Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve Management Statement

Approval statement

I am pleased to approve this Statement of Conservation Interest for the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve.

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve, protecting mature white pine in association with other conifers and intolerant hardwoods, is the best example of this forest type growing on bedrock and valley train material in Site District 4E-3. Regulated in December 2000, this 163-hectare conservation reserve is located in the Territorial District of Sudbury, in Northeastern Ontario.

Direction for establishing, planning and managing conservation reserves is defined under the Public Lands Act and current policy. The direction for this conservation reserve is in the form of a Statement of Conservation Interest, which defines the area that is being planned, the purpose for which the conservation reserve has been proposed, and it outlines the Ministry of Natural Resources’ intent for the protected area. This Statement of Conservation Interest will provide guidance for the management of the conservation reserve and the basis for the ongoing monitoring of activities. More detailed direction is not anticipated at this time. Should significant developments be considered or complex issues arise that require additional studies, more defined management direction, or special protection measures will be sought and a more detailed Resource Management Plan will be prepared with full public consultation.

The public was informed and consulted prior to the regulation of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve under the Public Lands Act as well as during the preparation and review of this Statement of Conservation Interest.

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve will be managed under the jurisdiction of the Sudbury District Ministry of Natural Resources under the supervision of the Sudbury Area Supervisor as designated by the District Manager.

Submitted by:
Jennifer Moulton and Natalie Avoledo
Date: March, 2003

Recommended for approval by:
Cindy Blancher-Smith
District Manager
March 7, 2003

Approved by:
Grant Ritchie for Rob Galloway
Regional Director
Date August 28, 2003

1.0 Introduction

The Province of Ontario is home to a broad range of climate types, geography, and plant and animal species, all of which contribute to the variety and abundance of natural resources found here. The Ministry of Natural Resources is the lead conservation and resource management agency in the province and is therefore responsible for the management of these resources, in particular, forests, fisheries, wildlife, mineral aggregates and petroleum resources, Crown lands and waters, and provincial parks and protected areas (MNR 2000).

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is committed to the protection of natural and cultural heritage values and as such has developed strategies that will maintain the integrity and sustainability of the parks and protected areas system. Recently the Government of Ontario conducted a major land use planning exercise, which resulted in the release of the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999). The Land Use Strategy (LUS) focuses on four specific objectives that were established to guide the planning process. These are: to complete Ontario’s system of parks and protected areas; to recognize the land use needs of the resource-based tourism industry; to provide forestry, mining, and other resource industries with greater land and resource use certainty; and to enhance hunting, angling and other Crown land recreation opportunities. A major part of the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy was the government’s initiative to establish 378 new protected areas. This commitment marks the largest expansion of provincial parks and conservation reserves in Ontario’s history.

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve (C206) was created as part of this expansion. As a result, the planning and management of this conservation reserve is consistent with the policies outlined in the Land Use Strategy. This conservation reserve is regulated under the Public Lands Act (PLA). Prior to its regulation, MNR met the Environmental Assessment Act requirements for the establishment and management of this conservation reserve.

Ontario’s network of natural heritage areas has been established to protect and conserve areas that represent the diversity of the natural regions of the province, including the species, habitats, special features and ecological systems which comprise that natural diversity. Protecting these natural heritage areas is key to the sustainable management of natural resources. It ensures that representative sites are retained in their natural state and can continue to contribute to Ontario’s natural environment (MNR 1997a).

In order to preserve these sensitive areas they require protection from incompatible uses to ensure their values will endure over time. Conservation reserves have been identified as a way of providing necessary protection from incompatible uses, while still permitting many of the traditional uses that allow the people of Ontario to enjoy our special heritage. An approved Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) or a Resource Management Plan (RMP) will guide the management and administration of each conservation reserve.

The management direction for this conservation reserve is a Statement of Conservation Interest. As a stewardship document, the SCI is the minimum level of management direction established for this conservation reserve. SCIs define the area that is being planned, the purpose for which the conservation reserve has been proposed, and it outlines the Ministry of Natural Resources’ intent for the protected area. This SCI will govern the lands and waters within the regulated boundary of the conservation reserve. However, to ensure MNR protection objectives are being fully met within the conservation reserve, the surrounding landscape and related activities must consider the site’s objectives and heritage values. In addition, it is the intent of this SCI to create public awareness that will promote responsible stewardship of protected areas and surrounding lands.

With management partners such as Ontario Parks, industry, local governments, etc. the MNR District Offices will be able to pursue and advance sound environmental, economic and social strategies and policies related to the protection of conservation reserves and provincial parks.

The purpose of this SCI is to identify and describe the values of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve and outline the Ministry’s management intent. The management direction will protect the site’s natural heritage values for the benefit of all Ontario residents and demonstrate its compatibility within the larger sustainable landscape. This direction will comply with land use intent as stated by the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999).

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve, protecting old white pine in association with other conifers and intolerant hardwoods, is the best example of this forest type growing on bedrock and valley train material in Site District 4E-3. Regulated in December 2000, this 163- hectare conservation reserve is located in the Territorial District of Sudbury, in Northeastern Ontario and is composed entirely of Crown lands and waters. The guidelines for the management of this conservation reserve are found in this document.

2.0 Goals and objectives

The goal of a conservation reserve, as stated in Policy PL 3.03.05 (MNR 1997a), is to protect the natural heritage values on public lands while permitting compatible land use activities. The goal of this Statement of Conservation Interest is to provide the framework and direction to guide management decisions in order to ensure the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve will meet this goal through both short and long-term objectives.

2.2 Objectives

2.2.1 Short term objectives

Objective 1:

To define the purpose for which the conservation reserve has been identified and to outline the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources’ management intent for the protected area.

Strategies:

• By identifying the state of the resource with respect to the natural heritage values being protected;
• By identifying current land use activities that are occurring on the land base.

Objective 2:

To determine the best management strategy to protect the integrity of the values in the site.

Strategies:

• By determining the land use compatibility of current and potential land uses;
• By developing specific guidelines and prescriptions to manage existing and potential land uses.

Objective 3:

To create public awareness of the values within this conservation reserve and promote responsible stewardship of the protected area.

Strategies:

• By creating fact sheets and pamphlets describing this conservation reserve and the resource(s) or values that it contains and protects.
• By seeking partnerships with local stakeholders to ensure the values of the site are properly protected.

This Statement of Conservation Interest meets the planning requirements for conservation reserves as determined in Procedure PL 3.03.05 which states that management plans must be written within three years of the regulation date (MNR 1997b).

2.2.2 Long term objectives

Objective 1: To determine the long-term management goals of the conservation reserve.

Strategies:

• By identifying the research needs, client services, and marketing strategies necessary to determine the position of this conservation reserve among the system of parks and protected areas in Ontario.

Objective 2:

To determine the representative targets of the site.

Strategies:

• By identifying the scientific values in relation to provincial benchmarks;
• By identifying any monitoring or research necessary to identify and maintain the integrity of these characteristics beyond this plan.

Objective 3:

To provide direction for the evaluation of new uses or economic ventures proposed.

Strategies:

• A Test of Compatibility shall be undertaken to evaluate the impact of suggested use(s), either positive or negative, on the protected values and administrative needs of the conservation reserve.

3.0 Management planning

3.1 Planning context

3.1.1 Planning area

The planing area for this site will consist of the regulated boundary for the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve as defined in section 4.1.3 Administrative Description, plus the associated forest reserve area. This land base will form the area directly influenced by the Statement of Conservation Interest. However, in order to ensure that the protection objectives are being fully met within the conservation reserve, the surrounding landscape and related activities must carefully consider the site’s values.

Any strategies noted within this plan related to the site’s boundary or beyond will need to be presented for consideration within a larger planning context.

3.1.2 Management planning context

The need to complete the parks and protected areas system has long been recognized as an important component of ecological sustainability. This was reaffirmed in 1997 when the Lands for Life planning process was announced. Previous gap analysis studies were used to determine where candidate areas would be proposed in order to protect additional representative features. The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve was chosen as one of the candidate life science areas and subsequently appeared in the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999) as C206. The site was then regulated as Schedule 42, in Ontario Regulation 686/00 made under the Public Lands Act, December 20, 2000 and filed December 21, 2000 amending Ontario Regulation 805/94 (Conservation Reserves).

