding bird surveys were conducted as per
point count methodology described in the OBBA Guide for Participants (March 2001), with
particular emphasis on targeting appropriate/suitable habitat for each species. Point count
methodology consists of standing at a station and counting all birds seen and heard during a
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five minute period. Surveys were done between dawn and 5 hours after dawn between May 24
and July 10 in good weather.
The MNR has also recommended that potential habitat within and in proximity to the study area
be assessed to determine suitability for flooded jellyskin, milksnake, eastern ribbonsnake, and
snapping turtle. Habitat assessments for these species were conducted by examining the study
area for suitable, species-specific habitat.
The MNR indicated that there is a high probability for bobolink, eastern meadowlark, least
bittern, and barn swallow to occur on the site. As such, the MNR had recommended that
species-specific surveys be conducted to assess the presence/absence of these species.
Bobolink and eastern meadowlark surveys were conducted as per methodology provided by the
MNR (December 2011). Three sets of point count surveys, at least one week apart, were
conducted between June 1 and the first week of July. Surveys began 30 minutes after dawn and
continued until no later than 9 am and were conducted under suitable conditions; no rain, no or
low wind speed, and good visibility. For the purpose of these surveys EcoTec used Tasco
binoculars with a 10x50 mm magnification. During surveys, observations on habitat conditions
were also recorded.
Surveys for the barn swallow were conducted as per point count methodology described in the
OBBA Guide for Participants (March 2001), with particular emphasis on targeting
appropriate/suitable habitat for each species. Culverts and bridges within the study area were
also searched for the presence of barn swallow nests.
Surveys for the least bittern were conducted as per the National Least Bittern Survey Protocol
(Jobin et. al 2011). Surveys were conducted in appropriate least bittern habitat within the study
area using the call response broadcast method. Three visits to each survey station were
conducted between mid-late May and mid-July, with a minimum of 10 days between site visits.
Surveys were completed between 30 minutes before sunrise until 10 am on days with no rain,
fog, extreme heat, or winds exceeding 19 km/h. At each pre-determined station a point count of
13 minutes was carried out with 5 minutes of passive listening, followed by 5 minutes of the
least bittern call, followed by 3 more minutes of passive listening. During the 5 minute least
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bittern call every 30 seconds of calling was followed by 30 seconds of silence. The volume of
the call was between 80-90 dB and the speaker was placed approximately 1 m above water
level.
The MNR has also recommended that butternut surveys be conducted within the study area (E.
Thompson, pers. comm.). Butternut surveys consisted of identifying and tagging butternut trees
within 25 m of the proposed limit of impact.
Finally, the MNR has recommended that a thorough habitat assessment be conducted for the
Blanding’s turtle in order to evaluate impacts to this species and its habitat. Surveys for the
presence of Blanding’s turtles were not required by the MNR as sighting have already been
recorded in the area; However, in addition to identifying areas of suitable habitat, EcoTec
conducted basking surveys as per the visual encounter surveys outlined in the MNR’s
Occurrence Survey Protocol for Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) in Ontario (2013). As
noted in the protocol, searching for basking turtles is the most effective method of confirming the
presence of this species within suitable habitat.
Basking sites were examined by scanning potential sites where wetland vegetation did not
obstruct view of the shorelines and other available basking sites (such as floating logs or
hummocks). Where possible, EcoTec accessed potential habitat from several different locations
or walked part of the shoreline. Blanding’s turtles are easily startled and will quickly dive into the
water if disturbed, so surveyors were sure to walk slowly and quietly and scan ahead with
binoculars. Basking sites, including hummocks, were viewed from the sunlit side.
Basking surveys were conducted after the ice cover had at least partially melted and before
June 15th. Surveys were conducted during sunny periods between 10 am and 5 pm when
basking sites are receiving full sunlight. Air temperature should be between 5°C and 15°C. Five
surveys were carried out over three weeks. For the purpose of these surveys EcoTec used
Tasco binoculars with a 10x50 mm magnification.
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4.0 EXISTING CONDITIONS
Field surveys were undertaken in order to acquire up-to-date information and a photographic
record of the study area. The intent of the field surveys was to set baseline conditions of existing
environmental sensitivities. The following sections provide a summary of the existing biophysical
resources of the study area.
4.1 Soils and Physiography
The study area falls within the Ottawa Valley Clay Plains physiographic region. The Ottawa
Valley consists of clay plains interrupted by ridges of rock or sand (Chapman and Putnam
1984). Previous reports indicated that a review of soil mapping and associated reports revealed
that there are several soil types that occur within the study area, many of which consist of a
shallow layer of undifferentiated materials overlaying sandstone and bedrock (Enbridge 2012).
The Surficial Geology Map shows that some study area wetlands are represented by deep
organic soils over bedrock limestone (City of Ottawa 2009).
4.2 Surface Water
The study area falls within two watersheds, Rideau River and Ottawa River, both within the
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority’s jurisdiction.
The Jock River subwatershed is one of six major sub-watersheds of the Rideau River. It covers
an area of 555 m2 and includes seven tributaries, including Monahan Drain, which crosses Hope
Side Road near the western limits of the study area (RVCA 2011).
The study area falls within two sub-watersheds of the Ottawa River West watershed; Stillwater
Creek and Graham Creek. A tributary to Stillwater Creek crosses West Hunt Club Road just
east of Moodie Drive. The headwaters of Stillwater Creek begin in Stony Swamp and flow north
through a mix of natural, agricultural, and developed lands before connecting with the Ottawa
River (RVCA 2010). Figure 1 illustrates the location of watercourses within the study area.
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4.3 Ground Water
During field investigations conducted by EcoTec in 2012 and 2013, no indication of groundwater
seepage was observed within the study area.
4.4 Fish and Fish Habitat
During the November 2012 and April 2013 field investigations, fisheries surveys were conducted
where Monahan Drain and the tributary to Stillwater Creek cross Hope Side Road and West
Hunt Club Road, respectively. Watercourse crossing photographs are included in Appendix A.
No fish species at risk were identified within the study area during EcoTec’s field surveys. It
should be noted that aquatic habitat usage represents only two days of surveying during each
late fall/early winter and spring conditions. This data does not represent year round fish
assemblages or full habitat and spawning use within the study area watercourses. A list of fish
species found in study area watercourses is included in Tables 2 and 3.
4.1.1 Monahan Drain
The Monahan Drain catchment area covers approximately 4100 ha, representing 7.4% of the
Jock River Subwatershed (RVCA 2010). The subwatershed is predominately rural within
wooded area interspersed throughout (Enbridge 2012). Woodlands represent approximately
315 ha or 8% of the Monahan Drain catchment area, which is less than the 30% required to
maintain a healthy and sustainable ecosystem (RVCA 2010).
Monahan Drain crosses Hope Side Road through a concrete box culvert near the western limits
of the study area. Upstream of Hope Side Road, the watercourse flows through a stormwater
management pond, which is part of the Monahan Drain Stormwater Management Facility.
Downstream of Hope Side Road, the watercourse continues south to join the Jock River.
Flow was observed within Monahan Drain during the November 2012 and April and July 2013
field investigations. At the time of the April 2013 field survey, the upstream reach was
represented by approximately 70% riffle and 30% pool flowing over a mix of detritus, silt, sand,
clay, and gravel. The upstream channel had a mean wetted width and depth of 8 m and 1 m,
respectively and a bankfull width and depth of 9 m and 5 m, respectively.
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The channel morphology downstream was represented by approximately 95% riffle and 5% pool
flowing over a mix of muck, detritus, sand, clay, gravel, cobble and boulders. The downstream
channel had mean wetted and bankfull widths and depths of 8 m and 1.2 m, respectively.
During the April 2013 field survey, water quality parameters measured for Monahan Drain
included a water temperature of 8.9°, pH of 7.76, and conductivity of 1460 µS/cm.
