Lake Ontario contains seven Areas of Concern, of which Toronto and Hamilton
Harbour are of the largest magnitude. The others are Port Hope and the Bay of Quinte in Ontario and Eighteen Mile Creek, Rochester and Oswego in New York. An eighth, the Niagara River AOC, supplies approximately 70% of the contaminant loading to Lake Ontario. Lake Erie's Buffalo River also primarily impacts Lake Ontario rather than Lake Erie.
Lakewide, accelerated eutrophication has been brought under control, but remains a problem in localized bays and river mouth areas, notably Hamilton Harbour and the Bay of Quinte............
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solec lst 01
Lake St. Clair is a relatively small shallow lake of 1114 square kilometres (430 square miles) and a volume of 4.2 cubic kilometres (1 cubic mile). It lies between Lakes Huron and Erie but is completely within the Lake Erie drainage basin. There is a high population and industrial base surrounding it. This has led to the loss of much of the surrounding habitat/wetlands, and to
contaminant problems in both the water and the sediments. Lake St. Clair and the St. Clair River are very important staging areas for migrating birds and fish, so habitat loss is a real concern. Zebra mussels are a major influence on the Lake St. Clair ecosystem. The population explosion of the mussels has resulted in better water clarity/quality, but this in turn has altered the nutrient cycling and food chains, as well as allowing aquatic vegetation to spread throughout the Lake.
There are four Areas of Concern in the Lake St. Clair area which affect Lake Erie: St. Clair, Clinton, Detroit, and Rouge River. There is no specific LaMP for the Lake but it is generally managed similarly to Lake Erie. Priority is given to exotic species, loss of habitat, and persistent toxic contaminants.
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solec lm 02
Environmental quality in the Lake Michigan basin generally follows a north south gradient, being best in the north and degrading to the south. There are ten Areas of Concern around the Lake where the worst degradation exists. In terms of magnitude, the Indiana Harbor, Milwaukee and Green Bay AOCs are the largest and most degraded although Waukegan Harbor and the Kalamazoo River contain very large quantities of PCBs. Manistique, Menominee, Sheboygan, Muskegon and White Lake are less degraded, but still have beneficial use impairments.
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solec lh 02
Lake Huron is literally the lake in the middle, both geographically and in environmental quality. It has relatively good quality of water and wetlands except in the Areas of Concern.
Originally, there were five AOCs on Lake Huron, one of which, Collingwood Harbour, has since been cleaned up and was taken off the list of AOCs in 1994. The binational St. Marys area at the head of the Lake was originally designated because of contaminants, but is also a major and growing source of lampreys. Control of industrial sources is progressing and pollution loads are being reduced. The two other Canadian AOCs, Spanish River and Severn Sound are responding well to remedial actions and showing recovery. The U.S. AOC is Saginaw Bay.....
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solec le 02
There are ten Areas of Concern on Lake Erie, but the Detroit and Sarnia areas also contribute to its problems. The Buffalo AOC has little affect on the Lake as most of its discharge is drawn into the Niagara River and into Lake Ontario. Presque Isle, Pennsylvania and Wheatley Harbour, Ontario are relatively small, but the others are major problem areas. The Ashtabula,
Cuyahoga, Black, Maumee and Raisin River areas all present formidable problems as do the St. Clair, Clinton, Detroit and Rouge River areas upstream.
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solec tab 06
Ecological Health Habitat Human Health Human Use
1. Degradation of fish and 7. Loss of fish and 8. Restrictions on fish and 10. Tainting of fish and
2. Degradation of Benthos 9. Beach Closings 11. Restrictions on dredging
activities
3. Degradation of plankton 12. Restrictions on drinking
populations water consumption, or
taste and odour problems
4. Eutrophication or 13. Degradation of undesirable algae aestetics
5. Fish tumors or other 14. Added costs to
defornities agriculture or industry
6. Bird or animal deformities
or reproductive problemssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
Beneficial Use Impairments by Categoryyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
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TABLE
enterPage
"TABLE" = 570,1335,9135,3170
Area of Concern Ecological Health Habitat Human Health Human Use
TABLE
Peninsula Harbour
Jackfish Bay
Nipigon Bay
Thunder Bay
St. Louis River
Torch Lake
Deer Lake
Lake Superior Impaired Usessyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
eight
seven
twelfe
three
thirteen
eleven
fourteen
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Note: Click on any black rectangle and you will see which problems occur in a given area of concern..........them and you will see an explanation of which problems occurr in a given area....
Bird or animal deformities or reproductive problems
Fish tumors or other deformities
Degradation of fish and wildlife population
Degradation of benthos
Eutrophication or undesiderable algae
seven
Loss of fish and wildlife habitat
eight
Restrictions on fish and widlife consumption
twelfe
Restrictions on drinking water consumption, or taste and odour problems
eleven
Restrictions on dredging activities
Beach Closingss
fourteen
Added costs to agriculture or industry
Tainting of fish and wildlife flavour
three
Degradation of plankton populations
thirteen
Degradation of aesthetics
solec tab 8
TABLE
enterPage
"TABLE" = 200,1335,9135,3855
$L% &
TABLE
Manistique River
Lower Menominee
Lower Green Bay
Sheboygan River
Milwaukee Estuary
Waukegan Harbor
Grand Calumet River
Kalamazoo River
Muskegon Lake
White Lake
Area of Concern Ecological Health Habitat Human Health Human Use
!o )"
Lake Michigan Impaired Usesyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
three
Degradation of plankton populations
Fish tumors or other deformities
Degradation of fish and wildlife population
Degradation of benthos
Eutrophication or undesiderable algae
Bird or animal deformities or reproductive problems
seven
Loss of fish and wildlife habitat
eight
Restrictions on fish and widlife consumption
Beach Closingss
Tainting of fish and wildlife flavour
eleven
Restrictions on dredging activities
twelfe
Restrictions on drinking water consumption, or taste and odour problems
fourteen
Added costs to agriculture or industry
eight
seven
twelfe
three
thirteen
eleven
fourteen
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Note: Click on any black rectangle and you will see which problems occur in a given area of concern..........them and you will see an explanation of which problems occurr in a given area....