By regulation, under the Public Lands Act, this conservation reserve can not be used for commercial forest harvest or hydroelectric power development. Direction is provided in the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999). Currently no mining tenure exists within the regulated boundaries and the site has been withdrawn under the Mining Act. Mineral exploration and development are permitted to occur in the forest reserve area. Most recreational and non-commercial activities that have traditionally been enjoyed within the conservation reserve can continue provided that they pose little threat to the natural heritage values. Similarly, most non- industrial resource uses such as fur harvesting are permitted if they are compatible with the values of the reserve (MNR 1999). This SCI and future management will continue to try and resolve conflicts regarding incompatibility between uses and to ensure that identified values are adequately protected.

This Statement of Conservation Interest will only address known issues or current proposals with respect to permitted uses or potential economic opportunities brought forward to the District Manager during this planning stage. However, in terms of approving future permitted uses and/or development(s), there are established mechanisms in place to address such proposals. Any future proposals will be reviewed using the Procedural Guideline B – Land Uses – Test of Compatibility Procedure PL 3.03.05 (MNR 1997b) or other standard MNR environmental screening processes (see Appendix A).

3.2 Planning process

Management of a conservation reserve includes, as a minimum, the regulation, provision of public information, stewardship, and security. It also includes authorization and setting conditions on permitted uses and ongoing monitoring of compliance with the approved management document. Management of conservation reserves is the responsibility of the Ministry of Natural Resources at the district level, and will be done in accordance with Policy PL 3.03.05 (MNR 1997a) and an approved management document.

Once a conservation reserve has been established through the land use planning process it will be regulated under Section 4 of the Public Lands Act as an amendment to Ontario Regulation 805/94. Following the Reserve will be managed under the auspices of a SCI. Interested parties from both the private and public sectors were consulted during the Ontario’s Living Legacy (OLL) planning process from candidate conservation reserve to regulation. Following the regulation of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve in December 2000, a Terms of Reference was written to direct the completion of the management planning for this site and four other conservation reserves that were regulated at the same time. The First Nations and the public were notified that the management planning for the five conservation reserves was beginning. This notification occurred via mail-out to the First Nations and stakeholders and an advertisement appeared in two local newspapers during the regulation it must be determined what level the week of October 8, 2001. The Ministry of management planning is required to fulfill the protection targets. There are two policy documents involved: a Statement of Conservation Interest as the minimal requirement for providing planning direction, and a Resource Management Plan (RMP) which would deal with more complex issues where several conflicting demands are placed on the resources. The guidelines for the preparation of these documents is outlined in Procedural Guideline A – Resource Management Planning (Conservation Reserves Procedure PL 3.03.05) (MNR 1997b). The appropriate document must be completed within three years of the regulation date.

In most cases, management direction for conservation reserves will take the form of a SCI. A SCI is the minimum level of planning direction required for a conservation reserve. This form of management direction is generally used when the conservation reserve is seen to have few or no issues associated with it and any issues that do exist are local in nature and can be easily addressed through this process. If major issues arise and/or it is recognized that new decisions will need to be made beyond what is directed in the Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999) a RMP is warranted.

For current planning purposes, the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation of Natural Resources is exempt from providing notification of this planning process on the Electronic Bulletin Registry, under Section 30 of the Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR).

A draft version of this SCI was sent for review to members of the public and First Nations and MNR staff both at the district and regional office levels during July 2002. Comments provided to MNR were considered in this final document. Upon approval of this SCI, public notification will occur via mail-out to interested stakeholders and a notice will appear in the same two local newspapers.

Public consultation will be solicited during a review of any future land use proposals that would require new decisions to be made. In addition, any future proposal and/or any new, significant management direction considered will be published on the Environmental Bill of Rights Registry.

The implementation of the policy will be the mandate of the MNR at the district level; however, association with various partners may be sought to assist in the delivery. This SCI is a working document; therefore it may be necessary to make revisions to it from time to time (see section 6.4 Implementation and Plan Review).

4.0 Background information

4.1 Location and site description

4.1.1 Location

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is approximately 50 kilometers northwest of the City of Greater Sudbury (Map 1). This site is located in Ermatinger township and is approximately 10 km southwest of the Town of Cartier, adjacent to Fox Lake Road, which forms a small portion of the western boundary. The eastern edge of the conservation reserve is bound by a mining claim, which has current status as a forest reserve (Map 2). The following table describes the location and provides administrative details of the site:

Table 1: Location and administrative details for the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is located in Eco- District 4E-3, also known as the Mississagi Site District. This Eco-District is located in the center of Eco-Region 4E approximately between 81 30’W and 84 W Longitude, and 46 20’N and 47 50’N Latitude (Map 3) (Crins 1996).

4.1.2 Physical site description

The climate in Eco-District 4E-3 has been classified as a humid low boreal (LBh) eco- climatic region. Monthly precipitation ranges from 50-100mm with maximums occurring in the summer period. The frost-free period extends from May to mid-September, while temperatures above 0 C last approximately seven months (Ecoregions Working Group, 1989).

The vegetation of Eco-District 4E-3 is a transition between that associated with Boreal forest types and those characteristic of the Great Lakes—St. Lawrence forest region. The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is within the Temagami Forest Section of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Forest Region (Rowe 1972). The Temagami Forest Section is defined as a large upland area north of Lake Huron, stretching east and west from Lake Temagami, and occupying a generally southward-sloping surface. The typical association of this forest section consists of eastern white pine with scattered white birch and white spruce or a mixture of white birch, pine and spruce, with balsam fir, trembling and largetooth aspens (Rowe 1972).

The 1990 Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) for the Spanish Forest was examined to determine the forest composition of the conservation reserve. The FRI interpretation reveals that the site is composed of three main Working Groups white pine (Pw), white birch (Bw), and black spruce (Sb) (Map 4). The majority of the site (about 60%) is occupied by two white pine stands with a composition of 60% white pine, and mixtures of white spruce (Sw), poplar (Po), white birch, red pine (Pr), and balsam fir (B). The white birch stand occupies about 25% of the site and is composed of 60% white birch with poplar and black spruce. Lowland black spruce stands occupy low lying areas and have compositions of 40-80% black spruce with mixtures of cedar (Ce), jack pine (Pj), white pine, balsam fir, and white birch. Slivers of immature and mature jack pine stands occupy the eastern, southern and western boundaries of the site. The forest in the conservation reserve is mature to overmature with the white pine stands being the oldest. The ages for the forest stands range from 129 years and older for the white pine, 96 years for the white birch, and 101 years for the black spruce (Map 5).

Non-forest vegetation communities also exist in this site district, such as wetlands of varied composition (bogs^{footnote 1[1]}, fens^{footnote 2[2]} , marshes) and pioneer communities of mosses and lichens that are associated with rock outcrops, and cliffs (Crins 1996).

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is located within the dome-like topography of the Canadian Shield, which is composed of Precambrian bedrock. The site is within the southern limits of the Abitibi Uplands subdivision. These uplands create a rocky landscape covered with glacial lake deposits of former shorelines, lacustrine deposits, outwash areas, tills and moraines. In Ontario, the Abitibi Uplands physiographic area is further divided into the Cobalt Plain in the east and the Penokean Hills that forms the north shore of Lake Huron. This conservation reserve rests close to the northern boundary of the Penokean Hills, a landscape characterized by folded Proterozoic ^{footnote 3[3]}bedrock that extends from Sault Ste. Marie to Sudbury (Bostock 1970).

Folds and faults are frequent throughout the Abitibi Subprovince and the granite^{footnote 4[4]}- greenstone^{footnote 5[5]}-gneiss^{footnote 6[6]} rocks of this area were developed between 2.8 and 2.6 billion years ago.

During the Pleistocene Epoch, all of Ontario was covered by a succession of ice sheets separated by interglacial periods. The last glacial advance, referred to as the Late or Classical Wisconsinan Stage, began approximately 23,000 years before present (Barnett 1992). During these periods a thin, discontinuous cover of till was deposited throughout the area by glacial ice. The till in the area is mostly sandy in texture, non- sorted and non-stratified and ranges from less than 1-3m in thickness (Wilkie 2000).

Erosion has been minimal since the disappearance of the ice sheet and the lowering of glacial lake water to present day levels. Organic deposits have been developed in depressions in the land surface. These organic deposits often overlie sand, silt and clay material. Modern alluvium has been deposited along the courses of existing creeks and rivers. Most of the area is dominated by unsubdivided bedrock-drift complexes with small portions of glaciofluvial deposits underlying the conifer stands. It is also noted that ice-contact stratified drift deposits occur just south of the site (Map 6) (Kor 2002). The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve lies within the Spanish River watershed. The northern boundary of the site follows Centre Creek and the hills where the old pine is located may contribute in a minor way to the hydrological characteristics of this stream (Crins 1996). Centre Creek then drains into John Creek, which subsequently empties into Agnew Lake, part of the primary water system of the Spanish River. The Spanish River then flows south to Lake Huron.

