sifton township conservation reserve · 2014. 3. 5. · photograph of es40 treed fen - sifton...

SIFTON TOWNSHIPCONSERVATION RESERVE

STATEMENT OF CONSERVATION INTEREST

Ministry of Natural ResourcesRainy River/Manitou Area

Fort Frances District

February, 2002

John MunroeDistrict Planner

Sifton Township Conservation Reserve / Statement of Conservation Interest

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CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………1

2.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION........................................................................... 32.1 TARGETS .................................................................................................................... 42.2 SURVEY INFORMATION............................................................................................... 6

3.0 VALUES TO BE PROTECTED................................................................................ 73.1 VALUES IDENTIFIED ON THE SITE ............................................................................... 73.2 VALUES TO BE PROTECTED....................................................................................... 11

4.0 MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES............................................................................ 124.1 LAND TENURE.......................................................................................................... 124.2 EXISTING AND PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ................................................................ 124.3 RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES...................................................................................... 134.4 COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES ........................................................................................ 144.5 ABORIGINAL INTERESTS ........................................................................................... 144.6 NATURAL RESOURCES STEWARDSHIP ...................................................................... 14

4.6.1 Vegetation Management................................................................................... 144.6.2 Fish and Wildlife Management ........................................................................ 154.6.3 Landforms ........................................................................................................ 15

4.7 NON-COMMERCIAL CONSUMPTIVE USES ................................................................. 154.8 CULTURAL RESOURCES STEWARDSHIP..................................................................... 164.9 CLIENT SERVICES ..................................................................................................... 164.10 RESEARCH.............................................................................................................. 164.11 MARKETING ........................................................................................................... 16

5.0 IMPLEMENTATION............................................................................................... 16

6.0 REVIEW AND REVISIONS ................................................................................... 176.1 REVIEW AND REVISIONS........................................................................................... 176.2 PUBLIC CONSULTATION............................................................................................ 17

6.2.1 Results of Past Consultation ............................................................................ 176.2.2 Present and Future Consultation ..................................................................... 17

7.0 REFERENCES.......................................................................................................... 19

Site Location Map …..…………………………………………………………………..21


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TABLES

Table Page

1. Background Information 3

2. Summary of Social, Economic and Environmental opportunities 4

3. Level of survey performed 6

4. Values Identified in the Conservation Reserve 7

A1. Permitted Uses App. A

D1. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) - Forest Stands App. D

FIGURES

Figure Page

1. Location of Sifton Township Conservation Reserve 212. Satellite image of Sifton Township Conservation Reserve App. F3. Aerial photograph of raised bog feature - Sifton Township

Conservation Reserve App. F4. Aerial photograph showing distinct game trails - Sifton Township

Conservation Reserve App. F5. Photograph of ES40 Treed Fen - Sifton Township

Conservation Reserve App. F6. Photograph of ES34 Treed Bog - Sifton Township

Conservation Reserve App. F7. Photograph of ES36 Intermediate Swamp - Sifton Township

Conservation Reserve App. F

APPENDICES

A. Permitted Uses ListB. Reconnaissance Survey ChecksheetsC. MapsD. Forest Inventory Stand Listing


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E. Sifton Township Conservation Reserve (C2372) FactsheetF. Photographs

MAPS(Appendix C)

Map 1 Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: BoundariesMap 2 Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: Base FeaturesMap 3 Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: Recreational CapabilityMap 4 Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: EcositesMap 5 Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: Forest CoverMap 6 Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: Surficial GeologyMap 7 Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: Landforms


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1.0 Introduction

On July 16, 1999, the Ontario Government released the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land UseStrategy to guide the planning and management of Crown lands in central and parts of northernOntario. A major part of the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy was a governmentintent to establish 378 new protected areas. This commitment marks the biggest expansion ofprovincial parks and conservation reserves in Ontario’s history.

The Sifton Township Conservation Reserve is part of this significant expansion of Ontario’sprotected areas system.

Conservation reserves are areas of Crown land set aside by regulation under the Public LandsAct, complementing provincial parks in protecting representative natural areas and speciallandscapes. Most recreational (e.g. hiking, skiing, tourism related uses, nature appreciation) andnon-industrial, commercial (e.g. fur harvesting, commercial fishing and bait harvesting) activitiesthat have traditionally been enjoyed in the area will continue, provided that these uses do notimpact on the natural features needing protection. Hunting and fishing is permitted within allnew conservation reserves proposed through Ontario’s Living Legacy.

Commercial timber harvesting, mining and mineral exploration, aggregate extraction andcommercial hydroelectric development are prohibited in conservation reserves.

Sifton Township Conservation Reserve is located in northwestern Ontario in the Fort FrancesAdministrative District of the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, approximately 23kilometres north of the town of Stratton. Much of the surrounding land has been alienated fromthe Crown and consists of private, patented properties. Moreover, the predominant land use onthese properties is agriculture. A highly developed system of roads, akin to those morecommonly associated with that found in more southerly portions of the province, surrounds theconservation reserve. Highway 600 runs north-south paralleling the eastern boundary of theConservation Reserve, approximately 1 kilometre distant.

Sifton Township Conservation Reserve is located within Hills' Site Region 5S and Site District5S2 (Hills, 1961). The area occupies a peneplain that extends southwestward into the adjacentUnited States, and is underlain by the felsic intrusive rocks of a lobe of the Sabaskong Batholith.Surficial geological features are complex, being formed as a consequence of the successiveadvance of two lobes of the Laurentide Ice Sheet across the area during the late Wisconsin period(Bajc, 1991) and periodic inundation by the waters of glacial Lake Agassiz. The latter depositedsediments between and following the advances of the ice margins across the area. The result is acomplex stratigraphy of glacial tills interspersed by glaciolacustrine sediments. The later depositsare rich in carbonates due to their western origins. Deep organic deposits were accumulated inthe shallow depression between the surrounding uplands over the underlying glaciolacustrinedeposits and range in depth from 2 to 3 metres.


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The wetlands and surrounding upland forests captured by the Sifton Township ConservationReserve include representative areas of hardwood-spruce-fir mixedwood, black ash hardwoods,spruce-pine conifer, black ash swamp, black spruce swamp, cedar swamp, thicket swamp, treedbog, treed fen and meadow marsh. The site is focused around a classic raised bog of the crestedridge type considered rare in northwestern Ontario (Noble, 1997). The Conservation Reserveforms part of a series of large peatlands draining westwards to Lake of the Woods and the SiftonTownship site specifically forms part of the headwater area for three significant local riversystems. The natural drainage of the peatlands towards the northeast, south and northwest intothe Splitrock River, Kishkakoesis River and Little Grassy River systems, respectively, hascreated a pattern visible from the air and on satellite images and aerial photographs. The site lieswithin an area that contains species not commonly found elsewhere in northwestern Ontario,such as largetooth aspen, green ash, red maple, basswood, red oak, red-headed woodpecker,loggerhead shrike, black-billed magpies, bobcat, coyotes, porcupines, raccoons, white-tailedjackrabbit and american badger. Eastern white cedar is common throughout the area owing to thepresence of calcareous glacial tills and clay glaciolacustrine deposits. The occurrence of specieshere which are more common further to the south led to designation of the area as part of theGreat Lakes - St. Lawrence Forest Region (Rowe, 1972). Rowe recognizes the Rainy River areaas part of a separate section of the forest region that is influenced by the northward movement ofthe southern forest, the prairie to the west and the northern forest.

The Conservation Reserve does not contain any known rare species, however detailed lifescience surveys would be required to confirm this. Species diversity within this ConservationReserve is not expected to be as great as that for the Nature Reserve class Provincial Parks lyingto the west. Within the Conservation Reserve a well-developed network of trails can be observed,created by the movements of the larger mammals, such as deer, across the area. The denseconifer of the treed portions of the Conservation Reserve provides habitat for boreal species suchas red squirrel, marten and great grey owl. The existence of the Conservation Reserve as anundisturbed island of both treed and untreed habitat in the midst of an agricultural area, coupledwith the range of habitats represented, enhances its value for wildlife, at least in a local context.

The site has low potential for outdoor recreational activities, access directly to and within muchof the conservation reserve being limited, owing to the dominating wetlands. Access may begained, with some difficulty, on foot off of Highway 600.

The purpose of this Statement of Conservation Interest is to identify the natural heritage values ofthe Sifton Township Conservation Reserve, the activities which occur there and, through a set ofmanagement guidelines, outline the activities which will and will not be permitted, as well as themanagement direction for the area (MNR, 1997).