Reaches upstream and downstream of Hope Side Road were well-vegetated both in-stream
and within the riparian area (Photos 1 and 2). Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) and
narrow-leaved cattail (Typha angustifolia) were dominant throughout the reaches. In-stream fish
habitat was provided by emergent and floating vegetation and shoreline vegetation, as well as
undercut banks, boulders, cobble, woody and organic debris.
Monahan Drain is a cool water bait fishery connected to a sport fishery (RVCA 2010). During
the 2012 and 2013 field investigations, fish captured within the study limits included white
sucker (Catostomus commersoni), bluntnose minnow (Pimephales notatus), carp (Cyprinus
carpio), common shiner (Luxilus chrysocephalus), creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus),
northern redbelly dace (Phoxinus eos), brook stickleback (Culaea inconstans), pumpkinseed
(Lepomis gibbosus), and Johnny darter (Etheostoma nigrum).
Table 2: Documented fish species within Monahan Drain.
Common Name Scientific Name Monahan Drain
RVCA EcoTec Mudminnows central mudminnow Umbra limi X Suckers white sucker Catostomus commersoni X X Carps and minnows blackchin shiner Notropis heterodon X blacknose shiner Notropis heterolepis X bluntnose minnow Pimephales notatus X X common carp Cyprinus carpio X X common shiner Luxilus chrysocephalus X X creek chub Semotilus atromaculatus X X fathead minnow Pimephales promelas X golden shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas X
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Common Name Scientific Name Monahan Drain
RVCA EcoTec northern redbelly dace Phoxinus eos X X mimic shiner Notropis volucellus X spottail shiner Notropis hudsonius X North American catfishes brown bullhead Ameiurus nebulosus X Topminnows banded killifish Fundulus diaphanus X Sticklebacks brook stickleback Culaea inconstans X X Sunfishes pumpkinseed Lepomis gibbosus X X rock bass Ambloplites rupestris X sunfish species Lepomis sp. X Perches Johnny darter Etheostoma nigrum X X logperch Percina caprodes X darter species Etheostoma sp. X Sculpins mottled sculpin Cottus bairdi X
4.1.2 Stillwater Creek
Background information provided in a Stream Habitat Assessment conducted by the City of
Ottawa in 2001 (City of Ottawa 2002) indicates Stillwater Creek covers an area of over 2100 ha
and consists of a main channel and two primary tributaries located east of the main channel.
Stillwater Creek receives stormwater inputs from numerous tile drains and outfalls. During the
City of Ottawa’s assessment, localized and cumulative impacts were apparent in the physical
structure and biological community of the Creek, which was dominated by shallow and medium
depth pools, with limited riparian vegetation.
The middle tributary of Stillwater Creek crosses West Hunt Club Road just east of Moodie Drive.
The headwaters of this tributary originate in the Stony Swamp area south of West Hunt Club
Road and flows northerly to where it joins the main tributary of Stillwater Creek. The upstream
reach, south of West Hunt Club Road, was not assessed as part of the 2001 study, as it was
swamp-like, with no defined channel (City of Ottawa 2002).
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During EcoTec’s field investigations, the upstream reach was found to exist as an undefined
channel within a wetland area, dominated by willows (Salix spp.) and cattails (Photo 3). The
downstream reach was more defined, and travelled through a similar wetland area, with reed
canary grass, shrubs and trees (Photo 4). Due to ice conditions during the November 2012 field
investigations, fisheries surveys were not conducted within the tributary to Stillwater Creek. A
fish survey was conducted during EcoTec’s April 2013 investigations; however, no fish were
captured.
As part of the City’s Stream Habitat Assessment, a total of 19 fish species were captured in the
main channel of Stillwater Creek, with three species caught in the tributaries. All were
warmwater species with the exception of sculpin (City of Ottawa 2002). During surveys
completed by RVCA in Stillwater Creek during 2001, eight fish species were captured, including
central mudminnnow (Umbra limi), pearl dace (Margariscus margarita), and brook stickleback
(Culaea inconstans).
Table 3: Documented fish species within Stillwater Creek.
Common Name Scientific Name Stillwater Creek
City of Ottawa RVCA EcoTec
Pikes northern pike Esox Lucius X Mudminnows central mudminnow Umbra limi X X Suckers white sucker Catostomus commersoni X X Carps and minnows blackchin shiner Notropis heterodon X blacknose shiner Notropis heterolepis X X bluntnose minnow Pimephales notatus X brassy minnow X common carp Cyprinus carpio X common shiner Luxilus chrysocephalus X X creek chub Semotilus atromaculatus X X fathead minnow Pimephales promelas X X pearl dace Margariscus margarita X X longnose dace Rhinichthys cataractae X northern redbelly dace Phoxinus eos X X mimic shiner Notropis volucellus X spottail shiner Notropis hudsonius X X
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Common Name Scientific Name Stillwater Creek
City of Ottawa RVCA EcoTec
Topminnows banded killifish Fundulus diaphanus X Sticklebacks brook stickleback Culaea inconstans X X Sunfishes bluegill Lepomis macrochirus X Perches Johnny darter Etheostoma nigrum X logperch Percina caprodes X yellow perch Perca flavescens X X Sculpins mottled sculpin Cottus bairdi X X
4.5 Environmentally Significant Areas
A large part of the study area falls within the NCC’s Stony Swamp Conservation Area. This area
is designated as a Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) complex and is a Candidate Life
Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (LS-ANSI) (OMNR 2010). The Stony Swamp
Conservation Area is the most floristically diverse site known in Site District 6E-12. Over 745
species of vascular plants, including 560 native species have been recorded in this LS-ANSI
(NHIC 2010).
The Stony Swamp Conservation Area is composed of open ponds, flooded woodlands, creek
valleys, as well as forest and thicket swamps. Upland forests also exist within the area, largely
represented by young to mature deciduous forest of sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and beech
(Fagus grandifolia). This area provides both high floristic and habitat diversity, as well as an
extensive system of recreational trails for skiers and hikers throughout the year. More detail on
wetlands within this area is provided in the Section 4.6. No other environmentally significant
areas are located within the study limits. Mapping provided by the NCC indicates the location of
LS-ANSI areas within the study area (Appendix C).
4.6 Terrestrial Communities
As noted above, a large portion of the study area is represented by the Stony Swamp
Conservation Area. Information provided by the NHIC indicated that upland vegetation within
this Candidate LS-ANSI is diverse, with shrubby alvar-like plains, a variety of young early
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successional deciduous and mixed forests, and young to sub-mature deciduous forests of sugar
maple (Acer saccharum) and beech (Fagus grandifolia).
In order to document terrestrial communities within the study area, preliminary field
investigations were conducted along the study area corridor from the intersection of Eagleson
Road and Hope Side Road to the Highway 416 on-ramp from West Hunt Club Road on
November 28, 2012. Additional field investigations were conducted on July 30 and 31, 2013.
As part of the Ottawa Reinforcement Pipeline EA, Dillon Consulting Limited (Dillon) undertook a
field inventory within the ROW on either side of the road for the Preliminary Preferred Route,
which included the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) EA study
area. It should be noted that a white elm (Ulmus americana) was identified immediately west of
Old Richmond Road, approximately 750 m north of Stonehaven Drive and was identified as a
significant elm tree (Enbridge 2012).
The following provides a general description of vegetation communities located within the study
area based on background information provided by the NCC, the Ottawa Reinforcement Project
Environmental and Cumulative Effects Assessment (Enbridge 2012), a review of aerial
photography, as well as EcoTec’s November 2012 and July 2013 field investigations. Figure 2
provides and illustration of the location of terrestrial communities within the study area. Refer to
Appendix C for an illustration of vegetation communities within the study area based on
mapping provided by the NCC. Appendix D provides a list of plant species found within the
study area during the 2012 and 2013 field investigations.
