Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve Management Statement

Statement of Conservation Interest (C70)
February 2003

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
North Bay District

Executive Summary:

Approved Statement of Conservation Interest for Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve (C70).

The Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve has been selected as a site representing upland forests containing varying mixes of poplar, tolerant hardwood and coniferous species, while geological earth science features and post-glacial deposits characterize the landscape. Further studies are required to identify other possible ecological associations and their significance. This 664-hectare parcel of Crown land is located approximately 10km east of the town of Trout Creek, and straddles the organized Township of Himsworth South, North Bay District and the unorganized township of Laurier in Parry Sound District. The site encompasses several lake, creek and marsh systems that are contained within the local watershed.

The Sausage Lake Forest Lake Conservation Reserve is one of 378 new protected areas approved through Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999), a strategy aimed in part, at completing Ontario’s system of parks and protected areas. The site was regulated under the Public Lands Act on January 6, 2001.

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

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

The goal of the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve is to protect natural heritage features while permitting compatible land use activities.

The purposes of this SCI are to:

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

During the Lands for Life planning process, the public was widely consulted and provided valuable input into what became Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy. Comments received during that time, and consultation related to the formal Public Lands Act regulation of the boundaries of this conservation reserve, were generally supportive of the protection of this area. Stakeholders who provided comment during the boundary consultation for this site were consulted regarding the draft SCI and their comments were considered in the finalization of this document.

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

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

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

Approval statement

I am pleased to approve this Statement of Conservation Interest for the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve (C70).

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

During the Lands for Life planning process, the public was widely consulted and provided valuable input into what became Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999). Comments received during that time, and consultation related to the formal Public Lands Act regulation of the boundaries of this conservation reserve, were generally supportive of the protection of these areas. Stakeholders who provided comment during the boundary consultation for this site were provided the opportunity to review the draft SCI and their comments were considered in the finalization of this document.

Direction for establishing, planning and managing conservation reserves is defined under the Public Lands Act and current policy. "Ontario’s network of natural heritage areas has been established to protect and conserve areas representative of the diversity of the natural regions of the province, including species, habitats, features and ecological systems which comprise that natural diversity." (Policy 3.03.05, MNR 1997). These habitats are currently not protected elsewhere in the province.

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

The northern portion of Sausage Lake Conservation Reserve will be managed under the direction of the Wasi Area Supervisor, North Bay District, Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) while the southern portion will continue to be managed by the Bracebridge Area Supervisor, Parry Sound District MNR.

Original signed by Dave Payne
District Manager Recommendation
For Approval

Date: Original signed on February 28, 2003

Original signed by Rob Galloway
Regional Director

Date: Original signed on May 30, 2003

1.0 Introduction

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

The Sausage Lake Forest Lake Conservation Reserve has been selected as a conservation reserve as part of this strategy. This conservation reserve is made up of highlands and steep slopes covered with sugar maple, red maple, yellow birch, fir and spruce stands. There are also low lying moraine landforms and an esker landform supporting balsam fir. The conservation reserve is located approximately 10km east of the town of Trout Creek, and straddles the Township of Himsworth South, North Bay District and the township of Laurier in Parry Sound District.

The preparation of a SCI is a means in which to identify the values of this conservation reserve and to set out guidelines for the management of current and future activities while protecting the natural, social and cultural heritage values of the conservation reserve.

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

This SCI governs all lands within the regulated boundary of the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve. MNR recognizes the need to work with other Ministries and/or proponents of adjacent land use activities, to encourage minimizing the potential risk of negative impacts on the conservation reserve. It is recognized that public awareness and public education will play a role in the stewardship of all protected areas and it is essential to pursue and promote sound environmental, economic and social strategies to reinforce the principles of wise stewardship.

2.0 Goal and objectives

2.1 Goal of the Statement of Conservation Interest

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

2.2 Objectives of the Statement of Conservation Interest

2.2.1 Short term

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

2.2.2 Long term

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

3.0 Management planning

3.1 Planning context

3.1.1 Planning area

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

3.1.2 Management planning context

Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy provides the context for planning for protected areas within the system of parks and protected areas. The categorization of land use areas, their associated goals, objectives and permitted uses are reflected in this SCI. Conservation reserves, which are created by regulation under the Public Lands Act, are managed by policies and procedures set out in the Conservation Reserves Policy and Procedure, 1997 (PL 3.03.05).

The Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve was regulated as a conservation reserve on January 6, 2001, by Ontario Regulation (O.Reg. 686/00).

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

Consideration for proposals such as new structural development, significant clearing of vegetation or altering of land within the conservation reserve will adhere to a screening process for cultural heritage resources such as through the Ministry of Culture; Conserving a Future for our Past: Archeology, Land Use Planning & Development in Ontario, Section 3, "Reviewing Development Applications for Archaeological Conservation Purposes," (formerly MCCR, 1997) and MNR's AOC Descriptions and Prescriptions.

3.2 Planning process

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

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

4.0 Background information

4.1 Location and site description

4.1.1 Location

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

4.1.2 Site description

4.1.2.1 Physical description

The Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve is a 664 ha parcel of Crown land, located approximately 10 km east of the town of Trout Creek. This site can be accessed via a tertiary road, which starts in the Township of Himsworth South and traverses the unorganized township of Laurier. The conservation reserve straddles the MNR administrative districts of North Bay and Parry Sound.

The site is located on the boarder between site districts 5E-5 and 5E-8, and is made up of highlands and steep slopes covered with sugar maple, red maple, yellow birch, fir and spruce stands. The site contains a number of sheltered creek valleys that provide conifer cover for moose wintering area. The gravel deposits have numerous springs and seeps that form the headwater source of several coldwater streams that maintain trout habitat.

Year round access to this conservation reserve is limited and can be achieved either via an intersecting Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trail that runs in a northwest-southeast direction through much of the conservation reserve. The tertiary roadway, which traverses the southern limit of the site, facilitates walk-in access only.

Most of the site’s boundaries are vectored, except a very small portion in the northwest that follows the shoreline of two small waterbodies. The vectored boundaries reflect the adjacent patent lands, which surrounds most of the conservation reserve (see Tenure Map). Topographical features include moderately broken ground moraine, with some steep slopes and bedrock exposure, highland and steep slopes dominated by a mix of older poplar and younger tolerant hardwood species. There are some low-lying areas, which contain stands of balsam fir, black spruce and some small wetland communities.

The conservation reserve contains a low number of vegetation-landform communities, due to the lack of landform vegetation type diversity.

There are few human disturbances within the area and these are generally limited to snowmobiling in the winter, trapping and hunting. Some mortality and blowdown has occurred in the older poplar stands, and these stands are now succeeding to tolerant hardwoods.

4.2 Administrative description

The legal boundaries of the Sausage Lake Conservation Reserve were certified by the Surveyor General of Ontario in the Ministry of Natural Resources at Peterborough on October 20, 2000. The conservation reserve was passed into regulation on January 6, 2001 (O.Reg. 686/00).

4.3 Inventories

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

5.0 State of the resource

5.1 Representation

In late May 1997, the MNR (Natural Heritage Information Centre and Natural Heritage Section) carried out a natural heritage "gap analysis" project for Site District 5E-5 and 5E-8, in conjunction with Ontario Living Legacy’s Land Use Planning. The purpose of the gap analysis was to identify different vegetation and landform combinations that were not included in protected areas at that time. Geographic Information Systems technology was used and applied to the following criteria:

1. representation of landform- vegetation patterns
2. diversity
3. condition
4. ecological considerations; and
5. special features (Crins and Kor 1998)

This conservation reserve was identified through this gap analysis and contains at least 15 different vegetation types.