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2.0 Background Information

The Sifton Township Conservation Reserve is an area protected as representative of a raised bogfeature considered rare in northwestern Ontario. Originally recommended as a candidateprotected area under the Nature's Best initiative of the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources(Noble, 1997), the area was included amongst those recommended as a proposed ConservationReserve under Ontario's Living Legacy and approved in the resulting Land Use Strategy (OMNR,1999). It is a roadless, largely undisturbed tract practically accessible with some difficulty onlyon foot. The peatland features and surrounding upland margins, the sites role as a headwater forthree locally-important drainage systems, and a variety of forest and wetland ecosites andassociated flora and fauna all contribute to the Conservation Reserve's role within Ontario'ssystem of parks and protected areas.

Table 1. Background Information

Name Sifton Township Conservation Reserve

Site Region / Site District 5S2Ecosite Class ES 29, 30, 31, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 40, 44, and 46OMNR AdministrativeRegion / District / Area

Northwest / Fort Frances / Rainy River-Manitou Area

Total Area (ha) 712

Regulation Date Not yet regulated.

First Nations withInterest in Area

Treaty Three: Rainy River and Big Grassy First Nations(Note: Although not identified specifically as an area ofinterest, the area is within a larger area which is the subjectof ongoing land claim negotiations. Other First Nations mayalso have an interest.)

OBM 15U 4125/54184

Lat./Long. 48°55'00"N; 94°11'30"W

Basemap 2015410054100

Forest Cover Dominated by black spruce, tamarack and cedar coniferlowlands. Black ash hardwood lowlands are common. Themargins of the wetlands within the site include uplandmixedwoods, including spruce, balsam fir and poplar.(Refer to Appendix D)

General LocationDescription

The Sifton Township Conservation Reserve is situatedapproximately 90 kilometres northwest of the Town of FortFrances, 28 kilometres north of the village of Stratton and 4


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kilometres northwest of the hamlet of North Branch. Thesite includes the wetland and surrounding upland marginsforming part of the headwaters of the Little Grassy,Kishkakoesis and Splitrock Rivers. Lying entirely withinunorganized territory, the Conservation Reserve straddlesthe southern and northern boundaries of Dewart and SiftonTownships, respectively. (refer to Figure 1.)

Access Access can be gained via Highway 600. Limited parking isavailable at the gated entrance to the decommissioned wastedisposal site adjacent to the highway. Direct access is byfoot only, with few trails available. Permission must beobtained from adjacent property owners prior to crossingprivate lands.

2.1 Targets

This section provides a summary of the earth and life science system and values, culturalresources represented and recreational opportunities available or possible.

Table 2. Summary of Social, Economic and Environmental Opportunities

Life Science Representation Although it may be considered primarily an earthscience feature, the raised bog that dominates thewetland features of the Conservation Reservemanifests itself as a distinct ecology and associatedplant community as well. The area containsrepresentation of 11 ecosites classified under theNorthwestern Ontario Forest EcosystemClassification (Racey et al, 1996), including 3upland types as well as 8 wetland types.

The numbers and variety of bird species, bothwaterfowl and uplands species that the area supportsis not well known, with other areas further to thewest which are well-known amongst birders,naturalists and investigators commanding most ofthe local attention. With little open water, littlehabitat for many such species occurring in highnumbers elsewhere is provided by the ConservationReserve. With a predominance of conifer, habitat forbirds is weighted heavily towards those speciesfavouring such forest types. Although not observed


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directly, it is anticipated that some regionallyunusual species can be observed here at least asoccasional visitors, such as red-headed woodpecker,loggerhead shrike, western kingbird, and black-billedmagpies, although these may favour the margins ofthe area adjacent to open farmland.

Although much of the wetland area within theConservation Reserve does not provide ideal habitatfor most mammals, the adjacent uplands, given theirrelative scarcity owing to the surroundingagricultural practices, do provide some refuge for avariety of species. Regionally unusual speciescommonly found in the area include raccoons,bobcat, white-tailed jackrabbit, and american badger.

Detailed plant surveys have not been conducted onthe site. No records of rare species occurring in thearea exist (NHIC, 2001). Species known to occurhere are representative of plant communitiesassociated with both ombrotrophic andminerotrophic bog and fen features, swamps andmarsh, as well as upland forested areas.

Earth Science Representation Deep glaciolacustrine silts and clays and thin glacialoutwash sandy tills deposited over felsic intrusivegranitoid bedrock (Johns, 1988 and Bajc, 1991). Thedominant landform features are very weakly brokenglaciolacustrine plain and weakly broken groundmoraine over bedrock plain (Roed, 1980). Peatlandscontain moderately deep organic deposits, averaging2 to 3 metres in depth, consisting of fibric peatymors(Northland Associates Ltd., 1984). The peatlands aredominated by a sinuous, ridged, raised bog featurethat dissects the wetlands into four distinct drainagesflowing into three separate river systems.

Cultural Resource Representation The site contains no known cultural resource values.Although located within an area of relativelyintensive human use, both currently and historically,the dominantly wetland nature of the ConservationReserve limited historical uses, as it does today.


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Recreational Opportunities The overall recreational potential of theConservation Reserve is extremely limited and isranked as low to very low. Little evidence of currenthuman activity was found. Of the potentialrecreational activities identified, those which areassociated with the appreciation of the life sciencevalues are deemed to be the most viable, althoughthese are somewhat hampered by access limitationsand difficulty. Such activities could include naturestudy, including bird and wildlife viewing andphotography.

The high population of game species, particularlywhite-tailed deer, as indicated by the well-used gametrails throughout the wetland features, would suggestthat hunting might be a viable recreational pursuitwithin the area. However, this activity is also limitedby access difficulties and may be confinedpractically to some of the areas along the marginsand surrounding lands.

2.2 Survey Information

This section provides an overview of the inventories completed, their level of detail and anyfurther inventories required.

Table 3. Level of survey performed

Survey Level LifeScience

EarthScience

Cultural Recreational

Reconnaissance Yes 1 Yes 2 No Yes3

Detailed No No No NoRequirement No No No No

1 Noble, 1997; Munroe, 2002a.2 Munroe, 2002b3 Munroe, 2002c

The reconnaissance surveys which have been completed, in conjunction with other values andearth/life science records for the area (OMNR, 2002) are deemed sufficient in scope and detail todetermine management direction for the conservation reserve. More detailed surveys may beundertaken at a later time if circumstances change.


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3.0 Values to be Protected

This section provides a description of the key natural heritage values on the site (Appendices)and their condition relative to past resource use and management activities. It also addresses thevalues' sensitivity to future land use and management activities.

3.1 Values Identified in the Conservation Reserve

Table 4. Values identified in the conservation reserve

Life Science Identified ecosites within the Conservation Reserve include:

• ES29 Hardwood-Fir-Spruce Mixedwood: Deep, Fresh, FineLoamy-Clayey Soil

• ES30 Black Ash Hardwood: Fresh, Silty-Clayey Soil• ES31 Spruce-Pine / Feathermoss: Moist, Silty-Clayey Soil• ES34 Treed Bog: Black Spruce / Sphagnum: Organic Soil• ES35 Poor Swamp: Black Spruce: Organic Soil• ES36 Intermediate Swamp: Black Spruce/Tamarack: Organic

Soil• ES37 Rich Swamp: Cedar: Organic Soil• ES38 Rich Swamp: Black Ash: Organic-Mineral Soil• ES40 Treed Fen: Tamarack-Black Spruce / Sphagnum: Organic

Soil• ES44 Thicket Swamp: Organic-Mineral Soil• ES46 Meadow Marsh: Organic-Mineral Soil

A map displaying the distribution of the represented ecosites iscontained in Appendix C.

Those parts of the Conservation Reserve supporting tree growthinclude discreet areas dominated by black spruce, tamarack, easternwhite cedar, black ash, and aspen. The calcareous tills andglaciolacustrine deposits common in the area support the occurrenceof cedar throughout the site, both as a dominant and componentspecies. The age of the forest cover averages 80 to 100 years, withthe oldest trees represented by the cedar dominated stands that areestimated to be up to 140 years of age. The lowland black spruce inthe western portions of the site tends to be somewhat older at 110years than those found in the eastern half. The latter situation may bethe consequence of historical fire in the eastern portions where bogconditions predominate, while in the west the tendency towards


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conifer swamp may have limited fire. Appendix C contains a forestcover map and Appendix D contains stand listings for theConservation Reserve.

The existence of the Conservation Reserve as an undisturbed islandof both treed and untreed habitat in the midst of an agricultural area,coupled with the range of habitats represented, enhances its value forwildlife, at least in a local context. Perhaps most visible amongst thespecies is represented by the large local white-tailed deer population.Deer are frequently observed crossing the surrounding roads andhighway travelling to and from the Conservation Reserve. Within theConservation Reserve a well-developed network of trails can beobserved, created by the movements of the larger mammals, such asdeer, across the area.

The vegetation of the Conservation Reserve is typical of the ecositesrepresented, with no rare plants having been documented for thissite. No detailed survey of plant species has been undertaken for thesite.

Earth Science Extensive areas of wetlands and deep overburden make access to anddirect observation of geological features difficult, and much of theinformation is therefore inferred.