4.7.1 Plantation
Mapping provided by the NCC indicated several areas in the vicinity of the study area are
represented by plantation, including an area northeast of the intersection of Hope Side Road
and Old Richmond Road, an area northeast of the intersection of Old Richmond Road and West
Hunt Club Road, as well as areas both north and south of West Hunt Club Road between
Moodie Drive and Highway 416.
During the EcoTec’s field surveys, it was noted that plantations within the study area included
those dominated by white cedar (Thuja occidentalis), white spruce (Picea glauca), and white
N
Figure 2:Terrestrial communities within the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study limits.
Primary Study Area
Plantation
Deciduous Forest
Mixed Forest
Watercourses
Other
0 500 1000
Meters
West Hunt Club Rd
Old
Ric
hmon
d R
d.
Eagleson Rd.
Hope Side Rd.
Natural Resource Inventory and Assessment Report Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) Environmental Assessment Study City of Ottawa 17
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pine (Pinus strobus) (Photo 5). Staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina), black cherry (Prunus serotina),
poplars (Populus spp.), and bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa) were also noted along the edge of
some plantation communities.
4.7.2 Deciduous Forest
Mapping provided by the NCC indicated areas of deciduous forest east of Old Richmond Road
and both north and south of West Hunt Club Road. During EcoTec’s field surveys, it was noted
that the deciduous forest east of Old Richmond Road was predominately represented by poplar
(Populus spp.), ash (Fraxinus spp.), beech (Fagus grandifolia), and oak (Quercus spp.) (Photo
6). Deciduous communities north and south of West Hunt Club Road were predominately
composed of oak, white birch (Betula papyrifera), poplar, as well as some coniferous species.
4.7.3 Mixed Forest
Mixed forest communities existed east and west of Old Richmond Road, as illustrated on
mapping provided by the NCC. During EcoTec’s field investigations, mixed forest communities
were found to include poplar, beech, ash, white birch, and oak, with white spruce, white pine,
and white cedar. Edges of this community included scattered staghorn sumac, buckthorn,
poplars, and white birch (Photo 7).
Vegetation mapping provided by the NCC indicates the occurrence of a silver maple swamp at
one location west of Old Richmond Road; however, mapping illustrating PSW boundaries
indicates that this area is not part of the PSW. During the EcoTec’s field investigations, this area
was found to be represented by a mixed forest community, with red maple (Acer ruburm), white
pine, red pine (Pinus resinosa), black cherry, and green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) (Photo 8).
Glossy buckthorn was present in the sub-canopy, and dominant in the understory, and ground
layer. In addition, this area was bordered by a thicket swamp dominated by glossy buckthorn.
4.7.5 Other
A utility corridor exists within the study area, crossing Old Richmond Road approximately 700 m
south of its intersection with Hunt Club Road (Photo 9). Mapping provided by the NCC identifies
the vegetation community within the hydro corridor as other. Typically, vegetation within utility
corridors is maintained and is largely represented by herbaceous species. Communities that are
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the result of disturbance and contain a large proportion of herbaceous, non-native species are
classified as cultural meadows based on Ecological Land Classification methodology (Lee et al.
1998).
Along the study area corridor, few areas of cultural meadow existed beyond the ROW. Areas
existing immediately adjacent to the existing roadway, however, were predominately
represented by cultural meadow communities (Photo 10). Dominant species noted in these
roadside areas included birds-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), wild carrot (Daucus carota),
purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), and cow vetch (Vicia cracca). Scattered tree and shrub
species were noted along fence lines adjacent to the roadside and included white elm, common
buckthorn, and staghorn sumac. The significant white elm tree noted in the Ottawa
Reinforcement Pipeline EA (Enbridge 2012) was found to exist immediately west of Old
Richmond Road, approximately 750 m north of Stonehaven Drive (Photo 11).
During EcoTec’s field investigations, it was noted that a large proportion of the study area along
Hope Side Road was represented by agricultural land (Photo 12). At the time of the July 2013
field investigations, construction activities were underway within the northwest corner of Hope
Side Road and Old Richmond Road (Photo 13).
4.7 Wetlands Communities
Field surveys were undertaken on July 30 and 31, 2013 in order to acquire up-to-date
information on existing wetlands within the study area. During the July 2013 investigations,
EcoTec identified several wetland communities within the study area, including cattail shallow
marsh, willow thicket, glossy buckthorn thicket, white cedar swamp, and black ash swamp. The
location and boundaries of the study area wetlands were found to be consistent with the Stony
Swamp Provincially Significant Wetland Complex mapping. Figure 3 provides and illustration of
the wetland communities within the study area.
The Stony Swamp Provincially Significant Wetland Complex (PSW) is made up of 33 individual
wetlands represented by 80% swamp and 20% marsh (OMNR 2010). The NHIC reports that the
Stony Swamp Conservation Area is represented by a complex of shallow, beaver-enhanced
wetlands, with open ponds, shrubby marshes, flooded woodlands, and forest swamps (OMNR
N
Figure 3:Wetland communities within the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study limits.
Primary Study Area
Stony Swamp Provincially Significant Wetland Complex
MAS - Shallow MarshSWT - Swamp ThicketSWD - Deciduous SwampSWC - Coniferous Swamp
Watercourses
0 500 1000
Meters
West Hunt Club Rd
Old
Ric
hmon
d R
d.
Eagleson Rd.
Hope Side Rd.
SWT
SWT
SWT
SWC
SWD SWT
MAS
MAS
MAS
Natural Resource Inventory and Assessment Report Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) Environmental Assessment Study City of Ottawa 20
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2010). Mapping provided by the NCC indicates the location of PSW areas within the study area
(Appendix C).
A Technical Memo entitled “Assessment of the Potential Impacts of Installing Culverts in Stony
Swamp During the Richmond Road Widening” (City of Ottawa 2009), examined the potential
impacts and advisability of installing culverts under Old Richmond Road as part of its widening
in order to establish a surface water connection between the two portions of the Stony Swamp
PSW Complex. The Memo concluded that there is no ecological reason to install culverts under
Old Richmond Road and that the installation of such culverts would create potential adverse
impacts on the hydrology and ecology of both Stony Swamp and Stillwater Creek.
4.7.1 Shallow Marsh
During EcoTec’s field surveys, cattail shallow marsh communities were found throughout the
study area. Small pockets dominated by broad-leaved cattail (Typha angustifolia) that were too
small to map as separate vegetation units were common bordering wooded areas along the
roadside (Photo 14). Several cattail shallow marsh communities with organic soil were found to
extend beyond the roadside ROW, representing large wetland areas, some of which are PSW.
Mapping provided by the NCC identifies these areas as wetland.
The cattail shallow marsh community west of Old Richmond Road and south of the hydro
corridor was dominated by broad-leaved cattail, with scattered purple loosestrife and reed
canary grass (Photo 15). A narrow band of thicket swamp dominated by glossy buckthorn
bordered this wetland area.
The cattail shallow marsh community located both east and west of Old Richmond Road, north
of the hydro corridor, was also dominated by broad-leaved cattail with scattered purple
loosestrife, maple (Acer sp.), eastern white cedar, and dead standing trees (Photo 16).
The area north and south of West Hunt Club Road, immediately east of Moodie Drive was
represented by a cattail shallow marsh adjacent to the roadside (Photo 4). Farther from the
roadside, this wetland area south of West Hunt Club was represented by a thicket swamp with
scattered pockets of cattail shallow marsh.
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4.7.2 Thicket Swamp
Thicket swamp communities were found within the study area along Old Richmond Road and
West Hunt Club Road. Thicket swamps were generally located in the transition zone between
marshes and forest or swamp communities (Photo 7). Most thicket swamp communities within
the study area were dominated by glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus), while some were
dominated by willows. Glossy buckthorn is becoming a problem in Ottawa-area wetlands where
it is considered to be one the most aggressive alien species (OIPC 2012). Thicket swamp
communities dominated by glossy buckthorn included scattered black ash and willows (Salix
spp.) in the canopy and sub-canopy, as well as cinnamon fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum),
and sensitive fern (Onoclea sensibilis) in the understory and ground layer.