4.1.3 Administrative description

The legal description of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve, regulated as Schedule 42 in Ontario Regulation 686/00 made under the Public Lands Act on December 20, 2000 and filed on December 21, 2000 amending Ontario Regulation 805/94, reads:

The forest reserve borders the eastern boundary of the regulated conservation reserve and is approximately 29.5 ha. The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is located within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Sudbury District administrative area, which covers an area of approximately 3, 207, 000 hectares.

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is also located within the legal boundaries of the Spanish Forest Sustainable Forest License area, which encompasses approximately 1.2 million hectares and spans three MNR Districts – Chapleau, Timmins and Sudbury.

4.2 History of the site

The area where the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is located would have been ice-free approximately 10,000 to 11,000 years ago and would have been inhabited by Ontario’s First Nations shortly after. There has been a European presence in the area since the mid-1700’s when competition in the fur trade became intense. This lasted until the late 19^th century when logging became the primary industry. The immediate area was logged for white and red pine and the Spanish River was used to transport the logs downstream. Ermatinger Township saw the removal of 20,000,000 fbm red and white pine by the company Graves and Bigwood in the early part of the 20^th century (Thorpe 1950). Local creeks, lakes and rivers continued to be used for log drives into the 1940s, with the Spanish River still being used up to the early 1960s. (Blight personal communication). A small sawmill was operated in the adjacent Venturi Township at the north end of Fox Lake. This mill was operated until the early 1970s sawing mostly jack pine and spruce.

4.3 Inventories

Table 2 indicates the current status of natural heritage inventory that has occurred or is required in the near future.

Table 2: Inventory and survey information for Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve

5.0 State of the resource

The natural heritage of Ontario contributes to the economic, social and environmental well being of the province and its people. Protecting areas of natural heritage is therefore important for many reasons such as maintaining ecosystem health and providing habitat in order to maintain species diversity and genetic variability. Protected areas also provide scientific and educational benefits, they generate tourism, which bolsters local and regional economies, and they provide places where people can enjoy and appreciate Ontario’s natural diversity while enhancing their own health and well-being. In order to protect this vital natural heritage, Ontario has established a provincial parks and protected areas system to try and represent the entire suite of natural features, landscapes and ecosystems within the province. This representation and criteria to determine the current quality of that representation are discussed below (MNR 1997c).

This suggests that these stands should be at least 150 years old before they are considered old growth. Furthermore, site investigations suggest that the majority of the site’s pine communities are present on bedrock inclusions around the valley train landform. Therefore the provincial significance is greatly reduced with the discovery of the mature white pine mixed woods on bedrock. A third mixed wood stand of white birch-trembling aspen-black spruce was found to be represented on predominantly bedrock or bedrock with thin till and valley train deposits.

Representation

Completing the system of parks and protected areas is based on the concept of representation – capturing the full range of Ontario’s natural and cultural values. The goal of Ontario Parks is to place within the parks and protected areas system the best examples of our natural heritage including features, landscapes and ecosystems at the Eco-District level ^{footnote 7[7]} The complete system must therefore protect a range of natural heritage values based on the geological and biological diversity of the province (Davidson 1997). The best examples of representative features are considered to be provincially significant and may even be nationally or internationally significant. Locally and regionally significant areas also contribute to the system if they have been classified as the best representation currently available and have therefore been identified in some areas to meet the targets of representation in each of the Eco-Districts.

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is located within the dome-like topography of the Canadian Shield, which is composed of Precambrian bedrock. The site is within the southern limits of the Abitibi Uplands subdivision. These uplands create a rocky landscape covered with glacial lake deposits of former shorelines, lacustrine deposits, outwash areas, tills and moraines. In Ontario, the Abitibi Uplands physiographic area is further divided into the Cobalt Plain in the east and the Penokean Hills that forms the north shore of Lake Huron. This conservation reserve rests close to the northern boundary representation and criteria to determine the current quality of that representation are of the Penokean Hills a landscape characterized by folded Proterozoic^{footnote 8[8]} bedrock that extends from Sault Ste Marie to Sudbury (Bostock 1970).

Noble’s (1983) classification system defines the landform pattern of Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve as IVd-3 or weakly broken valley train^{footnote 9[9]} . A Gap Analysis ^{footnote 10[10]} completed in 1996 (Crins 1996) reported that the site was the best example of old growth white pine mixed woods on this landform type within the site district. White pine was associated with other conifers such as white spruce, balsam fir and red pine and intolerant hardwoods such as white birch and trembling aspen. Under the existing old growth policy at the time the white pine on site were considered old growth (i.e. greater than 121 years old). Current thinking concerning old growth suggests that these stands should be at least 150 years old before they are considered old growth. Furthermore, site investigations suggest that the majority of the site’s pine communities are present on bedrock inclusions around the valley train landform. Therefore the provincial significance is greatly reduced with the discovery of the mature white pine mixed woods on bedrock. A third mixed wood stand of white birch-trembling aspen-black spruce was found to be represented on predominantly bedrock or bedrock with thin till and valley train deposits.

A small portion of the white pine and poplar dominated mixed woods fall on weakly broken valley train or glaciofluvial deposits within the site’s eastern section. In addition, along the conservation reserve’s western border white pine and spruce mixed woods are also minimally represented on valley train deposits as well as portions of two jack pine stands and a white birch predominately deciduous mixed wood as previously mentioned. In summary, only a small portion of any forest community is represented on valley train deposits within the site with the majority of the site’s landform designated as bedrock.

Quality of present representation

The quality of the representation or the current characteristics of the natural features found within the conservation reserve are as important as the overall representative features that are being protected. A number of factors are considered in evaluating a site and they include the following criteria: diversity, condition, ecological factors, special features and current land use activities.

a) Diversity

Diversity is the measure of the relative number and range (i.e. amount of richness and evenness) of vegetative communities or special features found within the conservation reserve. Natural landscapes and known generalized vegetative communities will be the scale used for this SCI. Future aerial or ground reconnaissance surveys will enhance the MNR’s knowledge of these features and possibly allow verification at a lower scale (e.g. species assemblages).

Based on analysis in 1996 (Crins 1996) and an aerial reconnaissance survey completed in November 2000 (Morris 2000), this site’s diversity is relatively poor. The low diversity is due to its small size, few landform and vegetative community combinations are present, and the site’s evenness is skewed towards the white pine mixed woods and predominantly deciduous white birch community. The white pine forest stands are the primary feature within the site. The low-lying areas throughout the center and eastern portions of the site, the wetlands associated with Centre Creek and eastern sections of the site and a rocky bluff add slightly to the site’s diversity (Map 4).

Although comparatively the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve does not have a high degree of diversity in landform/vegetation units it still contributes somewhat to the overall diversity of the protected areas system in Ontario through its life science/landform contribution.

b) Ecological factors

Ecological factors refer to the current design of the conservation reserve as noted by its size, shape, buffering capacity to adjacent land use activities. In addition the site’s current linkage to undisturbed landscapes also contribute to the conservation reserve’s ecological integrity.

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is relatively small but most of the site’s boundaries either follow a natural boundary (i.e. Centre Creek) or current human disturbances such as road networks. The bedrock hills on which the pine communities are located probably contribute to the hydrological characteristics of Centre Creek and the creek’s associated wetlands (Crins 1996).

The eastern portion of the site has been vectored which severs some of the black spruce and jack pine dominated stands. However, the mature white pine on valley train and bedrock has been protected.

There has been recent forestry operations surrounding the site. Crins (1996) reported that the site was situated adjacent to roads and that cut-over areas surrounded the site. Further site review in 2000 (Morris 2000) suggested that young pine plantations as well as some open cut-over areas currently surround the site. Supportive landscape management will be required in order to ensure protection of the core values during forestry rehabilitation measures. This site will thus require some direct management protection to prevent disturbance during future harvesting activity adjacent to the site. Ensuring all vectored boundaries are well marked, monitoring silvicultural activities surrounding the site, and ensuring the site is considered in any future landscape management plans should be part of any ongoing stewardship management program for the conservation reserve.

Finally, the site is somewhat supported by the presence of nearby candidate and currently regulated protected areas. As a collective, contribute to the representation of that portion of the parks and protected areas system and surrounding landscape located near Sudbury.

c) Condition

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is presently in good condition. The site is relatively intact although cut-overs and plantations of young pine surround the site. The southern edge of the site contains a small area that was cut in 1973 and subsequently underwent site preparation and aerial seeding. The vicinity of the Fox Lake Road and other forest access roads and trails may be allowing for human disturbance, however, this disturbance is likely minimal and is not seen to be site compromising at this time. No current natural disturbances have been recorded for this site.

d) Special features

The core special feature for the conservation reserve is the mature white pine in association with valley train, bedrock and bedrock drift landforms.

