Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve Management Statement

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
Information and Resource Management, Sudbury District
November 2004

Ce document est seulement disponsible en anglais.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Sudbury District

Approval statement

I am pleased to approve this Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve (C210).

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve represents a hardwood forest of red maple, red oak and red pine on low rolling hills and a provincially significant earth science representation of the Killarney Magmatic Belt. The lakes and wetlands protected by the site also provide various hydrological functions. Regulated on November 22, 2002, this 725-hectare conservation reserve is situated in Tilton and Eden Townships, approximately 10 kilometres southwest of the City of Greater Sudbury.

Direction for establishing, planning and managing conservation reserves is defined under the Public Lands Act, the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas, the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy and other applicable policies. The specific direction for managing this conservation reserve is in the form of a basic SCI, which defines the area to which the plan applies, provides the purpose for which the conservation reserve has been proposed, and outlines the Ministry of Natural Resources' management intent for the protected area. This SCI has been created with input from program specialists within the Sudbury District. It will provide both the foundation for the continued monitoring of activities and guidance for the management of the conservation reserve. More detailed direction at this time is not anticipated. However, should significant facility development be considered or complex issues arise requiring additional studies, more detailed management direction in the form of special protection measures, or a detailed Resource Management Plan, will be prepared with full public consultation.

Public and Aboriginal consultation occurred prior to the regulation of this conservation reserve. An additional 30-day consultation period took place in October 2004 which provided stakeholders an opportunity to comment on the draft SCI. Comments from the review period have been considered in the development of this document.

The management guidelines outlined in this SCI will be implemented by the Sudbury Area Supervisor, and will be reviewed every five years and amended as required by the District Planner, Sudbury District, and Ministry of Natural Resources.

Prepared by:
Joey Young, Mike Jackson
Crown Land and Protected Areas Planning Assistants
Date: November 2004

Recommended for Approval by:
Ernie Heerschap for
Stephen Devos
A/Sudbury Area Supervisor
Date: 18/01/2005

And,

Cindy Blancher-Smith
District Manager, Sudbury District
Date: 31/01/2005

Approved by:
Rob Galloway
Regional Director, Northeast Region
Date: 09/02/2005

Executive summary

The purpose of this Statement of Conservation Interest is to identify and describe the natural, recreational, and cultural values of Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve and to outline and guide the Ministry of Natural Resources' management intent for this area.

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve (C210) was regulated on November 22, 2002. The 725- hectare conservation reserve is situated in Tilton and Eden Townships and is located approximately 10 kilometres southwest of the old City of Sudbury. The administrative details of the site are summarized in Table 1 below.

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve represents a hardwood forest of red maple, red oak and red pine on low rolling hills. The lakes and wetlands protected by the site also provide various hydrological functions, which include acting as a headwater for Long Lake, supplying groundwater recharge, and attenuating run-off during spring freshet. The site also represents a provincially significant earth science representation of the Killarney Magmatic Belt. The protection of these features is considered paramount and future management decisions that affect these values will require a thorough evaluation to ensure that the values remain protected.

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Sudbury District, and Sudbury Area will be responsible for implementing the management policies and guidelines for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve. Their primary role will be to provide public information and compliance monitoring to ensure adherence to current policies and guidelines.

Table 1: Administrative details for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve (C210).

1.0 Introduction

The following document is a Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI) for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve (C210). The purpose of this SCI is to identify and describe the natural, recreational, and cultural values of Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve and to outline the Ministry of Natural Resources' management intent for this area. The first three sections of this document highlight the provincial context in which it was produced, state its goal and objectives, and summarize the planning process for conservation reserves. Sections 4.0 through 7.0 are specific to Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve and provide background information and management direction for the site. Section 8.0 outlines the requirements for continued implementation and review of this document.

Management direction specified in this SCI will serve to protect the conservation reserve for the benefit of all Ontario residents. This direction will comply with the land use intent and guidelines stated in the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas (CLUPA) on the internet at /page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas. The CLUPA is a consolidation of existing local land use policies for Crown lands within the Ontario Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (LUS) (1999) planning area, an area that covers 45 percent of the province and that extends from Lake Simcoe in the south to the Albany River in the north. Additionally, this conservation reserve will be managed under the Public Lands Act (R.S.O. 1990, c.P.43), and will comply with all legal requirements as specified under the Environmental Assessment Act (R.S.O. 1990, c.E.18).

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve represents a hardwood forest of red maple, red oak and red pine on low rolling hills and a provincially significant earth science representation of the Killarney Magmatic Belt. The lakes and wetlands protected by the site also provide various hydrological functions, which include acting as a headwater for Long Lake, supplying groundwater recharge, and attenuating run-off during spring freshet. The protection of these features is considered paramount and future management decisions that affect these values will require a thorough evaluation to ensure that the values remain protected.

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Sudbury District, and Sudbury Area will be responsible for implementing the management policies and guidelines for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve. Their primary role will be to provide public information and compliance monitoring to ensure adherence to current policies and guidelines.

2.0 Goal and objectives of the SCI

2.1 Goal

The goal of this SCI is to provide the framework and the direction to guide management decisions affecting Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve while protecting natural heritage values and permitting land use.

2.2 Objectives

The following objectives are identified as the means to achieve the above stated goal:

2.2.1 Short term objectives

• To describe the site’s current state of the resource in terms of its values and existing uses and activities
• To outline the Ministry of Natural Resources' management intent for the protected area
• To determine the land use compatibility of current land uses, and to develop specific guidelines and prescriptions to manage these uses
• To provide direction for the evaluation of proposed new uses or economic ventures through the application of the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and applicable Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves) legislation

2.2.2 Long term objectives

• To maintain the conservation reserve in as natural state as possible
• To identify research and/or monitoring strategies that may contribute to sound long-term management of the conservation reserve
• To create public awareness of the values within this conservation reserve by providing information on the resources it contains and protects, and to support responsible stewardship through partnerships with local stakeholders

3.0 Management planning

3.1 Provincial context

Ontario’s network of protected areas has been established to conserve representative areas of the province’s natural diversity (which includes species, habitats, landforms, and ecological systems). Protected natural heritage areas are a key component in the sustainable management of natural resources, ensuring that representative sites within the larger managed landscape are retained in as natural a state as possible.

On July 16, 1999, the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (LUS) (OMNR 1999) was released to guide the planning and management of much of Ontario’s Crown lands. Extensive consultation was conducted during the development of the LUS. The objectives of the LUS were to complete Ontario’s system of parks and protected areas; recognize the land use needs of the resource-based tourism industry; provide forestry, mining and other resource industries with greater certainty around land and resource use; and, enhance hunting, angling and other Crown land recreational opportunities.

These areas are considered to have significant features and values or are representative of major landforms and vegetation types. As such, they require protection from incompatible activities in order for their values to endure over time. The Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve was created during this expansion and now forms part of Ontario’s network of natural heritage areas. Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve was selected because of its good representation of hardwood forests of red maple (Acer rubrum), red oak (Quercus rubra) and red pine (Pinus resinosa) on low rolling hills.