Mapping provided by the NCC indicates an area of PSW located north and south of West Hunt
Club Road, east of Moodie Drive. The wetland area south of the roadway was represented by a
large thicket swamp dominated by slender willow (Salix petiolaris) and meadowsweet (Spiraea
alba) with scattered pockets of cattail shallow marsh (Photo 3). North of the roadway, a small
wetland area was represented by cattail shallow marsh and swamp thicket dominated by glossy
buckthorn (Photo 18).
4.7.3 Swamp
During EcoTec’s field investigations, a white cedar swamp and a black ash swamp with organic
soil were found to exist along Old Richmond Road. It should be noted that mapping provided by
the NCC indicates the occurrence of a silver maple swamp at one location west of Old
Richmond Road. Mapping provided by NCC illustrating the Stony Swamp Wetland Complex
indicated that this area is not represented by PSW. Based on EcoTec’s field investigations, this
area is best described as a mixed forest. Dominant tree species noted within this community
included some wetland species, such as red maple (Acer ruburm), white pine, and green ash
(Fraxinus pennsylvanica) as well as some that are not wetland species, including black cherry
and red pine (Pinus resinosa). Glossy buckthorn was present in the sub-canopy, and dominant
in the understory, and ground layer.
A white cedar swamp community with mineral soil was found to exist northeast of the
intersection of Hope Side Road and Old Richmond Road. This area is illustrated as plantation
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on vegetation mapping provided by NCC; however, mapping provided by NCC illustrating the
Stony Swamp Wetland Complex indicated that this area is represented by PSW. During
EcoTec’s field investigations, this community was found to be represented almost entirely by
white cedar in the canopy (Photo 19). Scattered balsam fir (Abies balsamea) and black ash
were also noted. The sub-canopy and understory were dominated by glossy buckthorn. Mosses,
sedges (Carex spp.), and poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii) were evident in the ground layer.
It should be noted that the edge of this community, located adjacent to the existing roadway,
was composed of a mix of white cedar as well as ash (Fraxinus spp.), poplars (Populus spp.),
and glossy buckthorn.
A black ash swamp community with organic soil existed west of Old Richmond Road, north of
the hydro corridor. Mapping provided by the NCC identifies this area as flooded land and PSW
(Appendix C). It should be noted that this community was separated from the roadway be a
cattail shallow marsh. The canopy was dominated by black ash and Freeman’s maple (Acer x.
freemanii). The sub-canopy was represented by glossy buckthorn, alder (Alnus incana), as well
as scattered white cedar and black ash. The understory and ground layer was represented by
sensitive fern, cinnamon fern, with scattered jewelweed (Impatiens capensis). Standing water
was noted throughout this community during the July 2013 field investigations (Photo 21).
4.8 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat
The study area and adjacent lands provide a diversity of habitat components essential to life
processes of wildlife utilizing the area. These habitat components include marshes, meadows,
agricultural fields, and forest stands.
Mammals identified during the 2012 field surveys included grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis),
red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus), coyote (Canis latrans), and white-tailed deer
(Odocoileus virginianus). A snapping turtle was observed on two occasions within suitable
habitat within the study area. In addition, dead snapping turtles were observed on the road
during the June 6, 2013 field investigations. Painted turtles were also observed during field
investigations.
The Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (OBBA) provides data in areas defined by 10 kilometre
squares. Square 18VR31 of the database includes the study area and indicates 62 confirmed
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bird species and 48 other species of migratory birds with a possible or probable likelihood of
breeding within the area. According to OBBA data, three bird species at risk have been
historically documented within the area including barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), bobolink
(Dolichonyx oryzivorus), and eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna). There is some potential for
these and other bird species at risk to utilize habitat provided within the study area. As such, the
MNR recommended that breeding bird surveys be conducted to assess the presence of bird
species at risk within the study limits. One bird species at risk, the barn swallow, was observed
during EcoTec’s field investigations. Further discussion is provided below in Section 4.9 Species
at Risk. Bird species identified during the site visits are provided in Table 4.
Area sensitive species listed in the SWHTG (MNR 2000) are those requiring large areas of
suitable habitat for long term population survival. Area sensitive bird species identified within the
study area included northern harrier (Circus cyaneus) and black-and-white warbler (Mniotilta
varia).
Table 4: Bird species observed within the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study area during the 2013 field surveys.
Common Name Scientific Name Status Double-crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus Canada Goose Branta canadensis Mallard Anas platyrhynchos Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus AS Wild Turkey Meleagris gallopavo Killdeer Charadrius vociferus Ring-billed Gull Larus delawarensis Herring Gull Larus argentatus Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura Eastern Phoebe Sayornis phoebe Eastern Kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica THREATENED Black-capped chickadee Poecile atricapillus American Robin Turdus migratorius European Starling Sturnus vulgaris Cedar Waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia Black-and-white warbler Mniotilta varia AS
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Common Name Scientific Name Status Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas Chipping Sparrow Spizella passerina Field Sparrow Spizella pusill Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia Red-winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus Common Grackle Quiscalus quiscula Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula House Finch Haemorhous mexicanus American Goldfinch Carduelis tristis
AS – Area sensitive species described in Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (OMNR 2000).
4.9 Species at Risk
A review of background information indicated the potential for a number of species at risk to
utilize the study area. The MNR’s NHIC database includes records for least bittern (Ixobrychus
exilis), milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum), and flooded jellyskin (Leptogium rivulare) within
square 18VR31. Communication with MNR indicated a number of additional documented
species at risk within the site, or in close proximity to it, including butternut, bobolink, whip-poor-
will, black tern, eastern ribbonsnake, Blanding’s turtle and snapping turtle. Communication with
MNR also indicated that potential suitable habitat for eastern meadowlark, barn swallow,
Henslow’s sparrow, chimney swift, and short-eared owl exists within the study area (E.
Thompson, pers. comm.).
As part of the Ottawa Reinforcement Pipeline EA, Dillon Consulting Limited (Dillon) undertook a
field inventory to identify any potential species at risk within the ROW and 50 m on either side of
the road for the Preliminary Preferred Route, which included the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road
Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) EA study area (Enbridge 2012). Results of these inventories
are included in the following discussion.
Bird Species at Risk Surveys
The MNR recommended that breeding bird surveys be conducted to assess the presence of
bird species at risk within the study limits, including whip-poor-will, black tern, Henslow’s
sparrow, chimney swift, and short-eared owl. The MNR also recommended that potential habitat
Natural Resource Inventory and Assessment Report Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) Environmental Assessment Study City of Ottawa 25
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within and in proximity to the study area be assessed to determine suitability for these bird
species at risk.
The whip-poor-will, a nationally and provincially threatened species, prefers a mix of open
habitat, suitable for foraging, and forested habitat, suitable for roosting and nesting (ROM 2010).
The main threats to the whip-poor-will are likely habitat loss and degradation (OMNR 2009).
During field inventories conducted by EcoTec and Dillon, whip-poor-wills were not identified
within the study area. It was noted that significant habitat, as defined in the MNR’s Significant
Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (OMNR 2000), did not exist within or adjacent to the
Preliminary Preferred Route (Enbridge 2012).
The black tern, a species of special concern in Ontario, is a small bird that inhabits shallow
marshes. Declines have been occurring since the 1980s due to wetland drainage and alteration,
water pollution, and human disturbance, such as boating, at nesting colonies (ROM 2006).
Areas of cattail shallow marsh within the study area may provide habitat for the black tern;
however, this species was not observed during EcoTec’s field investigations.
Henslow’s sparrow is endangered nationally and provincially. This species breeds only in old
fields, pastures, and wet meadows, where succession to thicket and forest has not yet occurred
(ROM 2008). Henslow’s sparrow was not observed during field investigations conducted by
Dillon, nor was this species observed during EcoTec’s field investigations. It was noted that
suitable habitat may exist in the area adjacent to the Preferred Preliminary Route (Enbridge
2012). Similarly, suitable habitat for this species was found to exist within primary study area for
the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) EA.
