Body: Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee Type: Agenda Meeting: Committee Date: March 21, 2024 Collection: Council Agendas Municipality: South Frontenac
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Township of South Frontenac Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
TIME: DATE: PLACE:
6:00 PM, Thursday, March 21, 2024 Council Chambers/Virtual Via Zoom .
Call to Order
a)
Resolution
Approval of the Agenda
a)
Resolution
Election of Officers
a)
Chairperson Nominations & Election
b)
Vice-Chairperson Nominations & Election
Conformation of Minutes
a)
Recommendation
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest
Delegations
Briefings
Business
a)
Lake Forum Subcommittee Update - members of the committee to provide an update
b)
Update on Cataraqui Region Invasive Phragmites Management Area Workshop
6 - 68
c)
Lake Ecosystem Grant Policy Update
69 - 75
What is Happening on Our Lakes (Round Table Discussion)
Motions
Notices of Motion
Correspondence
Questions of Clarity (from the public on outcome of agenda items)
Date of Next Meeting
a)
June 27, 2024 @ 6:00 p.m.
Adjournment
a)
Resolution
3-5
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www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – A Progressive Rural Leader.
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Minutes of Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee December, 7, 2023
Township of South Frontenac Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes Meeting # 04 Time:6:00 p.m. Location: Council Chambers / Virtual via Zoom Present: Janet Brown, Justin Connidis, Holly Evans (virtually), Terry Maur, Councillor Steve Pegrum, Ellie Prepas, Alan Revill, Councillor Randy Ruttan & Tim Upton (virtually), Mayor Vandewal Absent: Joseph Buckley, Gerrit Buitenhuis Staff: Christine Woods, Senior Planner, Michelle Hannah - Deputy Clerk
Call to Order
Approval of the Agenda
a)
Resolution Resolution No. 02 Moved by Terry Maur Seconded by Steve Pegrum That the agenda be amended to include a copy of the September 28, 2023 Committee meeting minutes, and approved as amended. Carried
Conformation of Minutes
a)
Resolution Resolution No. 03 Moved by Janet Brown Seconded by Terry Maur That the minutes of the September 28, 2023, meeting be approved. Carried
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest
a) There were none. 5.
Delegations
a) There were none. 6.
Briefings
a) There were none. 7.
Business
a)
Annual Report on Projects
Page 3 of 75
Minutes of Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee December, 7, 2023 Christine Woods provided an overview of the Grant Application awarded. b)
Lake Ecosystem Grant Policy Update Christine Provided an overview of the Grant Policy update report. Mayor Vandewal inquired if there is a limit on number of applications per year. Christine Woods advised that the policy does not speak to how many times an organization can apply to receive the grant. Some groups have applied more than once, but staff check to make sure their first project is completed before moving on to another. She also noted that new users would be considered first. Christine Woods sought a discussion on changes to the composition of the sub committee and the policy. Ellie Prepas shared that although Queens University is not a not for profit, they do important work, and an amendment may ensure that they are still eligible. Mayor Vandewal noted that as long as the research and work is not repetitive, he does not see a problem with Queens University students seeking grant money. Ellie Prepas shared that it is important to have qualified individuals involved with the research and work. She also noted that there are also other resources like Conservation Authorities and Watersheds Canada that are important to have involved. Christine Woods offered a solution of a broad definition other than nonprofit. Justin Connidis shared that it may be beneficial to add a category that a local group partners with an expert group.
c)
Forming a Lake Forum Subcommittee to get started on the 2024 forum Alane Revill noted that the committee is re-formed annually. Alan Revill, Ellie Prepas, Terry Mauer and Janet Brown volunteered to be members on the subcommittee for the 2024 Lake Ecosystem Forum. Resolution No. 04 Moved by Justin Connidis Seconded by Councillor Pegrum That Alan Revill, Ellie Prepas, Terry Mauer and Janet Brown are the committee members that form the subcommittee for the 2024 Lake Ecosystem Forum and will provide an update of the proposal for the logistics at the March, 2024 Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee Meeting. Carried
Motions
a) There were none. 9.
Notices of Motion
a) There were none.
Page 4 of 75
Minutes of Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee December, 7, 2023 10.
Correspondence
a) There was none. 11.
Questions of Clarity (from the public on outcome of agenda items)
a) There were none. 12.
Date of Next Meeting
a)
Date of the next Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee will be March 21, 2023 (to not interfere with the Easter weekend)
Adjournment
a)
Resolution Resolution No. 05 Moved by Councillor Pegrum Seconded by Justin Connidis That the December 7, 2023, meeting be adjourned at 6:36 p.m. Carried
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Cataraqui Region Invasive Phragmites Management Area Cataraqui Region Phragmites Management Area Workshop Notes Date: January 15, 2024 Time: 9:45 AM to 10:00 AM (arrival and information form) 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (workshop) Place: Little Cataraqui Creek Outdoor Centre just north of Highway 401 (Exit 617)
- Welcome and Introductions – Holly Evans, Cataraqui Conservation
Holly welcome everyone, provided some information about the meeting facility and the day.
It was noted that the focus of the day was to provide information about this invasive species, describe the opportunity to establish a Phragmites Management Area and to build knowledge about local concerns, efforts, and priorities.
It was noted this workshop didn’t fit some schedules so that there will be additional organizations represented at the next one. If anyone identifies a group that should be invited (e.g., the Thousand Islands Watershed Land Trust), please let Holly know (hevans@crca.ca).
An organizational datasheet was circulated with the workshop registration email and provided at the workshop. Participants were encouraged to provide details that will help to know more about invasive Phragmites efforts and concerns in the region. Attachment 1 to these notes is a summary of the information received to date.