Life science features

The Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve exhibits a combination of landform vegetation types that contribute to the site’s distinctiveness. The upland areas are covered with a thin layer of sandy, acidic till, dominated by a mix of older poplar and younger tolerant hardwood species. These stands are classified as Ecosite 27 within the forest ecosystem classification system (FEC) of Central Ontario (Chambers et al, 1997). Dominant species within this class include sugar maple, white birch and white pine. The poplar stands are experiencing a decline and are being succeeded in certain parts of the conservation reserve by mixtures of tolerant and intolerant hardwood species including; black cherry, basswood, red maple and white birch. Small isolated pockets of white spruce, balsam fir and white pine are also present. Blowdowns and poplar mortality have created openings in the canopy and will provide successional opportunities for understory vegetation. There are a few supercanopy white spruce and white pine which increase the overall diversity of the conservation reserve.

Small lakes, creeks and beaver ponds, beaver meadows, marshes and alder swamps, ringed with white spruce and balsam fir can be found throughout the conservation reserve. These wetland and open water communities occupy less than five percent of the conservation reserve. However, these communities contribute to the representative life science features protected by the regulation of this conservation reserve.

Earth science features

Kristjansson (2002) describes this area as being dominated by an extensive area of bedrock drift complex. Minor bedrock exposures can be found among a thin relatively continuous layer of sandy till. Some thick till deposits may also be present within this area of bedrock drift.

The lower elevation areas within the conservation reserve contain organic deposits. The deposits are extensive in the extreme west sections and are noteworthy.

5.1.1 Quality of the representation

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

(a) Diversity

Diversity is a measure of the conservation reserve’s earth and life science variety. The evaluation is based on the number and range (assortment) of landscape features and landforms for earth science values and the relative richness and evenness of the site’s life science components.

There are moderate landforms or earth science features represented within the conservation reserve including a bedrock drift complex with bedrock controlled upland topography representative of the Central Gneisses Belt, organic deposits, glaciofluvial outwash and ice-contact stratified-drift composite. The conservation reserve contains a significant mixture of till drift cover and stratified sediment with intervening lower elevations (i.e. wetlands). The upland woodlots have a mix of poplar, tolerant hardwood and coniferous species, while geological features and post-glacial deposits characterize the lowland areas. The varying topography, terrestrial and aquatic communities add to the life science diversity of the conservation reserve.

The associated glacial history of this site has unique landform/vegetation combinations. The distinct aquatic and terrestrial communities found within this conservation reserve range from wetland communities to transitional hardwood successional forests. Most of the forest is uneven aged deciduous, with older poplar giving way to tolerant hardwood species. Pockets of conifer and a few supercanopy white spruce and white pine increase the diversity somewhat. There is good diversity in the low-lying areas, however, wetlands and open areas occupy less that 5% of the conservation reserve. Therefore, the overall rating for diversity is low.

Wildlife diversity is expected to be high, since there are abundant wildlife values contained within the conservation reserve. Mast species (i.e. beech, cherry, basswood,), scattered conifers and conifer thickets, canopy openings with high shrub cover, super canopy trees, snags and downed woody debris are all abundant. These lowlands are prime beaver and moose habitat and the creeks and small lakes provide good fish habitat (Merchant, 2002).

(b) Condition

The conservation reserve is in good condition and has experienced limited human and natural disturbances. Most of the conservation reserve exhibits little evidence of human disturbance. Past logging has occurred in the area, but has left little trace of its occurrence. Some areas of mortality and blowdown have occurred within the poplar stands, these stands are presently undergoing a successional transition to tolerant hardwoods. An Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trail intersects the northwest to southeast corners. Overall, the forest cover and values within the conservation reserve are in good health.

The tertiary forest access road, which provides an access to the southern boundary, could place additional pressure on the conservation reserve by user groups, however the area is mainly used for low impact hunting and trapping purposes.

(c) Ecological factors

The conservation reserve lies in the hills leading to Algonquin Park. About half of the conservation reserve is vectored along patent lands, with the exception of the lakes in the northern portion of the site. Several private lands border the eastern North Bay portion of the site, while the western site boundary is made up of a series of vectored lines, with the exception of two lakes where the conservation reserve boundary follows the western shorelines or the water’s edge. The main part of the conservation reserve has little access outside direct access via the OFSC trail. The Parry Sound portion of the conservation reserve consists of a series of vectored lines.

