Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve Management Statement

Statement of Conservation Interest
February 2003

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
North Bay District

Executive Summary:

Approved Statement of Conservation Interest for Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve (C182).

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve has been selected as a site representing overmature jack pine with a white pine understory. This conservation reserve offers an undisturbed conifer forest, which is a late winter concentration area for moose. This conservation reserve is 319 hectares in size and falls within the geographic townships of Pardo, Hobbs, Dana and McWilliams. The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve is located approximately 30 km west of Marten River at the intersection of the four townships.

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve is one of 378 new protected areas approved through Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999), a strategy aimed in part, at completing Ontario’s system of parks and protected areas. The site was regulated under the Public Lands Act on December 07, 2002 by Ontario Regulation 313/02.

Once a conservation reserve is regulated, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) will complete one of two approved planning documents, either a Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) or a Resource Management Plan (RMP). Both documents address the administration of landuses and activities that occur within the regulated boundaries of the conservation reserve. The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve experienced no new issues, conflicts, uses and/or proposals beyond those addressed during land use planning for the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy. As a result, a SCI was completed. For conservation reserves having more complex issues, a RMP would be required.

When considering future permitted uses and/or developments, these must be consistent with the SCI. New uses are evaluated within the context of, but may not be limited to; Test of Compatibility (see Appendix A), and appropriate Environmental Assessment (EA) requirements. Other protocols may be developed that address site specific sensitivities to identified features.

The goal of the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve is to protect natural heritage features while permitting compatible land use activities.

The purposes of this SCI are to:

1. Provide background information and identify and describe the values of the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve; and
2. Provide guidelines for the management of current and future activities while protecting natural, social, and cultural heritage value

During the Lands for Life planning process, the public was widely consulted and provided valuable input into what became Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999). Comments received during that time, and consultation related to the formal Public Lands Act regulation of the boundaries of this conservation reserve, were generally supportive of the protection of this area.

This SCI will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Implementation of the SCI will include monitoring activities to ensure adherence to management guidelines. Should significant facility development be considered or complex issues arise requiring additional studies, further management direction or special protection measures, this SCI will be amended or a more detailed RMP will be prepared with full public consultation.

The district will evaluate the significance of any required changes. Minor changes, which do not alter the overall intent of this SCI, may be considered and approved by the District Manager without further public consultation and the SCI will be amended accordingly. In assessing major changes, the need for a more detailed resource management plan (RMP) will first be considered. Where a RMP is not considered necessary or feasible, a major amendment may be considered with public consultation. Such amendments will also be posted on the Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR) registry. The Regional Director has approval authority for any major amendments for this SCI.

The management and administration of the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve will be guided by the SCI and administered by the North Bay District MNR, Tomiko Area Supervisor. The SCI governs the lands within the regulated boundary of the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve; however, to ensure MNR protection objectives are being fully met within the conservation reserve, activities on the surrounding landscape must consider the site’s objectives and heritage values. In addition, it is the intent of the SCI to create a public awareness that will promote responsible stewardship of protected areas and their surrounding lands in Ontario. With management partners such as Ontario Parks, industry, local governments, etc., the ministry will be able to pursue and advance sound environmental, economic and social strategies and policies related to the protection of this conservation reserve.

Approval Statement

I am pleased to approve this Statement of Conservation Interest for the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve (C182).

This Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) will provide guidance for the management of the conservation reserve and the basis for the ongoing monitoring of land use and resource activities. This conservation reserve is one of 378 new protected areas approved through Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999), a strategy aimed in part, at completing Ontario’s system of parks and protected areas.

During the Lands for Life planning process, the public was widely consulted and provided valuable input into what became Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999). Comments received during that time, and consultation related to the formal Public Lands Act regulation of the boundaries of this conservation reserve, were generally supportive of the protection of these areas.

Direction for establishing, planning and managing conservation reserves is defined under the Public Lands Act and current policy. "Ontario’s network of natural heritage areas has been established to protect and conserve areas representative of the diversity of the natural regions of the province, including species, habitats, features and ecological systems which comprise that natural diversity." (Policy 3.03.05, MNR 1997). The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve offers a landscape with representative life and earth science features, of which the most notable is the overmature jack pine (over 100 years old) with white pine understory.

The management and administration of the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve will be guided by this SCI. Although significant changes to the current pattern of land use activities and resource management practices are not envisioned, more intensive recreational activity and/or scientific study and resource management practices may require a change in management direction and potentially amendments to this plan.

