NOTICE OF MEETING THE ETOBICOKE-MIMICO WATERSHEDS COALITION #3/13

Transcription

1 Eddie Colacchio Chair David Thomas Vice-chair Brian Denney Chief Executive Officer NOTICE OF MEETING THE ETOBICOKE-MIMICO WATERSHEDS COALITION #3/13 The Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2013, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Black Creek Pioneer Village, located at 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, M3J 2P3. See map on next page. Light dinner will be served to members of the Coalition at 6:00 p.m. Enclosed, please find the agenda and other information which will be considered at the meeting. Kindly confirm attendance by Monday, December 2, If you have any dietary restrictions/allergies, questions or require further information regarding this agenda, please do not hesitate to contact Cindy Barr at , extension 5569 or at If you are claiming for travelling expenses, please make note of your mileage and make sure it has been documented on the sign-in sheet which will be located at the registration table on December 5, If you require any directional assistance, or if you are running late the day of the meeting, please call (Vince D Elia). 1

2 Black Creek Pioneer Village - South Theatre 1000 Murray Ross Parkway Toronto, ON M3J 2P3 From Hwy 400 (northbound from 401) Take Steeles Avenue exit. Turn left at lights onto Steeles Avenue. Follow Steeles past Jane Street. Turn right onto Murray Ross Parkway at first light past Jane Street. Look for Black Creek Pioneer Village entrance on the right. From Hwy. 400 (southbound) Exit at Hwy 7. Follow Hwy. 7 eastbound. Turn right (southbound) onto Jane Street. Turn left (eastbound) onto Steeles Avenue. Turn right onto Murray Ross Parkway at first light. Look for Black Creek Pioneer Village entrance on the right. From Hwy 401 Exit at Hwy 400 heading north. Follow instructions above for Hwy 400 (northbound form 401). From Hwy 404: Exit at Hwy. 7. Follow Hwy. 7 westbound to Jane Street. Turn left (south) onto Jane Street. At Steeles Avenue turn left (east) and at the first lights at Murray Ross Parkway turn right (south). Look for Black Creek Pioneer Village entrance on the right. From Hwy 407 Exit at Jane Street. Follow Jane Street southbound. Turn left (eastbound) onto Steeles Avenue. At first light past Jane Street turn right (south) onto Murray Ross Parkway. Look for Black Creek Pioneer Village entrance on the right. Parking Convenient parking is available free of charge. Toronto Transit Commission From the Finch subway station using the Steeles 60 West route, or from the Jane Station using the Jane 35 route. York Region Transit From the York University Terminal take the Route 10 (Woodbridge) bus or the Route 20 (Jane- Concord) bus to Jane Street & Steeles Avenue. From the Vaughan Mills terminal take the Route 20 (Jane-Concord) bus to Jane Street & Steeles Avenue. Walk east from Jane Street & Steeles Avenue. Turn right at Murray Ross Parkway and look for Black Creek Pioneer Village entrance sign on the right. 2

3 Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition Meeting #3/13 Thursday, December 5, :30 9:00 p.m. Black Creek Pioneer Village 1000 Murray Ross Boulevard, Toronto, ON M3J 2P3 *Dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m.* AGENDA 1. Call to Order Page 2. Welcome and Introductions 3. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof 4 Approval of Etobicoke-Mimico Coalition Meeting Minutes #2/13, held on September 19, Presentations (20 minutes) 5.1 Greenbelt Trail: Etobicoke Creek Connection Shelley Petrie, Program Director, Friends of the Green Belt Foundation 6. Items for Coalition Action (60 minutes) 6.1 Peel Region Channel Remediation Strategy Spring Creek Pilot (10 minutes) Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Program (10 min.) PPG Strategy Update and Membership Campaign (10 min.) Schedule of Meetings for Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition 2014 (10 min.) Toronto Water Capital Funding Water, Waste Water, Stormwater Services (10 min.) Watershed Champion Recognition Award (5 min.) Heart Lake Dragon Boat Festival Wrap-up Report (5 min.) Project Teams and Sub-committee Verbal Updates (15 minutes) 7.1 Brampton Etobicoke Creek Project Team 8. Items for Coalition Information (5 minutes) 8.1 Daylighting Jackson Creek Valermo Drive Ontario Trail Strategy for more information visit: 3

4 < 8.3 Enbridge Pipelines Inc., Line 9b Reversal And Line 9b Capacity Expansion Project Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Greenland Acquisition Update New Business and Good News Stories 10 Adjournment 4