(d) Special features

The conservation reserve contains special life science features including several beaver ponds and sheltered creek valleys, which provide habitat and conifer cover for possible moose. The various springs and seeps form the headwater of several cold water streams, providing brook trout habitat (Merchant, 2002). The bedrock and surficial geology associated with conservation reserve are commonly encountered across site district 5E-8 (Huntsville), and are considered to be of local significance.

(e) Current land use activities

With limited access to the conservation reserve there are a small number of land use activities, which occur here. Primary activities include hunting and snowmobiling during winter months. There is an active Bear Management Area, which overlaps with the conservation reserve. Hunting for other species such as moose, upland birds and waterfowl also occur here. There are no registered traplines within the North Bay portion of the conservation reserve, however some resident trappers may use this area. A Parry Sound Trapline overlaps with the southern portion of the site. There are two registered baitfish harvesters, one for the North Bay Township of Himsworth South and one for the Parry Sound Township of Laurier. Baitfish licenses are issued on a township basis and existing harvesting can occur anywhere within the licensed agreement, including the conservation reserve. There is an active Land Use Permit (LUP) for a hunting and fishing camp in the northeast quadrant of the conservation reserve.

None of the identified land use activities have contributed to any notable adverse impacts on the internal values of the conservation reserve.

There are no existing mining, timber harvesting, aggregate extraction or utility activities within the conservation reserve.

(f) Summary

The Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve contains a low number of landform vegetation types. The two distinct upland and low-lying communities are important features for life science study. The upland woodlots have a mix of poplar, tolerant hardwood and coniferous species, while geological features and post-glacial deposits characterize the lowland areas. The conservation reserve is in good physical condition and is host to a limited number of land use activities.

5.2 Social/economic interest in the area

(a) Linkage to local communities

The Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve consists entirely of Crown land. The accessible nature of the site has contributed to the existing land use activities of hunting, trapping, baitfish harvesting and snowmobiling. The conservation reserve has suitability for many activities given its size and habitat diversity. In addition to snowmobiling, the established trail system, which traverses the site, offers mountain biking and ATV opportunities during the summer months. Other seasonal, low impact activities could include but are not limited to; bird watching, photography, nature study and snowshoeing.

(b) Heritage estate contributions

The Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve contributes to the province’s parks and protected areas system through its regulation, representation and the long-term management of its natural heritage values. As noted in section 5.1, this site was identified for protection in order to fill gaps in vegetation/landform representation, as identified in MNR's gap analysis. The conservation reserves contains a minimum of 15 such combinations.

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

The conservation reserve’s ecological features make a number of contributions to the province’s natural heritage estate. Its distinguished post-glacial characteristics and associated upland forests along with other mixed aquatic and terrestrial communities contribute significantly to the provincial parks and protected areas system. The lack of recreational infrastructure allows for a certain level of backcountry opportunities and experiences.

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

(c) Aboriginal groups

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

(d) Mining industry

There are no known current mining interests, claims and/or leases within the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve. Mining and surface rights have been withdrawn from staking within the conservation reserve’s boundaries under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 Chapter M.14).

There is a mining claim that abuts the conservation reserve south of the shared boundary. In addition, there are mining leases to the southwest and a number of patented properties for both surface and mineral rights surrounding the conservation reserve.

(e) Forest management

Commercial forest harvesting is not permitted in the regulated boundaries of the conservation reserve nor are personal use permits issued for wood harvesting. Commercial harvesting is permitted in adjacent areas, which form part of the Nipissing and French-Severn Forest Management Plans. Harvesting activities are subject to work plans approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources within prescribed harvesting practices. Harvesting is permitted in adjacent areas, as approved in the Forest Management Plans and is permitted up to the conservation reserve boundary.

(f) Utilities

There are no existing commercial utilities associated with the conservation reserve.

5.3 Natural Heritage Stewardship

Analysis of life science targets based on landform/vegetation combinations have shown that the conservation reserve contains a minimum of 15 such combinations. The most significant conservation reserve features includes tolerant hardwood uplands on shallow till, the recognized glacial history of the site, and its complementary habitats including various wetlands and additional mixed wood stands.

