Statement of Conservation Interest
November 2004

Prepared by:
Angela Anderson

Wawa District
Ministry of Natural Resources

Approval statement

We are pleased to approve this Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) for the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve (C1505). Direction for the establishment, planning and management of conservation reserves is defined under the Public Lands Act and the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas.

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is located approximately 18 km southwest of the town of Manitouwadge. The conservation reserve (CR) has an area of 2,967 hectares and consists of ground moraine, bedrock, bogs, and various forest cover the majority of which is between 50 and 70 years old. The CR is within the Black River Forest Management Unit in the Wawa District.

The public was invited to comment on the proposed boundary of Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR in November 1999. An opportunity was provided for the public to participate in the preparation of this SCI in January/February of 2002. The public will be invited to comment on the draft SCI. Comments and concerns registered will be reflected in the final Statement of Conservation Interest. A final inspection opportunity will be provided for the public to review the approved SCI document. An interdisciplinary planning team having expertise in forest ecology, biology, land management, and fire management took part in the preparation of this document. A draft was provided to the MNR Regional Planning Unit for review.

This Basic SCI provides guidance for the management of the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve and provides the basis for the ongoing monitoring of activities. More detailed direction is not anticipated at this time. Should significant facility development be considered or complex issues arise requiring additional studies, more defined management direction, or special protection measures, a more detailed Resource Management Plan will be prepared with full public consultation.

The Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is managed under the jurisdiction of the District Manager and the Manitouwadge Area Supervisor, Wawa District, Ministry of Natural Resources.

Submitted by:
Paul Gamble for Angela Anderson
Plan Author

Date: February 25, 2005

Original signed by:
Terry Taylor
District Manager
Recommendation For Approval

Date: February 25, 2005

Approved and original signed by:
Rob Galloway
Regional Director
Northeast Region

Date: April 10, 2005

1.0 Introduction

The purpose of this Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) is to identify and describe the values of the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve. The SCI also outlines the activities that occur within the conservation reserve (CR) and provides guidelines for the management of current and future activities in the context of protecting the natural, social and cultural values of the conservation reserve. A SCI is prepared under the authority of Procedural Guideline A – Resource Management Planning (PL. Procedure 3.03.05) of the Public Lands Act.

Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999) and the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas (updated 2004) outline the general land use policy and management direction for new conservation reserves. Each new conservation reserve will have a planning document, either a SCI or, in more complex situations a Resource Management Plan, that details site-specific management direction.

This Basic SCI provides guidance for the management of the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve and provides the basis for ongoing monitoring of activities. Although more detailed direction is not anticipated at this time, should significant facility development be considered or complex issues arise requiring additional studies, more defined management direction, or special protection measures, a more detailed Resource Management Plan will be prepared with full public consultation.

Conservation reserves protect natural heritage values on public lands while permitting compatible land use activities. 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.

Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy was approved in 1999. The objectives of the Land Use Strategy are to complete Ontario’s system of protected areas; recognize the land use needs of resource-based tourism industry; provide forestry, mining and resource industries with greater certainty around land and resource use; and enhance hunting, angling and other Crown Land recreational opportunities. Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve was created as part of the expansion of protected areas.

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex is a 2976 hectare conservation reserve located 18 kilometers southwest of Manitouwadge. The boundary falls within the Black River Forest Management Unit, Wawa District where there are no surveyed townships (Appendix 8.1). The site contains interesting landform features mixed with forests, lakes, creek systems and wetland complexes. A unique series of linear interconnected lakes in the north end of the CR and a diversity of wetlands particularly in the southeast portion of the CR are special features suitable for protection.

2.0 Goals and objectives

2.1 Goals of Statements of Conservation Interest

The goals of this SCI are:

  • To provide background information
  • To identify and describe the values of the conservation reserve
  • To provide guidelines for the management of current and future activities while protecting natural, social and cultural heritage values

2.2 Objectives of Statements of Conservation Interest

The following objectives are identified as a means to achieve the above goals.