thirteen
Degradation of aesthetics
solec tab 9
TABLE
enterPage
"TABLE" = 300,1335,9135,2595
TABLE
Saginaw River
Collingwood Harbour Delisted
Severn Sound
Spanish Harbour
egan Harbor
Grand Calumet River
Kalamazoo River
Muskegon Lake
White Lakeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Area of Concern Ecological Health Habitat Human Health Human Usec
j + s
Lake Huron Impaired Usesyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Degradation of fish and wildlife population
Degradation of benthos
three
Degradation of plankton populations
Eutrophication or undesiderable algae
Fish tumors or other deformities
Bird or animal deformities or reproductive problems
seven
Loss of fish and wildlife habitat
fourteen
Added costs to agriculture or industry
twelfe
Restrictions on drinking water consumption, or taste and odour problems
eleven
Restrictions on dredging activities
Tainting of fish and wildlife flavour
Beach Closingss
eight
Restrictions on fish and widlife consumption
eight
seven
twelfe
three
thirteen
eleven
fourteen
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thirteen
Degradation of aesthetics
Restriction on fish and wildlife consumption is not attributable to local sources for Collingwood Harbour and Spanish Harbour.
solec tab 10
TABLE
enterPage
"TABLE" = 450,1335,9135,3420
Area of Concern Ecological Health Habitat Human Health Human Use
TABLE
River Raisin
Maumeee River
Black River
Cuyhahoga River
Ashtabula River
Presque Isle Bay
Wheatley Harbour
Buffalo River
Rouge River
Clinton Rivereeeeeeeeeeeeee
Lake Erie Impaired Usessssssssssssssssssssyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Degradation of fish and wildlife population
Degradation of benthos
three
Degradation of plankton populations
Eutrophication or undesiderable algae
Fish tumors or other deformitiesS
Bird or animal deformities or reproductive problems
seven
Loss of fish and wildlife habitat
Beach Closingss
eight
Restrictions on fish and widlife consumption
Tainting of fish and wildlife flavour
eleven
Restrictions on dredging activities
twelfe
Restrictions on drinking water consumption, or taste and odour problems
fourteen
Added costs to agriculture or industry
eight
seven
twelfe
three
thirteen
eleven
fourteen
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thirteen
Degradation of aesthetics
solec tab 11
TABLE
enterPage
"TABLE" = 250,1335,9135,3135
TABLE
Eighteen Mile Creek
Rochester Embayment
Oswego River
Bay of Quinte
Port Hope Harbour
Metro Toronto
Hamilton Harbour
Area of Concern Ecological Health Habitat Human Health Human Usee
Lake Ontario Impaired Usesssssssssssssssssyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Degradation of fish and wildlife population
three
Degradation of plankton populations
Eutrophication or undesiderable algae
Fish tumors or other deformities
Bird or animal deformities or reproductive problems
seven
Loss of fish and wildlife habitat
eight
Restrictions on fish and widlife consumption
Beach Closingss
Tainting of fish and wildlife flavour
eleven
Restrictions on dredging activities
eight
seven
twelfe
three
thirteen
eleven
fourteen
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Degradation of benthos
fourteen
Added costs to agriculture or industry
thirteen
Degradation of aesthetics
twelfe
Restrictions on drinking water consumption, or taste and odour problems
solec cc 01
Great Lakes connecting channels are often the most heavily utilized by humans, therefore all five of the connecting channels have impaired habitat. Part or all of each connecting channel has been designated as an Areas of Concern. In addition to the impacts of agriculture, industry and urbanization (which also affect the Lakes), the connecting channels suffer from physical alterations for shipping, water level management and power generation causing a loss of wetlands and rapids habitat.
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solec tab 12
Area of Concern Ecological Health Habitat Human Health Human Use
TABLE
St. Marys River
St. Clair River
Detroit River
Niagara River (ON)
Niagara River (NY)
St. Lawrence R. (ON)
St. Lawrence R. (NY)
* v S
Great Lakes Connecting Channels Impaired Usesssyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Degradation of fish and wildlife population
Degradation of benthos
three
Degradation of plankton populations
Eutrophication or undesiderable algae
Fish tumors or other deformities
Bird or animal deformities or reproductive problems
Beach Closingss
thirteen
Degradation of aesthetics
eight
seven
twelfe
three
thirteen
eleven
fourteen
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fourteen
Added costs to agriculture or industry
eleven
Restrictions on dredging activities
twelfe
Restrictions on drinking water consumption, or taste and odour problems
seven
Loss of fish and wildlife habitat
eight
Restrictions on fish and widlife consumption
Tainting of fish and wildlife flavour
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solec ls 02
In terms of environmental quality, Lake Superior is distinguished by its high quality compared to the other Great Lakes and many parts of the U.S. and southern Canada. This is due in large part to the relatively small population and very limited agriculture. Notable exceptions to this high quality are the seven Areas of Concern where beneficial uses including the aquatic communities are impaired. Areas of Concern include: the lower reach of the St. Louis River/Bay near Duluth, MN and Superior, Wisconsin; Thunder Bay, Ontario; and the smaller areas of Jackfish Bay, Nipigon Bay and Peninsula
Harbour in Ontario and Torch and Deer Lakes in Michigan. Progress
is being made in restoring beneficial uses to all of the AOCs.............
