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City Of Richmond Hill Project File Report

Twickenham Stormwater Management Facilities Rehabilitation

APPENDIX B

Natural Environment

TMIG PROJECT NUMBER 19179

74 Berkeley Street, Toronto, ON M5A 2W7 Tel: 647-795-8153 | www.pecg.ca

Technical Memorandum Date: May 21, 2020

Project #: 13001125

To: Steve Hollingworth, TMIG

From: Jen Paterson, Palmer

cc: Dirk Janas and Jason Cole, Palmer

Re: Natural Environmental Existing Conditions for Twickenham Pond Environmental Assessment, City of Richmond Hill

1. Introduction Palmer was retained by The Municipal Infrastructure Group (TMIG) to assess the natural environmental conditions to support the Schedule B Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for the rehabilitation of Twickenham Pond (Elgin West Pond – SWMF 16-4) and the Silver Pines Ponds (SWMF 16-2, 16-2 and 16-3), in the City of Richmond Hill. The study area encompasses the valleylands from the northwest inlet into SWMF 16-4, to the culvert crossing Elgin Mills Road West (the project study area – Figure 1).

The project study area is located within the Don River Watershed (Upper East Don Subwatershed), under the jurisdiction of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). The study area occurs within a designated Settlement Area of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP), within existing residential developments and contains valleylands, woodlands, plantations and riparian wetlands associated with an unnamed tributary of the Upper East Don River.

This Technical Memo is prepared as input to the EA process and associated documentation. This memo describes the background review, agency consultation and field investigations undertaken to support the characterization of existing natural environmental conditions through the project area. This information will be the basis for the identification of potential ecological impacts and to provide guidance on design and mitigation recommendations to support the development and evaluation of alternative solutions and as a foundation for the selection and assessment of a Preferred Solution.

The objectives of this study are to inventory and evaluate the existing natural heritage features and ecological functions within the project study area, including Ecological Land Classification (ELC) mapping, Species at Risk (SAR) habitat screening, aquatic habitat and fisheries assessment, evaluation of sensitive natural features, assessment of wildlife habitat and a general characterization of existing geological and hydrogeological conditions.

Twickenham Pond Natural Environmental Existing Conditions Memo_Palmer_Final

http:www.pecg.ca

Memorandum Page 2 | May 21, 2020 Natural Environmental Existing Conditions for Twickenham Pond Environmental Assessment, City of Richmond Hill

As part of this Technical Memo the following supporting Figures and Appendices have been provided:

Figure 1 – Project Area Location Figure 2 – Surficial Geology Figure 3 – Source Water Protection Figure 4 – Existing Environmental Conditions Appendix A: Photo Log – Vegetation Communities Appendix B: Plant Species List

2. Environmental Policy 2.1 Migratory Birds Convention Act

The Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA) and Migratory Birds Regulations (MBR) (2014) protect most species of migratory birds and their nests and eggs anywhere they are found in Canada. General prohibitions under the MBCA and MBR protect migratory birds, their nests and eggs and prohibit the deposition of harmful substances in waters / areas frequented by them. The MBR includes an additional prohibition against incidental take, which is the inadvertent harming or destruction of birds, nests or eggs.

Compliance with the MBCA and MBR is best achieved through due diligence, which identifies potential risk based on a site-specific analysis in consideration of the Avoidance Guidelines and Best Management Practices information on the Environment Canada website.

2.2 Endangered Species Act

Species designated as Threatened or Endangered by the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario (COSSARO), otherwise known as Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO), and their habitats (e.g. areas essential for breeding, rearing, feeding, hibernation and migration) are afforded legal protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) (Government of Ontario 2007).

The protection provisions for species and their habitat within the ESA apply only to those species listed as endangered or threated on the SARO list. Special Concern species may be afforded protection through policy instruments respecting significant wildlife habitat as defined by the Province or other relevant authority, or other protections contained in Official Plan (OP) policies.

For matters specific to Redside Dace (Clinostomus elongatus), Section 23(1).5 of ESA Regulation 242/08 provides exemptions for infrastructure projects that are subject to a Class Environmental Assessment process, provided a mitigation plan approved by the Ministry is created and implemented.

2.3 Provincial Policy Statement

The Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) provides direction to regional and local municipalities regarding planning policies for the protection and management of natural heritage features and resources (OMMAH,



2014). Section 2.1 of the PPS defines eight natural heritage feature (NHF) types and adjacent lands and provides planning policies for each. Of these NHF, development is not permitted in:

Significant Coastal Wetlands; Significant Wetlands in Ecoregions 5E, 6E and 7E; Fish Habitat, except in accordance with provincial and federal requirements; or Habitat of species designated as Endangered and Threatened, except in accordance with provincial

and federal requirements.

Additionally, unless it can be demonstrated through an Environmental Impact Study (EIS) that there will be no negative impacts on the natural features or their ecological functions, development and site alteration are also not permitted in:

Significant Wetlands in the Canadian Shield north of Ecoregions 5E, 6E and 7E; Significant Woodlands in Ecoregions 6E and 7E (excluding islands in Lake Huron and the St. Mary’s

River); Significant Valleylands in Ecoregions 6E and 7E (excluding islands in Lake Huron and the St. Mary’s

River); Significant Wildlife Habitat; Significant Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest; Other Coastal Wetlands in Ecoregions 5E, 6E and 7E; and Lands defined as Adjacent Lands to all the above natural heritage features.

Each of these natural heritage features is afforded varying levels of protection subject to guidelines, and in some cases, regulations. The NHF definitions are used in this report to guide the identification and protection of ecological elements in the project area.

The PPS states that, in addition to land use approvals under the Planning Act, infrastructure may also require approval subject to other legislation and regulations.

2.4 City of Richmond Hill Official Plan

The project study area is subject to the policies and designations of the January 23, 2018 City of Richmond Hill Official Plan (OP), which is partially approved by the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB). The City of Richmond Hill has developed a Greenway System that encompasses features and functions that are part of the larger Regional Greenlands System. OP Schedule A1 depicts the project study area within the Greenway System, represented in green (Map A below). Policies in the OP are intended to protect Natural Core Areas and, where possible, to enhance the size, diversity, health, connectivity and resiliency of the Greenway System.



Map A. City of Richmond Hill Official Plan Schedule A1 – Urban Structure

Additionally, the City of Richmond Hill OP Schedules depict the study area within the City’s built boundary, within the Settlement Area of the ORMCP Area (Schedule A3) and as containing designated Significant Woodlands (Schedule A4, Map B below).