  • To describe the state of the resource with respect to natural heritage values and current land use activities
  • To manage the conservation reserve to protect the integrity of its natural values via specific guidelines, strategies and prescriptions
  • To meet planning requirements by addressing the management intent of the conservation reserve and addressing planning and management needs
  • To create a public awareness of the values within the conservation reserve and promote responsible stewardship of the protected area through partnerships with local stakeholders
  • To determine long-term management goals of the conservation reserve by identifying research, client services and marketing strategies
  • To identify scientific values on the site in relation to provincial benchmarks and identify the necessary monitoring and/or research to maintain the integrity of those values
  • To provide direction to evaluate new uses or economic ventures through the application of a Test of Compatibility (Procedural Guideline B – Land Uses PL 3.03.05 (Appendix 8.2)

3.0 Management planning

3.1 Planning area

Conservation reserves are established by regulation under the Public Lands Act. Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve was regulated as a conservation reserve (Ontario Regulation 686/00) under authority of the Public Lands Act (O. Reg. 805/94) on December 21, 2000. The planning area for this SCI is the regulated boundary of the conservation reserve (there are no Forest Reserves associated with this CR) (Appendix 8.1).

For purposes of Resource Management Planning and for other land uses, particularly for Forest Management Planning, the boundary of the conservation reserve in itself will not be treated as a 'value'. Management Prescriptions presented in this plan will relate to the activities within the conservation reserve, will identify the location, shape, size, significance and sensitivity of natural heritage values, and will identify additional special features within the boundary of the site. Management actions outside the boundary of the conservation reserve will continue to consider the site’s natural heritage features, recreational values and protection requirements within larger landscape plans such as Forest Management Plans.

3.2 Management planning context

The land use intent outlined in Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy 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 (PL Procedure 3.03.05) will form the basis for land use within Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve. For up-to-date information on permitted uses, refer to the Crown Land Use Atlas at www.ontario.ca/page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas.

Existing permitted uses within the conservation reserve may continue, unless they are shown to have a significant negative impact on the values within the site. By regulation, this reserve cannot be used for mining, commercial forest harvest, hydroelectric power development, peat/aggregate extraction or any other industrial use. The conservation reserve has been withdrawn from the Black River Forest Sustainable Forestry License (SFL) and commercial forestry will no longer occur within its regulated boundaries. Existing activities, such as sport fishing and hunting and existing bear management will continue to be permitted. Fish and wildlife management activities will generally occur in a manner similar to surrounding crown lands.

Proposed uses and development within the conservation reserve will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. See section 6.0 and Appendix 8.3 for more details.

3.3 Planning process

The level of management planning required to fulfill the protection targets is determined by the complexity of issues that need to be addressed. This SCI will only address known issues or current proposals with respect to permitted uses or potential economic opportunities brought forward during the planning process. Future proposals for development or land use will be reviewed through a Test of Compatibility.

The planning process for the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve involves three public consultation phases. In January 2002, notices appeared in the Wawa, Manitouwadge and Marathon newspapers advising that planning for the CR was being initiated and inviting the public and interested organizations to supply background information and viewpoints. There was also a direct mail out to the public and to organizations known to be interested in or affected by the conservation reserve at this time. Comments received during the Lands for Life process, and during consultation related to the formal regulation of the boundaries of this site were generally supportive of this area as a conservation reserve.

Notices will invite anyone interested to request a copy of the draft Statement of Conservation Interest during a one month review period from the end of December 2004 to the end of January 2005. Any comments, including input from previous consultation, will be considered in the finalization of this document. MNR district and regional staff will also review the SCI.

The final public consultation phase will be an inspection of the MNR-approved Statement of Conservation Interest. Following this consultation, the plan will be implemented.

Notices will not be placed on the Environmental Registry because this SCI is not considered a policy under the Environmental Bill of Rights.

4.0 Background information

4.1 Location and site description

The Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is situated approximately 18 km southwest of the town of Manitouwadge, east of Highway 614. The irregular shaped boundaries scatter westward outlining Swede Lake, southward across Lineal Creek, eastward beyond Ishkodewabo Lake, and northward to Snowball Lake (Appendix 8.1). Access to the CR is limited to aircraft or by foot via several trails off Highway 614. Location and administrative information is presented in Table 1.

Table 1: Location and administrative details for Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve

Territorial DistrictThunder Bay
OMNR Region/DistrictNortheast/Wawa
TownshipUnorganized
Ecoregion/Ecodistrict(Crins, 2000)3W (Lake Nipigon)/3W-5(Geraldton)
Regulation DateDecember 21, 2000
Total Area2,967 hectares
OwnershipCrown
UTM Coordinates5430342N 33552E
Map Number(s)42C/13 (White Lake) 42D/16 (Good)
Nearest Town/CommunityManitouwadge
OBM Numbers2016570054100 - 2016570054200
Wildlife Management Unit21B
Forest Management UnitBlack River Forest

The Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve exhibits an extraordinary example of a glacier scour eroded fracture system in the bedrock, which created a long lake/creek formation in the north end of the CR. Swede Lake, Lineal Lake and an unnamed lake are interconnected with creek gullies running parallel in a southwest to northeast direction (Burkhardt, 2002). Another feature of this CR is the large area and diversity of wetland complexes especially the complex associated with Ishkodewabo Lake. The overall diversity of the site is considered to be moderate. A fire in 1936 burned most forest stands in the conservation reserve leaving the area with even aged stands throughout (Burkhardt, 2002).