5 Item 6.1 TO: FROM: RE: Members of the Etobicoke Mimico Watersheds Coalition, Meeting 3/13, December 5, 2013 Christine Tu, Senior Aquatic Ecologist Peel Region Channel Remediation Strategy Spring Creek Pilot KEY ISSUE To update the Etobicoke Mimico Watersheds Coalition on the Peel Region Channel Remediation Strategy and the completion of the Spring Creek pilot project. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT the staff report on the results and recommendations of the Peel Region Channel Remediation Strategy: Spring Creek Pilot Project be endorsed with support for implementation in Spring Creek; AND FURTHER THAT previously selected members of the Etobicoke Mimico Watersheds Coalition continue to assist TRCA Staff and provide input and direction towards the implementation of the Peel Region Channel Remediation Strategy. BACKGROUND Many sections of watercourses within the Region of Peel have been channelized with concrete lining or other hard bed and bank treatments. While this past approach was intended to improve the conveyance capacity of streams, current knowledge indicates this treatment is detrimental to the overall health of the aquatic system. The end of the design life of many of these channels is approaching with some major failures already experienced. In time, failing channels can lead to uncontrolled and extreme erosion that may place property and infrastructure at risk as well as contribute to local flooding. In anticipation of weather systems increasing in intensity within southern Ontario, the rate of deterioration may accelerate; sections of concrete that were integral in 2012 were severely damaged during the July 8, 2013 storm event. The Region of Peel and area municipalities have responsibilities for stormwater management, the condition of stream channels and/or adjacent and buried infrastructure associated with the channels. In recognition of these responsibilities, Peel Region has provided funding for Toronto and Region Conservation to develop stream remediation and implementation recommendations that are more compatible with current practice: using natural channel design principles, promoting adaptive management, linking environmental health with human well-being, forming partnerships, and achieving system resiliency at the watershed scale. The watershed vision is supported by this project through developing a stream remediation strategy that identifies and prioritizes where naturalizing channels, across the Region, can maximize benefits without additional regulatory flood risk. The first step towards creating this larger strategy is now complete: the evaluation of Spring Creek, an extensively channelized, urban subwatershed largely located in the City of Brampton. A total of nine priority stream sites were identified as having the potential for extensive 5

6 naturalization (see attached map). Three priority stream reaches were then determined in recognition that opportunities between the sites still need to be established (i.e, undertake a fluvial-geomorphic assessment). Part of the site prioritization process involved applying relative weights of importance to different categories of interest (identified through consultation) based on two scenarios: urban and non-urban areas. The evaluation results and recommendations for Spring Creek will be presented to and feedback requested from the Technical Advisory Committee and various stakeholders on December 10, Previously selected member representatives of the Etobicoke Mimico Coalition are scheduled to attend. RATIONALE The development of a strategic approach to naturalizing previously hardened channels will allow for appropriate budgets to be targeted and for pro active remediation of channels. Without the strategy, regional and area municipalities will likely have to continue responding to channel failures after major storm events. This approach will not necessarily reduce risk to infrastructure or maximize the opportunities to improve the ecosystem health, amenity or aesthetic values of the affected stream channels and valley corridors, all of which this project aims to address. Report prepared by: For more information: Christine Tu Christine Tu, ctu@trca.on.ca , ext Vince D Elia, vdelia@trca.on.ca , extension 5667 Date: November 15, 2013 Attachment: Priority Reaches and Sites Urban Scenario, October

7 ATTACHMENT 6.1 7

8 Item 6.2 TO: FROM: RE: Members of the Etobicoke Mimico Watersheds Coalition, Meeting 3/13, December 5, 2013 Cliff Coppolino, Project Manager, Watershed Planning, Peel SNAP SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBOURHOOD RETROFIT ACTION PLAN KEY ISSUE To update the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition on the County Court Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Action Plan (SNAP) Project. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT the Sustainable Neighbourhood Retrofit Action Plan (SNAP) update be received for information; AND THAT Coalition members residing in the cities of Mississauga and Brampton promote the program activities through their networks and participate as appropriate in the implementation of SNAP program within the Etobicoke and Mimico watersheds; AND FURTHER THAT a copy of this report be forwarded to the Brampton Etobicoke Creek Project Team for information. BACKGROUND The SNAP projects represent an innovative model for sustainable urban renewal. SNAPs are plans for measurable environmental improvement and community transformation that align with local community interests and implementation challenges. The plans address the multiple objectives of municipalities, TRCA and other partners. With this in mind, municipal departments and a wide range of community partners are involved in the planning process through a variety of forums. The pilot SNAP was initiated in 2009 in Brampton and a new SNAP was launched in 2012 in the City of Mississauga. County Court SNAP, Brampton Located in the Etobicoke-Mimico creeks watershed, this SNAP is aimed at improving the water management functions of the Upper Nine stormwater management pond and its catchment, a facility identified as a top retrofit priority by the City of Brampton. The project is engaging businesses, residents and institutions in identifying integrated retrofit solutions to achieve water management and biodiversity targets, while achieving other sustainable community objects and creating a stronger sense of place and identity in the neighbourhood. 8

9 The following section summarizes the County Court action plan and implementation projects currently underway. Action Plan The County Court SNAP promotes place making and suburban renewal. Action Plan recommendations include: Retrofit of the aging Upper Nine stormwater pond to address water quality and volume and to serve as a community amenity and natural area destination; Renewal of County Court Park to better suit recreational needs and integrate environmental education features and community gathering spaces; The enhancement of the urban forest; Improvement of water bioretention along the boulevards to provide stormwater filtration and other benefits; A system of neighbourhood rainwater harvesting and storage as an irrigation option for nearby golf clubs; Habitat restoration along the creek valley and its reaches within golf courses; Green parking lot design at the Court House as a model for other pave spaces; and Active promotion of green home renovation and landscape to address energy and water conservation. Expected Outcomes The SNAP was designed to meet or exceed established municipal and watershed management targets. Highlights include: The expansion of the urban forest (from 8 percent to 18 percent of area); Green Home Makeover and residential retrofit program to reduce water (31 percent) and energy use (39 percent); Rainwater harvesting for irrigation (providing 100 percent of water needs; offset municipal water use and water taking from creek); The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (18 percent); and Improved ecoservices which have resulted in 540 tonnes of carbon storage, 214 tonnes of carbon sequestration and 11 tonnes of pollution removal. Current Implementation County Court Boulevard Bio-swales One of the first actions of the Implementation Team was to identify an Action Plan recommendation that could be transformed into a quick-win project with visible impact on the neighbourhood. This exercise led to the identification of the first priority project for 2014, the installation of two bio-swales on County Court Boulevard. Bio-swales are innovative stormwater facilities that reduce stormwater runoff, improve the quality of stormwater entering streams while providing habitat for birds and insects. The planned bio-swales are being planted in late summer / early fall of