Participants were encouraged to bring forward topics of interest at the open discussion after lunch and to talk with anyone in the room to learn from each other and start to develop connections that can lead to Phragmites projects and resource sharing.
A roundtable of introductions was initiated by Colin Cassin following the, “All About Phragmites and a Phragmites Management Area” presentation where each workshop participant provided their name, organization, and a brief overview of their interest and / or involvement with invasive Phragmites. Attachment 2 to these notes includes a summary of this information.
- All About Phragmites and a Phragmites Management Area – Holly Evans, Cataraqui Conservation
PowerPoint slides were presented – see Attachment 3
Page 6 of 75
-
Page 2 of 14 Invasive Phragmites or Common Reed (Phragmites australis) is an invasive grass that has spread in Ontario for decades. In the Cataraqui Region it is moving from roadsides into more sensitive areas like wetlands, lakeshore and along streams.
It is common along highways like the 401 and is a very tall (up to 5 meters) plant with a full seedhead that becomes fluffy in the fall when the seeds are matured and dispersing.
There is a native Phragmites grass (Phragmites australis americanus) which is easier to differentiate from the invasive species when the plants are mature. The following image points out the main differences. The following table is from this website: https://www.greatlakesphragmites.net/phragbasics/native-vs-nonnative/
Consider watching this Webinar: https://youtu.be/RQ7mlow3lDg. Janice Gilbert is a leading expert on invasive Phragmites and control measures.
There’s an opportunity to establish a Phragmites Management Area (PMA) for the Cataraqui Region (same area as the jurisdiction of Cataraqui Conservation) if there is sufficient interest. Page 7 of 75
-
Page 3 of 14 The primary reason for establishing a PMA is to facilitate coordinated projects / project funding to make the most of resources. This guidebook outlines PMAs and includes guidance on control and practices to reduce its spread: https://www.greenshovels.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Ontario-PhragmitesStrategy_DRAFT_Public-Review_WEB.pdf. If you notice that this guidebook could be improved, it is updated annually, and Colin Cassin (Invasive Species Centre ccassin@invasivespeciescentre.ca) would like to hear your suggestions.
- An overview of the Green Shovels Collaborative and their efforts to support collaborative responses to invasive Phragmites - Colin Cassin, Invasive Species Centre
Colin’s presentation is available as Attachment 4 to these notes.
Colin works to find an allocate resources to support invasive species projects.
In addition, this is a helpful reference for cost-benefit analysis: https://www.greenshovels.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Ontario-Phragmites-Cost-BenefitAnalysis_DRAFT_Public-Review_WEB.pdf
- Phragmites Monitoring and Control Approaches on and near Nature Conservancy Properties Megan Quinn and Ally Belanger, Nature Conservancy of Canada
Megan and Ally’s presentation is Attachment 5 to these notes.
NCC work in eastern Ontario has included invasive Phragmites monitoring and control (11 sites with 9 in the Frontenac Arch area).
- Guided discussion: sharing local efforts, skill sets, tools, concerns.
The participants all agreed that the PMA seems to be a good idea and would be helpful for implementation support.
Time was spent with general discuss about resources, questions, concerns, and potential collaborations. Attachment 6 provides a summary of the discussion.
- Wrap-up / Next Steps – Holly Evans, Cataraqui Conservation
There was general support for the establishment of a PMA from workshop participants.
There will be a second workshop to build on this one (March 21, 2024) including firming up plans to apply for funding to support a collaborative project that would monitor for the presence and extent of Phragmites in the region.
Following the two workshops and confirmed interest, Holly will bring forward a proposal to Cataraqui Conservations Board of Director’s to establish a PMA.
For further information contact: Holly Evans, Cataraqui Conservation, Watershed Planning Coordinator 613-546-4228 ext. 233 hevans@crca.ca
Page 8 of 75
ATTACHMENT 1 – Organization Data Sheet Summary to Date Organization Reason for Top Concerns Monitor and attending the Report workshop Dog & Cranberry Lake
Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve Page 9 of 75
Generally, Biodiversity learn more, Access project funding; Regional cooperation and information sharing; Other to learn more about using the EddMaps App for locating Phragmites
No
General learning; Regional cooperations and information sharing
No
Biodiversity
Page 4 of 14 Removal
Focus of certain conditions
Yes, with the hand tools kits borrowed from Cataraqui Conservation
No
No
Wild rice project
Practices or protocols to prevent of limit the spread Posted Clean, Drain, Dry signage
No
Specific Programs
Specialized training
Equipment and supplies
Biggest obstacle
Other
No
No
No
Getting a volunteer to lead a Phragmites initiative
Need to know who will remove from public lands, like roadsides/ditches, where is settles and spreads.
