Appendix D6 Proposed Aggregate Pits

Transcription

1 Northland Power Inc. - Kabinakagami River Project Environmental Report Appendix D6 Proposed Aggregate Pits H , Rev. 0 Hatch 2013/01

2 Prepared for: Hatch Environmental Prepared by: Brad Ekstrom R.P.F Date: August 17, 2012 Natural Environment Report for the Pelican Road Quarry

3 The Pelican Road Quarry is located approximately 10 km north of the First Nations community of Constance Lake on the east side of Rogers Road and south of the Pelican Road in Rogers Township. The Pelican Road Quarry is a proposed quarry to provide aggregate for Northland Power s proposed Hydro projects on the Kabinakagami River. The pit is located on the Hearst Forest in the MNR administration area of the Hearst District within the Northeast Region of Ontario. The proposed quarry is located at UTM co-ordinate Much of the area in the vicinity of the Pelican Road Quarry has been harvested over the last 50 years and the area where the proposed quarry is located was planted in The ELC classification of the area surrounding the pit is a B119 site type which is a Moist-Fine- Aspen Birch Hardwood. The proposed quarry area is covered with a mix of 8 foot tall black spruce, cedar and larch trees with a small pocket of jack pine trees and a small area of exposed bedrock outcrop. The area within the 120 metre buffer area around the proposed quarry is a mix of aspen, larch, black spruce and willows. There is a wetland area with a creek just beyond the 120 metre buffer that has been declared a cold water fisheries value by the local MNR. The reserve left following the harvest operations that occurred in 1998 is predominantly mature black spruce, approximately 17 metre in height and 120 years old This Natural Environment report will determine the presence of significant natural heritage features and fish habitat and ensure that necessary preventative mitigative or remedial actions are undertaken for their protection. a) Significant wetlands: The are no significant wetlands located either within the area of the propose quarry or the 120 metre buffer that has been applied to the area. b) Significant habitat of endangered and threatened species: Several site visits have been made to the site of this pit. Through consultation with local MNR staff potential endangered that might be found in the area are; Bald Eagle, Black Tern, Canada Warbler, Common Nighthawk, Olive sided flycatcher, Short-eared Owl, Yellow Rail, Woodland Caribou, Eastern Cougar and Wolverine. Short-eared Owl The Short-eared Owl is listed as special concern both Provincially and Nationally. They use open meadows and grasslands for nesting sites and hunting in open fields for small mammals, especially voles. Forest clearing to create farming opportunities probably benefitted this species. However the intensification of agricultural practices has made these nesting sites unsuitable. The current threat to the Short-eared Owl habitat is the loss of marshes. However, the practice of draining wetlands and marshes is not a practice that is carried out anywhere in the area of this pit. The Short Eared Owl is identified as a species that the Partners in Flight (Environment Canada, 2008) have set a population objective to increase the continental population. It is recognized that any increase in the local population would contribute to the continental population objectives. Aggregate extraction practices are not likely intense enough in the boreal forest to exclude the Short-eared Owl from the area. No evidence of Short-eared owl was seen during the field visits to the Pelican Road Quarry.

4 Black Tern The Black Tern is listed as a species of special concern Provincially. The Black Tern builds floating nests in marshes and wetlands. The main threat to the Black Tern is loss of nesting habitat due to loss and alteration of wetlands, water pollution and human interference with the nest (boat traffic swamping the floating nests). During the site inspections no evidence of black tern or nesting sites was observed. Common Nighthawk The Common Nighthawk (Nighthawk) is designated as special concern Provincially and Threatened Nationally. Nighthawks nest on the ground in harvested and burned over areas, openings in the forest and gravel lakeshores. The effects of fire suppression and reduced harvest levels and land use changes in the boreal forest may have contributed to a reduction in suitable nesting sites for Nighthawk. Common Nighthawk populations have decreased between first and second Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) in the area covered by the Ontario portion of North American Bird conservation Region 8. The Partners in Flight surmise that this is possibly due to a reduction in insect populations in the area. This reduction in insect populations could be due to climate change, the degradation of aquatic habitats or an increase in ultra violet radiation affecting the aquatic phase of some insects such as dragon flies. Aggregate extraction operations may create habitat and nesting sites for this species so operations at any other time of the year except spring and summer work should not negatively affect this species (Landriault and Mills, 2009 Page 19). Olive-sided Flycatcher The Olive-sided Flycatcher is designated as special concern provincially and threatened nationally. The Olive-sided Flycatcher preferred nesting sites are coniferous or mixed forest close to rivers and other wetlands. The Olive-sided Flycatcher typically nests in conifer tree species such as white and black spruce, jack pine and balsam fir. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is a species that uses openings in the forest to forage for flying insects, especially if there are snags and residual standing tall trees in which they can perch. The draft Stand and Site Guidelines include direction regarding the retention of wildlife trees that could be used as hunting perches by this species. It is unclear the reason for the decline in Olive-sided Flycatcher populations but it could be habitat loss in both breeding and wintering grounds as well as a decline in insect populations. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is listed as a species of concern in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. The population objective of the Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan is to bring the Olive-sided Flycatcher population back to the levels seen in the 1970 s and the distribution to the 1980 s

5 levels while the Partners in Flight objective is to see a 100% population increase on a continental basis. Yellow Rail The Yellow Rail is designated as a species of special concern both Nationally and Provincially. Yellow Rail are seldom seen and breeds and spends most it s time deep in the reeds surrounding marshes and shallow wetlands. Threats to the Yellow Rail are the draining of wetlands in southern Ontario. In the Hudson Bay lowlands they are experiencing habitat decline due to the expansion of Snow Goose populations which may be destroying the Yellow Rail s nesting habitat. Aggregate extraction activities in this pit are likely to have little effect on this species other than the movement of equipment or road construction activities in occupied wetlands. The draft Stand and Site Guide has guidelines for working in and around wetlands that should serve as adequate protection for this species. No evidence of Yellow Rail or their nesting sites was observed during the field visits made to this area. Wolverine Wolverine is on the endangered species list as threatened Provincially and special concern Nationally. Wolverine populations in the province appear to be concentrated in Northwestern Ontario in the area around Red Lake to Sioux Lookout and North to Fort Severn and across to Peawanuck (A.Magoun, 2004). Wolverine are mainly solitary and maintain large home ranges, 1450 km 2 for males and 525 km 2 for females (Magoun et.al., 2005). Very little is known about Wolverine populations and habitat requirements. In Ontario they are known to occupy both tundra and boreal forest habitat types. Contributing factors to there being few Wolverine is a combination of low reproductive rate and relatively large home range that lead to intrinsically low population densities as well as low population resilience. Although it is not legal to trap Wolverine, they are scavengers and occasionally they are accidentally caught by trappers focused on other species. This incidental trapping is a threat to the population given the species inherently low numbers. At this time with so little about Wolverine population dynamics known it cannot be determined if aggregate extraction operations in Northern Ontario have a positive or negative impact on Wolverine populations (Magoun et. al. 2005). Bald Eagle Bald Eagle is listed as Special Concern in both Northern and Southern Ontario and Not at Risk Nationally. In the Boreal Forest Bald Eagles typically make their nests which are huge stick platforms high in large trees, often in the forks of Trembling Aspen (populus tremuloides Moench) close to water.