Morris (2000) noted that the site might be fostering the growth of large white pines by the existence of the natural fertilizer carbonatite. This mineral aggregate is being excavated a short distance away from this site and therefore there is potential that the soils of this site are enriched with the same material. Further investigation may be warranted.

Finally, directly south of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve, across Fox Lake Road, there is a spectacular vista known locally as “The Ladders”. This is a view of a series of cascading waterfalls on Pumphouse Creek just above its junction with John Creek, see Figure 1 (Martindale, pers. comm.).

e) Current land use activities

Current land use activities within or near the conservation reserve include snowmobiling, all terrain vehicle (ATV) use and hunting. Its location along the way to Fox Lake and the Spanish River elbow makes it a favoured travel corridor for recreationalists travelling to other destinations within the surrounding landscape or for hunting moose, bear or deer. The site falls within a small portion of two active traplines and one active bear management area as well as one bait fish harvest area.

Figure 1: The Ladders, a spectacular vista located south of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve

Summary:

This conservation reserve was considered the best representative example of old white pine mixed woods on weakly broken valley train (IVd-3) within the Eco-District 4E-3. As such, this landform/vegetation combination is considered provincially significant. During recent site visits and further investigation it appears that the majority of the site contains mature pine on bedrock or bedrock drift landforms with valley train supporting only a small portion of the current white pine mixed wood communities found within the conservation reserve. Regardless, the site is considered provincially significant and these elements are well protected within its boundaries. This protected area will eventually support old growth white pine on bedrock, which will help the province meet some of its old growth objectives in the future.

The site is generally undisturbed but has a low diversity and some inherent design limitations. The small size of the site and eastern vectored boundaries ensured that some landform/vegetation features extend beyond the site’s boundaries. However the core white pine communities appear to be adequately protected within the site’s boundaries. Additional protection of core values will require consideration for the values within large landscape management plans or strategies. The natural heritage features are not significantly sensitive to current permitted uses; however, additional disturbance due to increased trail development or any forest or wetland community disturbance by humans would impact on the quality of the present representation within Centre Creek Old Pine Conservation Reserve.

5.1 Social/economic interest in the area

This Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve contributes to the local economy and society through opportunities presented below.

a) Linkage to local communities

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is accessible from Highway 144 near Levack as well as from Cartier, along the Old Cartier Road. The turn off to Fox Lake Road is approximately 10 km from Cartier, from there the site is approximately another 10 km. The site is located between two provincial parks (Windy Lake Provincial Park and Spanish River Provincial Park) and is located near three existing tourist outfitters, Fox Lake Lodge, Miller’s Spring Bear Hunt, and the Spanish River Outfitters. These associations make the area important for recreational opportunities. Residents and visitors to Ontario seeking recreation at the nearby parks or outfitter camps may also seek complimentary recreation opportunities in the area of this conservation reserve. The site is located approximately 3.5 km from The Elbow, a particular spot on the Spanish River known for its accessibility. This is where the majority of canoeists and whitewater enthusiasts tend to either exit the river or launch their boats and it is also a well-known temporary camping spot. The location of this river launch and the nearby view of The Ladders makes the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve a convenient stopover place on any recreational trip.

Fox Lake Road passes by a portion of the conservation reserve and other forest access trails provide access to the southern edge of the site. These forest access roads also double as snowmobile/ATV trails which provide a connection to the major trails under the jurisdiction of the Onaping Falls Snowmobile Club. Snowmobiling and ATV use are popular pastimes of many local people as well as tourists to the area. Winter snowmobiling activities bring tourism to the town of Cartier and the economic benefits are felt through spending at the local convenience stores, restaurants and gas station.

Some of the recreational/commercial activities that the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve represents may include hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, photography, fishing, small game hunting/trapping, and large game hunting (moose, bear). Hunting, trapping and fishing are long-standing traditional activities and they are also a vital part of the local economy. Economic benefits are seen at local establishments from bear and moose hunting parties as well as fishing enthusiasts, and trapping provides a source of income to local trapline holders.

b) Heritage estate contribution

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve contributes to the province’s parks and protected areas system through its regulation, representation and the long-term management of its natural heritage values.

The protected area system allows for permanent protection of our history and special features, and it will provide valuable areas as benchmarks to scientists and educators as more and more of Ontario’s land base is developed or altered from its natural state. Each protected area contributes to this heritage in its own unique way – whether it is a contribution to the preservation of an earth science value, a life science value, a recreational or economic opportunity, or through its cultural/historical significance. The designation of an area as a conservation reserve helps define its role in the system.

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve’s distinct contribution is a combination of life science/glacial history preservation, and educational and recreational opportunities. The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve may also offer cultural/historical preservation, as the area has been an important part of the native culture/history. The site is also accessible, therefore scientists, educators and recreationalists alike will not have difficulty in accessing the site to learn about and enjoy its values.

Long term management must consider public access to the site, the conservation reserve protection objectives, and commitments made in the OLL Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999).

c) First Nations

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve lies within the Robinson-Huron Treaty Area, Treaty #61. The area in question has been identified as being within the traditional lands of the Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation. The protection of this area as a conservation reserve and the Statement of Conservation Interest are not meant to infringe on the Treaty and Aboriginal Rights of any First Nation in any way. Traditional uses such as hunting, fishing, trapping and gathering will be respected. At the present time, there are no known land claims by First Nations for the area in question.

d) Mining interest

This conservation reserve contains one (1) mining claim (Mining Claim No. 1214589), which has been designated as a forest reserve.

A forest reserve is a land use designation applied to areas that were initially identified for inclusion in the conservation reserve but where detailed examination determined that there were existing mining claims or leases.

Mining and surface rights have been withdrawn from staking within the conservation reserve boundaries under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 Chapter M.14). Therefore, no new claims can be staked and the intent is that the forest reserve will be added to the conservation reserve if the claim or lease is retired through the normal process.

Policies for forest reserves are similar to the policies for new conservation reserves, except that mining and related access will be allowed in a forest reserve.

Mining will not occur in any regulated protected area.

e) Forest and fire management history

The conservation reserve is relatively undisturbed and has not been recently effected by forest harvest activities or recent fires.

f) Other government agencies, departments or crown corporations

Other Government Agencies that may have an interest in the site include the Ministry of Citizenship (MCzP), the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Recreation (MTCR), the Ministry of Transportation (MTO), and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). Although there are no known cultural heritage values present at this time if values were identified in the site the MNR would work with the MCzP to ensure proper protection of any cultural heritage resources. The MNR will also work in conjunction with the MTCR to identify/enhance any potential tourism opportunities, in particular where resource-based tourism (RBT) potential is identified. RBT operations include hunting and fishing as well as eco-tourism opportunities. Proper evaluation will be undertaken where opportunities are identified to ensure consistency with the management policies of this conservation reserve. The MTO may express an interest in the site for future development considerations on nearby roads. The MMAH also needs to be aware of the location of this site in order to prevent further encroachment during possible future expansions.

g) Non-Government organizations and other industry interests

Non-Government organizations who may express an interest in the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve may include: the Partnership for Public Lands, the Federation of Ontario Naturalists, Northern Ontario Tourist Outfitters, the Sudbury and Area Trapper’s Council, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, and the Sudbury Trail Plan Association.

The existence of this protected area will provide enhanced recreation potential and these associations may wish to approach the MNR as stewards of the protected area. The MNR will work in conjunction with any association who identifies an interest or compatible use potential within the site.

Other industries or companies that may have an interest in the conservation reserve may include the Prospector’s Association, the Sustainable Forest Licensee (Domtar Inc.), and the Aggregate Producer’s Association. The interests of these companies or industries may be limited to recognizing the boundaries and values protected within in order to uphold the MNR’s management policies within the conservation reserve.

5.2 Fisheries and wildlife

There is a small coldwater stream (Centre Creek) which forms the northern and north- western boundaries of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve (Figure 2). This creek is known for brook trout fishing and is within a bait fish license area. John’s Creek on the western edge of the site supports brook trout as well.

Wildlife on the site would be consistent with typical wildlife found in Eco-District 4E-3 including birds, small furbearers and large ungulates. The site is within two registered traplines and adjacent to one other and also falls into one Bear Management Area. Traplines have been present in the area since the 1950’s and the local area has been successfully managed to maintain a healthy balance of wildlife populations. Local knowledge indicates that this area is a particularly good moose hunting area and there is a known moose wintering area nearby. This area is within Wildlife Management Unit 39.