Map B. City of Richmond Hill Official Plan Schedule A4 – Key Natural Heritage Features and Key Hydrological Features (Significant Woodlands shown in green)

2.5 TRCA Regulations and Policies

Relevant TRCA regulations and policies include the following:

Ontario Regulation 166/06 - Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses. Through this regulation, TRCA regulates activities in natural and hazardous areas (e.g. areas in and near rivers, streams, floodplains, wetlands, and slopes, and shorelines).

The Living City Policies (TRCA, 2014) and associated Planning and Development Procedural Manual (TRCA, 2008). These documents present TRCA’s planning and permit review practices and technical guidelines. Relevant policies will be discussed in applicable sections of this report.



The project area falls within regulated lands (Figure 1). The associated TRCA policies, regulations and permitting will therefore apply and approvals will be required from the agency.

3. Study Approach 3.1 Background Review and Agency Consultation

Palmer has initiated agency consultation and reviewed relevant background material to provide a focus to field investigations and ensure compliance with regulations and policy. Background review included the following:

Collection and review of relevant mapping and reports, including Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) make-a-map application for species occurrences and designated area mapping.

The TRCA was contacted for natural heritage and SAR information in the study area. TRCA flora and fauna records and mapping. City of Richmond Hill Amphibian Monitoring Report for SWMF 16-5 (August 6, 2019). Natural Heritage System Design Brief in support of the Elgin Mills Greenway EA (Savanta, June 2017).

3.2 Ecological Surveys

Palmer ecologists undertook scoped field investigations to inventory the flora within the project study area, to characterize aquatic and terrestrial habitat, assess physical terrain characteristics, and to provide an assessment of the ecological features and functions within the project area. The field survey was completed to verify and augment data provided by the TRCA. Aquatic and terrestrial field investigations were conducted on August 29, 2019. The daytime weather conditions were 17⁰C, 90% cloud cover, 13 km/h wind speed with no precipitation. Survey methods are described below.

3.2.1 Vegetation and Flora

Vegetation communities were mapped and described following the Ecological Land Classification (ELC) System for Southern Ontario (Lee et al. 1998). Vegetation community boundaries were delineated on field maps through the interpretation of recent aerial photographs and TRCA data and refined in the field. Information collected or verified during ELC surveys includes dominant species cover, community structure, as well as level of disturbance, presence of indicator species, and other notable features.

A botanical survey was completed by traversing the project area and recording species observed and supplements the TRCA inventory. Identified vascular plants were checked for their status at local, regional, and provincial levels. Local plant rarity status is based on TRCA species L-ranks (TRCA 2016). Provincial plant status was based on the Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, 2018) and the NHIC.

Searches for Butternut (Juglans cinerea), an Endangered SAR tree, were completed during the botanical survey.



3.2.2 Aquatic Habitat

An assessment of the existing aquatic habitat and riparian conditions were conducted on August 29, 2019. The assessment was carried out by assessing the existing conditions of the tributary of the Upper East Don River at four locations through the project study area (Figure 2), recording the following parameters:

Identification of in-stream barriers to fish passage; Channel morphology measurements (water depth, pool depth, stream width, bankfull width, stream

order, habitat structure, pools and riffles); Bank undercuts and instream cover; Point source impacts (e.g., outfalls, sources of pollution) and surrounding land uses; Baseflow, flow regime characteristics (e.g., flashy urban system); Water quality; Substrate type; Critical habitats (spawning, nursery or rearing grounds); Riparian cover and shading; Groundwater discharge and upwellings; and Other measurements that indicate the quality of the habitat such as entrenchment, erosion,

degradation.

3.2.3 Species at Risk

For the purposes of this report, Species at Risk include species listed as Endangered, Threatened or Special Concern under Ontario’s ESA. The protection provisions for species and their habitat within the ESA apply only to those species listed as endangered or threated on the Species At Risk in Ontario list (SARO). Special Concern species may be afforded protection through policy instruments respecting significant wildlife habitat as defined by the Province or other relevant authority, or other protections contained in Official Plan policies.

Prior to field work, existing SAR records were queried through the Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) database. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) SAR mapping depicts records of Redside Dace (Clinostomus elongatus), approximately 1 km downstream of the project study area. Watercourses upstream of Redside Dace habitat are generally regulated as contributing habitat for the species.

A brief discussion of the status, habitat requirements, and assessment of likely presence of SAR species on the subject property is provided in Section 3.6.

4. Existing Conditions 4.1 Site Description

The southern portion of the project area, extending from Canyon Hill Avenue south to Elgin Mills Road West is characterized by the three stormwater management facilities (SWMF 16-1, 16-2 and 16-3), the tributary of the Upper East Don River and its riparian corridor. An asphalt pedestrian trail occurs adjacent to lands occupied by SWMF 16-1, 16-2 and 16-3, see Figure 1.



The northern portion of the project area, from Canyon Hill Avenue north to the study area’s northern limit contains the Twickenham stormwater management facility (SWMF 16-4), located in Twickenham Park. There is an asphalt maintenance access road to the middle of the facility that also functions as a pedestrian trail. A tributary of the Upper East Don River occurs through this portion of the study area, through a large area of deciduous forest area that extends beyond the study area to the north. SWMF-14 is located downstream (outside of the study area) of the Elgin Mills Greenway stormwater management facility (SWMF 16-5) for which an environmental assessment was undertaken in 2016 and that was reconstructed in 2018.

4.2 Geological and Hydrogeological Conditions

4.2.1 Physiographic Region

The project site is situated on the South Slope physiographic region (Chapman and Putnam, 1984), which is the southern slope of the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM). The South Slope meets the ORM at an elevation of approximately 300 meters above the sea level (masl) and descends southwards towards Lake Ontario, to an elevation of 150 masl. This region is characterized by predominantly clay till soils, with some clay loam and loam. Numerous streams descend the South Slope and cut deep valleys in the till drumlins that are orientated up slope.

4.2.2 Surficial and Bedrock Geology

A review of available online surficial geology mapping was used to identify the overburden materials of the site (Figure 2). Overlying the site are clay to silt-textured till of the Halton Till deposit, which were derived from glaciolacustrine deposits or shale. Ice-contact stratified deposits from the Oak Ridges Moraine Aquifer Complex (ORMAC) are present at surface to the northwest of the study area and may underly the Halton Till. Bedrock geology mapping indicates that the site is underlain by the Blue Mountain Formation, comprised primarily of shale and minor limestone. The bedrock is expected at >100 m below ground within the study area.