Located within the westernmost portion of the Wabigoonsubprovince and the Rainy River area, Sifton TownshipConservation Reserve lies upon the felsic igneous rocks of a lobe ofthe Sabaskong batholith, north of the mafic metavolcanic rocks ofthe Rainy River greenstone belt. The rock in this location consist ofa foliated granodiorite with varying percentages of hornblende andbiotite with dikes of aplite and pegmatite (Johns, 1988).

Located on the northwestern edge of a peneplain extending intoadjacent Minnesota, the Conservation Reserve contains landformfeatures representing very weakly broken glaciolacustrine plain andweakly broken bedrock plain. Surficial deposits are dominated bysandy glaciolacustrine silts and clays, with occurrences of groundmoraine tills over bedrock, particularly along the southwesterlymargins of the wetlands. The tills and lake sediments nearest thesurface are of western origin and contain calcareous material, havingbeen deposited by the last advance of the Keewatin glacier and thelast high stand of glacial Lake Agassiz in late Wisconsin times.

Quaternary stratigraphy is complex with deposits estimated to range


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from 10 to 20 metres in depth in this part of the Rainy River Area(Bajc, 1991).

Recent deposits are represented by the peat that occupies much ofthe shallow basin of the Conservation Reserve. These deposits havebeen measured at 2 to 3 metres in depth over the silty-clayeyglaciolacustrine deposits (Northland Associates Ltd., 1983 andMunroe, 2002a). The peatlands tend to be ombrotrophic, orinfluenced primarily by rainfall in the east, and increasinglyminerotrophic, or influenced by seepage of mineral-laden watersthrough the peat, towards the west.

The wetlands of the Conservation Reserve are subdivided into fourdrainage basins separated by low ridge crests of raised, treed bog.The two southern basins drain into tributaries of the KishkakoesisRiver system, the nortwestern basin into the Little Grassy Riversystem and the northeastern basin into the Splitrock River system.

Cultural The area contains no identified cultural values. The only significanthuman influence identified is an old cleared survey line marking theboundary between Sifton and Dewart Townships, which is evidentfrom the air but difficult to discern on the ground. One old trailenters the site from private lands to the south but is grown-in.

Aboriginal The area contains no identified aboriginal values.

Tourism Although the potential exists for commercial tourism based uponlow-impact activities such as birdwatching and nature photography,difficulties associated with access limit such potential. Suchoperations may be more viable if considered within the context ofthe system of wetland-centred parks and protected areas in the RainyRiver area, including Cranberry Lake, Spruce Islands, AgassizPeatlands and Sable Islands Provincial Parks.

RecreationalFishing

The Conservation Reserve contains little open water and thereforehas no recreational fishing potential.

Recreational/CommercialHunting

Hunting potential for deer and upland birds is judged to be good,although access is a serious limitation. No significant evidence ofhunting activity within the site has been found. Huntingopportunities around the periphery of the Conservation Reserve maybe better, although landowner permission would be required in someinstances to cross private property. The area contains portions of twoBear Management Areas (BMA's), FF 9A-15 and 9A-33. Again, noovert signs of bear hunting activity have been observed. The closureof the waste disposal site immediately to the east of the ConservationReserve may limit the number of bears attracted to the area, and


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access is once again a limiting factor.

Mining Due primarily to the depth of overburden in the area that hampersexploration coupled with the removal of the area of the conservationreserve from staking activities and the preponderance of privatelands in the area surrounding the conservation reserve, littlehistorical exploration has occurred. The area surrounding theconservation reserve contains no active mining claims, withexploration in the area tending to focus on the area of the RainyRiver Greenstone Belt to the southeast, where active claims do exist.The area is ranked as low in terms of mineral potential (Springer,1978).

Aggregate The area is generally low potential for aggregate extraction, withdeeper deposits tending to be glaciolacustrine silts and clays oroccasional shallow tills over bedrock. (Roed, 1980) No aggregatepits currently exist in proximity to the Conservation Reserve.

Forest Harvest Apart from some periodic logging of Crown parcels surrounding theConservation Reserve, no forest harvesting has been documented inthis area. .

Trapping The Conservation Reserve contains portions of two traplines.Trapline FF02-1890 lies within the southern portion of the site, andregistered trapline FF02 occupies the northern portion in DewartTownship. No evidence of trapping was observed within the site.

Wild Rice Commercial wild rice harvesting currently does not occur within thisconservation reserve, nor have stands been identified.

Wildlife Commercial game species, such as bear and deer can be foundthroughout this area. No known nesting sites have been identifiedwithin the area. The forest provides habitat for species favouringmature conifer forest. Beaver are limited to areas near the peripheryof the wetland features where distinct watercourses develop.

Commercial Fish No commercial fishing for human consumption exists within theconservation reserve. Commercial baitfshing does occur, with thearea forming parts of baitfish blocks FF-10-004 and FF-10-005, andwill be permitted to continue. The latter activity is confined to theperiphery of the area where distinct watercourses develop.


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3.2 Values Protection

The intent of this Statement of Conservation Interest is to protect the identified values byestablishing management guidelines for existing and potential uses in this area, given the level ofpast disturbance and the nature of the existing features. Uses and activities which are permitted,not permitted or conditionally permitted are governed by the policies applying to ConservationReserves as stated in the Land Use Strategy and existing Conservation Reserve policy. Any newuses, and commercial activities associated with them, will be considered on a case by case basis,and must pass a test of compatibility to be acceptable. Compatibility is normally determinedthrough a planning process. The policies outlined in this Statement of Conservation Interest donot supersede any Aboriginal or treaty rights that may exist, or other legal obligations.

Forest Values

The upland forest types and ecosites identified surrounding the primary wetland features of theConservation Reserve will continue undergoing natural successional changes already initiated,towards a spruce-fir forest without the advent of a major disturbance such as. fire. The easternwhite cedar forest and black ash lowland ecosites are not expected to change, given theautecology of the primary species. The treed and untreed peatland features are also likely toremain unchanged in the absence of natural disturbances such as fire. Human activities thatrepresent the greatest potential impacts on forest structure, such as logging, mining andhydroelectric development, will not be permitted. However, sustaining these values in the long-term may require development of a vegetation management plan and natural disturbance strategy.

Activities occurring on adjacent lands surrounding the Conservation Reserve are not expected tohave a significant impact on the ecology of the site, with one possible exception. Unlike otherwetland areas in the Rainy River area, drainage of adjacent lands through ditching has beenlimited in this location. With the site representing the headwaters of three developed drainagesystems, the area is perhaps better drained naturally than those are elsewhere, precluding the needfor ditching. Nevertheless, should such projects be proposed or undertaken they would constitutea potential cause for concern relative to the possible impacts on the water table and dependentecology within the protected area. Should such occasion arise, the active co-operation ofsurrounding landowners will be necessary to limit such impacts.

Recreational and Commercial Values

The Sifton Township Conservation Reserve contains a significant wetland feature that may holdinterest for amateur and professional naturalists. There is the potential for a number of lowimpact, non-consumptive recreational activities such as wildlife viewing and photography,although access difficulties are expected to continue to limit use.

The existing traplines, baitfish harvest areas and bear management areas within the conservationreserve will remain and existing uses associated with them allowed to continue. New operations


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may be considered, subject to the "test of compatibility". Normal application of controls such asquotas and seasons are designed to ensure that affected wildlife populations remain sustainable.Use of existing trails will be allowed to continue. Proposals for the development of new trails topermit access for these activities will be considered carefully to ensure that the values of theConservation reserve are protected. Recreational hunting will be permitted, although it isexpected that access limitations will restrict this activity to the margins of the area and the levelof use may remain relatively low.

Tourism Values

Access to this area is on foot from surrounding lands. Some old trails and logging roads aroundthe margins do exist, but are not maintained and often involve crossing private lands. Littleevidence of recent human activity within the site can be found. Some potential may exist todevelop tourism based upon low-impact activities such as birdwatching and nature photography.Such operations may be more viable if considered within the context of the system of wetland-centred parks and protected areas in the Rainy River area, including Cranberry Lake, SpruceIslands, Agassiz Peatlands and Sable Islands Provincial Parks.

4.0 Management Guidelines

4.1 Land Tenure

The Sifton Township Conservation Reserve consists entirely of Crown land and no disposition ofCrown land by sale is permitted within the conservation reserve. The surrounding and adjacentlands consist of a mixture of private and Crown lands. The main wetland features for which theConservation reserve was proposed are entirely captured within the boundaries of the site as theynow exist. No expropriation or purchasing of private land for inclusion in the conservationreserve is planned. New leases or land use permits may be considered for approved activities,subject to the "test of compatibility", but will generally be discouraged within the ConservationReserve.

4.2 Existing and Proposed Development

No mining development or mineral exploration activities will be permitted within theconservation reserve.

No roads currently exist within the area and no new roads will be permitted.

