1. OTTAWA FORESTS AND GREENSPACE ADVISORY COMMITTEE –

2006 ANNUAL REPORT, 2007 WORK PLAN AND REVISED TERMS OF REFERENCE

COMITÉ CONSULTATIF SUR LES FORÊTS ET LES ESPACES VERTS D’OTTAWA – RAPPORT ANNUEL DE 2006, PLAN DE TRAVAIL 2007, ET MANDAT RÉVISÉ

Committee recommendationS

That Council:

a) Receive the 2006 Annual Report of the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee as detailed in Attachment 1;

b) Approve the objectives contained in the 2007 workplan, as detailed in Attachment 2; and

c) Approve the revised Terms of Reference, as detailed in Attachment 3.

RecommandationS du Comité

Que le Conseil :

a) Reçoive le Rapport annuel de 2006 du Comité consultatif sur les forêts et espaces verts d’Ottawa, tel que décrit à la pièce jointe no 1;

b) Approuve les objectifs qui sont présentés dans le plan de travail 2007, tel que décrit à la pièce jointe no 2 ; et

c) Approuve le mandat révisé, tel que décrit a la pièce jointe n⁰3.

Documentation

1. Chair’s report, Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee dated
25 April 2007 (ACS2007-CCV-OFG-0001).

2. Extract of Draft Minutes, 22 May 2007.

Report to/Rapport au:

Planning and Environment Committee

Comité de l’urbanisme et de l’environnement

and Council/et au Conseil

25 April 2007 / le 25 avril 2007

Submitted by/Soumise par: Chair/présidente Iola Price

Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee/

Comité consultatif sur les forêts et les espaces verts d’Ottawa

Contact/Personne-ressource: Brenda Emond

Committee Coordinator/coordonnatrice du comité

580-2424, ext/poste 21801 brenda.emond@ottawa.ca

Ref N°: ACS2007-CCV-OFG-0001

SUBJECT: OTTAWA FORESTS AND GREENSPACE ADVISORY COMMITTEE – 2006 ANNUAL REPORT, 2007 WORK PLAN AND REVISED TERMS OF REFERENCE

OBJET: COMITÉ CONSULTATIF SUR LES FORÊTS ET LES ESPACES VERTS D’OTTAWA – RAPPORT ANNUEL DE 2006, PLAN DE TRAVAIL 2007, ET MANDAT RÉVISÉ

REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee recommend that the Planning and Environment Committee recommend Council:

a) Receive the 2006 Annual Report of the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee as detailed in Attachment 1;

b) Approve the objectives contained in the 2007 workplan, as detailed in Attachment 2; and

c) Approve the revised Terms of Reference, as detailed in Attachment 3.

RECOMMANDATIONS DU RAPPORT

Que le Comité consultatif sur les forêts et les espaces verts d’Ottawa recommande au Comité de l’urbanisme et de l’environnement de recommander au Conseil :

a) de recevoir le Rapport annuel de 2006 du Comité consultatif sur les forêts et espaces verts d’Ottawa, tel que décrit à la pièce jointe no 1;

b) d’approuver les objectifs qui sont présentés dans le plan de travail 2007, tel que décrit à la pièce jointe no 2 ; et

c) approuve le mandat révisé, tel que décrit a la pièce jointe n⁰3.

BACKGROUND

City Council, 6 December 2006, reconfirmed its governance structure. This included the advisory committees, and the requirement for each to complete a workplan outlining proposed projects and activities for the upcoming year. The workplan is to identify each and every activity the Committee plans to undertake in the upcoming year, whether they have a budgetary impact or not. The item should be identified with a brief description of the project or activity.

The Lead Department Representatives are to provide the Committee with information on the departmental workplan and priorities, where the workplans of the Committees tie into that workplan, and where the Committee can assist the Department. The Lead Department Representative will also advise on what staff and/or financial resources are available as part of departmental priorities.

There was no funding approved for the advisory committee 2007 workplans.

DISCUSSION

At its meetings of 22 January and 23 April 2007, the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee approved its 2006 annual report and 2007 work plan.

The mandate of the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee is to help safeguard the environment of the City through the use of trees, forests and greenspace. The complete revised Terms of Reference can be found at Document 3 of this report.

CONSULTATION

The following departments were consulted and following comments were received:

Planning,Transit and the Environment:

The Department continues to work closely with the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee and benefited from their help and constructive advice in 2006 on policy initiatives such as the Greenspace Master Plan and various development proposals and community design plans. The work program proposed for 2007 reflects several priority projects for the Department including the Official Plan review and staff can support the work plan with respect to the projects identified under the jursidiction of Planning, Transit and the Environment.

Public Works and Services - Surface Operations

The Department works closely with the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee in a shared goal to effectively manage the City's trees and forests.

The Department supports the objectives of the Committee’s workplan, which includes several initiatives such as community outreach and awareness of urban and rural forestry issues, that the Forestry Services Division will also be pursuing in 2007.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Document 1 – 2006 Annual Report of the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee

Document 2 – Proposed 2007 Workplan of the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee

Document 3– Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee Terms of Reference

DISPOSITION

City Clerks Branch staff will forward the recommendations approved by the Planning and Environment Committee to City Council for ratification.

Document 1

Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee

2006 Annual Report

Mandate, Introduction, Objective, Results

The Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee (OFGAC) provides advice and guidance to Ottawa City Council on trees, greenspaces, open spaces and wetlands to help safeguard the environment of the city and retain the green characteristics for which the city is renowned.

OFGAC provides:

Input into plans, strategies, policies, programs and budgets related to greenspace preservation, biodiversity and the management of urban and rural forests including remediation and new forest development;

recommendations to the city on how to meet its greenspace, biodiversity and forest-related objectives as outlined in the Official Plan and other planning documents; and

public awareness of the role of greenspace, wetlands and forests in protecting and enhancing quality of life.

In 2006, OFGAC continued to work to have its mandated provision of advice to Council on the importance of trees, forests, greenspace and wetlands lead to a new, changed way of thinking about planning and development that will conserve these, our greatest natural assets. Providing a balanced viewpoint between retention of greenspace and development becomes increasing essential as our city grows To fulfill this goal, OFGAC has focused its work in four areas (see Appendix 1 for an abbreviated workplan):

Policy and Planning Initiatives

OFGAC has worked intensively with the city on the development of the Greenspace Master Plan and the implementing Official Plan Amendment (Strategies for Ottawa’s Urban Greenspaces) and recommended their acceptance to Council. Work on the Forest Strategy and Biodiversity Strategy has been suspended until 2007 due to lack of staff resources for these two vital components of the Official Plan. As well, the draft Good Forestry Practices in Sensitive Natural Areas bylaw, originally deferred at Council in October 2005, has moved forward with participation of OFGAC and will go back to Standing Committees in early 2007 with OFGAC’s support. Together, these documents will provide the strategic framework for the preservation of tree and forest and greenspace cover to improve air quality and meet municipal Kyoto targets, and enhance the visual, social and ecological environment of the City.

OFGAC provided input to Community Design Plans for South Barrhaven, East Urban Phase 2, the South Nepean Town Centre and the Terms of Reference for the CDP for Rockcliffe Airbase. The Committee participated in the development of the bylaw for the Protection and Maintenance of Trees and Forests on Municipal Properties and recommended its passage to the Planning & Environment and Agriculture & Rural Affairs Standing Committees (passed by Council and in force as of September 2006). OFGAC also provided comment to staff on the Trees and Forest Maintenance Strategy report and the Trees and Forest Maintenance Program and Quality Standards. OFGAC supported the inclusion of these programs in the LRFP for funding starting in 2008.

Members continued to participate in the Public Consultation Group for the N/S LRT and the Public Advisory Group for the E/W LRT studies and made a presentation to Corporate Services arguing for the retention of the Walkley Road Service Yard. OFGAC also supported the acceptance of the Urban Natural Areas Environmental Evaluation Addendum Report at PEC. Other major initiatives on which OFGAC provided comment were the Slater Street Escarpment plan, and Urban Design Framework (guidelines for big box stores, parking lots etc.), Community Indicators, Density Initiatives and the proposed Bill 51.