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve will be managed under the direction of the Tomiko Area Supervisor, North Bay District, Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).

Dave Payne
District Manager Recommendation
For Approval

Date: February 28, 2003

Rob Galloway
Regional Director

Date: May 30, 2003

1.0 Introduction

Ontario boasts a varied and diverse landscape. Many demands are placed on its resources for both social and economic benefit. The value of these resources was recognized as part of the preparation of Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999) for the management of 39 million hectares of Crown lands and waters in a planning area covering 45% of the province. This strategy is committed to completing Ontario’s system for protected areas, recognizing the land use needs of the resource-based tourism industry and enhancing angling, hunting and other Crown land recreation opportunities.

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve has been selected as a conservation reserve as part of this strategy. The preparation of a Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) is a means in which to identify the values of this conservation reserve and to set out guidelines for the management of current and future activities while protecting the natural, social and cultural heritage values of the conservation reserve.

This document has been prepared in accordance with MNR's Policy for Conservation Reserves (PL 3.03.05). In addition to recognizing a number of existing uses, this SCI provides the opportunity for new uses, which may be considered, provided they meet the Test of Compatibility, set out in the MNR policy (see Appendix A).

This SCI governs all lands within the regulated boundary of the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve. MNR recognizes the need to work with other Ministries and/or proponents of adjacent land use activities, to encourage minimizing the potential risk of negative impacts on the conservation reserve.

It is recognized that public awareness and public education will play a role in the stewardship of all protected areas and it is essential to pursue and promote sound environmental, economic and social strategies to reinforce the principles of wise stewardship.

2.0 Goals and Objectives

2.1 Goals of the Statement of Conservation Interest

The goals of the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve SCI are to provide background information, to identify and describe the values of the conservation reserve and provide guidelines for the management of current and future activities while protecting natural, social and cultural heritage values.

2.2 Objectives of the Statement of Conservation Interest

2.2.1 Short Term

• To identify the State of the Resource with respect to natural heritage values and current land use activities for the conservation reserve.
• To manage the conservation reserve to protect the integrity of its natural values via specific guidelines, strategies and prescriptions detailed in this plan.
• To meet planning requirements by designing this SCI document to address the immediate planning and management needs of the conservation reserve.

2.2.2 Long Term

• To establish representative targets (e.g. future forest conditions) and validate the site as a potential scientific benchmark.
• To identify research/client services and marketing strategies.
• To give direction to evaluate future new or economic ventures (i.e. through use of a Test of Compatibility evaluation).

3.0 Management Planning

3.1 Planning Context

3.1.1 Planning Area

The planning area for this SCI is the regulatory boundary of the conservation reserve. As noted earlier MNR encourages the consideration of conservation reserve values in land use and resource management activities on the surrounding landscape. Any strategies noted within this plan related to the conservation reserve boundary or beyond, will be presented for consideration within a larger planning context. The forest management planning process is an example of how adjacent land management may consider features within the conservation reserve boundary.

3.1.2 Management Planning Context

Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999) provides the context for planning for protected areas within the system of parks and protected areas. The categorization of land use areas, their associated goals, objectives and permitted uses are reflected in this SCI. Conservation reserves, which are created by regulation under the Public Lands Act, are managed by policies and procedures set out in the Conservation Reserves Policy and Procedure (1997).

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve was regulated as a conservation reserve on December 07, 2002, by Ontario Regulation 313/02.

When considering future permitted uses and/or development(s), there are established mechanisms in place to evaluate these proposals. These include, but may not be limited to Procedural Guideline B - Land Uses - Test of Compatibility, Policy PL 3.03.05 (MNR 1997) (Appendix D); and all current Environmental Assessment (EA) requirements, with accompanying Environmental Checklists. Other protocols may be developed that address site specific sensitivities to identified features within the conservation reserve.

Consideration for proposals pertaining to cultural heritage resources may be screened through the Ministry of Culture; Conserving a Future for our Past: Archeology, Land Use Planning & Development in Ontario, Section 3,"Reviewing Development Applications for Archaeological Conservation Purposes, " (formerly MCzCR, 1997) and MNR's AOC Descriptions and Prescriptions.

3.2 Planning Process

Once a conservation reserve is regulated, there is a need to determine the level of management planning required to fulfil protection targets. The SCI is a directional document that provides background information, identifies values to be protected and establishes management guidelines for the conservation reserve. The SCI was selected since there were no new issues beyond those addressed during land use planning for Ontario’s Living Legacy or during consultation prior to site regulation.