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box 6.3
agement
in the face
GREAT LAKES WATER QUALITY AGREEMENT
The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement is probably the most influential binational agreement subsequent to the Canada-U.S. Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909. First signed in 1972, it covers all the Great Lakes and the international portion of the St. Lawrence River. Its primary purpose in 1972 was to stem and reverse eutrophication in the lower Great Lakes. In its revised (1978) and
amended (1987) forms, the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement focuses on persistent toxic chemicals and commits Canada and the United States "to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the waters of the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem." Some specific commitments under the agreement that are of particular importance for the management of toxic substances in the Great Lakes are:
the virtual elimination of persistent toxic substances;
development of Remedial Action Plans (RAPs) for nearshore
Areas of Concern (AOCs) and of Lakewide Management Plans
(LaMPs) for each of the Great Lakes;
monitoring to assess progress and trends and to detect new
problems (e.g., to resolve the question of atmospheric
deposition of toxic substances); and
determination of mass balances of persistent toxic substances,
and the study of their effects.
The role of the IJC is to monitor progress, provide advice to the parties to the agreement, distribute information, and provide a public forum for consultation. The IJC has been particularly influential through its biennial meetings and reports and through its advisory boards (Water Quality Board, Air Quality Board,
Science Advisory Board, Council of Great Lakes Research Managers). The governments of Canada and Ontario concluded the Canada-Ontario Agreement in 1994 to jointly fulfil Canada's responsibilities under the agreement........ent.ent.nt.t.ent.nt.nt........................
Box 6.4
Introduction and overview of the Canadian Remedial Action Plan
(RAP) program
The 1987 revision of the Canada
United States Great Lakes Water
Quality Agreement formalized the requirements for Remedial Action
Plans (RAPs). Restoration of beneficial uses within the Areas of
Concern (AOCs) is the primary mission of RAPs and is an essential
step in restoring the integrity of the Great Lakes basin ecosystem.
Canada and Ontario committed themselves under the Canada
Ontario
Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem to joint
development and implementation of RAPs for the Canadian AOCs. The
lead provincial and federal agencies are the Ontario Ministry of
Environment and Energy and Environment Canada, respectively. The
current Canada
Ontario Agreement target is to restore 60% of all
impaired uses, leading to the delisting of nine AOCs by the year
2000.
The Canada
Ontario Agreement RAP program emphasizes adoption of a
systematic and comprehensive ecosystem approach to restoring and
protecting beneficial uses and the area's ability to support
aquatic life. Particular attention has been given to ensuring that
the public is consulted on all aspects of the RAP program.
Guidelines for public involvement were developed and implemented
early in the program, and local public advisory committees were
established to provide direction for the plans and to generate
community awareness and support for them. This awareness and
support are crucial for successful implementation of RAPs.
RAPs are an iterative, action-planning process used to identify the
responsibility and time frame for implementing remedial and
preventative actions necessary to restore impaired uses in a three-
stage process. Stage 1 includes problem definition and
identification of sources and causes of environmental degradation;
Stage 2 identifies goals and remedial and preventative actions to
restore beneficial uses; and Stage 3 requires confirmation of the
effectiveness of those measures and restoration of the beneficial
uses. Documents are developed at each of these stages and forwarded
to the IJC for review and comment. To date, of the original 17 AOCs
in Canada, one, Collingwood Harbour, has been delisted as an AOC
(delisted in 1995; Hartig and Dolan 1995). The remaining 16 are at
various stages of development and implementation.
One of the driving forces behind the Canadian RAPs is Environment
Canada's Great Lakes Clean-up Fund. Since 1990, $43 million in
federal funds has been directed to the goals of cleaning up
contaminated harbour sediments using safe technologies, solving
sewage treatment plant problems caused by combined storm and
sanitary sewers, restoring and creating fish and wildlife habitat,
and public education. This has levered an additional $79 million
from other implementors.
Although the ultimate success of a RAP is measured by restoration
of beneficial uses, including biological recovery, the critical
content of RAPs consists of the clear identification of a limited
number of key action steps that are essential to recovery. The
process of identifying those high-priority actions and gaining
support for their implementation lies at the heart of the RAP
process. Many of the use impairments and problems in AOCs are
similar; however, the site-specific approaches and solutions vary
substantially. Therefore, it is important to continue to emphasize
cooperative learning through RAPs, monitor progress, and recognize
our mutual dependencies in restoring and maintaining the integrity
of the Great Lakes.
Lakewide Management Plans (LaMPs) are intended to set lakewide
reduction targets for critical pollutants. As such, they may seek
reductions in pollutants that are not fully addressed by RAPs. RAPs
contribute to lakewide resolution of impairments, as most industry
and contaminated sediment are in AOCs. LaMPs will invariably
reinforce the need for RAP implementation..........
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Click here to listen to a summary of this page
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Click here to go back to the beginning
Click here to leave the program for good
Click here to get some helpe beginning
Click here to go back to the previous screen
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box 6.4
Introduction and overview of the Canadian Remedial Action Plan (RAP) program
The 1987 revision of the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement formalized the requirements for Remedial Action Plans (RAPs). Restoration of beneficial uses within the Areas of Concern (AOCs) is the primary mission of RAPs and is an essential step in restoring the integrity of the Great Lakes basin ecosystem.