The conservation reserve is located in Ecodistrict 3W-5 which is characterized by smooth to gently rolling bedrock plain, and low ridges of loamy till and sand/silt esker trains (Crins, 2000). Extensive bedrock terrain, including Bedrock Outcrop (Unit 1) and Bedrock-Drift Complex (Unit 2ac) shape the surficial geology of this CR (Kristjansson, 2002). The site also contains ice-contact stratified drift deposits with a layer of glaciolacustrine sediment, glaciolacustrine sediment, and organic deposits (Kristjansson, 2002).

The forest climate type is dry-humid, mid boreal (Crins, 2000). Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR is in the Abitibi Upland physiographic region; demonstrating a broad rolling landscape reaching 457.2 meters (1500 feet) above sea level (Bostock, 1970). The CR is located in the major drainage area of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence System, the sub drainage area of Northeastern Lake Superior, and the sub sub drainage area of the Pic River (watershed code 02BB) (OMNR, 1974).

The conservation reserve is located in the Central Plateau section of the Boreal Forest Region (Rowe, 1972). The Forest Resource Inventory (FRI) data for this site primarily shows black spruce dominant conifer, black spruce predominant conifer and white birch mixed wood communities. Jack pine communities also exist within the conservation reserve. The majority of the site is composed of forests between 50 and 70 years old (FRI corrected to 2004) with a few old growth stands intermixed. The even age of the stands is the result of a forest fire in 1936 (Burkhardt, 2002).

4.2 History of the site

The conservation reserve is within the Pic River First Nations traditional land use area; however, there are no known values at this time. The site is in the area covered by the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI) and the Robinson-Superior Treaty area.

Disturbance in the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is minimal; there have been no roads, cabins or past forest operations within the boundaries of the CR (Burkhardt, 2002).

4.3 Inventories

Table 2 illustrates the inventories/surveys completed for Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR, as well as any future requirements for earth and life sciences, cultural, recreational or other categories. The detailed Earth (Kristjansson, 2002) and Life Science Checksheets (Burkhardt, 2002), and sections 4.1 and section 5.0 describe the key features of the CR.

Table 2: Inventory and survey information for Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve

Survey levelEarth scienceLife scienceCulturalRecreational
ReconnaissanceKristjansson, F.J., 2002, Earth Science Planning Summary Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve (C1505)Burkhardt, B., 2002, C1505 Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve Planning Life Science Checksheet.Big Pic and Black River Cultural Heritage Sites (1980) and Native Values Maps Manitouwadge Area (2001)East, S., 2004, Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve (C1505) Recreation Resource Inventory Report.
DetailedNoneNoneNoneNone
RequirementNoneRecommend further reviewNoneRecommend monitoring

5.0 State of the resource

This section will identify the state of the resource within, bordering or crossing the boundary of the site. The state of the resource will include the natural heritage values present within the site and those values that are adjacent to but within the CR boundary or that may cross the conservation reserve’s boundary within the general use area where an artificial vectored boundary exists. Current land use activities including tenure and past and current development within the planning area will also be discussed.

5.0.1 Features represented in this conservation reserve

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is comprised of forest lands, lake and creek systems, and wetland complexes. This site was originally captured for mixed conifer, sparse forest with cut and burns on moderately broken ground moraine and mixed deciduous forest with cut and burns on weakly broken ground moraine (Ritchie, 1998). The forest features have changed since original interest was expressed. Areas of sparse forest or stands less than 20 years of age are no longer visible (Burkhardt, 2002). The FRI data shows black spruce dominant conifer well dispersed throughout the site, black spruce predominant conifer are almost as dominant and are also well dispersed. White birch mixedwoods are also a dominant stand and are mainly represented in the south-eastern portion of the reserve. One old growth black spruce conifer mixed stand can be found within the CR however it is split by the vectored boundary on the west side (Burkhardt, 2002).