10 Coffee Nights As we work towards implementing these projects over the next few years, we want to make sure the residents continue to be engaged throughout the process. Each month TRCA has held informal meetings or coffee nights at a local Tim Horton s in the County Court neighbourhood. The meetings have been a great venue for neighbours to get to know each other, and has allow TRCA to provide an update on SNAP related activities while gathering feedback from residents. Green Home Makeover The Green Home Makeover is a key demonstration of the County Court SNAP. This demonstration is part of a targeted effort to promote residential participation in indoor and outdoor green home renovation. Green Home Program The next phase of the residential retrofit program has taken a more focused approach around energy. This fall TRCA rolled out a home efficiency program designed to save residents money. With help from Royal Bank of Canada and Enbridge, TRCA offered twenty free energy audits to homeowners in the County Court neighbourhood. Burnhamthorpe SNAP, Mississauga Adjacent to the main branch of the Etobicoke Creek, the Burnhamthorpe SNAP has recently completed the first of three phases. Phase 1 titled Scoping and Characterization, examined the neighbourhood and provided a resident profile; citizens sustainability concerns; baseline conditions; retrofit options and synergies; a draft sustainability framework; and community engagement / behaviour change ideas. Phase 1 Report Findings The 432 ha area was developed twenty five to forty years ago and has a population of 21,000. There are four distinct neighbourhoods within the largely residential urban region. Existing conditions for storm water management, water use, natural heritage, energy and carbon, active transportation and health and well-being were collected, and goals and potential actions were created for each. Complementary themes consist of culture and place-making and integrated waste management. Emerging retrofit themes include: Fusion landscaping; Downspout disconnection in low density areas; Energy, water and stormwater retrofits for higher density residential, commercial plazas and schools; Renewal of public spaces; Enhancement of urban forest and natural heritage; Promotion of active transportation, neighbourhood greenways and improved northsouth active transportation routes; and Local food sharing and urban agriculture. 10

11 Phase 2 objectives include: Analysis of retrofit options; Assessment/analysis to identify strategic projects; Develop emerging overall SNAP concept; Engage key implementation partners, community and other stakeholders; Identify strategic behaviours to target; Identify and develop demonstration/engagement project(s) Phase 3 objectives include: Action plan and implementation plan development; Develop final integrated SNAP Action Plan; Engage key implementation partners, members of the community and other stakeholders; Develop and pilot behaviour change strategy for selected behaviour(s); and Develop and promote engagement/demonstration project(s). Current Projects Various activities to engage the residents of the Burnhamthorpe SNAP neighbourhood have occurred to date, including a fall tree planting and litter cleanup and two gardening workshops delivered by the TRCA stewardship team. TRCA is currently in the process of organizing a pilot active transportation program with two local schools in the neighbourhood. The goal of this program is to encourage families to use alternative ways for students to get to school in a way that doesn t involve an automobile. Phase 2 report and further updates will be ready for distribution in January of Report prepared by: For information contact: Clifton Coppolino, extension 5367, ccoppolino@trca.on.ca Clifton Coppolino Vince D Elia, extension 5667, vdelia@trca.on.ca Or visit: Date: November 21,

12 Item 6.3 TO: FROM: RE: Members of the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition, TRCA Meeting #3/13 December 5, 2013 Chandra Sharma, Etobicoke-Mimico Watershed Specialist, and Watershed Management Division PPG Strategy Update and Membership Campaign KEY ISSUE To update the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition on the Partners in Project Green Strategy Update; governance committee structure; and membership recruitment campaign. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT the Partners in Project Green Strategy Update be received as information; THAT members of the Coalition reach out to area businesses and encourage them to become members in Partners in Project Green; BACKGROUND Partners in Project Green: A Pearson Eco-Business Zone was developed by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), the Region of Peel, City of Toronto, City of Brampton, City of Mississauga and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to transform the lands surrounding Toronto Pearson into an internationally recognized community of eco-friendly businesses. The Partners in Project Green Steering Committee was first established in 2008 in response to a recommendation in the approved Partners in Project Green: A Pearson Eco- Business Zone Strategy, Since then, the Steering Committee has completed two very successful terms during which members have provided exceptional support and service to the Pearson Eco-Business Zone. After the successful implementation of the Partners in Project Green strategy for almost five years, the current Partners in Project Green Executive Committee agreed that important directional and structural changes were required in order to improve the effectiveness of Partners in Project Green programming and ensure that its objectives remain aligned with the evolving needs of its stakeholders. PARTNERS IN PROJECT GREEN: STRATEGY UPDATE Building on the current Partners in Project Green vision, existing and emerging competencies, stakeholder consultation as well as a thorough program review and evaluation, the following three prong strategy was devised with the help of consultants at The Innovolve Group and endorsed by the Partners in Project Green Executive Committee to help ensure the program s strengths and resources are more efficiently and effectively leveraged to meet the evolving needs of its stakeholders (Figure 1): 12