No commercial aggregate permits exist for the area of the conservation reserve and no newpermits will be issued. Aggregate extraction will not be permitted.


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No logging operations or facilities, nor hydroelectric facilities or structures exist within the areaand no new development will be permitted.

No cabins or other facilities associated with commercial bear management, baitfish harvesting orfur harvesting on the site exist, and no new facilities will be permitted. Existing trails used inconjunction with these activities may continue to be used, but new trails will only be consideredsubject to the "test of compatibility", and will be discouraged within the wetland features of thesite. New fur harvesting or commercial baitfishing operations can be considered, subject to the"test of compatibility".

Few trails suitable for recreational purposes, such as hiking, skiing, snowmobiling or horsebackriding, exist within the Conservation Reserve. The development of new trails or the rehabilitationof existing trails will be subject to further planning if considered desirable. Under suchcircumstances planning will favour the upland portions of the site, and avoid the wetland featuresin locating trails.

No private recreational camps currently exist within the Conservation Reserve and no new campswill be permitted.

The cleared boundary between Dewart and Sifton Townships should no longer serve a practicalpurpose within the Conservation reserve and will be allowed to revegetate.

4.3 Recreational Activities

Hunting will be allowed to continue within the conservation reserve, subject to applicableregulations. The use of motorized and non-motorized means of transport will be permitted butrestricted to existing trails. New trails may be permitted, subject to the "test of compatibility",and will be discouraged within the wetland features of the site. Other recreational low impactactivities and non-motorized recreational travel such as skiing and hiking are permitted.

The use of mechanized means of transport such as snowmachines and all-terrain vehicles off ofexisting trails will not be permitted, except for direct retrieval of game in accordance withexisting Conservation Reserve policy.

Existing Ministry policies and regulations relating to Crown land camping will apply. Existingpolicies relative to boat and equipment caches will also apply. The site contains no identifiednavigable waters, nor identified campsites.

Sport fishing is a permitted use within the Conservation Reserve, however the lack of suitableaquatic habitat for game species within the site makes this activity unlikely.


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Low-impact recreational activities such as nature appreciation, photography and wildlife viewingare permitted and will be encouraged.

4.4 Commercial Activities

Activities associated with current traplines and baitfish harvesting areas in the conservationreserve will be permitted to continue in accordance with existing policies and regulations. Newoperations may be considered, subject to a test of compatibility.

Existing bear management areas will be permitted to continue in accordance with existingpolicies and regulations. No new operations are permitted.

No commercial tourism facilities, such as outpost cabins, resorts or lodges, exist within theConservation Reserve. New commercial tourism facilities within the Sifton TownshipConservation Reserve may be considered, unless there are significant demonstrated conflicts,subject to review through the planning process as set out in the Draft Class EnvironmentalAssessment for Ontario's Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves. Existing Ministry policiesand regulations relating to Crown land camping will apply. Existing policies relative to boat andequipment caches will apply.

No commercial food fisheries operations exist within the Conservation Reserve, and given therelative absence of open waters, are unlikely to be proposed.

Commercial wild rice harvesting does not occur within the conservation reserve, nor have anysignificant occurrences of wild rice been identified. No other commercial food harvesting (i.e,blueberries) activities have been identified. Any new activities will require the writtenauthorization of the District Manager, be subject to a test of compatibility and alternativelocations will be preferred.

4.5 Aboriginal Interests

The creation of this conservation reserve will not affect any Aboriginal or treaty rights.Consultation with interested First Nations towards identifying cultural and spiritual values withinthe area will continue.

4.6 Natural Resources Stewardship

4.6.1 Vegetation Management

The Sifton Township Conservation Reserve will be managed to allow natural processes tocontinue. Suppression of fire will occur in accordance with existing MNR fire suppressionstrategies. Prescribed burning may be carried out to simulate natural fire, subject to a planningprocess. The development of a vegetation management plan for the area in the context of regional


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fire strategies is recommended over time. Efforts will be made to monitor any potential orproposed drainage projects near the conservation Reserve and limit the impacts on the wetlandfeatures through seeking the active co-operation of landowners.

Control of insects and diseases within the Conservation Reserve will be carried out, if required,in accordance with existing Provincial programs and policies. All such proposed activities will bereviewed carefully to ensure that the values of the Conservation reserve are protected. Control ofnon-native species will be considered a priority.

The use of pesticides and other control agents within the Conservation Reserve, should suchmeasures be considered desirable, will favour biological controls.

4.6.2 Fish and Wildlife Management

Current Acts, Regulations and Policies will apply. The lands and waters of the conservationreserve will be included in scheduled fish and wildlife management programs and activities. Theterrestrial and wetland ecosites of the conservation reserve will be considered in other resourcemanagement planning as a component of the wildlife habitat in the broader landscape. Theintroduction of non-native species will not be permitted.

4.6.3 Landforms

Activities that tend to impact landforms, such as aggregate extraction and road construction, willnot be permitted.

4.7 Non-Commercial Consumptive Uses

The consumptive uses of fish and wildlife resources within the Conservation Reserve arediscussed under Section 4.3, and commercial consumptive uses under Section 4.4.

Non-commercial food gathering activities such as berry picking for personal use will bepermitted to continue. Plant collection except for approved research or inventory purposes willnot be permitted.

Non-commercial harvesting of traditional forest products such as fuelwood, fenceposts or polesfor personal use will not be permitted within the Conservation Reserve. The lack of accesscoupled with ample availability of such material elsewhere on Crown and private lands, and thelack of isolated private inholdings within the site combine to render such uses both undesirableand unnecessary.


16

4.8 Cultural Resources Stewardship

The location and specific details regarding cultural heritage resources may be kept confidential inorder to ensure protection of such values and sites. No cultural heritage values have beenidentified within the site to date.

4.9 Client Services

The permitted uses and recognized values of this conservation area will be made known to thepublic through public consultation associated with the Land Use Strategy, the site regulationprocess, and materials, including this Statement of Conservation Interest, available throughGovernment Information Centres. No significant advertising campaigns for the Sifton TownshipConservation Reserve are planned at this time.

Future planning for the conservation reserve will be in accordance with the Class EnvironmentalAssessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves, which may involve formal publicconsultation.

4.10 Research

Research activities which do not detrimentally affect the values which the conservation reserve isdesigned to protect will be encouraged, but will require the written authority of the DistrictManager.

4.11 Marketing

No marketing associated specifically with this Conservation Reserve for tourism and recreationalpurposes is planned at this time.

5.0 Implementation

The Sifton Township site will be regulated as a Conservation Reserve under the Public LandsAct, in 2002, following the process set out in the Ontario’s Living Legacy Protected AreasRegulation Implementation Manual (MNR, 2000).

The Fort Frances District, Rainy River/Manitou Area of the Ministry of Natural Resources willbe responsible for implementing the management policies and guidelines for the area. All MNRResource Management Plans or Land Use Plans have been revised as necessary to exclude timberharvesting and other non-permitted activities from this area. All stakeholders and clients will beinformed through mail and other consultation of the changes that will take affect. The RainyRiver/Manitou Area will have primary responsibility in administering the policies and guidelines.


17

The primary role is providing public information and monitoring of compliance to the policiesand guidelines.

6.0 Review and Revisions

6.1 Review and Revision Process

The Sifton Township Conservation Reserve Statement of Conservation Interest will be reviewedon an ongoing basis and revised as needed.

Revisions to the Sifton Township Statement of Conservation Interest will be subject to therequirements as specified in the Draft Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parks andConservation Reserves. Significant changes as defined under the Class EA will involve a publicconsultation process and approval from the District Manager and Regional Director of theMinistry of Natural Resources.

6.2 Public Consultation

6.2.1 Past Consultation

The Sifton Township site was part of the consultation process beginning early in the land useplanning exercise, as one of the initial sites proposed for protection. Consultation associated withthe land use planning initiative occurred at a number of stages in the process:

• Lands For Life round table consultation June 1997- July 1998• Ontario Forest Accord 1999• Ontario’s Living Legacy round table discussions 1999• Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy 1999• OLL Site Regulation Public Consultation Process 2001.

6.2.2 Present and Future Consultation

Summary of the 2001 Site Regulation Process:

• Mailouts were sent to adjacent property owners and other affected and interested parties andagencies by the District Manager, and newspaper adds placed in local and regional media,informing of the regulation process and inviting comments on the proposed boundaries.

• A concern was received from an adjacent property owner over any restrictions on hunting inthe new protected area. It was explained that hunting was a permitted use in ConservationReserves and the protected area was designed primarily to protect vegetation and earthscience features, with the main restrictions applying to mining and timber extraction. Mostother uses would continue to be allowed providing they did not negatively impact the featuresthat the Conservation Reserve was specifically intended to protect. A second concern was


18

raised regarding the potential for the area to be "upgraded" to a more restrictive type ofprotected area (i.e. Provincial Park) and it was explained that the Conservation Reservedesignation was not an interim step and that the process for redesignated such an area as aProvincial Park would require the same process as designated any area as a new park.