Canada and Ontario committed themselves under the Canada-Ontario Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem to joint development and implementation of RAPs for the Canadian AOCs. The lead provincial and federal agencies are the Ontario Ministry of Environment and Energy and Environment Canada, respectively. The current Canada-Ontario Agreement target is to restore 60% of all impaired uses, leading to the delisting of nine AOCs by the year 2000.
The Canada-Ontario Agreement RAP program emphasizes adoption of a systematic and comprehensive ecosystem approach to restoring and
protecting beneficial uses and the area's ability to support aquatic life. Particular attention has been given to ensuring that the public is consulted on all aspects of the RAP program. Guidelines for public involvement were developed and implemented early in the program, and local public advisory committees were established to provide direction for the plans and to generate
community awareness and support for them. This awareness and support are crucial for successful implementation of RAPs.
RAPs are an iterative, action-planning process used to identify the responsibility and time frame for implementing remedial and preventative actions necessary to restore impaired uses in a three-stage process. Stage 1 includes problem definition and identification of sources and causes of environmental degradation; Stage 2 identifies goals and remedial and preventative actions to restore beneficial uses; and Stage 3 requires confirmation of the effectiveness of those measures and restoration of the beneficial uses. Documents are developed at each of these stages and forwarded to the IJC for review and comment. To date, of the original 17 AOCs
in Canada, one, Collingwood Harbour, has been delisted as an AOC (delisted in 1995; Hartig and Dolan 1995). The remaining 16 are at various stages of development and implementation.
One of the driving forces behind the Canadian RAPs is Environment Canada's Great Lakes Clean-up Fund. Since 1990, $43 million in federal funds has been directed to the goals of cleaning up contaminated harbour sediments using safe technologies, solving sewage treatment plant problems caused by combined storm and sanitary sewers, restoring and creating fish and wildlife habitat, and public education. This has levered an additional $79 million
from other implementors.
Although the ultimate success of a RAP is measured by restoration of beneficial uses, including biological recovery, the critical content of RAPs consists of the clear identification of a limited number of key action steps that are essential to recovery. The process of identifying those high-priority actions and gaining support for their implementation lies at the heart of the RAP
process. Many of the use impairments and problems in AOCs are similar; however, the site-specific approaches and solutions vary substantially. Therefore, it is important to continue to emphasize cooperative learning through RAPs, monitor progress, and recognize our mutual dependencies in restoring and maintaining the integrity of the Great Lakes.
Lakewide Management Plans (LaMPs) are intended to set lakewide reduction targets for critical pollutants. As such, they may seek reductions in pollutants that are not fully addressed by RAPs. RAPs contribute to lakewide resolution of impairments, as most industry and contaminated sediment are in AOCs. LaMPs will invariably reinforce the need for RAP implementation........................................
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bay of quinte
kBay of Quinte Remedial Action Plan
Background
The Bay of Quinte Area of Concern (AOC) is a Z-shaped embayment on the
north shore of Lake Ontario. The Bay is approximately 100 km long and is
separated from the open lake by Prince Edward County and Amherst Island.
Its drainage area is 17,315 km2. The cities of Trenton, Peterborough, and
Belleville, the towns of Napanee, Picton, Campbellford, Lindsay, Frankford,
and Deseronto, 14 villages and four First Nations are located in the
drainage basin of the Bay, surrounded mostly by agricultural or forested
sewer connections, and shoreline development), and atmospheric deposition
are the pollution sources contributing to the use impairments. The industrial operations discharging treated effluent directly to the Bay of Quinte tributaries include Domtar Packaging and Sonoco on the Trent River, General Motors and Outboard Marine in Peterborough, and Strathcona Papers on the Napanee River.
RAP Report Status
* The Bay of Quinte RAP Stage 2 Report was submitted to the federal,
provincial, municipal governments, the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte
(Tyendinaga), and local municipalities in September 1993.
* The RAP Team and PAC received the formal provincial response in July
1995, and the formal federal response in August of the same year. The
complete Stage 2 Report is scheduled to be transmitted to the IJC in
1997 pending completion of the Stage 2 Implementation Annex.
* The PAC has been a highly motivating factor in sustaining momentum
throughout the RAP process. It will continue as an Implementation
Advisory Committee (BQ-RAP/IAC) and seek private resources as a
non-profit, incorporated body called the Quinte Watershed Cleanup Inc.
To do so, BQ-RAP/IAC began in March 1996 to restructure, developing a
comprehensive Business Plan, adopting Bylaws for the incorporated
body, and outlining its new fund raising strategy in its second annual
progress report. Most recently, the BQ-RAP/IAC story was presented by
Chair David Patterson at the "Funding Strategies for Restoration of
Areas of Concern in the Great Lakes Basin" conference at Wingspread,
Racine, Wisconsin, U.S.A. The conference, sponsored by the
International Joint Commission and The Johnson Foundation, provided
BQ-RAP/IAC with a forum to discuss recent BQ-RAP/IAC actions, provide
positioning for a major fund-raising event and highlight QRAP
modelling initiatives and video productions.
* In addition to its restructuring and incorporating actions, BQ-RAP/IAC
is also, cooperatively and jointly with QRAP, supporting the launch of
the comprehensive QRAP Environmental Education Manual and preparing a
The Detroit River is a 51km international connecting channel linking Lake
St.Clair to Lake Erie. Nine beneficial use impairments have been identified
in the Detroit River. The known causes of impairments include urban and industrial development in the watershed, bacteria, PCBs, PAHs, metals, and oils and greases. Combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and municipal and industrial discharges are major sources of contaminants within the Area of Concern (AOC). Stormwater runoff and tributaries in Michigan are also major sources of contaminants. Additional environmental concerns include exotic species, changes in the fish community structure, and reductions in wildlife populations.