Landforms in the site are dominated by bedrock terrain including bedrock outcrop and bedrock-drift complex (Kristjansson, 2002). There are also areas of ice-contact stratified drift deposits with a layer of glaciolacustrine sediment, glaciolacustrine deposits, and organic deposits associated with lowland areas dispersed throughout the site (Kristjansson, 2002).

Wetlands are a key feature of this conservation reserve. Ishkodewabo Lake is surrounded by a wetland complex comprised of sedge shore fens (sedges with hummock patches), low shrub shore fens (floating mats of sedges and leather leaf with some stunted black spruce at the drier edges), moderately rich fen (tamarack-black spruce/shrub), and treed bog (black spruce and tamarack) (Burkhardt, 2002). Other wetlands in the site include a thicket swamp, low shrub shore fens, conifer swamps, meadow marshes, open low shrub bogs, treed fens, and tall shrub shore fens (Burkhardt, 2002). All lakes in the CR are brown in colour and clear. Swede and Lineal Lake are classified as coldwater fisheries lakes.

5.0.2 Quality of features represented

The quality of the representation and the current characteristics of the natural features found within the conservation reserve are as important as the overall representative features that are being protected. A number of factors are considered in the evaluation of the site, including; diversity, ecological factors, condition, special features and current land use activities.

Diversity

Diversity is a measure of the site’s life and earth science variability. It is based on the number and variety of natural landscape features and earth science values. Original diversity analysis was based on a 2734 hectare site in which 24 landform/vegetation combinations were found (Burkhardt, 2002). More recent data using the current site area has yet to be determined. Original analysis found 5 landform types and 7 vegetation classifications. Mixed and dense coniferous stands were the most common (60%) forest community. The overall diversity of this conservation reserve is considered to be moderate; however, diversity is expected to increase once a landform/vegetation analysis is complete using the sites current size (Burkhardt, 2002).

Ecological factors

Ecological factors are significant to the quality of representation within the reserve and include size, shape, sensitivity to potential disturbances, and current linkages to the larger landscape.

The current boundary of the conservation reserve captures many of the landform and vegetation communities within the site. There are vectored boundaries along both the eastern and western sides that intersect a number of substantial forest communities and geological features. Vectored boundaries can weaken the site’s ability to protect against adjacent land uses. Protection of features could be improved by adding more area to the south-western vectored boundary. Additions to the conservation reserve would improve hydrology and enhance the protection of features such as the old growth forest (Burkhardt, 2002). Future activities around the conservation reserve should be monitored carefully through sustainable management planning such as the Black River Forest Management Plan.

Condition

Disturbance within the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is ranked as low. The area was previously burnt by wildfire in 1936 resulting in the even aged forest stands. The site has also been affected by the birch skeletonizer (Buccalatrix canadensilla), a white birch pest (Burkhardt, 2002). There have been no roads, cabins or past forest operations in the site. The lack of man-made disturbances and the size of the conservation reserve allows for good protection of features and a high quality of representation.

Special features

There are no known significant wildlife features or habitat for vulnerable, threatened, or endangered (VTE) species in the conservation reserve. Interesting glacial features include a glacial scour creating the long lake/creek formation characterizing Swede and Lineal Lakes which run parallel in a southwest to northeast direction. The wetland complexes are special features that would require further study to determine presence of or potential habitat for VTE species.

Current land use activities

Current land use activities are limited to trapping, fishing and hunting (East, 2004). The area is difficult to access; currently only by air or foot.

5.1 Social/economic interest in the area

Linkage to local communities

This conservation reserve contributes to the local community by providing an ecosystem that supports the production of wildlife. Local trappers, hunters and fishermen who harvest within the site indirectly benefit the local community economy.

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is located in close proximity to Pan Lake Fen Provincial Park. Future opportunities to link the recreational value of these two areas may also contribute to the local communities.

Heritage estate contributions

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR contributes to the province’s parks and protected areas by preserving a number of natural heritage values mentioned in the previous section (5.0). The lack of industrial disturbance and current land use in the CR will help to ensure that fragile vegetation communities, significant geological features and waters are protected into the future. Furthermore, the site’s distinctiveness as a record of glacial recession may distinguish this site as an important scientific benchmark in the years to come. Future managers will have to balance the need to maintain the quality of the current representation and the needs of present and future users.

Aboriginal groups

The conservation reserve is within the Pic River First Nations traditional land use area; however, there are no known values.