It is not known if any vulnerable, threatened or endangered species exist on or near the site. Further detailed habitat studies may be warranted.

Figure 2: Centre creek forming the northern boundary of Centre Creek old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve

5.3 Natural heritage stewardship

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve, a provincially significant old pine location, contributes to the natural heritage life science representation through its landform/ vegetation complexes. Earth science representation is also present in the weakly broken valley train, however this common landform has only local significance in this location. The conservation reserve also contributes to the variety of recreational opportunities that can be found in the parks and protected areas system. Currently there are no monitoring or research programs in place for this conservation reserve.

The current condition of vegetation is mostly intact but has been disturbed where forest access roads have been cleared through the site and where forestry operations including harvesting, preparation and seeding took place.

5.4 Cultural heritage stewardship

There are no known cultural heritage values within the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve and no detailed research has been conducted as of this date to document possible cultural heritage values. However, the area has been occupied for over a century and the possibility of heritage values being present does exist. If archaeological/ cultural resources are discovered within the conservation reserve proposals pertaining to the development/use of these cultural resources may be screened through direction provided in Conserving a Future For Our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning & Development In Ontario (MCzCR 1997).

5.5 Land use/current or past development

Current mining tenure is held bordering the site to the east and access to this mining claim can be gained through existing trails. No mines have been developed on the site in the past. There are no patent lands nested within the site and there are no other forms of tenure such as land use permits or licenses of occupation. A site fly-over in autumn 2000 indicated the potential existence of a tree-cabin, which has not been confirmed to date.

5.6 Commercial use

Commercial use of the site includes black bear hunting, and commercial fur harvesting. Centre Creek is also included in a bait fish license area.

5.7 Tourism/recreational use/opportunities

Current recreational uses and opportunities of the site include hiking, fishing, hunting, bird watching, etc.

Fox Lake Lodge and the Spanish River Outfitters, catering to hunters and canoeists, and Miller’s Spring Bear Hunt, catering primarily to non-resident bear hunters, all bring tourism to the area. Other tourism opportunities include snowmobiling and moose hunting.

The forest access road network is the only form of existing infrastructure near the site.

5.8 Client services

Currently, client services are being provided at the Sudbury District MNR office in the form of knowledgeable staff and available fact sheets and site maps. Further client services will be developed as a result of this plan, please see section 6.2 State of the Resource Management Strategies.

6.0 Management guidelines

6.1 Management planning strategies

The land use intent outlined in the OLL Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999) provides context and direction to land use, resource management, and operational planning activities on Crown land. Commitments identified in the above strategy and current legislation (Policy 3.03.05 PLA) will form the basis for land use within Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve. Management strategies for these uses must consider the short and long-term objectives for the reserve. For up to date information on permitted uses refer to the Crown Land Use Atlas.

Protected areas will be managed to retain and/or restore natural features, processes and systems. They will also provide opportunities for compatible research, education and outdoor recreation activities (MNR 1997c). Proposed uses and development will be reviewed on a case-by- case basis. A Test of Compatibility, (Procedural Guidelines B – Land Uses PL 3.03.05) must be passed before they are deemed acceptable. The emphasis will be on ensuring that the natural values of the conservation reserve are not negatively affected by current and future activities. Therefore any application for new specific uses will be carefully studied and reviewed via the above environmental screening process.

Management strategies will also be consistent with the objectives of increasing public awareness, promoting responsible stewardship, providing marketing opportunities, and identifying Inventory Monitoring Assessment Reporting (IMAR) potential.

6.2 “State of the resource” management strategies

The development of this SCI and the long- term management and protection will be under the direction of the MNR’s Sudbury Area Supervisor. The following section will deal with the management strategies that are specifically laid out to maintain, protect and enhance the existing natural heritage values and land use activities of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve.

Natural heritage values

The management intent for the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve will be to allow for natural ecosystems, processes and features to operate undisturbed with minimal human interference while providing educational, research and recreational activities. Forest ecosystem renewal will only be entertained via a separate vegetative management plan.

Forest fire protection will be provided as per fire strategies used on surrounding public lands, under the direction of the provincial fire strategy. All wildfire occurrences will be considered a high priority and will actively be suppressed. Prescribed burning will be conducted only under the direction of the provincial fire strategy and authorized for the conservation reserve under a separate vegetative management plan. Prescribed burning may be utilized if deemed necessary to emulate natural disturbances and renew forest communities, prepare seed beds for research and/or education purposes or to meet additional objectives determined within a separate vegetative management plan. Consideration for the life science values will be the governing priority in any future vegetative management plan.

Defining compatible uses, enforcing regulations and monitoring and mitigating issues will protect all earth and life science features. Industrial activities such as commercial timber harvest and new hydro generation will not be permitted within the conservation reserve. Extraction of unconsolidated sand, gravel, soils or peat is not permitted. Energy transmission, communication and transportation corridors or construction of facilities are discouraged within the boundaries of the conservation reserve. Such structures negatively impact on the quality of representation features that require protection. Alternatives should be reviewed via larger landscape planning processes. New roads for resource extraction and/or private use will not be permitted. Other activities that do not pass a Test of Compatibility will be prohibited (MNR 1997a).

The introduction of exotic and/or invasive species will not be permitted. Programs may be developed to control forest insects and diseases where there is a concern that significant values may be compromised. Remedies must focus on the outbreak or infestation. Native biological or non-intrusive solutions should be applied whenever possible.

The collection/removal of vegetation and parts thereof may be permitted subject to a Test of Compatibility, the Area Supervisor may authorize such activities for purposes of wild rice harvesting, food harvesting, removing exotic species, rehabilitating degraded sites within the reserve, collecting seeds for maintaining genetic stock and/or for inventory or research. The cutting of trees for non-commercial purposes (e.g. fuel-wood) is not permitted.

MNR will provide leadership and direction for maintaining the integrity of this site as a heritage estate. To ensure MNR protection objectives are being fully met within the conservation reserve, activities on the surrounding landscape should consider the site’s objectives, heritage values and the design flaws currently present. MNR via input and plan review will ensure the conservation reserve’s values are considered in local and adjacent land use strategies and plans. Research, education and interpretation will be encouraged to provide a better understanding of the management and protection of the natural heritage values and will be fostered through local and regional natural heritage programs, initiatives and partnerships. Furthermore, adequate protection of core values will require cooperation with adjacent land users to help compensate for the conservation reserve’s small size and poor design.

Fisheries and wildlife

Sport fishing and hunting will be permitted within this conservation reserve. Fishery and wildlife resources will continue to be managed in accordance with specific policies and regulations defined by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and the Sudbury Area Supervisor. Management of these resources will have consideration for the earth and life science features contained within the site.

Wildlife viewing activities may be enhanced via client services with the existing trail networks supporting this activity. New trail development may be entertained for this activity providing a Test of Compatibility is conducted and passed.

Cultural heritage values

It is not known if cultural heritage values exist in the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve, however, if values are confirmed management would be consistent with Conserving a Future For Our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning & Development In Ontario (MCzCR 1997). There is a high possibility that cultural or historical resources do exist since the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve has been accessible for over a century.

Research and studies should be conducted to determine the potential and/or existence of cultural or archeological resources. However, at this time additional field surveys are not a priority.

Land Use/Past and Existing Development

The sale of lands within the conservation reserve is not permitted as per the OLL LUS (MNR 1999). No new recreational camps will be permitted. Road realignments, telecommunications and other resource networks will be discouraged from crossing the site and interrupting the conservation reserve’s natural state. New roads for resource extraction and/or private use will not be permitted.

Through the Ministry’s plan input and review program, applications for more intense use will be reviewed to ensure natural heritage values within the conservation reserve are considered and protected in planning decisions on adjacent private land.

Any new developments (e.g. tourism developments) proposed for the conservation reserve must go through a Test of Compatibility to ensure that the activity is permitted and to ensure the natural heritage values within the site are protected. If a proposal is considered, public consultation may be required. If accepted, an amendment of the SCI would be required.

Social/economic interest

The economic contribution of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve to the local community could be harnessed through marketing strategies that will maintain existing tourism use in the area allowing the Town of Cartier and local tourist outfitters to benefit through money spent at the local businesses. Socially, this area provides a recreational reserve for the local people and tourists to enjoy for their own health and well being. The people of Ontario will generally benefit from this conservation reserve through direct enjoyment of the area or through the knowledge that a provincially significant life science feature and our glacial history has been preserved. Other interest groups, such as colleges and universities, can benefit from this conservation reserve as a place to study the natural features and processes.