No
No
No
Since removal efforts are dependent on private landowners taking ac1on, le]ng people know the seriousness of the nega1ve impacts this invasive species is key. If residents are aware that others are very concerned and that organiza1ons such as yours feel it is important enough to take ac1on this will help to convince them. Knowing that money is made available to help is also a factor that may help to bring people on board for removal. Lack of We require the funding/capacity expertise and volunteers to learn how to remove phragmites responsibly and effectively should we decide to
Page 10 of 75
Lamb’s Pond
General learning; Regional cooperations and information sharing
Thousand Islands National Park
General learning; Access project funding; Regional cooperation and information sharing; determine volunteer interest
South Frontenac Township
General learning; Regional cooperation
Biodiversity; Invasive Phragmites is spreading on properties owned by my organization Biodiversity; Fire Risk; Invasive Phragmites is spreading on properties owned by my organization
Yes, help from Cataraqui Conservation (EDDMapS)
Yes, cut todrown using raspberry canecutters
Yes, within Lamb’s Pond (PSW)
No
No
No
Yes, borrowed from Cataraqui Conservation
Building awareness and support
Yes, ArcGIS Field Maps
Yes, targeted cut-to-drown
Yes, sites within the park boundary and areas near special habitats are prioritized
Yes, Ontario Invasive Plant Council Best Management Plan
No
Yes, exterminator (full and tech)
Yes, raspberry cane cutters, loppers and hand pruners, brush cutter, spray tanks and some various chemical pesticides
Jurisdiction and resources
Yes, excavator while ditching
No
Yes, if removed No it is dealt with properly
No
No
Cost, benefits of removing them, what to do with removed plants
Biodiversity; No Transportation issues; Invasive Phragmites is
Page 5 of 14 incorporate this work into our wetland/wild rice (Manoomin) monitoring and restoration work. We are trying to compile information about all the conservation work happening in our region, so at the very least, knowing what is going on is beneficial.
It is my opinion that TINP would be happy to work towards a partnership on a collaborative project to tackle Phragmites across the Watershed through CRCA. I believe that our organization could benefit from volunteers supporting the removal of Phragmites patches. and funding to support more staff dedicated to invasive removal.
and information sharing Nature Conservancy of Canada
General learning; Regional cooperation and information sharing
Lower Trent Conservation City of Brockville
General learning General learning
Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks
Elizabethtown- General Kitley learning; Resident Regional cooperation and information sharing
Page 11 of 75
Oliphant Fishing Islands Phragmites Community Group (OFIPCG)
Regional cooperation and information sharing
spreading on properties owned by my organization Biodiversity; Invasive Phragmites is spreading on properties owned by my organization No
Page 6 of 14
Yes, GIS (ArcGIS Field Maps), polygons, field staff and technicians
Yes, chemical and manual; community events
Yes, areas of high biodiversity
Yes
Yes, annual monitoring and removal; NCC has a large program across Ontario
Yes, volunteer events; Herbicide license (aquatic and forestry)
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes, ArcGIS Field Maps, shovels, raspberry cane cutters, backpack sprayers No
Invasive No Phragmites is spreading on properties owned by my organization Biodiversity; No Fire Risk; Transportation issues; Invasive Phragmites is spreading on properties owned by my organization Biodiversity Yes, photos of Phragmites taken over the years in the ditches near our home and EDD-maps in the past
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Best Management Practise (Ontario Invasive Plant Council)
Learned technique while working with OFIPCG in Oliphant, Lake Huron
Raspberry cane cutters
Biodiversity
Yes, manual (raspberry cane cutting and Stihl hedgetrimmers); hired Invasive Phragmites Control Centre for densest
Best Management Practise (Ontario Invasive Plant Council)
OFIPCG volunteers are trained for manual control by senior members of the group, NCC and IPCC are trained by their
OFIPCG own 2 rafts, 2 snowmobile sleds, cane cutters, 3 Stihl saws. IPCC = Truxors for cutting and additional
Yes, annual surveys by OFIPCG + NCC / NCC and IPCC do mapping
Yes, cut small amounts in 3 stands near New Dublin over the last 10+ years
Phragmites invading the sensitive coastal wetlands of Lake Huron Phragmites in water around the islands and
Conflicting priorities
Financial resources Lack of Knowledge
Looking for support from the municipality +/- conservation authorities to control Phragmites in roadside ditches near New Dublin and other similar sites adjacent to wetlands Very large scale of the affected area (hundreds of acres degraded by Phragmites occupation that has been established for
Gain understanding / knowledge; Help with best practices
Present challenge is to have the Phragmites sprayed with herbicide where it is growing along the miles of roadside ditches
Phragmites in the deepest water - cut and biomass removed by Truxors
offshore from the mainland with highest priority over Phragmites on land
No
No
No
Yes, smaller inwater patches where cut-todrown is effective
Yes, BMPs, signage at boat ramps
Queen’s University Biological Station (QUBS)
General learning; Regional cooperation and information sharing
Biodiversity; Invasive Phragmites is spreading on properties owned by my organization
No
Cataraqui Conservation
General learning; Access Funding; Regional cooperation and information sharing
Biodiversity; Invasive Phragmites is spreading on properties owned by my organization
Yes, EDDMapS Yes, limited hand removals
organizations Janice Gilbert of IPCC provides additional in the water training as needed for OFIPCG volunteers No
Nothing currently aside from summer students. Developing an invasive species monitoring and management program for the station, with a focus on Dog Strangling Vine. However, increasing our knowledge and abilities to manage other invasives will be an added bonus. Yes, hand tool No lending kits and limited staff support for work removal bees
equipment for herbicide application. Municipality provides backhoe and dump truck for disposal of biomass. No
10+ years), considerable expense and human physical effort to continue the long control effort (2024 will be 8th year) Labour and funding
Yes, hand tools only, but plan to receive a STIHL cutter
Resources and a regional plan
Page 7 of 14 on the miles of mainland. Failing to do this will result in roadside Phragmites spreading back out into the coastal wetlands. Need increased awareness, cooperative partnerships, access to resources including monitoring and management techniques.