The implementation of policy will be the responsibility of the MNR at the district level. Associations with various partners may also be sought to assist in the delivery of the management program for the conservation reserve. It should be noted that the SCI is a working document and it will be necessary to make revisions to it from time to time. If changes are required, they will occur through a standard process of minor or major amendment.

4.0 Background Information

4.1 Location and Site Description

4.1.1 Location

The following table describes the location and provides administrative details of the conservation reserve:

4.1.2 Site Description

4.1.2.1 Physical Description

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve is a 319 ha parcel of Crown land located in the northeast corner of the Sudbury site district 5E-4, approximately 30 km west of Marten River. It straddles the geographic townships of Dana, Pardo, Hobbs and McWilliams The southern portion within Dana and McWilliams are within the Municipality of West Nipissing. The northern portion is in the unorganized townships of Pardo and Hobbs.

The conservation reserve in an undisturbed state and is not easily accessed. There are no roads or trails to access the conservation reserve. There is a secondary road to the north of the site, and some trails leading to the northeastern boundary, but there is no established access to the conservation reserve.

This conservation reserve is comprised of rolling hills, cliffs and ridges covered with overmature jack pine with a white pine understory. Most of the pine is overmature, over 100 years old. The ridges and hills run northeast to southwest across the site with pockets and valleys between the ridges occupied by grassy and shrubby fens. A few small ponds fill larger depressions. In places, the bedrock drops off steeply to open water or wetlands. Strips of poor swamp containing larch, black spruce and balsam fir typically occupy the transition zone surrounding lowland areas (Merchant, 2002).

There is low diversity of vegetation within Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve. The wetlands within the site are comprised of poor fens and swamps (see Appendix B). The upland areas support jack pine and white pine. There are some areas of younger jack pine and white pine found near the southern boundary of the conservation reserve, but the trees are still mature. These conifer stands are late-winter concentration areas for moose.

4.2 Administrative Description

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve was passed into regulation on December 07, 2002, by Ontario Regulation 313/02.

4.3 Inventories

The following table indicates what survey work has been done within the conservation reserve and what is required:

5.0 State of the Resource

5.1 Representation

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve typically exhibits stands of overmature jack pine with white pine understory over 100 years old. The conifer stands are found on upland ridges and hills covered with shallow till. The jack pine with white pine understory support late-winter habitat for moose. Poor fens and swamps containing larch, black spruce and balsam fir dominate the depressions between the hills (Merchant, 2002).

In larger depressions between ridges there are some small ponds which are identified as moose aquatic feeding areas. The life science diversity in the site is low. The upland areas are covered in jack pine and white pine forest. The wetlands are poor fens or swamps (see Appendix B).

According to Kristjansson (2002), areas of bedrock drift and organic deposits underlie the conservation reserve. Bedrock ridges with lowlands between hills are characteristic of this conservation reserve. There is moderate bedrock exposure associated with discontinuous forest cover. Many lowland areas contain minor organic deposits.

5.1.1 Quality of the Representation

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

(a) Diversity

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve has poor diversity in regards to vegetation. As mentioned previously, the upland areas consist of even-aged jack pine and white pine stands. There are some areas of younger mature jack pine and white pine in the southern end of the conservation reserve.

(b) Condition

The upland forests show little signs of disturbance. There are no trails or roads leading into the conservation reserve, so access is limited. There are no buildings located within Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve.

There is a road north of the site with trails leading to the northeastern corner of the site. These trails are overgrown and do not enter the conservation reserve, but provide limited ATV access. The conservation reserve is relatively undisturbed as a result of the limited access.

(c) Ecological Factors

The design of Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve’s boundaries have not used any roads or trails. As a result, there is limited disturbance within the conservation reserve. The fens within the conservation reserve are susceptible to damage by all-terrain vehicles (Merchant, 2002). Landscape planning considerations will have to ensure that the moose late-winter concentration areas are protected. The boundaries of the late-winter concentration areas extend beyond the conservation reserve’s boundaries.

(d) Special Features

The special features in this conservation reserve are associated with the extensive areas of overmature jack pine with white pine understory (Merchant, 2002). The conifer stands are used as late-winter moose concentration areas. This conservation reserve is of moderate recreational importance for hunting based on signs of hunting activities in the surrounding area. The area has high archaeological potential within the n'Daki Menan homeland of the Teme-Augama Anishnabai.