13 1. STRENGTHENING effectiveness of program mix in driving sustainable operational excellence and sustainable innovation by focusing resources on four main performance areas: energy performance, water stewardship, waste management, and communications & engagement. 2. STREAMLINING program delivery structure to enhance accountability and execution by evolving Partners in Project Green s governance structure and revising its performance metrics. 3. DEVELOPING new capacity for advancing sustainability innovation and generating new revenues by exploring and developing new self-sustaining revenue streams. To see the complete strategy document, please visit: PARTNERS IN PROJECT GREEN VISION Create the Pearson Eco-Business Zone, an internationally recognized community known for its competitive, high performance and eco-friendly business climate. Figure 1 - Partners in Project Green Strategy Update 13

14 PARTNERS IN PROJECT GREEN GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE Recognizing the need to drive a greater degree of action and accountability, the Partners in Project Green Executive Committee endorsed the implementation of a new governance structure (Figure 2) that incorporates the following major enhancements: Executive Management Committee (Table 1) introduction of the Executive Management Committee, as well as its roles and meeting structure in lieu of the current Executive and Steering committees. Strategic in nature and smaller than the combined Executive and Steering committees, the Executive Management Committee will be established as a subcommittee to TRCA with the purpose of: assisting businesses in the Pearson Eco-Business Zone to improve their financial and environmental performance; retaining and attracting green investment in the Pearson Eco-Business Zone; and, acting as a catalyst for new ideas, innovation, excellence and improvement in the employment lands encompassed by the Pearson Eco-Business Zone. Performance Committees addition of Performance Committees, as well as their roles and meeting structure. Reporting to two Executive Management Committee members, Performance Committees will be established as subcommittees to the Executive Management Committee and oversee more operational objectives. As such, Performance Committees will be task-oriented and formed based on Executive Management Committee priorities to: contribute to the realization of the Partners in Project Green vision and Executive Management Committee mandate; and, contribute to the successful development and implementation of new and existing Partners in Project Green programs within its four new areas of focus. Service Centres addition of Service Centres, as well as their roles and meeting structure. Reporting to the Executive Management Committee, Service Centres will be established as subcommittees to the Executive Management Committee (Figure 2). As such, Service Centres will be task-oriented and formed based on Executive Management Committee priorities to: contribute to the successful development and implementation of new and existing Partners in Project Green self-sustaining revenue streams; and, contribute to the realization of the Executive Management Committee's mandate. 14

15 Figure 2 - Partners in Project Green's Revised Governance Structure 15

16 Table 1 - Current Executive Management Committee Members Business Community 1 Mike Brandt Monteco Group (ONEIA) 2 Brad Chittick Canadian Tire 3 John Coyne Unilever 4 Jonathan Davies General Electric 5 Neil Lacheur Bentall Kennedy 6 Toby Lennox GTAA 7 Trevor Lui International Centre 8 Sean Brady Ontario Power Authority Municipal Representation 9 Councillor Shelley Carroll City of Toronto 10 Councillor Bonnie Crombie Region of Peel 11 Councillor Chris Fonseca City of Mississauga 12 Councillor John Sanderson City of Brampton 13 Learie Miller Region of Peel Conservation Authorities 14 Brian Denney TRCA 15 John Kinkead CVC NEW MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM A 4-month 2014 membership recruitment campaign aiming to increase the number of active Partners in Project Green members was officially launched on November 5, 2013 The new membership program has four levels: Participant, Member, Ambassador and Eco- Solution Provider (Figure 3). Each level includes specific program benefits, commitments, and associated fees (Figure 4). Benefits include: preferential pricing on programs and events, access to member only tools and resources, and facilitated access to other businesses in the network. To see all benefits associated with each level, please visit The introduction and enforcement of slightly higher membership fees was driven by the need to increase business engagement. Although low membership fees may have helped to grow the Partners in Project Green community in the early stages of the program, it may also have diluted the perceived value of the membership over time. In other words, current members may be more compelled to extract value in the associations for which they pay considerable fees because of the financial motivation to obtain a return on their investment. By charging fair value and enhancing member benefits and responsibilities, Partners in Project Green will take significant steps towards the achievement of its performance objectives. 16

17 Figure 3- New Partners in Project Green Membership Levels 17

18 Figure 4 - New Partners in Project Green Member Benefits & Responsibilities Report prepared by: Alex Dumesle For information contact: Alex Dumesle, ext Date: November 22,

