Welcome to the 2013 Annual Report.
As a conservation agency we continued to collaborate with
numerous organizations in furthering the work of conservation
across our vast watershed. Stewardship initiatives remain an
important part of what we do as they constitute the ‘on-theground’ programs and services for which we are known.
As a reflection of the ever changing environmental challenges,
Saugeen Conservation (SVCA), has adjusted its programming to
address new concerns and issues. One of those is the sudden progression of the Emerald Ash Borer and the threat it
poses to our forests and urban landscape. SVCA has developed
tools to assist municipalities and landowners in the treatment of
this pervasive insect.
With funding provided by the Ministry of the Environment’s
Great Lakes Guardian Community Fund, site work undertaken by dedicated volunteers of the Kincardine Cross Country
Ski Club and SVCA staff, we saw great improvements to the
much used trail system at Stoney Island Conservation Area on
Lake Huron. This project was a good example of how partnering between organizations can accomplish great things!
The SVCA is also acutely aware of the financial challenges
faced by municipal partners and taxpayers. As a result, SVCA
proposed and was approved for a modest increase of only
2.2% to the general levy in 2013 and 1.5% for 2014.
Looking into 2014 we are excited about a number of new
endeavours, including the construction of an educational
trail system in the Greenock Swamp, the largest forested
wetland in Southern Ontario. The new trail system will allow
visitors to get ‘up close and personal’ to some of the natural
wonders in this incredible wetland complex.
We are also excited with the prospect of receiving significant land donations from two generous donors keen to see
their lands conserved for future generations. This will provide
Saugeen Conservation with an additional 21 hectares (52 acres)
of forested wetlands.
In closing, I would like to leave you with this brief quote from
famous naturalist John Muir. “When we try to pick out anything
by itself, we find it hitched to everything else.” Enjoy reading about our environmental accomplishments in a watershed
where ‘everything is connected to everything else’.
Bill Scriven
Chair
Highlights in 2013
CAMIS…A Camping
We Will Go!
Saugeen Conservation contracted
with CAMIS, (an on-line reservation
system), to coordinate campground
reservations for both Saugeen Bluffs and
Durham Conservation Areas. This has
worked out very well for park visitors.
Watershed Report
Cards
Emerald Ash Borer
Treatment
As the invasive emerald ash borer made
its appearance in the Saugeen watershed,
staff were doing everything they could to
be proactive against this major pest. The
Forestry Department offered landowners a specialized treatment to
protect their prized ash trees. Calls
and inquiries numbered into the hundreds. Staff will continue with treatment
options into 2014.
Thanks to the coordination efforts of
Conservation Ontario, Report Cards,
(state-of-the environment analysis), for
watersheds throughout Ontario were
released in 2013. Saugeen Conservation
participated fully. A total of 10 subwatershed Report Cards were completed as well as a formal summary report within our jurisdiction. The report
cards provide information on the state of
forests, wetlands and water quality.
Take a Hike!
Improvements were made to the
trails at Stoney Island Conservation
Area, thanks to staff, the Great Lakes
Guardian Community Fund and the
Kincardine Cross Country Ski Club. Trail
developments included new bridges, the
planting of trees, new signage and more.
“Conservation through
Cooperation”
A Saugeen Conservation slogan for many
years now, it will become apparent as you
read through these pages that many of
our accomplishments involve extensive
partnerships with literally hundreds of
groups, organizations, local businesses,
ministries and federal partners, just to
name a few.
TOGETHER – we can make it
happen!
Students greening the stormwater management pond at Sobey’s in Kincardine with staff and the
Penetangore River Watershed Group. Funding came from OPG and the local municipality.
Saugeen Conservation Watershed
In This Issue
Water
Communications
4 Flood Warning
6 Water Management
7 Environmental Planning &
19 Communications
21 Conservation Education
23 Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation
26 Volunteers and Sponsors
Regulations
9 Water Quality
11 Drinking Water Source Protection
12 Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation
13 Grassroots Conservation Efforts
Lands
15 Grey Bruce Forestry Service
17 Conservation Areas
Front cover photo: Snowy Owl by Dave Bishop.
25 Behind the Scenes
27 Administration
Water
Flood Warning
The year 2013 was characterized by a wetter than normal spring, a somewhat dry summer, which was then followed by an exceptionally wet fall.
Overall, rainfall during the growing season of April to October averaged
141% of normal values across the watershed. A total of 4 flood condition
statements were issued, the result of heavy rainfall events during this time
period. Snowfall was normal for the winter months and the actual spring
runoff was uneventful with minimal flooding or ice problems experienced.
A noteworthy benefit of the wet conditions is the gradual replenishment of
the groundwater reserves, which are back to respectable levels following
several years of decline due primarily to the reduction of supply from spring
snowmelt.
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Flood Warning Stations
Inverhuron Repairs
The final phase of repairs was completed
at the Inverhuron Flood Control Project, one of SVCA’s capital works projects.
The repair work included the replacement of a 5 metre long 600mm diameter
corrugated steel pipe. The previous one
had succumbed to corrosion.
This pipe is located on the upstream side
of a large earthen flood control berm, and
forms part of the outlet for the detention
pond.
The purpose of the project is to hold
back run-off from agricultural fields, then
provide a slow release before it enters
the lake. The project cost was shared
(50/50) between the municipality and the
province.
Water Management
Frazil Ice
In 2013, $38,000 was spent to control
the accumulation of frazil ice in the
channel of the Main Saugeen River, downstream from the lower Durham Dam.
Funds were provided (50/50) by the Province and the Municipality of West Grey.
A total of 320 hours were spent with
on-call machines to help remove frazil ice
in an attempt to prevent blockages and
possible flooding.