4.2.3 Source Water Protection and Watershed

The project study area is located within the Don River Watershed (Upper East Don Subwatershed), under the jurisdiction of the TRCA. The study area occurs within a designated Settlement Area of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP), within an existing residential development and contains the valley and lowlands of the tributary of the Upper East Don River.

The site is encompassed within the Credit Valley – Toronto and Region – Central Lake Ontario (CTC) Source Protection Plan, which came into effect on December 31, 2015. The CTC Source Protection Plan identifies three main regulatory factors that are governed under the Clean Water Act relating to local hydrogeology to consider for site development: Significant Groundwater Recharge Areas (SGRAs), Highly Vulnerable Aquifers (HVAs), and Wellhead Protection Areas (WHPAs).

Based on available MECP Source Protection Information mapping, the proposed rehabilitation is not within a SGRA or WHPA. The west portion of the site is within an HVA as presented on Figure 3. An HVA



has a relatively fast path for water to travel from the ground surface to shallow aquifers. The faster the water is able to flow through the ground to an aquifer, the more vulnerable the area is to contamination. These aquifers typically occur in areas of coarse grained soils with a deeper groundwater table.

4.3 Vegetation and Flora

Vegetation community boundaries (provided by TRCA and refined by Palmer) are illustrated in Figure 4, with detailed descriptions based on field investigations provided below.

4.3.1 Vegetation Communities

Field investigations and background data review identified eight (8) different vegetation communities immediately adjacent to the Twickenham Pond EA project area (Figure 4). TRCA ELC mapping of the project area was used as the basis for mapping and refined using field data. The ELC descriptions of these vegetation communities are provided in Table 1 below. Where applicable, TRCA ELC modifiers have been retained to provide consistency between mapped units; however, polygons have been updated and refined using additional desktop air photo analysis and field surveys.

Table 1. Vegetation Communities identified in Study Area

Vegetation ELC Community Vegetation Community Description

MAM2-10 Forb Mineral Meadow This young, riverine marsh community (associated with SWMF 16-2 and 16-3) Marsh (Appendix A: Photo 1, 2) is characterized by a sparse canopy of maple (Acer sp) with Manitoba Maple

(Acer negundo) and ash (Fraxinus sp), providing less than 10% cover. The groundcover, providing greater than 60% cover is predominately Panicled Aster (Aster lanceolatus), Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea), Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), Narrow-leaved Cattail (Typha angustifolia), Broad-leaf Cattail (Typha latifolia), Spotted Jewel-weed (Impatiens capensis) and Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis).

MAS2-1A Broad-leaved Cattail Mineral Shallow Marsh (Appendix A: Photo 3)

This is a young, riverine marsh community, associated with SWMF16-1 in the southern portion of the study area (north of Elgin Mills), dominated by Narrow-leaved Cattail. The sparse canopy, providing less than 10% cover, is predominately Manitoba Maple. The dense ground layer is dominated by Narrow-leaved Cattail. No open water was observed during field investigations.

FOD5-3 Dry-Fresh Sugar Maple -Oak Deciduous Forest (Appendix A: Photo 4)

This is a large, mid-aged deciduous forest community on rolling topography through northern portion of the study area. The canopy of this community (providing greater than 80% cover) is predominately Sugar Maple, with Red Oak (Quercus rubra) and some Wild Black Cherry (Prunus serotina). Sugar Maple is dominant in the subcanopy, understorey and ground layers. An abundance of fallen logs and branches were observed. Soils analysis characterized soils in this community as moderately moist, well drained sandy loam.

FOD4 Dry-Fresh Deciduous Forest (Appendix A: Photo 5)

This young, tableland forest community is characterized by a dense canopy (providing greater than 60% cover) of Red Oak with Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides), Sugar Maple and American Basswood (Tilia americana). Quaking Aspen and Eastern Hop-hornbeam (Ostrya virginiana) are dominant species in the sub-canopy. The understorey is comprised of Buckthorn (Rhamnus



Vegetation ELC Community Vegetation Community Description

cathartica), Choke Cherry (Prunus virginiana) and Alternate-leaf Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia). Dominant species in the ground layer include Woodland Strawberry (Fragaria vesca) and Broad-leaved Goldenrod (Solidago flexicaulis).

CUW1-b Exotic Successional This small woodland community is located on the north side of Elgin Mills Road. Woodland (Appendix A: Photo 6) The canopy, providing 25-35% cover is dominated by Manitoba Maple.

Buckthorn and Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) are common species in the dense understorey. The groundcover is comprised of Buckthorn seedlings, Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) and Yellow Avens (Geum aleppicum).

CUT1-c Exotic Deciduous Thicket (Appendix A: Photo 7)

This young thicket community, associated with SWMF 16-1, is characterized by Manitoba Maple, Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) and Crack Willow (Salix fragilis) in the canopy, providing 10-25% cover. The understorey, providing greater than 60% cover is made up of Red osier Dogwood with Rambler Rose (Rosa multiflora) and Heart-leaved Willow (Salix eriocephala).

CUP1-A Restoration Deciduous This long linear community along SWMF 16-2 and 16-3 has a canopy of Silver Plantation (Appendix A: Photo 8) Maple (Acer saccharinum), Black Walnut (Juglans nigra), providing 35 – 60%

cover. The understorey is predominately Buckthorn. The dense groundcover (greater than 60% cover) is predominately Kentucky Blue Grass with Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis).

CUP2-A Restoration Mixed Plantation (Appendix A: Photo 9, 10)

This mixed plantation community surrounds SWMF 16-4. The canopy, providing 25-35% cover, is made up of Colorado Spruce (Picea pungens) and White Spruce (Picea glauca), with some Black Walnut. The understorey is comprised of Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina), Spreading Dogbane (Apocynum androsaemifolium), Tartarian Honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) and Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus). Canada Bluegrass (Poa compressa) is dominant in the ground layer, providing greater than 60% cover.

OAO1 Open Aquatic (Unvegetated) (Appendix A: Photo 11, Photo 12)

SWMF 16-4 is classified as Open Aquatic (unvegetated)

4.3.2 Flora

A total of 109 species of vascular plants was recorded by Palmer within the project area, 27 (or 25%) of which are known to be non-native to Ontario. The recorded presence of non-native species is indicative of a level of disturbance that can be expected within developed urban/residential areas. Additionally, an abundance of highly invasive species were observed in the project area, including Tartarian Honeysuckle (Lonicera tartarica), Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), and Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolaris).