6 Bald Eagle numbers began declining significantly in the 1960 s and 70 s when the use of pesticides such as DDT resulted in reproductive failures through thinning egg shells that would break during the incubating period of the eggs. With the restriction placed on the use of these types of pesticides Bald Eagle populations have begun to become healthier. Bald Eagle are still susceptible to illegal shooting, accidental trapping, poisoning and electrocution. Bald eagle is listed as a priority species in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. There are no Bald Eagle nesting sites documented in the MNR s NRVIS layer and no nesting sites were observed on or within 120m of the proposed pit during the field visits to this site. Canada Warbler The Canada Warbler is listed as a species of special concern Provincially and threatened Nationally. The Canada Warbler breeds only in North America and 80% of its breeding habitat is located within Canada. The Canada Warbler s range effectively covers the entire province of Ontario except the northernmost reaches of the Hudson Bay Lowlands. The Canada Warbler makes its nest either on or near the ground. Preferred forest cover is areas with dense shrub and understory vegetation to provide cover for their nest sites. Threats to Canada Warbler are largely believed to be fragmentation of their summer habitat as well as the winter habitat in South America, where deforestation is an ongoing problem. Another possible cause for the decline in the population is the decline in the population spruce budworm (choristoneura fumiferana, Clemens) which Canada Warbler show strong linkages to this food source i.e. when food supply declines (Sleep et. al. 2009), Canada Warbler population declines. The Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan s population objective for the Canada Warbler is to halt the current decline and maintain the population abundance and distribution level above current levels. The Partners in Flight population objective for this species is to increase the population by 50%. The Canada warbler is listed as threatened by COSEWIC. While the species has shown some level of decline in adjacent Bird Conservation Regions it appears to be stable in BCR 8. The BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan lists Canada warbler as a regional stewardship species and recommends that it be used as a coarse filter indicator by modeling its habitat over the long term. Canada warbler preferred habitat is immature and older intolerant hardwood and lowland conifer that is located on slopes near water with dense understory growth. It is unlikely that aggregate extraction activities in the Pelican Road Quarry will have any impact on Canada Warbler. No Canada Warbler or their nesting sites were observed during the field visits that were carried out on this site. Eastern Cougar The Eastern Cougar is listed as an Endangered Species Provincially. However at this time there is not enough data on Eastern Cougar to have them listed on the National endangered species list.

7 Eastern Cougar is the name that is used to describe the animals inhabiting the north eastern portion of North America. Cougars in Northern Ontario are of unknown origin but may have moved into the Northern portion of the province from western provinces or they may be remnants of the original population. Cougar in Southern Ontario are thought to be escaped pets. Cougar have very large ranges and are often found in forest setting where there are deer but they will also prey on a variety of smaller animals. Cougar in the vicinity of the Hearst Forest may be preying on woodland caribou. While there have been a number of cougar sightings over the years there has never been conclusive evidence i.e. scat or hair samples, recovered. No Cougar were observed during the field visits to the Pelican Road Quarry. Woodland Caribou The Woodland Caribou is designated as Threatened both Provincially and Nationally. Woodland Caribou in the Boreal Forest live in small herds and while are not migratory have extensive home ranges. Caribou habitat consists of a combination of mature, even aged forests composed mostly of spruce and jack pine with frequent out crops mixed with areas of lowland muskeg and swamp sites. Woodland Caribou are very sensitive to predation from wolves and other predators and for this reason exist in very low densities on the landscape. Because they are very susceptible to predation the Woodland Caribou is very sensitive to the creation of anthropogenic linear features such as roads, pipelines and hydro corridors that can be used as travel corridors by predators increasing the efficiency of their hunting. Because moose and deer occur on the landscape at higher densities, predators such as wolf and black bear can be attracted to areas with moose and deer where hunting is likely to be more productive. For this reason Woodland Caribou choose to seek out habitat conditions that are not desirable to moose and deer. Moose and deer browse on low woody shrubs and other plants that are associated with either newer disturbances or indicative of forest that is in decline and is becoming overmature. While there are Caribou that have been captured and radio-collared on the Hearst Forest there is no evidence that the collared animals use the land around the Pelican Road Quarry. During the completion of Phase II of the forest management plan for the Hearst Forest the planning team designated the area around the Pelican Road Quarry and all of the other pits proposed by Northland Power as Class Z lands in relation to Caribou habitat i.e. the land in this area is unlikely now and into future to provide quality Caribou habitat due to the nature of the forest in the area without extensive and unreasonable levels of silviculture work. c) Significant Areas of Natural Scientific Interest (ANSIs); The NRVIS layer for the Hearst Forest show no ANSIs in the area of the proposed pits or the 120 metre buffer zones accompanying the pits. d) Significant Wildlife Habitat; Following the field visits and following review of the MNR s NRVIS layer and using the MNRs Biodiversity and Species at Risk web sites it was determined

8

9 Qualifications - Forestry Technician / 2 year course / Sir Sandford Fleming College (Lindsay) - HBSc Forestry Degree / Lakehead University - Member Ontario Professional Foresters Association - ELC Calibration Plot training - Implication of Landforms and Soils on Silviculture Decision Making - Northeast Forest Ecosystem Classification Workshop - MNR bridge inspection training course - Aggregate pit training - Aboriginal Awareness Training - Forest Fire Protocol Training - Tree seedling handling course - A number of Forest Management Planning courses and workshops Experience Certified compliance inspector for 14 years. Including inspections of harvest area, access creation including culvert installation, aggregate pit inspections and renewal and maintenance activities on the Hearst Forest. SFL representative for compliance issues with MNR personnel. Planning and Silviculture Forester for Hearst Forest Management Inc. The SFL manager for the Hearst Forest. Plan Author for the Forest Management Plan for the Hearst Forest. Author of Annual Work Schedule for the Hearst Forest. Negotiate with local MNR biologist regarding measures to maintain habitat for indigenous species following harvest. Completion of PIC, HCVF and Gap Analysis for FSC Certification of the Hearst Forest Completion of Chain of Custody FSC documentation for Lecours Lumber Co. Limited. Facilitate and negotiate with local companies and First Nations trappers regarding harvesting operations on First Nations traplines. Managing Partner is Thunderhouse Forest Services since inception (1994)

10 References Environment Canada, 2008, Ontario Partners in Flight, Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan, Boreal Softwood Shield, North American Bird Conservation Range 8, Ministry of Natural Resources, Bird Studies Canada, Environment Canada. Version Final Draft for Approval. Landriault and Mills, Synthesis of forest bird habitat requirements with reference to forest management planning in Ontario. Magoun, A, Boreal Wolverine: A Focal Species for Land Use Planning in Ontario s Northern Boreal Forest. Magoun et. al Forest Management Considerations for Wolverine Populations in Areas of Timber Harvest in Ontario Sleep et al, Potential Role of Spruce Budworm in Range Wide Decline of Canada Warbler. The Journal of Wildlife Management. Volume 73 Issue 4. pp