Capital Works
Major flood and erosion control structures were constructed to fulfill one of
the prime mandates of Conservation
Authorities across Ontario; the prevention
of loss of life, property damage and social
disruption from flood and eroision processes.
Saugeen Conservation’s flood and
erosion control structures are inspected each year as part of the routine
duties of the Water Resources Department to ensure their ongoing integrity.
Environmental Planning and
Regulations
In 2013, 150 permits were granted
under the Authority’s Development,
Interference with Wetlands, and
Alterations to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation – Ontario Regulation 169/06. No permit applications were
denied. Permits are required for works
within Regulated Areas, such as flood
plains, wetlands, and valleys, as well as
for altering watercourses. In addition, 29
violations were investigated by staff.
In February the Minister of Natural
Resources approved amendments to
all Conservation Authority Development, Interference with Wetlands,
and Alterations to Shorelines and
Watercourses Regulations. The
amended Regulation helps to streamline
the approval process, allow permits to be
valid for longer than 24 months, where
warranted, and includes some housekeeping changes.
Three years ago the SVCA appealed a
provision in the Huron-Kinloss Comprehensive Zoning By-law, and the
matter was resolved in the Authority’s favour at an OMB hearing in September. The proposed provision would
have made a change to the Environmental
Protection Zone policies, unacceptable
to the Authority. With the agreement of
Huron-Kinloss Council, the provision was
removed by order of the OMB.
As of November 25th, 2013 all Fish
Habitat Management Agreements
between conservation authorities and
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO)
were cancelled due to amendments
to the Fisheries Act. Previous partnership agreements are no longer applicable.
The SVCA had a Level 2 Agreement
with DFO for almost 14 years. Hundreds
of watercourse projects were reviewed
to ensure aquatic habitat was protected.
The conclusion of this partnership does
not affect the SVCA’s Development, Interference with Wetlands, and Alterations
to Shorelines and Watercourses Regulation – Ontario Regulation 169/06.
Staff made a presentation to the Joint
Review Panel for the proposed Deep
Geologic Repository for Low and Intermediate Level Nuclear Waste. The
facility is proposed to be located at the
Bruce Nuclear complex in the Municipality of Kincardine. The project has aspects
that are relevant to the Authority, including flooding, storm water management,
and natural heritage features.
150
29
99%
3
1
1
permits granted
violations investigated
planning comments submitted on time
major presentations made
species at risk information session
radio interview conducted
Conservation authorities and the land
drainage community implemented a
protocol for municipal drain maintenance and repair activities. This
internal document establishes a means by
which conservation authorities and municipalities can fulfill their responsibilities
under the Conservation Authorities Act
and the Drainage Act respectively.
A lengthy Regulation 169/06 enforcement matter was finally resolved in
2013. In 2010, construction of additions
and interior works occurred without
SVCA permission at a residential property located in the flood plain in the Town
of Hanover. The property owner, the
builder, and the Chief Building Official
were charged with contravention of the
SVCA’s development Regulation. The
defendants pleaded guilty with fines of
almost $12,000 and are required to take
actions to mitigate the effects on the
flood plain.
A total of 342 planning applications
were reviewed. Providing responses in a
timely manner is of utmost importance.
In 2013, 99% of SVCA comments were
submitted on time.
Environmental Planning and Regulations
Reconstruction of a headrace gate on a private dam on the Teeswater River.
Meetings & Partnerships
1 Shoreline Regulations Presentation
4 Grey County Natural Heritage Sys-
at the ‘Coastal Clinic’ event (Bruce County
Museum), in cooperation with the Lake
Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation. The
information session focussed on the shoreline
environment and Regulations.
2
Federal Department of Fisheries and
Oceans, in cooperation with Saugeen Conservation, held an Information Session on
aquatic species at risk (SAR) designated under
federal legislation.
3 DFO, municipal drain classification
database upgrades. A multi-year project
with conservation authorities having collected
data on fish habitat in drains. This latest phase
involves the collection of data into a consistent
format, making it accessible to all stakeholder
groups, such as drainage superintendents.
tems Study committee meeting. The
County is in the early stages of such a study.
5
Watercourse Close-ins meeting
involving southwestern conservation authorities. There is an increase in headwater
streams being closed in with pipes associated
with farmland expansion. Regulations staff
across the board discussed shared experiences and concerns.
6 Memorandum of Understanding with
Hanover regarding SVCA Regulation. As
a consequence of a settlement for a court
case, an MoU between the Town and Saugeen
Conservation has been established to help
ensure full compliance with the SVCA’s Regulation 169/06 in the future.
7 Radio interview with ‘98 the Beach’,
focussed on Lake Huron shoreline Regulations
and how it may affect properties and future
plans by the owners.
8
Presentation on Saugeen Conservation
Regulation for the Town of Saugeen Shores
staff.
9 Saugeen Conservation makes it a point to
offer information sessions about the Environmental Planning and Regulation to all new
members of municipal building department
staff.
Water Quality
Biomonitoring
Benthos (bottom dwelling insects,
crustaceans, worms and mollusks)
are collected at test sites across the
watershed. These organisms can be
excellent indicators of local water quality.
Recent results (over the past five years),
indicate that the type of benthos has
changed across the watershed, favouring
those which are more tolerant of polluted
conditions which means Saugeen Conservation will continue to closely monitor
these organisms and investigate possible
causes for water quality deterioration.
Surface Water
Sampling
Saugeen Conservation monitors 29
sites within the Saugeen, Lake Fringe,
Pine and Penetangore River Watersheds monthly during ice free periods.
These samples are analyzed by the
Ministry of the Environment and private
laboratories for general chemistry, including phosphorus, nitrates and E. coli.