5.4 Fisheries and wildlife

There have been no detailed wildlife studies undertaken within the conservation reserve. The importance of the conservation reserve to wildlife species has yet to be determined, particularly for those species, and habitats thereof, that may be vulnerable, threatened or endangered.

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

5.5 Cultural Heritage Stewardship

There are no archeological sites identified within the conservation reserve. The North Bay District portion of the map has some identified high potential heritage areas (see Cultural Heritage Values Map). High potential cultural heritage areas are identified using a computer based predictive modeling program. Based on a series of pre-defined parameters, the program identifies candidate areas, which are most likely to be culturally significant.

5.6 Land use/existing development

There is one building (hunting/fishing camp) found in the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve.

5.7 Commercial use

There are registered non-industrial commercial uses which occur in the conservation reserve. Adjacent activities include trapline NB-79 east of the conservation reserve (North Bay District) and trapline BR-36 that overlaps the Parry Sound portion of the reserve. Bear management area NB-48-02, overlaps with the North Bay portion of the conservation reserve, and both Himsworth South and Laurier Townships are licensed for commercial baitfish harvesting.

5.8 Tourism/recreation use/opportunities

With the exception of the OFSC trail, there is no known infrastructure supporting any recreational activity within the conservation reserve boundaries, no additional trails have been identified within the conservation reserve.

Recreational activities such as hunting and snowmobiling do occur within the conservation reserve.

5.9 Client services

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

6.0 Management guidelines

6.1 Management planning strategies

The land use intent outlined in Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy provides context and direction to land use, resource management, and operational planning activities on Crown land. Commitments identified in the above strategy and current legislation (Policy 3.03.05 PLA) will form the basis for land use within Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve (see Appendix C). Management strategies for these uses must consider both the short and long-term objectives for the conservation reserve. For up to date information on permitted uses refer to the Crown Land Use Atlas.

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

Proposed uses and development within the boundaries of the conservation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. A Test of Compatibility, (Procedural Guideline B) - Land Uses - PL. 3.03.05) (see Appendix A) must be passed before they are deemed acceptable. The emphasis will be on ensuring that the natural values of the conservation reserve are not negatively affected by current or future land use activities. Therefore, any application for new specific uses will be carefully studied and reviewed. The Ministry, partner organizations and/or proponents may undertake such studies.

6.2 State of the resource management strategies

Administrative responsibility for the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve lies with the MNR's North Bay District, Wasi Area Supervisor for the northern portion while the southern portion will continue to be managed by the Bracebridge Area Supervisor, Parry Sound District MNR. Implementation of this SCI will primarily involve monitoring activities to ensure adherence to the management guidelines. The following management strategies have been created to achieve the goals and objectives stated earlier in this directional document:

Social/economic

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

Natural Heritage Stewardship

• MNR recognizes the need for forest fire disturbance to maintain certain types of ecosystems. These accepted disturbances are part of the life regeneration cycle of our natural forested landscape
• The principles of sensitive "Light on Land" fire suppression techniques will be practiced, where possible, in the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve. Fire response initiatives can include full, modified and monitored response depending on the anticipated fire impacts on the site, adjacent property, local infrastructure and the protected resource
• Prescribed burning may be utilized if deemed necessary to emulate natural disturbances and renew forest communities, prepare seed beds for research and/or education purposes or to meet additional objectives determined within a separate vegetative management plan. All scheduled prescribed burns (PBs) within the boundaries of this conservation reserve will be conducted as directed by the current PB Policy AF.03.23.02
• The management intent for the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve is to allow for natural ecosystems, processes and features to operate undisturbed with minimal human interference while providing educational, research and recreational activities. An exception could be made for fire suppression and selected forest pest and disease control where significant values may be threatened
• All earth and life science features will be protected by defining compatible uses and applying a "Test of Compatibility" to all new land use proposals and or developments. Enforcing regulations and monitoring and mitigating the impacts will apply to all existing and any new approved land use activities
• New Permits for fuel-wood will not be issued
• Activities that do not pass a Test of Compatibility will be prohibited (MNR Policy 3.03.05, 1997)
• The introduction of exotic and/or invasive species will not be permitted
• Programs may be developed to control forest insects and diseases where there is a concern that significant values may be threatened. Remedies must focus on the outbreak or infestation. Biological or non-intrusive solutions should be applied wherever possible
• The collection/removal of vegetation and parts thereof will not be permitted; however, subject to a Test of Compatibility, the Area Supervisor may authorize the collection of plants and/or parts for purposes of rehabilitating degraded sites within the conservation reserve, collecting seeds for maintaining genetic stock or research
• Research, education and interpretation will be encouraged to provide a better understanding of the management and protection of the natural heritage values and will be fostered through local and regional natural heritage programs, initiatives and partnerships