Botanical inventory data provided by TRCA identifies three species ranked L3 recorded within the project study area. These species, White Spruce (Picea glauca), Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) and Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) are restricted in occurrence and/or requires specific-site conditions (TRCA 2017). An additional three L3 ranked species were recorded during field investigations and include Bulb-bearing Water-hemlock (Cicuta bulbifera), Meadow Horsetail (Equisetum pretense) and Rosy Twisted-stalk (Streptopus lanceolatus).

Twenty species of concern in the urban matrix (L4) were recorded in TRCA botanical data, within the project study area. These species are listed in Table 2 below and mapped on Figure 4. Species assigned an L4 rank are those that are widespread regionally but are vulnerable to long-term declines in urban areas.



The majority of plants have a provincial “S5” ranking, indicating that they are common within Ontario. No federal or provincial Species at Risk were observed. A complete list of plant species recorded is provided in Appendix B.

Table 2. TRCA L-ranked (L2-L4) Plant Species

Code Scientific Name Common Name TRCA Rank

ACESACI Acer saccharinum Silver Maple L4

BETPAPY Betula papyrifera Paper Birch L4

CARCORD Carya cordiformis Bitternut Hickory L4

CARDIPH Cardamine diphylla Broad-leaved Toothwort

L4

CARHYST Carex hystericina Porcupine sedge L4

CARTEEC Carex tenera var. echinodes Marsh Straw Sedge L4

CAUGIGA Caulophyllum giganteum Long-styled Blue Cohosh

L4

CICBULB Cicuta bulbifera Bulb-bearing Water-hemlock

L3

CAUTHAL Caulophyllum thalictroides Blue Cohosh L3

CORAMOM Cornus amomum ssp. obliqua

Silky Dogwood L4

EQUPRAT Equisetum pretense Meadow Horsetail L3

FAGGRAN Fagus grandifolia American Beech L4

MAICANA Maianthemum canadense Canada May-flower L4

PHYOPUL Physocarpus opulifolius Ninebark L3

PICGLAU Picea glauca White Spruce L3

PINSTRO Pinus strobus White Pine L4

POLACRO Polystichum acrostichoides Christmas Fern L4

POLPUBE Polygonatum pubescens Downy Solomon's Seal L4

POPGRAN Populus grandidentata Large-toothed Aspen L4

QUERUBR Quercus rubra Red Oak L4

SALAMYG Salix amygdaloides Peach-leaved Willow L4

STRROSE Streptopus lanceolatus Rosy Twisted-stalk L3

THEPALU Thelypteris palustris var. pubescens

Marsh Fern L4

TRIEREC Trillium erectum Red Trillium L4

TRIGRAN Trillium grandiflorum White Trillium L4

TYPLATI Typha latifolia Broad-leaved Cattail L4



4.4 Wildlife

Wildlife observations recorded by TRCA include one L3 species and three L4 species within the general project study area (Figure 4, Table 3). Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata) is an L3 species that is designated as a Regional Species of Concern, as it is considered at risk within the TRCA jurisdiction over the long term (TRCA 2017). The recorded L4 species, Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus), Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) and Eastern Wood-Pewee (Contopus virens), are identified as showing decline in urban areas (TRCA 2017). Eastern Wood-Pewee is designated as Special Concern on the SARO List (refer to Section 3.6).

Table 3. TRCA L-ranked Fauna Species

Code Scientific Name Common Name TRCA Rank

EACH Tamias striatus Eastern Chipmunk L4

EAWP Contopus virens Eastern Wood-pewee L4

MPTU Chrysemys picta marginata Midland Painted Turtle L3

REVI Vireo olivaceus Red-eyed Vireo L4

Given the urban nature of the surrounding area, wildlife habitat opportunities for mammals within the study area likely include common, generalist and urban-adapted species (e.g., urban species of birds, Raccoon [Procyon lotor], Skunk (Mephitis mephitis] and Grey Squirrel [Sciurus carolinensis]).

The watercourse corridor through the northern, forested portion of the study area may provide some movement opportunities for species such as White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and Coyote (Canis latrans) if present in the area and depending on surrounding habitat connectivity. At the immediate site level, habitat representation consists of the aquatic environment of the watercourse tributary, riparian zone, woodland cover and the aquatic and marsh areas and open water associated with the stormwater facilities.

Amphibian data and information from Richmond Hill’s 2014 Terrestrial Natural Area Inventory (collected by TRCA and data collected by Richmond Hill staff as part of the amphibian monitoring initiative) includes observations within the northern portion of the study area and in adjacent areas to the north. Species recorded include:

American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus) Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer crucifer) Gray Treefrog (Hyla versicolor) Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans)

Amphibian and reptile data collected in support of the Elgin Mills Stormwater Project (Savanta, 2017), located north of the current project study area, additionally identified:

American Bullfrog (Lithobates clamitans) Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata)



4.5 Aquatic Habitat

An unnamed tributary of the Upper East Don River runs through the project study area. According to the Don River Watershed Plan (2009), this watercourse within the study area occurs within Fish Management Zone (FMZ) 1 and supports a coldwater fish community (TRCA, 2009). FMZ 1 is managed for target species including Brassy Minnow, American Brook Lamprey, Redside Dace, Mottled Sculpin and Common Shiner in the near term and Brook Trout in the long term. As part of the Elgin Mills Stormwater Project, MNRF identified this unnamed tributary as contributing habitat to an occupied reach for Redside Dace. Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Species at Risk mapping identifies Redside Dace habitat as occurring within the unnamed tributary, approximately 1.25 km downstream of Elgin Mills Road.

Aquatic habitat was assessed at four locations for general representation though the project study area. These locations are mapped on Figure 4 and are described from north to south through the study area, below.

4.5.1 Watercourse Survey Location #1

At the time of the aquatic assessment (late August), much of the watercourse through Watercourse Survey Location #1 was dry, to saturated with some pooling (Figure 4, Photo 13). The channel in this area exhibits an irregular meandering pattern. Some bank erosion was noted at this location. Bankfull channel dimensions are uniform through this area, with an average width of 1.5 m and depth of 0.2 m. Riparian vegetation extends approximately 0.8 – 1.6 m on both sides of the channel, dominated by Spotted Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis). The deciduous forest canopy provides 90% shade cover. Approximately 5% cover is afforded by branches and leaf litter. Bed material consists of medium to course sand with some fines. Moving southeast along the watercourse towards SWMF 16-4, higher stream flows were observed through channel banks averaging 1-2 m high with areas of extensive erosion.