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources has established conservation reserves as a tool to protect natural heritage values on Crown lands, while permitting most traditional Crown land uses to continue. These uses include recreational activities, such as hunting and fishing. Lands designated as conservation reserves in the LUS (OMNR 1999) are removed from the

Sustainable Forest License area and mining and surface rights are withdrawn from staking under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 Chapter M.14).

The Crown Land Use Policy Atlas (CLUPA), available on the internet at /page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas, is a consolidation of existing Crown land use policies and is now the official source for guidance on the management of Crown land and protected areas (OMNR 2004).

3.2 Planning for a Conservation Reserve

The planning process for a conservation reserve consists of regulating the site and preparing a site-specific management plan. Consultation with the public, aboriginal communities and industry occur during site identification, boundary finalization, and management planning. Regulation of a conservation reserve involves the preparation of a legal description of site boundaries, the removal of the site from the Sustainable Forest Licence area, and the withdrawal of the site from staking under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 Chapter M.14). Once a conservation reserve is regulated, the level of management planning required to fulfill the protection targets is determined, and a basic Statement of Conservation Interest (SCI), enhanced SCI or a Resource Management Plan (RMP) is prepared.

A basic SCI is prepared when there is no deviation from the land use direction provided in the LUS (OMNR 1999) and there are few to no issues that require resolution. Alternatively, a RMP is prepared in situations where one or more complex issues have to be addressed, and/or where there is widespread public interest in a site. An enhanced SCI is an intermediary document which is used when a site requires more detailed management direction than would be provided by a basic SCI, but does not have issues significant enough to warrant the preparation of a RMP. Whichever the determination, the plan must be completed within three years of the conservation reserve’s regulation date. The guidelines for the preparation of these documents are provided in Procedural Guidelines A – Resource Management Planning (OMNR 1997) and the Northeastern Region Guidelines on the Planning Process for Conservation Reserves: Statement of Conservation Interest and Resource Management Plan (Thompson 2001).

A SCI is a management plan guided by the policy direction contained in the CLUPA (see Appendix C). The purpose of a SCI is to identify the state of the resource in terms of the site’s values and its current land use activities, and to outline the Ministry of Natural Resources' management intent for the conservation reserve. Basic SCI's typically have a 30-day public consultation period, whereas enhanced SCI's and RMP's have a longer consultation period. Upon completion of this public review, the SCI or RMP is revised as necessary and approved by the Regional Director, MNR Northeast Region.

Existing permitted uses within conservation reserves may continue, unless they are shown to have a significant negative impact on the values protected by the site. A review/evaluation mechanism is in place to address new permitted uses or land use proposals. The Test of Compatibility (Appendix D), as outlined in the Conservation Reserves Policy PL 3.03.05 (OMNR 1997a) and Environmental Assessment Act legislation will be used to screen proposals. Once approved, the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves (OMNR 2003b) will be used to screen most project proposals and management activities occurring within the conservation reserve.

Where cultural resources may be impacted, proposals may be screened through Conserving a Future for our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning & Development in Ontario, Section 3 (MCzCR 1997).

Public comment may be solicited during a review of any future land use proposals that require new decisions to be made. Appropriate Environmental Assessment Act (R.S.O. 1990, c.E.18) requirements and amendment processes (e.g. Environmental Bill of Rights posting, CLUPA amendment) will apply to any future proposal and/or any significant change in management direction being considered for a site.

3.3 Planning process for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

3.3.1 Boundary refinement and regulation

The Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve was proposed as a conservation reserve in the LUS (OMNR 1999). A letter, fact sheet and proposed boundary map were mailed to stakeholders and to interested members of the public during the boundary consultation process. Consultation occurred with the general public, aboriginal communities, and industry, and the boundary of the site was regulated through an amendment to Ontario Regulation 805/94 of the Public Lands Act on November 22, 2002, by Ontario Regulation 313/02. The official Ontario Gazette amendment is available on the internet at /search/ontario-gazette in volume 135, issue 49 on December 7, 2002.

3.3.2 Planning area

The planning area for this SCI consists of the regulated boundary for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve (see Figure 1). However, to fully protect values within the conservation reserve, the area beyond the regulated boundary may require additional consideration through landowner outreach programs when adjacent land uses pose potential negative impacts on the conservation reserve. Crown land areas beyond the regulated boundary may also require additional consideration when larger land use planning initiatives, such as forest management planning, pose potential negative impacts on the site.

3.3.3 Consultation and significant land use issues

To date, no significant issues related to land use in this area have been identified. For this reason, it was determined that a basic SCI will adequately identify the site’s significant features and serve as the appropriate format for providing management direction. It should be noted that this document addresses only those issues or land use proposals currently known to the Ministry of Natural Resources, Sudbury District. The direction provided by this SCI, and future management decisions, will work to resolve any potential land use conflicts and ensure that identified values continue to be adequately protected.

This SCI has been created with input from program specialists at the area, district, regional and provincial levels of the Ministry of Natural Resources. Public, aboriginal communities and industry were also provided an opportunity to comment on a draft of this SCI. A public consultation period took place October 13^th, 2004 to November 13^th, 2004. Notification of this review period occurred via an information package mailed to affected stakeholders and an advertisement that appeared in local newspapers. Comments received during this period were considered in the refinement of this document. Upon approval of this SCI, public notification will occur via mail-out to interested stakeholders and a notice will appear in the same local newspapers.

4.0 Background information

4.1 Location and site description

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is located adjacent to the southern limit of the municipal boundary of the City of Greater Sudbury. The site is approximately 10 kilometres southwest of the downtown core of the old City of Sudbury in Eden and Tilton Townships. The 725-hectare conservation reserve is situated approximately 2 kilometres east of the Eden Township Forest Conservation Reserve (C157) and about 25 kilometres due northeast of Killarney Provincial Park (P331). Figure 1 illustrates the general location of the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

Figure 1: Locator Map for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

Enlarge figure 1 locator Map for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

Whenever possible, recognizable natural and cultural features, such as creeks, shorelines or old roads have been used to delineate conservation reserve boundaries to facilitate on-the-ground identification (see Figure 1). The south and east boundaries of the site follow a system ofnatural lakes and rivers. A series of vectored lines (straight line between two known points) comprise the north and western boundaries. A portion of the northwest boundary follows patented lands south of Tilton Lake and the road to and private lands on the western shore of Wolfe Lake are also excluded from the conservation reserve.

The conservation reserve can be found by traveling southwest from Sudbury via Long Lake Road (Highway 80) to Tilton Lake Road. Access into the conservation reserve is relatively remote. A driveway from Tilton Lake road to the private residences on Wolfe Lake is not part of the conservation reserve; however, access to the northern portion of the site from the travel corridor may be available. An access road leading into private lands along Chief Lake exists north of the conservation reserve. Evidence of other trails and roads entering the conservation reserve was not identified during an aerial inventory of the site.

Figure 2: Aerial view of Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve showing an extensive creek and wetland system in the northeast section of the site.