Fisheries and wildlife

• Fish and wildlife resources will continue to be managed in accordance with policies and regulations prevailing in the area and under the direction of the Wasi Area Supervisor. Provincial legislation and policy will dictate management and enforcement objectives for this area
• The management direction will endeavour to verify wildlife species present, ecological functions and habitat requirements
• First Nation Treaty rights will be respected (see Aboriginal Interests)
• Sport hunting will be permitted within the conservation reserve

Cultural heritage

• There are no known cultural heritage resources on-site or associated with the conservation reserve
• Should cultural heritage values be identified within or associated with the conservation reserve they will be documented as encountered, and the protection of these values will be maintained
• Research/education to provide a better understanding of the management and protection of cultural heritage values will be encouraged

Land use/existing development

• The management direction is to provide for land use activities, which complement and support educational and conservation objectives
• Existing land uses and development within the conservation reserve that conflict with the protection objectives (Test of Compatibility) will be identified and discontinued if impacts can't be mitigated
• New roads, sale of Crown land and utility corridors are prohibited
• Mechanized recreational travel (ATV, snowmobile) will be allowed to continue, provided they do not adversely affect the natural heritage values being protected. In general new mechanized recreation trails will be discouraged within the conservation reserve

Commercial use

• Existing non-industrial commercial uses such as trapping, baitfish harvesting and the operation of bear management areas will 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
• Consideration for new non-industrial commercial activities (i.e., bear management, baitfish harvesting and traplines) which overlap with the conservation reserve can be considered subject to a "Test of Compatibility"), consistent with provincial direction
• There are no known current mining interests claims and/or leases within the Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve. Mining and surface rights have been withdrawn from staking within the conservation reserve’s boundaries under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 Chapter M.14)
• Industrial activities such as commercial timber harvesting, prospecting, mining, hydro generation, new utility, transportation corridors and resource roads will not be permitted within the conservation reserve
• New trap line cabins will not be permitted
• Commercial enterprises offering ecotourism experiences within the conservation reserve will be considered providing these activities are low in intensity (small scale encroachments), and would not have a significant negative impact on the site values and are compatible with other uses

Aboriginal interests

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

Tourism/recreation

• The earth and life science features and their protection shall be the overall theme for tourism
• ATV use on trails, which traverse crown land, will be permitted to continue provided this use does not adversely impact the values being protected
• Non-trail snowmobiling or ATV use may be permitted for retrieval of game only. Conflict resolution between recreational uses will be undertaken, where necessary and with input from relevant user groups
• In general new mechanized recreation trails (ATV and snowmobile) will be discouraged within the conservation reserve
• New activities, such as facility infrastructure, will be considered on a case by case basis provided they are consistent with the intent and maintain the values of the site and pass a "Test of Compatibility"
• Emphasis will be placed on activities that have a low impact on the conservation reserve environment. Therefore, applications for new specific uses or facility infrastructure will be carefully studies and reviewed

Client services

• Information regarding the Sausage Lake Conservation Reserve may be delivered from different sources, however, MNR will be the lead agency for responding to inquiries
• A management agreement may be pursued with an appropriate partner to share responsibilities for information services and the delivery of other aspects of this SCI

6.3 Specific feature/area/zone management strategies

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

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

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

6.5 Implementation and plan review strategies

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

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

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

6.6 Marketing strategies

Messages should focus on the area’s natural heritage features representation, recreation opportunities, nature appreciation and education.

