Statement of Conservation Interest
March 2002

Dryden District
Ministry of Natural Resources

Approval Statement

We are pleased to approve this Statement of Conservation Interest for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve (C2346).

This Statement of Conservation Interest will provide guidance for the management of the Conservation Reserve and form the basis for 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 Conservation Reserve Management Plan will be prepared with full public consultation.

The Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve will be managed under the jurisdiction of the Wabigoon Area supervisor, Dryden District, Ministry of Natural Resources.

Signed by:
Ralph Wheeler
Regional Director
Northwest Region
Ministry of Natural Resources

Date: June 28, 2002

Signed by:
R.G. McColm
Dryden District Manager
Ministry of Natural Resources

Date: June 24, 2002

1.0 Background information

The purpose of this document is to identify and document the natural heritage values of the Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve, the activities that occur there and, through a set of management guidelines, lay out the activities that will and will not be permitted. For more information regarding this Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) please refer to the "Conservation Reserve Policy and Procedure PL3.03.05".

Table 1.1: Background information for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve.

NameKapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve (C2346)
Site Region / Site District4S-5
OMNR Administrative Region / District / AreaNorthwestern Region / Dryden District / Wabigoon Area
Total Area (ha)176
Regulation DateAnticipated for 2002
First NationsWabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, Aboriginal People of Wabigoon, Eagle Lake First Nation, Naotkamegwanning First Nation (Whitefish Bay)
OBM20 15 4700 54600 / 20 15 4700 54700
Lat. /Long.49 23' / 93 19'
Basemap494932
General Location DescriptionLocated approximately 75 km southwest of the City of Dryden, 40 km south of Vermillion Bay between Kapesakosi and Bait Lake.
AccessThere is no road or water access. The reserve may be accessible during the winter months via snowmobile.

Figure 1: General location of Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve. For a more detailed map of site location see Appendix A.

This map provides a general location of Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

Enlarge figure 1

Table 1.2: Representation Targets – Summary of earth science, life science, cultural resource values and present or possible recreational opportunities.

Life Science RepresentationUpland Forest:
Mixed forest – red/ white pine dominant
Mixed forest – black spruce dominant
Mixed forest – birch dominant

Wetlands:
fen – leatherleaf, bog laurel, few-seeded sedge and Sphagnum moss.

Animal Species:
Evidence of moose, forest tent caterpillar, and fur-bearing mammals present.

Earth Science RepresentationModerately broken ground moraine underlain with granitic and volcanic rock. Possible link with the greenstone belt.
Cultural Value RepresentationThere have been no documented cultural values for this site.
Recreational OpportunitiesAccording to the Recreation Resource Inventory opportunities exist for trapping.

Table 1.3: Survey Information – Overview of inventories completed, their level of detail and inventories that are needed.

Survey LevelLife ScienceEarth ScienceCulturalRecreational
Reconnaissancechecklist, 2001 and Life Science Inventory, 2001checklist, 2001 and Earth Science Inventory, 2001not requiredchecklist, 2001 and Recreation Resource and Inventory, 2002
Detailednot requirednot requirednot requirednot required

1.0 Values to be protected

This section provides a description of the key natural heritage values on the site, their condition relative to past resource and management activities, and their sensitivity to future land use and management activities.

Table 2.1: Values identified on Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve.

Life Scienceold growth white pine and future old growth red and white pine.
Sandcherry; rare in Site District 4S-5
Earth Sciencenone of the earth science values were deemed significant
Culturalnone determined
Aboriginalnone determined
TourismN/A
Recreational FishingN/A
Recreational HuntingWMU #8
TrappingDR04N00101
Bear Management AreaDR-08-010
Bait Harvesting494932
Commercial FishingN/A

2.2 Values to be protected

The intent of this SCI is to protect the following values by establishing management guidelines for existing and potential uses in this area given the level of past disturbance and the nature of the existing features.

2.2.1 Forest values

Provincially significant old growth red and white pine can be found throughout this site. As well, Sandcherry was observed on an open rocky area. This species is likely to be rare in Site District 4S-5.

Figure 2: Aerial view of old growth red and white pine mixed forest.

This is an aerial view of old growth red and white pine mixed forest.

Enlarge figure 2

None of the significant forest values found require additional protection other than that already provided by this Statement of Conservation Interest (See Section 3.0 Management Guidelines) and the Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve Policy Report (See Appendix G).

2.2.2 Biological values

No species of herbaceous plant or animal found on the reserve were deemed significant.

2.2.3 Landform values

This reserve contains no significant landform types.

2.2.4 Recreational values

The Recreation Resource Inventory found the forest and wetland vegetation, exposed bedrock, a small lake, terrestrial/aquatic wildlife and volcanic landforms all to be of recreational value. Due to limited access, however, it suggests trapping to be the only recreational activity. It was indicated that none of the recreation features would be sensitive to any recreational use.

2.2.5 Tourism values

While there are no tourism values located on the reserve itself, a commercial boat cache exists on Bait Lake approximately 800 m from the reserve.

Figure 3: Rocky outcrop found within the reserve.

This is figure 3 depicting the rocky outcrop found within the reserve.

Enlarge figure 3

3.0 Management guidelines

3.1 Land tenure

The Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve consists entirely of Crown land within the unorganized region of the Wabigoon Forest. This reserve is also completely surrounded by Crown land.

The Conservation Reserve will remain Crown land and no dispositions (including Land Use Permits or Licenses of Occupation) will be issued for the site.

The disposition of adjacent Crown Land will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

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.