Photo 13. Tributary of the Upper East Don through Deciduous Forest (Watercourse Survey Location #1)

4.5.2 SWMF Pond 16-4

SWMF 16-4 (Figure 4, Photo 14) is characterized as a large and open pond with well vegetated edges, dominated by herbaceous species and some boulders along its perimeter. Minimal canopy shade cover (~2%) is provided. No aquatic vegetation was observed within the pond. This pond provides an abundance of wildlife habitat to recorded species of ducks, snakes, small mammals, turtles, frogs and fish (Incidental wildlife observations are recorded in Section 3.7).



Photo 14. SWMF Pond 16-4


The watercourse channel at this location (south side of Canyon Hill Avenue, Figure 4), exhibits a sinuous pattern through a thick cover of Rice Cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides) (Photo 15). The channel is 1 m wide with some standing water. Shade cover of 50 – 60% is provided by the tree canopy, with 25% herbaceous cover. Riparian herbaceous vegetation dominated by grasses with some Spotted Jewelweed extending 3 m on either side of the stream channel. No evidence of bank erosion was noted in this area.

Photo 15. Watercourse Survey Location #2




Watercourse Survey Location #3 is located north of Kirkland Court, through a meadow marsh community (Figure 4). The channel through this location is fully vegetated with Rice Cutgrass and cattail species (Photo 16). The averaged bankfull width and depth of the channel is 1.5 m and 0.2 m, respectively. Minor bank undercutting was observed. Greater than 60% cover is afforded by herbaceous cover, with 10% canopy cover from the riparian shrub layer.

Photo 16. Vegetated channel through Watercourse Survey Location #3

4.6 Species at Risk

Based NHIC review, the results of field surveys and habitat screening, and our professional experience, the following SAR have been assessed as having potential suitable habitat within the project area (Table 4).

Of the species listed below that have potential suitable habitat in the general project area, none of the listed species were recorded during the field surveys and opportunistic (incidental) observations. In addition, the DFO SAR mapping was searched which depicted no records of Redside Dace within the project study area. A portion of this Tributary of the East Don River is regulated Redside Dace habitat, approximately 1 km downstream and outside of the study area. The watercourse through the study area is considered contributing habitat to an occupied reach for Redside Dace.



Table 4. SAR Habitat Screening for MNRF SAR Records

Species Habitat Requirement Overview Habitat Suitability

SARO Status

Redside Dace (Clinostomus elongatus)

Redside dace are typically found in stream segments that flow through open meadows, pasture or shrub overstory as opposed to closed canopy forest in Ontario.

Contributing Habitat present – tributary of Upper

East Don

Endangered

Eastern Wood Pewee (Contopus virens)

The Eastern Wood-pewee is mostly associated with the mid-canopy layer of forest clearings and edges of deciduous and mixed forests. It is most abundant in forest stands of intermediate age and in mature stands with little understorey vegetation.

Present – forested areas (FOD5-3)

(TRCA record)

Special Concern

Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus)

In the summer, roosts in trees, barns, attics and abandoned buildings to raise their young. In the winter, they hibernate in abandoned mines or caves.

Potential – forested areas

(FOD5-3)

Endangered

Northern Myotis (Myotis septentrionalis)

Roosts under loose bark and cavities in trees in boreal forests. In the winter, the hibernate in abandoned caves or mines (MNRF, 2018h).

Potential – forested area

(FOD5-3)

Endangered

Tricolored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus)

In the summer, forms day roosts in a range of habitats including older forest and sometimes barns. These bats overwinter in caves.


(FOD5-3)

Endangered

Eastern Small-footed Myotis (Myotis leibii)

Roosts in a variety of habitats including caves, hollow trees, buildings, and bridges in the summer. In the winter, they hibernate in abandoned caves or mines.


(FOD5-3)

Endangered

4.7 Incidental Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Although the project area is bounded by a residential development, the watercourse corridor may provide some movement opportunities for species such as White-tailed Deer and Coyote if present in the area. At the immediate site level, potential wildlife habitats consist of deciduous forest, aquatic environment of the watercourse and stormwater management ponds, riparian zones and patches of regenerating and planted woody vegetation

Incidental species recorded during field investigations by Palmer include Mallard ducks and ducklings (Anas platyrhynchos), Garter Snake (Thamnophis), Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta), Green Frog (Rana clamitans). Racoon (Procyon lotor) tracks were observed near the inlet of SWMF 16-4.

Incidental observations of a Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus), near SWMF 16-1 and Northern saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus) were reported by a local resident. A Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) was also reported by a local resident, in SWMF 16-4. Great Blue Heron is an L3 species that is designated as a Regional Species of Concern, as it is considered at risk within the TRCA jurisdiction over the long term (TRCA 2017).

A Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) is a resident of the Twickenham (Elgin West Pond) stormwater management facility from approximately April to November. The swan has had its wings clipped and remains within the



general vicinity of this facility. The swan was not observed during field investigations and is an introduced, non-native species.

5. Assessment of Significance The Official Plan of the City of Richmond Hill identifies the project study area as Natural Core (OP Schedule A2), as part of the Greenway System (OP Schedule A1) and as containing Significant Woodlands (OP Schedule A4).

In the absence of existing designations, guidance for identifying and evaluating natural features and determining constraints is provided by OP policies, the Natural Heritage Reference Manual (OMNR 2010), and TRCA regulations and policy. A summary and evaluation of the potential significance, functions and sensitivity of existing features on site is provided below.

Designated Natural Areas No Provincially Significant Wetlands, Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest, Environmentally Significant/Sensitive Areas occur in the project study area or within 120 m of its limits.

Wetlands Based on field investigations and the ELC mapping shown in Figure 4, two small wetland communities were identified (MAM2-10 and MAS2-1A), associated with SWMF 16-3 and SWMF 16-1, respectively.

Woodland Based on field investigations, woodland and forest communities were identified within project study area. These communities are mapped on Figure 4 and include the large Dry-Fresh Sugar Maple – Oak Deciduous Forest (FOD5-3), through the northern portion of the study area, a Dry-Fresh Deciduous Forest community (FOD4), south of Canyon Hill Avenue and a small Exotic Successional Woodland (CUW1-b), just north of Elgin Mills Road.