11 Appendix A: Map of Proposed Pelican Quarry Location

12 p Legend Road 200 Topographic Contour (m) 200 Watercourse Potential Quarry Area 120 m from Potential Quarry Area Waterbody 200 Wetland Wooded Area Metres 1:5,000 Notes: 1. OBM and NRVIS data downloaded from LIO, April Produced by Hatch under licence from Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Copyright (c) Queens Printer Spatial referencing UTM NAD 83 Zone 16. Pelican Road Easting Northing !! Easting Northing ha! Easting Northing Easting ! Northing Figure 4.13 Northland Power Inc. Kabinakagami River Project Pelican Road Quarry Path: P:\NORTHLAND\338464\SPECIALIST_APPS\GIS\Test_Pits_RockQuarry.mxd

13 Appendix B: Pictures of proposed Pelican Quarry Site

14 Photo 1: Pelican Quarry facing Southwest Photo 2: Pelican Quarry facing South from road

15 Photo 3: Pelican Quarry facing west Photo 4: Pelican Quarry facing southeast

16 Prepared for: Hatch Environmental Prepared by: Brad Ekstrom R.P.F Date: August 17, 2012 Natural Environment Report for the Taylor s Pit

17 The Taylor s Pit is located approximately 10 km north of the First Nations community of Constance Lake on the east side of Rogers Road. The Taylor s Pit is an existing pit dating back prior to 1986 when the Forest Management Agreement for the Hearst Forest was signed. The pit is located on the Hearst Forest in the MNR administration area of the Hearst District within the Northeast Region of Ontario. The Taylor s Pit is an existing pit and is currently identified as ecosite U997 which is an Unclassified Commercial Site. The Taylor s Pit is located at UTM coordinate Much of the area in the vicinity of the Taylor s Pit has been harvested over the last 50 years. The ECL classification of the area surrounding the pit is a B101 site type which is a Fresh, Silty to Fine Loamy, Spruce-Fir. Swallow Lake is located to the east of the Taylor s Pit and is buffered from the existing pit by 40 to 50 metre mixed wood forest composed of black spruce, balsam fir, trembling aspen and white birch. Swallow Lake is part of the Hearst District s fish stocking program. This Natural Environment report will determine the presence of significant natural heritage features and fish habitat and ensure that necessary preventative, mitigative or remedial actions are undertaken for their protection. a) Significant wetlands: The Taylor s pit is flanked by Swallow Lake on the east side and a marshy wetland area on the west. The 120 metre buffer encompasses portions of both of these water bodies. While it is unlikely that either of these areas would be regionally or provincially significant wet land areas the question would still need to be asked. Through consultation with the local area biologist no wetland areas located on the Hearst Forest have ever been examined to determine their significance at this time. b) Significant habitat of endangered and threatened species: Several site visits have been made to the site of this pit. Through consultation with local MNR staff potential endangered that might be found in the area are; Bald Eagle, Black Tern, Canada Warbler, Common Nighthawk, Olive sided flycatcher, Short-eared Owl, Yellow Rail, Woodland Caribou, Eastern Cougar and Wolverine. Short-eared Owl The Short-eared Owl is listed as special concern both Provincially and Nationally. They use open meadows and grasslands for nesting sites and hunting in open fields for small mammals, especially voles. Forest clearing to create farming opportunities probably benefitted this species. However the intensification of agricultural practices has made these nesting sites unsuitable. The current threat to the Short-eared Owl habitat is the loss of marshes. However, the practice of draining wetlands and marshes is not a practice that is carried out anywhere in the area of this pit. The Short Eared Owl is identified as a species that the Partners in Flight have set a population objective to increase the continental population. It is recognized that any increase in the local population would contribute to the continental population objectives. Aggregate extraction practices are not likely intense enough in the boreal forest to exclude the Short-eared Owl from the area. No evidence of Short-eared owl was seen during the field visits to the Taylor s Pit.

18 Black Tern The Black Tern is listed as a species of special concern Provincially. The Black Tern builds floating nests in marshes and wetlands. The main threat to the Black Tern is loss of nesting habitat due to loss and alteration of wetlands, water pollution and human interference with the nest (boat traffic swamping the floating nests). During the site inspections no evidence of black tern or nesting sites was observed. Common Nighthawk The Common Nighthawk (Nighthawk) is designated as special concern Provincially and Threatened Nationally. Nighthawks nest on the ground in harvested and burned over areas, openings in the forest and gravel lakeshores. The effects of fire suppression and reduced harvest levels and land use changes in the boreal forest may have contributed to a reduction in suitable nesting sites for Nighthawk. Common Nighthawk populations have decreased between first and second Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) in the area covered by the Ontario portion of North American Bird conservation Region 8. The Partners in Flight surmise that this is possibly due to a reduction in insect populations in the area. This reduction in insect populations could be due to climate change, the degradation of aquatic habitats or an increase in ultra violet radiation affecting the aquatic phase of some insects such as dragon flies. Aggregate extraction operations may create habitat and nesting sites for this species so operations at any other time of the year except spring and summer work should not negatively affect this species (Landriault and Mills, 2009 Page 19). Olive-sided Flycatcher The Olive-sided Flycatcher is designated as special concern provincially and threatened nationally. The Olive-sided Flycatcher preferred nesting sites are coniferous or mixed forest close to rivers and other wetlands. The Olive-sided Flycatcher typically nests in conifer tree species such as white and black spruce, jack pine and balsam fir. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is a species that uses openings in the forest to forage for flying insects, especially if there are snags and residual standing tall trees in which they can perch. The draft Stand and Site Guidelines include direction regarding the retention of wildlife trees that could be used as hunting perches by this species. It is unclear the reason for the decline in Olive-sided Flycatcher populations but it could be habitat loss in both breeding and wintering grounds as well as a decline in insect populations. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is listed as a species of concern in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. The population objective of the Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan is to bring the Olive-sided Flycatcher population back to the levels seen in the 1970 s and the distribution to the 1980 s levels while the Partners in Flight objective is to see a 100% population increase on a continental basis.

19 Yellow Rail The Yellow Rail is designated as a species of special concern both Nationally and Provincially. Yellow Rail are seldom seen and breeds and spends most it s time deep in the reeds surrounding marshes and shallow wetlands. Threats to the Yellow Rail are the draining of wetlands in southern Ontario. In the Hudson Bay lowlands they are experiencing habitat decline due to the expansion of Snow Goose populations which may be destroying the Yellow Rail s nesting habitat. Aggregate extraction activities in this pit are likely to have little effect on this species other than the movement of equipment or road construction activities in occupied wetlands. The draft Stand and Site Guide has guidelines for working in and around wetlands that should serve as adequate protection for this species. No evidence of Yellow Rail or their nesting sites was observed during the field visits made to this area. Wolverine Wolverine is on the endangered species list as threatened Provincially and special concern Nationally. Wolverine populations in the province appear to be concentrated in Northwestern Ontario in the area around Red Lake to Sioux Lookout and North to Fort Severn and across to Peawanuck (A.Magoun, 2004). Wolverine are mainly solitary and maintain large home ranges, 1450 km 2 for males and 525 km 2 for females (Magoun et.al., 2005). Very little is known about Wolverine populations and habitat requirements. In Ontario they are known to occupy both tundra and boreal forest habitat types. Contributing factors to there being few Wolverine is a combination of low reproductive rate and relatively large home range that lead to intrinsically low population densities as well as low population resilience. Although it is not legal to trap Wolverine, they are scavengers and occasionally they are accidentally caught by trappers focused on other species. This incidental trapping is a threat to the population given the species inherently low numbers. At this time with so little about Wolverine population dynamics known it cannot be determined if aggregate extraction operations in Northern Ontario have a positive or negative impact on Wolverine populations (Magoun et. al. 2005). Bald Eagle Bald Eagle is listed as Special Concern in both Northern and Southern Ontario and Not at Risk Nationally. In the Boreal Forest Bald Eagles typically make their nests which are huge stick platforms high in large trees, often in the forks of Trembling Aspen (populus tremuloides Moench) close to water. Bald Eagle numbers began declining significantly in the 1960 s and 70 s when the use of pesticides such as DDT resulted in reproductive failures through thinning egg shells that would break during the incubating period of the eggs.