3.2 Existing and proposed development

There are no roads leading to or within this reserve. At present, there are no existing trails either, however the Recreation Resource Inventory implies the potential for snowmobiling indicating possible winter trails. Some large-diameter stumps were seen, indicating previous harvesting of red and/or white pine probably during the early 1900s. There has been minimal logging in forests adjacent to the reserve.

Facility infrastructure and development for recreational and/or educational purposes may be considered in the future if there is a demonstrated demand for such facilities. All provincial policies that guide development on Crown Lands are applicable in Conservation Reserves. A more detailed management plan would be required prior to any development occurring. The management plan would be required to ensure that there would be no negative impacts to any habitat or ecosystem pertinent to the values protected by the reserve. In particular, the old growth white pine found within this reserve.

3.3 Recreational activities

Most recreational activities that have traditionally been enjoyed in this area can continue provided they pose no threat to the natural ecosystems and features protected by the Conservation Reserve. Those uses that are regulated include hunting, fishing and trapping. Most other permitted activities are non-regulated (i.e. canoeing, exploring, hiking). See Section 2.2.4 for the recreational uses for this Conservation Reserve as determined by the Recreation Resource Inventory.

Mechanical travel is permitted only on the existing roads and trails. Off trail mechanized travel is permitted for retrieval of game only.

3.4 Commercial activities

No new activities, such as commercial logging, hydroelectric power development, new transmission lines (e.g. power or communications), pipelines, highways or roads, and the extraction of aggregate or peat, will be permitted.

An examination of the possible impact of activities on adjacent lands should be evaluated in the Forest Management Plan. Especially due to the small size of the reserve, which increases its susceptibility to edge effects and results in lack of core area necessary for area-sensitive species.

3.5 Aboriginal interests

Aboriginal consultation is ongoing. At present, no issues have been voiced concerning this reserve. Nothing in this Statement of Conservation Interest affects in any way existing or future Aboriginal or treaty rights.

3.6 Natural Resources Stewardship

Natural Resource Stewardship involves the consideration of the following specific natural resource management categories.

3.6.1 Vegetation management

Management within the conservation reserve will allow for the continuation of natural ecosystem processes and functions with minimal human interference.

The forest in the entire area is to be protected from any human alteration. Forest fire protection will be carried out on the Conservation Reserve as on surrounding public lands, with a "light on the land" approach (i.e. no bulldozers, no camp construction, minimal cutting). However, prescribed burns, especially in the understory, to reestablish red and white pine were recommended for future management of the site (Life Science Inventory, 2001).

Forest insect and disease management will continue as on surrounding Crown lands.

3.6.2 Fish and Wildlife Management

Existing Wildlife Management Unit and sport fishing regulations and management activities will apply.

3.6.3 Landforms

None of the landforms mentioned will be altered by landform modification activities such as filling and extraction (see Table 1.2 under Earth Science Representation). The extraction of aggregates and similar materials are not permitted.

Careful mineral exploration may occur in specific new conservation reserves proposed through Ontario’s Living Legacy, in areas that have provincially significant mineral potential. If a portion of the new Conservation Reserve is to be developed for a mine, it would be removed from the reserve, and appropriate replacement lands would be placed in regulations.

3.7 Cultural Resources Stewardship

To fully manage and protect sites, field surveys are required. To date, there have been no surveys done to assess cultural or heritage values. However, common knowledge of the area suggests there to be no such values on this site, thus Cultural Inventories were deemed unnecessary.

3.8 Client services

Given the focus on low key management, client information will be given on an inquiry basis only and will deal with the basic level of information with respect to access, natural heritage appreciation, recommended activities and boundaries.

3.9 Research

Non-destructive research by qualified individuals will be encouraged to provide a better understanding of the natural values protected by the Conservation Reserve and to advance protection, planning and management. In order to assist with enhancing the management guidelines for the reserve, the collection of additional earth and life science information during research is encouraged.

All research programs will require the approval of the Ministry of Natural Resources as will the removal of any natural or cultural specimen. The establishment of permanent plots, observation points or facilities must also be approved and be compatible with the Conservation Reserve protection objective. Any site disturbed by research activities must be rehabilitated as closely as possible to its previous state.

3.10 Marketing

Awareness of the Conservation Reserve is promoted through the Living Legacy web site. Intensive management activity to increase use is not required at this time.

4.0 Implementation

Implementation of this Statement of Conservation Interest will primarily involve monitoring activities to ensure adherence to the management guidelines and responding to inquiries about the site.

Implementation of this statement and management of the reserve are the responsibility of the Wabigoon Forest Area Supervisor. Partnerships may be pursued to address management needs.

5.0 Review and revisions

This Conservation Reserve Statement of Conservation Interest will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

If changes in management direction are needed at any time, the significance of the changes will be evaluated and further consultation a possibility. Any major amendments will require full public consultation and the approval of the District Manager and Regional Director. Affected clients will be immediately informed of proposed changes to this Statement of Conservation Interest.

This Statement of Conservation Interest complies with all requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act and the Environmental Bill of Rights.

5.2 Public consultation

5.2.1 Results of past consultations

Consultation for the Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve was conducted as part of the consultation on the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy, July 1999. Subsequent consultation took place in June of 2001 to identify any stakeholder issues with the proposed Conservation Reserve.

District Manager letters were sent to the Dryden Forest Management Co., Weyerhaeuser and Ontario’s Forest Industries Association. An additional 87 stakeholder letters were sent out to tourist operators, advisory committees, trappers, land owners and members of the public. As well, newspaper ads were placed in the Ignace Driftwood, June 20 and in the Dryden Observer, June 19 of 2001. Two visits were made to the Dryden District Office. Significant issues stressed concerned permitted uses. As a result of the consultation process concerns were addressed and no analysis was needed.