The FOD5-3 community (Figure 4) within and extending from the northern portion of the study area is considered significant woodland and a component of the Natural Heritage System. This community meets at least one of the criterion for designation as significant, as defined by regional and City Official Plans and the Natural Heritage Reference Manual. This community is depicted on Richmond Hill OP Schedule A4 as Significant Woodland.

Species at Risk The MNRF has identified the tributary of the Upper East Don River as contributing habitat for Redside Dace. Design alternatives and solutions should consider the sensitivities and habitat preferences of this species.

Eastern Wood-pewee (Special Concern) has been recorded in the deciduous forest unit (FOD5-3) by TRCA. Potential SAR bat habitat was identified in the FOD5-3, due to the presence of mature trees with potential cavities present.



Significant Wildlife Habitat Significant Wildlife Habitat (SWH) is considered a significant feature in Provincial, Regional, and Municipal (City of Richmond Hill) policies. Significant Wildlife Habitat (SWH) is defined by the MNRF in the Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (OMNR 2000) and includes the following broad categories:

seasonal concentration areas; rare vegetation communities or specialised habitats for wildlife; habitats of species of conservation concern, excluding the habitats of endangered and

threatened species; and animal movement corridors.

Criteria for the identification of these features are also provided in the Significant Wildlife Habitat Criteria Schedules for Ecoregion 6E (MNRF 2015). These criteria were used to screen wildlife habitat within the study area for potentially significant wildlife habitat.

Potential for SWH occurs within the large deciduous forest community (ELC Community: FOD5-3) and within SWMF 16-4, with potential amphibian movement corridors associated with the small, linear stormwater facilities (SWMF 16-1, 16-2, 16-3).

Some species of conservation concern have been confirmed through field surveys results described in Sections 3.0 when considering Special Concern species (e.g., Eastern Wood-pewee). Within the study area, habitat opportunities consist of the riparian zone, stormwater management ponds, and deciduous woodland. The potential to encounter rare vegetation communities within the project study area is low given the disturbed habitat of the existing SWM facilities and surrounding urban environment. None of the ELC communities that have been identified are considered rare.

Based on an assessment of the presence of ELC Ecosites and Habitat Criteria, a screening for the following candidate SWH have been identified as having potential to occur within the general study area:

Seasonal Concentration Areas Bat Maternity Colonies (ELC Community: FOD5-3)

Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Amphibian Breeding Habitat (Wetlands) (SWMF 16-4)

Habitat of Species of Conservation Concern Special Concern and Rare Wildlife Species (Eastern Wood-pewee)

Animal Movement Corridors Amphibian Movement Corridors (SWMF 16-1, 16-2, 16-3, 16-4)



6. Conclusion The findings of this Existing Environmental Conditions study are the result of background review, agency consultation, ecological field surveys, and an analysis of data using current scientific understanding of the ecology of the area and natural heritage policy requirements. This information is provided as input into the EA documentation and subsequent assessment and evaluation phases.

Prepared By:

Jennifer Paterson, M.Sc. Ecologist

Reviewed By:

Dirk Janas, B.Sc. Principal, Ecologist

Approved By:

Jason Cole, M.Sc., P.Geo Principal

References

Chapman, L.J. and D.F Putnam. 1984. The Physiography of Southern Ontario - Third Edition. Ontario Geological Survey, Special Volume 2.

City of Richmond Hill. 2010. Accessed on July 22, 2019. URL: https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/find-or-learn-about/Official-Plan.aspx

Government of Canada. 2014. Migratory Birds Regulations.


https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/find-or-learn


Government of Ontario. 2007. Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Government of Ontario. 2013. O. Reg. 166/06: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority: Regulation of Development, Interference with Wetlands and Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses. Retrieved from https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/060166

Department of Fisheries and Oceans. 2019. Retrieved from http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/species-especes/sara-lep/map-carte/index-eng.html. Accessed on July 22, 2019

Lee, H.T, W.D. Bakowsky, J.L. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig, and S. McMurray, 1998: Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation and its Application. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Southcentral Region, Science Development and Transfer Branch. Technical Manual ELC-005.

Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). 2015: Significant Wildlife Habitat Criteria Schedules For Ecoregion 6E.

Natural Heritage Information Centre. 2019: Make a Map: Natural Heritage Areas (Online mapping and species database application). Ministry of Natural Resources. Available: http://www.gisapplication.lrc.gov.on.ca/mamnh/Index.html?site=MNR_NHLUPS_NaturalHeritage &viewer=NaturalHeritage&locale=en-US. Accessed on August 22, 2019

Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). 2014: Provincial Policy Statement.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 2010: Natural Heritage Reference Manual for Natural Heritage Policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, 2005. Second Edition. Toronto: Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 248pp.

Richmond Hill. 2019. SWMF 16-5 – Amphibian Monitoring Report

Savanta. 2017. Ecological Input – Preferred Elgin Mills Stormwater Project

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). 2008. Planning & Development Procedural Manual. Retrieved from https://trca.ca/app/uploads/2016/02/Procedural_Manual_January_2008.pdf

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). 2009: Don River Watershed Plan. Available online: http://www.trca.on.ca/dotAsset/104197.pdf

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). 2014. Flora Ranks and Scores.

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). 2014. The Living City Policies. Retrieved from https://trca.ca/planning-permits/living-city-policies/

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). 2017: Scoring and Ranking TRCA’s Vegetation Communities, Flora and Fauna Species. March 2017.


https://trca.ca/planning-permits/living-city-policieshttp://www.trca.on.ca/dotAsset/104197.pdfhttps://trca.ca/app/uploads/2016/02/Procedural_Manual_January_2008.pdfhttp://www.gisapplication.lrc.gov.on.ca/mamnh/Index.html?site=MNR_NHLUPS_NaturalHeritagehttp://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/specieshttps://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/060166

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Study Area Storm Pond 0 10 20 40 60 80 Z (Approximate) 1:3000 Watercourse TRCA Regulation Storm Culvert Limit Property Parcel

NOTES: Imagery (2018) provided by The Regional Municipailty of York.