(Photograph by B. Burkhardt, August 2003)

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is located within Sudbury Ecodistrict ^{footnote 1[1]} 5E-4 (Hills 1959), an ecological unit which incorporates most of the area comprising the City of Greater Sudbury. Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is full of red maple throughout most of the site and represents red maple, red oak and red pine on a landscape of low rolling hills. The conservation reserve also protects a series of lakes and wetlands that provide various hydrological functions, which include acting as a headwater for Long Lake, providing groundwater recharge, and attenuating run-off during spring freshet. Subsections 5.2.1- Earth Science and 5.2.2- Life Science further discuss ecological values within the conservation reserve.

4.2 Site history

Much of the area surrounding Sudbury (including the area of Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve) has been influenced by logging and mining operations, which began to occur in the mid nineteenth century. Subsequently, a number of settlers became situated in the Long Lake area during the early 1900's, to pursue farming and lumber activities (Cudmore et al. 2004). The Victoria Harbour Logging Company had a mill on the eastern part of the lake. In 1912, the Long Lake Gold Mine, which operated from 1909-1916, was the largest gold producing mine in Ontario (City of Greater Sudbury 2004). Smelting emissions changed the chemical composition of soil and water, causing vegetation to die and exposing massive tracts of land to erosion, for more detailed information see subsection 5.3.1- Site Condition (Cudmore et al. 2004).

The City of Greater Sudbury (www.greatersudbury.ca) indicates that several artefacts (i.e. chert, flint-like projectile tip; quartzite knife) were found on the shores of Long Lake, which suggests that ancient people lived and hunted in the Sudbury area.

4.3 Socio-economic interest

The Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is adjacent to and a small portion within the municipality of the City of Greater Sudbury. The employment base of the region surrounding the City of Greater Sudbury is dependent on the resources of the area. Mining, forestry, trapping and resource-based tourism have been essential to the historical growth and development of the area.

Active Bear Management Area, trapline and baitfish harvesting operations occur within the site; as well, hunting and angling are activities in the general area that are part of the local economy.

The site is potentially important to local residents for remote recreational opportunities, because of its close proximity to a large urban centre. The designation of this area as a conservation reserve allows for managed free-use of the area, while protecting the natural heritage values of the site for future generations.

The conservation reserve lies within the Robinson-Huron Treaty Area #9 and is in close proximity to the Whitefish Lake First Nation. Protection of this area ensures that activities traditionally carried out by First Nation communities in this Treaty Area will be able to continue.

4.4 Inventories

Table 2 indicates the current status of natural heritage inventories that have occurred for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve. Recommendations for future inventory needs are located in Table 3, section 7.0- Recommendations.

Table 2: Inventory and survey information for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

5.0 State of the resource

Descriptions in this section are not necessarily complete. If new values key or otherwise are identified, they will be added to this document as an amendment. If any new value is considered significant, management guidelines may be modified, if required, to ensure its protection.

5.1 Key values

Key values are values that make this site unique and have led to its designation as a conservation reserve. Their protection is paramount. The key values of the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve include the following:

• A representation of hardwood forest of red maple, red oak and scattered red pine forests on low rolling hills
• A series of lakes and wetlands that provide various hydrological functions
• A provincially significant earth science representation of the Killarney Magmatic Belt

Additional values, listed in subsection 5.2- Natural Heritage Values, are also important features and activities identified within the site.

5.2 Natural heritage values

5.2.1 Earth science values

5.2.1a regional landforms

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is found within Sudbury Ecodistrict 5E-4 of the Georgian Bay Ecoregion 5E (Hills 1959; Crins & Uhlig 2000). The ecodistrict is characterized mainly by bedrock outcrops shallowly covered by stony sand and stone-free silt. Pockets of water-laid silt/sand and sand/gravel plains are also present in this ecodistrict. The ecoregion contains both lowland areas of water-laid materials broken by bedrock outcrops and upland areas of bedrock overlain with material from gravel to silty sands of varying depths (Cudmore et al. 2004).

5.2.1b Surficial geology

According to Kristjansson (2004), the surficial geological features found within the site are common within the region and are considered locally significant. An extensive area of Bedrock-Drift Complex (Unit 2ac) dominates the surficial geology of this conservation reserve (Kristjansson 2004). A small area of Glaciolacustrine Deposits (Unit 6) made up of silt, sand and clay occurs within the extreme northwest lowland. The southeast lowland also contains a small area of Organic Deposits (Unit 9). In addition, numerous minor areas of organic deposits are present throughout the conservation reserve.

Eroded soils are common in this area due to extensive disturbance such as cutting, fire and smelter fumes (Cudmore et al. 2004).

5.2.1c Bedrock geology

Bedrock is the dominant landform in the conservation reserve (Map 2, Appendix A). The morphology of the bedrock surface is dominated by bedrock knob (or knoll) forms with intervening, lower elevation areas. Moderate bedrock exposure associated with a discontinuous cover of gravelly till is generally anticipated within this area of bedrock-drift complex (Kristjansson 2004). Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is underlain by underlain by felsic intrusive rocks, more specifically, by the Chief Lake Granite, of the Killarney Magmatic Belt, Precambrian Shield (Kristjansson 2004). The Killarney Magmatic Belt "is bounded to the north and west by metamorphosed rocks of the Huronian Supergroup, and to the south by the Grenville Front Boundary Fault" (Easton, 1992, p. 717), and is considered to be a distinct geological region within mid-continental North America.

Kristjansson (2004) indicates that there does not appear to be any significant representation of the Killarney Magmatic Belt within Ontario’s system of protected areas, although there may be some representation in Killarney Provincial Park. The Killarney Magmatic Belt appears to constitute a distinct geological region, and represents part of the earth science diversity of Ontario. The area of the Killarney Magmatic Belt encompassed by the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is considered to be of provincial significance.

5.2.2 Life science values

5.2.2a Regional ecology

Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve is found within Ecodistrict 5E-4 of Ecoregion 5E (Georgian Bay) (Hills 1959; Crins & Uhlig 2000). Vegetation in this region typically consists of sugar maple (Acer saccharum), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensi), eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), and white pine (Pinus strobus) on fresh sites; white spruce (Picea glauca) and balsam fir on fresh clays and cooler valleys mixed with hardwoods at higher altitudes; and black spruce and tamarack (Larix laricina) in cold wet areas. Forest climate for this area is mid-humid, warm-boreal. The area is also located in section L.4e (Sudbury-North Bay) of Rowe’s (1972) Great Lakes – St. Lawrence Forest Region. Presently, pioneer species such as trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) and white birch occur, with only scattered occurrences of regional characteristic species such as jack pine (Pinus banksiana), sugar maple, yellow birch, red pine, white pine, balsam fir and black spruce.

5.2.2b Vegetation and forest communities

The main forest community within the conservation reserve is red oak dominant hardwood (30.8% of the total area). Coupled with some red pine, these red oak stands are found on bedrock-till complex of gravel and silty sand. White birch forest communities are also common within the site (Map 3, Appendix A). Red maple can be found throughout the conservation reserve and is present in 74 of the 80 forest stands. The majority of forest communities are in the 30-59 age range; other than the poplar stands in the southern section and northwest corner of the site and the white birch-hardwood stands in the northeast section of the conservation reserve, which are all in the 60-89 age range (Cudmore et al. 2004). Under definitions developed by Uhlig et al. (2000), there is no candidate old growth stand within the conservation reserve.