(e) Current Land Use Activities

The location of this conservation reserve, relative to access roads and trails, does not allow for easy access for potential users. Known uses in Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve are hunting, trapping and baitfishing.

The conservation reserve is within two bear management areas (NB-41-25, NB- 41-34), and is accessible for hunting. One registered trapline also encompasses the conservation reserve (NB-05). Additionally, the conservation reserve is located within three commercial bait harvesting blocks.

None of the land use activities have notable impacts on the internal values of the conservation reserve.

There are no mining, timber harvesting, aggregate extraction or utility activities within the conservation reserve. However, these activities may occur on adjacent lands.

(f) Summary

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve contains overmature jack pine with white pine understory, which is used by moose as late- winter concentration areas. The area is comprised of rolling hills, cliffs and ridges. There is little human disturbance in the conservation reserve due to limited access. The conservation reserve is used for recreational activities such as hunting and trapping. The area has high archaeological potential.

5.2 Social/Economic Interest in the Area

(a) Linkage to Local Communities

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve consists entirely of Crown land. The lack of formal access routes results in limited recreational activity within the conservation reserve. Some hunting, trapping and baitfish harvesting is carried out within the conservation reserve, but generally the site is relatively undisturbed.

(b) Heritage Estate Contributions

The Dana Township Jack Pine Forest 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.

By allocating these lands to the parks and protected areas system through regulation, the province has ensured a certain level of permanence by distinguishing the conservation reserve and its values from the larger general use or more extensively managed landscape. In addition, the conservation reserve’s natural features are, and will be available for present and future generations to enjoy and explore.

The conservation reserve’s ecological features make a number of contributions to the province’s natural heritage estate. Its jack pine and white pine forests contribute to the provincial parks and protected areas system.

Long-term management must consider public access to the conservation reserve and its protection objectives. Future managers will have to balance between maintaining the quality of the current representation and the needs of recreational and other users.

(c) Aboriginal Groups

All Aboriginal and treaty rights will continue to be respected throughout the implementation of this SCI. Any future proposal(s) and/or decision(s) that have potential impact(s) on the individual aboriginal values and/or communities will involve additional consultation with the affected aboriginal groups.

(d) Mining Industry

There are no known current mining interests related to the conservation reserve. Mining and surface rights have been withdrawn from staking within the conservation reserve’s boundaries under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 Chapter M.14).

(e) Forest Management

No commercial or personal use forest harvesting is permitted in conservation reserves. Commercial harvesting is permitted in adjacent areas, which form part of the Nipissing Forest Management Plan. Harvesting activities are subject to Forest Management Plans approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

(f) Utilities

There are no commercial utilities associated with the conservation reserve.

5.3 Natural Heritage Stewardship

Analysis of vegetative communities found within this conservation reserve show low diversity (Merchant, 2002). There has been no recent widespread disturbance due to forest harvesting, insect, fire, wind throw, wildlife damage, ice storms or other natural disturbances.

5.4 Fisheries and Wildlife

There have been no detailed wildlife studies undertaken within the conservation reserve, with the exception of some values monitoring. The importance of the conservation reserve to wildlife species has yet to be determined, particularly for those species, and habitats thereof, that may be vulnerable, threatened or endangered. However, this conservation reserve provides ideal permanent and seasonal habitat for a number of furbearers, waterfowl and other species. Specifically, this conservation reserve contains late-winter concentration areas for moose and moose aquatic feeding areas.

Should any vulnerable, threatened or endangered (VTE) wildlife and/or plant species be identified within or adjacent to the conservation reserve, their value will be protected. Although the species may be identified as residing within the site, their location will remain undisclosed.

5.5 Cultural Heritage Stewardship

The conservation reserve has high potential cultural heritage value. This area is n'Daki Menan homeland of the Teme-Augama Anishnabai. There are no archeological sites identified within the conservation reserve but there are some high potential heritage areas (see cultural heritage values map). High potential cultural heritage areas are identified using a computer based predictive modeling program. Based on a series of pre-defined parameters, the program identifies candidate areas, which are most likely to be culturally significant.

5.6 Land Use/Existing Development

There are no permanent buildings, developments, patents or land use permits (LUPs) within or adjacent to the conservation reserve.

5.7 Commercial Use

Present non-industrial commercial uses include trapping, baitfish harvesting and bear management areas.

