Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve Management Statement

Statement of Conservation Interest
January 2002

Ministry of Natural Resources
North Bay District

Approval statement

I am pleased to approve this Statement of Conservation Interest for the Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve (CR 31b).

This Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) will provide guidance for the management of the conservation reserve and the basis for the ongoing monitoring of activities.

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 Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve offers an ecologically diverse landscape representative of the Southern Boreal Site Region. Furthermore, it contributes a richness of cultural and social values.

The management and administration of the Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve will be guided by this SCI. 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 Resource Management Plan (RMP) will be prepared with full public consultation.

The direction contained in this SCI is consistent with the Ministry of Natural Resources' (MNR) 1997 Temagami Land Use Plan (TLUP). The public was consulted about this site prior to its regulation during land use planning for the Temagami Comprehensive Planning Area. Comments from that planning exercise were considered during the development of this document. The TLUP provides detailed direction on future uses and resource management targets for this area. No new decisions have been made with regards to the conservation reserve since the approval of the TLUP.

The Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve will be managed under the direction of the Temagami Area Supervisor, North Bay District Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).

Signed by:
D. A. Payne
District Manager Recommendation
For Approval

Date: January 08, 2002

Signed by:
Rob Galloway
Regional Director

Date: January 15, 2002

1.0 Introduction

Ontario boasts a varied and diverse landscape. Many demands are placed on its resources for both social and economic benefit. The current planning process is committed to the protection of natural and cultural heritage values represented throughout the province. The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has developed strategies that will maintain the integrity and sustainability of these areas.

The Temagami Land Use Plan (TLUP) provides direction for the administration and management of parks and protected areas within the Temagami Comprehensive Planning Area. Included in the plan is a natural heritage objective to maintain the full spectrum of the area’s ecological and geographical diversity. Specifically the TLUP protects representative "old growth" red and white pine stands, some watersheds related to Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park, significant wetlands and provincially significant ecological, geological and recreational features.

Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve has been selected as a site representing old growth white pine and black spruce, sensitive wetlands and a provincially significant glacial feature. Further studies are required to identify other possible ecological associations and their significance. In addition, this site fulfills social requirements both locally and provincially.

This 241-hectare conservation reserve is situated in the Northeast Planning Region of the MNR. This parcel of Crown land is located north of the Montreal River within the geographic township of Auld, approximately 30 kilometers west of the town of New Liskeard (see Location Map).

The purposes of this SCI are to;

1. Provide background information and identify and describe the values of the Indian Bay South Conservation
2. Provide guidelines for the management of current and future activities while protecting natural, social, and cultural heritage

This document has been prepared following the format of an SCI, also called a stewardship document. The SCI format was selected since after extensive consultation, no new issues emerged. New uses may be considered, provided they meet the requirements of a Test of Compatibility (Appendix A).

This SCI governs the lands within the regulated boundary of the Indian Bay South 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 this 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., 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.

2.0 Goal and objectives

2.1. Goal of the SCI

The goal of Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve is to protect natural and cultural heritage values on public lands while permitting compatible land use activities.

2.2. Objectives of the SCI

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 statement
• 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 conservation reserve as a potential scientific benchmark
• To identify research/client services and marketing strategies
• To give direction to evaluate future or new 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 Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve. As noted earlier, planning for other activities on the surrounding landscape must consider the protection objectives and values of the site. Any strategies noted within this plan related to the conservation reserve’s boundary or beyond, will be presented for consideration within a larger planning context such as a Forest Management Plan (FMP).

3.1.2 Management planning context

The Comprehensive Planning Council CPC (a citizens advisory group which was directed to submit land use recommendations for the Temagami Comprehensive Planning Area) recommended· Indian Bay be designated as a conservation reserve. This recommendation, along with I others, was submitted in April 1996 and accepted in principle by the government of Ontario in June 1996. The decisions on the recommendations were ultimately reflected in TLUP.

Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve was regulated as a conservation reserve on July 19, 1997 by Ontario Regulation 259/97.

The Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve is designated as Management Area 31(b), page 95 in the TLUP. Lands to the west, outside of the conservation reserve boundary are designated as Special Management Area (SMA) 31(a) in the TLUP, in which mineral extraction is permitted. Mining interests in SMA 31(a) shall comply with special regulations set forth under the Public Lands Act in addition to the Mining Act. These regulations are in place to help mitigate potential impacts to the conservation reserve.