20 With the restriction placed on the use of these types of pesticides Bald Eagle populations have begun to become healthier. Bald Eagle are still susceptible to illegal shooting, accidental trapping, poisoning and electrocution. Bald eagle is listed as a priority species in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. There are no Bald Eagle nesting sites documented in the MNR s NRVIS layer and no nesting sites were observed on or within 120m of the proposed pit during the field visits to this site. Canada Warbler The Canada Warbler is listed as a species of special concern Provincially and threatened Nationally. The Canada Warbler breeds only in North America and 80% of its breeding habitat is located within Canada. The Canada Warbler s range effectively covers the entire province of Ontario except the northernmost reaches of the Hudson Bay Lowlands. The Canada Warbler makes its nest either on or near the ground. Preferred forest cover is areas with dense shrub and understory vegetation to provide cover for their nest sites. Threats to Canada Warbler are largely believed to be fragmentation of their summer habitat as well as the winter habitat in South America, where deforestation is an ongoing problem. Another possible cause for the decline in the population is the decline in the population spruce budworm (choristoneura fumiferana, Clemens) which Canada Warbler show strong linkages to this food source i.e. when food supply declines (Sleep et. al. 2009), Canada Warbler population declines. The Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan s population objective for the Canada Warbler is to halt the current decline and maintain the population abundance and distribution level above current levels. The Partners in Flight population objective for this species is to increase the population by 50%. The Canada warbler is listed as threatened by COSEWIC. While the species has shown some level of decline in adjacent Bird Conservation Regions it appears to be stable in BCR 8. The BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan lists Canada warbler as a regional stewardship species and recommends that it be used as a coarse filter indicator by modeling its habitat over the long term. Canada warbler preferred habitat is immature and older intolerant hardwood and lowland conifer that is located on slopes near water with dense understory growth. It is unlikely that aggregate extraction activities in the Taylor s Pit will have any impact on Canada Warbler. No Canada Warbler or their nesting sites were observed during the field visits that were carried out on this site. Eastern Cougar The Eastern Cougar is listed as an Endangered Species Provincially. However at this time there is not enough data on Eastern Cougar to have them listed on the National endangered species list. Eastern Cougar is the name that is used to describe the animals inhabiting the north eastern portion of North America. Cougars in Northern Ontario are of unknown origin but may have

21 moved into the Northern portion of the province from western provinces or they may be remnants of the original population. Cougar in Southern Ontario are thought to be escaped pets. Cougar have very large ranges and are often found in forest setting where there are deer but they will also prey on a variety of smaller animals. Cougar in the vicinity of the Hearst Forest may be preying on woodland caribou. While there have been a number of cougar sightings over the years there has never been conclusive evidence i.e. scat or hair samples, recovered. No Cougar were observed during the field visits to the Taylor s s Pit. Woodland Caribou The Woodland Caribou is designated as Threatened both Provincially and Nationally. Woodland Caribou in the Boreal Forest live in small herds and while are not migratory have extensive home ranges. Caribou habitat consists of a combination of mature, even aged forests composed mostly of spruce and jack pine with frequent out crops mixed with areas of lowland muskeg and swamp sites. Woodland Caribou are very sensitive to predation from wolves and other predators and for this reason exist in very low densities on the landscape. Because they are very susceptible to predation the Woodland Caribou is very sensitive to the creation of anthropogenic linear features such as roads, pipelines and hydro corridors that can be used as travel corridors by predators increasing the efficiency of their hunting. Because moose and deer occur on the landscape at higher densities, predators such as wolf and black bear can be attracted to areas with moose and deer where hunting is likely to be more productive. For this reason Woodland Caribou choose to seek out habitat conditions that are not desirable to moose and deer. Moose and deer browse on low woody shrubs and other plants that are associated with either newer disturbances or indicative of forest that is in decline and is becoming overmature. While there are Caribou that have been captured and radio-collared on the Hearst Forest there is no evidence that the collared animals use the land around the Taylor s Pit. During the completion of Phase II of the forest management plan for the Hearst Forest the planning team designated the area around the Taylor s Pit and all of the other pits proposed by Northland Power as Class Z lands in relation to Caribou habitat i.e. the land in this area is unlikely now and into future to provide quality Caribou habitat due to the nature of the forest in the area without extensive and unreasonable levels of silviculture work. c) Significant Areas of Natural Scientific Interest (ANSIs); The NRVIS layer for the Hearst Forest show no ANSIs in the area of the proposed pits or the 120 metre buffer zones accompanying the pits. d) Significant Wildlife Habitat; Following the field visits and following review of the MNR s NRVIS layer and using the MNRs Biodiversity and Species at Risk web sites it was determined that there is no significant wildlife habitat within the 120 metre buffer of the Taylor s Pit. e) Fish Habitat; Swallow Lake which is to the east of the Taylor s Pit is one of the trout lakes that the local MNR district office stocks on a regular basis. Swallow Lake was last stocked with

22

23 Completion of Chain of Custody FSC documentation for Lecours Lumber Co. Limited. Facilitate and negotiate with local companies and First Nations trappers regarding harvesting operations on First Nations traplines. Managing Partner is Thunderhouse Forest Services since inception (1994)

24 References Environment Canada, 2008, Ontario Partners in Flight, Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan, Boreal Softwood Shield, North American Bird Conservation Range 8, Ministry of Natural Resources, Bird Studies Canada, Environment Canada. Version Final Draft for Approval. Landriault and Mills, Synthesis of forest bird habitat requirements with reference to forest management planning in Ontario. Magoun, A, Boreal Wolverine: A Focal Species for Land Use Planning in Ontario s Northern Boreal Forest. Magoun et. al Forest Management Considerations for Wolverine Populations in Areas of Timber Harvest in Ontario MNR, Hearst District Fish Stocking Program Pamphlet. MNR Hearst District. Sleep et al, Potential Role of Spruce Budworm in Range Wide Decline of Canada Warbler. The Journal of Wildlife Management. Volume 73 Issue 4. pp