• Recommendations: Based on the input received, no revisions to the boundaries of the sitewere deemed necessary.

(More detailed Consultation Documentation is available on file at the Fort Frances Districtoffices of the Ministry of Natural Resources)

The policies that form the basis of this Statement of Conservation Interest are specified in theapproved Ontario's Living Legacy Land Use Strategy. A policy statement defining the land useintent and specific policies applicable to this Conservation Reserve may also be found posted onthe internet as part of the Land Use Atlas (under preparation, expected completion 2002). Shouldrevisions to the policies applying to this Conservation Reserve be required over time, suchrevisions will be subject to the provisions of the Land Use Strategy regarding amendments.


19

7.0 References

Bajc, A. F. 1991. Quaternary Geology, Fort Frances - Rainy River Area. Ontario GeologicalSurvey. Open file report 5794, 170p. accompanied by Maps P.3065, P.3137 and P.3138.

Hills, G.A. 1961. The Ecological Basis for Land-Use Planning. Ont. Dept. Lands and Forests.Toronto, Ont. Res. Rep. No. 42. 63 pp.

Johns, G.W. 1988. Precambrian Geology of the Rainy River Area, District of Rainy River.Ontario Geological Survey. Map P.3110. Geological series-preliminary map. scale 1:50,000

Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 1997. Conservation Reserves Policy and Procedure. PL3.03.05.

Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 2000. Protected Areas Regulation ImplementationManual; Internal Document.

Munroe, J. 2002a. Sifton Township Conservation Reserve: Life Science ReconnaissanceInventory Report. Ministry of Natural Resources, Fort Frances District.

Munroe, J. 2002b. Earth Science Reconnaissance Inventory Report: Sifton TownshipConservation Reserve. Ministry of Natural Resources, Fort Frances District.

Munroe, J. 2002c. Recreation Inventory Report – Sifton Township Conservation ReserveMinistry of Natural Resources, Fort Frances District.

NHIC 2001. Natural Heritage Information Centre Database. Ontario Ministry of NaturalResources. Page.<http://mnrweb.mnr.gov.on.ca/nhic/nhic.cfm>. Accessed 2001, Aug. 23.

Noble, T. 1997. 5S2 Sifton Tp Headwater Peatland. Preliminary gap analysis report. OntarioMinistry of Natural Resources, Northwest Region. 3 pp.

Northland Associates Ltd. 1984. Peat and Peatland Evaluation of the Rainy River Area. OntarioGeological Survey. vol. I., 136 pp.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) 1996. Forest Resources Inventory - Fort FrancesForest. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Digital G.I.S. database, updated to year 2000.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) 1999. Ontario's Living Legacy - Land UseStrategy. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Toronto, Ont. 136 pp.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 2002. Natural Resources Values InformationSystem (NRVIS). Fort Frances District.


20

Racey, G.D., Harris, A.G., Jeglum, J.K., Foster, R.F. and Wickware, G.M. 1996.Terrestrial and Wetland Ecosites of Northwestern Ontario. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour., NorthwestSci. & Technol. Field Guide FG-02. 94 pp. + Append.

Roed, M.A. 1980. Rainy Lake Area (NTS 52C/NW). District of Rainy River, Ontario.Geological Survey, Northern Ontario Engineering Geology Terrain Study 53. 14p. Accompaniedby Map 5069, scale 1:100,000.

Rowe, J.S. 1972. Forest Regions of Canada. Dept. Environ., Can. For. Serv. Ottawa, Ont. Publ.No. 1300 172 pp.

Springer, J. 1978. Ontario Mineral Potential, International Falls-Roseau Sheet, District of RainyRiver. Ontario Geological Survey Prelim. Map P.1523, Mineral Deposits Ser., Scale 1:250,000.

#

#

#

#

##

#

#

#

#

#

#

DrydenKenora

Ignace

Hudson

N

RedLake

Keewatin

EarFalls

Atikokan

Armstrong

Thunder Bay

Rainy River

Sioux Lookout

New Osnaburgh

Jaffray Melick

#Fort Frances

RED LAKE

THUNDER BAY

DRYDEN

KENORA

FORT FRANCES

Lake Nipigon

Lac Seul

Lake of the Woods

Rainy Lake

Lake St. Joseph

Eagle LakeShoal Lake

Minnitaki Lake

Sturgeon Lake

Sand Lake

Dog Lake

Smoothrock Lake

Lac des Mi lle Lacs

Umfreville Lake

Savant Lake

Pashkokogan Lake

Kakagi Lake

Marmion Lake

Lower Manitou

Seseganaga Lake

Whitewater Lake

Wabigoon LakeDryberry Lake

Pickeral Lake

Northern Light Lake

Clay Lake

Lake la Croix

White Otter Lake

Sydney Lake

Atikwa Lake

Bell Lake

Rowan Lake

Indian Lake

Basswood Lake

Dinorwic Lake Shikag Lake

Wapikaimaski Lake

Press Lake

Wabakimi Lake

Quetico Lake

Kawnipi Lake

Whiteclay Lake

Lake of Bays

Upper Manitou

Shebandowan Lake

Pakashkan Lake

Eltrut Lake

Agnes Lake

Arrow Lake

Pipestone Lake

Muskeg Lake

Sowden Lake

Kawaweogama Lake

Bluf fy Lake

BlackSturgeon Lake

Silver Lake

Vermilion Bay

Dogtooth Lake

Barrel Lake

Sandybeach Lake

Frazer La

Wapesi Lake

Calm Lake

Maynard Lake

Clearwater Wes t Lake

Lac des Iles

Garden Lake

Loonhaunt Lake

Swan Lake

Holinshead Lake

Otatakan Lake

Onamakawash Lake

McNamara Lake

Eaglehead Lake

Cheeseman Lake

QueticoProvincial Park

MINNESOTA

Rainy Lake

100 0 100 200 Kilometers

N

EW

S

Location of Sifton Township Conservation Reserve

INSET

21

Appendix APermitted Uses List

Land Use Activity for Sifton Township Conservation Reserve

Those uses and management activities not listed in the following table are governed by existingConservation Reserve policy. Management direction is elaborated in the Statement ofConservation Interest. Any new uses, and commercial activities associated with them, will beconsidered on a case by case basis, and must pass a test of compatibility to be acceptable.Compatibility is normally determined through a planning process.

Activity Permitted GuidelineCommercial Activities:Aggregate Extraction No

Bait Fishing (commercial)Existing:New:

YesMaybe

Existing use permitted to continue, unless there aresignificant demonstrated conflicts. New operations can beconsidered, subject to the "test of compatibility".

Commercial FishingExisting:New:

YesMaybe

Existing use permitted to continue, unless there aresignificant demonstrated conflicts. New operations can beconsidered, subject to the "test of compatibility".

Commercial Fur HarvestingExisting:New:

YesMaybe

Existing use permitted to continue, unless there aresignificant demonstrated conflicts. Existing trap cabins cancontinue; new cabins are not permitted. New operations canbe considered, subject to the "test of compatibility".

Commercial Hydro Development: No

Commercial Timber Harvest: No

Commercial TourismExisting:New:

YesMaybe

Existing authorized facilities can continue, unless there aresignificant demonstrated conflicts. New tourism facilities canbe considered during the planning for an individual reserve.

Bear Hunting by Non-residents(guided):

Existing:New:

YesNo

Existing authorized operations permitted to continue. Newoperations not permitted.

Outfitting Services:Existing:New:

YesMaybe

Existing authorized operations permitted to continue. Newoperations can be considered during the planning for anindividual reserve.

Outpost Camps:Existing:New:

YesMaybe

Existing authorized operations permitted to continue. Newoperations can be considered during the planning for anindividual reserve.

Resorts/lodges:Existing:New:

YesMaybe

Existing authorized facilities permitted to continue. Newtourism facilities can be considered during the planning foran individual reserve.

Energy Transmission andCommunications Corridors:

Existing:New:

YesNo

These facilities should avoid conservation reserve landswherever possible.

Activity Permitted GuidelineFood Harvesting (Commercial):

Existing:New:

MaybeMaybe

Written authority required.

Mineral Exploration and Development: No

Peat Extraction: No

Wildrice HarvestingExisting:New:

YesMaybe

Land and Resource Management ActivitiesCrown Land Disposition

Private Use:Commercial Use:

MaybeMaybe

Sale of lands is not permitted, except for minor dispositionsin support of existing uses (e.g., reconstruction of a septicsystem). Renewals of existing leases and land use permitsare permitted. Requests for transfer of tenure will beconsidered in the context of the Statement of ConservationInterest or Resource Management Plan. New leases or landuse permits permitted for approved activities. Tourismfacilities can apply to upgrade tenure from LUP to lease.

