As part of the Town’s Official Plan Review, we undertook a Town-wide Natural Heritage Resources Study to ensure a sufficient amount of land is designated to the natural heritage needs of the Town’s growing population to 2051. The Natural Heritage Resources Study guides policy development to help protect and sustainably manage the Town’s natural environment. The study supports the Official Plan Review by identifying and exploring policy recommendations to support the natural environment and promote environmental protection and awareness.  

The Natural Heritage Policy Study consisted of two phases, which included the following tasks:

• A high-level assessment of the Town’s Natural Heritage and Greenlands system was completed as a desktop review and analysis of available data/mapping to establish the baseline conditions in the Town. Key issues and opportunities were identified which supported the need for mapping and policy modifications.  

• Specific areas possibly requiring restoration were identified, along with isolated islands of natural heritage features for restoration and connection. 

• Recommendations and policy directions were developed to support restoration and connection, including recommendations and policy directions pertaining to the development approvals process.  

• A review of the Town’s current Natural Heritage policies/initiatives was undertaken to identify opportunities for improvement.  

• Areas of ecological concern in the Town were identified including consideration for invasive species and wildlife. Opportunities for the establishment of natural heritage targets were considered.  

• Policy considerations for potential future impacts to the Natural Heritage System and Greenlands were considered, as well as cumulative impacts as appropriate.

A Phase 1 Background Report was prepared to outline the findings and analysis of Phase 1 along with preliminary recommendations and actions for: areas requiring restoration or connections, Town policies/initiatives and development approval process, areas of ecological concern and natural heritage targets, and development practices and policy considerations.