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Page 8 of 14 ATTACHMENT 2 – Roundtable Summary Name Colin Cassin Holly Evans
Organization Invasive Species Centre Cataraqui Conservation
Evan Bancroft
South Frontenac Township City of Kingston Dog & Cranberry Lake Association Thousand Islands National Park City of Brockville
Marc Hogan Janet Brown and Daryl Neve Sara Baker Dan Elwood and Alex Lavigne Christine Grossutti
Shelley Gallagher
Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve Cataraqui Conservation Cataraqui Conservation St. Lawerence Commission Ontario Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks Oliphant Fishing Islands Phragmites Community Group (OFIPCG) and Elizabethtown-Kitley resident Lower Trent Conservation Lamb’s Pond
Bobbi Chiappetta
Lamb’s Pond
Kelsey Guerette Steve Knapton Greg Faaren Tim Hannah Leslie Wood
John Mahoney
Phragmites Comments Coordinates programs and resources for Phragmites Responsible for watershed monitoring and report and often works with partners to collaborate on research and projects to improve watershed health and understanding. Started a project last year to raise awareness of invasive Phragmites and will continue this year with lending kit, some hand removal support for community work bees and will start monitoring / identification on conservation lands Evan administers the weed spraying program for the municipality Involved with stormwater management and weed control Have completed some hand removal around the lakes Most Phragmites work has been related to species at risk Want to learn more about this topic and how their operations could be modified to help reduce the spread and / or eradicate the species Want to learn about the PMA and what organizations are doing Leads the Source Water Protection Program and supports other business areas as possible Works in conservation lands and is interested to participate in projects to monitoring and control Phragmites Currently not a lot is being done to manage Phragmites, but it is an area that requires attention Is the regional pesticide specialist and is responsible to review applications for in-water pesticide applications Has led invasive Phragmites removal in Lake Huron for years, lives in Elizabethtown-Kitley Township (Lamb’s Pond) and knows how to successfully build grassroots interest and organizational momentum to tackle Phragmites.
Page 13 of 75
Works in the conservation lands department and wants to learn more about the PMA and Phragmites monitoring and control Coordinated community removal days on Lamb’s Pond. One patch was mostly removed (some shoots are coming up again) and there are six other patches around the Provincially Significant wetland. Part of the group working to remove Phragmites from Lamb’s Pond
Page 9 of 14 ATTACHMENT 3 – All About Phragmites and a Phragmites Management Area slides
Page 14 of 75
Cataraqui Region Invasive Phragmites Workshop #1 Page 15 of 75
Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area – January 15, 2024 1
Page 16 of 75
2
Page 17 of 75
All About Phragmites and a Phragmites Management Area Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area – January 15, 2024 3
Presentation Outline • Invasive Phragmites • What is it?
• Why do we care?
• Phragmites Management Area • What is it? • Why do it? • How does it work?
Page 18 of 75
4
Invasive Phragmites Identification • Grows up to 5 m tall in dense patches. • Produces seed heads with many seeds • Dead material remains standing for multiple seasons so dead stalks and seed heads may be visible Photo Credit: Princeton Hydro Page 19 of 75
5
Invasive Phragmites Impacts • Decreases abundance and diversity of native plants • Disrupt hydrology and nutrient cycling • Creates fire and driving hazards • Damages infrastructure • Decreases property values • Restricts the movement of animals in the habitat • Decreases recreational opportunities
Image Credit: Ernie Lynch
Image Credit: Leslie J. Mehrhoff Page 20 of 75
6
Image Credit: Amy Whitear
Phragmites Management Area (PMA)
Image Credit: OFAH
Page 21 of 75
7
Image Credit: OFAH
Phragmites Management Area (PMA)
Image Credit: OFAH
Page 22 of 75
8
Image Credit: OFAH
Phragmites Management Area – Benefits • Reasons to Establish a PMA: • Coordination for an integrated and landscape-approach • All stakeholders are aware of collaboration opportunities • Funding applications geared to maximize local impact • Knowledge sharing
Image Credit: Ernie Lynch
Image Credit: Leslie J. Mehrhoff Page 23 of 75
9
Phragmites Management Area – How it Works • Regional Coordinator hosts meetings • Gathers information and identifies common concerns and potential collaborations • Receives initial applications for Green Shovels Funding and advises the funder of priorities
Image Credit: Leslie J. Mehrhoff Page 24 of 75
10
Thank You Holly Evans Watershed Planning Coordinator hevans@crca.ca
Page 25 of 75
11
Guided Discussion
Is the PMA a good idea?
Local efforts
Skillsets
Equipment
Concerns Page 26 of 75
Priorities
12
Page 10 of 14 ATTACHMENT 4 – Developing a Coordinated Response to Phragmites Management slides
Page 27 of 75
DEVELOPING A COORDINATED RESPONSE TO PHRAGMITES MANAGEMENT Supporting Local Action on Phragmites
Page 28 of 75
v
Colin Cassin, Invasive Species Centre January 15, 2024
www.greenshovels.ca GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
Together we represent millions of people, with members and supporters who are nature lovers, cottagers, outdoor recreationists, anglers and hunters. We are also land managers, with many hectares of land under ownership or management. We came together to offer a list of shovel ready projects which would achieve the government’s objectives of job creation and economic recovery, along with important benefits to local communities and the environment. Page 29 of 75
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
2
The Problem with Invasive Phragmites • Pronounced frag-my-tees • Also known as Common or European Reed • A perennial wetland grass, forms dense monocultures • Considered “Canada’s worst invasive plant” • • • •
Extensive root system Found in aquatic, semi aquatic, terrestrial environments Prefers standing water (wetlands, stream banks, lakeshores, beaches) Outcompetes native species and reduces biological diversity
• Tolerances: Page 30 of 75
• Salt tolerant • Susceptible to drought, low oxygen (flooding), water level fluctuations
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
3
Habitat and Distribution • Throughout Ontario • Especially common in Southern Ontario and along the coastal Great Lakes • Found in wet or low-lying areas • A common sight along shorelines, highways and roadways • Thrives in disturbed areas Page 31 of 75
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
4
Goals of Management
- Successfully prevent the continued spread or establishment of Phragmites populations.