Emerging Issues and Requested Advice Initiatives

OFGAC was part of a major undertaking by the City in regard to the Goulbourn Wetlands, making two presentations to ARAC on the Wetlands workplan and its recommendations and by participating in an extensive series of meetings over the summer in an attempt to resolve the issues. OFGAC’s concerns that the compromise reached (to halt Official Plan designation of Provincially Significant Wetlands) resulted in a Standing Committee statement that this course of action would not be extended to other areas of the City, an important clarification which will help to protect these remaining vital natural areas which are continuously under threat.

OFGAC provided comments on 56 development applications noting how the proposed development would impact our forests and greenspaces and advocating the planting of native trees and shrubs where appropriate. The Committee continued its involvement in the design of the proposed Berrigan/Greenbank Transitway and Park and Ride facility supporting the retention of a maximum number of nationally endangered Butternut trees, as well as Black Walnut, Red Oak and Black Cherry and drawing the City’s attention to construction activities that were damaging trees not destined to be removed.

OFGAC’s successful effort to have the four wooded lots on Ethier St. in Orleans retained in City ownership resulted in two outcomes: the re-evaluation of the entire wooded area and ravine and its designation as Urban Natural Area No. 191 (rated Moderate); and, an agreement to add OFGAC to the list of reviewers commenting on proposed disposal of City property. OFGAC provided comment on approximately 70 proposed sales of city-owned land. The files have not progressed to the state where the outcomes are known, but in 10 cases, OFGAC recommended either retention of ecologically important land or the setting of conditions on the sale (to retain trees).

As a result of one proposed land sale review, OFGAC may provide assistance to the City’s Affordable Housing group on how to integrate trees into the overall design for a group home. In October, OFGAC was made aware of the proposed disposal of a road allowance leading to the Rideau River and intervened at CSED to note the disconnect between a policy adopted the previous week by Council requiring retention of city-owned waterfront access and the proposal to sell this particular road allowance. CSED then recommended and Council subsequently agreed to retain the Rideau River road allowance at Armstrong Road.

OFGAC also supported two important land acquisitions: the land swap that led to the City acquiring the two Nepean Woodlots (Urban Natural Areas No. 60 and 61) and the purchase of a valuable wetland and adjacent forest on Fernbank Road in Stittsville.

OFGAC appeared before the Committee of the Whole with its perspective on funding priorities for the 2006 Capital and Operating Budget, presenting the case for increased funding in some cases and maintenance of funding for forestry and environmental management programs.

OFGAC continued its work on pocket parks by conducting a small public attitude survey during Wildlife Week and by providing advice to Carleton University students on a socio-economic study of the value of pocket parks in Somerset Ward.

Outreach Initiatives

OFGAC’s Web site < www.ottawaforests.ca > continually updated by our volunteer Webmaster, continues to provide information about Ottawa’s forests and greenspaces and OFGAC’s activities. It has proven to be a vital connection to the public. In 2006, approximately 59,400 requests for pages were received and 7.4 GB of information were transferred. The Marlborough Forest page was especially popular, receiving 666 hits in November.

The Native Trees and Shrubs Database has been completed and a link to it placed on the website in December. Designed to serve as a guide to encourage the planting of native species, citizens will be able to retrieve a complete write-up on 133 native trees, shrubs and vines, or search for information on salt tolerance, light requirements (sun or shade), water requirement and size (height and/or width) at maturity. In its first month, it received 2,221 hits.

Public interest in Ottawa’s urban and rural forests remained high in 2006. Thirty-eight people sent comments, requests for information or complaints about treatment of trees to the OFGAC website (the emails are forwarded to the OFGAC Chair who forwards them to the appropriate person in the City or OFGAC for action). Questions ranged from “is Manitoba Maple a native species in the Ottawa area and is it invasive” (answers No and Yes), questions about ownership and management of trees planted on lot lines between two private properties, to “How can I control the invasive buckthorn” and “What caused those black spots on Norway Maple leaves (Tar Spot fungus)”.

OFGAC initiated a series of Walks in the Woods that has proven to be very popular with Ottawa residents. Two-hour walks in the McCarthy Woods, Marlborough Forest, the Arboretum/Preston Street, and Pine Grove Woods attracted a total of 171 participants. Guest tour leaders included Seaton Findlay, author of Capital Woodlands; Erwin Dreessen, Poet’s Pathway; Ken Farr, author of The Forests of Canada; Craig Huff, City Forester; Shaun Thompson of the Ministry of Natural Resources; Dan Baker, Fiddlehead Forestry; and, Astrid Nielsen, Dendron Resource Surveys.

An OFGAC member’s personal attendance at the Ontario Urban Forest Council meeting in Toronto led to his appointment as a member of the OUFC Advisory Board. OFGAC has met with the Glebe Community Association’s Environmental Committee to discuss a possible pilot project on heritage trees in their area.

OFGAC established contacts with and respond to queries from the media, namely the Ottawa Citizen, Ottawa Sun, Orleans Star, CFRA, Radio Canada TV, and gave a number of radio, television or print interviews on the importance of trees and greenspace, notable/heritage trees, trees and development issues plus the Forest Walks.

OFGAC was invited to participate in the annual Christmas Forestry Seminar and presented a talk on its history, role, and involvement in urban forestry in Ottawa. At Councillor Harder’s invitation, OFGAC brought its public information display to her annual Ward meeting with constituents and we also attended and spoke at one Member of Parliament’s open house on urban environmental and forestry-related issues.

Management Initiatives

The Chair, Vice-Chair and several members attended meetings with city staff and EAC to discuss how to improve procedures relating to the review of development applications. OFGAC also provided advice to the City Clerk’s office on proposed revisions to the bylaw governing the proceedings of its Advisory Committees and also commented on revisions to the Advisory Committee Appointment Policy, Recruitment Strategy and timetable and the bylaw update and participated actively in the Chairs and Vice-Chairs meeting with City staff.

OFGAC has recently gone through a visioning exercise to evaluate our first five years and to ensure that we are “on message” for the upcoming year. This additional commitment by members to the Committee is an example of the Committee’s determination to set relevant, trackable short and long term objectives which address the evolving needs of Council and the changing face of the landscape.

A: Policy and Planning: Corporate Initiatives	B: Emerging Issues and Requested Advice	C: Outreach	D: Management
A1 Greenspace Master Plan	B1 Development Activities B1.1 Review Development Applications (Zoning Changes, OP Amendments) B1.2 City Capital Works (incl. Transitway) Impact B1.3 Surplus City Land Disposal	C1 Communications C1.1 Media outreach and publicity C1.2 OFGAC Website C1.3 Community Outreach and Awareness	D1 Committee Management; Activities to Run the Committee D1.1 Training for members
A2 Forest Strategy	B2 Presentations to PEC, ARAC, CSED and others as appropriate	C2 Networks C2.1 See list in longer version C2.2 Rural Summit	D2 Governance Report review
A3 Special Planning Studies incl. Subwatershed Studies A3.1 Follow-up and Monitoring Implementation Strategies A3.1.1 UNAEES A3.1.2 Riverside South CDP A3.1.3 East Urban CDP Phase 1 A3.1.4 Ottawa Design Study A3.1.5 N-S LRT A3.2 Ongoing Studies A3.2.1 E-W LRT A3.2.2 Rockcliffe Airbase A3.2.3 South Barrhaven	B3 Inventories B3.1 Notable Trees B3.2 CITYGreen™ Forest Cover Evaluation	C3 Database of Native Trees and Shrubs	D3 Spatial evaluation of OFGAC activities
A4 Plans and Standards A4.1 Maintenance Plans for Community Forests A4.1.1 Torbolton A4.1.2 Marlborough (incl. Long Swamp, Corkery) A4.1.3 Cumberland A4.1.4 Carp Hills A4.2 Maintenance Standards for Trees and Community Forests	B4 Requested Advice B4.1 Southern Corridor B4.2 Pocket Parks	C4 Exotic Pest Management (including invasive plants and insects)	D4 Committee Member Recruitment for 2007
A5 Bylaws A5.1 Good Forestry Practices in Sensitive Natural Areas A5.2 Municipal Trees and Forests Protection A5.3 Comprehensive Zoning	B5 Wetlands and Natural Drainage B5.1 Wetlands B5.2 Natural Drainage and Ditching
A6 Capital Standards A6.1 Road design guidelines (incl. streetscaping) A6.2 Transitway Design A6.3 Cycling Plan A6.4 Strategic Lighting Plan A6.5 Pedestrian Plan A6.6 Stormwater Management Planning Guidelines	B6 Council Performance Indicators B6.1 Follow-up to EAC-OFGAC Evaluation of Environmental Impact of 2004 Council Decisions B6.2 Community Impact Indicators
A7 Land Acquisition Through Municipal Act A7.1 Ethier St wooded lots	B7 Input to City Budgets B7.1 Consideration of OFGAC priorities for Budget 2007
A8 Land Trust	B8 International Society of Arboriculture
A9 Air Quality and Climate Change Strategy follow-up including Adaptation Strategy
A10 Biodiversity Strategy

OFGAC 2006 Workplan Report

A: Policy and planning

A1 Greenspace Master Plan

Objective

Advice to P&EC and city staff during the development of this plan in accordance with time lines and opportunities provided for public consultation

Report or presentation to Council on completion of the plan

Results

OFGAC commented on all versions of the draft and in spite of the change to consider only the urban area, recommended its approval at PEC in June with the proviso that work begin on the rural GMP and that a land acquistion strategy be initiated.