Mining industry and ministry of northern development and mines

This conservation reserve has no mining tenure within it. According to the 1998 MNR Blob Report (E11), mineral resources in the site were unknown or low.

5.2 Natural heritage stewardship (vegetative/plant community management and earth science value protection)

The life science targets achieved by the creation of this site are currently unknown because of recently redefined Ecodistricts (Burkhardt, 2002). A new gap analysis should be completed in order to determine the significance of the conservation reserve. The earth science features found in the CR are commonly found throughout the region and are therefore considered locally significant (Kristjansson, 2002).

There is no present monitoring or research program being conducted in conjunction with this conservation reserve.

Current fire management is concurrent with that practiced on adjacent crown land. Management strategies are described in section 6.2 State of the Resource Management Strategies. Insect damage to white birch trees by the birch skeletonizer (Buccalatrix canadensilla) has been recognized in the conservation reserve. No management plan has currently been initiated to control damage caused by this pest.

Lake surveys in which water quality data was collected have been done on Lineal and Swede Lakes in the past. Continued monitoring or further studies on these lakes or other lakes have not been identified.

5.3 Fisheries and wildlife

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve is home to large wildlife species such as black bear and moose. The conservation reserve is also inhabited by a number of small game species such as snowshoe hare, beaver, and otter. The CR has also been designated as a core pine marten area in the Black River Forest Management Plan. Inventories have not been conducted to verify the other wildlife species that may utilize this site.

Lake surveys done on Lineal and Swede Lakes have identified some fish species present in these two lakes. Lineal lake contains white sucker, northern redbelly dace, blacknose shiner, spottail shiner, pearl dace, other dace species, brook stickleback, ninespine stickleback, trout-perch, yellow perch, and Iowa darter. Swede lake was found to contain no sport fish. Brook trout are likely present in creeks surrounding these lakes (Pers. Com. Dave Arola, 2004); however, this is not confirmed.

There have been no inventories performed for vulnerable, threatened and endangered species at risk. Additional studies and subsequent development of protection/restoration plans would be conducted if warranted.

5.4 Cultural heritage stewardship

There are no known archaeological or cultural heritage values in the conservation reserve. Given the lack of evidence of prehistoric use, and the curtailment of industrial activities, an archaeological survey is not necessary at this time.

5.5 Land use/current or past development

As described in previous sections, past land use has been low, and there are no known developments on site. The conservation reserve rests on Crown Land and is unencumbered by any land use permit, leases or mining claims. No further management actions, such as acquisitions or restrictions on existing use, are required.

5.6 Commercial use

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR is within one active bear management area (BMA) (TR-21B-32). It is unknown to what extent the area within the conservation reserve is used to hunt bear. This site is also within 4 traplines; WA126 in the south west, WA127 in the west, WA140 in the north east, and WA141 in the south east. Returns may include species such as snowshoe hare, beaver and otter. Two baitfish areas also come within the boundaries of the conservation reserve (TR-42 and TR-43).

There is no other known commercial use associated with this area.

5.7 Tourism/recreation use/opportunities

Tourism and/or recreational opportunities in this conservation reserve are currently very low due to its inaccessibility. There is however potential for this type of use to develop in the future. Some trails have been blazed in association with traplines that may potentially be used for hiking trails. Hiking trails and canoe routes could potentially be developed in the future and campsites could be cleared to allow for backcountry camping experiences.

There are no current proposals submitted for recreational development.

5.8 Client services

No infrastructure or interpretive facilities are proposed for the site. Informal wildlife viewing and nature appreciation can continue without further development.

6.0 Management guidelines

6.1 Management planning strategies

The land use intent outlined in Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy and the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas 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 (PL Procedure 3.03.05) will form the basis for land use within Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve. For up-to-date information on permitted uses refer to the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas at /page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas. See Appendix 8.3 for a summary of permitted uses in Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve.

Existing permitted uses within the conservation reserve may continue, unless they are shown to have a significant negative impact on the values within the site.

Proposed uses and development within the conservation reserve will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. A Test of Compatibility (Appendix 8.2) 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 of Natural Resources (MNR), partner organizations and/or proponents may undertake such studies. Applicable environmental assessment requirements will also be met according to A Class Environmental Assessment for MNR Resource Stewardship and Facility Development Projects (upon its approval, A Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves will apply). Authorization for potential compatible uses will be in the form of a Land Use Permit or a Licence of Occupation.