Fire Suppression: Yes Fire suppression policies are similar to adjacent Crownlands, unless alternative fire policies have been developedthrough a planning process.

Fish Habitat Management: Maybe

Fish Stocking MaybeNo

Conservation Reserves policy indicates that "featuredspecies management" may be permitted.

Insect/Disease Suppression Maybe

Inventory/Monitoring: Yes

Personal use permits forWood Harvesting:

Maybe Existing permits may continue on an interim basis forproperties that do not have road access. The long termstatus will be determined through management planning.

Prescribed Burning: Maybe May be carried out to simulate natural fire. Subject to aplanning process.

Activity Permitted Guideline

Roads (resource access)Existing:

New:

Yes

No

Existing roads can continue to be used. Continued use willinclude maintenance and may include future upgrading.New roads for resource extraction will not be permitted, withthe exception of necessary access to existing forestreserves for mineral exploration and development.

Vegetation Management: Maybe Conservation Reserves policy indicates that FeaturedSpecies Management and Natural Systems Managementmay be permitted. Vegetation management can beconsidered in a planning process.

Wildlife Population Management: Maybe

Science, Education and Heritage AppreciationCollecting: No

Historical Appreciation: Yes

Nature Appreciation: Yes

Photography and Painting: Yes

Research: Yes

Wildlife Viewing: Yes

Recreation Activities and FacilitiesAll Terrain Vehicle Use

On Trails:Off Trails:

YesNo

Existing use permitted to continue where it does notadversely affect the values being protected. ATV use notpermitted except for direct retrieval of game.

Campgrounds: Maybe

Horseback Riding (trail): Yes Existing use on trails permitted.

Hunting: Yes

Mountain Bike Use: Yes Existing use on trails permitted.

Motor Boat UseCommercial:Private:

YesYes

Non-motorized Recreation Travel: Yes

Private Recreation Camps (HuntCamps)

Existing:New:

YesNo

Existing camps permitted to continue, and may be eligiblefor enhanced tenure, but not purchase of land.

Rock Climbing: Maybe

Activity Permitted Guideline

SnowmobilingOn Trails:Off Trails:

YesMaybe

Existing use permitted to continue where it does notadversely affect the values being protected. Off trails notpermitted, except that snowmobiles maybe used for directretrieval of game.

Sport Fishing: Yes

Trail Development: Maybe Development of trails for a variety of activities (e.g., hiking,cross-country skiing, cycling, horseback riding,snowmobiling) can be considered as part of planning for anindividual reserve.

Note: The policies outlined in this table do not supersede any Aboriginal or treaty rights that may exist, or other legalobligations.

Source: OLL Land Use Strategy, Table 4, and Conservation Reserves Policy.

Management of this conservation reserve is carried out within the context of conservation reserve policy as amended by thepolicies for new conservation reserves outlined in the OLL Land Use Strategy.

SOURCE OF DIRECTION:

LUS (1999)

Fort Frances District Fisheries Management Plan (1987)

Appendix BSurvey Checksheets

RECREATION INVENTORY CHECKLIST

NAME Sifton Township Conservation Reserve

MAP NAME ARBOR VITAE NTS Number 52D/16 UTM reference 15 4125/54184

OBM Number LATITUDE LONGITUDE AREA (ha) OWNERSHIP2015410054100 48 55' 00" 94 11' 30" 712 Crown

MNR REGION MNR DISTRICT PARK ZONE COUNT TOWNSHIPNorthwest Fort Frances Northwest N/A Sifton/Dewart

RECREATION RECREATION1. E08 Wetland Vegetation 1. n05 Nature Study2. W00 Wildlife, general 2. h00 Hunting/Trapping - Hunting - General3. E03 Coniferous 3. n03 Identifying Wildlife4. J05 Organic 4. q10 Birdwatching5. 5. n06 Photography6. 6.7. 7.8. 8.

RECREATION FEATURES Rating:Very High High Moderate Low

N/A

Most Scarce Feature: 3Feature Scarcity: Moderate

Most Unique Feature: 1Activity Attraction Capability: LowScenic Attractiveness: LowGeographic Significance: High

Feature Significance: HighMost Sensitive Feature To Recreation 1

Feature Sensitivity To Recreation Use: HighMost Sensitive Feature To Resource 1

Feature Sensitivity To Resource Development: High

Cultural/Historic and Archaelogical Features: N/A

Comments The site has limited potential for most traditional recreational activities, being dominated by swamp and bog.Activities which could be pursued such as hunting, bird and wildlife viewing or botany, are hampered by thedifficulties associated with access.

DATE COMPILED COMPILERNovember 28,2001 John Munroe

Source: Recreation Resource Inventory Stadndards and Proceedures DRAFT REPORT, Gov. of British Columbia, Ministry of Forests Range, Recreation and Forests Practices Branch, March1995.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario Parks300 Water Street, Peterborough, Ontario K9J 8N1

EARTH SCIENCE INVENTORY CHECKLISTNAME

NAME

MAP NAME NTS Number UTM reference

Sifton Township Conservation Reserve (C2372)

Arbor Vitae 52 D/16 15U 4125/54184

OBM Number LATITUDE LONGITUDE ELEVATION – MAX ELEVATION - MIN

2015410054100 48° 55’ 00" 94° 11’ 30'' 360 355

COUNTY TOWNSHIP

LOT CONCESSION

AREA (ha) OWNERSHIP

� YEAR ROLL FLIGHT LINE NUMBER

AIRPHOTOS

MNR REGION MNR DISTRICT PARK ZONE

N/A Sifton/Dewart

8, 9, 10, 11 VI ; I

712 ha Crown

95 - 8 - 4830B - 165, 166, 16795 - 17 - 4831C - 61, 62, 63

Northwest Fort Frances Northwest

EARTHSCIENCEFEATURES

Extensive areas of wetlands and deep overburden make access to and direct observation of geological featuresdifficult, and much of the information is therefore inferred: glaciolacustrine and morainal deposits; extensive peatdeposits; felsic igneous rocks (Sabaskong Batholith); complex, deep, sandy carbonate-rich glaciolacustrinesediments and carbonate-rich and acidic tills.

SIGNIFICANCE The peatland ecology supports a unique variety of flora and fauna. The drainage into three river systems hascreated a pattern of treed and open fen, swamp and raised bog ,visible primarily from the air. Forming theheadwaters of the Little Grassy, Kishkakoesis and Splitrock River systems, the site is considered of Regionalsignificance, although it is not the geological features directly which lead to this conclusion.

SENSITIVITY

RECOMMENDATIONS

Drainage of adjacent lands for agricultural and other purposes may have an influence on the rate of decompositionor volatility in the peat deposits, change drainage patterns and effect ecology. No significant undertakings of thissort currently affect the site.

The active co-operation of adjacent property owners and roads authorities in limiting drainage of wetlandsshould be sought.

MAJORREFERENCES

BAJC, A. F. (1991); FENTON, M. M., MORAN, S. R., TELLER, J. T. and CLAYTON, L. (1983); JOHNS, G.W. (1988); JONES, P. (1996); NORTHLANDASSOCIATES LTD. (1984); TELLER, J.T. and BLUEMLE, J. P. (1983); ZOLTAI, S.C. (1961).

DATE COMPILED COMPILERDecember 2001 John Munroe, District Planner, Fort Frances District.

360

355

355

370

365

365

37036

0

360

370360

36036

5

360

370

355

360

Hig

hway

617

DEWART

SIFTON

12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5

V

VI

I

#

Closed WasteDisposal Site

Sifton TownshipConservation Reserve

Kis

hkak

oesi

sR

iver

Splitrock

Riv

er

NATURAL HERITAGE AREA – LIFE SCIENCE CHECKSHEET

Name Sifton Township Conservation Reserve

Map Name ARBOR VITAE

Map Number52D/16

UTM Ref.154125/54184

County N/A

Lat. 48055'00"

Long. 94011'30"

NAD83

Min. Alt.355 m.

Max.Alt.360m.