Ministry of Environment
Nutrient Management
Monitoring
Since 2004, 15 streams in agricultural
watersheds across southwestern Ontario have been monitored for water
quality, flow, and benthic invertebrates.
Of major interest are E. coli, suspended
solids, and nutrients such as nitrate
and total phosphorus. This program is
ongoing and is led by the Ministry of the
Environment.
A long-term goal of this project is to examine trends in water quality in relation
to changing agricultural practices.
Watershed Report
Cards
The release of the second set of
Watershed Report Cards was certainly an achievement for the SVCA
Water Quality Department in 2013.
The report cards provide watershed
residents with a rating of local wetlands,
forests and, as well, water quality for both
surface and groundwater sources.
The ultimate goal from one set of report
cards to another is to see improvements
in the grades for all parameters. We
all depend on a healthy environment in
which to live, work and play. A healthy
environment makes for healthier communities.
‡ 203 samples taken at 29 surface water sampling sites (15 SVCA, 14 Provincial as
part of the PWQMN)
‡ 23 samples taken at 17 groundwater sampling sites at 14 locations (23 aquifers as
part of the PGMN)
‡ 54 samples taken (6 sets of 9) by the ISCO automated water sampler under the
Rural Stormwater Management Model (see following page)
Groundwater
Monitoring
Understanding how and why groundwater levels change in aquifers assists the
SVCA in making wise decisions in areas
such as applications for Permits To Take
Water, land-use development and aggregate development expansion applications.
This program is supported by funds from
the Ministry of the Environment.
The SVCA monitors 23 groundwater
aquifers in 17 wells throughout the
watershed. Ten wells monitor bedrock
aquifers, while 13 monitor overburden
aquifers. Overburden aquifers are those
that have been located in loose soil, sand,
or gravel overlying solid rock or bedrock.
Aquifers tend to be deeper and located in
parent materials such as bedrock.
Within these wells, water level is logged
hourly, while water quality samples are
collected annually in the fall. Any exceedences of the Ontario Drinking Water
Standards are reported to municipalities
and the local Health Unit for follow-up.
Water Quality
Groups and Affiliates:
Technical Advisory Committee for the Ontario Benthos Biomonitoring Network
Technical Advisory Committee for the Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network
Watershed Report Card Implementation Committee
Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network Southwestern Working Group
Dorset Environmental Science Centre
Healthy Lake Huron Technical Working Committee
Provincial Water Qaulity Monitoring Network
Rain gauges are incorporated into various
well sites throughout the province to
allow for a better understanding of the
correlation between precipitation and
groundwater levels. This data supports
the groundwater component of the Low
Water Response Program. The SVCA
has three rain gauges associated with this
program.
The ISCO Sampler
An ISCO sampler is an automated device
that samples water. One such device was
installed on the South Pine River to sample water in the river during peak flows.
Once programmed, it takes samples at
set time intervals with a capacity to take
24 /1L samples. The SVCA then decides
which samples will be analyzed, depending on the parameters being studied.
The data will be used to help calibrate
the Rural Stormwater Management
Model.
Drinking Water Source Protection
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LHCCC’s MISSION – to provide leadership and
expertise, in collaboration with partners, to achieve
a healthy Lake Huron coastal ecosystem.
Saugeen Conservation works very closely with the LHCCC, especially as it concerns issues,
projects and initiatives along the Lake Huron shoreline. There is approximately 100km of Lake
Huron Shoreline within Saugeen Conservation jurisdiction.
2013 Highlights and Accomplishments
Jessica Frigault, was hired as an intern at the LHCCC with funding from
the Science Horizon’s Youth Internship Program. Jessica investigated and
researched bugs that live in the shallow
lake bed along Lake Huron to help determine water quality issues. The samples
were stored and analyzed at the SVCA’s
lab in Formosa. Martha Nicol assisted Jessica while at Saugeen.
In August of 2013, the LHCCC was
honoured with the Minister of the Environment’s ‘Award for Environmental
Excellence’.
Students from local schools participated
in hands-on activities including dune grass
planting and harvesting through the Living Beaches Education Program.
In May of 2013, the LHCCC held a campaign called ‘Hold on to Your Butts’,
sponsored by the Grand Bend Community Foundation. The purpose was to
curtail cigarette butts littering beaches.
The LHCCC developed a unique cardboard-like disposal system that provides
an excellent means by which to hold
cigarette butts until they can be disposed
of properly.
The LHCCC is an avid partner of
‘Healthy Lake Huron’, an initiative of
the Ministry of the Environment which
includes a team of environmental professionals coordinating actions aimed to
improve overall water quality along Lake
Huron.
Publications
‡ The development of a South
Georgian Bay Shoreline Stewardship Guide
‡ The development of a Lake
Huron Coastal Bluffs Native
Plants Guide
Stewardship Projects
Grassroots Conservation Efforts
Improving the
Penetangore River
Staff assisted the Penetangore Watershed Group with a tree planting project
during Earth Week. Approximately 100
students from local high schools planted
over 1,000 trees along the Penetangore
River. The Penetangore Watershed Group
planted a total of 7,000 trees across the
watershed.
Staff also assisted the Penetangore
Watershed Group with the planting
of native grasses and shrubs at Sobey’s
stormwater pond in Kincardine, with the
assistance of students from three local
schools. This project will help to increase
the biodiversity around the pond.