RAP Report Status
* The Stage 2 RAP is being developed cooperatively with Michigan to
produce a document that will meet both the requirements for biennial
reporting for Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, and the
requirements of a Stage 2 document for COA. The first such document
was submitted to the IJC in August 1996.
* In November 1996, the Detroit River Area of Concern was the first of a
new series of site visits to be undertaken by the IJC Commissioners to
assess progress and evaluate challenges to restoring beneficial uses.
The Commissioners met with several stakeholder groups and will
conclude their assessment in the winter of 1996.
* Currently, there is no Detroit River RAP Coordinator position in the
Ministry of Environment and Energy. There is a contact person,
however, in MOEE's Windsor District Office.
* The membership of the Binational Public Advisory Council (BPAC) was
increased during Stage 2 to 50 members, 25 from each of Ontario and
Michigan. RAP TEAM and BPAC meetings have been held jointly using a
facilitator at key points in the Stage 2 process (goals setting,
document review, and recommendation prioritization).
* The IJC review of the Stage 1 Document released in May, 1992 agreed
with and supported the COA qualifiers that dealt with; fish and
wildlife habitat, bird or animal deformities, and sources of
reduce non-point sources of pollution, reduce soil erosion, monitor
water quality, and improve wildlife habitat.
Little River and Turkey Creek Demonstration of Stormwater Ponds and
Wetlands
This is a stormwater project aimed at improving fish and wildlife
habitat. Activities include, excavation of stormwater retention ponds,
planting almost 40 ha of wetland vegetation, monitoring water quality,
signage and promotion, and programs for community involvement.
Publications
1. Detroit River Remedial Action Plan - Stage 1 - June 1991.
2. Newsletters (Issues #1-#5); #5 - Spring, 1992.
3. Detroit River AOC Technical Options Study Report - April 1993.
4. Environmental Assessment of Detroit River Sediments and Benthic
Macroinvertebrate Communities 1991 - June 1993.
Publications
1. Detroit River Remedial Action Plan - Stage 1 - June 1991.
2. Newsletters (Issues #1-#5); #5 - Spring, 1992.
3. Detroit River AOC Technical Options Study Report - April 1993.
4. Environmental Assessment of Detroit River Sediments and Benthic
Macroinvertebrate Communities 1991 - June 1993.
une 1993.
1993.
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hamilton harbour
&Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan
Background
Hamilton Harbour lies at the western edge of Lake Ontario and its 500 km2
watershed is drained by three main tributaries (Grindstone, Red Hill and Spencer Creeks). Six municipalities and a population of over half a million reside in the watershed. Canals and in-filling of twenty-five per cent of the original bay have eliminated seventy-five per cent of the original wetlands, protected inlets and shallow areas. The Niagara Escarpment and Cootes Paradise are two prominent natural features in the area. On the southern shores, a deep-water port supports the largest concentration of iron and steel industries in Canada, while the upper reaches of the watershed have a mixture of rural and urban land uses. Major causes of impairments include: point and non-point source pollution; contaminated sediments; combined sewer overflows; loss of shoreline access; degradation or loss of fish and wildlife habitat.
RAP Report Status
The RAP Stage 2 Report (The Plan) was formally submitted to the federal and provincial governments in February of 1993.
Formal responses from the federal and provincial governments were issued in November of 1994. These were appended to the Stage 2 Report in an Implementation Annex with a foreword highlighting evidence of strong private-sector commitments to the plan. The combined documentation (Stage 2 Report and Implementation Annex) was forwarded to the International Joint Commission for review and comment in early 1996.
In December of 1995, a RAP Sediment Remediation Strategy was published, constituting the first Update to the Stage 2 Report.
In 1997, the International Joint Commission initiated a site assessment of the Hamilton Harbour RAP.
Community Perspectives
The Bay Area Restoration Council (BARC) is the organization through which public involvement in the Hamilton Harbour RAP is facilitated. This group has a membership of 175 people (1997). General membership meetings are held quarterly and complemented by an annual workshop and annual general meeting. BARC's main purpose as stated in its articles of incorporation is "the promoting, monitoring and assessing of the implementation of plans for the environmental protection and restoration of Hamilton Harbour as outlined in the Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan". BARC and the RAP Co-ordination office issue a joint newsletter four times per year reporting on their activities and community issues of interest.
BARC issues an annual report entitled "Toward Safe Harbours" which describes the status of implementation, commends good work and recommends improvements in areas where it considers these to be necessary.
BARC also facilitates volunteer involvement in implementation projects such as the marsh restoration at Cootes Paradise; the watershed stewardship project; the yellow-fish road project and others.
Implementors of specific projects also make efforts to ensure public awareness and involvement in their work. For example, McMaster University obtained research funds from a federal granting agency to focus the work of 31 professors and 85 students on Eco-Research supporting the RAP, and as part of this project held frequent seminars to which members of BARC and the public were invited. The Royal Botanical Gardens involves its members in marsh restoration work and has conducted a fund-raising campaign to raise over $2 million from the community for this purpose.
Implementation Outlook
Progress to date - 1997
Estimated costs for implementing the RAP, at the low end of the range of cost estimates, are in the order of $800 to $900 million, with the majority of the costs falling upon municipalities for combined sewer overflow control and sewage treatment upgrading. This total includes both capital costs and increases in operating costs associated with more stringent effluent criteria for municipalities; capital costs for habitat restoration and sediment remediation; and monitoring, research and management costs.