- Reduce or eradicate existing populations of Phragmites
- Manage Phragmites effectively using the most efficient and effective strategies which create the least possible disturbance to native species.
Page 32 of 75
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
5
The Need for Collaboration • “Random acts of stewardship” approach simply won’t cut it • Collaboration across the fence is essential for long term success
• Phragmites does not respect property lines • Important to treat the patch, not just the edge!
Untreated
Page 33 of 75
Treated
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
6
The Need for Collaboration
Page 34 of 75
• The impacts of Phragmites are felt across Ontario and beyond. • Each region has its own unique strengths, challenges and needs. • Some regions have seen extensive Phragmites growth while others are on the edge of expansion. • Management needs to consider the bigger provincial picture GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
7
Developing a Coordinated Response • There are great people doing great work on the landscape! • Projects are often localized (think site, wetland, property) in scale, and may be occurring alongside other efforts. • Jurisdictional boundaries can create obstacles or limit implementation by individual groups • Coordination through regional lens allows the opportunity to leverage available resources, expertise and funds.
Page 35 of 75
To successfully manage Phragmites, an integrated, landscape-scale implementation plan that includes all necessary partners, rights holders and stakeholders within a region is needed.
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
8
Guiding Documents for Coordinated Phragmites Control • • • • • •
Comprehensive vision for collaborative action - including prioritized actions and program governance Regional Implementation Planning Guidebook – How-to guide for establishing landscape-scale programs across Ontario Indigenous Engagement Strategy to support a larger program Communications Strategy with outreach priorities to ensure public and key sector support/participation Cost-Benefit Analysis – make sure the numbers add up! Provincial input received from the Inter-ministerial Invasive Species committee (NDMNRF, OMAFRA, MTO, MECP)
Page 36 of 75
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE
9
What is a Phragmites Management Area (PMA)? • Geographic/spatial unit where Phragmites control and planning is coordinated across a range of partners interested in mapping and controlling invasive Phragmites • Boundaries are flexible depending on the right fit for the geography and existing Phragmites efforts but by could use 1) watersheds, 2) municipal 3) MNRF Districts or other jurisdictional boundaries • PMA’s are an approach to coordinate partners within a local/regional area where Phragmites management will take place, reduce overlap and maximise collaboration • PMA’s allow local partners, rights holders and stakeholders to leverage their collective effort for landscape-scale implementation • PMA’s can connect the “Random Acts of Stewardship” that may be occurring alongside eachother, leveraging the success and return on investment of their individual efforts! Page 37 of 75
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 10
Establishing a PMA Working Group • Pulling together people with a combined interest in Phrag management is helpful: o Bring diverse skillsets o Access to equipment o Personnel o Expertise and buy-in
• Meant to be inclusive collaborations that recognize Phragmites is of interest to a wide range of people • Imperative to identify and include rights holders from the outset: o First Nations and Indigenous communities have constitutionally-protected rights Page 38 of 75
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 11
Upcoming Events and Workshops A Few Opportunities to Learn More about Phragmites • OPWG Annual Meeting | Online | Jan 25 | www.ontarioinvasiveplants.ca o Cost: $120 o Green Shovels partner update
Guidebook Update PMAWG Pilot Implementation Genetic testing – FY24 and future plans Invasive Phragmites Control Fund FY24 – MNRF investment, key project spotlights and collective impact
• ISC Annual Forum | Online | Feb 12-15 | www.invasivespeciescentre.ca/forum o Cost: free o Invasive Phragmites Control Fund Standout Recipient Celebration (Feb 12) o Biological Control Agent Update
• Developing a Phrag Working Group Workshop | Online | TBD: Late Feb & Early May | www.greenshovels.ca • Cost: free • Dates TBD – (late Feb/early May) • Provide an overview of the Phragmites Regional Plan Guidebook
Page 39 of 75
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 12
Part 2: Funding the Fight on Phrag • Thanks to Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, the ISC has administered the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund for 4+ years • 2023-24: 21+ projects totalling $250,000
• Annual call for proposals has typically been posted in May, with notifications delivered in June. • We plan to run another cycle in the spring, with established PMAWG’s receiving priority consideration • Although the budget for the next cycle has yet to be determined, we hope to continue to grow the size of the pot to support more excellent community led work • More information will be made available through: Page 40 of 75
• www.invasivespeciescentre.ca/grants • www.greenshovels.ca
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 13
Invasive Phragmites Control Fund 2023/24 Project Spotlight Shawanaga First Nation
Town of Ajax
Severn Sound Environmental Assn
Conserving wetlands in Shawanaga First Nation’s Traditional Territory from Invasive Phragmites
Ajax Invasive Phragmites Strategic Management Plan
Severn Sound Watershed Roadside Invasive Phragmites Mapping Initiative
“The Ajax Invasive Phragmites Strategic Management Plan will map existing locations of invasive Phragmites across the Town and prioritize these locations for strategic, realistic, and effective control”
“SSEA surveyed ~2,000km of municipal roadways for invasive phragmites and created a comprehensive map that can better inform future municipal Phragmites management”
“
Page 41 of 75
“Our Lands and Resource Department started an Indigenous Phragmites Control Unit to combat, address, and manage the spread of Phragmites and other invasives in the Shawanaga traditional territory”
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 14
Joint Submission to Future IPCF Cycle • Issue: limited/incomplete Phragmites inventory across a PMA
• Municipal roads have outdated inventories. Municipal parks have no data • Some CA & Land Trust properties have recent monitoring data, others lacking • College & University manage large lands but lack monitoring data
• Solution: A collaborative proposal is submitted to a spring cycle of the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund on behalf of PMAWG • One member applies for salary $ to cover 2 summer technicians to map all Phragmites on PMAWG submitted public lands •