First Nations Consultation letters were sent to ten Native communities including Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, Aboriginal People of Wabigoon and Eagle Lake First Nation. No issues have been voiced to date. Direct consultation with Treaty 3 First Nations is being carried out on a regional basis.

5.2.2 Present and future consultation

More widespread consultation is not deemed necessary at this time.

5.2.3 Author

This Statement of Conservation Interest was prepared by Alicia H.L. Morin, OLL Intern, Information Management, Dryden District. Assistance was provided by Martin Pell, of the Dryden District and Jim Cameron, of the Thunder Bay Regional office.

6.0 References

Northern Bioscience. Earth Science Inventory for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve. 2001.

Northern Bioscience. Life Science Inventory for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve. 2001.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve (C2346) Fact Sheet. June 2001.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve (C2346) Recreation Resource Inventory Report. 2002.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy. July, 1999. p. 24. Queen’s Printer for Ontario.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Lands & Natural Heritage, Lands & Waters. Conservation Reserve Policy and Procedure PL 3.03.05. February, 1997. 22 pp.

Appendix A: Map of Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

This is a site reference map of Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

Enlarge Appendix A map

Appendix B: Aerial photograph of Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

This is an aerial photograph of Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

Enlarge Appendix B map

Appendix C: Forest resource inventory (FRI) map for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

This is the forest resource inventory map for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

Enlarge Appendix C forest resource inventory map

Appendix D: Earth science reconnaissance inventory

Detailed information for site C2341 Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

Protection history

This reserve was identified under the provincial Lands for Life - Ontario’s Living Legacy program. It was principally identified for its life science representation with no previous

Setting

Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve incorporates lands south of Kapesakosi Lake and north of Bait Lake, adjacent to Kapesakosi Creek, which delineates the eastern boundary of the reserve. It comprises 178 hectares of Crown land located in Dryden MNR District. Elevations range from 380 to 450 m a.s.l. It appears to have undergone no previous disturbance.

Earth science features

Bedrock geology

Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve lies wholly within the Archean age Wabigoon subprovince, at the southern edge of the Atikwa batholith. Rock outcrop density is very high, on the order of 90%, beneath a pervasive tree canopy. No systematic geological surveys have covered the Reserve. Existing compilation mapping (Blackburn et al 1981) suggest the area of the Reserve to be entirely underlain by granitic rocks. The present site visit (comprising 3 stations at two helicopter landings in the western half of the Reserve, and aerial reconnaissance) suggests that mafic metavolcanic rocks underlie half of the Reserve. Mafic metavolcanic rocks were observed at all 3 stations. These included rocks that displayed pillow structure, definitive of mafic submarine volcanism, at station 3 (photo 1). Interlayering of granitic rock with amphibolitic mafic rocks was observed at station 1 (photo2). During the aerial reconnaissance, pink to grey granitic rocks were observed in the eastern half of the Reserve. A prominent ridge to the southwest of the Reserve was observed to be entirely comprised of dark green mafic rocks. This observation suggests a linkage with a greenstone belt sliver passing through Bait Lake, previously interpreted between the Atikwa batholith to the north and the Lawrence Lake batholith to the south (Blackburn et al 1981).

Surficial geology

Bedrock dominates in most of the Reserve (Roed 1980; Minning and Sharpe 1991) but a thin veneer of till ground moraine covers bedrock in places, particularly in the extreme west portion. Minning and Sharpe (1991) have interpreted gravel outwash deposits in the south comer, and minor organic deposits in places, particularly along the creek that defines the eastern edge of the Reserve.

Significance

None of the earth science features identified in the reserve are of significance.

Sensitivity

None of the earth science features identified is sensitive to either natural or cultural impacts.

Recommendations

No recommendations are made.

References

Blackburn, C.E, Beard, R.C. and Rivett, S. 1981. Kenora-Fort Frances, Districts of Kenora and Rainy River, Geological Compilation Series; Ontario Geological Survey, Map 2443, scale 1:253 440.

Minning, G.V. and Sharpe, D.R. 1991. Surficial geology, Rowan Lake, Ontario; Geological Survey of Canada, Map 1773A scale 1:100 000.

Roed, M.A. 1980. Northern Ontario Engineering Geology Terrain Study, Data Base Map, Rowan Lake; Ontario Geological Survey, Map 5060, scale 1:100 000.

Photographs

  1. Well-defined pillow structure in mafic metavolcanic rocks. Darker pillow rims contain yellow-weathering epidote. (Stn. 3; UTM 0476776E 5470298N)
  2. Inter layering of pink granitic rock and dark green amphibolite. (Stn. 1; UTM 0477403E 5470861N)

Glossary of geological terms for site C2341 Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

Archean: The earliest eon of Precambrian time, older than 2500 million years.

Amphibolite: Volcanic rock that has been metamorphosed to high grade, in which the mineral homeblende (an amphibole) is developed.

Batholith garnet: A very large body of igneous intrusive rock.

Garnet: A complex silicate mineral of metamorphic origin that is used to indicate grade of metamorphism (temperature and pressure conditions).

Granitic: General term applied to intrusive igneous rocks with visibly distinct crystallinity, that are quartz-bearing: includes granite, granodiorite, tonalite and quartz diorite.

Greenstone belt: General term for all the rocks within a predominantly volcanic sequence of rocks, but including sedimentary and igneous intrusive rocks, that commonly has a linear form.