19 Item 6.4 TO: FROM: Members of the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition, TRCA Meeting #3/13 December 5, 2013 Chandra Sharma, Etobicoke-Mimico Watershed Specialist, and Watershed Management Division RE: COALITION MEETING SCHEDULE 2014 KEY ISSUE A schedule of meeting dates is proposed for the Etobicoke-Mimico Watershed Coalition. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT the meeting dates for the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on the following dates be approved; AND FURTHER THAT the meetings be held at the Black Creek Pioneer Village, unless otherwise noted DATES #1/14 Thursday, March 20, 2014 #2/14 Thursday, June 19, 2014 #3/14 Thursday, September 18, 2014 #4/14 Thursday, December 4, 2014 RATIONALE A schedule of meetings is proposed to assist the Coalition. TRCA staff did an examination of the dates of municipality meetings to avoid conflict with council meetings within the Etobicoke and Mimico Creek Watersheds. Meeting will be held on the third Thursday of the month quarterly. TRCA will provide meeting space to the Coalition on a regular basis at the Black Creek Pioneer Village. This location is central to the watershed and easily accessible. However, the Coalition is encouraged to have meetings at various locations throughout the watershed. Suggestions for other meeting locations are welcome. Subcommittee meetings will be hosted locally within the Project Team areas. Report prepared by: For information contact: Cindy Barr, , extension 5569, cbarr@trca.on.ca Cindy Barr Date: November 4,

20 Item 6.5 TO: FROM: RE: Members of the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition, TRCA Meeting #3/13 December 5, 2013 Chandra Sharma, Etobicoke-Mimico Watershed Specialist, and Watershed Management Division FUTURE OPTIONS FOR TORONTO WATER CAPITAL FUNDING WATER, WASTEWATER, STORMWATER, INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES KEY ISSUE To update the Etobicoke Mimico Watersheds Coalition on the City of Toronto Water financing. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT a brief overview on the City of Toronto Water financing be received for information; AND FURTHER THAT the Planning and Policy Team collaborate with other TRCA watershed groups to provide input to the City of Toronto on the next round of public consultation on stormwater financing. Background Every day, Toronto Water provides safe drinking water for 3.4 million residents and businesses in Toronto and portions of York; safely treats wastewater from 2.8 million residents and businesses in Toronto and a portion of Peel; and provides stormwater management to protect private property and the environment. In addition to these services, Toronto Water also manages several capital projects related to wet weather flow management including addressing issues related to combined sewer overflow. Toronto Water has indicated that, due to falling water usage, its capital budget faces a projected $1.1 billion funding gap thru As a result, capital projects are at risk unless certain actions are taken. If Toronto Water is to address these capital projects as priorities, then additional funding must be identified. The current capital funding strategy of 9% rate increases ends after 2014 and, without amending the existing financing strategy, these unfunded projects will not be accommodated within the current 10-year projected funding envelope. The alternatives are to: (1) re-prioritize projects, with the result that funded projects would be deferred in order to accommodate the unfunded projects; or, (2) increase revenues so that priorities can be addressed. Next Steps Toronto staff will undertake detailed studies and stakeholder consultation on the funding options during The consultation will include meetings with stakeholders, open houses, and information sessions with the public. The results of the consultation and analysis will be reported to Council as part of Toronto Water's 2015 Capital and Operating Budget submission with recommendations on the preferred option(s) or combination of options, along with an implementation plan for the recommended option(s). 20

21 Background report for more information can be found online at: Future Options and Public Attitudes for Paying for Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure and Services, City of Toronto, October 16, pdf Toronto Water Capital Program Funding Pressures and Financing Options, City of Toronto, September 10, pdf Report prepared by: For information contact: Vince D Elia, , extension 5667, vdelia@trca.on.ca Vince D Elia Date: November 4, 2013 ATTACHMENT: Toronto Water Funding, Don Watershed Regeneration Council, October 5, Funding%20-%20DWRC%20Review%20% pdf 21

22 Item 6.6 TO: FROM: RE: Members of the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition, TRCA Meeting #3/13 December 5, 2013 Vince D Elia, Project Manager, Etobicoke-Mimico Watershed WATERSHED CHAMPION RECOGNITION KEY ISSUE To recognize the work of Etobicoke-Mimico Watershed Coalition and Project Team members. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT that staff report on Watershed Champion Recognition for Etobicoke-Mimico Watershed Coalition term be received; THAT Bob Noble be recognized as the 2013 Watershed Champion for his contribution to Coalition work within the City of Brampton and specifically on the Heart Lake Road Ecology Monitoring Project; AND FURTHER THAT Coalition members nominate candidates from the Coalition and Project Teams who have significantly contributed to the mandate of the Etobicoke- Mimico Coalition. BACKGROUND TRCA has a Service Recognition Award Program that recognizes annually Authority members, CFGT members, members of TRCA s watershed councils, TRCA staff and volunteers, based on years of service. The Watershed Champion Recognition has been instituted by the Etobicoke-Mimico staff to laud the efforts of Coalition members on a regular basis. CRITERIA Nominated individual has gone above and beyond their expected volunteer commitments to contribute to the objectives of Coalition; The nominated individual has provided exceptional leadership on the Coalition or a Project Team and is a positive role model for others; The individual is a good ambassador for the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition and Project Teams; The individual is innovative in getting the word out about the Etobicoke-Mimico Creeks watershed; and The individual champions sound ideas which could positively impact the watersheds and TRCA Living City objectives. 22