6.2 State of the resource management strategies

Natural heritage stewardship – vegetative/plant community management and earth science value protection

This conservation reserve will be managed by allowing vegetative communities to develop naturally while existing traditional and recreational uses continue. Monitoring of sensitive wetland complexes may be necessary depending on the degree of recreational use.

The MNR recognizes fire as an essential process fundamental to the ecological integrity of conservation reserves. In accordance with existing Conservation Reserve Policy and the Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario, forest fire protection will be carried out as on surrounding lands.

Whenever feasible, the MNR fire program will endeavor to use "light on the land" techniques, which do not unduly disturb the landscape, in this conservation reserve. Examples of light on the land techniques may include limiting the use of heavy equipment or limiting the number of trees felled during fire response efforts.

Opportunities for prescribed burning to achieve ecological or resource management objectives may be considered. These management objectives will be developed with public consultation prior to any prescribed burning, and reflected in the document that provides management direction for this conservation reserve. Plans for any prescribed burning will be developed in accordance with the MNR Prescribed Burn Planning Manual (OMNR, 1997), and the Environmental Assessment Act (R.S.O. 1990, Chapter E.18).

Personal use permits for wood harvesting are not permitted. Salvage of standing, fallen, or sunken dead trees will not be permitted, except when authorized in conjunction with approved maintenance activities.

The collection/removal of vegetation and parts thereof (including Taxus Canadensis) will not be permitted. However, subject to a Test of Compatibility (Appendix 8.2), the Area Supervisor may authorize the collection of plants and/or parts for the purposes of rehabilitating degraded sites within the reserve if required and for research or scientific study.

Forest renewal by artificial means will not be appropriate for a natural area. Similarly control of native pests will not be permitted. Programs may be developed to control invasive non-native forest insects and diseases in the conservation reserve where these threaten significant values in or adjacent to the site. Where insects or disease threaten significant values, in or adjacent to the site, control will be directed as narrowly as possible to the specific insect or disease. Biological control will be used whenever possible. If this circumstance should arise the control method would undergo a Test of Compatibility (Appendix 8.2).

All earth and life science features will be protected by defining compatible uses, enforcement direction through applicable legislation, and monitoring and mitigating issues. Industrial activities such as; timber harvesting, prospecting, mining, and new hydro generation will not be permitted within the boundaries of the conservation reserve. Energy transmission, communication and transportation corridors or resource roads or construction of facilities are discouraged, through existing planning process. Exceptions based on a Test of Compatibility (Appendix 8.2) may be made for minor structures.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources will provide leadership and direction for maintaining the integrity of this site as a natural heritage estate. Research, protection education and understanding and interpretation of the natural heritage features of the site will be encouraged and fostered through local and regional natural heritage programs and initiatives.

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 Manitouwadge Area Supervisor. Provincial legislation and policy will dictate management and enforcement objectives for this area.

Existing hunting and sport fishing will be permitted for outfitters and the general public. No new commercial outfitting, outpost, hunting camps or new trap cabins will be permitted within the boundaries of the conservation reserve. The introduction of exotic and/or invasive species will not be permitted.

Cultural heritage

Should the MNR consider new structural development, significant clearing of vegetation or altering of land within this conservation reserve, the MNR will adhere to the cultural heritage resource screening process as is identified in its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Culture (MCL). While the purpose of this MOU is to provide a process to identify and protect cultural heritage resources when the MNR is reviewing work permits or disposing of Crown rights under the authority of the Public Lands Act, the considerations and criteria would also enable the MNR to identify high potential cultural heritage areas for other purposes within conservation reserves. If the screening process indicates that the site of a proposed activity is within an area of high cultural heritage potential, the MNR will consult with the MCL to determine the appropriate cultural heritage assessment requirements and will ensure a preliminary archaeological assessment if appropriate.

All aboriginal and treaty rights will continue to be respected and are not affected by the establishment of this conservation reserve.

Any future proposals or decisions that have potential impact(s) on the individual or aboriginal or community values will involve additional consultation with the affected aboriginal groups.

Social/economic

Under the Ontario Living Legacy Land Use Strategy, mining and related access will be allowed in a forest reserve (FR). For those activities that could negatively influence the natural heritage values within the FR and/or the CR, the district will work with the proponent to identify and mitigate potential mining or natural heritage concerns.

Mining will not occur in any portion of the regulated conservation reserve boundary.

Land use/past and existing development

Conservation reserve regulations do not permit mining, commercial forest harvesting, hydroelectric power development, the extraction of aggregate and peat or other industrial uses (Public Lands Act, Ontario Regulation 805/94).