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METRE SCALE NORTHLEGEND: Study Area 5d: Halton Till: Glaciolacustrine-derived 0 10 20 40 60 80 Z (Approximate) silty to clayey till 1:3000 Storm Pond 6: Ice-contact stratified deposits:

Sep 16, 2019 DATE: DRAWN: BE CHECKED: JP TITLE: Surficial Geology PREPARED BY:

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glaciofluvial sand Storm Culvert 20: Organic deposits: peat, muck, marl Watercourse NOTES1. Imagery (2018) provided by The Regional Municipailty of York. 2. Surficial Geology provided by Ontario Geological Survey 2010. Surficial geology of Southern Ontario; Ontario Geological Survey, Miscellaneous Release--Data 128-REV 1

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PRINT SCALE: PRINT SIZE: 11 x 17 " PROJECT: Twickenham Pond EA DATUM: NAD 1983 PROJECTION: UTM Zone 17

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Highly Vulnerable Aquifer 1:3000 Storm Pond Storm Culvert Watercourse

NOTESImagery (2018) provided by The Regional Municipailty of York.

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PINSTRO

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Imagery (2018) provided by The Regional Municipailty of York. Flora, fauna, ELC (adjusted) provided by TRCA. NOTES:

Study Area (Approximate) TRCA Reg. Limit ELC Community Wetlands Forest

Fauna Flora Watercourse Survey Storm Pond

Storm Culvert Watercourse

CODE Common Name ACERUBR red maple ACESACI silver maple ACTPACH white baneberry ANECYLI long-fruited thimbleweed AQUCANA wild columbine BETALLE yellow birch BETPAPY paper birch CARCORD bitternut hickory CARDIPH broad-leaved toothwort CARHYST porcupine sedge CARTEEC marsh straw sedge CAUGIGA long-styled blue cohosh CAUTHAL blue cohosh CICBULB bulblet-bearing water-hemlock CORAMOM silky dogwood DIELONI bush honeysuckle FAGGRAN American beech GYMDRYO oak fern MAICANA Canada May-flower MENCANA moonseed PHYOPUL ninebark PICGLAU white spruce PINRESI red pine PINSTRO white pine POLACRO Christmas fern POLPUBE downy Solomon's seal POPGRAN large-toothed aspen PYRELLI shinleaf QUERUBR red oak SALAMYG peach-leaved willow STRROSE rose twisted-stalk THEPALU marsh fern TRIEREC red trillium TRIGRAN white trillium TSUCANA eastern hemlock TYPLATI broad-leaved cattail

FLORA

CODEAMRE Common NameAmerican redstart AMTO American toad EACH eastern chipmunk EACO eastern cottontail EAWP eastern wood-pewee GCFL great crested flycatcher GRCA grey catbird GRFR green frog MPTU midland painted turtle PIWA pine warbler RBSA eastern red-backed salamander REVI red-eyed vireo TGTF grey treefrog WBNU white-breasted nuthatch

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: : CLIENT: The Municipal Infrastructure Group

PRINT SCALE: PRINT SIZE: 11 x 17 " PROJECT: Twickenham Pond EA DATUM: NAD 1983 PROJECTION: UTM Zone 17

Sep 16, 2019 DATE: DRAWN: BE CHECKED: JP TITLE: Existing Environmental Conditions

PREPARED BY:

FIGURE NO. 4

REVISION: PROJECT NO. 1301125 1


Appendix A

Photo Log


Appendix A ‐ Photo Log: Vegetation Communities

Photo 1 and Photo 2: MAM2‐10 Community (SWMF 16‐3 and SWMF 16‐2)

Photo 3: MAS2‐1 Community (SWMF 16‐1)

Photo 4: Dry ‐Fresh Sugar Maple Oak Decidous Forest (FOD5‐3)

Photo 5: Deciduous Forest Community (FOD4) South of Canyon Hill Avenue

Photo 6: Cultural Woodland Community (CUW1‐b), north of Elgin Mills Road

Photo 7: Deciduous Thicket Community (CUT1‐c)

Photo 8: Cultural Plantation Community (CUP1‐A), along SWMF 16‐2 and SWMF 16‐3

Photo 9 and Photo 10: Cultural Plantation Community at SWMF 16‐4 (CUP2‐A)

Photo 11: SWMF‐14 (OAO1)

Photo 12: SWMF‐14 (OAO1)


Appendix B

Plant Species List


ELC Community

ScientificName CommonName S RANK

TRCA RANK

MAM2-10

MAS2-1A

FOD5-3 FOD4

CUW1-b

CUT1-c

CUP1-A

CUP 2-A

Acer campestre Hedge Maple SE1 L+ X Acer negundo Manitoba Maple S5 L+? X X X X X X X Acer platanoides Norway Maple SE5 L+ X X Acer saccharinum Silver Maple S5 L4 X X Acer saccharum var. saccharum Sugar Maple S5 L5 X X X Achillea millefolium var. borealis Yarrow SU X Actaea pachypoda White Baneberry S5 L4 X Actaea rubra Red Baneberry S5 L5 X Alliaria petiolata Garlic Mustard SE5 L+ X X X X Anemone virginiana var. cylindroidea Thimbleweed SU X Apocynum androsaemifolium ssp. and Spreading Dogbane S5 L4 X Arctium sp Burdock Species X Arctium minus Lesser Burdock SE5 L+ X X Arisaema triphyllum ssp. triphyllum Jack-in-the-pulpit S5 L5 X Asclepias syriaca Common Milkweed S5 L5 X Symphyotrichum lanceolatum var. hes Panicled Aster S5 X X Eurybia macrophylla Large-leaved Aster S5 L4 X Symphyotrichum novae-angliae New England Aster S5 L5 X X Betula papyrifera Paper Birch S5 L4 X Bidens frondosa Devil's Beggar's Ticks S5 L5 X X Carex bebbii Bebb's Sedge S5 L5 X Carya cordiformis Bitternut Hickory S5 L4 X Carex pensylvanica Pennsylvania Sedge S5 L4 X Carex stipata Stalk-grain Sedge S5 L5 X Carex vulpinoidea Fox Sedge S5 L5 Caulophyllum giganteum Blue Cohosh S5 L4 X Celtis occidentalis Common Hackberry S4 L+ X Cicuta bulbifera Bulb-bearing Water-hemlocS5 L3 X Cichorium intybus Chicory SE5 L+ X Cirsium arvense Crepping Thistle SE5 L+ X Circaea lutetiana ssp. canadensis Enchanter's Nightshade S5 L5 X X X X Cirsium vulgare Bull Thistle SE5 L+ X X Conyza canadensis Fleabane S5 L5 X