Mafic: Refers to igneous rocks with a high content of magnesium-rich minerals, commonly imparting a dark colour to the rock.

Meta (prefix): Implies metamorphism of the rock type to which it is applied, e.g. metasedimentary.

Moraine: Sediment deposited by direct glacial action.

Outwash: Stratified sediment deposited by meltwater streams beyond glacier ice.

Pillows: Multiple, stacked structures that resemble pillows in shape and size, found in mafic volcanic flows, that indicate extrusion of lava beneath water.

Subprovince: Structural subdivision of a geologic province, commonly but not uniquely fault-bounded, based on distinctive internal rock types, structures, ages and metamorphic conditions.

Till: Non sorted, non stratified sediment carried or deposited by a glacier.

Appendix E: Life science reconnaissance inventory C2341 Kapesakosi Lake C.R.

Natural Heritage Area - Life Science Checksheet

This table provides a natural heritage area checksheet for Kapesakosi Lake C.R.
NameC2341 Kapesakosi Lake
Map nameLawrence Lake
Map number52/F6
UTM Ref.Zone 15
477000 E
5470000 N
DistrictKenora
Latitude / longitude49°23'20° N / 93° 19° W
NAD83
Min. Alt.380 m
Max. Alt.450 m
LocalityApproximately 85 km N of Fort Frances
Townshipunorganized
Area178 ha.
OwnershipCrown
MNR regionNorthwest region
Ecoregion and ecodistrict4S-5
Landform unitSee Table 3
MNR DistrictDryden
Aerial photographsYear-Roll-Flight Line-Numbers 97-4913-B 47-216

This area map depicts the northwest region of the Kenora district.

Enlarge area map

Physical and biological features

Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve is located approximately 1 km south of Kapesakosi Lake in Site District 4S-5. Two small, unnamed lakes bound the conservation reserve on the east and west. Another small lake (8.5 ha) falls entirely within the reserve boundary (photo 1) and drains to the south into Bait Lake via a small stream. Moderately broken ground moraine is the predominant landform in the reserve. The till is of variable depth but is generally shallow, and scattered bedrock outcrops (< 1 ha) occur throughout much of the reserve. There are also small pockets of organic terrain along lakeshores and riparian areas.

Mixedwoods and conifer forest cover the majority of the reserve. Red and white pine mixedwood (ES24) are found throughout much of the reserve on clay loam soils (photo 2). Balsam fir, white spruce, black spruce, white birch, and trembling aspen are subdominant in the canopy. One large (27 ha) white pine stand (Stand #486, BM 494932)) in the central portion of the reserve is old growth (160 year age-class) (Figure 1). Most of the remaining red and white pine mixedwood is typed as approximately 80 years of age. Beaked hazel, bush honeysuckle, blueberries, and bunchberry typically dominate the understory.

A dense stand of red and white pines (ES1S, V26, V27) is located in the northern portion of the reserve on the southwest-facing slope along the lakeshore (photo 3). Soils are sandy clay loam, and are slightly coarser and better drained than in the much of the pine mixedwood. Two 43-47 cm DBH red pine aged during field reconnaissance were 78-88 years, and a 40-cm DBH white pine was 78 years old. Conifer litter and Schreber’s moss blanket the forest floor, with only scattered herbs such as Canada mayflower and prince’s pine.

Birch-dominated mixedwoods predominate on thin silty clay loam tills over bedrock the western portion of the reserve. Black spruce, balsam fir, trembling aspen, and white pine are minor components of the canopy and occasional tree-sized (>20 cm DBH, >10 m tall) red maple are also present. A dense shrub understory of balsam fir, beaked hazel, and blueberries is present, particularly in gaps caused by blowdown. Although the stand is listed as 50 years old in the FRI, much of this stand is mature to overmature with large diameter (e.g. 30 cm DBH) birch present. Black spruce dominated mixedwoods (ES27) are also found in the eastern portion of the reserve near the stream and lakeshore.

Small pockets of poor fen (ES 41, W21) adjacent to riparian areas are dominated by leatherleaf, bog laurel, few-seeded sedge, and Sphagnum. Stunted tamarack, black spruce, and white pine are rooted in drier hummocks.

Small rock outcrops (too small to individually map) typically had sand cherry, rock spike-moss, pale corydalis, bearberry, and other xeric species.

Representation

Rainmaker Lake was one of six old growth stands selected to represent old-growth pine in 4S-5 based on the Northwest Region Old Growth Study (Simpson 1994). Other, younger-aged red and white pine mixedwood stands within conservation reserve will provide future old growth as the existing old growth stand senesces. These conifer-dominated mixedwoods on weakly broken ground moraine and the deciduous-dominated mixedwoods and conifer forests found in the reserve are representative for the Site District (Table 3).

Condition

A few large-diameter stumps were observed, indicating there was some previous harvesting of red and/ or white pine, likely during the early 1900s (photo 4). There is no road access to the conservation reserve, suggesting past logging was done during the winter or using waterways.

There is one trapline in the conservation reserve. The nearest commercial activity is a commercial boat cache on Bait Lake, 800 m to the south of the reserve.

Diversity

Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve has relatively low diversity due to its small size and only one main landform type. However, the loamy soil is relatively rich and there is wide range of microhabitats, from wetland to xeric outcrop. Mixedwoods are typically the most diverse forests in northwestern Ontario, and at least nine tree species are present in the reserve. There is a fairly rich shrub and herb understory in the mixedwoods of the reserve.