In the period from 1970 to 1990, an estimated $600 million was spent (in 1990 dollars) to restore the harbour. If the RAP-estimated $800 million expenditure were to be spread over the period between 1990 and 2010, it would represent an increase in expenditure of about 1/3 of the amount spent over the previous 20-year period.
Since 1990, about $20 million has been spent on habitat restoration, resulting in the creation of new habitat islands; submerged habitat; trails and viewing stations at five locations around the harbour and in Cootes Paradise marsh. The marsh restoration is a key to this project. In 1997 the water clarity in the marsh improved dramatically due to successful Carp exclusion, a new combined sewer overflow tank upstream, and other factors. This resulted in an "explosion" of vegetation, a sign of progress which was very encouraging to the many volunteers and staff working on that project.
About $53 million has been spent by Hamilton-Wentworth Region to remediate combined sewer overflows by building tanks to hold back excess flow. Five tanks have been built (of a total of 12 tanks and one tunnel needed to complete the CSO network) and the Region estimates a 45% reduction in the volume of CSO's as a result of this work. Beaches were opened in 1993 for the first time in 50 years in the West end at Bayfront Park, largely as a result of the combined sewer overflow tanks upstream.
Halton Region is in the process of optimizing its Skyway Sewage Treatment Plant which discharges into the Harbour with the result that effluent quality meets RAP initial targets fairly reliably. This has meant additional sludge production, and increased operating costs of $300 to $500K per year to haul, store and manage sludge.
Over $4 million has been spent on experimental sediment remediation technologies and preparatory work for a sediment removal and treatment project near Randle Reef adjacent to the Stelco docks.
Industry estimates expenditures exceeding $76 million since 1990 for projects that reduce contaminant inputs into Hamilton Harbour.
Conservation Authorities and Municipalities around the harbour are preparing watershed management plans for the Spencer, Red Hill and Grindstone Creeks at costs exceeding $1.4 million in total. This will assist the RAP stakeholders in developing a strategy to influence land-use planning so that it supports RAP goals.
Public access to the harbour shoreline has increased from about 2% in 1986 to about 16% in 1997, with the goal of ultimately reaching 25%. Much of this is due to the creation of Bayfront Park by the City of Hamilton at a cost of over $2 million to the City and $7 million to MOE for soil remediation.
Monitoring, research and management in support of all harbour-related issues by all parties can be estimated at roughly $1 million per year.
As of 1997, the sum of total expenditures for all parties since 1990 is estimated at more than $175 million.
Challenges:
Despite progress as noted above, total discharges to the harbour of phosphorus, ammonia and suspended solids remain at levels that are still not meeting RAP initial targets. The primary implementation focus is therefore shifting toward sources of these substances, and the largest and most manageable source is the Woodward Avenue sewage treatment plant. Efforts to sustain the level of spending that will be required to optimize this plant are expected to be the focus of RAP efforts in the late 1990's.
Sediment remediation remains a very high priority, with the proposed removal and treatment of 20,000 cubic metres of contaminated sediment considered essential to de-listing and remediating the area. Action at this site in 1998 is now proposed by all parties, but there remain some financial and technical issues still to resolve.
Further Information:
A "Projects and Studies Guide" is updated every two years by the RAP office. This was complemented in 1995 by a GIS data base showing all monitoring, surveillance and research related to the RAP which was under way at the time in the watershed. The data base is available on disk through the RAP office.
Partners
Environment Canada
Ontario Ministry of Environment & Energy
Regional Municipality of Hamilton-Wentworth
Regional Municipality of Halton
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
City of Burlington
City of Hamilton
Halton Region Conservation Authority
Hamilton Region Conservation Authority
Hamilton Harbour Commission
Stelco
Dofasco
Royal Botanical Gardens
McMaster University
Bay Area Restoration Council (BARC)
note: BARC has 175 members including boat clubs, naturalists, environmental groups, educational groups and ratepayers groups
Publications
1.Stage 1 Report: Remedial Action Plan for Harbour Environmental Conditions and Problem Definition. March 1989.
2.Remedial Action Plan for Harbour. Goals, Problems and Options. Discussion Document. March 1988.
3.Draft Preferred Options Report for Harbour. 1988.
4.The Remedial Action Plan (RAP) for Harbour - Stage 2A. July 1991.
5.Draft Stage 2A Report for Public Consultation. January 1992.
6.Report on the Public Consultation for the Stage 2A Report. April 1992.
7.Final Stage 2 Report (to COA RAP Steering Committee). November 1992.
8.Second Edition of the Stage 1 Report "Environmental Conditions and Problem Definition". October 1992.
9.The 1994 Projects and Studies Guide update.
10.Stage 2: Annex A "Formal Implementation Commitments" (Governments of Canada and Ontario). March 1995.
11.Remedial Action Plan for Hamilton Harbour - 1995 Update to the HHRAP Stage 2 Report "Contaminated Sediment in Hamilton Harbour". December 1995.
websites: www.cciw.ca/glimr/raps
www.cciw.ca/glimr/barc
Life Sciences Building
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON
L8S 4K1
ph: (905)525-9140 ext. 27405
fax: (905)522-6066
e-mail: barc@mcmaster.ca
website: www.cciw.ca/glimr/barc
rea Restoration Council
Life Sciences Building
McMaster University
Hamilton, ON
L8S 4K1
ph: (905)525-9140 ext. 27405
fax: (905)522-6066
e-mail: barc@mcmaster.ca
website: www.cciw.ca/glimr/barc
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jackfish bay
Jackfish Bay Remedial Action Plan
Background
Jackfish Bay is located along the north shore of Lake Superior,
approximately 250 km northeast of Thunder Bay and covers a surface area of
approximately 6.4 km2. The Area of Concern consists of the 14 km reach of
Blackbird Creek between the Kimberly-Clark Canada Inc. pulp mill and
Jackfish Bay, including Lake A, Moberly Lake, and Jackfish Bay itself.