ELC Community


TRCA RANK

MAM2-10

MAS2-1A

FOD5-3 FOD4

CUW1-b

CUT1-c

CUP1-A

CUP 2-A

Cornus alternifolia Alternate-leaf Dogwood S5 L5 X X Cornus amomum Silky Dogwood S5 L3 X Cornus sericea ssp. sericea Red-osier Dogwood S5 L5 X X X X X X Daucus carota Queen Anne's Lace SE5 L+ X X X Dipsacus fullonum ssp. sylvestris Common Teasel SE5 L+ X X X Elaeagnus angustifolia Russian Olive SE3 L+ X X Equisetum pratense Meadow Horsetail S5 L3 X X Erigeron philadelphicus var. philadelphPhiladelphia Fleabane S5 L5 X Euthamia graminifolia Grass-leaved Goldenrod S5 L5 X Fraxinus americana White Ash S5 L5 X X X X Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green Ash S5 L5 X X Fragaria vesca ssp. americana Woodland Strawberry S5 L5 X Geum aleppicum Yellow Avens S5 L5 X X X X X X Hypericum perforatum St. John's-wort SE5 L+ X Impatiens capensis Spotted Jewel-weed S5 L5 X X X X X X Juglans nigra Black Walnut S4 L5 X X X X Lactuca canadensis Canada Lettuce S5 L4 X Leersia oryzoides Rice Cutgrass S5 L5 X Lonicera tatarica Tartarian Honeysuckle SE5 L+ X X Lycopus americanus American Bugleweed S5 L4 X Lythrum salicaria Purple Loosestrife SE5 L+ X X X X Maianthemum canadense Wild-lily-of-the-valley S5 L4 X Maianthemum racemosum ssp. racemFalse Solomon's Seal S5 L5 X Melilotus alba White Sweet Clover SE5 L+ X Morus alba White Mulberry SE5 L+ X Oenothera biennis Common Evening-primroseS5 L5 X Ostrya virginiana Eastern Hop-hornbeam S5 L5 X X Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia Creeper S4? L4 X X X X X Phalaris arundinacea Reed Canary Grass S5 L+? X X Picea abies Norway Spruce SE3 L+ X Picea glauca White Spruce S5 L3 X X Picea pungens Colorado Spruce SE1 L+ X Pinus strobus Eastern White Pine S5 L4 X

ELC Community


TRCA RANK

MAM2-10

MAS2-1A

FOD5-3 FOD4

CUW1-b

CUT1-c

CUP1-A

CUP 2-A

Plantago major Nipple-seed Plantain SE5 L+ X Poa compressa Canada Bluegrass S5 L+ X Poa pratensis ssp. pratensis Kentucky Bluegrass S5 L+ X X Podophyllum peltatum May Apple S5 L5 X Polygonum sp Smartweed Species X Polystichum acrostichoides Christmas Fern S5 L3 X Polygonatum biflorum Giant Solomon's Seal S4 X Populus tremuloides Quaking Aspen S5 L5 X X Prunus serotina Wild Black Cherry S5 L5 X Prunus virginiana var. virginiana Choke Cherry S5 L5 X X X Quercus rubra Northern Red Oak S5 L4 X X Rhamnus cathartica Buckthorn SE5 L+ X X X X X X Rhus aromatica Fragrant Sumac S5 L+ X Rhus hirta Staghorn Sumac S5 L5 X X X Ribes sp Currant Species X Rosa multiflora Rambler Rose SE4 L+ X Rubus idaeus ssp. idaeus Red Raspberry SE1 X Rubus occidentalis Black Raspberry S5 L5 X Rudbeckia laciniata Tall Coneflower S5 L4 X Rumex crispus Curly Dock SE5 L+ X X X Salix eriocephala Heart-leaved Willow S5 L5 X X X Salix exigua Sandbar Willow S5 L5 X Salix fragilis Crack Willow SE5 L+ X X X Sambucus racemosa var. racemosa Red-berried Elder S5 L5 X X Sanguinaria canadensis Bloodroot S5 L5 X Solidago sp Goldenrod Species X Solidago canadensis var. scabra Tall Goldenrod S5 L5 X Solidago canadensis Canada Goldenrod S5 L5 X X X X X Solidago flexicaulis Broad-leaved Goldenrod S5 L5 X Sonchus arvensis ssp. arvensis Field Sowthistle SE5 L+ X Streptopus lanceolatus var. roseus Rosy Twisted-stalk S5 L3 X Tilia americana American Basswood S5 L5 X X Trillium sp Trillium Species X

ELC Community


TRCA RANK

MAM2-10

MAS2-1A

FOD5-3 FOD4

CUW1-b

CUT1-c

CUP1-A

CUP 2-A

Typha angustifolia Narrow-leaved Cattail S5 L+ X X Typha latifolia Broad-leaf Cattail S5 L4 X X X X Urtica dioica ssp. dioica Stinging Nettle SE2 L+ X Verbascum thapsus Common Mullein SE5 L+ X Viburnum lentago Nannyberry S5 L5 X Vicia cracca Tufted Vetch SE5 L+ X Viola sp Violet Species X Vitis riparia Riverbank Grape S5 L5 X X

Appendix B - Natural EnvironmentPalmer Technical Memorandum1. Introduction2. Environmental Policy2.1 Migratory Birds Convention Act2.2 Endangered Species Act2.3 Provincial Policy Statement2.4 City of Richmond Hill Official Plan2.5 TRCA Regulations and Policies

3. Study Approach3.1 Background Review and Agency Consultation3.2 Ecological Surveys3.2.1 Vegetation and Flora3.2.2 Aquatic Habitat3.2.3 Species at Risk

4. Existing Conditions4.1 Site Description4.2 Geological and Hydrogeological Conditions4.2.1 Physiographic Region4.2.2 Surficial and Bedrock Geology4.2.3 Source Water Protection and Watershed

4.3 Vegetation and Flora4.3.1 Vegetation Communities4.3.2 Flora

4.4 Wildlife4.5 Aquatic Habitat4.5.1 Watercourse Survey Location #14.5.2 SWMF Pond 16-44.5.3 Watercourse Survey Location #24.5.4 Watercourse Survey Location #3

4.6 Species at Risk4.7 Incidental Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat

5. Assessment of Significance6. ConclusionAppendix A Photo LogAppendix BPlant Species List

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