Locality NW of North Branch, W of Highway #617.Approximately 23 kilometers north of the town of StrattonTownship Sifton/DewartArea 712 hectaresOwnership CrownMNR Region

NorthwestEcoregion and Ecodistrict

5S2Landform Unit(s)

MNR DistrictFort FrancesAerial PhotographsYear – Roll – Flight Line – Numbers1995 - 08 - 4830B - 164, 165, 166;1995 - 17 - 4831C - 61, 62, 63

360

355

355

370

365

365

370

360

360

370360

360

365

360

370

355

360

Hig

hway

617

DEWART

SIFTON

12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5

V

VI

I

#

Closed WasteDisposal Site


Kish

kako

esis

Rive

r

Splitrock

Riv

er

Physical and Biological Features

RepresentationPrimary feature is a raised bog, which is further differentiated into treed and open bog features. Surrounding wetland andupland forested features including swamp and fen ecosites are also included within the boundaries. The primary featuremay be subdivided into four distinct sections representing drainage; the southeast section drains into a tributary of thePinewood River; the southwest section drains into a second tributary of the Pinewood River; the northeast section drainsinto a tributary of the Splitrock River; and the northwest section drains into a tributary of the Grassy River. Between thedrainage divides within the primary feature lie the treed portions of the raised bog, with the feature becoming open bogradiating outwards. The bog feature grades into narrow bands of fen along the margins closer to the outflows, as watermovement becomes more pronounced. This in turn grades into treed swamp features, particularly in the northern drainagechannels. Upland features around the periphery of the site are captured mainly due to practical considerations associatedwith defining the boundary of the protected area

The site was initially identified by T. Noble in his gap analysis report as part of MNR's Nature's Best initiative as acandidate for protection. It was recommended as an representative example of a raised bog feature, relatively rare in thenorthwest. Subsequent Forest Resources Inventory identified the primary features as fen, but field investigation confirmedT. Nobles assessment as correct, with no evidence found of fen indicators throughout most of the primary wetlandecosites.

ConditionThe boundaries of the site as shown have been proposed to capture the wetland features and exclude areas indicatingpast human disturbance. The main features represented are therefore largely undisturbed. Several game trails, createdthrough dear usage as travel corridors corresponding to the peripherys of the main features, particularly running east-westalong the northern edge of the bog, were the only disturbances identified. A single trail runs in a northwesterly-southeasterly direction through the main treed bog portion. These trails represented localized compaction of the sphagnumhummocks, creating furrows which indicated continuous and significant use by deer. They are easily identified on aerialphotographs.Although a former waste disposal site formerly operated by MNR exists to the east of the site of the area, along Highway #617, the site has been closed and a significant treed buffer exists between it and the wetland feature. It is not anticipatedthat this represents any impact on the protected area.Surrounding private farmlands represent a variety of human activities, but due to the nature of the site as a headwater,most of these lands are located "downstream", and therefore should not represent significant potential impacts on thefeatures of the site.A single east-west survey line was cut through the centre of the bog feature along the boundary between Sifton andDewart Townships. It is identifiable on aerial photographs, but, due to its age, is not readily identifiable on the ground.DiversityThe ecosites identified within the boundaries of the protected area include:

Raised Bog Features•

Ecological Considerations

Elevated hummocks subject to compaction. Trails through bog features in particular should be discouraged.

Special Features

-peatland is situated on a drainage divide for three stream systems (i.e., Kishkakoesis, Splitrock, Grassy headwaters),draining southerly into the Pinewood and Rainy River; northerly into Sabaskong Bay; and westerly into Lake of the Woods,respectively.-"classic" raised (i.e., domed) bog belonging to the crested ridge type with drainage seeps radiating laterally from the ridgecrest.Major Information Sources: Forest Resources Inventory - Crossroute Forest (2000); Gap Analysis (Nature's Best) Recommendation - T.Noble (1997); Field reconnaisance Survey (Munroe/Baycroft - 2001).

Significance Level (Provincial/Regional/Local) and Brief Summary of Major Representative ValuesRegional. Raised bogs of this type are relatively common in northeastern Ontario but rare in northwestern Ontario.Date Compiled17/08/2001

CompilerJohn E. Munroe, District Planner

Ontario Ministry of Natural ResourcesFort Frances District

Appendix CMaps

STATEMENTOF

CONSERVATION INTEREST

Projection: UTM, NAD 83, Meters, Zone 15

Designed and produced by: Fort Frances DistrictInformation Management, Ministry of Natural Resources.

This map is illustrative only. Do not rely on it asbeing a precise indicator of routes, locations of features, nor as a guide to navigation.


C2372

Map 1

N

EW

S

Legend

Lake/pond

River/stream

Intermittent Stream

Lotline (surveyed)

Lotline (unsurveyed)

Township Boundary

Highway/Road

Trail

Contour

Note: This map is to be replaced bythe regulation plan map onceit becomes available.

Scale 1:20,000

600

â Waste DisposalSite (Closed)

SIFTON TOWNSHIP

CONSERVATION RESERVE

DEWART

SIFTON

I

V

VI

II

7 51 12 11 10 9 8 6

Tributary

River

GrassyLittle

River

Kishkak

oesis

River

Splitrock

1 0 1 Kilometers

N

EW

S

Map 2SIFTON TOWNSHIP

Conservation Reserve

Statementof

Conservation Interest




Conservation Reserve Boundary

Lakes

Rivers and Streams

OwnershipPrivate

Boundary LinesBMA

Baitfish

Trapline

Recreational ClassLow capability upland area - viewing upland wildlife

Very low capability upland area - viewing of upland and wetland wildlife

Source: CCRS (1999)

Contour

LEGENDDrainage Ditch

Primary Road

Provincial Highway

Secondary Road

Trail

Map 3Sifton Township

Conservation Reserve

RECREATIONAL SURVEY




N

EW

S

1 0 1 Kilometers

7UOW

6UO

Tributary

River

GrassyLittle

River

Kishkak

oesis

River

Splitrock

600

370

360

360

360

Trapline FF02Baitfish Block FF15

BMA FF-10-004

BMA FF-10-005Baitfish Block FF33Trapline FF02-1890

Statementof


Crest

Water Flow

C2372

ECOSITESHardwood-Fir-Spruce Mixedwood: Fresh, Fine Loamy-Clayey Soil

Black Ash Hardwood: Fresh, Silty-Clayey Soil

Spruce-Pine/Feathermoss: Moist, Silty-Clayey Soil

Treed Bog: Black Spruce/Sphagnum: Organic Soil

Poor Swamp: Black Spruce: Organic Soil

Intermediate Swamp: Black Spruce-Tamarack: Organic Soil

Rich Swamp: Cedar: Organic Soil

Rich Swamp: Black Ash: Organic-Mineral Soil

Treed Fen: Tamarack-Black Spruce/Sphagnum: Organic Soil

Thicket Swamp: Organic-Mineral Soil

Meadow Marsh: Organic-Mineral Soil


Primary Road

Provincial Highway

Secondary Road

Trail

Source: Forest Resources Inventory, Fort Frances Forest (2000)

LIFE SCIENCE SURVEYEcosites


Map 4




N

EW

S

1 0 1 Kilometers

600

Splitrock

River

Kishka

koesis

River

LittleGrassy

River

TributaryStatement

ofConservation Interest

Forest TypeBlack Spruce

Black Spruce/Tamarack

Cedar

Tamarack/Black Spruce

Black Ash

Poplar


Source: Forest Resources Inventory, Fort Frances Forest (2000)


Primary Road

Provincial Highway

Secondary Road

Trail




Map 5

LIFE SCIENCE SURVEYForest Cover

N

EW

S1 0 1 Kilometers

Tributary

River

GrassyLittle

River

Kishkak

oesis

River

Splitrock

60033820

2377016750

22870

18780

26850

16820

30900

39750

17870

36910

15840

18910

30710

39670

10860

28760

35730

13800

31910

34700

14910 21920

3373018740

30870

34840

39780

26710

356703767034680

28930

23700

22930

39710

10908

40880

33920

33680

10913

2271040690

41710

4177041780

Statementof


Surficial FeaturesBedrock: undifferentiated igneous and metamorphic rock, exposed or covered by a discontinuous, thin drift

Glaciolacustrine deposits: silt and clay, minor sand; basin and quiet water deposits

Organic deposits: peat, muck and marl

Till: undifferentiated , fine grained, predominantly silty clay to silt matrix, commonly high carbonate


C2372

Source: Barnett (1991)

LegendDrainage Ditch

Primary Road

Provincial Highway

Secondary Road

Trail

SS# Soil sample location

Direction of ice movementc

#Y

#Y

#Y

#Y

#Y

SS1

SS2

SS3

SS4

360

360

360

370

Waste Disposal(Decommissioned)

600

C

C

C

SIFTON

DEWART

1 0 1 2 Kilometers

N

EW

S

EARTH SCIENCE SURVEYSurficial Geology

Map 6




Statementof


Statementof


LANDFORMVery Weakly Broken Glaciolacustrine Plain: Organic Terrain

Weakly Broken Glaciolacustrine Plain/Rock Plain: Silty Clay

Weakly Broken Rock Knob/Glaciolacustrine Plain: Silty Clay


Source: Roed (1980)


Primary Road

Provincial Highway

Secondary Road

Trail

Map 7

LIFE SCIENCE SURVEYLandforms




N

EW

S

1 0 1 Kilometers

Tributary

River

GrassyLittle

River

Kishkak

oesis

River

Splitrock

600

370

360

360

360

Appendix DForest Stand Listings

SIFTON TOWNSHIP CONSERVATION RESERVE (C2372)Forest Resources Inventory - Stand Listings