Ecological considerations

No fires since the 1920s have been mapped in Kapesakosi Lake, but occasional red and white pine trees showed evidence of fire-scarring due to lightning strike. A few small « 2 m tall) white pine, (but no red pine regeneration), were observed in the mixedwood. Red pine, in particular, requires exposed mineral soil and full sunlight for successful germination and growth. White pine is more tolerant of shading, and often exists in a mixedwood condition on loamy soils. Over the long term however, the red and white pine component in the reserve may decrease in the absence of fire. Moderate spruce budworm mortality of the balsam fir and white spruce component in the conservation reserve occurred during the late 1980s. Standing dead balsam fir and blowdown were noted during field reconnaissance. Blowdown of large diameter pine and birch was observed during field reconnaissance. Disease and/or senescence were likely a contributing factor, since no large­ scale windthrow events have been recorded for the reserve. Abundant balsam fir and beaked hazel are found in gaps created by blowdown, as is some white pine regeneration.

Extensive forest tent caterpillar defoliation of trembling aspen, blueberries, and even white birch was observed in the reserve.

Moose pellets and browsed shrubs (beaked hazel, dogwood, trembling aspen) were evident, particularly in the birch mixedwood. The small size of the conservation reserve makes it sensitive to edge effects and there is a lack of core area for area-sensitive species. Fortunately, there has been little logging in forests adjacent to the reserve.

Special features

The 26 ha white pine stand (FRI Stand #422, BM494932) in the central portion of the reserve was identified as old growth forest in Simpson (1996). FRI typing indicate the stand is at least 160 years old.. Adjacent, younger, red and white pine stands in the reserve provide a potential futun:³ source of old growth red and white pine.

Sandcherry was found on a rocky open area (ES12) in the conservation reserve. This species is limited to xeric habitats such as beaches, dunes, and rock outcrops, and is likely rare in Site District 4S-S.

Recommendations

Prescribed fire, especially understory bums, should be considered as a future management option to maintain and enhance the red and white pine component within the reserve. Since the reserve is in the intensive fire management zone, prescribed fire could be a mechanism for allowing this natural process to occur without threatening other significant values.

Significance level and summary of major representative values

The conservation reserve includes provincially significant old growth white pine forests. Although within the "core" portion of white pine range, this stand is significant and representative for its old growth characteristics.

Major information sources

Harris, A.G., S.C. McMurray, P.W.C. Uhlig, J.K. Jeglum, R.F. Foster and G.D. Racey. 1996. Field guide to the wetland ecosystem classification for northwestern Ontario. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour. , Northwest Sci.&Technol. Thunder Bay, Ont. Field Guide FG-01. 74 pp. + Append.

Noble, T. 1995. Site Region 3S Gap Analysis. Unpublished report for Ontario Parks, Ont. Min. Natur. Resour. Thunder Bay, Ont. 28 p. + appendices.

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

Racey, G.D., A.G. Harris, J.K. Jeglum, R.F. Foster and G.M. Wickware. 1996. Terrestrial and wetland ecosites of northwestern Ontario. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour. , Northwest Sci. & Technol. Thunder Bay, Ont. Field Guide FG-02. 88 pp. + Append.

Sims, R.A., W.D. Towill, K.A. Baldwin, P. Uhlig and G.M. Wickware. 1997. Field guide to the forested ecosystem classification for northwestern Ontario. Ont. Min. Natur. Resour. , Northwest Sci. & Technol. Thunder Bay, Ont. Field Guide FG-03. 176 p.

Simpson, E. 1996. Old growth red and white pine forests: Northwest Region report on protection. NWST Tech. Rep. TR-98

Date Compiled: 18/07/02

Compilers: Robert Foster, Allan Hams. Northern Bioscience

Figure 1. Site map with significant features

This is figure 1 site map depicting significant features of Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve

Enlarge figure 1 site map

Photo 1. Shoreline of small unnamed lake within reserve.

This photo displays in a forest setting the shoreline of a small unnamed lake within reserve.

Enlarge photo 1

Photo 2. Red and white pine mixedwood includes significant old growth stand.

This photo displays in a forest setting the red and white pine mixedwood and includes significant old growth stand.

Photo 3. Red and white pine stand (ES 15) on sandy clay loam soils in northern part of reserve.

This photo displays in a forest setting red and white pine stand

Photo 4. Stumps with lightning scars provide evidence of previous harvesting and wildfire.

This photo displays in a forest setting stumps with lightning scars provide evidence of previous harvesting and wildfire.

Table 1. Land cover classes of Kapesakosi Lake (derived from Landsat data)

Land cover classes of Kapesakosi Lake (derived from Landsat data).
Landcover ClassArea (ha)% of site
Water137
Treed Fen11
Treed Bog<1<1
Dense Deciduous Forest4726
Dense Coniferous Forest21
Mixed Forest - mainly Deciduous2514
Mixed Forest - mainly Coniferous7642
Sparse Coniferous Forest158
Total179100

Table 2. Rapid assessment plot summary from Kapesakosi Lake

Rapid assessment plot summary from Kapesakosi Lake.
Plot No.V/W TypeES TypeDate
242V27ES1507/12/2001
243V26ES2407/12/2001
244V4ES2907/12/2001
245W21ES4107/12/2001

Table 3. Landform – vegetation (LV) type representation for Kapesakosi Lake (ha)

Landform – vegetation (LV) type representation for Kapesakosi Lake (ha)
Site DistrictLandformSurface expressionConiferConifer mixedDeciduousDeciduous mixedOpen wetlandSparse forestGrand total
4S-5Ground MoraineModerately broken3footnote R73 4925 217169
Grand total  3734925217169