A2 Forest Strategy

Objective

Advice to P&EC and city staff during the development of this strategy in accordance with time lines and opportunities provided for public consultation

Report or presentation to Council on completion of the strategy

Results

Staff has presented two drafts. OFGAC commented on both drafts and gave input. The Strategy has been put on hold until 2007.

A3 Special Planning Studies including Community Design Plans

A3.1 Follow-up and Monitoring Implementation Strategies

A3.1.1 Urban Natural Areas Environmental Evaluation Study (UNAEES) Implementation

Objective

To provide advice to Planning and Environment Committee on the results of the UNAEES and propose future directions and activities

Results

Review of staff report and support at PEC June 27 for the UNAEES Addendum Report. (The Urban Natural Features Strategy due to be brought forward in July to PEC has been postponed until 2007; when it is available, it will be reviewed by OFGAC).

A3.1.2 Riverside South Community Design Plan Follow-up

Objective

Implementation of the Riverside South Community Design Plan follows principles in the CDP

Retention of significant trees and forests and best use of greenspace in this community

Results

Monitored and completed development reviews for different phases within Riverside South. Contacted the Riverside South Community Association to share information on the natural features inventory OFGAC conducted earlier.

Schedule presentation in 2006-2007 to the residents of the community. The preservation of natural features is uncertain and needs to be pursued in 2007 and throughout the development period.

A3.1.3 East Urban CDP Phase I Follow-Up

Objective

Implementation of the East Urban Community Design Plan follows principles in the CDP

Retention of significant trees and forests and best use of greenspace in this community

Results

Comments provided to staff and presentation made to PEC on Mer Bleue CDP.

A3.1.4 Ottawa Design Study Follow Up

Objective

Advice to Councillors and city staff on the Ottawa Design Study

Results

Participated in Slater Street Escarpment workshop and reviews. Participated in sessions reviewing Urban Design Framework guidelines for big box stores, parking lots, development along traditional and arterial mainstreets, drive through facilities, gas stations. Attendance at the public consultations on Density Initiatives resulted in the addition of parks and greenspace as two of the amenities that a developer may provide in exchange for increased height or density in the urban area.

A3.1.5 North-South Light Rail

Objective

Preservation of greenspace and trees and an environmental perspective as staff report is reviewed by Council

Results

Actively participated in the Provincially-mandated Public Working Group for the purpose of selecting the location for a maintenance and storage rail yard. Attended 8 meetings and reviewed numerous documents and studies. Made a presentation to the Joint Meeting of Transportation and Corporate Services & Economic Development Committees, opposing the City’s proposed site for the NS LRT Maintenance and Storage Yard. OFGAC Recommendation not accepted.

A3.2 Ongoing Studies including Community Design Plans

A3.2.1 East-West Light Rail

Objective

Provide OFGAC perspective through Public Advisory Committee participation

Results

Public Consultation group got as far as determining what type of LRT will be used. Progress has been slow. EISs have to be done and presented to both Federal and Provincial levels of Government for approval. Postponed until Council decides what to do with LRT.

A3.2.2 Rockcliffe Airbase Redevelopment/CDP

Objective

Provide OFGAC perspective to Public Advisory Committee

Results

Attended meetings of coalition of neighbourhood groups, meeting with Canada Lands Company and two CLC Open Houses; provided comments to CLC on draft 1 of CDP (contributed to coalition comments); member of PAC and TAC and attended first meetings of these groups in November. Greenspace and tree preservation has been accepted as a major design component and objective by CLC.

A3.2.3 South Barrhaven

Objective

Provide OFGAC perspective to Public Advisory Committee

Results

A3.2.3.1 South Barrhaven CDP

Reviewed the proposed concept plans for the future development of Barrhaven South and met with City Staff with their concerns. A formal response was presented to the planner and included in the submission to PEC. The Report on Proposed Design Guidelines was also reviewed and comments submitted to the planner. The identification of natural features and their preservation remains an issue to be pursued in 2007.

A3.2.3.2 Southwest Transitway Extension Environmental Assessment

OFGAC members met with city staff and determined that there are no tree/forest issues.

A3.2.3.3 Jock River Subwatershed Study Phase 1

The Jock River Reach 1 Subwatershed Study – Draft Final Report (3 volumes) was reviewed and comments formerly submitted to City Staff promoting the preservation of riparian vegetation, significant greenspaces and blue-green linkages.

A3.2.3.4 Greenbank Class Environmental Assessment

Under review.

A3.2.3.5 South Nepean Town Centre

Community Design Plan was reviewed and OFGAC submitted comments to the planner.

A3.2.3.6 and A3.2.3.7 Berrigan Road Park and Ride and Transit Station

Responded to Eastern Chapter of the Society of Nut Growers regarding the preservation of an existing Butternut and Black Walnut Grove situated in the middle of the route for the planned Transitway Extension. OFGAC met with the City’s Project Engineer, the landscape architect and project consultant and presented an inventory of nut trees on the site recommending that most of the Butternut trees be preserved. The recommendation has been accepted and the final landscaping details and a “nut theme” are planned for 2007. OFGAC met on site with City Staff and Consultants and provided recommendations to improve construction conditions to conserve the trees.

A3.3 East Urban CDP Phase II (Gloucester side)

Objective

Provide OFGAC perspective to Public Advisory Committee

Results

Provided comments on the Mer Bleu Community Design Plan to planner and PEC.

A4 Plans and Standards for Forests and Trees

A4.1 Maintenance Plans for Trees and Community Forests

Objective

Advice to City during development or updating of community forest master plans

Establish network of stakeholders

A4.1.1 Torbolton Forest

Results

Met with staff responsible for forest management regarding residents concerns about thinning program. The Torbolton Forest Advisory Committee has started a community program to collect seed from oaks to encourage re-seeding with native hardwoods.

A4.1.2 Marlborough

Results

Participated in Marlborough Forest Advisory Committee meetings and hosted a Walk in the Forest as part of the Outreach Program.

A4.1.3 Cumberland

Results

OFGAC received a presentation on the use of the forest by a trail riding association and endorsed their proposal.

A4.1.4 Carp Hills/South March

Results

Staff have placed the update of the Management Plan on their 2007 Workplan with implementation scheduled for 2008. OFGAC will participate.

A4.2 Maintenance Standards for Trees and Community Forests

Objective

Standards of care for trees, forests and greenspace that are appropriate for Ottawa

Results

Comments were provided on the following: Trees and Forest Maintenance Strategy Report, Trees and Forest Maintenance Program and Quality Standards. The Strategy was presented at the August 28 OFGAC Meeting and OFGAC Supported the Standards at PEC and ARAC (passed by these 2 committees and Council) and staff will propose these programs for funding in 2008.

A5 Bylaws

A5.1 Good Forestry Practices in Sensitive Natural Areas Bylaw

Objective

Passage of the bylaw in 2006

Results

OFGAC and staff have met all conditions for passage. OFGAC has met with senior staff members and Councillors to urge passage of the by-law. OFGAC has offered to develop information for a draft staff report for use by Standing Committees and Council. Submission of bylaw to Council delayed by 2006 election.

A5.2 Municipal Trees and Forests Protection

Objective

Passage of the bylaw in 2006

Results

Reviewed 2^nd draft of bylaw and supported its passage at PEC 13 June. Passed at Council in July and is in force as of September.