References

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

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

Crins, W. J. and Kor, P. S. G. Natural Heritage Gap Analysis Methodologies Used by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Unpublished Paper. Peterborough: OMNR, 1998.

Crins, W.J. pers. Comm., 2002

EMR Canada. 1994. Topographic Map 1:50,000. South River. Sheet 31 E/14.

Kristjansson, F.J., December 10, 2001. Earth Science Checksheet: Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve (C70).

Merchant, B., May, 2002. Natural Heritage Area – Life Science Checksheet: Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve (C70).

Mitsch, W.J., and Gosselink J.G., 2000. Wetlands: Third Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Glossary: 771-784.

NTS Topographic Mapping.

OFRI. 1994a. Boreal East Landforms Mapping – Satellite Imagery.

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

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

OMNR. 1:20,000 1989 Aerial Photos.

OMNR. 1997c. Ontario Watershed Mapping.
OMNR. Lakes 1:60,00,000 Mapping.

OMNR. MTO Roads 1:600,000 Mapping.

OMNR. Patent 1:600,000 Mapping.

OMNR. Railway 1:600,000 Mapping.

OMNR. Townships 1:600,000 Mapping

OMNR. Transmission Lines 1:600,000 Mapping.

OMNR. North Bay District. 2002. C70 Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve File.

OMNR. North Bay District. 1998. Forest Resources Inventory Mapping (Age Corrected to 2002).

Roberts, S.K., February 4, 2002. Recreational Inventory Checksheet: Sausage Lake Forest Conservation Reserve (C70).

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

Appendix A

Procedural guideline B – Land uses – Test of Compatibility

Public Lands Act Policy PL 3.03.05 (procedure 3.03.05)

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

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

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

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

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

Appendix B

Glossary of terms

Bedrock-Drift Complex: Bedrock terrain including area of moderate bedrock exposure (estimate 25 to 75 percent bedrock outcrop) and discontinuous drift, and areas of apparently bedrock controlled topography (estimate <25 percent bedrock outcrop) overlain by a thin, relatively continuous drift cover. The associated drift cover is commonly composed of till deposits, although the cover sediment types can be dominant; local areas of relatively thick till deposits may be present, as well as colluvial deposits associated with the bedrock slopes.

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

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

Marsh: ^{footnote 1[1]} A frequently or continually inundated wetland characterized by emergent herbaceous vegetation adapted to saturated soil conditions.

Organic Deposits: Primarily consists of peat and muck. ^{footnote 2[2]} Peat (fabric organic soil material, with virtually all of the organic matter allowing for the identification of plant forms). ^{footnote 3[3]} Muck (sapric organic soil mater decomposed, not allowing for the identification of plant form); organic sediment which has accumulated in poorly drained depressions and other poorly drained areas in terrestrial settings, or has infilled various shallow aquatic environments.

Site Region: Ontario has a total of 13 site regions. Site regions are broad climatic zones distinguished by their north-south temperature and east-west precipitation gradient.

Site District: Ontario has a total of 65 site districts. Site districts are the distinctive physiographic areas found within the site regions. Each site district contains landform patterns and biological productivity traits that distinguish it from other site districts. Finer landscape units are defined in each site district based on reoccurring landform patterns. Close to one half of these landform patterns and the vegetation and species they support are found within Ontario’s provincial parks.

Swamp: ^{footnote 4[4]} Wetland dominated by trees or shrubs.

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

Wetland: ^{footnote 5[5]} Generally they have the presence of shallow water or flooded soils for part of the growing season and have organisms adapted to this wet environment, and have soil indicators of this flooding such as hydric soils.

Appendix C

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

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

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

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

Appendix D

Public Lands Act Policy (3.03.05) Conservation Reserve permitted use table

Indicator uses for Conservation Reserves

Recreation

Science, education & heritage appreciation

Commercial activities

Resource management

Industrial activities

Other activities