5.8 Tourism/Recreation Use/Opportunities

Recreational activities such as hunting and trapping occur within the conservation reserve. Access to the conservation reserve is limited. There is a trail leading to the northeast corner of the conservation reserve.

5.9 Client Services

Presently, client services include district responses to public inquiries. No formal information or interpretive facilities currently exist within the conservation reserve. There are fact sheets available to the public, which summarize information for this conservation reserve.

6.0 Management Guidelines

6.1 Management Planning Strategies

The land use intent outlined in Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (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 the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve. Management strategies for these uses must consider the short and long-term objectives for the conservation reserve. For up to date information on permitted uses refer to the Crown Land Use Atlas.

The conservation reserve will be managed by allowing natural ecosystems and associated processes to occur naturally, with minimal human interference.

Proposed uses and development will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. A Test of Compatibility, (Procedural Guideline 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 or future land use activities. Therefore, any application for new specific uses will be carefully studied and reviewed. The Ministry, partner organizations and/or proponents may undertake such studies.

6.2 State of the Resource Management Strategies

Administrative responsibility for the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve lies with the MNR's North Bay District, Tomiko Area Supervisor. Implementation of this SCI will primarily involve monitoring activities to ensure adherence to the management guidelines. The following management strategies have been created to achieve the goals and objectives stated earlier in this directional document:

Social/Economic

• The management direction will allow for the ongoing economic benefits derived from bear management, baitfish harvesting and trap line activities, which may occur in the conservation reserve.
• Educational opportunities may be developed and encouraged in order to create awareness of natural systems in the area.

Natural Heritage Stewardship

• Regeneration or naturalization of natural forested ecosystems is an essential part of the overall long-term management prescription applied to this protected area. Renewal of natural forested ecosystems can be prescribed through the application of a range of fire responses and or approved prescribed burning activities.
• MNR recognizes the need for forest fire disturbance to maintain certain types of ecosystems. These accepted disturbances are part of the life regeneration cycle of our natural forested landscape.
• The principles of sensitive "Light on Land" fire suppression techniques will be practiced, where possible, in the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve. Fire response initiatives can include full, modified and monitored response depending on the anticipated fire impacts on the site, adjacent property, local infrastructure and the protected resource.
• Fire Management Plans, will be developed for specific conservation reserves, where the use of fire is required to ensure the long-term health and viability of the protected area. Detailed conservation reserve "Fire Management Plans" will be considered when the Provincial Forest Fire Management Strategy is approved.
• 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. All scheduled prescribed burns (PBs) within the boundaries of this conservation reserve will be conducted as directed by the current PB Policy AF.03.23.02.
• With the exceptions of fire suppression and selected forest pest and disease control, the management intent for the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve is to allow for natural ecosystems, processes and features to operate undisturbed with minimal human interference while providing educational, research and recreational activities.
• All earth and life science features will be protected by defining compatible uses, enforcing regulations and monitoring and mitigating the impacts of land use activities.
• Permits for fuelwood will not be issued.
• Other activities that do not pass a Test of Compatibility will be prohibited (MNR Policy 3.03.05, 1997).
• 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. Biological or non-intrusive solutions should be applied wherever possible.
• The collection/removal of vegetation and parts thereof will not be permitted; except, subject to a Test of Compatibility, the Area Supervisor may authorize the collection of plants and/or parts for purposes of rehabilitating degrade sites within the conservation reserve, collecting seeds for maintaining genetic stock and/or research.
• 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.

Fisheries and Wildlife

• Fish and wildlife resources will continue to be managed in accordance with policies and regulations prevailing in the area and under the direction of the Tomiko Area Supervisor. Provincial legislation and policy will dictate management and enforcement objectives for this area.
• The management direction will endeavor to verify wildlife species present, ecological functions and habitat requirements,
• First Nation Treaty rights will be respected (see Aboriginal Interests).
• Current Area of Concern (AOC) guidelines, as a minimum, will be applied to all activities/development affecting fish and/or wildlife values.
• Sport hunting will be permitted within the conservation reserve.
• The recovery of threatened or damaged ecosystems will occur whenever possible (maintain biodiversity).

Cultural Heritage

• There is no known cultural heritage resources on site, although recognition will be given to the high archaeological potential of the site as homeland of the Teme-Augama Anishnabai.
• Should cultural heritage values be identified within and or associated with the conservation reserve they will be documented as encountered, and the protection of these values will be maintained.
• Research/education to provide a better understanding of the management and protection of cultural heritage values will be encouraged.