A5.3 Comprehensive Zoning

Objective

Protection of greenspace for conservation and passive use recognized in bylaw

Results

By-law draft received, the format is not user friendly and so has not been reviewed in detail.

A6 Capital Standards

Objective

Standards documents and plans reflect protection of trees, forests and greenspace philosophy and practice

Results

A6.1 Road design guidelines (incl. streetscaping)

Participated in study group on Slater Street Escarpment.

A6.2 Transitway Design

See A3.2.3.7 report on Berrigan Transit Station.

A6.3 Strategic Lighting Plan

Presentation from staff in September; OFGAC member appointed to review Strategy when presented in 2007.

A6.4 Pedestrian Plan (no further staff action)

A6.5 Stormwater Management Planning Guidelines (no activities)

A7 Land Acquisition Through the Municipal Act

Objective

Purchase of appropriate land using either the Special Services Levy or Local Improvement Charge (as described in the Ontario Municipal Act) for the acquisition of parks and greenspace

A7.1 Ethier St. Wooded Lots

Results

Consultations with Councillor Monette on the potential to use this provision to fund the retention of four wooded lots on Ethier St., Orleans. CSED recommendation and Council decision was to retain the lots without using the special municipal levy.

A8 Land Trust

Objective

Promote idea of a land trust

Results

No activities in 2006.

A9 Air Quality and Climate Change Adaptation Strategy

Objective

OFGAC Views are incorporated in the draft Air Quality and Climate Change Adaptation Strategy

Results

Draft document being prepared by City staff for circulation in 2007.

A10 Biodiversity Strategy

Objective

OFGAC participates in the development of this strategy

Results

In a presentation to Corporate Services, OFGAC supported the development of a Biodiversity Strategy after the Forest Strategy is completed in 2007. However, the project has received special funding via EAC and will start in 2007 with OFGAC and the Conservation Authorities as partners.

B: Emerging Issues and Requested advice

B1 Development Activities

B1.1 Review Development Applications (OP Amendments , Zoning Changes, Subdivision and Site Plan Proposals)

Objective

Advise city planners preparing reports to Director of Planning on development proposals or Council on Official Plan Amendment proposals or zoning changes.

Provide an OFGAC perspective (relating to potential impact on trees, forests, and greenspace) to Council, city planners and Real Property and Assets Management (RPAM) on proposals to develop, sell or change the use of land in Ottawa

Results

Two training sessions on how to conduct development review held with a resulting increase in quality of reviews and pertinence of remarks. 114 development proposals were received and OFGAC provided comments on 56 of them. Development Reviews of the Chapman Mills and Fernbank areas resulted in OFGAC recommending the preservation via purchase of two woodlots and a wetland.

Reviews in other fast growing areas such as Riverside South, South Pointe, Barrhaven South, Orleans, Navan and Mer Bleue focused on infill and raw land development where there were concerns on the part of residents and/or the potential to lose significant trees, hedgerows and woodlots.

B1.2 City Capital Works

Objective

City capital projects have minimal impact on trees, greenspace and wetlands

Results

No paper received from City in 2006.

B1.3 Disposal of City Surplus Lands

Objective

Lands in municipal ownership with forest, greenspace or wetlands value are retained by the city in their natural state.

Results

Developed a template to complete for standardized OFGAC review. 70 disposals were reviewed by OFGAC between February and December; comments provided to RPAM and Councillors.

In about 10 cases there was cause to recommend city retention of the land or to recommend conditions on the eventual sale because of forest and greenspace considerations. No data are available at this time on the outcomes of our recommendations.

B2 Presentations to Standing Committees

Objectives

Articulation of OFGAC perspective and recommendations on issues relating to trees, forests and greenspace (including wetlands)

Results

24 presentations made (Council, PEC, ARAC, CSED (see Appendix 2 at end of document).

B3 Inventories

B3.1 Notable Trees

Objectives

Development of a notable tree recognition program for Ottawa

Results

Workshop on selection criteria for notable trees attended and process for selection of trees in Ottawa described.

B3.2 CITYGreen™ - Forest Cover Evaluation

Objectives

An up-to-date forest cover evaluation for the city in 2006

Results

Attended all meetings to review progress. One small area study completed by staff. Further work is anticipated in 2007.

B4 Requested Advice

Objective

Advice on issues/questions raised by Council, standing committees, members of the public

Results

At the request of Councillor Stavinga, OFGAC supported the acquisition of a sensitive wetland in Stittsville. 38 public enquiries to OFGAC through <ofgac@ottawaforests.ca> were answered (see C1.2) in response to queries on the light rail project, trees and development issues, invasive and intrusive tree species, tree cutting issues and the City’s Trees in Trust program. OFGAC supported Councillor Hume’s 100,000 tree program (TREE) and have assisted him in advising the community via the website and through email.

B4.1 Southern Corridor

Objective

Retention of environmentally important lands in public ownership of them and “green stewardship” of them

Results

On hold until the zoning issues are resolved by the OMB.

B4.2 Pocket Parks

Objective

Research and report on feasibility of smaller parks in Ottawa

Results

Conducted a survey during Wildlife Week to determine citizen attitudes toward and amenities desired in pocket parks (trees 90%, cleanliness 67%, close to home 65%, shrubs 59%, place to sit 55%, size 50%, grass 43%, close to work 38% flowers 42%). Provided advice to Carleton University students on an socio-economic study of pocket parks in Somerset Ward.

B5 Wetlands and Natural Drainage

B5.1 Wetlands

Objective

City decisions favour the protection of provincially and “regionally” significant wetlands

Participation in community forums to promote wetland conservation

Results

Commented to ARAC on the City of Ottawa’s Wetlands Resolution Workplan and participated as member of the Wetlands Working Group, providing the OFGAC perspective on the importance of wetlands, especially relating to Goulbourn. Commented to PEC and ARAC on the final report of the Wetlands Stakeholders Resolution Workplan expressing concern about the City decision to cancel OP designation of wetlands in that area. Council clarified that the decision applied only to lands in the “Flewellyn Road area of Goulbourn Ward”.

B5.2 Natural Drainage and Ditching

Objective

Natural drainage channels are preserved to the maximum extent possible

Ditching activities strike a balance between protection of wetlands and protection of farmlands

Results

Supported the Wetlands Resolution working group in having beavers removed in problem areas in Goulbourn.

B6 Council Performance Indicators

B6.1 Follow-up to EAC-OFGAC Evaluation of Environmental Impact of 2004 Council Decisions

Objective

Transmittal of environmental evaluation that provides Councillors with the two committees' perspective on the impact of council and Planning staff 2004 decisions

Results

OFGAC report provided to City staff working on Community Indicators. No response from Councillors to OFGAC’s request for comment; project folded into B6.2.

B6.2 Community Impact Indicators

Objective

OFGAC perspective on trees, forests and greenspace incorporated into the Community Impact Indicators analysis in 2006

Results

Attended 4 meetings and focus groups with city staff to review proposed indicators and present OFGAC view on importance of greenspace and forests indicators; final report published in August reflected some of OFGAC’s views.

B7 Input to City Budgets

B7.1 Consideration of OFGAC Priorities for Budget 2007

Objective

OFGAC perspective on priorities considered and accepted by City Council in 2007

Results

City budget material reviewed in preparation for OFGAC presentations in 2007. Staff presentation in November on 2007 budget and 4-year planning process.

B8 International Society of Arboriculture Ottawa Meeting

Objective

Ottawa meeting of the ISA is successful

Results

OFGAC will assist with logistics for this meeting in April 2007 if requested.

C: Outreach

C1 Communications

C1.1 Media Outreach and Publicity

Objective

Increased public awareness of the value of trees, forests, and greenspace

Increased support for city tree, forest and greenspace initiatives

Results

The Ottawa Sun interviewed the chair about trees in Ottawa ; member interviewed by local CTV about heritage trees. Other interviews were given to the Ottawa Citizen, Orleans Star, CFRA and Radio Canada TV.

The Media & Publicity sub-committee merged with the Community Outreach and Awareness sub-committee, and became the Outreach Sub-Committee.

C1.2. OFGAC Website <www.ottawaforests.ca>

Objective

Public visits to OFGAC website increase awareness of the value of trees, forests, and greenspace and support for city tree, forest and greenspace initiatives

Results

The Site map was posted to ‘Google’ to improve website index by search engines. Volunteer Webmaster posted much new material, including details and photos of OFGAC Walks in the Woods outreach events and OFGAC presentations to Standing Committees. Based on a 3-month sample, the Website received 59,400 requests for pages in 2006 and 7.4 GB of content were transferred to readers.