25 Appendix A: Map of Taylor s Pit Site

26 p Existing Pit Access Road Easting ! Northing ! Easting Northing ha Swallow Lake 230 Rogers Road Easting ! Northing ! Easting Northing Legend 230 Road Topographic Contour (m) Watercourse Existing Pit Face Potential Pit Area 120 m from Potential Pit Area Waterbody Wetland Wooded Area Metres 1:5,000 Notes: 1. OBM and NRVIS data downloaded from LIO, April Produced by Hatch under licence from Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Copyright (c) Queens Printer Spatial referencing UTM NAD 83 Zone 16. Figure 4.15 Northland Power Inc. Kabinakagami River Project Taylors Pit 240 Path: P:\NORTHLAND\338464\SPECIALIST_APPS\GIS\Test_Pits_TaylorsPit.mxd

27 Appendix B: Pictures of Taylors Pit

28 Photo 1: Picture of Taylor s Pit Facing North Photo 2: Taylor s Pit Facing East

29 Photo 3: Taylor s Pit Facing South Photo 4: Taylor s Pit Facing South

30 Photo 5: Taylor s Pit Facing North

31 Prepared for: Hatch Environmental Prepared by: Brad Ekstrom R.P.F Date: August 17, 2012 Natural Environment Report for the T3-A Aggregate Pit

32 The T3-A Aggregate Pit is located approximately 10 km north of the First Nations community of Constance Lake on the east side of Rogers Road and south of the Pelican Road in Rogers Township. The T3-A Aggregate Pit is a proposed aggregate pit to provide aggregate for Northland Power s proposed Hydro projects on the Kabinakagami River and is located very close to Northland s proposed Neeshah hydro site. The pit is located on the Hearst Forest in the MNR administration area of the Hearst District within the Northeast Region of Ontario. The proposed quarry is located at UTM co-ordinate Much of the area in the vicinity of the T3-A Aggregate Pit has been harvested over the last 50 years and the area where the proposed quarry is located was planted in The ELC classification of the area surrounding the pit is a B119 site type which is a Moist-Fine- Aspen Birch Hardwood. The proposed aggregate pit area as well as the 120 metre buffer zone was harvested in and site prepared and replanted using a mix of black and white spruce in the spring of 2009 The reserve left following the harvest operations along the Kabinakagami River is a mix of black spruce, balsam fir, white spruce, trembling aspen and white cedar. The trees in the reserve are approximately 145 years old and 17 metres tall. This Natural Environment report will determine the presence of significant natural heritage features and fish habitat and ensure that necessary preventative mitigative or remedial actions are undertaken for their protection. a) Significant wetlands: There are no significant wetlands located either within the area of the propose quarry or the 120 metre buffer that has been applied to the area. b) Significant habitat of endangered and threatened species: Several site visits have been made to the site of this pit. Through consultation with local MNR staff potential endangered that might be found in the area are; Bald Eagle, Black Tern, Canada Warbler, Common Nighthawk, Olive sided flycatcher, Short-eared Owl, Yellow Rail, Woodland Caribou, Eastern Cougar and Wolverine. Short-eared Owl The Short-eared Owl is listed as special concern both Provincially and Nationally. They use open meadows and grasslands for nesting sites and hunting in open fields for small mammals, especially voles. Forest clearing to create farming opportunities probably benefitted this species. However the intensification of agricultural practices has made these nesting sites unsuitable. The current threat to the Short-eared Owl habitat is the loss of marshes. However, the practice of draining wetlands and marshes is not a practice that is carried out anywhere in the area of this pit. The Short Eared Owl is identified as a species that the Partners in Flight have set a population objective to increase the continental population. It is recognized that any increase in the local population would contribute to the continental population objectives. Aggregate extraction practices are not likely intense enough in the boreal forest to exclude the Short-eared Owl from the area. No evidence of Short-eared owl was seen during the field visits to the T3-A Aggregate Pit.

33 Black Tern The Black Tern is listed as a species of special concern Provincially. The Black Tern builds floating nests in marshes and wetlands. The main threat to the Black Tern is loss of nesting habitat due to loss and alteration of wetlands, water pollution and human interference with the nest (boat traffic swamping the floating nests). During the site inspections no evidence of black tern or nesting sites was observed. Common Nighthawk The Common Nighthawk (Nighthawk) is designated as special concern Provincially and Threatened Nationally. Nighthawks nest on the ground in harvested and burned over areas, openings in the forest and gravel lakeshores. The effects of fire suppression and reduced harvest levels and land use changes in the boreal forest may have contributed to a reduction in suitable nesting sites for Nighthawk. Common Nighthawk populations have decreased between first and second Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) in the area covered by the Ontario portion of North American Bird conservation Region 8. The Partners in Flight surmise that this is possibly due to a reduction in insect populations in the area. This reduction in insect populations could be due to climate change, the degradation of aquatic habitats or an increase in ultra violet radiation affecting the aquatic phase of some insects such as dragon flies. Aggregate extraction operations may create habitat and nesting sites for this species so operations at any other time of the year except spring and summer work should not negatively affect this species (Landriault and Mills, 2009 Page 19). Olive-sided Flycatcher The Olive-sided Flycatcher is designated as special concern provincially and threatened nationally. The Olive-sided Flycatcher preferred nesting sites are coniferous or mixed forest close to rivers and other wetlands. The Olive-sided Flycatcher typically nests in conifer tree species such as white and black spruce, jack pine and balsam fir. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is a species that uses openings in the forest to forage for flying insects, especially if there are snags and residual standing tall trees in which they can perch. The draft Stand and Site Guidelines include direction regarding the retention of wildlife trees that could be used as hunting perches by this species. It is unclear the reason for the decline in Olive-sided Flycatcher populations but it could be habitat loss in both breeding and wintering grounds as well as a decline in insect populations. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is listed as a species of concern in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. The population objective of the Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan is to bring the Olive-sided Flycatcher population back to the levels seen in the 1970 s and the distribution to the 1980 s levels while the Partners in Flight objective is to see a 100% population increase on a continental basis.

34 Yellow Rail The Yellow Rail is designated as a species of special concern both Nationally and Provincially. Yellow Rail are seldom seen and breeds and spends most it s time deep in the reeds surrounding marshes and shallow wetlands. Threats to the Yellow Rail are the draining of wetlands in southern Ontario. In the Hudson Bay lowlands they are experiencing habitat decline due to the expansion of Snow Goose populations which may be destroying the Yellow Rail s nesting habitat. Aggregate extraction activities in this pit are likely to have little effect on this species other than the movement of equipment or road construction activities in occupied wetlands. The draft Stand and Site Guide has guidelines for working in and around wetlands that should serve as adequate protection for this species. No evidence of Yellow Rail or their nesting sites was observed during the field visits made to this area. Wolverine Wolverine is on the endangered species list as threatened Provincially and special concern Nationally. Wolverine populations in the province appear to be concentrated in Northwestern Ontario in the area around Red Lake to Sioux Lookout and North to Fort Severn and across to Peawanuck (A.Magoun, 2004). Wolverine are mainly solitary and maintain large home ranges, 1450 km 2 for males and 525 km 2 for females (Magoun et.al., 2005). Very little is known about Wolverine populations and habitat requirements. In Ontario they are known to occupy both tundra and boreal forest habitat types. Contributing factors to there being few Wolverine is a combination of low reproductive rate and relatively large home range that lead to intrinsically low population densities as well as low population resilience. Although it is not legal to trap Wolverine, they are scavengers and occasionally they are accidentally caught by trappers focused on other species. This incidental trapping is a threat to the population given the species inherently low numbers. At this time with so little about Wolverine population dynamics known it cannot be determined if aggregate extraction operations in Northern Ontario have a positive or negative impact on Wolverine populations (Magoun et. al. 2005). Bald Eagle Bald Eagle is listed as Special Concern in both Northern and Southern Ontario and Not at Risk Nationally. In the Boreal Forest Bald Eagles typically make their nests which are huge stick platforms high in large trees, often in the forks of Trembling Aspen (populus tremuloides Moench) close to water. Bald Eagle numbers began declining significantly in the 1960 s and 70 s when the use of pesticides such as DDT resulted in reproductive failures through thinning egg shells that would break during the incubating period of the eggs.