C = critical to meet representation targets at the Site District level

R = contributes to representation of the LV type at the Site District level

Table 4. Site type matrix for Kapesakosi Lake

Site type matrix for Kapesakosi Lake
TemperatureTypeAridVery dryDryDry MesicMesicWet MesicWetVery wetSaturatedOpen water
ColderRock          
ColderSand          
ColderLoam    ES29     
ColderClay    ES29     
ColderOrganic        41 
NormalRock          
NormalSand          
NormalLoam   ES27ES29     
NormalClay   ES27ES29     
NormalOrganic          
WarmerRockES7ES7        
WarmerSand ES15ES15ES24      
WarmerLoam    ES24     
WarmerClay          
WarmerOrganic          

Kapesakosi Lake (C2341) plant species lists

Based on fieldwork conducted on July 12, 2001 and data provided by OMNR. Taxonomic order and species names generally follow Morton and Venn (1990). Introduced species are marked "I". Provincially rare species (Oldham 1999) are marked "P". Regionally rare species (TBFN 1998) are marked "R" . Voucher specimens were collected for species marked "*".

This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family EquisetaceaeHorsetail Family
Equisetum sylvaticum L.Woodland Horsetail
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family DennstaetiaceaeBracken Family
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) KuhnBracken
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family DryopteridaceaeTrue Fern Family
Dryopteris carlhusiana (Villars) H.P.FuchsSpinuiose Wood Fern
Gymnocarpium dryopteris (L.) NewmanOak Fern
Woodsia ilvensis (L.) R.Br.Rusty Woodsia
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family OsmundaceaeFlowering Fern Family
Osmunda claytoniana L.Interrupted Fern
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family PolypodiaceaePolypody Family
Polypodium virginianum L.Rock Polypody
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family LycopodiaceaeClubmoss Family
Lycopodium annotinum L.Bristly Clubmoss
Lycopodium obscurum L.Flat-branched Tree Clubmoss
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family SelaginellaceaeSpikemoss Family
Selaginella rupestris (L.) SpringRock Spikemoss
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family CupressaceaeJuniper Family
Thuja occidentalis L.Eastern White Cedar
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family PinaceaePine Family
Larix laricina (duroi) k. kochTamarack
Picea mariana (Miller) BSPBlack Spruce
Pinus resinosa Sol. ex AitonRed Pine
Pinus strobus L.White Pine
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family CyperaceaeSedge Family
Carex aquatilis Wahlenb.Water Sedge
Carex bebbii (L. Bailey) Olney ex Fern.Bebb’s Sedge
Carex brunnescens (Pers.) Poiret ex Lam.Brownish Sedge
Carex lacustris Wild.Lake Sedge
Carex lasiocarpa Ehrh.Wire Sedge
Carex limosa L.Mud Sedge
Carex oligosperma MichauxFew-seeded Sedge
footnote *Eriophorum vaginatum (Fern.) HultenDense Cottongrass
Family IridaceaeIris Family
Iris versicolor L.Wild Iris
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family LiliaceaeLily Family
Clintonia borealis (Aiton) Rat.Blue Bead Lily
Maianthemum canadense Desf.Wild Lily-of-the-valley
Maianthemum trifolium (L.) SlobodaThree-leaved Solomon’s Seal
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family OrchidaceaeOrchid Family
Platanthera hookeri (Torrey ex A. Gray) LindleyHooker’s Orchis
Platanthera orbiculata (Pursh) LindleyLarge Round-leaved Orchis
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family PoaceaeGrass Family
Agrostis scabra Willd.Ticklegrass
Oryzopsis asperifolia MichauxRough-leaved Mountain Rice
Poa palustris L.Fowl Blue Grass
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family ScheuchzeriaceaePod-grass Family
Scheuchzeria palustris L.Pod-grass
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family TyphaceaeCattail Family
Typha latifolia L.Common Cattail
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family AceraceaeMaple Family
Acer rubrum L.Red Maple
Acer spicatum Lam.Mountain Maple
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family AraliaceaeGinseng Family
Aralia nudicaulis L.Wild Sarsaparilla
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family AsteraceaeSunflower Family
Family Aster macrophyllus L.Large-leaved Aster
Solidago uliginosa Nutt.Marsh Goldenrod
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family BalsaminaceaeTouch-me-not Family
Impatiens capensis Meerb.Jewel Weed
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family BetulaceaeBirch Family
Family Alnus incana (L.) MoenchSpeckled
Alder Alnus viridis (Chaix) DC.Green Alder
Betula papyrifera MarshallWhite Birch
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family CaprifoliaceaeHoneysuckle Family
Family Diervilla lonicera MillerBush Honeysuckle
Lonicera canadensis BartramCanada Fly Honeysuckle
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family CornaceaeDogwood Family
Cornus canadensis L.Bunchberry
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family DroseraceaeSundew Family
Drosera rotundifolia L.Round-leaved Sundew
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family EricaceaeHeath Family
Chamaedaphne calyculata (L.) MoenchLeatherleaf
Gaultheria hispidula (L.) Muhlenb. ex BigelowCreeping Snowberry
Kalmia polifolia Wangenh.Bog Laurel
Ledum groenlandicum OederLabrador Tea
Vaccinium angustifolium AitonLow Blueberry
Vaccinium myrtilloides MichauxVelvet-leaved Blueberry
Vaccinium oxycoccos L.Small Cranberry
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family FumariaceaeFumitory Family
Corydalis sempervirens (L.) Pers.Pale Corydalis
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family GuttiferaeSt. John’s-wort Family
Triadenum fraseri (Spach) GleasonMarsh St. Johnswort
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family MenyanthaceaeBogbean Family
Menyanthes trifoliata L.Buckbean, Bogbean
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family MyricaceaeBayberry Family
Myrica gale L.Sweet Gale
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family NymphaeaceaeWater-lily Family
Nuphar variegata Durand in ClintonYellow Pond Lily
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family OleaceaeOlive Family
Fraxinus nigra MarshallBlack Ash
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family PolygonaceaeBuckwheat Family
Polygonum cilinode MichauxFringed Bindweed
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family PrimulaceaePrimrose Family
Trientalis borealis Rat.Starflower
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family PyrolaceaeWintergreen Family
Chimaphila umbellata (L.) BartonPipsissewa
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family RanunculaceaeButtercup Family
Coptis trifolia (L.) Salisb.Three-leaved Gold Thread
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family RosaceaeRose Family
Amelanchier bartramiana (Tausch) M.RoemerOblong-fruited Juneberry
Potentilla arguta PurshTall Cinquefoil
Prunus pensylvanica L.f.Pincherry
Prunus pumila L.Sandcherry
Rosa acicularis LindleyPrickly Wild Rose
Rubus idaeus L.Common Raspberry
Rubus pubescens Raf.Dwarf Raspberry
Sorbus decora (Sarg.) C.SchneiderShowy Mountain Ash
This table lists the taxonomic order and species name
Family SarraceniaceaePitcher plant Family
Sarracenia purpurea L.pitcher plant