Groups & Affiliates
Representative on Lake Huron Centre for
Coastal Conservation
Representative on Stewardship Grey Bruce
Pine River Watershed Initiative Network
and the Penetangore Watershed Group
Grey & Bruce County Alternative Land
Use Services (ALUS)
Wellington County Rural Water Quality
Program
The Huron Clean Water Program
Representative on the Grey Bruce
Sustainability Network (GBSusNet)
Events
Sydenham Sportsman Youth Expo
Grey Bruce Children’s Water Festival
Bruce Grey Forest Festival
WaterWORKS Days, Hanover & Walkerton
Yellow Fish Road
Aquatic Renewal & Stream Rehab Course
Rural Stormwater
Management
Staff participated in a ‘technical working group’ with individuals from other
conservation authorities, ministries and
interest groups for the development of
a computerized Rural Stormwater
Management Model. The purpose of
the model is to help improve the understanding of run-off and how it functions in
the rural landscape. The Ausable Bayfield
Conservation Authority is the lead organization for this project.
In general terms, the model will look
at the quantity of water running off the
land during storm events as well as what
is being carried with it, such as top soil,
sediment, fertilizers, nutrients and other
contaminants. This information will then
be used to implement best management
practices in an effort to improve water
quality downstream before it enters into
Lake Huron. Information gathered on
the Pine River, in SVCA’s jursidiction, (one
of five priority watersheds along Lake Huron) is part of the model. Bruce County
assisted with funding for the data analysis.
Workshops & Seminars
Staff organized a ‘Speaker Series’ in the
fall of 2013. The sessions included experts
speaking on topics such as switch grass,
phosphorous loadings in waterways, pollinators and bees, and the Emerald Ash
Borer.
Stewardship Projects
WaterWORKS Days
Staff from both the Water Management
and Education Departments worked
with the Grey Bruce Sustainability
Network, Brockton and Hanover to
educate high school students about water.
Particpants in Walkerton and Hanover
learned about source water potection,
flood warning, land use planning, water
quality monitoring, benthic (bug) sampling
and more. The day-long event involved
hikes, trips to the Water Pollution Plant,
Water Treatment Plant and the Walkerton Clean Water Centre. Students also
learned about possible career opportunities through the Four County Labour
Market’s S.O.S. trailer. Financial support
was provided from TD Friends of the
Environment (TD-FEF).
Waterlution
Staff partnered with the Grey Bruce
Sustainability Network, Bruce Power
and the Walkerton Clean Water Centre to host a ‘Waterlution Weekend’
where young professionals working in
the environmental field came together to
study water. Walking tours were provided where land use, floodplains, river
information, environmental planning and
water use were discussed.
Alternative Land Use
Services (ALUS)
Staff is represented on the ALUS
committee which was introduced
into Grey and Bruce counties in early
2012. ALUS is a community-developed,
farmer-delivered program that provides
support to farmers to enhance and maintain nature’s benefits on marginal agricultural land.
Two demonstration sites have been
chosen in SVCA’s watershed as potential
ALUS sites. Projects would consist of
tree planting and the establishment of
wetland buffers. The latter with the support of Ducks Unlimited Canada.
Biomonitoring - Let’s
Look at the Bugs
Pine River Focus
Biomonitoring is the sampling and identification of aquatic organisms (bottom
dwelling bugs). Once identified, students
learned how these creatures can help
determine water quality.
Accomplishments in 2013:
Staff assisted Kincardine District Secondary School, the Penetangore Watershed
Group and Bruce Power with a biomonitoring day on the Penetangore River.
Staff assisted various interest groups
with stewardship work throughout the
watershed. One of these groups is the
Pine River Watershed Initiative Network (PRWIN), a local organization that
addresses issues within the Pine River
Watershed.
‡ The planting of over 28,000 trees (23
different properties)
‡ Completion of the McLarty Environmental Study Area (walking trails, a
shelter, signage, a man-made wetland
and outreach activities). This was
funded by the Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation and the Great
Lakes Guardian Community Fund
‡ The planting of willows for a streambank stabilization project
‡ Construction of a large-scale sediment control berm
Forestry
Events & Shows Attended
Annual Forest Health Review
Community Forest Managers’ Annual Meeting
Grey-Bruce Woodlot Conference
Holstein Maple Syrup Festival
Midwestern Agri-Fair
Tree Planting and MFTIP Workshops
Welbeck Wood Expo
Ontario Forestry Association Conference
Affiliates & Memberships
The Grey Bruce Forestry Service (GBFS), is a cooperative program between Saugeen and Grey Sauble Conservation Authorities to provide professional forestry services to landowners
throughout the two jurisdictions.
Bruce Grey Forest Festival
Bruce County Woodlot Association
Grey County Woodlot Association
Ontario Forestry Association
Ontario Woodlot Association
Stewardship Grey Bruce
Ontario Professional Foresters Association
Ontario Professional Foresters Association's
Career Awareness Committee
Ontario Invasive Plant Council
Ontario Maple Syrup Producer's Association
‡ 105,815 trees planted under the 50
Million Tree program where landowners receive a subsidy of approximately 90%
‡ 16,180 trees supplied to 46 private
landowners to complete their planting
‡ 28,300 trees planted for the Pine
River Watershed Initiative Network
‡ Arbour Day Tree Sale (last weekend in April), 200 orders filled for a
total of 6,857 trees and shrubs
‡ A total of 25 MFTIP plans approved
in 2013; 515 hectares (1,273 acres)
‡ Landscape Stock
5 orders
Controlling the
Emerald Ash
Borer (EAB)
In 2013 staff entered into a new program
in an effort to minimize damage caused
by the Emerald Ash Borer. The service
involves injecting a naturally derived product called TreeAzin into the tree which
provides two years of protection from
EAB attack. A total of 40 clients signed up
for the service in the Grey Bruce area and
involved injecting 89 trees.