By regulation under the Public Lands Act, lands within conservation reserves cannot be used for mining, commercial forest harvest, hydroelectric power development, the extraction of aggregate and peat or other industrial uses. Impacts of mineral exploration associated with the SMA 31(a) will be minimized and restored upon completion.

Traditional uses within the conservation reserve as noted in the permitted uses table of the TLUP will continue; however, the goal will be to resolve conflicts if they exist between uses and to ensure that identified values are protected.

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 (OMNR 1997). Class Environmental Assessment for MNR Resource Stewardship and Facility Development Projects (OMNR 2001), with accompanying Environmental Checklist or Exemption Order MNR 26/7 for future dispositions. Other protocols may be developed that address site specific sensitivities to identified features.

Consideration for proposals pertaining to cultural resources may be screened through Conserving a Future for our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning & Development in Ontario, Section 3 (MCzCR, 1997) and MNR's AOC Descriptions and Prescriptions (Cultural Heritage Resources) for the 1999-2019 Temagami FMP or its successor.

These planning tools will refine the review process once the proposal satisfies the direction and intent of the TLUP.

3.2. Planning process

Once a conservation reserve is regulated, there is a need to determine the level of management planning required to fulfil the protection targets. There are two policy documents to select from; a Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) or a Resource Management Plan (RMP). A SCI is a stewardship document which generally applies to conservation reserves having no new issue(s), conflict(s) and or proposal(s) beyond what has been previously addressed during land use planning (i.e., TLUP) and, therefore, additional consultation is not needed. A RMP deals with more complex issues and conflicting demands placed upon a protected resource and involves full public consultation.

The guidelines for the preparation of these documents are outlined in Procedural Guideline A-Resource Management Planning (PL 3.03.05, Public Land Act). The appropriate plan is to be completed within three years of the regulation date.

For current planning purposes, the Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve will be managed under the directive of a SCI. The intent of this SCI is to fulfil the commitments made under the Public Lands Act, the TLUP and other associated policies.

In July 1989, in response to growing public concern with respect to the use and management of resources within the Temagami area, MNR announced the Temagami Area Comprehensive Planning Program (CPP). The resulting TLUP was based on advice of the Comprehensive Planning Council (CPC). Through this process, extensive public consultation occurred. Based on past public participation and the fact that the land use direction presented within this SCI does not differ significantly from the TLUP, additional consultation at this time is not needed.

Public consultation will be solicited during the review of any future land use proposals that would require new decisions to be made beyond the intent of the TLUP. Such amendments to the TLUP and this document or its successor will also be posted on the Environmental Bill of Rights registry (EBR).

This SCI is a policy document that will provide background information, identify values to be protected and establish management guidelines for use in the administration of the conservation reserve.

The implementation of the policy will be the mandate of the MNR at the district level; however, associations with various partners may be sought to assist in the delivery. It must be noted that this 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 amendments (see Section 6.5).

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 Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve is a 241-hectare parcel of Crown land situated west of the town of New Liskeard. The conservation reserve is located within Site District 4E-4 (G.A. Hills. 1959 and Grins and Uhlig 2000), and is characterized by a low relief, poorly exposed bedrock terrain overlain by fine­grained glaciofluvial sediments (Kor, 2001).

Much of the boundary is vectored (series of distinct points, which make up a line that defines a portion of a boundary), with the exception of the northeastern section that follows the shores of Pike Lake and an associated creek. This area is part of the Montreal River Watershed and has no headwaters.

Old growth white pine dominates the conservation reserve. The remaining forest composition is made up of a variety of mature and old growth mixed wood stands.

A data review and aerial reconnaissance study by Thompson, 2000 determined that this area may contain a minimum of 13 landform/vegetation combinations and 6 FEC (Forest Ecosystem Classification) classes dominated by dense coniferous forest over moderately broken ground moraine.

4.2. Administrative description

The legal boundaries of the Indian Bay South Conservation Area were certified by the Surveyor General of Ontario in the Ministry of Natural Resources at Peterborough on the 21^st of February 1997. The conservation reserve was passed into regulation on July 19, 1997 (O. Reg. 259/97).

4.3. History of the site

Historically, there has been little human disturbance within the boundaries of this conservation reserve. According to existing forest management records, no logging has occurred in this area since, at least, 1940. Forest fire events have generally been sporadic and of low intensity.