Land Use/Existing Development

• The management direction is to provide for land use activities, which complement and support educational and conservation objectives.
• Existing land uses and development within the conservation reserve that conflict with the protection objectives (Test of Compatibility) will be identified and discontinued if impacts can't be mitigated.

Commercial Use

• Existing non-industrial commercial uses such as trapping, baitfish harvesting and the operation of bear management areas will be permitted. Such activities will continue to be monitored in order to ensure they do not deplete natural resources and that they impose a minimal impact on the features identified for protection.
• There are no known current mining interests related to the conservation reserve. Mining and surface rights have been withdrawn from staking within the conservation reserve’s boundaries under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 Chapter M.14).
• Industrial activities such as commercial timber harvest, mining and hydro development will not be permitted within the conservation reserve.
• New trap line cabins will not be permitted.
• Commercial enterprises offering ecotourism experiences will be permitted providing these activities are low in intensity and are compatible with other uses.

Aboriginal Interests

• Aboriginal treaty rights will continue to be respected throughout the management of this SCI. Any future proposal(s) and or decision(s) that have potential impact(s) on individual aboriginal values and/or communities will involve additional consultation with the affected aboriginal groups.

Tourism/Recreation

• The earth and life science features and their protection shall be the overall theme for tourism.
• Non-trail snowmobiling or ATV use may be permitted for retrieval of game only.
• Conflict resolution between recreational uses will be undertaken, where necessary and with input from relevant user groups.

Client Services

• Information regarding the Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve may be delivered from different sources, however, MNR 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.

6.3 Specific Feature/Area/Zone Management Strategies

Over the long term, management of the mature jack pine and white pine forest may be enhanced through undertaking more specific inventories and developing vegetative management plans.

6.4 Promote Inventory, Monitoring, Assessment and Reporting (IMAR)

Since there has been relatively little human disturbance in most parts of the conservation reserve, some features may be observed in a pristine state. Non-destructive research will be promoted as an asset for procuring an understanding of the natural features and ecological functions of the conservation reserve and their comparative value to other conservation reserves and/or to landforms bordering the conservation reserve.

6.5 Implementation and Plan Review Strategies

This SCI will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Implementation of the SCI will include the monitoring of activities to ensure adherence to management guidelines.

Implementation of the SCI and management of the conservation reserve are the responsibility of the Tomiko Area Supervisor of MNR (North Bay). Partnerships may be pursued to address management needs. If changes in management direction are needed at any time, the significance of the changes will be evaluated. Minor changes, which do not alter the overall intent of the SCI, may be considered and approved by the District Manager (North Bay) without further public consultation and the SCI will be amended accordingly.

In assessing major changes, the need for a more detailed resource management plan (RMP) will be considered. Where a RMP is not considered necessary or feasible, a major amendment may be considered with public consultation. Such amendments will also be posted on the Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR) registry. The Regional Director has approval authority for any major amendments to this SCI.

6.6 Marketing Strategies

Messages should focus on the area’s natural heritage features representation, recreation opportunities, nature appreciation and education. Since access is generally limited, the strategy should indicate options for future use.

References

Chambers, B.A., Naylor, B.J., Merchant, B. and Uhlig, P. 1997. Field Guide to Forest Ecosystems of Central Ontario.

EMR Canada. 1995. Topographic Map 1:50,000. Glen Afton. Sheet 41 I/9.

Gosselink, J.G. and W.J. Mitsch. 2000. Wetlands, Third Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Harris, A.G., S.C. McMurray, P.W.C. Uhlig, J.K. Jeglum, R.F. Foster and G.D. Racey. 1996. Field Guide to the Wetland Ecosystem Classification for Northwestern Ontario. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, pp 74.

Kristjansson, F.J., October 2002. Earth Science Inventory Checklist- Preliminary Notes.

Merchant, B., October 2002. Draft Life Science Inventory Checksheet.

Noble, T.W., March 1991. Assessment of Natural Areas and Features for the Northern Portion of the Southern Boreal Forest Region Site Region 5E.

NTS Topographic Mapping.

OMNR. July 1999. Ontario’s Living Legacy, Land Use Strategy. Queen’s Printer.

OMNR. 1997. Public Lands Directive Manual: Natural Heritage- PL 3.03.05.

OMNR. 1989 Aerial Photos.

OMNR. North Bay District. 2002. C182 Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve File.