The sale of Crown Lands within the conservation reserve is not permitted.

New recreation camps will not be permitted however; existing recreation camps will be permitted to continue. Existing camps may be eligible for "enhanced" tenure, but are not eligible for purchase of land. There are two forms of enhanced tenure that may be considered:

  1. Upgrade in the nature or type of tenure (e.g. from Land Use Permit to a lease);and/or
  2. An extension in the term of the tenure (e.g. from 1 year to 10 years)

Applications for enhanced tenure will be approved if determined acceptable using a screening criteria. A change in tenure does not convey a commitment to provide for, or agree to, a change in the type or the standard of existing access to the recreation camp.

Unauthorized occupations of lands within the conservation reserve will be handled in accordance with approved policy, and any required structural removal will be at the owner’s expense.

New roads for resource extraction and/or private use will not be permitted, nor will additions to existing roads or upgrading of existing private roads be permitted.

New trails are not encouraged, however they may be considered when compatible with other recreational uses and the maintenance of environmental integrity. Any new trail development must go through a Test of Compatibility (Appendix 8.2) to ensure the quality of the life and earth science representation and any additional values (e.g. aesthetics, landscape views, sensitive areas) are maintained.

Use of existing authorized ATV and snowmobile trails will be permitted to continue as long as they do not impair the natural features and values for which the area is identified and there are no significant environmental impacts. Consideration for new ATV and snowmobile trails will occur on a case-by-case basis. Public consultation will be an important part of the process. Non-trail snowmobile and ATV use will be permitted only for the direct retrieval of game and/or bait.

The use of existing unauthorized trails will be monitored to ensure that conservation reserve values are not being adversely impacted. Depending on the results of the monitoring, some of the unauthorized trails may need to be redirected from sensitive areas or eliminated completely.

The district may sometime in the future consider developing a trails strategy to ensure the values within the conservation reserve are fully protected while maintaining current permitted uses to occur.

Facility infrastructure and development for recreation may be considered in the future if there is a demonstrated need for such facilities. A more detailed management plan would be required prior to construction.

Commercial use

Existing non-industrial commercial uses such as trapping and baitfish harvesting will be permitted to continue. Renewals and transfers will also be permitted. These 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.

New non-industrial commercial activities (i.e. traplines) that overlap with the conservation reserve may be considered subject to a Test of Compatibility, consistent with provincial direction. Any new trails associated with the new non-industrial commercial activities must also be considered subject to a Test of Compatibility.

Existing commercial bear hunting operations are permitted to continue but the introduction of new operations will not be allowed. Lapsed BMA's will not be reactivated, and transfer requests will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

Commercial wild rice harvesting will not be permitted. Other commercial food collection will also be prohibited; particularly mechanical blueberry harvesting methods that can damage plants and deplete the crop available for recreational pickers.

Tourism/recreation

Tourism proposals will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and approved if compatible with natural values and other uses that may exist at the time.

Blueberry picking and other food gathering will continue to be permitted on a recreational basis.

Client services

The focus will remain on low key information and self-interpretation of conservation reserve features. Messages should focus on the area’s natural heritage features, recreation opportunities, nature appreciation and education.

At the present time there are no plans for structural development within this conservation reserve.

6.3 Specific feature/area/zone management strategies

The Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR has not been delineated into zones for management of a specific resource. The site’s primary value is a representation of a variety of wetland complexes, which should be analysed for provincial significance and managed accordingly. Research in the CR will be encouraged, and some research activities could conceivably require special conditions such as elimination of noise or restrictions on harvesting of wildlife. Zoning of the CR for management of special features will require an amendment to this SCI.

There are no known specific features in the conservation reserve that require special attention or management at this time.

6.4 Monitoring, assessment and research

The undisturbed forest communities within the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve could provide the MNR or associated partners with potential sampling and/or monitoring areas within Ecodistrict 3W-5 (Burkhardt, 2002). Further review is recommended for the inventory and monitoring of life and earth science, and recreational features within the conservation reserve.

Consideration will be given to inventory and documentation of natural and cultural values, and the assessment of use/activity impacts. All research will be carried out in a non-destructive manner. Research proposals must follow Procedural Guideline C – Research Activities in Conservation Reserves (PL 3.03.05).

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.

6.5 Implementation and plan review strategies

Management of the CR will be done largely using a "hands-off" approach. For the short term, the forest community will develop without intervention, and low impact activities described in the plan will continue. Emphasis will be placed on awareness information highlighting conservation reserve values and appropriate uses.