Commercial activities

Commercial, non-industrial activities such as fur harvesting, bait fish harvesting and Bear Management Areas will be managed according to prescriptions in the Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999). Fur harvesting traplines and bait fishing operations will be permitted to continue since there are no demonstrated conflicts between these activities and the values being protected. New operations would be subjected to a Test of Compatibility to ensure that the wildlife populations could sustain additional activity. Existing Bear Management Areas (BMAs) will be permitted to continue, however, new operations will not be permitted as per the Land Use Strategy (MNR 1999). MNR managers will work with operators to ensure that the natural heritage values within the conservation reserve are respected.

Forest reserve

Under the OLL LUS (MNR 1999) mining and related access will be allowed in the forest reserve. Necessary access to or within the forest reserve, for exploration or development purposes, will be permitted with appropriate consideration for the protection of conservation reserve values.

For those activities that could negatively influence the natural heritage values within the forest reserve and/or the conservation reserve, the district will work with the proponent to identify and mitigate potential mining or natural heritage concerns.

Aboriginal interests

Traditional activities and aboriginal rights as defined in the Robinson-Huron Treaty #61 and other relevant Acts, will not be affected within the boundaries of this conservation reserve. The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve is within the Sagamok First Nation’s area of interest and all Aboriginal and treaty rights will continue to be respected. The First Nation communities are encouraged to continue to use these areas as they have in the past.

Tourism and recreation

The earth and life science features and their protection, shall be the overall theme for tourism and recreation within the conservation reserve. There are no existing tourism facilities located in or directly adjacent to this conservation reserve. Any proposed tourism infrastructure or facilities would be required to undergo at Test of Compatibility and if accepted, further planning would occur, requiring public consultation and an amendment to this document. The existing local tourist outfitters can continue accessing this reserve as they have in the past, however, MNR will work with the proponents to ensure the values of the conservation reserve are respected and maintained to the highest level possible (see previous Commercial Activities strategies).

Most recreational activities that have traditionally been enjoyed in the area can continue provided they pose little or no threat to the natural ecosystems and features protected by the conservation reserve. Current activities include bird watching, hiking, skiing, ATV use and snowmobiling. Camping may also be a current use of the conservation reserve and will be permitted to continue.

Snowmobiles and All Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s) are permitted on existing trails. Under the OLL LUS (MNR 1999), all mechanized travel is restricted to existing trails. Off trail vehicle use is permitted for the retrieval of game only. To protect the natural heritage features within the conservation reserve, MNR will seek direction from local communities on how to reduce off trail use, if such activities become problematic.

Client services

Clients indicating their interest in the management, planning and future use in the conservation reserve will be put on a mailing list and notified of any future planning initiatives for the site.

Client services will be provided at the Sudbury District office and at nearby provincial parks through interpretive pamphlets and knowledgeable staff. In the future, information may be delivered from different sources; however, MNR Sudbury District office will be the lead agency for responding to inquiries regarding access permitted and restricted activities, values and recreation opportunities. A management agreement may be pursued with an appropriate partner to share responsibilities for information services and the delivery of other aspects of this SCI. For example having the interpretive pamphlets available at local convenience stores and other appropriate businesses could provide additional client services venues.

It is further recommended that visitors and conservation reserve users and the local population be informed of the significance and sensitivity of the site via factsheets, community visits and other educational or interpretive programs.

6.3 Promote inventory monitoring and assessment reporting and research

Scientific research by qualified individuals or institutions, which contributes to the knowledge of natural and cultural history and to environmental and recreational management, will be encouraged. Requests or applications to conduct research will be filtered through the Sudbury District MNR office to ensure that the studies are non- invasive and that no values will be damaged in the process. Research programs will be subject to ministry policies and other legislation.

Approved research activities and facilities will be compatible with the protection objective. Any inventory, monitoring, assessment reporting (IMAR) or research developments or facilities will not be considered until a Test of Compatibility is conducted and proposal is approved by the Sudbury Area Supervisor. The Test of Compatibility or environmental screening process could include a review of the demand for structures or activities and may require more detailed life or earth science or cultural information and possibly more detailed planning. IMAR will be consistent with provincial/regional protocols and/or strategies. Permanent plots or observation stations may be established to which researchers can return over time. The Sudbury Area Supervisor may approve the removal of any natural or cultural specimen by qualified researchers. Any materials removed will remain the property of the Ministry of Natural Resources. Any site that is disturbed will be rehabilitated as closely as possible to its original state. The Sudbury Area Supervisor may apply additional conditions.

Particular research may focus on the interrelationship with other nearby protected areas – in particular to gauge the effectiveness of isolated protected areas and how these areas need to be connected through supportive landscape management in order to maintain ecosystem health and diversity. Also the effects of straight boundaries versus naturally delineated boundaries should be explored. Further research and monitoring requirements will be determined through forthcoming regional/provincial strategies.

6.4 Implementation and plan review

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve Statement of Conservation Interest will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and as required. Implementation of the SCI and management of the reserve are the responsibility of the Sudbury Area Supervisor. Partnerships may be pursued to address management needs.

Adaptive management strategies will be used in the event of new information that has a significant effect on the current Statement of Conservation Interest. If changes in management direction are needed at any time, the significance of the changes will be evaluated. Minor changes that do not alter the overall protection objectives may be considered and approved by the District Manager without further public consultation and the plan will be amended accordingly. In assessing major changes, the need for a more detailed Resource Management Plan will first be considered. Where a RMP is not considered necessary or feasible, a major amendment may be considered with public consultation. The Regional Director will approve major amendments.

6.5 Marketing

The Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve will be marketed as a distinctive old growth white pine forest growing in conjunction with a valley train and bedrock. Fact sheets will be prepared to inform the public about these values which will be available at the Sudbury District MNR office and Windy Lake Provincial Park as well as possibly at the tourist outfitters. Marketing efforts to increase use are not a priority and will be kept to a minimum.

7.0 References

Barnett, P.J. 1992. Quaternary geology of Ontario, in Geology of Ontario; Ontario Geological Survey, Special Volume 4, Part 2, p.1011-1088.

Boissonneau, A.N. 1965. Surficial geology of Algoma, Sudbury, Timiskaming and Nipissing; Ontario Department of Lands and Forests; Map S465, Scale 1:506 880.

Boissonneau, A.N. 1968. Glacial history of northeastern Ontario: II the Timiskaming- Algoma area; Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences, Vol.5, p.97-109.

Bostock, H.S. 1970. Physiographic subdivisions of Canada; in Geology and Economic Minerals of Canada, Geological Survey of Canada, Economic Geology Report no. 1, p. 11-30.

Burwasser, G.J. 1979. Quaternary geology of the Sudbury area, District of Sudbury; Ontario Geological Survey, Report 181, 103 pp.

Card, K. D., and Innes, D. G. 1981. Geology of the Benny Area, District of Sudbury. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 117 pp.

Clayton, J. S., Ehrlich, W.A., Cann, D.B, Day, J.H. and Marshall, I.B. 1977. Soils of Canada. Volume 1 Soil Report. Research Branch, Canada Department of Agriculture, Ottawa, Canada.

Crins, W. J. 1996. Life Science Gap Analysis for Site District 4E-3. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Internal Report. 251 pp.

Crins, W.J. and Uhlig, P.W.C. 2000. Ecoregions of Ontario: Modifications to Angus Hills’ Site Regions and Districts. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources internal report.

Davidson, R. J. 1997. Completing the Provincial Park System, A Priceless Legacy. Occasional Paper 3. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 23 pp.

Ecoregions Working Group, Canada Committee on Ecological Land Classification. 1989. Ecoclimatic Regions of Canada, Ecological Land Classification Series No. 23. Sustainable Development Branch, Canadian Wildlife Service, Conservation and Protection, Environment Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. 118 pp.

Harris, A.G., McMurray, S.C., Unlig, P.W.C., Jeglum, J.K., Foster, R.F. and Racey, G.D. 1996. Field Guide to the Wetland Ecosystem Classification for Northwestern Ontario. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Northwest Science and Technology. Thunder Bay, ON. Field Guide FG-01. 74 pp. + Appendices.

Hills, G. A. 1959. A ready reference to the description of the land of Ontario and its productivity. Ontario Department of Lands and Forests.

Kor, P.S.G. 2002. Cartier Moraine C202 Earth Science Inventory. MNR internal inventory record.

Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation. (Ferris, N., Ross, B., and Wong, W.) 1997. Conserving A Future For Our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning and Development in Ontario;. Ontario Archaeology Society, Inc. 44 pp.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 1985. Chapleau District Background Information – Historic Use. Sudbury District Office Spanish River Files – 82.3 History and Culture.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 1992. Report on the status of provincial parks in the site regions and districts of Ontario. Parks Environmental Assessment Section, Provincial Parks and Natural Heritage Policy Branch. MNR Internal Report.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 1997a. Conservation Reserves, Policy PL 3.03.05. 8 pp.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 1997b. Conservation Reserves, Procedure PL 3.03.05. 22 pp.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 1997c. Nature’s Best. Ontario’s Parks and Protected Areas: The Framework and Action Plan. 37 pp.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 1999. Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 136 pp.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 2000. Beyond 2000. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 20 pp.

Ministry of Natural Resources. 2001. Planning Process for Conservation Reserves Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) and Resource Management Plans (RMP). Northeastern Region Guidelines. Version 2.1, Unpublished Internal Document, 49 pp.

Morris, E. 2000. Centre Creek Old Pine C206 Life Science Checksheet. MNR internal inventory record. 2 pp.

Noble, T. W. 1983. Life Science Report, Site Region 4E, Northeastern Region. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 150 pp. (with additional pages in checksheets and appendix, 1:250 000 maps).

Rowe, J. S. 1972. Forest Regions of Canada. Department of Fisheries and the Environment Canadian Forestry Service Publication No. 1300. Ottawa, Ontario. 172 pp.

Thorpe, T. 1950. Review of the Logging and Pulp Operations in the Sudbury District During the Years (1901-1950). Ontario Department of Lands and Forests Internal Report. 66 pp.

Wilkie, S. 2000 Spanish Forest, 2000-2020 Forest Management Plan. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Internal Report. 400+ pp. Plus Appendices and Supplementary Documentation.

8.0 Maps

Map 1: Inset of Ontario showing location of Sudbury; larger map showing location of Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve in relation to Sudbury

Enlarge map 1: inset of Ontario showing location of Sudbury

Map 2: Site map of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve

Enlarge map 2: site map of the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve

Map 3: Location of site district 4e-3 (Crins 1996)

Enlarge map 3: location of site District 4e-3

Map 4: Species composition

Enlarge map 4: species composition.

Map 5: Age distribution

Enlarge map 5: age distribution

Map 6: Landforms

Enlarge map 6: landforms

9.0 Appendices

Appendix A: permitted uses table

Permitted uses table for conservation reserves as per policy

Recreation

Trails

Science, education and heritage appreciation

Commercial activities

Resource management

Industrial activities

Other activities

Appendix B: SCI test of compatibility

From the SCI Test of Compatibility NER Guideline in Planning process for Conservation Reserves Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) and Resource Management Plans (RMP) Northeast Region Guidelines Version 2.1 September 17. 2001 Appendix 4, page 44.

Test of compatibility:

1. Conformity to SCI – This is not applicable to evaluating current or new uses that come forward during the SCI planning process. However, the SCI should include a statement that speaks to the required screening of any future use or uses that are not covered in the current SCI.
2. Screening Process – proposed uses for the area must be assessed before they are approved. To establish a minimum standard, NER recommends that the Screening Process identified in Section 4.2 of A Class EA for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Phase IIb: Draft Class EA (subject to approval by MOE) be used to screen projects and options.
   
   The Screening Criteria from the draft Class EA (Table 4.1) is further detailed below within the context of SCI planning.

3. Impact Assessment – the Test of Compatibility from the Conservation Reserve Policy PL 3.03.05 identifies the classes of values and main concepts that need to be considered in determining the impacts of uses on a specific Conservation Reserve. These include:

• Natural heritage
• Cultural
• Research activities
• Current uses
• Area administration
• Accommodating the use outside the CR Socio-economics
• Area accessibility.

The class EA (Table 4.1) presents similar values and concepts under the following considerations:

• Natural environment
• Land use, resource management
• Social, cultural and economic
• Aboriginal

The above considerations and classes of values are meant to assist planning staff in answering the following questions for any potential use:

• Will the new use impact any values within the Conservation Reserve?
• If so how?
• To what degree?
• Is it tolerable?

The new screening process and associated criteria identified in Table 4.1 of the draft Class EA gives planning staff more direction than the Conservation Reserve Policy 3.03.05. However this section attempts to assist planning staff by providing some direction for further interpreting the criteria to complete a Test of Compatibility for uses within a Conservation Reserve.

The following information for each Conservation Reserve is available and can be used to assess the required criteria:

• Background information and current inventory data
• Current inventory evaluations (e.g. earth, life and recreational check-sheets)
• Future ongoing analysis on the site

Interpretation of background information & current inventory data:

Background information files, summaries and other data can be beneficial in determining additional criteria that could be added to or address criteria already mentioned in the EA screening process. Criteria that are linked to habitat needs or specific life or earth science features are often first record during a District’s initial review of a site. Databases such as NRVIS or documents such as Lake Survey files, Site District Reports or Forest Management Plans can identify the location of values and sometimes determine a value’s significance or sensitivities.

Current inventory evaluations:

The most current state of the resource for a specific OLL Conservation Reserve will be the earth, life and recreational check-sheet. These documents determine the current earth and life science values, their present state and their significance. The recreational check-sheets determine current recreational features and current and potential recreational activities and feature significance and sensitivity to present and future uses.

For earth and life science check-sheets, five (5) major sections are completed that include; representation and the quality of the representation (e.g. based on condition, diversity and ecological considerations) and special features. These five categories are reflected within the screening criteria presented in draft Class EA document or could be used to develop additional criteria. Some thoughts concerning the five categories are further discussed below.

Representation:

Representation within OLL inventoried sites contain the type, number, location and shape of the community based values within the Conservation Reserve. For example the number of different forest cover types, wetland and freshwater communities, earth science features or recreational features defined in recreational check-sheets. The survey determines if the values are totally within the site or if the value straddles the site’s boundary? This section and the significance section of the check-sheet can help you define significant earth or life science features, important wildlife habitat, or record the location and extent of old growth within a site or other features. Representation determines not only specific communities or special features but also establishes the core protected areas within the Conservation Reserve, which is a value that has to be protected as well. Finally, any list of screening criteria should mention the affect a potential permitted use may have on the quality of the representation present within the site. The quality of the site’s representation is mentioned in the following three categories below.

Condition:

Condition is the level of natural and human disturbance that the site has experienced to date. The major natural disturbances in Northeast Region include; burned, blown down, flooded or insect effected stands or areas. Human disturbances could include; clear-cut areas, mining related sites, drainage areas, ditches or pits, utility corridors, railways, roads, hiking or ATV trails, assess points, dams, cottages or other facilities on site. Such actions or structures can effect the site negatively by influencing specific special features (e.g. nest sites or wildlife travel corridors) or severing significant communities or the Conservation Reserve’s core protected areas. This section could help interpret the following screening criteria; affect on water quality, specific species or habitat needs or criteria that speak to undisturbed core protected areas. Such core protected areas criteria could include for example - affect a permitted use or potential use has on natural vegetation and habitat through fragmentation or how use could affect easily eroded or sensitive wind blown deposits?

Diversity:

This is a measure of the site’s life and earth science heterogeneity. For earth and life sciences the evaluation is based on the number and variety of natural landscape features and landforms for earth science values and the relative richness and evenness of a site’s life science components. For our life science check-sheet inventory we determine richness by counting the number of vegetative cover types present within a site and evenness as the proportion of each cover type represented within a site. So an OLL site that has many cover types of roughly the same size is more diverse than a site with few cover types or where a site has the same number of cover types but has reduced evenness (e.g. one cover type dominates with the other cover types present but with little area devoted to them). Criteria that speak to all aspects of diversity should be part of any screening process.

Ecological considerations:

This is where we discuss the design of the site, its strengths and weaknesses and potential problems that may arise during planning. Ecological considerations include; size, shape, buffering capacity from adjacent land use activities, watershed location and linkage to the larger landscape. Generally speaking the following are some rules of thumb;

• Larger sites are preferred over smaller sites because of their greater potential for ecological diversity and stability.
• Rounder sites are better than elongated sites for they have more intact core and can buffer adjacent land use activities better than elongated sites.
• Sites that contain headwaters have more control over environmental inputs than sites located down stream.
• Biological boundaries that are linked to larger undisturbed lands are better than cultural boundaries such as roads or railway lines that sever the site from its larger landscape for long periods of time. Cultural boundaries are preferred over vector boundaries that can divide or fragment core protected areas

So by looking at the size, shape and location of a site with respect to its larger environment, planners may be able to address specific screening criteria. Such screening criteria could include; affect water quality or quantity, affect on fish and wildlife habitat and linkages, affect of drainage, sedimentation and erosion, potential long term planning problems because a site is very small in size or linear in shape, etc.