OMNR. 2002. DRAFT -Old Growth Forest Definitions for Ontario Version 1.0.

Sheppard, C., September 2002. Field Reconnaissance Notes.

Sheppard C., September 2002. Recreation Inventory Checklist- Dana Township Jack Pine Forest Conservation Reserve.

Appendix A

Procedural Guideline B – Landuses – Test of Compatibility

Public Lands Act Policy PL 3.03.05 (procedure 3.03.05)

The Conservation Reserve policy provides broad direction with regard to the permitted uses. The policy provides  only an indication of the variety of uses that will be considered acceptable in Conservation Reserves. The only caution is that "any new uses, and commercial activities associated with them will be considered on a case by case basis, they must pass a test of compatibility to be acceptable". What does a "test of compatibility" mean?

An examination of this must start from the premise of why an area is set aside – specifically, its representative natural heritage values. Criteria are then identified to guide compatibility considerations. These criteria apply to the long term acceptability of both existing uses and new uses.

1. Conformity to SCI: SCI describe values for which an area has been set aside and the range of appropriate uses that will be permitted in the area. SCI may also speak to the acceptability of other "new" uses currently not occurring in the area.

   The first "test" is: "do proposed new land uses and/or commercial activities conform to the direction of the SCI for the Conservation Reserve? Would the new use(s) depart from the spirit of appropriate indicator land uses in the SCI?"

2. Impact Assessment: If the proposed use(s) pass test one it is important to determine their impact on the area before they are approved. This should include the following:
   • Impact on natural heritage values: "will the new use(s) impact any natural values in the area? If so, how and to what degree? Is it tolerable?"
   • Impact on cultural values: "will the new use(s) impact any historical or archaeological values in the area?"
   • Impact on research activities: "will the new use(s) affect any research activities in the area?"
   • Impact on current uses: "will the new use(s) have any negative impact on the array of current uses?"
   • Impact on area administration: "will the new use(s) increase administrative costs and/or complexity?" (For example, the cost of area monitoring, security and enforcement).
   • Impact of accommodating the use outside the Conservation Reserve: "Could the use(s) be accommodated as well or better outside the Conservation Reserve?"
   • Impact on socio-economics of the area: "will the use(s) affect the community(ies) surrounding the area in a positive or negative way?" (for example, will the new use make the area less remote thereby affecting a local tourism industry that is dependant on the area’s remoteness for its appeal)?
   • Impact on area accessibility: "does the new use(s) give someone exclusive rights to the area or a portion of the area to the exclusion of other existing uses?"

Appendix B

Glossary of Terms

Biodiversity: The total variability of life on Earth, including the diversity of genes, species and ecosystems.

Fen: ¹ Peatland with water table at or above the surface with very slow water movement through communities via seepage that results in a more mineral, nutrient and oxygen- rich environment than bogs. Generally fens contain peat accumulations greater than 40 cm deep. Sometimes floating mat with sedges, mosses, shrubs and sparse tree layer present. Indicator plants include; Larch (Larix laricina) and Eastern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis) over Black Spruce (Picea mariana), Speckled Alder (Calamagrostis canadensis), assorted sedges, Sweet Gale (Myrica gale) with ericaceous shrubs present – especially in more nutrient poor fens.

IMAR: An integrated, ministry-wide framework for Inventory, Monitoring, Assessment, and Reporting that supports the management of our natural resources in an ecologically sustainable way.

Poor fen: Wetlands generally contain greater amounts of black spruce than cedar and larch as well as ericaceous shrubs and sphagnum or peat mosses.

Swamp:² Wetland dominated by trees or shrubs.

Wetland:³ Generally they have the presence of shallow water or flooded soils for part of the growing season and have organisms adapted to this wet environment, and have soil indicators of this flooding such as hydric soils.

Appendix C

Ontario’s Living Legacy (OLL) Conservation Reserve Permitted Use Table

Table 4: Summary of Permitted Uses in Conservation Reserves within the Planning Area

This table is from the 1999 Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy, page 24.

The Public Lands Act, specifically, Conservation Reserve Policy PL 3.03.05 and the Crown Land Use Atlas govern uses and management activities not listed in this permitted use table.

Appendix D

Public Lands Act Policy (3.03.05) Conservation Reserve Permitted Use Table

Indicator Uses for Conservation Reserves

Recreation

Science, Education & Heritage Appreciation

Commercial Activities

Resource Management

Industrial Activities