The chimney swift, a nationally and provincially threatened species, nests almost exclusively in
man-made structures, in particular chimneys (ROM 2010). Threats to the chimney swift are
believed to be related to declines in their prey, flying insects (OMNR 2009). The Ottawa
Reinforcement Pipeline EA noted that suitable habitat for the chimney swift was not observed
immediately adjacent to the Preferred Preliminary Route (Enbridge 2012). During EcoTec’s field
investigations, it was noted that some houses with chimneys exist within the study area and
may provide suitable habitat for this species. It should be noted, however, that the chimney swift
was not observed during EcoTec’s surveys.
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The short-eared owl, a species of special concern provincially and nationally, prefers open
areas, such as grasslands, marshes, and tundra. Threats to the short-eared owl in Ontario
include loss of marshes (ROM 2005). Study area grasslands and marshes may provide suitable
habitat for the short-eared owl; however, this species was not observed during EcoTec’s field
investigations.
Potential Habitat for Species at Risk
The MNR recommended that potential habitat within and in proximity to the study area be
assessed to determine suitability for flooded jellyskin, milksnake, eastern ribbonsnake, and
snapping turtle.
Flooded jellyskin is a nationally and provincially threatened species of lichen. This species is
found growing on rocks and at the base of living deciduous trees at the margins of vernal pools.
It is rare due to its strict habitat requirements and is threatened by urban development and
recreational activities (COSEWIC 2004). Flooded jellyskin was not observed during surveys
conducted as part of the Ottawa Reinforcement Pipeline EA (Enbridge 2012). Suitable habitat
for flooded jellyskin may exist within the black ash deciduous swamp; however, this species was
not observed during EcoTec’s field investigations.
The milksnake is a species of special concern provincially and nationally. Milksnakes live in a
wide range of habitats, including fields, where rodents are common. This species feeds on small
mammals, including mice, as well as small ground-nesting birds (ROM 2008). Threats to this
species include harm by humans, road kill, and habitat loss due to urbanization (Ontario Nature
2011). Milksnake is a habitat generalist and, as such, the study area may provide suitable
habitat; however, this species was not observed during EcoTec’s field investigations.
The eastern ribbonsnake is a species of special concern nationally and provincially. This
species is usually found close to water and in marshes where it can hunt for frogs and small
fish. Threats to the eastern ribbonsnake are likely related to the reduction of wetland habitat in
Ontario (ROM 2006). Areas of cattail shallow marsh within the study area may provide habitat
for the eastern ribbonsnake; however, this species was not observed during EcoTec’s field
investigations.
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Snapping turtles are usually found in small bodies of water and sometimes utilize ponds. Road
mortality and nest predation are among the threats to snapping turtles in Ontario (ROM 2010).
During field investigations conducted by Dillon, snapping turtles were not observed; however, it
was noted that suitable habitat existed within lands adjacent to the Preliminary Preferred Route
(Enbridge 2012). Similarly, during EcoTec’s field investigations, it was noted that suitable habitat
for this species existed within the primary study area for the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road
Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) EA. Dead snapping turtles were noted along Old Richmond
Road approximately 120 m south of West Hunt Club Road during EcoTec’s June 2013 field
investigations.
Species-specific Surveys for Species at Risk
The MNR has indicated that there is a high probability for Blanding’s turtle, bobolink, eastern
meadowlark, least bittern, and barn swallow to occur on the site. As such, the MNR had
recommended that species-specific surveys be conducted to assess the presence/absence of
these species.
The Blanding’s turtle, a provincially and nationally threatened species, is a medium-sized turtle
that inhabits lakes streams and wetlands, with preference for shallow wetland areas with
abundant vegetation. The Blanding’s turtle is largely threatened by factors reducing nesting
success, such as predation by raccoons and skunks, parasitism, and cool summer
temperatures that result in fewer hatchlings (ROM 2008). Blanding’s turtles were not observed
during surveys conducted by Dillon as part of the Ottawa Reinforcement Pipeline EA. It was
noted, however, that suitable wetland habitat existed adjacent to the Preferred Preliminary
Route (Enbridge 2012).
EcoTec conducted basking surveys as per the visual encounter surveys outlined in the MNR’s
Occurrence Survey Protocol for Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) in Ontario (2013).
Basking surveys were completed on May 16, 27, 28, 31, 2013 and June 4, 2013 at four different
locations in order to assess potential winter habitat for Blanding’s turtles within and adjacent to
the study area. Blanding’s turtles were not observed within the study area or its vicinity.
Potential habitat for Blanding’s turtles was not observed within the scoped study area (120 m
from either side of the existing roadway); however, potential habitat was noted beyond 120 m
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southeast of West Hunt Club Road and Moodie Drive intersection and southwest of Old
Richmond Road and West Hunt Club Road. Although no Blanding’s turtles were found, female
Blanding’s turtles have been known to travel up to 6 km in order to nest (MNR, 2013). A
summary of turtle observations can be found in Table 5.
Table 5. Summary of results for turtle surveys conducted in the Hope Side/Old Richmond Road Corridor (Terry Fox to Hwy 416) study area during 2013.
Date Air Temp.
Location
Storm Water Pond (Hope Side Road)
Sarparilla Trail (Richmond Road)
Beaver Trail (Moodie Drive)
Beaver Trail (Hunt Club Road)
May 16, 2013 14 oC No turtles 1 painted turtle 1 snapping turtle No turtles No turtles
May 27, 2013 12 oC 2 painted turtles 7 painted turtles No turtles 1 painted turtle
May 28, 2013 20 oC 7 painted turtles 3 painted turtles (2 mating) No turtles No turtles
May 31, 2013 22 oC 3 painted turtles 4 painted turtles No turtles No turtles
June 4, 2013 18 oC 1 painted turtle 4 painted turtles 1 snapping turtle No turtles 3 painted turtles
The bobolink, a nationally and provincially threatened species, can be found in open meadows
such as tallgrass prairie, grasslands, and hay fields (OMNR 2011). In Ontario, there are a
number of causes for the decline of this species. During field inventories conducted by Dillon,
bobolinks were not observed; however, it was noted that suitable existed in lands adjacent to
the Preliminary Preferred Route (Enbridge 2012). Eastern meadowlark, a nationally and
provincially threatened species, is most common in native grasslands, pastures, and savannahs
and may use a wide variety of other cultural grassland habitats (COSSARO 2011). One of the
main causes of the decline in eastern meadowlark populations is habitat loss.
Bobolink and eastern meadowlark surveys were conducted as per methodology provided by the
MNR (December 2011). EcoTec completed a total of three surveys for the bobolink and eastern
meadowlark on June 12, 21 and 27, 2013 with a minimum of a week between each survey.
During EcoTec’s field investigations, the area south of Hope Side Road was surveyed for the
presence of bobolink and eastern meadowlark, as it is represented by vast open agricultural
land. One small area north of Hope Side Road at Eagleson Road was also surveyed; however,
given the small parcel of land it is unlikely habitat for bobolink.
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During the field surveys it was noted that the farmland south of Hope Side Road was planted
with corn and soybean, while the field along West Hunt Club Road was planted with corn. This
large open agricultural area could potentially provide habitat for both bobolink and eastern
meadowlark planted with hay; however, the crops present during the 2013 field surveys did not
provide suitable habitat and, as such, bobolinks or eastern meadowlarks were not observed or
heard during the field surveys.
The least bittern, a nationally and provincially threatened species, is often found in large
marshes with tall emergent vegetation, such as cattails (Gibbs et al. 1992). The main threat to
the least bittern is the conversion of wetlands to farmland and urban development (ROM 2008).