Since the core oak dominant hardwood community is growing in areas of thin soils or exposed bedrock, especially in the northeast section of the site, the stand is poorly stocked ^{footnote 2[2]} at between 1-40% (Cudmore et al. 2004). The rest of the stocking in the conservation reserve is slightly higher (mostly 41-60% and 61-80%), probably because of the glaciolacustrine deposits in the northwest and the organic deposits in the southeast. Due to the presence of bedrock, there is also low stocking (1-40%) in the northeast section of the conservation reserve (Cudmore et al. 2004).

5.2.2c Fish and wildlife

Wolfe Lake and other lakes within the conservation reserve contain warm water fisheries, which typically include species such as northern pike (Esox lucius), bass (Micropterus species), yellow perch (Perca flavescens) and possibly walleye (Stizostedion vitreum). The numerous wetland areas within the site (see section 5.2.2d - Wetlands and Watersheds) likely provide habitat and food resources for a variety of avian species and other wildlife.

Evidence of moose (Alces alces) and black bear (Ursus americanus) were found during field reconnaissance of the site. Beaver (Castor canadensis) lodges were located within the site and a meadow marsh in the southwest corner of the site is a result of beaver activity (Cudmore et al. 2004). Elk (Cervus elaphus) may occasionally be seen within the conservation reserve.

5.2.2d Wetlands and watersheds

There are several wetlands (Map 4, Appendix A) in the conservation reserve, mainly concentrated in the eastern and central portions of the site. Eight different types of wetlands can be found throughout the conservation reserve. At 11% of the total area of the conservation reserve, a good portion of the site is considered open muskeg (Cudmore et al. 2004). The large wetland complex located in the east section of the site was determined to be a wetland complex consisting of floating fens, poor fen and open bog. Vegetation at this location is dominated by leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata) with pockets of cottongrass (Eriophorum species), bog rosemary (Andromeda polifolia) and fuzzy brown moss (Tomentypnum nitens) in wet conditions (Cudmore et al. 2004). The vegetation changes and forms a matted layer over the water, as it approaches the water’s edge. Vegetation here consists of grasses, sphagnum moss (Sphagnum species), cranberry (Vaccinium species), St. Johns wort (Hypericum punctatum) and roundleaf sundew (Drosera rotundifolia). Most of the depressions in the conservation reserve were open graminoid bogs consisting mostly of sedges (Carex species) with some reed grass (Calamagrostis species), leatherleaf and cottongrass (Cudmore et al. 2004).

The conservation reserve is located in the tertiary watershed 2CF of the Lake Huron major basin. Hydrologically, the site performs several functions. The unnamed lake at the northeast corner and Wolfe Lake are headwater lakes feeding into Long Lake to the west via numerous creeks and small lakes. The conservation reserve and area also function as groundwater recharge due to the landforms. The bedrock contains faults that would allow water to seep below the surface. The till material is permeable allowing more efficiency in conveying water downwards. Furthermore, the many bogs and wetland complex in the interior of the conservation reserve serve two functions. As there are no surface outflows during spring run-off, the area is very efficient for attenuating flood crests. The wetlands of the site also function as a sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide as long as it remains saturated with water (Cudmore et al. 2004).

5.2.2e Species at risk

No Species at Risk species have been identified or documented within the conservation reserve.

5.2.3 Recreational values

Due to the relatively remote access into the site and lack of existing trail system, recreational activities within the conservation reserve are limited. Nevertheless, some activities (e.g. fishing on Wolfe Lake) are thought to occur. Some winter activities, including dog sledding and cross-country skiing, are also reported to occur with the conservation reserve but evidence of these activities have yet to be documented.

Hunting of black bear, moose, deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and grouse (Bonasa umbellus) occurs within the site and adjacent areas.

Rock-climbing, wildlife viewing and snowshoeing are potential activities that could occur within the conservation reserve. The rock formations along the northeastern boundary of the conservation reserve provide low-grade opportunities for top-rope climbing and mountaineering. The extensive wetlands at interior of the conservation reserve may provide excellent opportunities to view and photograph a variety of wildlife, due to the remote character of the area. Snowshoeing may also be a reasonable method of travelling through the site when the lakes and ponds freeze over and could be associated with winter camping and ice fishing.

5.2.4 Cultural values

The conservation reserve is located within the Robinson/Huron Treaty Area #9.

The area contained within the conservation reserve has been traditionally used for resource activities. Intensive forest harvest activities are known to have occurred throughout the area during the mid-nineteenth century. See section 4.2 – Site History for a more detailed discussion on historical occurrences within the conservation reserve.

5.2.5 Research values

No known research activities have occurred within the boundary of Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

5.3 Quality of the resource

5.3.1 Site condition

Condition^{footnote 3[3]} refers to the amount of disturbance that the site has experienced to date and includes both human and non-human or natural disturbances. Overall, the disturbance rating for this site is low. Although the entire site was exposed to a major human disturbance over 30 years ago there are no roads, trails or buildings within the site. The Sudbury Region was originally affected by extensive logging activities in the 1800's and then by the effects of smelting operations of both nickel and copper by INCO and Falconbridge Ltd. Years of exposure to highly acidic and metallic fumes caused the landscape to become inhabitable to many plants and tree species. Subsequently, reduced vegetative cover resulted in increased soil erosion. After 1972 when the superstack was built by INCO, the region (including the area of the conservation reserve) were reclaimed by adding lime to neutralize the acids and fertilizer to encourage vegetative growth, such as grasses and planted native tree species (i.e. oak, maple and red pine) (Shaw 1999; Cudmore et al. 2004). As a result, the conditions have improved greatly and the site is considered to be in a satisfactory state. Another human disturbance to the site includes a power line corridor linked from Tilton Lake Road to two cottages located on Wolfe Lake (Young 2004). One nonhuman disturbance in the conservation reserve involves a lake in the southwest corner that turned into a meadow marsh due to beaver activity (Cudmore et al. 2004).

Considering the relatively passive land uses anticipated within a conservation reserve (e.g., hunting), the various geological features are considered to have low sensitivity (Kristjansson 2004).

5.3.2 Diversity

Diversity is a measure of the site’s life and earth science heterogeneity. It is based on the number and range (variety) of the natural landscape features and landforms of earth science values and the richness and evenness of the life science components. The diversity rating4 is based on the landform-vegetation (L:V) combination criteria using geological landform interpretation (Kristjansson 2004) and vegetation communities data (Cudmore et al. 2004).

The conservation reserve is considered to have a low diversity rating (Cudmore et al. 2004). Defined in habitat units (HU's), the landform-vegetation combinations include 4 HU's and 7 wetlands on bedrock and 2 HU's and 3 wetlands on organic deposits, resulting in 16 landform-vegetation combinations in the conservation reserve (Map 3, Appendix A; Cudmore et al. 2004).