All roads are flagged by municipality, 3 municipal parks are flagged, 6 CA properties and 3 Land Trust properties are also flagged. The College and University each request inventories
• The proposal covers a rental vehicle for the season, fuel, a tablet and software to map Phragmites under suggested format. • The proposal also allows PMAWG to review the inventory map in mid summer and identify 3 priority Phragmites control projects on public lands • The proposal includes contractor control costs to manage the 3 sites (estimated at time of submission)
• Future Opportunity: this inventory becomes the backbone of collaborative efforts for the next few years Page 42 of 75
• The inventory will support a larger control proposal in the next IPCF cycle, with touch up control projects completed at the original 3 management sites • Additional data can be added to the inventory in the future as unknown populations are discovered and control projects completed
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 15
Solo Submission to Future IPCF Cycle • Issue: limited/incomplete Phragmites inventory within a particular part of a PMAWG
• Municipal roads have outdated inventories. Municipal parks have no data • Most CA & Land Trust properties have recent monitoring data and seasonal staff that have updates on their workplan • College & University manage large lands but lack monitoring data. Other barriers prevent engagement on PMAWG at this time
• Solution: A proposal is submitted to a spring cycle of the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund on behalf of municipality
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• Municipality applies for salary $ and vehicle costs to support portion of planned seasonal staff workplan to allow them to complete inventory of all municipal properties (roads, parks, etc.) for Phragmites • The proposal covers a rental vehicle for the season, fuel, a tablet and software to map Phragmites under suggested format • Mapping information will be made available to PMAWG/public database to support future collaboration and shared action
GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 16
Thank You! Colin Cassin ccassin@invasivespeciescentre.ca
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GREEN SHOVELS COLLABORATIVE 18
Page 11 of 14 ATTACHMENT 5 – Phragmites Monitoring and Control Approaches on and near Nature Conservancy Properties slides
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Phragmites Monitoring and Control Approaches Nature Conservancy of Canada Megan Quinn & Ally Belanger Page 46 of 75
15th January 2024
NCC’s Eastern Ontario Team
NCC
NCC
NCC
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Megan Quinn
Ally Belanger
Rob McRae
Coordinator, Conservation Biology Eastern Ontario
Assistant, Conservation Biology Eastern Ontario
Program Director Eastern Ontario
Outline • Who We Are • Property Context • NCC Phragmites Control Sites • Phragmites Mapping • Working on Private Lands • Control: o Chemical o Manual o Community outreach
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• Phragmites Monitoring • Successes • Lessons Learned • Looking Ahead:
o Landscape scale mapping o Private lands & partnerships
• Questions NCC
Where We Work: Ontario Region
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Where We Work: Frontenac Arch
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Phragmites Mapping
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NCC
Phragmites Mapping
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2010
2019
2021
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Working on Private Lands
NCC
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Monitoring: Use of Drones
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NCC
NCC
Control Methods: Chemical
NCC NCC
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NCC
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Control Methods: Manual
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NCC
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Control Methods: Community Outreach
NCC
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NCC
NCC
Phragmites Monitoring • Initial mapping • Control • Follow up monitoring
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NCC
NCC
Successes
After
NCC
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Before
NCC
Successes
After Page 62 of 75
Before
NCC
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Lessons Learned
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• Plan ahead • Reach out for help/resources • Have clear and flexible expectations when it comes to manual control • Quality equipment (sharpen shovels)
NCC
Looking Ahead • Internal resource sharing in 2024 • Landscape scale mapping and control • Private landowner partnerships • Working with partners Page 64 of 75
NCC
Questions? Megan.quinn@natureconservancy.ca 613 876 1416 Page 65 of 75
ATTACHMENT 6 – Summary of Guided Discussion
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The following list was displayed on a slide to stimulate group discussion: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Is the PMA a good idea? Local efforts Skillsets Equipment Concerns Priorities
The group was asked whether establishing a PMA seems like a good idea and everyone agreed that that it does.
Question: Are there any international groups efforts to control Phragmites?
Answer: Colin Cassin – Not like PMAs. There is a PAMF (Phragmites Management Area Framework)https://www.greatlakesphragmites.net/pamf/ and in the US that have different approaches in each state for invasive species work, but nothing Phragmites specific.
Question: Is moving effective to control the spread of Phragmites?
Answer: Leslie Wood – Phragmites a grass so mowing won’t get rid of it. Mowing before the seeds mature and disperse can help to reduce the spread. Phragmites along roadsides generally requires herbicide to eradicate it. Municipalities and road authorities can consider selective spraying since roadside populations can migrate into nearby sensitive areas.
Holly Evans: A future meeting could provide information on best practices for municipal roads departments.
Marc Hogan: Municipal involvement is important. In the City of Kingston, spraying is a very sensitive topic, and it would be a challenge to implement this control method in the City.
Tim Hannah: Municipalities do have roadside spraying programs; however, the pesticides currently being used may not be the right compound for Phragmites.
Collin Cassin: Noted that when he speaks to people, he indicates using an integrated pest management approach. This means using pesticides as necessary. It’s important for people to hear about successful control projects to build momentum and sometimes pesticides are needed.