Managed Forest Tax
Incentive Program
(MFTIP)
SVCA’s MFTIP program is available to
landowners who wish to properly manage their forest properties. They must
own four hectares or more of forested
land and agree to prepare and follow a
Managed Forest Plan. Under the MFTIP
agreement, landowners will have their
property reassessed and classified as
Managed Forest. Not only is this working
towards sustainable forestry practices,
but landowners are then taxed at 25% of
the municipal tax rate set for residential
properties. A total of 25 MFTIP Plans
were created, approved or updated for
landowners in 2013, (1,273 acres).
Conservation
Areas
&
Lands
Working to Provide You with a Better Experience!
Conservation Areas
and Lands
Thousands of people each year visit
SVCA’s Conservation Areas and lands to
enjoy the great out-of-doors. Over 50
km of scenic trails provides visitors with
opportunities such as nature appreciation,
hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
and more.
Many of SVCA’s Conservation lands were
purchased in the 1960’s and 1970’s to
provide recreational opportunities to
residents and visitors alike and to secure
natural areas representative of local
features.
Telfer Wegg
1 Shower stall improvements were
made at Durham Conservation Area.
2 Additional wildlife enclosure fencing
was installed at Sulphur Spring Conservation Area.
3 Two students were hired during
the summer months to assist with
maintenance at non-revenue C.A.s, including Sulphur Spring, Kinghurst, Stoney
Island, Varney, Allan Park, and McBeath
Conservation Areas.
4 New playground equipment was
installed at Brucedale Conservation Area.
5 A new picnic shelter was con-
structed at Brucedale Conservation Area,
(photo above).
6 Donation of two park benches from
the Chesley Saddle Club.
17
Telfer Wegg
Stoney Island Conservation Area
Of particular note in 2013 was the grant of almost $20,000
received from the Ministry of the Environment’s Great
Lakes Guardian Community Fund for trail development and
upgrading at Stoney Island Conservation Area.
Staff and volunteers from the Kincardine Cross Country Ski
Club worked together on a number of new initiatives such as
the construction of new bridges, planting trees, resurfacing
trails, trail clearing and the construction of new boardwalk.
What Our Conservation Areas
Mean to the Local Economy
Information from our camping parks was analyzed to determine local
economic impact (according to the Province of Ontario’s TREIM Model
(Ontario’s Tourism Regional Economic Impact Model).
Attendance
30,000
25,000
Book Your Campsite Online
20,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
Brucedale
11,563
On a Calendar
In a List
On a Map
Saugeen Conservation contracted with CAMIS, (an on-line
reservation system), to coordinate campground reservations for
both Saugeen Bluffs and Durham Conservation Areas. This has
worked out very well for staff and visitors alike.
Durham
27,496
Saugeen Bluīs
25,328
Economic Impact
$2,500,000
$2,000,000
$1,500,000
$1,000,000
Affiliates
Events Attended
Bruce County Trail Association
Bruce County Tourism
Grey County Tourism
Saugeen Country Tourism
Grey Bruce Simcoe Tourism
Trails Ontario
Kitchener/Waterloo-RV Show
Kincardine Summer Festival
Bruce County Heritage Fair
Teeswater Fall Fair
Ripley Fall Fair
$500,000
$0
Brucedale
$632,458
Durham
$2,275,326
Saugeen Bluīs
$1,868,236
Communications
Affiliates
The role of the Communications Department is to raise awareness of Saugeen Conservation, its purpose, programs and services as well as lands, properties and local
conservation initiatives.
Saugeen Valley Conservation Foundation
Conservation Ontario
Member Municipalities
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
Maitland Valley Conservation Authority
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority
Drinking Water Source Protection
Bruce County Museum and Cultural
Centre
Six Area Tourism Associations
Local Media
Watershed School Boards
Lake Huron Southeast Shore Working
Group
Bruce Power
Ontario Power Generation
Over 25 Watershed Businesses
Watershed Interest Groups
Grey Bruce Sustainability Network
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
Over 275 Volunteers
Bruce Grey Catholic District School
Board
Bluewater District School Board
Throughout 2013, communication efforts consisted of a number of different mediums,
depending on the issue and the event.
Visitors Welcome
The Communications Department
combined forces with the Saugeen Valley
Conservation Foundation to open up the
old administration building at Sulphur
Spring Conservation Area for visitor services. Those visiting the park
were welcome to stop in, sit for a coffee,
purchase items in the Wilderness Shop or
inquire about conservation projects and
programming. Thanks to all the volunteers who assisted.
Educational Signage
Initiated by Bruce County Tourism
and funding provided by RTO7 (Bruce
Grey Simcoe Tourism), this department
worked with numerous partners in the
development of new signage along
Saugeen River’s popular canoe route.
The signage focused on increased awareness of the fisheries resource as well as
stewardship activities to ensure its continued sustainability.
Website, Facebook &
Twitter
Work is continually on-going with respect
to social media updates and input. Each
year, social media plays a larger part in
the marketing, awareness and profile of
our organization.
Radio/Television/Print
12 Total Press Releases
12 weeks Radio Advertising for
Events, Functions and Programming
10 Feature Articles in ‘The West Grey
Progress’
140 Newspaper / Media Coverage
(articles) on SVCA or SVCF in 2013
Functions
7 Seminars / Workshops Attended
7 Presentations to Watershed Interest
Groups
1 Volunteer Appreciation Evening
Publications & Promotions
6,000 Campground Guidebook
42,000 Product Distribution (flyers,
placemats, cards)
3 Newsletters (Green Side Up)
Advertising
22 Advertisments in Local Tourism
Publications
Events
3 Major Events
11,120 Attendance (combined), for
annual events organized by the SVCA /
SVCF
127,000 Attendance at shows (organized by others)
10 Number of shows, events, fairs
attended by SVCA / SVCF organized by
others
Tours
3 Evening Conservation Tours (SVCA /
SVCF staff & Directors)
Communications
Conservation Education
DEER
Bruce Power and Saugeen Conservation continued their long
standing partnership in providing curriculum based hands-on
conservation education programming to all 64 schools in
the Bluewater District and Bruce Grey Catholic District School
Boards. Each school is entitled to one visit per school, per calendar year, with Bruce Power funding programming and bussing.