In November, the most popular page (666 hits) was the Marlborough Forest Management Plan and in December, the native Tree and shrub database received 2,221 hits. Email to the website resulted in 38 enquiries on trees, forests, greenspace and wetlands which were answered or passed to the appropriate staff person for a response. Questions ranged from is Manitoba Maple a native species in the Ottawa area and is it invasive (answer - No and Yes), questions about ownership and management of trees planted on lot lines between two private properties, what caused those black spots on Norway Maple leaves (answer Tar Spot fungus), how to control the invasive buckthorn (answer - pull it out)

C1.3 Community Outreach and Awareness

Objective

Engage both the general public and professional community with respect to forests and greenspace in the City of Ottawa to expand the informed segment of the population that is supportive of sustainable forestry and knowledgeable about the environmental, economic and social values the forests and greenspace in Ottawa play

Results

Developed the “Walk in the Woods” series of 2-3 hour guided walk with local expert every two months starting in June:

McCarthy Woods [50 participants including local Councillor McRae– partner with Author of Capital Woodlands and Greenspace Alliance of Canada’s Capital: Poet’s Pathway initiative];

Arboretum and Preston Street area The Distinguished & Distressed, [40 participants – partner with Eastern Ontario Model Forest and Canadian Forest Service – Ken Farr Author of The Forests of Canada];

A Forest in the Fall – Marlborough Forest [46 participants – Sean Thompson: Ecologist, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Craig Huff: Forester, City of Ottawa); and

The Crowning Jewel of Ottawa – [35 participants NCC Pine Grove Woods – Dan Baker: Fiddlehead Forestry, Astrid Nielsen: Dendron Resource Surveys Inc.].

Developed a public relations strategy.

Presented a talk on OFGAC: its mandate and objectives, activities and accomplishments to the annual Christmas Forestry Seminar; participated in the 3-day annual Wildlife Festival at Billings Bridge, reaching thousands of visitors; attended Councillor Harder’s annual Ward meeting with the OFGAC display.

C2 Networks

Objective

Increased cooperation and information exchange between and among OFGAC and other tree- and greenspace-oriented community groups and Advisory Committees

Results

Maintained ongoing relations with other forestry groups including: Eastern Ontario Model Forest, Canadian Institute of Forestry, Urban Forest Network, Ottawa Valley chapter of Canadian Institute of Forestry and Ontario Woodlot Owners Association.

Reciprocal membership established for EAC and RIAC. Maintained ongoing relations and regular exchange of information with environmental groups such as Greenspace Alliance, Friends of the Jock River, Fletcher Wildlife Garden (OFNC), etc.

C3 Native Trees and Shrubs Database

Objective

Database of native trees and shrubs on the OFGAC web site

Fact sheets on selected native species

Memorandum to PEC on city use of native species and PEC adoption of OFGAC proposal on use of native species

Results

Data base with information on habitat requirements and characteristics of 133 native trees, shrubs and vines completed and launched on the website. Searchable product table also developed on tree size, light requirement, water requirement, salt tolerance using information from the database. Very positive comment received from professional foresters and horiculturists and 2,221 hits in its first month on the website.

D: MANAGEMENT

D1 Committee Management

Objective

Timely production of agendas, delegation of tasks to OFGAC members, review of OFGAC position papers before transmission to appropriate authorities

Results

OFGAC deadlines met, comments were provided to staff and Councillors on a timely basis; OFGAC was recognised as a positive force and contributor to the City.

D1.1 Training for Members

Objective

Knowledgeable and up-to-date OFGAC members

Results

Two training sessions given to OFGAC members on how to conduct and write development review; several sessions on tree identification given by the city forestry staff prior to OFGAC meetings. Eastern Ontario Model Forest tree identification workshop publicised and attended by an OFGAC member; tree identification lessons given during the Walks in the Woods.

D2. Governance Report Review

Objective

Timely review of 2006 Governance review report and incorporation of OFGAC objectives for the outcomes in it

Results

Comments on governance needs and possible changes to advisory committee bylaw sent to Committee Services staff; attended Chairs and Vice Chairs meeting to discuss changes in Governance Procedures.

Re-drafted OFGAC Terms of Reference and Mandate Statement.

Met with chair of Health, Recreation and Social Services and a member of Secretariat Services staff to discuss ways of improving the AC advertising and member recruitment process.

D3 Spatial Evaluation of OFGAC Activities

Objective

Spatially analyze where OFGAC focused its effort in 2005

Make recommendations regarding improvements in its effectiveness

Results

Built a computer with monitor from donated parts that will be used as a part of the OFGAC display and serve as a repository for OFGAC media.

D4 Committee Member Recruitment for 2007

Objective

Recruit and have appointed candidates with excellent qualifications and a commitment to the trees, forests and greenspace of Ottawa

Results

See D2 re recruitment process. Council decision means no recruitment for 2007.

Appendix 2 — OFGAC Presentations to Standing Committees

Council

Leitrim (jointly with the EAC) - Damage to adjacent wetland, contaminants in groundwater – 27 September

Agriculture and Rural Affairs

Wetlands - Comments on Working Group Workplan – 9 March

Wetlands - Comments on WG recommendations and wetlands impact elsewhere – 22 June

Municipal Tree Protection Bylaw - Support bylaw passage – 22 June

Bill 51 - Support conservation land easements – 24 August

Tree Maintenance Support staff proposal – 28 September

Morris Island - Fund infrastructure repairs – 26 October

Corporate Services and Economic Development

6350 Fernbank Road - Support acquisition of wetland – 17 January

2006 Budget -Support for trees, forests and greenspace maintenance and protection –7 March

Ethier St Woodlots - Support retention in city ownership, UNA status – 16 May

N/S LRT Maintenance Yard - Use existing Walkley Road site – 16 May

Biodiversity Strategy - Support in 2008 – 17 October

Nepean Woodlots Acquisition - Support land swap and acquisition of two UNAs – 17 October

Sale of Access to Water - Retain road allowances to river edges in public ownership – 17 October

Planning and Environment

5350 Fernbank - Support acquisition of wetland – 24 January

Grange Park Sale - Fund other parkland acquisition when parks sold – 28 March

Mer Bleue CDP - Delay approval of CDP – 9 May

Leitrim/Findlay Creek Subdivision - Wetland damage, contaminants – 13 June

Municipal Tree Protection Bylaw - Support bylaw passage – 13 June

Greenspace Master Plan - Support GMP; Develop and fund implementation strategy – 27 June

Bill 51- Support conservation land easements – 22 August

Leitrim - Delay zoning change; Save part of UNA 108 – 12 September

Tree Maintenance Strategy - Support staff proposal – 26 September

TREE - Support Councillor Hume proposal – 28 November

Document 2

2007 Workplan

MANDATE

The Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee (OFGAC) provides advice and guidance to Ottawa City Council, through the Planning and Environment Committee. Its mandate is to help safeguard the environment of the City, promote a sustainable, biodiverse landscape and promote the protection and conservation (wise use) of trees, forests, natural systems and greenspace by:

Providing input into plans, strategies, policies, programs and budgets related to greenspace preservation, biodiversity and the management of urban and rural forests including remediation and new forest development;

Recommending ways in which the City can meet its greenspace, biodiversity and forest related objectives as outlined in the Official Plan and other planning documents; and

Promoting public awareness of the role of greenspace and forests in protecting and enhancing quality of life.

DEFINITIONS

The urban and rural forest includes individual city trees and other vegetation as well as woodlots and forests within the City of Ottawa.