Leslie Wood: Mentioned how in her area some people were against spraying and only wanted her on their property if she was removing by hand, but after seeing how quickly the Phragmites was spreading, they have shifted to saying spraying is okay.
Leslie Wood - Oliphant Fishing Islands Phragmites Community Group (OFIPCG): Informing and involving municipal councils is crucial to success.
Holly Evans: Cataraqui Conservation knows that there is Phragmites on some of our conservation lands. This year we plan to do some removal (in-water by hand) of known smaller Page 66 of 75
Page 13 of 14 patches. There’s an opportunity to talk with talk with municipalities that do roadside spraying to see if they could target Phragmites areas, especially around areas that may be more vulnerable (near wetlands, etc.). There’s a need to have a more complete inventory of where Phragmites is on our properties and throughout the region.
Collin Cassin: Asked how people feel about working together on monitoring as the first project collaboration for the PMA. He added that it could be a good opportunity to ask for funding and an educational tour for municipal councilors could be incorporated. The Nature Conservancy of Canda site on Leland Road, where they have coordinated with private landowners and South Frontenac Township, could be included.
Sara Baker: Asked if there’s an opportunity to do a workshop on their properties and noted that it’s more effective to do workshops with all age groups (especially youth). There are some patches of Phragmites in Thousand Islands National Park that could be removed for a success story.
Bobbie Chiappetta – St Lawrence River projects could be a good place to start (tourism, property owners along the water)
Holly Evans: Coordinated data management for inventory and tracking control efforts is a big consideration for Phragmites work. Maybe this could be included as a specific discussion topic at the next meeting.
Alex Lavigne: If we can show the data showing where there’s a lot of Phragmites is, that could be helpful for working with and gaining municipal interest as well as interest from other groups.
Janet Brown and Alex Lavigne: Including observations and help from the OFATV (Ontario Federation of ATVers) and the OFAH (Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters would increase coverage in the region. Is it possible to include a number to call or a link to submit a text within the app that ATVers already use?
Collin Cassin: Project idea – Year 1 = Figure out where Phragmites is and create partnerships; Year 2 = Communicate findings and start to build a management plan with costs and resources per type of control (e.g., wetlands, roads, trails, railways, etc.); Year 3+ = finalize plan and work on management.
Question: Can Phragmites be identified on aerial images?
Answer: Phragmites looks different throughout the year, so it’s challenging
The Nature Conservancy is working with the University of Waterloo to see if AI will be effective to identify Phragmites using aerial images (NCC’s confirmed field data are being used as training sites for the AI).
Question: Is anyone at Queen’s University doing Phragmites research
Answer: Note sure yet. A person from the Queen’s Biological Station plans to attend the next meeting.
Question: Could NCC provide a list of the fields that are included in their ArcGIS Fild Mapping app?
- Yes
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Page 14 of 14 Sara Baker: Thousand Islands National Park uses iNaturalist and you can create project groups so that there could be a Cataraqui Region Phragmites Group. However, you can’t create polygons to illustrate the area of Phragmites at each location.
Collin Cassin: There’s a potential opportunity for GIS/mapping sharing through funding (i.e., purchase additional licenses for ArcGIS Fild Mapping). This will be confirmed for the next workshop.
An idea is being explored by the Invasive Species Centre (Collin Cassin) to consolidate mapping apps to maximize the efficiencies of each program. Colin expects to be able to report on this within a year.
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To: Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee Prepared by: Development Services Department Date of Meeting: March 21, 2024 Subject: Lake Ecosystem Grant Policy Update
Summary This report provides the Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee with a summary of the Lake Ecosystem Grant Program, and outlines proposed revisions to the program policy for discussion.
Recommendation The Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee recommend Council approve the revised Lake Ecosystem Grant program policy as attached to this report.
Background The Lake Ecosystem Grant program was established in 2021. The program was modeled after the Township’s successful Community Grant Program. The Lake Ecosystem Grant program supports and encourages the preservation, restoration, monitoring and analysis of lake ecosystems within the Township. It places priority on projects that have the greatest positive impact on the health and welfare of lake ecosystems, with consideration of four objectives, which are to: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Reduce or limit diffuse or point source runoff primarily caused by human disturbance of the land Create or increase buffer zones along the lakeshore and/or banks of creeks and streams that drain into the lake Protect or enhance wildlife habitat Enable or perform monitoring and/or inventories of the lake environment and its contributing watershed in order to fill knowledge gaps
The grant program funds projects up to $10,000. On an exceptional basis, larger requests may be considered.
www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – a Progressive, Rural Leader.
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Township of South Frontenac Staff Report - Lake Ecosystem Grant Policy Update
The Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee developed criteria for evaluating submissions. These criteria relate to meeting grant program objectives; the project deliverables, workplan and feasibility; environmental benefits and challenges; and organization stability. Submissions are reviewed by a subcommittee of the Committee, plus a non-voting Township staff member. Staff assist the subcommittee in reviewing the applications and making a recommendation to the full Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee, which would then recommend a list of grant recipients to Council for final approval, similar to the Community Grants and Private Lane Assistance Grants processes. There is supposed to be annual reporting to Council summarizing the results and key learnings from projects.
Discussion The Lake Ecosystem Grant Program Policy was established at the onset of the program. It needs to be reviewed based on the subcommittee’s experience using the document and the types of applicants and applications received. The document should be updated before next year’s application intake. A 2024 draft program policy is attached. The following changes are proposed to the policy.
- Criteria for applicant eligibility The definition of a non-profit organization would be expanded to include unincorporated groups and registered charitable organizations, and to remove the bullet regarding how much of the organization’s budget can come from government grants.