Over 2,500 students from grades 2 to 12 participed this year.
WREN
Saugeen Conservation in partnership with Grey Sauble Conservation presents curriculum based conservation education programming to all students and youth within the two
watersheds. Students from Junior Kindergarten through grade
12 participated in these hands-on programs. Over 50 different program topics are available from snowshoeing excursions
to soil studies to aquatic habitats, invasive species and forest
ecosystems. This year over 2,000 young people participated in
our WREN program.
Flood Waters & You
Saugeen Conservation offers a student safety program each
spring to warn children about the dangers of floods and rising
water levels from snowmelt. This program is run in partnership with the Ontario Provincial Police and St. John Ambulance.
Each organization offers hands-on presentations to elementary
schools across the watershed. This year the message was shared
with 445 students at our watershed schools through 22 presentations.
The Education Coordinator taught a total of 9,145
students for the following:
Bluewater District School Board - 5,556
Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board - 2,402
Wellington School Board - 35
Community Youth Groups - 242
Other Groups - 910
Summer Nature Camp
Wild Encounters, a summer nature day camp run in partnership with the Hanover Parks, Recreation and Culture Department, is a long standing camp offered to local youth aged 8 to
12. This year’s camp ran for one week in August with 25 young
people attending. Participants were very active outdoors with
such themes as fishy business, orienteering, camp craft, outdoor
cooking and more. Each day was designed to get young people
active and explore the natural wonders of our area.
Yellow Fish Road
Trout Unlimited Canada, the lead organization for the Yellow Fish Road(TM)
storm drain marking program assisted
Saugeen Conservation in painting the
Town of Hanover yellow. Seventy-five
students from Dawnview Public and Holy
Family Schools grade 4 & 5 classes along
with 15 Sparks, Brownies and Guides
painted yellow fish near 298 storm drains
to remind everyone that water entering
a storm drain is not treated before it is
returned to the environment. “Rainwater Only” is painted alongside the fish.
In addition, 552 fish door hangers were
distributed in residential and commercial
areas, supported by the Town of Hanover
and the Hanover Lions Club. Plans are
underway to continue throughout the
watershed.
Youth Outdoor Expo
Our sixth annual Youth Outdoor Expo
saw the participation of 75 youth (aged 10
to 17) for a one day introduction to outdoor pursuits. Hosted at the Sydenham
Sportsmen’s Club, participants were invited to try archery, bird watching, critter
dipping, fishing, target shooting and more.
Volunteers continue to work together to
help with this free day of programming.
Grey Bruce Children’s
Water Festival
Bruce Grey Forest
Festival
Bruce Grey Forest Festival held its 3rd
annual festival at Allan Park Conservation
Area in October. The three day event is
targeted at grade 7 students from across
the Grey Bruce area. Over 1,000 students
participated with over 300 volunteers.
Over 30 hands-on, curriculum- based
activity centres were offered with themes
such as forest ecosystems and interactions, forest resources, biodiversity and
species at risk, stewardship and conservation and climate change.
The 13th annual Grey Bruce Children’s
Water Festival hosted over 2,000 grade
four students from across Grey Bruce
during the 3 day festival held in Chesley.
Hands-on activity centres are manned by
over 300 volunteers. Themes included
water protection, conservation, technology, science and changing attitudes.
Funding is provided through a variety of
corporate and local sponsors.
Our Partners
Saugeen Valley
Conservation Foundation
The Communications Department works hand-in-hand with the Foundation and its
volunteers. A win-win situation, programs and events of the Foundation accomplish
a number of objectives, namely public awareness, positive profile and fundraising.
Fundraising Events
Christmas in the
Country
The Foundation’s most popular event, this
is the largest interactive Christmas event
in Grey and Bruce Counties. Held at the
end of November each year, it attracts
thousands of people each year to Sulphur
Spring Conservation Area, just south of
Hanover. In addition to thousands of lights
and hundreds of candle lanterns, activities
take place in each of the buildings on the
grounds, making this a hands-on event
from beginning to end. The highlight, of
course, is visiting with Santa in his very
own igloo along with one of his reindeer,
Vixen.
Old Tyme Maple Syrup
Festival
‡ Over 70 different communities were
represented at both Christmas in the
Country and the Maple Syrup Festival
‡ Over $700,000 in economic returns
to the local community**
‡ Over 11,000 people attended SVCA’s
/ SVCF’s events throughou the year
** Figures obtained through the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport’s TREIM
Formula (Tourism Regional Economic Impact
Model).
This is the largest outdoor maple syrup
event in Grey and Bruce Counties. It plays
host to approximately 7,000 people each
year at the end of March. Attractions are
many and varied. This event is hosted
at Saugeen Bluffs Conservation Area. In
2013 close to $10,000 was raised through
this festival.
Fundraising Programs
Celebration Forest
This program provides individuals with an
opportunity to dedicate a mature tree to
someone special for any of life’s celebrations, including anniversaries, birthdays,
retirements, etc. The trees are located
in a mature forest at the Sulphur Spring
Conservation Area and priced according
to size. Individuals are free to choose a
tree of their own which is permanently
signed with an attractive plaque.
Memorial Grove
This program provides individuals with
a unique way of expressing grief through
the planting of a tree and provides a
source of inspiration while contributing
to the conservation and well-being of the
local environment.
Conservation Tours
Directors, staff and municipal officials are
invited each year to participate in these
evening tours. Three tours were hosted
in 2013 highlighting various conservation
programs, lands and projects, as well as
local attractions across the watershed.