Due to a shift in the provincial data layer, a result of using different projections and scales, there has been a shift in values on the map so that the position of the organic deposit in Map 2, Appendix A is incorrect. The major organic deposits in the southeastern area are supposed to be represented in the dominant wetland located to the north. This was verified on the Northern Ontario Engineering Geology Terrain Study (NOEGTS) map (Gartner 1978), FRI data, aerial reconnaissance survey and Rik Kristjansson’s (2004) interpretations. An updated geological global information system (GIS) layer is required to accurately determine the true number of landform-vegetation combinations and determine the site’s actual diversity rating. Nevertheless, no provincially significant representations are found within the conservation reserve (Cudmore et al. 2004).

The variety of stocking increases diversity to the site, as well as the different sizes, types and dispersion of wetlands. The different types of wetlands such as the meadow marshes near the lakes and shorelines in the southern boundary and the floating mats in sections of the eastern boundary add to the diversity of the site’s values. Furthermore, the bedrock and lakes add to diversity of the site (Cudmore et al. 2004).

5.3.3 Ecological considerations

Wherever possible, a site’s boundaries should be created to include the greatest diversity of life and earth science features to provide maximum ecological integrity. It should be ecologically self-contained, bounded by natural features and include adequate area to protect the core ecosystems from adjacent land use activities (OMNR 1992). The conservation reserve is partially ecologically self-contained as the boundaries are a mix of biological, cultural and vectored borders. The biological boundaries dominate the southern and eastern area as it follows wetland, creek and lakeshores; the site captures additional aquatic and wetland diversity (Cudmore et al. 2004). The river, lake and wetland communities are small but they add additional protection to the key values by protecting the interior area. There are also rock features along the northern boundary that add additional protection to the interior features by making access into the site difficult. Although, had the whole site been more round in shape, it would have intact core area and protect adjacent land use activities (Cudmore et al. 2004).

The conservation reserve’s boundary line in the southwest would serve the stands better if the boundary line followed the creek’s shoreline and the township line. The creation of a new biological boundary would capture the key values better such as the red oak dominant hardwood and white birch predominant hardwood communities because it would incorporate the ^{footnote 4[4]} whole stand rather than it being severed (Cudmore et al. 2004). Expanding the northern boundary to the limit of the access road north of the site would provide additional protection to the core areas of the site, as well as provide a better on-the-ground indicator of the site’s boundaries.

No forest reserves are associated with this conservation reserve.

6.0 Management guidelines

All management guidelines in this SCI are based on the policy direction contained in the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas (CLUPA). For the most up-to-date version of this policy report, please refer to the CLUPA on the internet at /page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas, or contact your local Ministry of Natural Resources office. A summary table of the management guidelines, outlining permitted uses within the site, is located in Appendix C.

The management guidelines outlined in this section are specific to the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve and are intended to protect the site’s unique values. The guidelines in this document are subject to change and may be amended as necessary. If a conflict between management guidelines exists, the conservation reserve will be managed to protect the integrity of its natural values, while permitting compatible land use activities (OMNR 1997).

Proposed new uses and/or development, including research and education activities, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. All new proposals will be subject to evaluation under at least one of the following processes: the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D); the Environmental Assessment Act (R.S.O. 1990, c.E.18); and Conserving a Future for our Past: Archaeology, Land Use Planning & Development in Ontario, Section 3 (MCzCR 1997). Once approved, the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves (OMNR 2003a) will be used to screen most proposals and management activities occurring within the conservation reserve.

6.1 First nations

Traditional activities and Aboriginal rights, as defined in the Robinson-Huron Treaty #9 and other applicable legislation, will not be affected by the boundaries of this conservation reserve.

Any First Nation land claims within this area will be addressed according to appropriate Ministry of Natural Resources' procedures. When possible, the Ministry of Natural Resources will work with the Ontario Ministry of Culture to identify archaeological and/or cultural sites to be protected.

6.2 Industrial activities

6.2.1 Commercial timber harvest

The area contained within this conservation reserve (725 ha) has been withdrawn from the Sudbury Forest Sustainable Forest License area and no commercial timber harvesting will be permitted. Please refer to subsection 6.5.3- Non-Commercial Consumptive Resource Use for information regarding non-commercial wood harvesting.

6.2.2 Mining and exploration

There are no existing mining claims or leases within the area regulated as the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve. Mining and surface rights within the conservation reserve’s boundaries have been withdrawn from staking under the Mining Act (RSO 1990 c.M.14). Mineral exploration is not permitted.

6.2.3 Extraction of peat, soil, aggregate and other material

No extraction operations currently occur within the conservation reserve. New activities for the extraction of peat, soil, aggregate and other material are not permitted.

6.2.4 Energy generation

No energy generation facilities exist within the conservation reserve. New hydropower development and windpower generation operations are not permitted.

6.3 Existing and proposed development

6.3.1 Transportation corridors

6.3.1a Roads

Under the Public Lands Act, section 48 (OMNR 2003a), a road is defined as "a travel corridor that is reasonably capable of allowing travel by motor vehicles licensed to operate on a King’s Highway as defined in the Highway Traffic Act (e.g., personal or commercial cars and trucks)."

Minor maintenance (as defined under Policy PL 3.03.04 [OMNR 2003b]) of existing roads will be permitted provided that maintenance activities do not negatively impact the values being protected by the conservation reserve. Road maintenance activities may be subject to a Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) thru the Environmental Assessment Act.

No private roads exist within site. New access roads proposed after March 29, 1999 and, for which MNR did not make a commitment, will not be permitted within the conservation reserve.

According to the LUS (OMNR 1999), new roads for resource extraction will not be permitted except for those identified in Forest Management Plans prior to March 31, 1999. No new or existing roads for resource extraction were identified within the conservation reserve prior to this date.

6.3.1b Trails

Under Ontario Regulation 453/96 (OMNR 2003a), a trail is defined as "a path over public lands not used for mineral exploration or extraction." A trail is minor in nature compared to a road, allowing passage of pedestrians, ATVs, snowmobiles or the like (OMNR 2003b).

No recreational trails have been identified within the conservation reserve.

Any proposed new trails or development of existing trails are subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and applicable Ministry of Natural Resources' policies and procedures. Trail development should take into account the unique characteristics of this site and must be compatible with the site’s key values. All existing and new trailheads and trail routes must be recorded using new technologies (i.e. global positioning systems) to ensure an accurate record of the location of the feature. This location information must be provided to the Ministry of Natural Resources, Sudbury District.

6.3.2 Other corridor development/maintenance

A transmission corridor was identified within the conservation reserve during ground reconnaissance of the site, which stretches from Tilton Lake Road across the conservation reserve to private lands on Wolfe Lake.

Minor maintenance of the transmission corridor will be permitted if maintenance activities do not negatively impact the values being protected by the conservation reserve. Corridor maintenance may also be subject to a Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) or the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves).should the impact of such activity on the environment be questioned.

Any upgrading to the corridor should consider moving the transmission line to the limits of the private access road that runs from Tilton Lake Road to Wolfe Lake.

New corridor developments will be actively discouraged. Proposals for new corridors will be subject to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves).