In recent years, an interest by the visiting public and the scientific community has evolved for the natural and social aspects of the conservation reserve by the visiting public and the scientific community. Typically, the conservation reserve is used for outdoor recreational activities and commercial use (i.e., fur and baitfish harvesting), nature appreciation and scientific and educational pursuits.

4.4.1 Inventories

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

5.0 State of the resource

5.1. Representation

The Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve is situated within the Lepha Lake Ice Contact area, a provincially significant glacial formation that encompasses the conservation reserve and a large section of surrounding land. Geological features found here include poorly exposed bedrock terrain overlain by a thin layer of fine-grained glaciofluvial sediments (Kor, 2001). These specific values are considered significant at a local level.

The conservation reserve contains representative old growth white pine stands, which approach 195 years of age and compromise approximately 89 percent of the protected area. As well, there are mixed wood stands that include 115-year old black spruce, 80-year-old jack pine, and 80-year-old poplar and white birch in addition to115-year-old white cedar (Thompson et al, 2001).

Various wetland ecosystems are represented within this conservation reserve. These include a meadow marsh, thicket swamp and open poor fens with low shrubs/graminoids. The Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve is directly associated with, two different aquatic communities, namely Pike Lake and the Montreal River which include a variety of fish species. Wetland habitats also make a significant contribution the overall representation of the site.

5.1.1. Quality of the representation

Protecting the existing quality of individual natural features present in the conservation reserve is as important as protecting the site’s overall representation in the site region. A number of factors were considered in evaluating the quality of conservation reserves representative features. They include diversity, condition, ecological factors, special features and current land use activities.

a) Diversity:

Overall, the diversity within this conservation reserve is considered to be relatively low. This is due to the small size of the conservation reserve, and low richness and evenness expressed by few vegetative cover types (see Forest Values Map). A major contributor to this is the large white pine dominated stand found throughout most of the conservation reserve area.

b) Condition:

While this conservation reserve is quite small (241 ha), it is still in very good condition; though some scattered blow-down was observed during a previous survey. Disturbances in proximity to the conservation reserve are very limited as well. Evidence of timber harvesting can be seen on the eastern side of Pike Lake, and two small parcels of patent land lie adjacent to the boundary; one to the south and the other bordering to the west. These should have no perceived impact on the internal land values.

c) Ecological factors:

The northeastern section of this conservation reserve incorporates a lakeshore and a creek in the design of its boundary. This will help to buffer the conservation reserve from adjacent land uses over time. Additionally, its remote location provides a level of protection. Much of the remaining boundary is vectored therefore some old growth values and sensitive northern wetlands are bisected. Large landscape planning will be needed to protect these sensitive boundaries (Thompson et al, 2001).

d) Special features:

This conservation reserve contains a number of notable features, which possess varying degrees of significance. These features include:

• Lepha Lake ice-contact feature
• Stands of old growth white pine, black spruce and cedar in close proximity to one another
• Sensitive wetland ecosystems in the north

e) Current land use activities:

Presently, several land use activities occur within or are associated with the conservation reserve. Activities include fur and baitfish harvesting, fishing, boating, canoeing, nature appreciation and trail use (e.g., non-motorized and motorized use).

Access to the conservation reserve is easiest by canoe. Pike Lake can be reached by way of portage trails either from the Montreal River to the south (travel northwest from Mowat’s Landing) or Indian Lake to the north. A trail allowing motorized use from Indian Lake also permits access.

Few trails meander through the landscape. Existing trails provide access to old growth forests, scenic vistas and natural ecosystems typical of the region. Hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are activities that occur on these informal trails. Informal campsites also exist within the conservation reserve. Considering the land use intent from the TLUP, the identification and rehabilitation of desirable trails and campsites should occur with importance being placed on low impact, low intensity use. Snowmobile and ATV trails are thought to exist west of the site.

The conservation reserve’s relative proximity to the Montreal River, which is a provincially significant travel corridor, results in it being found in an area of high heritage value. The Montreal River was a major historical travel route for indigenous peoples, explorers and early settlers. In addition, the Montreal River Fault is a prominent geological feature that is noteworthy.