ThinkRecycle
This program encourages the recycling
of used ink and laser cartridges, as well
as cell phones and cameras. In return the
SVCF realizes financial returns.
What Are We Raising Funds For?
Greenock Swamp Trail
This 8,500 ha swamp is the single largest
forested Class 1 Wetland in Southern
Ontario. The trail system will provide
visitors with an opportunity to visit this
unique habitat and learn about the value
of wetlands.
Saugeen Bluffs Conservation Area
Each year the Foundation receives funding
through the generosity of the Sutherland
family in Guelph. Robert Sutherland was
instrumental in obtaining the land for the
park in the 1970’s.
Saugeen River Improvements
Watershed Reforestation
The Foundation has a number of funds to
which individuals can contribute. Donations to this fund assist with canoe and
fishing developments along the river.
There are a total of three Memorial
Groves and six Memorial Forests established throughout the watershed. While
the Groves are fully planted, nearly 200
trees are planted in the Memorial Forests
each year.
Conservation Education
The Foundation assists this program
where over 10,000 children throughout
the watershed participate in over 60 different hands-on, outdoor activities.
Stewardship Efforts
Whether it’s planting trees, assisting with
habitat rehabilitation projects or contributing towards the completion of best
management projects, the Foundation
provides financial assistance.
Behind the Scenes
In every organization there are individuals
‘behind the scenes’ who make it possible
to function effectively and efficiently. Saugeen Conservation is no exception.
No Annual Report with all its aforementioned accomplishments would be
possible if it weren’t for the individuals
who look after the front counter, work
on the Joint Health and Safety committee,
process accounts, work tirelessly at keeping our Conservation Areas maintained
and develop the many tools that all staff
require to perform their jobs successfully.
We applaud their efforts in their ‘behind
the scenes’ initiatives to make our jobs
safer and easier!
Geographic Information System (GIS)
GIS stores, analyzes, manages and presents information linked to a geographic
location. It helps to combine data, patterns and trends that allow information to
be presented in the form of maps, reports
and charts.
Staff are able to access over 150 data
layers through the Manifold GIS software.
All GIS information is stored in a SQL
Server management system that allows
for up-to-date information to be shared
immediately as edits are made.
2013 GIS work included:
‡ Watershed Report Card mapping and
data analysis
‡ Regulation mapping in the Town of
Southampton
‡ Provide mapping for CAMIS online campground reservation system
‡ Provide ongoing GIS support to departments and staff through mapping, data
layer updates/additions and training
‡ Assist the Pine River Watershed Initiative
Network with mapping and GIS support
‡ MFTIP mapping and reporting
‡ Integrate hard copy maps through digitizing and storage in SQL Server
‡ Ongoing edits to base data layers such as
wooded areas, waterbodies and watercourses
Volunteers & Sponsors
Due to the Access to Information and Privacy Act, we are no longer able to publish the names of all the incredible volunteers we have
worked with over the course of the year. Please know that your help and dedication has been greatly appreciated. Many of the accomplishments
mentioned in this report would not have been possible without you.
Groups & Organizations
1st Chesley Scouts
1st Hanover Scouts
1st Walkerton Scouts and Ventures
1st Wingham Scouts and Ventures
Bruce County Campers
Bruce County Community Living Centre, Walkerton
Bruce County Heritage Association, Paisley
Bruce County Trappers and Crappers, Paisley
Durham / West Grey Lion’s Club
Kincardine Ski Club
Steelheader’s Association
In-Kind Sponsors
Bayshore Broadcasting, Owen Sound
Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre, Southampton
Bruce Power, Tiverton
CKNX Radio, Wingham
Chesley Saddle Club
Coffee Culture and Eatery, Hanover
Eastlink Communications, Listowel
Gibby’s Grub, Paisley
Grant’s, Your Independent Grocer, Hanover
Ground Effects Landscaping, Hanover
Hanover Typocraft
Paisley Kinsmen
Robert’s Farm Equipment, Chesley
Ross Young Bus Lines, Tiverton
Shel-run Livestock, Hanover
South Bruce Buckskinners
The Post, Hanover
Voisin’s Maple Syrup, Formosa
Walkerton Baptist Church
Cash Contributors ($1,000+)
Grant’s, Your Independent Grocer, Hanover
John Sutherland and Sons, Guelph
Ontario Power Generation, Tiverton
Paisley Kinsmen
Ross Young Bus Lines, Tiverton
Scotia Bank, Hanover
Cash Contributors (-$1,000)
Bruce Telecom, Tiverton
Bud Rier Chevrolet, Paisley and Port Elgin
Caldecott Millwright Services, Inc., Hanover
Craig, McDonald, Reddon Ins. Brokers, Hanover
Energizer Canada, Walkerton
Genivar, Owen Sound
Hanover Chrysler
Paisley Kinsmen
Sun Life Whitehead Financial Services, Inc., Hanover
Teeswater Concrete, Teeswater
Union Gas, Waterloo
Hope and Leader Insurance, Paisley
James Cavill Fuels, Chesley
Square Deal Neil’s, Southampton
Weiler’s Cleaning Service, Walkerton
Dedicated individuals and financial providers assist
with the following:
‡ Spring park preparations and maintenance
‡ Trail development and maintenance
‡ Development and upkeep of Conservation Area gardens
‡ Assist with special events and conservation projects
‡ Construction and the coordination of displays, shows and special
functions
‡ Filing of conservation related newspaper articles
‡ Administrative tasks and errands
‡ Research and development
Thanks to All Our Special Volunteers!
Each year the Authority and Foundation host a barbeque to acknowledge the
incredible efforts of volunteers and the remarkable support of local sponsors.