Priorities will include:

  • Maintaining the quality of life science representation features, such as the wetland complex surrounding Ishkodewabo Lake, while providing for the needs of recreation and other users
  • Monitoring impacts of existing recreation use on the conservation reserve to ensure adherence to the management guideline and mitigating any negative effects
  • Working with adjacent SFL holders and stakeholders to protect important values (e.g. old growth forest) that are cut as a result of the vectored boundaries

Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve SCI will be reviewed on an ongoing basis as there is no formal review or expiry date for the document. This SCI will be amended through a standard process of minor and major amendments. Minor amendments will be processed in a relatively informal manner and will require the approval of the Manitouwadge Area Supervisor. These amendments will deal with uses and activities that do not affect any of the policies in this SCI (e.g. new uses and/or activities that are consistent with existing permitted uses).

Uses and/or activities that were not anticipated in the approved SCI and which may have an impact on the values of the conservation reserve will require a major amendment. In assessing major changes, the need for a more detailed Resource Management Plan will first be considered. This will include an opportunity for public comment and input and will require the approval of the Wawa District Manager and the Regional Director.

This SCI or future RMP, if required, plus the Crown Land Use Atlas and associated website (www.ontario.ca/page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas)will be amended to reflect any changes in management direction.

6.6 Marketing strategies

The site will be more generally promoted as part of the Parks and Protected Areas initiative, and at the current time information on the Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR is available worldwide on the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas website at (www.ontario.ca/page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas).

Nearby Pan Lake Fen Provincial Park may be a useful tool for making park users aware of Isko Dewabo Lake Complex CR. Alternatively, White Lake Provincial Park or Neys Provincial Park could also be used to try and promote the conservation reserve to their users.

Marketing activities will be kept to a minimum and there are no plans to actively promote the area for research or commercial purposes such as tourism at this time.

7.0 References

Bostock, H.S. 1970. Geology and economic minerals of Canada – Part A.

Burkhardt, B. 2002. C1505 Ishkodewaba Lake Complex Conservation Reserve Planning Life Science Checksheet.

Crins, W.J. 2000. Ecoregions of Ontario: Modifications to Angus Hill’s Site Regions and Site Districts – Revisions and Rationale.

East, S. 2004. Isko Dewabo Lake Complex Conservation Reserve (C1505) Recreation Resource Inventory Report.

Kristjansson, R. 2002. Earth Science Planning Summary Isko Dewabo Lake Complex (C1505).

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 1997. MNR Prescribed Burn Planning Manual

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 1974. Watershed Divisions Algoma, Sudbury and Timiskaming.

Ritchie, G. and J.E. Thompson. 1998. Lands for Life Natural Heritage Reference Binder. Boreal East Planning Area.

Rowe, J.S. 1972. Forest Regions of Canada.

8.0 Appendices

8.1 Maps

8.1.1 Recreation inventory map

Recreation inventory map of Isko Dewabo Lake Complex.

This is a recreational inventory map of Isko Dewabo Lake Complex

Enlarge recreation inventory map of Isko Dewabo Lake Complex.

8.1.2 Site location map

Site location map of OLL Locations

This is a site location map of Ontario’s Living Legacy locations

Enlarge site location map of OLL Locations

8.2 Procedural guideline B – land uses – test of compatibility

(PL 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, and, 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/RMP: 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/RMP for the conservation reserve? Would the new use(s) depart from the spirit of appropriate indicator land uses in the SCI/RMP?"

  2. Impact Assessment: If the proposed use(s) pass test 1 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 an historical or archaeological values in the area?"
    • Impact on research activities: "will the new use(s) affect 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 on 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 new use(s) affect the community(ies) surrounding the area in a positive or negative way?" (For example, will the new use make an 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?"

8.3 Summary of permitted land and resource uses

UsePermitted newPermitted existing
Commercial timber harvest, commercial hydro developmentNoNo
Mineral exploration and miningNoNo
Bait fishing, commercial fur harvestingMaybeYes
Sport huntingYesYes
Sport fishingYesYes
Seasonal recreation camps ("hunt camps")NoYes
Commercial bear huntingNoYes
Tourism facilities (for resource based tourism) and recreational trailsMaybeYes
Land dispositionNoYes
RoadsNoYes
Energy transmission and communications corridorsNoYes
Commercial food harvestingNoNo
ATV and snowmobile use on trailsMaybeYes