Commercial uses such as baitfish and fur harvesting are administered by the Kirkland Lake District MNR, moose outfitting also occurs in the conservation reserve. It is suspected that these activities are not intense and may have limited conflict with other interests. Recreational hunting is also permitted, with the primary game species being moose, bear and ruffed grouse.

Summary:

The Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve contains a provincially significant geological formation, significant old growth white pine, black spruce communities as well as sensitive wetland formations.

The conservation reserve’s overall diversity, physical condition, design, current, potential recreational and interpretive values are considered significant.

5.2 Social/economic interest in the area

a) Linkage to local communities:

The Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve consists entirely of Crown land with remote access.

It is well suited for outdoor recreation, nature appreciation and educational opportunities. Its remote access affords pristine backcountry experiences for both local residents and the travelling public. In a regional context, the conservation reserve offers natural and cultural heritage features that may generate interest in ecotourism, recreational and tourism markets.

Currently the conservation reserve is available for a variety of recreational pursuits which include; hunting, fishing, trapping, canoeing, hiking, camping, nature appreciation (i.e., viewing of old growth forests, wildlife observation, and photography), boating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and ATV use.

Outdoor education and scientific research potential in the conservation reserve is significant. Future development of the trail system will include an interpretive trail and guide. The white pine and black spruce old growth stands are excellent examples of natural forests, which provide diverse viewing opportunities.

b) Heritage estate contributions:

The Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve contributes to the province’s parks and protected areas system through its regulation, representation and the long­term management of its natural heritage values. Its old growth white pine, black spruce communities and ice-contact feature contribute significantly to the provincial parks and protected areas system. The conservation reserve’s location, design and features make a distinctive contribution to quality recreational experiences that include backcountry trails both within and adjacent to the site, scenic lookouts and lakeshore landscapes. Although rather small in size, it’s circular shape, natural boundaries (e.g., shorelines) buffer adjacent land use activities and allow for a certain level of backcountry opportunity and experiences. Its association with the Montreal River, a regional canoe route, adds to the over-all value of the conservation reserve.

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, its natural features are, and will be available for present and future generations to enjoy and explore.

Long term management must consider public access to the conservation reserve, its protection objectives, and commitments made in the TLUP. 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

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.

Number historic archeological sites have been documented in the conservation reserve, particularly along the shoreline of Montreal River. These and other cultural heritage resources found within Daki Menan are of great importance to the Temagami First Nation (TFN) and Teme-Augama Anishnabai (TAA).

In 1999, Ontario agreed to enter into formal negotiations with the TFN and the TAA on the basis of outstanding treaty obligations consistent with the Supreme Court of Canada’s 1991 Bear Island decision. These negotiations are scheduled to conclude in December 2002.

d) Mining industry:

All mining rights were withdrawn based on the boundaries established in the Temagami Land Use Plan prior to the lifting of the land caution. Minor boundary refinements were required primarily to define the conservation reserve on the ground for regulation purposes. The mining rights were re-withdrawn in January 2001 to be consistent with the boundaries regulated in 1997.

e) Forest management

No commercial timber harvesting is permitted in conservation reserves. Forest activities on the adjacent landscape are guided by the Forest Management Plan (FMP). Based on the current plan (1999-2004), the following provisions apply:

Harvesting, renewal and maintenance activities are permitted up to the conservation reserve boundary. Where the integrity of the boundary may be affected by blowdown (e.g., based on slope, aspect relative to prevailing winds, soils, species, size and type of adjacent cuts, etc.) the need for additional protection will be determined during development and planning of the Annual Work Schedule.

No roads or landings are permitted within 100 m of the boundaries of non­waterway conservation reserves, except where it can be demonstrated no alternative alignments are available and with MNR approval. Roads will be planned to minimize potential access to conservation reserves (e.g., perpendicular to conservation reserve boundaries).

Presently there is no Sustainable Forestry License (SFL) within or adjacent to the conservation reserve. The Crown currently manages the Temagami Forest Management Unit. The North Bay District office (Temagarni Area) administers Forest Resource Licensing (FRL) in this unit.

f) Utilities

There are no commercial utilities located in the conservation reserve. Future proposals regarding utility development will be discouraged.