Staff
ADMINISTRATION
Directors
Bill Scriven, Chair, Municipality of West Grey
*Luke Charbonneau, 1st Vice Chair, Town of Saugeen Shores
Carl Zettel, 1st Vice Chair, Municipalities of Morris-Turnberry/
South Bruce/Township of Howick
Ron Coristine, Municipality of Kincardine
Dan Kerr, Municipality of Arran-Elderslie
Roland Anstett, Municipality of Brockton
Brian Gamble, Township of Chatsworth
David Kell, Municipality of Grey Highlands
Peter Hambly, Town of Hanover
Wilf Gamble, Township of Huron-Kinloss
Mike Leggett, Municipality of Kincardine
Doug Gowanlock, Town of Saugeen Shores
Diane Huber, Town of Saugeen Shores
Glen Irwin, Township of Southgate
Terry Fisk, Township of Wellington North/Town of Minto
John Eccles, Municipality of West Grey
*Resigned in May, replaced by Diane Huber
Directors
Ed Moric, Chair, Durham
Dennis McCracken, 1st Vice Chair, Hanover
Jack MacLeod, 2nd Vice Chair, Hanover
Laura Molson, Treasurer (staff)
Shannon Wood, Secretary and Manager, Communications (staff)
Wayne Brohman, General Manager-Secretary Treasurer (staff)
Bill Scriven, (ex-officio and Chair of Saugeen Conservation)
Rick Pake, Hanover
Gary Thomas, Hanover
Catherine Dickison, Mildmay
Ron McGhee, Priceville
Darlene Schnurr, Mildmay
Ruby McCraken, Hanover
Wayne Brohman
Laura Molson
Bonnie Sherman
Dale Schaefer
Les McKay
COMMUNICATIONS
Shannon Wood
Catherine Bould
Nancy Griffin
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING Erik Downing
Candace Hamm
i) Cherie Leslie
Jennifer Prenger
Valerie Lamont
ii) Darren Randell
iii) Andrea Oelschlagel
iv) Carolyn Lobbezoo
Paul Elston
David VanDeVyvere
FORESTRY
Jim Penner
Donna Lacey
Rene Kleinecke
LAND MANAGEMENT
Gary Senior
v) Al Leach
Ron McManus
Ron Kaufman
Caralynn Kamerman
Bruce Martin
Brian Grice
MAINTENANCE
vi) Stuart Byers
vii) Robert Burrell
Rick Rowbotham
WATER MANAGEMENT
viii) Dave Pybus
ix) Don Smith
Jo-Anne Harbinson
Martha Nicol
General Manager, Secretary-Treasurer
Manager, Accounting
Executive Secretary
Accounting Clerk
Manager, Information Technology
Manager, Communications
Graphic Artist/Communications Assistant
Conservation Education Coordinator
Manager, Environmental Planning & Regulations
Environmental Planning Coordinator
Environmental Planning Coordinator
Environmental Planning Technician
Resources Information Technician
Regulations Officer
Regulations Officer
Regulations Officer
Regulations Officer
Regulations Officer
Manager, Forestry
Forestry Technician
GIS Co-ordinator
Sr. Manager, Flood Warning & Land Management
Manager, Lands
Park Superintendent, Durham CA
Park Superintendent, Saugeen Bluffs CA
Park Superintendent, Brucedale CA
Assistant Park Superintendent, Durham CA
Assistant Park Superintendent, Saugeen Bluffs CA
Field Services Coordinator
Maintenance Coordinator
Field Services Coordinator
Sr. Manager, Flood Warning & Land Management
Sr. Manager, Water Resources
Manager, Water Resources & Stewardship Services
Water Quality Specialist
i) Left in March, ii) Left in April, iii) Left in October, iv) Left in February, v) Retired in March, vi) Retired in December,
vii) Retired in September, viii) Retired in November, replaced by Gary Senior, ix) Retired in December
Special Assistance Staff: Julie Henhoeffer and Community Living Support Worker, Melissa Henkusens, help each week with
various chores and duties.
DRINKING WATER SOURCE PROTECTION
David Ellingwood
Emily Vandermeulen
Nancy Guest
Project Manager
Program Supervisor
Administrative Assistant
Karen Gillan
*Elly Ward
Alexandra Milanetti
Communications Specialist
Communications Specialist
GIS/Database Specialist
*Left on maternity leave in May
2013 Financial Summary (unaudited)
REVENUE
$3,211,718
EXPENSES
$3,113,732
MNR Capital
1%
MNR
Operating
5%
Land Management
29%
Other Gov't Grants
2%
General Levy
48%
Authority Generated
42%
Special Programs
5%
Capital
3%
Community
Relations
9%
Special Levy
2%
Forest
Management
13%
Administration
13%
Flood Control &
Water Management
28%
A corporate body established in 1950 under the Conservation
Authorities Act of Ontario to manage renewable natural resources on a watershed scale in partnership with its 15 member
municipalities, the Province of Ontario and its
watershed residents.
Our watershed jursidiction covers
4,675 sq. km (1,805 sq. miles), consisting of the drainage basins of
the Saugeen, Penetangore and Pine Rivers, as well as those watercourses along the adjoining Lake Huron shoreline.
In delivering its programs, Saugeen Conservation has
acquired over 8,516 ha (21,000 acres) of land for a variety of
purposes, ranging from the protection of important
wetlands and significant forests to the provision of picnic
areas and campgrounds.
Saugeen Conservation is one
of 36 Conservation Authorities
across Ontario and is a voting
member of Conservation
Ontario.
1078 Bruce Rd. 12, P.O. Box 150
Formosa ON N0G 1W0
Tel. 519-367-3040
Fax. 519-367-3041
[email protected]
www.svc.on.ca
350/03/2014