During field inventories conducted by Dillon, least bitterns were not observed; however, it was
noted that suitable wetland habitat was observed within wetland areas adjacent to the
Preliminary Preferred Route (Enbridge 2012).
Species-specific surveys for the least bittern were completed using Environment Canada’s
National Least Bittern Survey Protocol on June 13, 24, and July 10, 2013 at five different
locations within the study area. Suitable habitat for this species was found to exist within the
study area; however, least bitterns were not observed during field investigations. It should be
noted that a pied-billed grebe, which is a priority marsh bird as noted in the protocol, was heard
at station 4 on July 10, 2013. The call was heard during the 9 minute mark into the 13 minute
playback (or 4 min into the 5 min least bittern call). The pied-billed grebe was more than 100 m
away. At all five locations throughout the surveys red-winged blackbirds responded to the least
bittern calls.
The barn swallow is threatened nationally and provincially. This bird species prefers open
habitat, especially fields and agricultural land around buildings near water (ROM 2013). Though
the causes for this species’ decline are not well understood, loss of habitat is believed to be a
contributing factor (COSSARO 2011). Species-specific surveys were conducted for the barn
swallow by searching for this species within study area bridges and culverts. During EcoTec’s
field investigations, a barn swallow was observed within the storm water pond area of Monahan
Drain; however, no nests were found within 120 m of the roadway.
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Finally, the MNR recommended that butternut surveys also be conducted within the study area
(E. Thompson, pers. comm.). Butternut is a provincially and nationally endangered tree species
that can be found growing alone or in small groups in deciduous forests in Ontario. Butternut
trees are in decline due to a fungal disease, butternut canker, which can kill a tree within a few
years (OMNR 2012). During field inventories conducted by Dillon, two dead butternut trees were
identified east of Old Richmond Road (Enbridge 2012).
Butternut surveys were conducted within the study area during EcoTec’s July 30 and 31 field
investigations. Three live butternut specimens were found within the study area; however, the
trees are located beyond the proposed project limits.
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5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION
This section of the report describes the potential impacts on the natural environment associated
with the proposed project. This section also outlines proposed mitigation measures in order to
minimize or prevent negative impacts of the proposed works.
5.1 Erosion and Sediment Control
Potential Impacts
Road widening and realignment, as well as embankment reconstruction may result in the
suspension of sediment into the study area drainage channels, watercourses, and wetlands.
Similarly, exposed soils and/or stock piles of excess material (such as earth, rock, concrete or
wood) located adjacent to watercourses can result in the release of sediment into watercourses
during rain events.
Mitigation
In order to prevent the entry of sediment into drainage channels, watercourses, and wetlands
various sediment and erosion control measures, as well as operational constraints, should be
incorporated into the final contract package. It is recommended that the following be included:
� In order to mitigate the transport of sediment, environmental protection measures (such as straw bale flow checks, rock flow check dams, silt fence barriers, and erosion control blankets) should be incorporated into the final design and installed during construction. Ontario Provincial Standard Provision (OPSS) 805 Construction Specifications for Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control Measure should be included in the final contract package in order to provide construction specifications for these measures;
� Any construction works should be isolated from watercourses and conducted ‘in the dry’;
� Where dewatering is required, effluent should be discharged so as to prevent entry of sediment to watercourses;
� In order to minimize sources of fine sediment that may potentially enter study area watercourses, clean granular materials, free of fines, should be used for road or slope stabilization construction adjacent to study area watercourses;
� Exposed slopes should also be protected by requiring the Contractor to limit the time that such areas are exposed prior to final application of topsoil and seed;
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� Following the completion of final site grading and topsoil application, a suitable seed mixture should be applied to all exposed soils;
� Installation of silt fence barriers should be 2 m from the final toe-of-slope for any roadway embankment areas adjacent to watercourses.
5.2 Surface Water Contamination and Debris Accumulation
Potential Impacts
Construction activities, such as refuelling, may increase the potential for accidental fuel or
lubricant spillage, debris accumulation, and subsequent contamination to surface water.
Construction activities may also result in litter and debris accumulation within the study limits.
Mitigation
In order to prevent surface water contamination during construction, measures should be taken
to avoid accidental spillage or discharge of chemical contaminates (e.g., gasoline, oils and
lubricants). It is recommended that the following measures be taken:
� All mobile equipment refuelling should take place no closer than 30 m from wetted
roadside drainage channels, watercourses, and wetlands in order to prevent water contamination due to accidental fuel spillage. For non-mobile equipment, refuelling should be carried out in a controlled manner so as to prevent fuel spillage. In addition, a drip pan should be installed under any non-mobile equipment working within the construction zone.
� All equipment operating near wetted roadside channels, watercourses, and wetlands should be properly maintained in order to avoid contaminant leakage and should be free of excess oil/grease.
� The contract package should provide contact information for the Spills Action Centre (1-800-268-6060). An emergency spill response kit should be on site at all times and in the event that a spill occurs, proper containment, clean up and reporting, in accordance with provincial requirements, is required.
� The Contractor must take all necessary precautions to prevent the accumulation of litter and construction debris within any natural areas outside of the construction grading limits.
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5.3 Groundwater
Potential Impacts
Construction activities at locations of groundwater discharge may result in negative impacts to
water levels and flow, as well as potential contamination.
Mitigation
If seepage or areas where the groundwater table is high are identified during project
construction, work within that area should be scheduled from mid to late summer when water
table levels are depressed. This will minimize potential disruption or contamination of
groundwater.
5.4 Fish and Fish Habitat
Potential Impacts
In general, works in and around watercourses may result in the suspension of sediment into
study area watercourses or wetted roadside channels from disturbances and loss of the existing
vegetative cover. Similarly, exposed soils and/or stock piles of excess material (such as earth,
rock, concrete or wood) located adjacent to watercourses can result in the transport of
sediments into the watercourse during rain events.
Suspension of sediments can have direct negative effects on resident fish such as respiratory
stress, reduced feeding efficiency, and impairment of physiologic processes such as growth and
reproduction. Indirect effects may include changes in the diversity of benthic invertebrates (food
source), and the loss of spawning and nursery habitat. Elevated levels of suspended sediments
may result in a shift in fish population diversity and density, as various species will leave the
area for more suitable environments. Therefore, impacts due to construction activities may
affect immediate fish populations, as well as those within downstream reaches.
Mitigation
In order to prevent and minimize unnecessary degradation of fish habitat within study area
watercourses, appropriate environmental protection measures, operational constraints, and in-
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water work timing restrictions should applied during activities at all watercourse crossings. It is
recommended the following be included:
� Due to the presence of both warm and cold water fish species in the study area
watercourses, it is anticipated that any required in-water works or work on channel banks will be restricted to a period from July 1 to September 30; however, this will need to be confirmed with the MNR;
� In order to mitigate the transport of sediment along ditch lines, as well as exposed soils adjacent to sensitive areas, environmental protection measures (such as straw bale flow checks, rock flow check dams, silt fence barriers, and erosion control blankets) should be incorporated into the final design, as necessary, and should be installed during construction;
� Any construction works should be isolated from the watercourses and conducted ‘in the dry’;
� Prior to commencement of any in-water work, the work area should be isolated and all fish
and aquatic wildlife should be removed and released upstream of the work area. The fish rescue and relocation must be completed by a qualified Fisheries Biologist under a Licence to Collect Fish (LCF) for Scientific Purposes obtained from the MNR. All captured fish must be identified to species, enumerated and live released downstream of the work area;
� All dewatering operations for embankment construction should be outlet onto a grassed
area away from the nearest watercourse or into an appropriate filtering mechanism/settling pond;
� Silt barriers should be installed approximately 2 m from the final toe-of-slope for any disturbed embankment areas adjacent to watercourses;
� Following the completion of final site grading and top soil application, a seed mixture should be applied to all exposed soils;
� Exposed slopes should be protected to limit the time that such areas are exposed prior to final application of topsoil and seed. In areas adjacent to watercourses, the Contractor should apply topsoil and seed immediately following completion of construction activities; and
� Removal or disturbance of woody riparian vegetation should be minimized during
construction activities in order to prevent unnecessary loss of watercourse shading, over hanging cover, or bank stability.