5.3 Natural heritage stewardship

Preliminary analysis of the life science targets based on landform/vegetation combinations have shown that the conservation reserve contains 7 such combinations, dominated by dense coniferous forest over moderately broken ground moraine (OFRI, 1994) (see Forest Values Map). The most significant features include the old growth stands of red and white pine and black spruce within close proximity to each other, sensitive wetlands in the northern portion of the conservation reserve also, having wetland communities associated with a major river (Montreal river) is a feature that previously was not represented in our parks system.

A recent aerial reconnaissance survey showed no wide spread forest disturbance due to forest harvesting, fire, insect, wind throw, wildlife damage, ice storms or other natural disturbances. Forest harvest was observed on the eastern side of Pike Lake and on patent lands to the east and south of the conservation reserve.

The MNR maintains six Forest Ecosystem Classification plots in the conservation reserve (see Forest Values Map).

The conservation reserve falls within 2JD-01 (Montreal River) watershed and has no associated headwaters. Water levels on Lake Temagami are controlled by Ontario Hydro and fluctuate throughout the year.

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. An aquatic habitat inventory of Pike Lake was performed in 1981. (Pike Lake Fisheries)

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 conservation reserve, their location will remain undisclosed.

5.5 Cultural heritage stewardship

There are no documented or registered sites (MCzCR) linked to historical travel routes and habitation in the Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve. Areas of moderate to high potential cultural heritage do exist and have been mapped through a predictive modeling process. These areas are linked to shorelines and known historic travel routes such as the Montreal River (see Cultural Heritage Values Map).

5.6 Land use/existing development

Crown land recreation is very prevalent in the area. This region supports numerous summer homes and a wide range of recreational opportunities. Since the conservation reserve is somewhat removed from popular travel corridors, its allure for remote experiences is accentuated. To this end, details regarding existing land use are limited, however; no structures or development are present in the conservation reserve.

Mining claims and leases do not exist within the conservation reserve but do exist in the surrounding area. There is no other form of tenure in the conservation reserve other than legal agreements with registered fur trappers, and baitfish licensees.

Traditional uses within the conservation reserve will continue to be permitted; however, the goal will be to resolve conflicts regarding incompatibility between uses and to ensure that identified values are adequately protected. Existing uses are as defined in Section 5.1.1(e)

Trails have largely been developed for motorized access (snowmobile, ATV). These trails are not groomed or commercially maintained. Non motorized trails (i.e. hiking, cross-country skiing) are less frequent and undeveloped. Proposals for new non-motorized trail development, as with all proposals, will be reviewed through a Test of Compatibility (Appendix A).

5.7 Commercial use

Present commercial use activities are illustrated in the Commercial Activities Map. They include one registered fur trapline, which is administered by the Kirkland Lake District MNR. Hunting for other species (i.e., moose) provides some economic benefit to commercial operators in the conservation reserve as well. Auld Township has one commercial baitfish-harvesting licensee; however, this activity occurs outside of the conservation reserve’s boundaries.

5.8 Tourism/recreation use/opportunities

Current uses of this conservation reserve have been described in Section 5.1.1 (e). Presently, there is no known infrastructure supporting any recreational or commercial activity within the conservation reserves' boundaries.

It is believed that Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve supports moderate recreational use. Analysis of the types of activities, their location and intensity have yet to be identified.

During the planning phase for the conservation reserve, no new recreational, ecotourism or tourism initiatives were brought forward for consideration.

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.

6.0 Management guidelines

6.1 Management planning strategies

Commitments identified in previous planning documents TLUP and current policy (3.03.05 PLA) will form the basis for land use decisions within the conservation reserve. Management strategies for these uses must consider the short and long-term objectives for the conservation reserve. For current information on permitted uses, refer to the Crown Land Use Atlas.

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 and future 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

The development of this SCI and the long term management and protection of the Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve will be under the direction of the MNR's North Bay District, Temagami Area Supervisor. The following management strategies have been created to achieve the goal and objectives stated earlier in this stewardship document:

Social/economic

• Management direction will aim to maintain and develop social and economic benefits to local communities where practical
• Local partnerships may be solicited to participate in the delivery of certain objectives identified in this SCI
• Educational opportunities will be developed and encouraged in order to create an awareness of natural systems in the Temagami area