- General criteria Text would be added to clarify that an organization with an active grant for a project will not be considered for a subsequent grant for a new or different project until the active project is complete. Text would also be added to clarify that the organization cannot receive other Township funding for the same project.
- Subcommittee composition The subcommittee would be revised to require a minimum of three members, and majority support for an application.
- Annual reporting Text would be added to clarify that the annual reporting to Council would be for completed projects. Staff welcome feedback on these matters, and any others that the Committee feels warrants review and revision in the Lake Ecosystem Grant Program Policy. www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – a Progressive, Rural Leader.
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Township of South Frontenac Staff Report - Lake Ecosystem Grant Policy Update
Attachment: 2024 Draft Lake Ecosystem Grant Program Policy Report Prepared By: Christine Woods, RPP, MCIP, Senior Planner
www.southfrontenac.net Natural, Vibrant and Growing – a Progressive, Rural Leader.
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Township of South Frontenac Lake Ecosystem Grant Program Project Evaluation Criteria Details
Weight
Grant Objectives
Project meets one or more of the Grant Objectives (i.e. runoff, buffer zone, wildlife habitat, monitoring).
20%
Project Deliverables, Workplan and Feasibility
Scope of project is defined by clear goals and activities. Work tasks and deliverables are clearly defined and are appropriate and achievable in the specified timelines. The proposal outlines how the project outputs, best practices and key learnings will be communicated to the public/target audience. “Funding provided by the Township of South Frontenac” is acknowledged. Project team has the knowledge and experience to complete the project. Adequate staff or volunteers to complete the project. Sufficient budgetary detail is provided. The project is cost effective.
35%
Environmental Benefits and Challenges
Proposal demonstrates how the lake ecosystem and/or community will directly benefit from the project.
25%
Organization Stability
The organization shows long-term sustainability through a robust volunteer base and stable financial governance. There is a demonstration of a long-term commitment to lake stewardship.
20%
Scoring 4 – 5 Exceeds expectations 3 Meets expectations 1 – 2 Does not meet expectations
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Township of South Frontenac Lake Ecosystem Grant Program Policy
- Purpose This policy is to establish a grant process that supports and encourages the preservation, restoration, monitoring and analysis of lake ecosystems within the Township of South Frontenac.
- Policy The Township on a yearly basis will solicit applications from non-profit organizations for projects that support the purpose of this grant policy. The total amount available within a calendar year will be based on what has been set within the year’s operating budget. Individual allocations to organizations will be based on a pre-determined structure. Being approved in one year does not guarantee funding in the following year.
- Definitions Buffer zone: A corridor of mostly undisturbed, permanently vegetated areas of land. They are transitional areas that reduce the impact of development and site alteration on adjacent natural features such as a lake. Lake ecosystem: Lakes are inland bodies of water that lack any direct contact with an ocean. Lake ecosystems include living plants, animals and micro-organisms, as well as non-living physical (e.g. light, temperature and wind) and chemical reactions. Non-profit organization: a not for profit organization including unincorporated groups or registered charitable organizations that:
have an interest in lake ecosystems within the geographic boundaries of the Township of South Frontenac, has the ability to show long-term sustainability through a robust volunteer base and stable financial governance, and can demonstrate a long-term commitment to lake stewardship.
Wildlife habitat: means areas where plants, animals and other organisms live, and find adequate amounts of food, water, shelter and space needed to sustain their populations. 4. Guidelines a. Funding Priorities Priority will be given to those projects that have the greatest positive impact on the health and welfare of lake ecosystems. Projects could impact an entire lake, but could Page 1 of 3 Page 73 of 75
also include another lake or other upstream or downstream components. Projects should incorporate one or more of the following objectives. A. B. C. D.
Reduces or limits diffuse or point source runoff primarily caused by human disturbance of the land Creates or increases buffer zones along the lakeshore and/or banks of creeks and streams that drain into the lake Protects or enhances wildlife habitat Enables or performs monitoring and/or inventories of the lake environment and its contributing watershed in order to fill knowledge gaps
Projects that do not directly incorporate one or more of the above objectives will also be accepted for consideration. b. Project Scope This grant program is designed to fund projects up to $10,000. On an exceptional basis, larger requests will be considered. There is no minimum value for a project. 5. General Criteria for Grant Recipients and Submissions All grant recipients and their submissions must meet the following criteria.
- Submissions must have a well-defined plan with measurable results and take place/be completed within 12 months of receiving the grant.
- The organization must be able to fund 25% of the total project requirements.
- Grant recipients will receive 75% of their allotted funds at the beginning of the project and the remainder upon receipt of the final report.
- Submissions must incorporate an outreach component to educate the community and build awareness of the key learnings and results of the project.
- Final reports from any previous year’s funding must have been received in order to be considered for the current year for a new or different project.
- Financial statements from the previous calendar year should be included with the applicant’s Letter of Intent, along with a list of current officers.
- Unspent funds must be returned to the Township following completion of the project.
- Applicants cannot be in receipt of other program-specific Township funding for the proposed project.
- Review Process All submissions will be reviewed by a subcommittee composed of at least three citizen representatives from the Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee, plus a non-voting Township staff member. A majority of the subcommittee members must be in agreement in order for a submission to be accepted. The submissions will be reviewed against a set of evaluation criteria. Page 2 of 3 Page 74 of 75
The subcommittee will bring its recommendations to the Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee for approval. Once this is completed, the list of proposed Grant Recipients and associated documentation will be submitted to Council for final approval. 7. Annual Reporting The Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee will provide Council an annual report summarizing the results and key learnings of each completed project that received funding through the Lake Ecosystem Grant.
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