Greenspace is land, water and wetlands that are in their natural, undeveloped state as well as a land in private and public ownership that has been developed only to the extent consistent with natural systems protection, recreational uses, or agricultural and forest production.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee shall be responsible for:

· Providing advice and guidance to Council, through the Planning and Environment Committee and Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, on City policies, programs, by-laws, regulations and budgets related to forest and greenspace protection and management;

· Assisting in the development of policies, programs and bylaws that would have an impact on trees, forests and greenspace including wetlands;

· Providing a forum for citizens interested in forests and greenspace to raise issues and concerns and to have those concerns heard by Council;

· Advising on areas where the introduction of trees and tree cover would be beneficial to the environment or where their removal would have a negative impact on a site or ecosystem;

· Identifying issues that may have an impact on trees, tree cover or natural systems biodiversity and recommending ways to minimize the impact

· Advising on the introduction of windbreaks, the shading of transportation corridors, the greening of streets, roads, parks and conservation areas, the preservation of tree cover, and forest management in the City;

· Promoting and facilitating cooperation with local community groups and environmental organizations on education and other initiatives related to forest and greenspace management;

· Conducting advocacy on behalf of issues relating to Ottawa’s forests and greenspace;

· Providing advice to Council on the protection, management, acquisition and conservation of greenspace and other environmentally sensitive areas in Ottawa;

· Working to reduce the burden on the City’s Environmental Resources Areas Acquisition Fund by promoting partnerships with developers (in the form of land bequests and conservation development) and with other stakeholders (in the form of land trusts and conservation easements);

· Liaising with other City of Ottawa Advisory Committees as appropriate.

OFGAC focuses its work in four areas: Policy and Planning; Emerging Issues and Requested Advice; Outreach; and, Management as summarized in the following table.

A: Policy and Planning: Corporate Initiatives	B: Emerging Issues and Requested Advice	C: Outreach	D: Management
A1 2008 Official Plan Review	B1 Development Activities · B1.1 Community Design Plans · B1.1.1 Rockcliffe Airbase · B1.1.2 South Barrhaven · B1.2 Development Applications (OP Amendments, Zoning Changes, Subdivisions) · B1.3 Surplus City Land Disposal, Road Closures	C1 Communications · C1.1 Media outreach and publicity · C1.1.1 OFGAC Web site · C1.1.2 Multi-media and Event Display · C1.2 Community Outreach and Awareness · C1.2.1 Walk in the Woods series · C1.2.2 Councillor Open Houses and Other events	D1 Committee Management · D1.1 Committee Leadership · `D1.2 Training for members
A2 Greenspace Master Plan A2.1 Implementation of Urban GMP A2.2 Development of Rural GMP	B2 Presentations to PEC, ARAC, CSED and others as appropriate	C2 Networks and AC Cross Attendance	D2 Bill C130 Impact Review
A3 Forest Strategy	B3 Inventories B3.1 CITYGreen™ Forest Cover Evaluation	C3 Notable Trees	D3 Committee Member Recruitment for 2008
A4 Special Planning Studies incl. Subwatershed Studies · A4.1 Follow-up and Monitoring Implementation Strategies · A4.1.1 UNAEES · A4.1.2 Riverside South CDP · A4.1.3 East Urban CDP Phases 1 and 2 · A4.1.4 South Nepean CDP · A4.1.5 Greenfields Development guidelines · A4.2 Ongoing Studies	B4 Requested Advice B4.1 TREE (Councillor Hume) · B4.2 Pocket Parks	C4 Exotic Pest Management (including invasive plants and insects)
A5 Plans and Standards · A5.1 Maintenance Plans for Community Forests · A5.1.1 Torbolton · A5.1.2 Marlborough (incl. Long Swamp, Corkery) · A5.1.3 Cumberland · A5.1.4 Carp Hills · A5.1.5 South March Highlands · A5.2 Maintenance Standards for Trees and Community Forests	B5 Wetlands and Natural Drainage B5.1 Wetlands B5.2 Natural Drainage and Ditching
A6 Bylaws A6.1 Good Forestry Practices in Sensitive Natural Areas · A6.2 Comprehensive Zoning	B6 Council Performance Indicators B6.1 Corporate Plans · B6.2 Community Impact Indicators
A7 Capital Standards A7.1 Stormwater Management Planning Guidelines A7.2 Strategic Lighting Plan	B7 Input to City Budgets · B7.1 Development and expression of OFGAC priorities for Budget 2007 · B7.2 Consideration of OFGAC priorities for Budget 2008
A8 EIS Guidelines Revision

A10 Biodiversity Strategy

A: Policy and Planning

A1 2008 Official Plan Review

Objective

An updated Official Plan that increases protection for trees and ecologically valuable land (forests, wetlands, greenspace etc.).

Activities

Commence an internal OFGAC review to identify sections of the 2003 Official Plan for updating.

Review and provide comment on proposed OP modifications.

Ensure retention of natural areas sections, enhancement where identified.

Review for compliance with Provincial Policy Statements requirements.

A2 Greenspace Master Plan

A2.1 Implementation of Urban GMP

Objective

Provision of advice to PEC[1] and city staff during the implementation of this plan.

Activities

A2.2 Development of Rural GMP

Activities

Provision of advice to ARAC¹ and city staff during the development of this plan in accordance with time lines and opportunities provided for public consultation; interaction with RIAC.

Report or presentation to Council on completion of the plan.

A3 Forest Strategy

Objective

A Forest Strategy that provides the framework for the management and conservation of municipal forests and other important wooded areas in Ottawa

Activities

Provide advice to P&EC, ARAC and city staff during the development of this Strategy in accordance with time lines and opportunities provided for public consultation.

Report or presentation to Council on completion of the Strategy.

A4 Special Planning Studies including Subwatershed Studies

A4.1 Follow-up and Monitoring Implementation Strategies

A4.1.1 Urban Natural Areas Environmental Evaluation Study (UNAEES)

Implementation

Objective

The UNAEES Implementation Strategy is approved and funded by Council.

The process of acquiring ecologically valuable land, as identified in the UNAEES is commenced.

Activities

Provide advice to PEC on the implementation of the UNAEES report and propose future directions and activities.

A4.1.2 Riverside South Community Design Plan

Objective

Future development in Riverside South follows the principles outlined in the CDP.

Retention of significant trees and forests and best use of greenspace in this community.

Activities

Review and comment on subdivision plans and stormwater management proposals with close attention to preservation of hedgerows, significant trees, wetlands and greenspace.

A4.2 Ongoing Studies

LRT

That if the LRT issue is revived prior to the end of 2007, OFGC will reconsider its involvement.

A5 Plans and Standards for Forests and Trees

A5.1 Maintenance Plans for Trees and Community Forests

Objective

Network of stakeholders is established and consultative meetings with interested parties are productive

Advise on the development or updating of management plans for community forests.

Provide a forum for public input into these management plans as they are developed

Provide ongoing policy advice on community forests and advice to City during development or updating of community forest master plans

A5.1.1 Torbolton Forest

Activities

Advise the Torbolton Forest Advisory Committee on its community program to collect oak seeds for native hardwoods regeneration.

Attend meetings of Torbolton Forest Advisory Committee and provide OFGAC and ecological perspective.

Advise on the rare plant inventory and management of those plants.

A5.1.2 Marlborough

Activities

Attend meetings of Marlborough Forest Advisory Committee and provide OFGC perspective

A5.1.3 Cumberland

Activities

Provide OFGAC perspective to staff (and Council as needed) on issues arising in regard to this forest.

A5.1.4 Carp Hills

Activities

Advise staff on the development of the Management Plan.

A5.1.5 South March Highlands

Activities

Advise staff on the development of the Management Plan

A5.2 Maintenance Standards for Trees and Community Forests

Objective

Standards of care for trees, forests and greenspace that are appropriate for Ottawa are implemented. Development of rationalefor appropriate funding for 2008 Budget

Activities

Support appropriate funding levels in 2007 to ensure standards of care are implemented and develop rationale for full program funding in 2008.

A6 Bylaws

A6.1 Good Forestry Practices in Sensitive Natural Areas Bylaw

Objective

Passage of the bylaw in 2007

Activities

Continue to meet with senior staff members and Councillors to urge passage of the by-law. Reiterate OFGAC’s offer to develop information for a draft staff report for use by Standing Committees and Council.

A6.3 Comprehensive Zoning

Objective

Protection of greenspace for conservation and passive use recognized in bylaw.

Land immediately adjacent to watercourses and UNAs, UNFs and RNFs is zoned for low-rise development with appropriate buffers and setbacks built in.

Environmental Protection and other protective zoning designations reflect true ecological boundaries, not only land-ownership boundaries.

Activities

Review the 2007 draft of this bylaw and match zoning maps against ecological boundaries.

Comment on zoning proposals for forests, greenspace and ecologically important areas. Advocate for zoning that affords appropriate levels of protection to ecologically important land.