STAND AGEWORKING

GROUP AREAYEAR

UPDATE HEIGHT STKG.SITE

CLASS SPECIES COMPOSITIONPRIME

ECOSITE MAPSHEET

26850 80 11 30 2000 9 0.8 3 SB 9L 1 35 15410541017870 80 11 23 2000 14 0.8 1 SB 9PO 1 31 15410541012910 0 0 0 2000 0 0 0 15410541022870 80 11 31 2000 7 0.7 4 SB 8L 2 36 15410541010860 70 18 12 2000 13 0.7 1 L 6SB 3CE 1 36 15410541040880 90 11 2 2000 9 0.6 3 SB 0 35 15410541033820 0 0 171 2000 0 0 0 15410541030870 60 11 7 2000 7 0.7 3 SB 9L 1 35 15410541015840 75 11 21 2000 5 0.5 4 SB 8L 2 36 15410541016820 80 11 27 2000 6 0.6 4 SB 0 35 15410541034840 60 11 7 2000 7 0.7 3 SB 9L 1 35 15410541018780 80 11 30 2000 7 0.8 4 SB 0 35 15410541013800 70 18 9 2000 11 0.7 2 L 5CE 3AB 1SB 1 36 15410541039780 90 11 7 2000 14 0.6 2 SB 7L 2AB 1 36 15410541023770 0 0 50 2000 0 0 0 15410541041780 50 33 2 2000 19 1 2 PO 8AB 1B 1 29 15410541016750 65 33 21 2000 22 0.9 2 PO 8B 1SW 1 29 15410541028760 80 11 11 2000 9 0.7 3 SB 7L 3 36 15410541041770 95 17 1 2000 8 0.7 4 CE 5SB 2AB 1L 1PO 1 37 15410541018740 80 11 7 2000 11 0.7 2 SB 5CE 3L 2 36 15410541039750 80 11 24 2000 15 1 1 SB 0 35 15410541035730 75 11 11 2000 6 0.6 4 SB 9L 1 35 15410541033730 85 11 8 2000 14 0.6 1 SB 7L 2PO 1 36 15410541034700 0 0 10 2000 0 0 0 15410541026710 80 11 7 2000 13 0.5 2 SB 8L 2 36 15410541030710 30 33 17 2000 14 1 2 PO 9B 1 29 15410541039710 142 17 4 2000 9 1 4 CE 8B 2 37 15410541041710 60 33 4 2000 20 1 3 PO 6B 2L 1SB 1 29 15410541039670 110 11 15 2000 11 0.7 3 SB 0 35 15410541022710 80 11 1 2000 11 0.7 2 SB 5CE 3L 2 36 15410541023700 65 33 4 2000 22 1 2 PO 8B 2 29 15410541037670 0 0 6 2000 0 0 0 15410541040690 60 11 4 2000 7 0.6 3 SB 7L 3 36 15410541034680 65 33 5 2000 22 1 2 PO 8B 2 29 15410541033680 30 33 0 2000 14 1 2 PO 9B 1 29 15410541035670 0 0 6 2000 0 0 0 15410541031640 65 33 34 2000 22 1 2 PO 8B 2 29 15410541034630 65 33 9 2000 22 1 2 PO 8B 2 29 15410541036630 0 0 5 2000 0 0 0 15410541038630 0 0 10 2000 0 0 0 15410541039620 110 11 14 2000 11 0.7 3 SB 0 35 15410541010908 55 33 1 2000 20 0.7 2 PO 5B 2BW 1SB 1SW 1 38 15410541010913 0 0 1 2000 0 0 0 15410541021920 45 20 9 2000 14 0.7 1 AB 0 38 15410541022930 60 33 4 2000 22 0.7 2 PO 6B 2SB 1SW 1 29 15410541028930 110 17 4 2000 11 0.7 3 CE 7SB 2L 1 37 15410541018910 75 11 19 2000 12 0.7 2 SB 8L 2 36 15410541036910 80 18 23 2000 16 0.7 1 L 6PO 2AB 1SB 1 36 15410541033920 110 17 1 2000 11 0.7 3 CE 7SB 2L 1 37 15410541031910 80 11 10 2000 13 0.6 2 SB 7L 3 36 15410541014910 65 33 10 2000 23 0.8 2 PO 6B 2AB 1SB 1 29 15410541030900 75 11 25 2000 6 0.8 4 SB 8L 2 36 154105410

Appendix ESifton Township Conservation Reserve

Factsheet

June, 2001

BACKGROUND

On July 16, 1999, the Ontario Government released the Ontario's Living Legacy Land Use Strategy to guide theplanning and management of Crown lands in central and parts of northern Ontario. A major part of theOntario's Living Legacy Land Use Strategy was a government intent to establish 378 new protected areas. Thiscommitment marks the biggest expansion of provincial parks and conservation reserves in Ontario's history.

The proposed Sifton Township Conservation Reserve is part of this significant expansion of Ontario's protectedareas system.

SIZE AND LOCATION

The Sifton Township site is located in the Rainy River District, approximately 23 kilometres north of the townof Stratton. This small site is not road accessible but Highway 600 is located within 750 metres of the easternboundary. The area surrounding this reserve is predominately patented land. The Sifton Township site isapproximately 712 hectares in size.

AREA HIGHLIGHTS

The proposed Sifton Township Conservation Reserve is a unique area that contains a raised bog. A raised bogis formed when peat accumulates at the centre to a greater degree than at the edges resulting in a cross sectionresembling an inverted saucer. This wetland feature is very unique to northwestern Ontario. The SiftonTownship site supports many wetland/bog plant species, birds of prey, and songbirds. Around the periphery,visitors may be fortunate to view deer, bear and other small mammals. Due to the wet nature of this area,access within the site is limited and difficult.

LAND USE INTENT

Conservation reserves are areas of Crown land set aside by regulation under the Public Lands Act.Conservation reserves complement provincial parks in protecting representative natural areas and speciallandscapes. Most recreation activities (e.g. hiking, skiing, tourism related uses, nature appreciation) that havetraditionally been enjoyed in the area will continue, provided that these uses do not impact on the naturalfeatures needing protection. Hunting and fishing is permitted within most new conservation reserves proposedthrough Ontario's Living Legacy.

Commercial timber harvesting, mining, aggregate extraction and commercial hydroelectric development areprohibited in conservation reserves. New private access roads and new resource access roads are not permittedin conservation reserves unless a prior commitment has been made.

Where there are existing Aboriginal and treaty rights, the establishment of this conservation reserve does notextinguish these rights.

NEXT STEPS

SIFTON TOWNSHIPCONSERVATION RESERVE

C2372FACT SHEET

The Land Use Strategy established the Ministry's intent to add these Crown land areas to Ontario's protectedareas system following the extensive public consultation associated with the Ontario's Living Legacy and Landsfor Life land use planning initiatives between 1997 and 1999. Prior to the finalization of the boundary of thisConservation Reserve proposed for regulation under the Public Lands Act, the Ministry is inviting publiccomment from June 15 - July 15, 2001 on the proposed boundary from all potentially affected stakeholders.The Ministry is committed to ongoing consultation First Nations potentially affected by OLL decisions.

In the interim, the area has been withdrawn and protected from resource extraction activities such as timberharvesting, hydroelectric development, aggregate extraction and new mineral exploration.

In the future and subject to the intended regulation of the area as a conservation reserve, the Ministry of NaturalResources will provide long term management direction for this area. Depending upon the complexity of issueswithin this conservation reserve, management direction may take the form of a simple Statement ofConservation Interest or a more detailed Resource Management Plan. The public will be invited to participate inthe preparation of management plans. Please let us know if you would like to be notified directly of thisopportunity. Planning, management and the uses permitted within this conservation reserve will be consistentwith the commitments of the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy and Conservation Reserves Policy andProcedure (1997).

FOR MORE INFORMATION

For further information on the Sifton Township Conservation Reserve, please contact John Munroe, Ministry ofNatural Resources, 108 Saturn Ave., Atikokan, Ontario, P0T 1C0, phone (807) 597-6971, extension 241, Fax:(807) 597-6185. You may also visit the Ministry's Internet web site at www.ontarioslivinglegacy.com forinformation on Ontario's Living Legacy.

Appendix FPhotographs

Figure 2: Satellite image of Sifton Township Conservation Reserve.

Figure 3: Aerial photograph of raised bog feature - Sifton Township Conservation Reserve.

Figure 4: Aerial photograph showing distinct game trails - Sifton Township ConservationReserve.

Figure 5: Photograph of ES40 Treed Fen - Sifton Township Conservation Reserve.

Figure 6: Photograph of ES34 Treed Bog - Sifton Township Conservation Reserve.

Figure 7: Photograph of ES36 Intermediate Swamp - Sifton Township Conservation Reserve.

sifton township conservation reserve · 2014. 3. 5. · photograph of es40 treed fen - sifton...

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