Special features:

Of all the data that is collected within a site, the special features section may be the most easily understood values. Generally landscape and habitat values are mentioned under the representation section of the check-sheet with specific values such as; Old Growth, Species at Risk (SAR), colonial birds, moose aquatic feeding areas, raptor nests, etc. are presented within this section. Data are available from FMP’s or NRVIS databases as well as fish and wildlife files and reports and know recreation values available from District staff. The Class EA screening criteria contains a number of these values.

Note: Within the check-sheets be sure to review the significance level, recommendations and associated documentation listed with any particular check- sheet. For more information on check-sheet development see J.E. Thompson, 2001. Life science check-sheets information template. MNR internal report. 6 pp.

Future ongoing analysis on the site:

If during planning specific information is not available to complete impact assessment analysis, then SCI’s should not the information gap and document the need to collect the required information in the future. In addition, future inventory, monitoring, assessment and research within the Conservation Reserve may also help planners and managers deal with future uses and impact assessments.

Appendix C: public and Aboriginal consultation summary

4.0 Public and aboriginal consultation

1. Site Name and Proposed Size (ha): Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine (163 Ha.)
2. Land Use Strategy Area #: Conservation Reserve C206
3. MNR District: Sudbury District

4.1 Public consultation

Details of public consultation:

• District Manager letter was sent in October 2001 letting stakeholders know that planning was commencing for the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve and to notify us know by mail or phone if they were interested in being contacted when the draft SCI was ready for public review. Adjacent landowners, municipalities and other groups or individuals who may have had an interest in the site were contacted, including the following breakdown:
  • Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
  • Nickel District Conservation Authority
  • Domtar Incorporated
  • Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
  • Ministry of Transportation
  • Local Service Board of Cartier
  • Bell Canada
  • City of Greater Sudbury
  • Spanish Forest Local Citizen’s Committee
  • Inco Limited
  • Partnership for Public Lands
  • 61 interested individuals and/or adjacent landowners

• Newspaper advertisement in October 2001 asking the public to notify us if they are interested in being on the mailing list for review of the draft SCI. The ad appeared in the following papers:
  • Sudbury Star
  • Le Voyageur
• The following summarizes the number of responses received:
  • 29 individuals and/or organizations would like to be notified when the draft SCI is for public review.
• District Manager letter sent in September 2002 letting stakeholders know the draft SCI is ready for public review. Letters were only sent to the 29 individuals and/or organizations that asked to be notified.
• The following summarizes the number of responses received:
  • 6 individuals and/or organizations requested copies of the draft SCI for review.

Summary of significant issues:

No issues were raised.

Analysis of issues:

No issues were raised.

4.2 Aboriginal consultation

Details of Aboriginal consultation:

• District Manager letter sent in October 2001 to initiate consultation with First Nations on the planning on the Centre Creek Old Growth White Pine Conservation Reserve. The letter was sent to the following:
  • Ojibways of Sucker Creek
  • United Chiefs and Council of Manitoulin
  • Wikwemikong Unceded Nation
  • Sheguiandah
  • Zhiibaahaasing
  • McChigeeng
  • Whitefish Lake
  • Sagamok Anishnawbek
  • Sheshegwaning
  • Wahnapitae
  • Wauwauskinga
• The following summarizes the number of responses received:
  • 1 band member from Whitefish Lake First Nation notified MNR that she would be interested in reviewing the draft SCI.
• District Manager letter and a copy of the draft SCI was sent in July 2002 to the following First Nations for comments:
  • Ojibways of Sucker Creek
  • United Chiefs and Council of Manitoulin
  • Union of Ontario Indians
  • Wikwemikong Unceded Nation
  • Sheguiandah
  • Zhiibaahaasing
  • M’Chigeeng
  • Whitefish Lake
  • Sagamok Anishnawbek
  • Sheshegwaning
  • Wahnapitae
  • Wauwauskinga
• The following summarizes the number of responses received:
  • 12 Verbal (phone conversations initiated by MNR)
• District staff met with:
  • Chief of the Ojibways of Sucker Creek (Sept. 12/02)
  • Lands technician from Sagamok Anishnawbek (Sept. 30/02)
  • Robinson-Huron Chiefs (Oct. 16/02)
  • Director of Sustainable Development for Wahnapitae First Nation (Nov. 1/02)
  • Chief of Wikwemikong (Nov. 14/02)
  • Chief of Sheshegwaning (Dec. 3/02)
  • Lands technician from Whitefish Lake First Nation (Jan. 10/03)
  • Lands technician from Wikwemikong First Nation (Feb. 11/03)
• The Chief of Ojibways of Sucker Creek met with MNR staff on September 12, 2002 to discuss OLL. He expressed no concern with the sites being planned for this year for his community but knew there would be an impact at the treaty level. He mentioned that he would speak to the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI) to see if they could provide us with support on OLL. We never heard anything from UOI.
• The Chief of McChigeeng First Nation was contacted by telephone on October 15, 2002 he discussed with Suzanne Arsenault the planning of this year’s OLL sites. He was not concerned with any of them.
• Zhiibaahaasing was contacted by telephone on September 23, 2002 and October 10, 2002 to discuss OLL. The lands technician mentioned he had reviewed the packages sent to the community by MNR and would contact us if the Chief wanted to meet. Despite our attempts no meeting has been scheduled to date.
• Wikwemikong Unceded Nation was contacted by telephone on November 4, 2002 to discuss OLL. At that time we were informed that the Chief would be meeting with our DM the next week. Cindy Blancher-Smith and Bruce Richard met with the chief November 14, 2002 and discussed broadly the projects MNR Sudbury is involved in and how they could participate. The lands specialist met with MNR staff on February 11, 2003 to discuss OLL. A brief overview of OLL was given. He requested that a package be sent to him with a map of all OLL sites in the district, a status list of the sites and a summary of past consultation with his community.
• Wauwauskinga was contacted by telephone on October 10, 2002 and December 9, 2002 to discuss OLL. The lands tech will be speaking to Chief and Council about OLL and will let us know if they want to meet us. Despite our attempts no meeting has been scheduled to date.
• Sagamok Anishnawbek met with MNR staff on September 30, 2002 to discuss OLL. The lands technician mentioned the community would not be interested in the planning of this year’s sites but it is part of the area where they traditionally hunt, fish and collect herbs.
• Sheguiandah First Nation was contacted by telephone on October 1, 2002. The Chief said he would look at the packages sent to him and contact us if he would like to meet. Despite our attempts no meeting has been scheduled to date. Sheshegwaning First Nation was contacted by telephone on September 10, 2002 about OLL. A meeting was scheduled. December 3, 2002 a meeting was held between MNR representatives and the Chief. He did not want to discuss OLL, he was upset with the consultation process to date with respect to the project. He felt OLL was infringing on aboriginal treaty rights.
• Wahnapitei First Nation was contacted by telephone on September 12, 2002 to discuss OLL, a meeting was arranged. MNR staff met with the Director of Sustainable Development on November 1, 2002 to discuss OLL. He had an interest in reviewing 2 of this year’s SCIs for C213 and C166. Whitefish Lake First Nation was contacted by telephone on Nov. 1, 2002 to discuss OLL. The lands technician met with MNR staff January 10, 2003 to discuss OLL. He had no interest in the planning of this year’s sites.
• The Robinson-Huron Chiefs (15 of 19 attended) held a meeting on October 16, 2002 and MNR Sudbury was invited to present all projects in treaty area within the next year. OLL was one of the projects mentioned and there was discussion on the project.

Summary of significant issues:

• First Nations do not consider any contact with MNR consultation.
• First Nations feel the OLL process is flawed. They believe that decisions are already made before consultation begins.
• First Nations feel the OLL process does not respect native culture and their rights.

Analysis of Issues:

None of the above issues can be dealt with through the planning exercise. It is our understanding that the policies which have been developed (and which are fundamentally disagreed with) are not up for further negotiation.

5.0 Recommendations:

Recommend that the statement of conservation interest be approved as the management direction for the conservation reserve.

6.0 Approval of consultation documentation

MNR District Contact Person:
Natalie Avoledo
OLL Planner
Ph: 705-564-7612
Fax: 705-564-7879

Cindy Blancher-Smith
District Manager Sudbury District
Date March 2003

Ontario Parks Contact Person:
N/A

Appendix D: Statement of conservation interest amendments