Natural heritage stewardship

• With the exceptions of fire suppression and selective forest pest and disease control, the management intent for the Indian Bay South 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
• Forest ecosystem renewal and maintenance as stated for this conservation reserve under the TLUP will only be entertained via a separate vegetative management plan
• 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
• Defining compatible uses, enforcing regulations and monitoring and mitigating issues will protect all earth and life science features
• New energy transmission, communication and transportation corridors or resource roads or construction of facilities are discouraged within the boundaries of the conservation reserve
• Industrial activities such as commercial timber harvest, prospecting and mining, and new hydro generation will not be permitted within the boundaries of the conservation reserve
• The introduction of exotic and or invasive species will not be permitted
• The collection/removal of vegetation and parts thereof will not be permitted; however, subject to a Test of Compatibility, the Area Supervisor may authorize the collection of plants and/or parts for purposes of rehabilitating degraded sites within the conservation reserve, or the collection of seeds for maintaining genetic stock and/or research
• Permits for fuel-wood will not be issued
• All wildfire occurrences will be considered a high priority and will actively be suppressed until such time as policy directions change
• MNR will provide leadership and direction for maintaining the integrity of this conservation reserve as heritage estate
• 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 solutions should be applied whenever possible. Vegetation maintenance of the existing utility corridor should be encouraged to follow this process where and when feasible
• Detailed ecological surveys concerning ground vegetation and additional plant values assessment - especially concerning species at risk is warranted. Additional plant science inventory should be linked to future recreational needs and possibly regional gap analysis approaches. Assessments should follow future direction and methods established through MNR's Inventory, Monitoring and Assessment Reporting (IMAR) program (see section 6.4)
• 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
• Other activities that do not pass a Test of Compatibility will be prohibited (MNR Policy 3.03.05, 1997)

Fisheries and wildlife

• Additional fish and wildlife population and habitat assessments, especially for species at risk are warranted
• 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 Temagami Area Supervisor. Provincial legislation and policy will dictate management and enforcement objectives for this area
• The management direction will aim to verify species present, ecological function and habitat requirements
• Any fish and wildlife inventory may require a regional gap analysis approach
• Area of Concern (AOC), prescriptions for the protection of fish and wildlife values, developed for forest management purposes, will be used as a guide when considering proposed activities/developments in the conservation reserve
• Hunting and Angling will be permitted within this conservation reserve

Cultural heritage

• Protection of these values will be maintained
• Documented sites will be .checked periodically for signs of degradation. Additional sites will be documented as encountered
• Development, research and education proposals may be considered in accordance with the Test of Compatibility; Conserving a Future for our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning & Development in Ontario, Section 3 (MCzCR, 1997) and MNR's AOC Descriptions and Prescriptions (Cultural Heritage Resources) for the 1999-2019 Temagami FMP or its successor
• Research/education to provide a better understanding of the management and protection of cultural heritage values will be encouraged

Land use/existing development

• 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. Similarly, uses in adjacent lands will be reviewed. If they are found to impact on the conservation reserve, mitigation measures will be explored
• There will be no new motorized trail development, however, non-motorized trail development may be permitted only if the activity passes a Test of Compatibility

Commercial use

• Existing commercial uses such as fur and baitfish harvesting will be monitored in order to ensure they do not unduly deplete natural resources and that they impose a minimal impact on the features identified for protection
• Trapline cabins will not be permitted
• Commercial enterprises offering ecotourism experiences will be encouraged, providing these activities are of low intensity and are compatible with other uses

Aboriginal interests

• Aboriginal and 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 communities

Tourism/recreation

• The earth and life science features and their protection, shall be the overall theme for tourism. The conservation reserve should also be portrayed as providing backcountry experiences near an urban setting
• Small-scale infrastructures for enhancing tourism and recreation (i.e., warm­up shelter) may be considered, providing they pass a Test of Compatibility and other review requirements
• Main base tourism development (lodges) will not be permitted
• Conflict resolution between recreational uses will be a priority. This will be achieved by adhering to the objectives of this SCI with input from relevant user groups
• The level of safety and compatibility between activities will determine permitted uses (i.e., Test of Compatibility)
• Low-impact camping may be permitted
• Degradation of cultural heritage sites in particular will be monitored. If deemed necessary, camping may be prohibited at certain sites in order to protect these values

Client services

• Information regarding the Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve may be delivered from different sources, however MNR will be the lead agency for responding to inquiries regarding access, land use, 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

Presently there are no specific management strategies in place for sub-zones within the conservation reserve.