23 PROCEDURE If you would like to nominate someone for the Watershed Champion Recognition, please do so one month before the Coalition meeting. Nominations should be ed to Cindy Barr and will be reviewed by the Chair s Committee and staff. The nomination should include a short biography ( words) of the person s contribution. Report prepared by: Vince D Elia, , extension 5237 vdelia@trca.on.ca For information contact: Vince D Elia Date: November 19, 2013 Attachment: Bob Noble - December 5,

24 Watershed Champion Recognition 2013 Bob Noble Date of Award December 5, 2013 Bob Noble, a resident of Brampton and an avid birder, has been a Coalition member for seven years. Bob also sits on Brampton Etobicoke Creek Project Team. In addition to his membership in these groups, he has volunteered his time and participated in several events and projects within the watershed. Recently, Bob has contributed extensive time and expertise to the Heart Lake Road Ecology Monitoring Project. This study commenced in 2011 with volunteers collecting data of wildlife fatalities along Heart Lake Road between Sandalwood Parkway and Mayfield Road where it bisects a Provincially Significant Wetland. Phase II of the study began in March 2013, and as well as field monitoring, Bob managed the project s data and thousands of images associated with project data. Bob s ongoing volunteer efforts in his community have contributed greatly to success in TRCA s goal to educate and encourage stewardship participation throughout its jurisdiction. 24

25 Item 6.7 TO: FROM: RE: Members of the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition Meeting #3/13 December 5, 2013 Joanna Parsons, Coordinator, Public Programs, Etobicoke-Mimico Heart Lake Dragon Boat Festival Wrap Up Report KEY ISSUE Provide an event wrap-up for the Heart Lake Dragon Boat Festival. RECOMMENDATIONS THAT staff report on the 2013 Heart Lake Dragon Boat Festival be received for Etobicoke- Mimico Watersheds Coalition information; THAT the organizing committee for the 2013 Heart Lake Dragon Boat Festival be thanked for hosting a successful event; AND FURTHER THAT members of the Coalition be encouraged to participate on the planning committee for the 2014 Heart Lake Dragon Boat Festival. BACKGROUND On Saturday, September 14, 2013 Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), with the help of the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition members, hosted the inaugural Heart Lake Dragon Boat Festival. The inaugural event had five teams SNC Lavalin, Pratt and Whitney, Dillon Pinto Re/Max Champions Realty Inc., TRCA Fire Breathers and TRCA Team Boyd. Each team was required to pay $750 as a registration fee and encouraged to do additional fund raising. Approximately $3500 was raised. The top fundraising team was SNC Lavalin. The top three individual fundraisers were Jeffrey Pang (Pratt and Whitney), Ange Brooks (SNC Lavalin) and Eddie Colacchio (TRCA Fire Breathers). Funds raised through the event are dedicated to restoration projects in the headwaters of the Etobicoke and Mimico Creek Watersheds. Great White North Dragon Boat provided each team with additional training which is typically not possible at events with greater numbers of competitors. In addition, a fun race was included where interested teams had to paddle backwards for a short distance. All of this added to the atmosphere camaraderie and enjoyment of the day. Teams were assigned race times and then based on times were placed in two divisions. The winners of the Consolation Division and the Championship Division were given medals during a ceremony at the end of the day. The teams that won were Pratt and Whitney (consolation) and TRCA Team Boyd (championship). 25

26 In October, members of the planning team and TRCA staff met to debrief the event. The feedback will be helpful in planning the 2014 event. NEXT STEPS Get details about the event out as early as possible in order to secure teams for the event. Improving marketing and communications to ensure the success of this event. A Request for Proposal (RFP) was sent out November 19, 2013 to contract a dragon boat provider for a period of three years at which point the Coalition and TRCA will re-evaluate the event s success. Report prepared by: For more information: Joanna Parsons Joanna Parsons, jparsons@trca.on.ca , extension 5575 Date: November 14,

27 October 15, 2013 VIA HARD COPY TO FOLLOW Vincent Crisanti Councillor, Ward 1, Etobicoke North Toronto City Hall 100 Queen Street West, Suite C48 Toronto, ON M5H 2N2 Dear Councillor Crisanti: Re: EY Preliminary Report Valermo Drive - Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision Applications We are writing on behalf of the Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Coalition (Coalition). The Coalition is a watershed stakeholder group that works with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to achieve the vision of revitalized creeks and watersheds in our communities. We understand that there is a current application to the City of Toronto for the redevelopment of a former school site (Alderwood Collegiate Institute) located at 300 Valermo in Alderwood, Etobicoke. We are aware that a historic watercourse called Jackson Creek flows (intermittently) through the western part of the property and would like to ensure that this opportunity is used to restore this historic watercourse and retain it within public ownership. Historically, Jackson Creek flowed south of the QEW (now Gardiner Expressway) through Douglas Park, across the Alderwood Collegiate property (it appears to have been shunted to the western boundary of the lot when the school was built) and then south to Lake Ontario. Much of the creek has been buried underground, but a few portions still remain aboveground. Detailed documentation of historic alignment and current conditions of Jackson creek has been provided in the document Lost Creeks of South Etobicoke ( and a short summary is enclosed with this letter (please refer to Attachment 1). TRCA began concerted restoration activities in the Etobicoke and Mimico Creeks watersheds in 1998 when it published the State of the Watershed Report. More recently, in 2011,TRCA published a Technical Update that includes strategic policies and management directions to improve the health of the Etobicoke and Mimico Creeks watersheds, including the lands that drain to Lake Ontario (an executive summary can be found at: P a g e 1 Member of Conservation Ontario 5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4 (416) FAX