Blackbird Creek has received the wastewater discharge from the mill since
1948, and both Lake A and Moberly Lake have experienced significant in
filling with wood fiber and other solids. Kimberly-Clark effluent,
* The RAP is well known and has considerable public support in the area.
Implementation Outlook
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Rehabilitation and Restoration
Lake Trout Spawning Habitat Assessment/Restoration
Area residents and local MNR staff have indicated that prior to being
impacted by the effluent of Kimberly-Clark, Jackfish Bay provided
several areas of quality lake trout spawning habitat. Kimberly-Clark
has improved effluent quality and is presently proposing a habitat
assessment, after which remediation strategies to rehabilitate
degraded lake trout will be considered. A recent survey has indicated
that habitat is not a limiting factor to fish populations in Jackfish
Bay.
Modelling and Research
Contaminant Uptake by Aquatic Vegetation
In support of identifying options suitability, Lakehead University has
been studying contaminant uptake in aquatic vegetation established in
sediments taken from Lake C. One of the options identified for Lake C
involves the establishment of aquatic vegetation to stabilize
sediment. This research is now complete and has found that flora can
make some contaminants available to the food chain, at least to a
limited extent.
Industry
Kimberly-Clark
Compliance with the 1995 AOX requirement of 1.5 kg/tonne air dried
pulp is marginal. It is estimated that the mill will have to spend up
to $17.3 million in order to comply with the AOX limits.
Lake 'A' Berm Repair
Recently, a berm diverting mill effluent away from Lake A was
breached, allowing effluent to re-enter the lake. Kimberly-Clark has
repaired this berm and has removed an old barge that was previously
used for dredging the area.
Public Education
Innovative Ecosystem Monitoring
Monitoring to determine effectiveness of remedial actions is costly,
is often abandoned in times of constraint, is focused upon action to
restore localized, site specific impairments, and usually does not
address ecosystem response to rehabilitation actions. An exception is
the Lake Superior LakeWatch program which is cost-effective,
integrative, public-supported, and conducted by volunteers.
The proposed candidates for an ecosystem data base include ecosystem
based measures (eg. number of song birds, arrival date of loons, catch
from fishing derbies) which also respond to local remediation.
Assessment at AOCs commonly measure finite parameters (eg.
concentration of PAHs, sediment properties). Proposed monitoring is
inclusive and uses programs, interest, and expertise developed in
public clubs, groups, and schools. This program will provide
effective, low cost monitoring because in-place programs will be
utilized. Effort will be directed at screening candidate measures,
organizing public groups and ecosystem monitoring programs in-place,
and creating a five-AOC, Lake Superior data base.
Publications
Published:
1. Jackfish Bay Remedial Action Plan Stage 1 Report: Environmental
Conditions and Problem Definition. October 1991.
2. RAP Report #12-18. Bulletins prepared January - August 1992.
3. Summary Newsletter of the North Shore Lake Superior RAPs. October
1993.
4. Tech. Report # 17. North Shore of Lake Superior RAP Public Involvement
Programs: A Review. October 1993.
5. Jackfish Bay RAP Options Discussion Paper (draft).
cussion Paper (draft).
Problem Definition. October 1991.
2. RAP Report #12-18. Bulletins prepared January - August 1992.
3. Summary Newsletter of the North Shore Lake Superior RAPs. October
1993.
4. Tech. Report # 17. North Shore of Lake Superior RAP Public Involvement
Programs: A Review. October 1993.
5. Jackfish Bay RAP Options Discussion Paper (draft).
draft).
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metro toronto
@Metro Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan
Background
The Metro Toronto and Region RAP (MTR RAP) contains six major watersheds - including the Humber, Don, and Rouge Rivers, and the waterfront. With over three million people in an area of about 2000 square kilometres, the greatest challenge in the area is urbanization. Extensive urbanization and continued growth pressures in the area have contributed to the use impairments. Polluted stormwater runoff from urban and rural sources, overflows of combined sewage and sewage treatment plant
discharges, are all major concerns. Fish and wildlife habitat needs to be
protected and restored.
RAP Status
* The Metro Toronto and Region RAP Stage 2A Report (Clean Waters, Clear
Choices) was completed in May 1994. The provincial response was
transmitted to the PAC Chairs in July 1996. Response from the federal
government is pending. Local and regional municipalities and other
partners are being asked to respond to the Stage 2A document in order
that the Implementation Annex (Stage 2B) can be completed.
* The MTR RAP is currently developing a new organizational structure in
order to assist in implementation of the plan. A workshop was convened
to facilitate this transition on February 8, 1996. Some 56
representatives of an extended Metro RAP Team met to agree on an
optimal implementation structure. The role of MOEE and Environment
Canada will evolve from developing the plan to being implementation
partners. The Metro Toronto Region Conservation Authority (MTRCA) and
the Waterfront Regeneration Trust (WRT) will share RAP leadership
responsibilities. Both MTRCA and WRT are community based agencies
and offer expertise in facilitating action, multi-agency coordination and
community empowerment in watershed management.
* The local conservation authority is working with citizens and agencies
to develop plans that will help implement the RAP within the Don,
* The MTR RAP Public Advisory Committee (PAC) unveiled a new RAP logo.