With the exception of fire suppression, old growth pine ecosystem will be allowed to develop in a natural, undisturbed manner. Any change in management direction for the old growth areas will be addressed with a vegetation management plan.

If deemed necessary to regulate access or use(s) in certain areas, management zones may be developed. These zones will facilitate permitted/restricted activities for the protection of certain features or to resolve conflicts between uses. Zone management will aim to compliment linkages to areas and uses outside the conservation reserve. The creation of management zones will require additional planning beyond this SCI, public consultation and an eventual plan amendment if accepted.

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

There are many opportunities to study and explore the natural systems in the conservation reserve. Since there has been little interference from "outside influences", some features may be observed in a relatively undisturbed state.

Non-destructive research will be promoted as an asset for obtaining an understanding of the natural features and processes in the conservation reserve.

6.5 Implementation, and plan review strategies

This Statement of Conservation Interest will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Implementation of the SCI will include monitoring activities to ensure adherence to management guidelines. A full review will coincide with the review of the Temagami Land Use Plan (next review-2006) and will be done every ten years thereafter.

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 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 management plan 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 conservation reserve’s remoteness, natural heritage representation and recreational opportunities in general. Research and education is a theme that should be incorporated in all promotional strategies.

Partnerships may be fostered to aid in the delivery of this component.

References

Grins, W.J. and P.W.C. Uhlig. 2000. Ecoregions of Ontario: Modifications to Angus Hills' Site Region and Districts- Revisions and Rationale.

Hills, G.A. 1959. A Ready Referen'ce to the Description of the Land of Ontario and its Productivity. Ontario Department of Lands and Forests, Division of Research, Maple, Ontario. 140 pp.

Kor, P.S.G. 2001. Earth Science Checksheet: Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve.

Noble, T.N. 1983. Life Science Report for Site Region 4E. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Sudbury, 90 p. Appendices. 4E Biophysical Map Sheets (1:250,000).

Ontario Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation. 1997. Conserving a Future for Our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning and Development in Ontario. 42 pp.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2001. A Draft Class Environmental Assessment For MNR Resource Stewardship and Facility Development Projects. 76 pp.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1999. Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) Mapping: Indian Bay South. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, North Bay.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1997. Public Lands Directive Manual: Natural Heritage- PL 3.03.05.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1997. Temagami Land Use Plan for the Temagami Comprehensive Planning Area.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1991. Temagami Comprehensive Planning Program (Heritage Component)- Preliminary Review of Heritage Resources.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1988. OMNR: Aerial Photos (1:20,000).

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1987. Assessment of Representative and Special Earth Science Resource Features of the Temagami Planning Area. Volume 2.

Roberts, S.K, and Smith M. 2001. Recreational Inventory Checksheet: Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve.

Thompson, J.E. 2000. Aerial Reconnaissance Survey: Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve.

Thompson, J.E., M. Lajeunesse, J. Joyce and N. Avoledo. 2001. Life Science Checksheet: Indian Bay South Conservation Reserve.

Appendix A. Procedural guideline B - Land Uses - 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 dependent 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

Annual Work Schedule: one-year schedule of forestry operations (i.e. harvest, renewal, tending, road planning etc.).

Ecotourism: responsible tourism that considers the natural heritage values within the conservation reserve and their sustainability as well as taking into account the interests of local communities.

Fen: 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 (Alnus incana), Dwarf Birch (Betula pumila), Bluejoint Grass (Calamagrostis canadensis), assorted sedges, Sweet Gale (Myrica gale) with ericaceous shrubs present - especially in more nutrient poor fens (Harris et al. 1996).

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

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.

Land Caution: Regulation that was adopted sometime in August 1973 that prevented the first registration of title on Crown Land. The land caution was lifted in 1996.

Vector: series of distinct points, which makes up a line that defines a portion of a conservation reserve’s boundary. This artificial boundary is created with the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) computer software.

Maps

Map 1: Location Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Enlarge Map 1: Location Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Map 2: Forest Values Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Enlarge Map 2: Forest Values Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Map 3: Recreational Values Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Enlarge Map 3: Recreational Values Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Map 4: Cultural Heritage Values of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Enlarge Map 4: Cultural Heritage Values of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Map 5: Tenure Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Enlarge Map 5: Tenure Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Map 6: Commercial Activities Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.

Enlarge Map 6: Commercial Activities Map of Indian Bay South conservation Reserve.