6.3.3 Natural heritage appreciation facilities/recreational structures

There are currently no existing authorized natural heritage appreciation facilities or recreational structures (i.e. boardwalks, bird viewing platforms, kiosks, ski shelters, or interpretative signs) located within the conservation reserve. New public natural heritage appreciation facilities and recreation structures are permitted, subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves).

Facility development should take into account the unique characteristics of this site and must be compatible with the site’s key values

6.3.4 Land disposition

Sale of land is not permitted, except for some types of minor dispositions (e.g. the sale of small parcels of land to provide adequate area for the installation of a septic system), where it does not detrimentally affect the key values of the site. Such sales will be screened under the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) or the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Boundaries of the conservation reserve would need to be amended through a de-regulation process to reflect the sale of land.

Existing leases or LUP's may be renewed or transferred, subject to MNR approval. Private recreation camps may be eligible for enhanced tenure but may not be sold. Permit holders for outpost camps or tourism facilities (e.g., main base lodges) can apply to upgrade tenure from a LUP to a lease.

One Land Use Permit (LUP) is currently issued within this conservation reserve. New leases or LUP's may be issued for approved public uses (i.e. not for private recreation camps), subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and applicable Ministry of Natural Resources' policies and procedures. The Ministry of Natural Resources has agreed to sell this LUP (#1576-1004550) to the holder so requirements from the Ministry of Housing may be met. This sale has been on hold until the planning for this conservation reserve is complete. The Ministry of Natural Resources committed to this sale prior to March 29, 1999.

6.4 Commercial activities

6.4.1 Commercial bait harvesting

Eden Township and Tilton Township are both allocated for commercial bait harvesting operations. New operations may be considered subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves).

Any proposed new trails for baitfish harvesting purposes are subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Please refer to subsection 6.3.1b – Trails for further information on the establishment and maintenance of new trails and subsection 6.5.5 – ATV and Snowmobile Use for further information on their usage.

6.4.2 Commercial fishing

There are currently no commercial fisheries operating within the conservation reserve. New operations may be considered subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Please refer to subsection 6.5.5 – ATV and Snowmobile Use for further information on their usage.

6.4.3 Commercial fur trapping

Registered Trapline SU-64 encompasses the boundary of this conservation reserve. This registered trapline area is currently allocated to a head trapper. If a head trapper surrenders a registered trapline, or the head trapper’s privileges are revoked, the registered trapline may be transferred to another trapper following established allocation procedures. If the registered trapline is not transferred in due course, or remains unallocated for a significant period of time, reallocation of the trapline may occur following applicable district screening processes.

Any proposed new trails for the purposes of commercial fur trapping are subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Please refer to subsection 6.3.1b – Trails for further information on the establishment and maintenance of new trails and subsection 6.5.5 – ATV and Snowmobile Use for further information on their usage.

No licensed trap cabins currently exist within Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve. The establishment of new trap cabins will not be permitted.

6.4.4 Bear management areas

Two Bear Management Areas (BMAs), SU-42-001 and SU-42-009, is associated with this conservation reserve.

The policies regarding BMA's (OMNR 2003a) states that the issuance of Licences to Provide Bear Hunting Services will be allowed where areas have been licensed or authorized under agreement for the activity since January 1, 1992.

Any proposed new trails for the purposes of bear hunting are subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Please refer to subsection 6.3.1b – Trails for further information on the establishment and maintenance of new trails and subsection 6.5.5 – ATV and Snowmobile Use for further information on their usage.

6.4.5 Commercial food collection

There is currently no existing commercial food-harvesting venture within the conservation reserve. Any new ventures requiring permits from the Ministry of Natural Resources will be subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves).

6.4.6 Commercial non-timber forest products

Currently, there is no explicit policy direction towards the commercial harvesting of non-timber forest products. New ventures may be considered subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Such ventures should be discouraged within the conservation reserve wherever possible, as they do not necessarily coincide with the intent of protecting the area as a conservation reserve.

6.4.7 Outpost camps/main base lodges

There are currently no existing authorized outpost camps or main base lodges within the conservation reserve. New outpost camps and main base lodges may be considered through planning and will be subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). The form of land tenure for these new uses will remain as a land use permit or lease. Sale of Crown land for new outpost camps or main base lodges will not be permitted.

6.5 Non-commercial activities

6.5.1 Nature appreciation/low-impact recreation activities

Off-trail hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other non-motorized activities will be permitted within this conservation reserve. However, should the impact of these activities degrade the landscape, the Ministry of Natural Resources will re-evaluate these permitted uses and decide upon a new strategy for this site. New trails to support these activities may be considered. Please refer to subsection 6.3.1b - Trails for more details related to trail development.

6.5.2 Camping

There are no maintained campsites or campgrounds within this conservation reserve. Crown land camping policies apply, unless significant adverse effects on protected values necessitate further planning and management for this activity. Existing traditional campsites should be used to avoid disturbance of new areas within the conservation reserve.

6.5.3 Non-commercial consumptive resource use

Cutting of trees for non-commercial purposes may be authorized by the local Ministry of Natural Resources, subject to review and determination of the impact that such cutting would have on the values identified in section 5.0- State of the Resource. Issued permits are intended to cover fuelwood, dock stringers, and other occasional small-scale uses. Such permits are intended only for leaseholders, Land Use Permit holders, cottagers and other property owners within the conservation reserve who do not have road access to their property and who do not have an alternate wood source outside of the conservation reserve. Property owners adjacent to the conservation reserve will not be issued permits for areas within the protected area. No stakeholders eligible for non-commercial consumptive resource use permits currently exist within the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

Non-commercial harvesting of non-timber forest products such as berries and mushrooms can occur provided the values of the site, identified in section 5.0- State of the Resource, are not jeopardized.

6.5.4 Hunting and fishing

In conjunction with current hunting regulations (Wildlife Management Unit 42), hunting is permitted to continue within the conservation reserve. Please see subsection 6.5.5- ATV and Snowmobile Use on the direct retrieval of large game and to subsection 6.3.1b (Trails) for information on the construction of new trails or the maintenance of existing trails.

Recreational fishing is also permitted to continue in compliance with current fishing regulations.

6.5.5 ATV and snowmobile use

Please refer to subsection 6.3.1b - Trails for more information on trails. In general, off-trail use of ATVs and snowmobiles is not permitted; however, in some cases, off-trail use is permitted for licensed trappers to access their traplines, for licensed bait harvest operators to conduct bait harvest operations and for use in bear management areas (BMA's). Hunters are also allowed off-trail ATV and snowmobile use for the direct retrieval of large game. In all these cases, any formal intensive off-trail use is discouraged. Should the impact of off-trail ATV and snowmobile use degrade the landscape; the Ministry of Natural Resources will re-evaluate these permitted uses and determine a new strategy.

6.6 Resource management activities

Resource management activities refer to those tools used to protect and enhance the values of this conservation reserve. Some management activities may require the use of intrusive techniques. Under normal circumstances, some of these techniques would not be permitted to occur in the conservation reserve; however, if they are found to be necessary, they may be applied under controlled conditions, to achieve a desired result. Infrastructure such as roads, trails and buildings may need to be constructed to support activities such as prescribed burns, forest regeneration, wildfire control, and insect and disease control. Activities described in this section will be deemed acceptable if the ultimate outcome is in compliance with the management intent for this conservation reserve.