28 Day-lighting and restoring creeks that have been buried or degraded is one of our strategic directions, as illustrated on the enclosed map (Lake Ontario Drainage Regeneration Plan). These actions will help to restore environmental quality in our urban neighbourhoods by increasing greenspace, improving the management of water quantity and quality, and enhancing the availability and connection of wildlife habitats and migration corridors. In November 2011 the Etobicoke-Mimico Watesheds Coalition wrote to the local councillor Mark Grimes copying Toronto Planning Staff (please refer to Attachment 2) requesting: that the City of Toronto, through the planning process, acquire a Parkland contribution of the old Jackson Creek property on the west side of Alderwood Collegiate Site; that the Jackson Creek watercourse is acknowledged and enhanced by restoring and daylighting the portions of the creek and that the developer provide funding to assist with the restoration of the creek; that on-site stormwater management measures are incorporated into the new development to reduce impacts of development and paved surfaces; and that opportunities for environmental education are considered through proposed restoration of historic Jackson Creek watercourse. It would also satisfy polices in the City of Toronto Official Plan under The Natural Environment (Section 3.4) that speak to: protecting, restoring and enhancing the health and integrity of the natural ecosystem, supporting bio-diversity in the City and targeting ecological improvements, paying particular attention to habit for native flora and fauna and aquatic species, water and sediment quality, landforms watercourses, and natural linkages between the natural heritage system and other green spaces ; reducing the adverse effects of stormwater and snow melt based on a hierarchy of watershed-based wet weather flow practices which recognize that wet weather flow is most effectively managed where it falls, supplemented by conveyance, then end-of-pipe solutions ; New development will include stormwater management in accordance with best management practices. This should include source control and on-site facilities to manage stormwater where rain and snow fall, and to ensure it does not produce a net increase in stormwater flows or degrade stormwater quality. We thank the City of Toronto for its continued investment in our river valleys and greenspace and we kindly ask that you consider our request as part of the review for this proposed development. As you know, we do not want to miss this opportunity to improve the health of the watershed and allow for public access to much needed green space. Yours sincerely, Eddie Colacchio Chair, Etobicoke_Mimico Watersheds Coalition David Thomas, Vice Chair, Etobicoke_Mimico Watersheds Coalition P a g e 2 Member of Conservation Ontario 5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4 (416) FAX

29 /Encl. cc: Chair and Members, Etobicoke-York Community Council Mark Grimes, Councillor, Ward 6, City of Toronto Chandra Sharma, Etobicoke-Mimico Watersheds Specialist, Toronto and Region Conservation Rosemary Mackenzie, Committee Secretary, Etobicoke-York Community Council P a g e 3 Member of Conservation Ontario 5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4 (416) FAX

30 Attachment 1: Excerpt from Lost Creeks of South Etobicoke: The History and Restoration of the Lost Creeks of South Etobicoke(Present Day City of Toronto) Blog This map shows the lost creeks of south Etobicoke (present day City of Toronto) as they existed in 1811 superimposed over the street grid of today, courtesy of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. I first began the study of these creeks in 1996 when I researched and wrote Toward the Ecological Restoration of South Etobicoke. At the time, I was the President of the Citizens Concerned About the Future Of The Etobicoke Waterfront (CCFEW), a not-for-profit group dedicated to the protection and restoration of the waterfront in south Etobicoke. The report documented the environmental history of the area, and proposed a number of restoration projects. Since that date many of the restoration projects have been accomplished in partnership with the Toronto & Region Conservation Authority and the City of Toronto, while some are still under consideration. Copies of the report are in the circulating collection of the Toronto Public Library. I took up the research again in 2008 when I was asked to write a chapter on the lost creeks for HTO Toronto's Water from Lake Iroquois to Lost Rivers to Low-flow Toilets, published by Coach House Press in At the time of my original research I was only concerned with the area south of the Gardiner Expressway as it is a natural northern boundary for south Etobicoke. Remnants of these creeks still existed in certain locations in south Etobicoke. I had thought that all the post WWII development north of the Gardiner Expressway would have obliterated any trace of these historic creeks long ago. How wrong I was! I was surprised to discover that Jackson Creek still flows above ground for a considerable distance to the north. P a g e 4 Member of Conservation Ontario 5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4 (416) FAX

31 This is the story of the lost creeks of south Etobicoke. The 1811 patent map that lists the original landowners in what is now south Etobicoke provides an excellent view of the creeks that existed at that time, including North, Jackson, Superior and Bonar Creeks. The lives of these watercourses were inextricably linked to the use of the land within their watersheds. Originally covered by thick forests, these watersheds evolved over thousands of years to become a finely tuned and balanced system that produced a steady flow of cool, clear and pristine water abounding in sensitive coldwater fish species such as salmon. While most creeks and streams in the old City of Toronto were buried in sewer lines long ago, many of the original creeks and streams of south Etobicoke survived into the mid 20th century - and some significant portions still exist today! It took some considerable good luck and fortune that they lasted as long as they did. A considerable distance west of Simcoe s new capital of York, the progression of south Etobicoke from forest to agricultural fields, and finally urban development was slower than areas closer to Toronto. However you can still catch glimpses of many of these creeks and streams if you know where to look. I can be contacted at lostcreeksofetobicoke at hotmail.com. P a g e 5 Member of Conservation Ontario 5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4 (416) FAX