5.5 Environmentally Significant Areas
Potential Impacts
A large part of the study area falls within the NCC’s Stony Swamp Conservation Area. This area
is designated as a Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) complex and is a Candidate Life
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Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (LS-ANSI) (OMNR 2010). Refer to Section 7.7
Wetlands for information on associated potential impacts and mitigation. No other
environmentally significant areas are located within the study limits.
5.6 Terrestrial Communities
Potential Impacts
The proposed project will result in the loss of some vegetation due to widening. Loss of
terrestrial vegetation is expected to occur within areas of cultural meadow existing within the
roadway ROW, as well as the edge of forest communities existing adjacent to the ROW.
Proposed activities are unlikely to have significant negative impacts on vegetation units within
the study area. Impacts to the NCC’s Stony Swamp Conservation Area are expected to be
minimal as the widening zone is limited to the edge of these vegetation communities. During
detail design, an appropriate planting plan will be developed in order to promote regeneration of
suitable native vegetation along the edges following completion of construction.
No vulnerable, threatened, or endangered vegetation species were identified within the
proposed grading limits. As noted in Section 4.9, three live butternut specimens were found
within the study area; however, the trees are located well beyond the proposed grading limits
and no impact to these trees is anticipated.
Construction activities may result in the temporary disturbance of vegetation outside of the
proposed grading limits.
Mitigation
In order to reduce impacts on vegetation units within and adjacent to the grading limits, the
following measures should be implemented:
� Vegetation removal should be minimized where possible;
� Following completion of grading and topsoil application, disturbed areas should be re-seeded with a seed mixture that will promote suitable native vegetation regeneration;
� Tree barrier protection should be in accordance with OPSS 801 Construction Specification for the Protection of Trees in order to demarcate and protect existing trees along cut lines from equipment damage;
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� Delineation of vegetation clearing zones and vegetation retention zones should be made
clear on construction specifications and in the field;
� Specifications for appropriate tree felling and grubbing procedures should be implemented in order to minimize impacts on surrounding vegetation;
� Appropriate edge planting strategies, including the installation of native plant species, should be utilized along any newly created edges of wooded areas; and
� A restoration and seeding plan should be developed and a Vegetation Specialist should
monitor that all seeding and plantings are installed and maintained in accordance with the Contract requirements.
5.7 Wetlands
Potential Impacts
A large part of the study area falls within the NCC’s Stony Swamp Conservation Area. This area
is designated as a Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) complex and is a Candidate Life
Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (LS-ANSI) (OMNR 2010). The Stony Swamp
Conservation Area is composed of open ponds, flooded woodlands, creek valleys, as well as
forest and thicket swamps. It is anticipated that the proposed activities will result in the loss of
some wetland area adjacent to the existing ROW.
Construction activities may result in the temporary disturbance of wetland areas outside of the
proposed grading limits. The excavation and grading of earth material due to construction may
result in the release of sediment into the adjacent wetlands. In addition, exposed soils and/or
stockpiles of excess material (such as earth, rock, concrete, or wood) can result in sediment
transport into the adjacent wetlands.
Mitigation
It is recommended that disturbance to the wetland areas be minimized, where possible, and
appropriate restrictions and mitigation measures be implemented in order to reduce the
potential for negative impacts. These measures should include the following:
� Drainage within the project limits should be designed so as to maintain the existing hydrological regime of the area;
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� Vegetation clearing within wetland areas should be minimized, where possible;
� Appropriate erosion and sediment control measures should be implemented at locations where there is potential for sediment release to study area wetlands;
� No equipment should enter wetlands outside of the grading limits;
� Construction activities adjacent to wetlands should occur from within the grading limits;
� No long-term stockpiling of excavated material should occur within 30 m of a Provincially Significant Wetland;
� In order to minimize the spread of invasive species, all equipment should be thoroughly
cleaned with water before it is moved from one area to another.
Compensation Strategy
In order to ensure no net loss of wetland function as a result of the proposed project, it is
recommended that compensation be provided. It is anticipated that a more detailed wetland
compensation plan will be developed as the project proceeds; however, some guidelines for the
general strategy are provided below.
It is recommended that compensation be provided through restoration or enhancement of
drained or altered naturally occurring wetlands within the NCC’s Stony Swamp Conservation
Area. Restoration would involve reestablishing a wetland where it previously occurred. Property
acquired as part of the proposed project may provide opportunity for wetland restoration sites.
As noted in Section 4.7.2, most thicket swamp communities within the study area were
dominated by glossy buckthorn, which is becoming a problem in Ottawa-area wetlands where it
is considered to be one the most aggressive alien species (OIPC 2012). As such, removal of
glossy buckthorn should be considered as an enhancement technique. Following completion of
restoration, an assessment of restored areas should be completed.
5.8 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat
Potential Impacts
While a variety of wildlife habitat exists within and adjacent to the project limits, no critical
habitat was identified during EcoTec’s field investigations. Based on findings during the 2012
and 2013 field investigations and the nature of the proposed activities, no permanent negative
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impacts on wildlife or wildlife habitat are anticipated in the area as a result of the project.
Vegetation removal associated with the proposed project may, however, result in the temporary
displacement of wildlife species utilizing the area.
Potential impacts to wildlife species at risk are provided in the Section 7.9 below.
Mitigation
In order to minimize the temporary displacement of wildlife species potentially utilizing the study
area, it is recommended that efforts be made to minimize vegetation removal within the project
limits.
It is recommended that clearing activities take place outside the bird nesting season of May 1 to
August 1. If clearing work must be conducted during the breeding bird season a detailed
breeding/nesting bird survey should be conducted by an avian specialist prior to the beginning
of clearing activities in order to verify potential nesting activity. If nesting activities are observed
during clearing/construction, works in that area should cease and the MNR should be contacted
immediately.
Additional mitigation measures for wildlife and wildlife species at risk are provided in the
following section.
5.9 Species at Risk
Potential Impacts
EcoTec conducted field investigations within the primary study area in order to document a
number of potential species at risk and their habitat. Three species at risk, the snapping turtle,
butternut, and barn swallow, were observed during EcoTec’s field investigations.
Potential habitat within the study area was assessed for suitability to snapping turtles. A
snapping turtle was observed on two occasions within suitable habitat within the study area. In
addition, dead snapping turtles were observed on the road during the June 6, 2013 field
investigations.
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Species-specific surveys were conducted for the barn swallow, a nationally and provincially
threatened species, by searching for this species within study area bridges and culverts. One
barn swallow was observed in the Monahan Drain Stormwater Management Facility, which is in
the vicinity of the study area; however, no nests were found within 120 m of the roadway.
Three live butternut specimens were found within the study area; however, the trees are located
well beyond the proposed project limits and no impact to these trees is anticipated.
Potential habitat for Blanding’s turtles was not observed within the scoped study area (120 m
from either side of the existing roadway); however, potential habitat was noted beyond 120 m
southeast of West Hunt Club Road and Moodie Drive intersection and southwest of Old
Richmond Road and West Hunt Club Road. Although no Blanding’s turtles were found, female
Blanding’s turtles have been known to travel up to 6 km in order to nest (MNR, 2013).
Habitat for bobolink and eastern meadowlark did not exist at the time of the 2013 field surveys.
Based on habitat present during the 2013 field investigations, no impacts are to bobolink or
eastern meadowlark are expected as a result of road construction.
Other species at risk that may occur within in the vicinity of the study area include Henslow’s
sparrow, whip-poor-will, chimney swift, short-eared owl, black tern, flooded jellyskin, milksnake,
eastern ribbonsnake, and least bittern. Based on findings during the 2012 and 2013 surveys
and the nature of the proposed activities, no permanent negative impacts on these species are
anticipated in the area as a result of the project.