Kapesakosi Lake (2341) animal species list

Based on fieldwork conducted on July 12, 2001 and data provided by OMNR. Taxonomic order and nomenclature follow AOU (1998) for birds and Banfield (1974) for mammals. Nesting evidence codes follow the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas:

Possible nesting:

H - Species observed in breeding season in suitable habitat.

S - Singing male present or breeding calls heard in breeding season in suitable habitat.

Voucher specimens were collected for all odonate species.

Birds

This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
LoonsFamily Gaviidae
Common Loon (H)Gavia immer
This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
Wood-warblersFamily Parulidae
Tennessee Warbler (S)Vermivora peregrina
Nashviile Warbler (S)Vermivora ruficapilla

Amphibians

This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
HylidaeFamily Hylidae
Tetraploid Gray TreefrogHyla versicolor

Mammals

This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
SquirrelsFamily Sciuridae
Red SquirrelAlces alces
This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
DeerFamily Cervidae
MooseAlces alces

Damselflies and Dragonflies

This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
BluetsFamily Coenagrionidae
Boreal BluetEnallagma boreale
This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
EmeraldsFamily Corduliidae
American EmeraldCordulia shurtleffi
This table lists the taxonomic order and nomenclature
SkimmersFamily Libellulidae
Crimson-ringed WhitefaceLeucoffhinia glacialis
Hudsonian WhitefaceLeucorrhinia hudsonica

Appendix F: Recreation Inventory Checklist for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve - C2346

This table provides a recreation feature checksheet for Kapesakosi Lake C.R.
NameKapesakosi Lake Conservation Researve - C2341
Map nameLawrence Lake
NTS number52/F6
UTM reference477016 5470119
OBM number20 15 4700 54700
Latitude / longitude49°23 / 93°19
Area (ha)176.00 (ha)
OwnershipCrown
MNR regionNorthwest
MNR districtDryden
Park ZoneNorthwest
CountyN/A
TownshipN/A
Recreation features
  1. E03 Coniferous
  2. E08 Wetland begetation
  3. J06 Bedrock exposed
  4. M02 Lake, small
  5. A00 Aquatic flora/fauna
  6. W03 Land mammals, large
  7. W02 Land Mammals, small
  8. J11 Volcanic
Recreation activities1. H06 Trapping
This table provides a recreation factor checksheet for Kapesakosi Lake C.R.
Recreation factorsFeaturesRating: (Very High, High, Moderate, Low, N/A)
Most scarce feature:N/A 
Feature scarcity: N/A
Most unique feature:N/A 
Activity attraction capability: Low
Scenic attractiveness: High
Geographic significance Low
Feature significance Low
Most sensitive feature to recreation use:N/A 
Feature sensitivity to recreation use: N/A
Most sensitive feature to resource development:1 
Feature sensitivity to resource development Moderate
Cultural/historic and archaelogical features: N/A

Comments: Road to Kapesakosi Lake is drivable, however access into the Conservation Reserve is limited to helicopter, or snowmobile in the winter season.

Date compiled: June 11, 2001

Compiler: Irene Schneider

Source: Recreation Resource Inventory Standards and Proceedures DRAFT REPORT. Gov. of British Columbia. Ministry of Forest Range, Recreation and Forests Practices Branch, March 1995.

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

Appendix G: Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve Policy Report

Policy Report (revised October 16, 2001)

Identification:

ID: C2346
Area Name: Kapesakosi Lake
Area (ha): 21
Land Use: Conservation Reserve
Category:

Description:

This site contains a representative old growth red and white pine forest.

Land use intent

The intent is to regulate this area as a Conservation Reserve.

Management of this area is also governed by the general policies contained in the Land Use Strategy (1999).

Management  direction:

Those uses and management activities not listed in the following table are governed by existing Conservation Reserve policy. Over time the management direction will be elaborated in a Statement of Conservation Interest or Resource Management Plan. 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. Compatibility is normally determined through a planning process.