A7 Capital Standards

Objective

Standards documents, strategies and plans reflect protection of trees, forests and greenspace philosophy and practice.

A7.1 Stormwater Management Planning Guidelines

Activities

Review strategies and reports as they are made available by staff and comment to staff and the appropriate Standing Committee.

A7.2 Strategic Lighting Plan

Activities

Review strategies and reports as they are made available by staff and comment to staff and the appropriate Standing Committee.

A8 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Guidelines Revision

Objective

The 1998 EIS Guidelines are updated and improved to 2007 standards.

Activities

Review other city’s and country’s EIS and environmental assessment guidelines and bring these to the attention of city staff.

Review drafts of the new guidelines and provide OFGAC’s perspective on the adequacy of them in regard to the assessment of impacts of development of trees, forests, greenspace, wetlands, biodiversity.

Identify tools for implementation, opportunities and barriers.

A9 Air Quality and Climate Change Adaptation Strategy

Objective

OFGAC perspective in regard to role of trees, forests, greenspace and wetlands in adaptation to climate change is incorporated in the Adaptation Strategy

Activities

Liaise with City staff and the Environmental Advisory Committee to review drafts of the action plan document

Provide OFGAC perspective on content of the document and strength of actions described in it.

A10 Biodiversity Strategy

Objective

OFGAC perspective in regard to role of trees, forests, greenspace and wetlands in the preservation and enhancement of native biodiversity is incorporated in the development of the draft Terms of Reference as mandated by the CSED and Council in October 2006.

Activities

Participate in the development of the Terms of Reference for the Biodiversity Strategy and subsequent writing of the Strategy.

B: Emerging Issues and Requested advice

B1 Development Activities

B1.1 Community Design Plans

Objective

Community Design Plans are models of sustainability, reflecting a perspective that respects the environment and preserves trees, greenspace, wetlands to the maximum extent possible.

B1.1.1 Rockcliffe Airbase Redevelopment

Activities

Provide OFGAC perspective to Public Advisory Committee (PAC) in the development of the Community Design Plan.

Promote an environmental perspective and the preservation of greenspace including the adjacent Urban Natural Area and the retention of mature trees on the site.

Attend all PAC meetings and sit as an alternate on the Technical Advisory Committee

B1.1.2 South Barrhaven

Activities

Promote an environmental perspective and the preservation of greenspace.

Identify natural features to be preserved.

Provide OFGAC perspective to Public Advisory Committee.

B1.2 Review Development Applications (OP Amendments, Zoning Changes, Subdivision proposals)

Objective

OFGAC perspective (relating to potential impact on trees, forests, greenspace and wetlands and impact on native biodiversity) is provided to Council and city planners.

Activities

Review development proposals and provide comments to city planners preparing reports to Director of Planning on development proposals or Council on zoning change or Official Plan Amendment proposals. Appear before PEC or ARAC to provide verbal and written comments on an as-needed basis.

B1.3 Review Proposals to Sell Surplus Land, Close Roads, Change Land Use

Objective

Real Property and Asset Management (RPAM) staff are advised of OFAC’s views on disposals and closures or proposed changes to the use of city-owned land.

Lands in municipal ownership with forest, greenspace or wetlands value are retained by the city in their natural state.

Activities

Review disposal/road closure proposals and provide comment to RPAM on a timely basis.

If data available, determine outcome of OFGAC’s 2006 advice.

Appear before CSED to provide verbal and written comments on an as-needed basis.

B2 Presentations to Standing Committees

Objectives

Articulation of OFGAC perspective and recommendations on issues relating to trees, forests and greenspace (including wetlands) and impact on native biodiversity.

Activities

Review of background material

Preparation of written texts to be delivered either by email in advance or in person to Committee of the Whole, ARAC, PEC, CSED, Transit or other Standing Committees as necessary

B3 Inventories

B3.1 CITYGreen™ - Forest Cover Evaluation

Objectives

An up-to-date forest cover evaluation for the city in 2007 updates the 1995 analysis of canopy cover and demonstrates the economic value of trees and greenspace in Ottawa

Activities

Attend meetings to review progress. Comment on results from an OFGAC perspective; report to OFGAC.

B4 Requested Advice

Objective

Provision of timely and accurate advice on issues/questions raised by Council, Standing Committees, Councillors and members of the public

B4.1 Pocket Parks

Objective

A report on the feasibility and proposed location of smaller parks in Ottawa

Activities

Follow-up to OFGAC survey that determined citizen attitudes toward and amenities desired in pocket parks.

B5 Wetlands and Natural Drainage

B5.1 Wetlands

Objective

City decisions favour the protection of provincially and “regionally” significant wetlands

Participation in community forums to promote wetland conservation.

Greater appreciation by citizens of Ottawa on the value of wetlands to Ottawa’s wellbeing.

Activities

Participate as member of Wetlands Resolution Group when re-constituted.

Participation in community forums on wetlands and articulate OFGAC perspective on the value of wetlands to the entire community.

Monitor land development proposals and city land sales and provide comment that leads to wetland conservation/protection.

Post information on wetlands and their value on the OFGAC Web site.

B5.2 Natural Drainage and Ditching

Objective

Natural drainage channels are preserved to the maximum extent possible

Ditching activities strike a balance between protection of wetlands and protection of farmlands

Activities

Review proposals for ditching and diversion/conversion of streams and provide comment to staff and Council.

B6 Council Performance Indicators

B6.1 Corporate Plan Review

Objective

Revisions to Corporate Plans include OFGAC perspective on trees, forests, greenspace (including wetlands) and native biodiversity.

Activities

Attend consultations and review and provide comments on draft of revised Corporate Plans

B6.2 Community Impact Indicators

Objective

OFGAC perspective on trees, forests and greenspace incorporated into the Community Impact Indicators analysis in 2007

Activities

Review and comment on staff reports as they are made available and attend consultations as they are called.

B7 Input to City Budgets

B7.1 Consideration of OFGAC Priorities for Budget 2007

Objective

OFGAC perspective on priorities considered and accepted by City Council in 2007

Activities

Review and analyze of 2007 budget documents to develop OFGAC priorities

Attendance at Councillors' candidate election meetings to outline OFGAC priorities

Discussions with individual Councillors and candidates to promote OFGAC priorities

Preparation for formal presentation of OFGAC priorities at Council Committee of the Whole for 2008 budget.

B7.2 Consideration of OFGAC Priorities for Budget 2008

Objective

OFGAC perspective on priorities considered and accepted by City Council in 2007-2008

Activities

Review and analysis of 2008 budget documents or budget directions to develop OFGAC priorities

Attendance at Councillors' meetings to outline OFGAC priorities

Discussions with individual Councillors promote OFGAC priorities

Preparation for formal presentation of OFGAC priorities at Council Committee of the Whole in 2007-2008

C: Outreach

C1 Communications

C1.1 Media Outreach and Publicity

Objective

Increased public awareness and appreciation of the value of trees, forests, and greenspace (including wetlands)

Increased support for city tree, forest and greenspace (including wetlands) and biodiversity initiatives

Activities

Respond to media requests for interviews / comments following OFGAC media relations policy.

Identify opportunities to profile OFGAC and / or OFGAC areas of interest through local / national print, television and radio outlets.

Create profile for OFGAC’s areas of interest by leveraging local / national environment-related events (Ottawa’s annual tree planting, Clean Air Day, etc) and writing articles on forests and greenspace issues for distribution to local / national media outlets, as appropriate.

C1.1.1 OFGAC Web site <www.ottawaforests.ca>

Objective

Public visits to OFGAC Web site increase awareness of the value of trees, forests, and greenspace and support for city tree, forest and greenspace/wetlands and biodiversity initiatives

Activities

Maintain and regularly update OFGAC’s Web site < www.ottawaforests.ca >.

Timely posting of OFGAC agendas, minutes and presentations on the Web site.

Posting of City Forestry Service information (or redirection to city Web site as appropriate).

Respond to or re-direct public enquiries received via the Web site.

C1.1.2 Multi-media and Event Display

Objective

The creation of custom, interactive media (print, electronic, etc.) for delivering current, high quality information on Ottawa area forests and greenspace issues

Activities

Continually update and create a new material for the OFGAC table display boards

Develop a generic OFGAC PowerPoint slide show that can be customized according to audience and subject matter.