32 Attachment 2: P a g e 6 Member of Conservation Ontario 5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4 (416) FAX

33 P a g e 7 Member of Conservation Ontario 5 Shoreham Drive, Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4 (416) FAX

34 Item AUTH7.2 Item 8.3 TO: FROM: Chair and Members of the Authority Meeting #8/13, October 25, 2013 Carolyn Woodland, Director, Planning and Development RE: ENBRIDGE PIPELINES INC., LINE 9B REVERSAL AND LINE 9B CAPACITY EXPANSION PROJECT KEY ISSUE Update on Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's written argument submitted to the National Energy Board regarding the Enbridge Pipelines Inc. Line 9B Reversal and Line 9 Capacity Expansion Project. RECOMMENDATION THAT the written argument Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff submitted to the National Energy Board (NEB) on October 3, 2013, regarding the Line 9B Reversal and Line 9 Capacity Expansion Project, be received; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to report back to the Authority regarding the National Energy Board future decision to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the project. BACKGROUND At Authority Meeting #2/13, held on March 22, 2013, amended Resolution #A27/13 was approved as follows: WHEREAS concerns of Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) related to the Enbridge Pipelines Incorporated (Enbridge) Line 9B Reversal and Line 9 Capacity Expansion Project (Project)are focused on its role as watershed managers, landowners and through its obligations under Ontario Regulation 166/06; AND WHEREAS TRCA has submitted a letter to the National Energy Board (NEB) commenting on the List of Issues that will be addressed by the board; THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT staff continue to consult with affected municipalities and agencies on common issues and concerns; THAT staff initiate a dialogue with Enbridge to review issues of concern to TRCA and determine if an agreement can be reached with Enbridge to address TRCA interests in the Project; THAT staff file an application to participate in the NEB Hearing on or before the April 11, 2013 deadline to participate as an Intervenor, thus ensuring that if an agreement with Enbridge cannot be reached, TRCA can advance its interests through the NEB; THAT TRCA staff be directed to concurrently negotiate with Enbridge and participate in the NEB hearing; THAT if TRCA s interests are addressed by written agreement with Enbridge, that TRCA staff report back to the Authority; 34

35 THAT staff continue to work with Enbridge in the implementation of its Integrity Dig Program to ensure TRCA regulatory requirements are met; AND FURTHER THAT TRCA request that Enbridge release publicly the most up-to-date data on the integrity of Line 9 Pipeline prior to June 1, Intervenor Status TRCA was granted intervenor status in the NEB process. This status allowed TRCA to ask Enbridge for information related to its expressed concerns, and for Enbridge to respond. Through this process, TRCA could have submitted written evidence, or appeared at a hearing with an oral presentation. TRCA worked within the process set forth by the NEB, and chose to prepare a written argument. Throughout the process, TRCA continued to work with municipalities, other conservation authorities and Enbridge itself, to discuss concerns and solutions. TRCA Information Requests to Enbridge Part of the NEB hearing process allows for the intervenors to request information of Enbridge, for Enbridge to respond, and then for the intervenors to ask for additional information based on the response to both themselves, and the response to others. TRCA information requests related to Enbridge's reactive response to spills or leaks, pipeline integrity, in stream and valley monitoring, emergency shut off valves, travel time modelling and an ecosystem based compensation protocol in the event of a spill. RATIONALE As per Authority direction of March 22, 2013, staff initiated a dialogue with Enbridge regarding the review of TRCA issues and concerns. Based on the legal advice from both TRCA and Enbridge representatives, it was agreed that TRCA and Enbridge should manage their discussions within the framework of the NEB process, and not seek an agreement that would be outside of the process. TRCA staff prepared written evidence, met with Enbridge, and prepared its written argument as per the NEB process. Throughout this process, the open dialogue with Enbridge was maintained. Staff has also maintained an open dialogue with other conservation authorities and municipalities regarding issues of common concern, primarily including spills response and management, and pipeline integrity. Enbridge has advised that for security reasons, it does not publicize the precise location of the integrity digs, however this information is communicated to the affected landowners and municipalities when the digs are initiated. Permits are required from TRCA if the digs are located within regulated areas. To date, four permits have been issued by TRCA, three applications are currently under review, and three applications have been screened with confirmation that they are outside TRCA's regulated area. All permits issued to date have been by staff through the routine infrastructure permitting process, and then brought to the Executive Committee for their information. Additionally, TRCA has issued a permission to enter into the Greenwood Conservation Area to undertake an integrity dig. This area was screened by planning staff who determined no permit was required. TRCA Written Evidence to the NEB On August 2, 2013, TRCA filed written evidence with the NEB. The TRCA's evidence focused on: 1. Reducing the environmental impact of malfunctions or accidents. 2. Pipeline monitoring strategies and spills prevention. 3. Spill response and emergency planning, including timelines for response. 4. Maintaining ecosystem integrity. 35