35 With the restriction placed on the use of these types of pesticides Bald Eagle populations have begun to become healthier. Bald Eagle are still susceptible to illegal shooting, accidental trapping, poisoning and electrocution. Bald eagle is listed as a priority species in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. There are no Bald Eagle nesting sites documented in the MNR s NRVIS layer and no nesting sites were observed on or within 120m of the proposed pit during the field visits to this site. Canada Warbler The Canada Warbler is listed as a species of special concern Provincially and threatened Nationally. The Canada Warbler breeds only in North America and 80% of its breeding habitat is located within Canada. The Canada Warbler s range effectively covers the entire province of Ontario except the northernmost reaches of the Hudson Bay Lowlands. The Canada Warbler makes its nest either on or near the ground. Preferred forest cover is areas with dense shrub and understory vegetation to provide cover for their nest sites. Threats to Canada Warbler are largely believed to be fragmentation of their summer habitat as well as the winter habitat in South America, where deforestation is an ongoing problem. Another possible cause for the decline in the population is the decline in the population spruce budworm (choristoneura fumiferana, Clemens) which Canada Warbler show strong linkages to this food source i.e. when food supply declines (Sleep et. al. 2009), Canada Warbler population declines. The Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan s population objective for the Canada Warbler is to halt the current decline and maintain the population abundance and distribution level above current levels. The Partners in Flight population objective for this species is to increase the population by 50%. The Canada warbler is listed as threatened by COSEWIC. While the species has shown some level of decline in adjacent Bird Conservation Regions it appears to be stable in BCR 8. The BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan lists Canada warbler as a regional stewardship species and recommends that it be used as a coarse filter indicator by modeling its habitat over the long term. Canada warbler preferred habitat is immature and older intolerant hardwood and lowland conifer that is located on slopes near water with dense understory growth. It is unlikely that aggregate extraction activities in the T3-A Aggregate Pit will have any impact on Canada Warbler. No Canada Warbler or their nesting sites were observed during the field visits that were carried out on this site. Eastern Cougar The Eastern Cougar is listed as an Endangered Species Provincially. However at this time there is not enough data on Eastern Cougar to have them listed on the National endangered species list. Eastern Cougar is the name that is used to describe the animals inhabiting the north eastern portion of North America. Cougars in Northern Ontario are of unknown origin but may have

36 moved into the Northern portion of the province from western provinces or they may be remnants of the original population. Cougar in Southern Ontario are thought to be escaped pets. Cougar have very large ranges and are often found in forest setting where there are deer but they will also prey on a variety of smaller animals. Cougar in the vicinity of the Hearst Forest may be preying on woodland caribou. While there have been a number of cougar sightings over the years there has never been conclusive evidence i.e. scat or hair samples, recovered. No Cougar were observed during the field visits to the T3-A Aggregate Pit. Woodland Caribou The Woodland Caribou is designated as Threatened both Provincially and Nationally. Woodland Caribou in the Boreal Forest live in small herds and while are not migratory have extensive home ranges. Caribou habitat consists of a combination of mature, even aged forests composed mostly of spruce and jack pine with frequent out crops mixed with areas of lowland muskeg and swamp sites. Woodland Caribou are very sensitive to predation from wolves and other predators and for this reason exist in very low densities on the landscape. Because they are very susceptible to predation the Woodland Caribou is very sensitive to the creation of anthropogenic linear features such as roads, pipelines and hydro corridors that can be used as travel corridors by predators increasing the efficiency of their hunting. Because moose and deer occur on the landscape at higher densities, predators such as wolf and black bear can be attracted to areas with moose and deer where hunting is likely to be more productive. For this reason Woodland Caribou choose to seek out habitat conditions that are not desirable to moose and deer. Moose and deer browse on low woody shrubs and other plants that are associated with either newer disturbances or indicative of forest that is in decline and is becoming overmature. While there are Caribou that have been captured and radio-collared on the Hearst Forest there is no evidence that the collared animals use the land around the T3-A Aggregate Pit. During the completion of Phase II of the forest management plan for the Hearst Forest the planning team designated the area around the T3-A Aggregate Pit and all of the other pits proposed by Northland Power as Class Z lands in relation to Caribou habitat i.e. the land in this area is unlikely now and into future to provide quality Caribou habitat due to the nature of the forest in the area without extensive and unreasonable levels of silviculture work. c) Significant Areas of Natural Scientific Interest (ANSIs); The NRVIS layer for the Hearst Forest show no ANSIs in the area of the proposed pits or the 120 metre buffer zones accompanying the pits. d) Significant Wildlife Habitat; Following the field visits and following review of the MNR s NRVIS layer and using the MNRs Biodiversity and Species at Risk web sites it was determined that there is no significant wildlife habitat within the 120 metre buffer of the T3-A Aggregate Pit. e) Fish Habitat; There is no significant fish habitat located within the area of the proposed T3- A Aggregate Pit or the 120 metre buffer that surrounds the quarry.

37

38 References Environment Canada, 2008, Ontario Partners in Flight, Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan, Boreal Softwood Shield, North American Bird Conservation Range 8, Ministry of Natural Resources, Bird Studies Canada, Environment Canada. Version Final Draft for Approval. Landriault and Mills, Synthesis of forest bird habitat requirements with reference to forest management planning in Ontario. Magoun, A, Boreal Wolverine: A Focal Species for Land Use Planning in Ontario s Northern Boreal Forest. Magoun et. al Forest Management Considerations for Wolverine Populations in Areas of Timber Harvest in Ontario Sleep et al, Potential Role of Spruce Budworm in Range Wide Decline of Canada Warbler. The Journal of Wildlife Management. Volume 73 Issue 4. pp

39 Appendix A: Map of Proposed T3-A Aggregate Pit

40 p Legend Road Topographic Contour (m) Watercourse Potential Pit Area 120 m from Potential Pit Area Wetland Metres 1:5,000 Notes: 1. OBM and NRVIS data downloaded from LIO, April Produced by Hatch under licence from Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Copyright (c) Queens Printer Spatial referencing UTM NAD 83 Zone Easting Northing ! T3-A Easting Northing ! 2.9 ha Easting ! Northing ! Easting Northing Site 3 - Neeshah Figure 4.20 Northland Power Inc. 210 Kabinakagami River Project Aggregate Pit - T3-A Path: P:\NORTHLAND\338464\SPECIALIST_APPS\GIS\Test_Pits_Site3_T3A.mxd