C1.2 Community Outreach and Awareness

Objective

An engaged Ottawa-area community, informed of the environmental, economic and social values of the forests and greenspaces of Ottawa.

C1.2.1 The Walk in the Woods Series

Activities

Conduct six “Walk in the Woods” events. Four walks have been planned to date: March – Vanier Sugar Bush; April – Spring flowers; June – Landscape Planning; August – McKay Lake Carver-Caldwell Conservation Area

C1.2.2 Councillor Open Houses and Other Events

Activities

Attend Councillors’ Open Houses with the OFGAC display to promote the value of trees, forests, greenspaces, wetlands and native biodiversity to the City of Ottawa.

Attend other events such as Wildlife Week at Billings Bridge to promote the value of trees, forests, greenspaces, wetlands and native biodiversity to the City of Ottawa

C2 Networks and Advisory Committee Cross Attendance

Objective

Increased cooperation and information exchange between and among OFGAC and other tree- and greenspace-oriented community groups and other Advisory Committees

Activities

Maintain ongoing relations with other tree-, forestry- and greenspace-related groups

Frances Coates – Environmental Advisory Committee

Bill Grant – Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee

Iola Price – Rural Issues Advisory Committee

Peter Hall – Canadian Institute of Forestry, Ottawa Valley Section

Guy Brassard, Mark Rowsell – Canadian Urban Forestry Network

Mark Rowsell, Martha Copestake, Peter Hall – Eastern Ontario Model Forest

Iola Price – Fletcher Wildlife Garden

Nicole Parent – Friends of the Jock River

Peter Hall – Friends of Petrie Island

Iola Price – Greenspace Alliance of Canada's Capital

Pieter Leenhouts, Bill Grant, (Sandra Garland) – Marlborough Forest Advisory Committee

Jackie Oblak – Torbolton Forest Advisory Committee

Iola Price Ottawa – Field-Naturalists Club

Peter Hall – Tree Canada Foundation

Pieter Leenhouts – Ontario Woodlot Association

Guy Brassard, Deborah Ironside – Ontario Heritage Tree Alliance

Mark Rowsell – Ottawa Stewardship Council

All members – their community associations

C3 Notable Trees

Objectives

Development of a notable tree recognition program for Ottawa

Activities

Discuss and establish criteria for notable trees or stands of trees taking into account the work of the Ontario Heritage Tree Alliance (OHTA).

In consultation with the Arts and Heritage Advisory Committee, Local Architecture Conservation Advisory Committee, Heritage Ottawa, begin research on and for suitable trees (i.e., history and provenance), including groups or stands of trees.

Meet with NCC and City Forestry staff and city Heritage staff to promote concept of a program for Ottawa.

Develop publicity and outreach program to obtain tree nominations from citizens, organizations, corporations, and government agencies.

Develop a pilot project with a community association.

C4 Exotic Pest Management

Objectives

Advise to PEC, ARAC and staff on exotic forest pests and diseases that could threaten Ottawa’s trees and forests during development of the city’s forest services protocol.

Increased public awareness of exotic invasive forest pests and their potentially adverse impact on Ottawa’s trees and forests and timber industry.

Activities

Inform OFGAC (via periodic distribution of material, and updates at OFGAC meetings) about exotic forest pests and their potential effects on Ottawa trees and forests, with particular emphasis on the most current invasive threats (ongoing).

Prepare material for the OFGAC Web site and printed material: general information on exotic forest pests, as well as on specific current exotic pests threatening urban trees and forests in Canada – Exotic pests as threats to urban trees and forests; Asian Long-Horned Beetle (ALHB); Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) – in collaboration with OFGAC’s Outreach Subcommittee.

Liaise with City of Ottawa staff on exotic pest management protocols, contingency planning, and educational/outreach programs.

Network with other citizen and professional groups on exotic forest pests.

D: MANAGEMENT

D1 Committee Management

D1.1 Activities to Run the Committee

Objective

OFGAC deadlines are met and comments provided to Councillors and staff on a timely basis.

Timely production of agendas, delegation of tasks to OFGAC members, OFGAC position papers are reviewed and approved prior to onward transmission.

OFGAC recognised as a positive force and contributor to the City.

Activities

Develop agendas, review draft minutes prior to distribution to members.

Review OFGAC position statements and other material prior to distribution to Council, staff and the public.

Attend Chairs and Vice Chairs meetings and present OFGAC perspective on issues relating to the Advisory Committees.

D1.2 Training for Members

Objective

Knowledgeable, effective and up-to-date OFGAC members.

Activities

Investigate the potential to provide media training for OFGAC members.

D2. Bill 130 Impact Review

Objective

OFGAC perspective on the 2007 staff report on impact of Bill 130 on City procedures, changes to Advisory Committees and other issues is transmitted to Council and staff.

Activities

Review staff report when released, comment on possible changes to Advisory Committee status,

D3 Committee Member Recruitment for 2008

Objective

Recruitment and appointment of candidates with excellent qualifications and a commitment to the trees, forests and greenspace of Ottawa.

Activities

Review and update selection criteria

Critical review of submitted applications

Review and update of interview questions and circulate to Councillors for approval

Interview and select candidates (with Councillors)

Document 3

REVISED TERMS OF REFERENCE

Mandate

Providing input into plans, strategies, policies, programs and budgets related to greenspace preservation, biodiversity conservation, preservation and restoration and the management of urban and rural forests including remediation and new forest development;

Recommending ways in which the City can meet its greenspace, biodiversity conservation, preservation and restoration and forest related objectives as outlined in the Official Plan and other planning documents; and

Promoting public awareness of the role of greenspace and forests in protecting and enhancing quality of life.

Definitions

The urban and rural forest includes individual city trees and other vegetation as well as woodlots and forests within the City of Ottawa.

Responsibilities

The Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee shall be responsible for:

Providing advice and guidance to Council, through the Planning and Environment Committee and Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, on City policies, programs, by-laws, regulations and budgets related to forest and greenspace protection and management;

Assisting in the development of policies, programs and bylaws that would have an impact on trees, forests and greenspace including wetlands;

Providing a forum for citizens interested in forests and greenspace to raise issues and concerns and to have those concerns heard by Council;

Advising on areas where the introduction of trees and tree cover would be beneficial to the environment or where their removal would have a negative impact on a site or ecosystem;

Identifying issues that may impact on trees, tree cover or natural systems biodiversity and recommending ways to minimize the impact;

Advising on the introduction of windbreaks, the shading of transportation corridors, the greening of streets, roads, parks and conservation areas, the preservation of tree cover, and forest management in the City;

Promoting and facilitating cooperation with local community groups and environmental organizations on education and other initiatives related to forest and greenspace management;

Conducting advocacy on behalf of issues relating to Ottawa’s forests and greenspace;

Providing advice to Council on the protection, management, acquisition and conservation of greenspace and other environmentally sensitive areas in Ottawa;

Working to reduce the burden on the City’s Environmental Resources Areas Acquisition Fund by promoting partnerships with developers (in the form of land bequests and conservation development) and with other stakeholders (in the form of land trusts and conservation easements);

Liaising with other City of Ottawa Advisory Committees as appropriate.

ORGANIZATION

The Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee shall have a citizen membership of between 9 – 15 with a minimum of one citizen appointment representing the rural community.

Both the Planning and Environment Committee and Ottawa City Council shall approve all appointments to the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee.

In addition, the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee shall also have in a resource, liaison and/or advisory capacity, the following:

· 1 staff representative from the Forestry Division of the Public Works and Services Department (non-voting).

· In addition, staff resources from the Environmental Sustainability Division of the Planning and Growth Management Department, and others from this Department on an as required basis (non-voting).

The process for choosing membership for the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee will follow the approved Appointments Policy.

LEAD DEPARTMENT/REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

The lead department for the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee is the Public Works and Services Department (Forestry Division). The Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee reports through the Planning and Environment Committee to Ottawa City Council. For issues affecting rural forest areas in the City, the OFGAC will report through the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee to City Council.

WORKPLANS AND ANNUAL REPORTS

The Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee must report annually to City Council through the Planning and Environment Committee (timing to be determined by the Chair, Advisory Committee Coordinator and City Clerk) on the activities of the Committee in the current year and on the Committee’s workplan for the following year.

[1] PEC = Planning and Environment; ARAC = Agriculture and Rural Affairs; CSED = Corporate Services and Economic Development