Mitigation
No negative impacts to the Blanding’s turtle are anticipated as a result of the proposed project;
however, due to their potential to utilize the study area and its vicinity, a number of mitigation
measures are recommended. These mitigation measures will also function to minimize potential
impacts to snapping turtles and painted turtles. The MNR has indicated that timing restrictions
apply from October 16 – March 15 to protect at risk hibernating turtles. If the proposed project
activities are to occur during this time, the MNR recommends fencing off the site in early fall to
prevent turtle hibernation with the work area. The MNR has also indicated that caution should
be taken during the turtle nesting season in June and early July as turtles use embankments
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and other terrestrial sites for nesting. During the active season (April 1 – October 30), the MNR
recommended a thorough sweep of the area before works begin to encourage any turtles using
the site to move away.
Should work be required during the active season (April 1 – October 30), it is recommended that
exclusion fencing (e.g. silt fencing) or another appropriate barrier must be installed in March at a
number of locations in order to deter any nesting turtles (as well as other reptiles or amphibians)
from entering the construction area. These locations include the cattail swales along Old
Richmond Road approximately 1 km north of Stonehaven Drive, approximately 160 m south of
Old Richmond Road, and West Hunt Club Road as well as at Monahan Drain and the Tributary
to Stillwater Creek. Exclusion fencing should be maintained and checked each day prior to
activities commencing to ensure species are not trapped inside the work area.
In order to minimize the risk of turtle road mortality, it is recommended that a system of dry
culverts, barrier walls, and fencing be installed to allow turtle migration under the road. This type
of system has been put in place as part of the Terry Fox Drive Extension Project, within the City
of Ottawa. An on-going study on the effectiveness of the Terry Fox Drive Wildlife Guide System
suggests that culverts work to reduce the potential for road mortality in turtles (Dillon 2013). A
summary of the Terry Fox Wildlife Guide System, information on follow-up monitoring, as well
as future recommendations are provided in the South March Highland’s Blanding’s Turtle
Conservation Needs Assessment (Dillon 2013). It is recommended that the Terry Fox Wildlife
Guide System be utilized as guidance in the design of a similar system as part of this project.
If construction activities be required to occur within 25 m of any butternut tree, the Kemptville
District MNR Species at Risk Biologist should be contacted.
It should be noted that bobolink and eastern meadowlark may begin to inhabit agricultural fields
within the study area if they are left fallow in following seasons. If clearing is required during the
breeding bird season (May 1 – August 1), it is recommended that the areas previously surveyed
for bobolink and eastern meadowlark be surveyed prior to construction to determine whether
these areas provide suitable habitat.
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On site personnel should receive training on all potential species at risk. Thorough sweeps of
the work area should be conducted on days when construction is to occur to identify the
occurrence of any species at risk within the work area. Although no negative impacts to species
at risk are anticipated as a result of the proposed widening, if during construction, any species
at risk are observed or it is determined that their habitat may be impacted, the Kemptville District
MNR Species at Risk Biologist should be contacted immediately.
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6.0 REFERENCES
Champan, L.J. and D.F. Putnam. 1984. The Physiography of Southern Ontario. Ministry of Natural Resources.
City of Ottawa. 2009. Technical Memo: Assessment of the Potential Impacts of Installing
Culverts in Stony Swamp During the Richmond Road Widening. Prepared by Nicholas Stow, Senior Planner, Policy Development and Urban Design (Natural Systems).
City of Ottawa, 2002. Stream Habitat Assessment, Stillwater Creek – 2001. Prepared by the
Water Protection Program, Utilities Services, transportation, Utilities and Public Works. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). 2007. COSWIC
Assessment and Status Report on the Flooded Jellyskin Leptogium rivulare in Canada. http://publications.gc.ca/collections/Collection/CW69-14-391-2004E.pdf
Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO). 2011. COSSARO
Candidate Species Risk Evaluation: Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica). http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/stdprodconsume/groups/lr/@mnr/@species/documents/resear
ch/stdprod_091151.pdf Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO). 2011. COSSARO
Candidate Species Risk Evaluation: Eastern Meadowlark. http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/stdprodconsume/groups/lr/@mnr/@species/documents/resear
ch/stdprod_091154.pdf Dillon Consulting Limited (Dillon). 2013. South March Highlands Blanding’s Turtles
Conservation Needs Assessment on behalf of the City of Ottawa. http://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/public-consultations/environment/south-march-highlands-
blandings-turtle-conservation-needs Enbridge Gas Distribution. 2012. Ottawa Reinforcement Project Environmental and Cumulative
Effects Assessment. https://www.enbridgegas.com/about/pipeline-and-construction-projects/ottawa-reinforcement-project.aspx?subpage=3
Gibbs, J. P., F. A. Reid, and S. M. Melvin. 1992. Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis). In The Birds of
North America, No. 17 (A. Poole, P. Stettenheim, and F. Gill, eds.). Philadelphia: The Academy of Natural Sciences; Washington, DC: The American Ornithologists' Union.
Lee, H.T., W.D. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig and S. McMurray. 1998.
Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
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Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 2012. Butternut (Juglans cinerea). http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/stdprodconsume/groups/lr/@mnr/@species/documents/document/stdprod_070895.pdf
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 2011. Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus).
Queen’s Printer for Ontario. http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/stdprodconsume/groups/lr/@mnr/@species/documents/document/stdprod_085029.pdf
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 2009. Whip-poor-will (Caprimulgus vociferus).
Queen’s Printer for Ontario. http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/stdprodconsume/groups/lr/@mnr/@species/documents/document/276687.pdf
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 2000. Significant Wildlife Habitat: Technical
Guide. The Queen’s Printer for Ontario. Ontario Nature. 2011. Ontario’s Reptile and Amphibian Atlas – Milksnake (Lampropeltis
triangulum). http://www.ontarionature.org/protect/species/herpetofaunal_atlas.php Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA). 2010. Jock River Subwatershed Report 2010.
http://204.101.207.53/IM/Documents/watershed_planning/Jock_River/Catchment_Data/Monahan_Drain/Monahan_Drain_Catchment_Features.pdf
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA). 2009. City Stream Watch 2009 Annual Report.
http://204.101.207.53/im/documents/aquatics/city_stream_watch/2009_CITY_STREAM_WATCH_ANNUAL_REPORT.pdf
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2013. Common Birds of Peel Region. Royal Ontario Museum.
http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/fieldguides.php?distribution=33&taxon=3&doc_type=fieldguide&page_no=2
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2010. Species at Risk: Chimney Swift. Royal Ontario Museum.
http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&lang=en&id=322 Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2010. Species at Risk: Snapping Turtle. Royal Ontario Museum.
http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&lang=en&id=334 Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2010. Species at Risk: Whip-poor-will. Royal Ontario Museum.
http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&lang=en&id=332 Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2008. Species at Risk: Blanding’s Turtle. Royal Ontario
Museum. http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&id=317
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Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2008. Species at Risk: Henslow’s Sparrow. Royal Ontario
Museum. http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&id=130 Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2008. Species at Risk: Least Bittern. Royal Ontario Museum.
http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&id=104 Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2008. Species at Risk: Milksnake. Royal Ontario Museum.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2008. Species at Risk: Least Bittern. Royal Ontario Museum. http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&id=104
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2006. Species at Risk: Black Tern. Royal Ontario Museum.
http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&id=115 Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2006. Species at Risk: Eastern Ribbonsnake. Royal Ontario
Museum. http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&id=295 Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). 2005. Species at Risk: Short-eared Owl. Royal Ontario
Museum. http://www.rom.on.ca/ontario/risk.php?doc_type=fact&id=119 Thompson, E. Personal communications. Ministry of Natural Resources – Kemptville District.
Postal Bag 2002, 10 Campus Drive, Kemptville, Ontario, K0G 1J0.
APPENDIX A: STUDY AREA PHOTOGRAPHS