41 Appendix B: Picture of proposed T3-A Aggregate Pit

42 Photo 1: T3-A Aggregate Pit Facing Northwest Photo 2: T3-A Aggegate Pit Facing Northeast

43 Photo 3: T3-A Aggregate Pit Facing West Photo 4: T3-A Aggregate Pit Facing North

44

45 Prepared for: Hatch Environmental Prepared by: Brad Ekstrom R.P.F Date: August 17, 2012 Natural Environment Report for the T4-A Aggregate Pit

46 The T4-A Aggregate Pit is located approximately 10 km north of the First Nations community of Constance Lake on the east side of Rogers Road and south of the Pelican Road in Rogers Township. The T4-A Aggregate Pit is a proposed aggregate pit to provide aggregate for Northland Power s proposed Hydro projects on the Kabinakagami River and is located very close to Northland s proposed Peeshoo hydro site. The pit is located on the Hearst Forest in the MNR administration area of the Hearst District within the Northeast Region of Ontario. The proposed quarry is located at UTM co-ordinate Much of the area in the vicinity of the T4-A Aggregate Pit has been harvested over the last 50 years and the area where the proposed quarry is located was planted in The ELC classification of the area surrounding the pit is a B119 site type which is a Moist-Fine- Aspen Birch Hardwood. The proposed aggregate pit area as well as the 120 metre buffer zone was harvested in and left for natural regeneration. The reserve left following the harvest operations along the Kabinakagami River is a mix of black spruce, balsam fir, white spruce, trembling aspen and white cedar. The trees in the reserve are approximately 145 years old and 17 metres tall. This Natural Environment report will determine the presence of significant natural heritage features and fish habitat and ensure that necessary preventative mitigative or remedial actions are undertaken for their protection. a) Significant wetlands: There are no significant wetlands located either within the area of the propose quarry or the 120 metre buffer that has been applied to the area. b) Significant habitat of endangered and threatened species: Several site visits have been made to the site of this pit. Through consultation with local MNR staff potential endangered that might be found in the area are; Bald Eagle, Black Tern, Canada Warbler, Common Nighthawk, Olive sided flycatcher, Short-eared Owl, Yellow Rail, Woodland Caribou, Eastern Cougar and Wolverine. Short-eared Owl The Short-eared Owl is listed as special concern both Provincially and Nationally. They use open meadows and grasslands for nesting sites and hunting in open fields for small mammals, especially voles. Forest clearing to create farming opportunities probably benefitted this species. However the intensification of agricultural practices has made these nesting sites unsuitable. The current threat to the Short-eared Owl habitat is the loss of marshes. However, the practice of draining wetlands and marshes is not a practice that is carried out anywhere in the area of this pit. The Short Eared Owl is identified as a species that the Partners in Flight have set a population objective to increase the continental population. It is recognized that any increase in the local population would contribute to the continental population objectives. Aggregate extraction practices are not likely intense enough in the boreal forest to exclude the Short-eared Owl from the area. No evidence of Short-eared owl was seen during the field visits to the T4-A Aggregate Pit.

47 Black Tern The Black Tern is listed as a species of special concern Provincially. The Black Tern builds floating nests in marshes and wetlands. The main threat to the Black Tern is loss of nesting habitat due to loss and alteration of wetlands, water pollution and human interference with the nest (boat traffic swamping the floating nests). During the site inspections no evidence of black tern or nesting sites was observed. Common Nighthawk The Common Nighthawk (Nighthawk) is designated as special concern Provincially and Threatened Nationally. Nighthawks nest on the ground in harvested and burned over areas, openings in the forest and gravel lakeshores. The effects of fire suppression and reduced harvest levels and land use changes in the boreal forest may have contributed to a reduction in suitable nesting sites for Nighthawk. Common Nighthawk populations have decreased between first and second Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) in the area covered by the Ontario portion of North American Bird conservation Region 8. The Partners in Flight surmise that this is possibly due to a reduction in insect populations in the area. This reduction in insect populations could be due to climate change, the degradation of aquatic habitats or an increase in ultra violet radiation affecting the aquatic phase of some insects such as dragon flies. Aggregate extraction operations may create habitat and nesting sites for this species so operations at any other time of the year except spring and summer work should not negatively affect this species (Landriault and Mills, 2009 Page 19). Olive-sided Flycatcher The Olive-sided Flycatcher is designated as special concern provincially and threatened nationally. The Olive-sided Flycatcher preferred nesting sites are coniferous or mixed forest close to rivers and other wetlands. The Olive-sided Flycatcher typically nests in conifer tree species such as white and black spruce, jack pine and balsam fir. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is a species that uses openings in the forest to forage for flying insects, especially if there are snags and residual standing tall trees in which they can perch. The draft Stand and Site Guidelines include direction regarding the retention of wildlife trees that could be used as hunting perches by this species. It is unclear the reason for the decline in Olive-sided Flycatcher populations but it could be habitat loss in both breeding and wintering grounds as well as a decline in insect populations. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is listed as a species of concern in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. The population objective of the Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan is to bring the Olive-sided Flycatcher population back to the levels seen in the 1970 s and the distribution to the 1980 s levels while the Partners in Flight objective is to see a 100% population increase on a continental basis.

48 Yellow Rail The Yellow Rail is designated as a species of special concern both Nationally and Provincially. Yellow Rail are seldom seen and breeds and spends most it s time deep in the reeds surrounding marshes and shallow wetlands. Threats to the Yellow Rail are the draining of wetlands in southern Ontario. In the Hudson Bay lowlands they are experiencing habitat decline due to the expansion of Snow Goose populations which may be destroying the Yellow Rail s nesting habitat. Aggregate extraction activities in this pit are likely to have little effect on this species other than the movement of equipment or road construction activities in occupied wetlands. The draft Stand and Site Guide has guidelines for working in and around wetlands that should serve as adequate protection for this species. No evidence of Yellow Rail or their nesting sites was observed during the field visits made to this area. Wolverine Wolverine is on the endangered species list as threatened Provincially and special concern Nationally. Wolverine populations in the province appear to be concentrated in Northwestern Ontario in the area around Red Lake to Sioux Lookout and North to Fort Severn and across to Peawanuck (A.Magoun, 2004). Wolverine are mainly solitary and maintain large home ranges, 1450 km 2 for males and 525 km 2 for females (Magoun et.al., 2005). Very little is known about Wolverine populations and habitat requirements. In Ontario they are known to occupy both tundra and boreal forest habitat types. Contributing factors to there being few Wolverine is a combination of low reproductive rate and relatively large home range that lead to intrinsically low population densities as well as low population resilience. Although it is not legal to trap Wolverine, they are scavengers and occasionally they are accidentally caught by trappers focused on other species. This incidental trapping is a threat to the population given the species inherently low numbers. At this time with so little about Wolverine population dynamics known it cannot be determined if aggregate extraction operations in Northern Ontario have a positive or negative impact on Wolverine populations (Magoun et. al. 2005). Bald Eagle Bald Eagle is listed as Special Concern in both Northern and Southern Ontario and Not at Risk Nationally. In the Boreal Forest Bald Eagles typically make their nests which are huge stick platforms high in large trees, often in the forks of Trembling Aspen (populus tremuloides Moench) close to water. Bald Eagle numbers began declining significantly in the 1960 s and 70 s when the use of pesticides such as DDT resulted in reproductive failures through thinning egg shells that would break during the incubating period of the eggs.