Commercial activities

This table provides permitted commercial activities for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve
ActivityPermittedGuidelines
Aggregate extractionNo 
Bait fishing - existing:YesExisting use permitted to continue, unless there are significant demonstrated conflicts.
Bait fishing - new:MaybeNew operations can be considered, subject to the "test of compatibility".
Commercial fishing - existing:YesExisting use permitted to continue, unless there are significant demonstrated conflicts.
Commercial fishing - new:MaybeNew operations can be considered, subject to the "test of compatibility".
Commercial fur harvesting - existing:YesExisting use permitted to continue, unless there are significant demonstrated conflicts. Existing trap cabins can continue; new cabins are not permitted.
Commercial fur harvesting - new:MaybeNew operations can be considered, subject to the "test of compatibility".
Commercial hydro developmentNo 
Commercial timber harvestNo 
Commercial tourism - existing:YesExisting authorized facilities can continue, unless there are significant demonstrated conflicts.
Commercial tourism - new:MaybeNew tourism facilities can be considered during the planning for an individual reserve.
Bear hunting by non­ residents (guided) - existing:YesExisting authorized operations permitted to continue.
Bear hunting by non­ residents (guided) - new:MaybeNew operations not permitted.
Outfitting services - existing:YesExisting authorized operations permitted to continue.
Outfitting services - new:MaybeNew operations can be considered during the planning for an individual reserve.
Outpost camps - existing:YesExisting authorized facilities permitted to continue.
Outpost camps - new:MaybeNew facilities can be considered during the planning for an individual reserve.
Resorts/lodges - existing:YesExisting authorized facilities permitted to continue.
Resorts/lodges - new:MaybeNew facilities can be considered during the planning for an individual reserve.
Energy transmission and communications corridors - existing:YesThese facilities should avoid conservation reserve lands wherever possible.
Energy transmission and communications corridors - new:No 
Food harvesting (commercial) - existing:Maybe 
Food harvesting (commercial) - new:Maybe 
Mineral exploration and developmentMaybeMineral exploration may occur under controlled conditions in portions of new conservation reserves that are identified through further analysis and consultation as having provincially-significant mineral potential. If a site is to be developed for a mine, it would be deregulated as part of the reserve, and a replacement area added to the reserve.
Peat extractionNo 
Wild rice harvesting - existing:Yes 
Wild rice harvesting - new:Maybe 

Land and resource management activities

This table provides permitted land and resource management activities for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve
ActivityPermittedGuidelines
Crown land disposition Private use:Maybe 
Crown land disposition Commercial useMaybeSale of lands is not permitted, except for minor dispositions in support of existing uses (e.g. reconstruction of a septic system). Renewals of existing leases and land use permits are permitted. Requests for transfer of tenure will be considered in the context of the Statement of Conservation Interest or Resource Management Plan. New leases or land use permits permitted for approved activities. Tourism facilities can apply to upgrade tenure from LUP to lease.
Fire suppressionYesFire suppression policies are similar to adjacent Crown lands, unless alternative fire policies have been developed through a planning process.
Fish habitat managementMaybe 
Insect/disease suppressionMaybe 
Inventory/monitoringYes 
Personal use permits for wood harvestingMaybe 
Prescribed burningMaybe 
Roads (resource access) - existing:YesExisting roads can continue to be used. Continued use will include maintenance and may include future upgrading.
Roads (resource access) - new:MaybeNew roads for resource extraction will not be permitted, with the exception of necessary access to existing forest reserves for mineral exploration and development, or where part of a conservation reserve has been formally identified as having provincially significant mineral potential that is open for controlled exploration.
Vegetation managementMaybeConservation Reserves policy indicates that Featured Species Management and Natural Systems Management may be permitted. Vegetation management can be considered in a planning process.
Wildlife population managementMaybe 

Science, education and heritage appreciation

This table provides permitted science, education and heritage appreciation activities for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve
ActivityPermittedGuidelines
CollectingNo 
Historical appreciationYes 
Nature appreciationYes 
Photography and paintingYes 
ResearchYes 
Wildlife viewingYes 

Recreation activities and facilities

This table provides permitted recreation activities and facilities for Kapesakosi Lake Conservation Reserve
ActivityPermittedGuidelines
All-terrain vehicle use On trailsYesExisting use permitted to continue where it does not adversely affect the values being protected.
All-terrain vehicle use Off trailsNoATV use off trails is not permitted except for direct retrieval of game.
CampgroundsMaybe 
Food gatheringYes 
Horseback riding(trail)YesExisting use on trails permitted.
HuntingYes 
Mountain bike useYesExisting use on trails permitted.
Motor boat use (commercial)Yes 
Motor boat use (private)Yes 
Non-motorized recreation travelYes 
Private recreation camps (hunt camps) - existingYesExisting camps permitted to continue, and may be eligible for enhanced tenure, but not purchase of land.
Private recreation camps (hunt camps) - newNo 
Rock climbingMaybe 
Snowmobiling (On Trails)YesExisting use permitted to continue where it does not adversely affect the values being protected.
Snowmobiling (Off Trails)MaybeSnowmobile use off trails is not permitted, except that snowmobiles may be used for direct retrieval of game.
Sport fishing:Yes 
Trail developmentMaybeDevelopment of trails for a variety of activities (e.g. hiking, cross-country skiing, cycling, horseback riding, snowmobiling) can be considered as part of planning for an Individual reserve.

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

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

Management of this conservation reserve is carried out within the context of Conservation Reserve policy as amended by the policies for new conservation reserves outlined in the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy.

Source of direction:

Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy

Explanation of edits:

N/A