6.6.1 Insect and disease control

This conservation reserve will be maintained in as natural a state as possible. Insect and disease control measures should only be considered if the identified values of the conservation reserve or adjacent forest values on Crown land are significantly threatened. If such measures are proposed, they will be subject to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves).

6.6.2 Exotic and/or invasive species

The management intent of the conservation reserve is to maintain the site in as natural state as possible. The deliberate introduction of exotic and/or invasive species will not be permitted. If the key values of the site are threatened, new management strategies to control exotic/invasive species may be considered and will be subject to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves).

6.6.3 Species at Risk Management

Any species identified within the conservation reserve that is considered to be either endangered or threatened (as designated by either the national Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, COSEWIC, or the Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario, COSSARO) will be given protection under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act (1997, S.O. 1997, c.41), the Endangered Species Act (R.S.O 1990, c.E15) and/or the federal Species at Risk Act (June 2003). Recovery plans, consisting of both a recovery strategy and a recovery action plan, prepared for nationally endangered and threatened species under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk will be implemented within the conservation reserve if deemed necessary by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and/or the Government of Canada.

6.6.4 Fish and wildlife management

New fish and wildlife management activities (e.g., fish stocking, habitat enhancement/ rehabilitation, population control) may be considered but will be subject to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Such activities will also require the development of a separate fish/wildlife management plan. Specific management prescriptions, as outlined by a new approved fish/wildlife management plan, must be either referenced within this SCI or attached as an amendment to this document. Existing previously approved fish and wildlife management activities will be permitted to continue but may be subject to screening under the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D).

6.6.5 Vegetation management

New vegetation management activities (e.g., the restoration of natural environments) may be considered but will be subject to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Such activities may also require the development of a separate vegetation management plan. Specific management prescriptions, as outlined by the new management plan, must be either referenced within this SCI or attached as an amendment to this document.

6.6.6 Fire management

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

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

Opportunities for prescribed burning to achieve ecological or resource management objectives may be considered but will be subject to screening under the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves). Such activities may also require the development of a separate vegetation management plan developed in accordance with the Ministry of Natural Resources Prescribed Burn Planning Manual (OMNR 1997b).

6.6.7 Forest renewal

Forest renewal is an activity associated with commercial timber harvest and with vegetation restoration projects involving tree species. Such practices would only be considered if the area within the conservation reserve had been recently cut prior to becoming regulated or following approval of vegetation management activities as outlined in subsection 6.6.5-Vegetation Management.

Forest loss within the conservation reserve due to wind (i.e., blowdown), fire or insect damage will not be considered for forest renewal – such areas will be left to regenerate naturally. Should unauthorized forest harvest occur within the boundaries of the conservation reserve, forest renewal will be considered.

Any possible renewal project will be reviewed using the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and the Environmental Assessment Act (e.g., the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves) and would be carried out to replicate natural conditions as much as possible.

6.7 Research

Scientific research by qualified individuals or institutions is encouraged, especially if the research contributes to a better understanding of the natural and cultural values protected by this conservation reserve or if it advances the protection, planning and management of these values. The District Planner, Sudbury District should be contacted for information on research and/or monitoring opportunities within this conservation reserve. Proposals to conduct research should be directed to the Sudbury Area Supervisor, Sudbury District and will be subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) and relevant Ministry of Natural Resources' policies, procedures and conditions, as well as any applicable Environmental Assessment Act (R.S.O. 1990, Chapter E.18) requirements. Any site that is disturbed during research activities is to be rehabilitated as closely as possible to its original condition. Collecting may only be permitted as part of an authorized research project and may be subject to appropriate permits and conditions.

Existing research and monitoring activities currently occurring within the conservation reserve are permitted to continue, but may be subject to the Test of Compatibility (Appendix D) should detrimental impacts to the values protected by the conservation reserve be detected. No existing research activities have been identified within the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

7.0 Recommendations

It is recognized that not all features or uses occurring within the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve have been identified during the current planning process. This section outlines future activities, which might be conducted to ensure that features of the site are protected or to better develop our understanding of the natural features protected by this conservation reserve.

Table 3 highlights future needs and considerations for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

Table 3: Future needs and considerations for Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve.

8.0 Implementation, review and revisions

The Sudbury Area team will be responsible for implementing the management policies and guidelines for the Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve. The primary role of the Sudbury Area team will be to perform compliance monitoring and provide public information to ensure adherence to current policies and guidelines.

8.1 Monitoring

Periodic monitoring of human activities and/or their impacts within this conservation reserve will be conducted. The Sudbury Area Supervisor and the Sudbury District Enforcement Supervisor will oversee these activities.

Approved inventory, monitoring and/or assessment activities that are compatible with protection objectives are encouraged. Any area that is disturbed during such monitoring activities must be rehabilitated to restore the affected area as closely as possible to its original condition. If at any time human activities are deemed to be negatively impacting the protected features, the activities will be reviewed and measures taken to mitigate any disturbance.

8.2 Marketing

No active marketing of this conservation reserve is anticipated.

8.3 Review and revisions

The Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve SCI will be reviewed every five years by the District Planner, Sudbury District to confirm and update the information in this document.

Revisions to this document will be subject to requirements as specified in the Environmental Assessment Act (R.S.O. 1990, Chapter E.18). If changes in management direction are needed at any time, the significance of the changes will be evaluated. Minor amendments to the plan that do not alter the overall protection objectives may be considered and approved by the Area Supervisor without further public consultation. All minor amendments to the SCI will be documented in Appendix E. In assessing major amendments, 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 to management direction may be considered with public consultation. Major amendments will be recommended by the District Manager and approved by the Regional Director, and will follow the appropriate guidelines (OMNR 2001).

9.0 References

City of Greater Sudbury. Lake Water Quality: Long Lake [Accessed Sept 21, 2004]. Available online at: http://www.greatersudbury.ca

Cudmore, W., Copeland, C., and Longyear, S. 2004. Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve (C210) Natural Heritage Area - Life Science Checksheet. Unpublished Information. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

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

Easton, R.M., 1992. The Grenville Province and the Proterozoic History of Central and Southern Ontario; in Geology of Ontario, Ontario Geological Survey, Special Volume 4, Part 2, p. 714 - 904.

Hills, G. A. 1959. A Ready Reference for the Description of the Land of Ontario and its Productivity. Preliminary Report. Ontario Department of Lands and Forests. Maple. Ontario.

Gartner, J.F. 1978. Northern Ontario Engineering Geology Terrain Study. Data Base Map Espanola. Map 5002. Scale 1:100,000. Ontario Geological Survey.