49 With the restriction placed on the use of these types of pesticides Bald Eagle populations have begun to become healthier. Bald Eagle are still susceptible to illegal shooting, accidental trapping, poisoning and electrocution. Bald eagle is listed as a priority species in the BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan. There are no Bald Eagle nesting sites documented in the MNR s NRVIS layer and no nesting sites were observed on or within 120 m of the proposed pit during the field visits to this site. Canada Warbler The Canada Warbler is listed as a species of special concern Provincially and threatened Nationally. The Canada Warbler breeds only in North America and 80% of its breeding habitat is located within Canada. The Canada Warbler s range effectively covers the entire province of Ontario except the northernmost reaches of the Hudson Bay Lowlands. The Canada Warbler makes its nest either on or near the ground. Preferred forest cover is areas with dense shrub and understory vegetation to provide cover for their nest sites. Threats to Canada Warbler are largely believed to be fragmentation of their summer habitat as well as the winter habitat in South America, where deforestation is an ongoing problem. Another possible cause for the decline in the population is the decline in the population spruce budworm (choristoneura fumiferana, Clemens) which Canada Warbler show strong linkages to this food source i.e. when food supply declines (Sleep et. al. 2009), Canada Warbler population declines. The Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan s population objective for the Canada Warbler is to halt the current decline and maintain the population abundance and distribution level above current levels. The Partners in Flight population objective for this species is to increase the population by 50%. The Canada warbler is listed as threatened by COSEWIC. While the species has shown some level of decline in adjacent Bird Conservation Regions it appears to be stable in BCR 8. The BCR 8 Landbird Conservation Plan lists Canada warbler as a regional stewardship species and recommends that it be used as a coarse filter indicator by modeling its habitat over the long term. Canada warbler preferred habitat is immature and older intolerant hardwood and lowland conifer that is located on slopes near water with dense understory growth. It is unlikely that aggregate extraction activities in the T4-A Aggregate Pit will have any impact on Canada Warbler. No Canada Warbler or their nesting sites were observed during the field visits that were carried out on this site. Eastern Cougar The Eastern Cougar is listed as an Endangered Species Provincially. However at this time there is not enough data on Eastern Cougar to have them listed on the National endangered species list. Eastern Cougar is the name that is used to describe the animals inhabiting the north eastern portion of North America. Cougars in Northern Ontario are of unknown origin but may have

50 moved into the Northern portion of the province from western provinces or they may be remnants of the original population. Cougar in Southern Ontario are thought to be escaped pets. Cougar have very large ranges and are often found in forest setting where there are deer but they will also prey on a variety of smaller animals. Cougar in the vicinity of the Hearst Forest may be preying on woodland caribou. While there have been a number of cougar sightings over the years there has never been conclusive evidence i.e. scat or hair samples, recovered. No Cougar were observed during the field visits to the T4-A Aggregate Pit. Woodland Caribou The Woodland Caribou is designated as Threatened both Provincially and Nationally. Woodland Caribou in the Boreal Forest live in small herds and while are not migratory have extensive home ranges. Caribou habitat consists of a combination of mature, even aged forests composed mostly of spruce and jack pine with frequent out crops mixed with areas of lowland muskeg and swamp sites. Woodland Caribou are very sensitive to predation from wolves and other predators and for this reason exist in very low densities on the landscape. Because they are very susceptible to predation the Woodland Caribou is very sensitive to the creation of anthropogenic linear features such as roads, pipelines and hydro corridors that can be used as travel corridors by predators increasing the efficiency of their hunting. Because moose and deer occur on the landscape at higher densities, predators such as wolf and black bear can be attracted to areas with moose and deer where hunting is likely to be more productive. For this reason Woodland Caribou choose to seek out habitat conditions that are not desirable to moose and deer. Moose and deer browse on low woody shrubs and other plants that are associated with either newer disturbances or indicative of forest that is in decline and is becoming overmature. While there are Caribou that have been captured and radio-collared on the Hearst Forest there is no evidence that the collared animals use the land around the T4-A Aggregate Pit. During the completion of Phase II of the forest management plan for the Hearst Forest the planning team designated the area around the T4-A Aggregate Pit and all of the other pits proposed by Northland Power as Class Z lands in relation to Caribou habitat i.e. the land in this area is unlikely now and into future to provide quality Caribou habitat due to the nature of the forest in the area without extensive and unreasonable levels of silviculture work. c) Significant Areas of Natural Scientific Interest (ANSIs); The NRVIS layer for the Hearst Forest show no ANSIs in the area of the proposed pits or the 120 metre buffer zones accompanying the pits. d) Significant Wildlife Habitat; Following the field visits and following review of the MNR s NRVIS layer and using the MNRs Biodiversity and Species at Risk web sites it was determined that there is no significant wildlife habitat within the 120 metre buffer of the T4-A Aggregate Pit. e) Fish Habitat; There is no significant fish habitat located within the area of the proposed T4-A Aggregate Pit or the 120 metre buffer that surrounds the quarry.

51

52 References Environment Canada, 2008, Ontario Partners in Flight, Ontario Landbird Conservation Plan, Boreal Softwood Shield, North American Bird Conservation Range 8, Ministry of Natural Resources, Bird Studies Canada, Environment Canada. Version Final Draft for Approval. Landriault and Mills, Synthesis of forest bird habitat requirements with reference to forest management planning in Ontario. Magoun, A, Boreal Wolverine: A Focal Species for Land Use Planning in Ontario s Northern Boreal Forest. Magoun et. al Forest Management Considerations for Wolverine Populations in Areas of Timber Harvest in Ontario Sleep et al, Potential Role of Spruce Budworm in Range Wide Decline of Canada Warbler. The Journal of Wildlife Management. Volume 73 Issue 4. pp

53 Appendix A: Map of Proposed T4-A Aggregate Pit

54 p 190 Legend Road Site 4 - Peeshoo Topographic Contour (m) Watercourse Potential Pit Area 120 m from Potential Pit Area Wetland Metres 1:5,000 Notes: 1. OBM and NRVIS data downloaded from LIO, April Produced by Hatch under licence from Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Copyright (c) Queens Printer Spatial referencing UTM NAD 83 Zone 16. Easting Northing ! Easting ! Northing ha Easting ! Northing T4-A 200! Easting Northing Figure 4.21 Northland Power Inc. Kabinakagami River Project Aggregate Pit - T4-A Path: P:\NORTHLAND\338464\SPECIALIST_APPS\GIS\Test_Pits_Site4_T4A.mxd

55 Appendix B: Pictures of Proposed T4-A Aggregate Pit

56 Photo 1: T4-A Aggregate Pit Site Facing Northeast Photo 2: T4-A Aggregate Pit Site Facing Southeast

57 Photo 3: T4-A Aggregate Pit facing Southeast Photo 4: T4-A Aggregate Pit facing Northeast