Jackson, M. Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve (C210) Recreation Resource Inventory Report. Unpublished Information. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Kristjansson, R.J. 2004. Earth Science Inventory Checklist for C210 Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve. Unpublished Information. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation. 1997. Conserving a Future for Our Past: Archaeology Land Use Planning and Development in Ontario, Section 3.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1992. Ontario Provincial Parks: Planning and Management Policies, 1992 Update. Queen’s Printer for Ontario, Canada.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1997a. Conservation Reserves Policy PL 3.03.05.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1997b. Prescribed Burn Planning Manual. AFFMB Publication No. 313. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

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

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2000. Conservation Reserve Policy-As Amended by the Ontario Living Legacy Land Use Strategy. Unpublished document. September 2000.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2001a. Forest Information Manual. Queen’s Printer for Ontario: Toronto, Ontario.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2001b. Procedures for the Amendment of Ministry of Natural Resources Land Use Direction. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2002. Buildings for Bait Harvesting Management. Public Lands Act, PL 3.03.08.

Ontario Ministry Natural of Resources. 2003a. Direction for Commercial Resource Use Activities in Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves. June 2003.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2003b. A Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves. Queen’s Printer for Ontario, Ontario, Canada. 116 pp.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 2004. Crown Land Use Atlas. [Accessed: September 15, 2004] http://www.ontarioslivinglegacy.com/crownlanduseatlas/index.html.

Rowe, J.S. 1972. Forest regions of Canada. Dept. of Fisheries and the Environment. Canadian Forestry Service. Publication No. 1300. 172pp.

R.S.O. 1990, Chapter E.15. Endangered Species Act. [Accessed: September 1, 2004], http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/DBLaws/Statutes/English/90e15_e.htm.

R.S.O. 1990, Chapter E.18. Environmental Assessment Act. [Accessed: September 15, 2003] http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/DBLaws/Statutes/English/90e18_e.htm.

R.S.O. 1990, Chapter M.14. Mining Act. [Accessed: September 15, 2003] http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/DBLaws/Statutes/English/90m14_e.htm.

R.S.O. 1997, Chapter 41. Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. [Accessed: September 1, 2004]. http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/DBLaws/Statutes/English/90c41_e.htm.

Shaw, D. 1999. Reclamation Techniques at Sudbury, Canada. Restoration and Reclamation Review, Volume 4- Spring 1999: International Restoration Efforts.

Thompson, J. 2001. Northeast Region Guidelines on the Planning Process for Conservation Reserves: Statements of Conservation Interest and Resource Management Plan. Unpublished Information. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Thompson, J. and Noordhof, J. 2003. Edit Model for N.E. Region Life Science Checksheets. Internal Report. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Uhlig, P., A. Harris, G. Craig, C. Bowling, B. Chambers, B. Naylor and G. Beemer. 2001. Old Growth Forest Definitions for Ontario. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Queen’s Printer for Ontario, Toronto. ON. 27 p.

10.0 Appendices

Appendix A: Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve maps

Map 1: Recreational Values of Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

Enlarge map 1: Recreational Values of Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

Map 2: Landforms in Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

Enlarge map 2: Landforms in Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

Map 3: Forest Communities within Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

Enlarge map 3: Forest Communities within Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve

Map 4: Wetlands within Tilton Fcrest Conservation Reserve

Enlarge map 4: Wetlands within Tilton Fcrest Conservation Reserve

Appendix B: Tilton Forest Conservation Reserve photos

Photo 1: Aerial photo of large unnamed lake towards southwest.
(Photo taken by Barb Burkhardt, Aug.28, 2003)

Photo 2: View of large unnamed lake in northeast portion of conservation reserve.
(Photo taken by Joey Young, OMNR, July 30, 2004)

Photo 3: Transmission corridor from Lakes End Road to private land on Wolfe Lake.
(Photo taken by Joey Young, OMNR, Aug.5, 2004)

Photo 4: Aerial view of series of wetlands, northward towards Sudbury.
(Photo taken by Barb Burkhardt, OMNR, Aug. 28, 2003)

Photo 5: View across large wetland complex in central portion of site.
(Photo taken by Barb Burkhardt, OMNR, Aug. 28, 2003)

Appendix C: Summary of Permitted Uses

The following Policy Report was obtained from the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas website during completion of this SCI (OMNR 2004). Changes may have been made to this policy report since that time. For the most recent version of this policy report, please refer to the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas on the internet at /page/crown-land-use-policy-atlas or contact your local Ministry of Natural Resources office.

Crown Land Use Atlas - Policy Report

C210
Tilton Forest
Updated January 16, 2004

Identification:

ID: C210
Area name: Tilton Forest
Area (ha): 725
Designation: Conservation Reserve (Ontario’s Living Legacy)
District(s): Sudbury

Description:

Hardwood forests cover most of the low hills and rolling country of this site. Red maple, red oak and scattered red pine are the major tree species present. This conservation reserve is in Site District 5E-4.

Tilton Forest was regulated as a conservation reserve on December 7, 2002.

Land use intent:

The land use intent will be to protect the natural heritage values of this area.

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 conservation reserves, 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

Land and resource management activities

Science, education and heritage appreciation

Recreation activities and facilities

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

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

In addition to provincial and regional policies, the following local policies will apply to the management of the following (Lake Trout/Tourism) Lakes…

Source of direction:

Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999)
Conservation Reserves Policy (1997)

Explanation of edits:

Area calculation has been edited based on current mapping. Area calculations are preliminary until public consultation on boundaries has been completed and the area has been regulated.

Appendix D: Test of Compatibility

The Conservation Reserve policy provides broad direction with regard to the permitted uses. The policy provides only an indication of the variety of uses that will be considered acceptable in conservation reserves. Any new uses, and commercial activities associated with them, will be considered on a case by case basis, and, subject to the following test of compatibility. To ensure a standard screening process is followed, reviews of all current and new activities will be subject to the screening criteria as specified by the Environmental Assessment Act (R.S.O. 1900, Chapter E.18).

The following outlines the two steps involved in performing a Test of Compatibility. An assessment of current activities would only follow step two, which focuses on the impacts. An assessment of any new activity would consider the impact of the activity and its conformity to the SCI/RMP.

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

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

2. Impact Assessment: If the proposed use(s) pass test 1 it is important to determine their impact on the area before they are approved. This should include the following:
   • Impact on natural heritage values: "will the new use(s) impact any natural values in the area? If so how and to what degree? Is it tolerable?"
   • Impact on cultural values: "will the new use(s) impact an historical or archaeological values in the area?"
   • Impact on research activities: "will the new use(s) affect research activities in the area?"
   • Impact on current uses: "will the new use(s) have any negative impact on the array of current uses?"
   • Impact on area administration: "will the new use(s) increase administrative costs and/or complexity?" (For example, the cost of area monitoring, security and enforcement).
   • Impact on accommodating the use outside the conservation reserve: "Could the use(s) be accommodated as well or better outside the conservation reserve?"
   • Impact on socio-economics of the area: "will the new use(s) affect the community(ies) surrounding the area in a positive or negative way?" (For example, will the new use make an area less remote thereby affecting a local tourism industry that is dependent on the area’s remoteness for its appeal?"
   • Impact on area accessibility: "does the new use(s) give someone exclusive rights to the area or a portion of the area to the exclusion of other existing uses?"

Appendix E: Amendments to the SCI