A logo contest attracted some 200 entries for a design which best
captured the implementation spirit of MTR RAP's recommendations as
outlined in Clean Waters, Clear Choices.
* The major concern of the PAC continues to be implementation of the RAP
recommendations and the organizational restructuring of the MTR RAP
process to facilitate this objective.
* In 1995, the PAC began meeting with the public environmental
committees in the 22 regional and local municipalities on its own
initiative. These joint meetings have been productive in exchanging
information about the RAP and each municipality's contribution to its
implementation. In the process, new public interest has been raised.
* MTR RAP's main outreach project was "Celebrate Your Watershed!"
Week, May 5 to 11, 1996, in partnership with the Metropolitan Toronto and
Region Conservation Authority (MTRCA), and 30 other private/public
agencies including many companies and municipalities. The partnerships
made it a success. Over 70 events were scheduled on all nine
watersheds in the MTRCA area. 100,000 calendars of events were
distributed and some 4,000 people participated directly during the
Week in 1995. This year the Week promises to be even bigger.
* In 1996, the PAC initiated an environmental showcase/panel discussion
on the future of the Metro Toronto and Region's ecosystem.
* As always, the PAC remains vigilant. It keeps abreast of development
issues in this Area of Concern (AOC) and when necessary, intervenes to
remind authorities of the MTR RAP principles, objectives, and
recommendations. It is also working with the MTR RAP staff in
continuing to develop a five-year workplan for implementation.
Implementation Outlook
CSO (Combined Sewer Overflow)
CSO Characterization - Metro Waterfront (1995-):
Analysis of CSO and stormwater discharges along the Metro Waterfront
will assist in the development of methods to treat or control these
pollution sources.
High Rate CSO Treatment Demonstration - Scarborough (1993-97):
A mobile "vortex separator" designed to treat CSO is being
demonstrated in Scarborough. In the separator, combined sewage is
swirled and polluted particles are separated from the cleaner water.
Western Beaches Tunnel - City of Toronto (1996-):
The Ministry of Environment and Energy has approved and is helping
fund a City of Toronto proposal for a sewage storage tunnel designed
to improve water quality of the western beaches for beneficial uses
such as swimming and other recreational activities. The 4 km project
will divert polluted stormwater and sewage from entering the lake.
Dirty overflow water will be stored in settling tanks and settled
sludge will be transported to the Ashbridges Bay sewage treatment
plant.
Stormwater
Marieta Payne Regeneration Project - Don River (1995-):
Marieta Payne Park contains an existing stormwater management pond
which is now considered to be too small to improve water quality.
Actions will be taken to address water quality concerns, improve
aquatic and terrestrial habitat, and improve community awareness of
watershed issues.
Humber River Stormwater Clean-up by Restored Urban Biosystems (SCRUB):
SCRUB will promote community involvement in pollution prevention and
ecological restoration in order to minimize the amount of polluted
stormwater runoff.
Lake Wilcox - Upper Humber (1996- ):
The Town of Richmond Hill has completed a Lake Remediation Strategy to
protect the lake and natural environment around the lake. Key elements
include drainage improvements, treatment of bottom waters, shoreline
naturalization, and habitat creation.
Stormwater Assessment and Maintenance Performance (SWAMP):
This is a program for monitoring stormwater facilities and sharing the
results among other agencies and organizations.
Roadside Ditches - Throughout (1995-97):
This project is a study to evaluate the environmental, engineering,
social, and economic factors associated with the use of roadside
ditches and other related practices. The study will recommend an
evaluation procedure for determining the appropriate application of
the conveyance system technique.
Sediment Cleanup
Sediment Survey - Toronto Waterfront (1995-):
A sediment survey is underway to determine areas requiring clean-up in
the Toronto Harbour. The survey will delineate the physical, chemical,
and biological conditions associated with the sediments.
Fish and Wildlife Rehabilitation and Restoration
Waterfront
Coastal Wetland Rehabilitation - Metro Waterfront (1995-):
Detailed wetland rehabilitation plans will be developed in order to
coordinate the restoration of these degraded habitat sites along the
waterfront.
Embayment C - Tommy Thompson Park (1996-):
A small portion of Embayment C at Tommy Thompson Park was proposed
for wetland habitat creation in the 1992 Master Plan. This sheltered bay
adjacent to the Aquatic Park Sailing Club will be the focus of habitat
creation in the form of shoreline diversification, wetland planting
nodes, as well as the provision of in-water structures such as shoals,
reefs, and woody structures.
Terrestrial Habitat Enhancement - Tommy Thompson Park (1996-):
This project will focus on the use of conservation design principles
and will attempt to identify and enhance habitat characteristics and
features that may be present in these areas as a result of prior
lakefilling and grading. Specific efforts will be directed toward
improving habitat for migratory shorebirds, significant colonial
waterbirds such as common terns, and local reptiles and amphibians.
Rouge
Milne Dam Fishway - Rouge (1996-98):
A fishway around the Milne Dam will link fish spawning and nursery
areas to Lake Ontario.
Forested Watersheds Coordination and Monitoring - Rouge River (1994):
Floodplain and stream bank vegetation were mapped in the Rouge
watershed in order to identify areas for future planting. Mapping is
starting for the Humber watershed with support from the Great Lakes
Cleanup Fund.
Too Good Pond - Rouge River (1995 - 98):
The purposes of this project are to maintain an existing provincially
significant wetland, provide for fish passage around an instream
barrier, and to provide an off-line pond for community recreational
use.
Mud Creek Restoration & Wetland - Don Brickworks (1995-):
As part of the restoration of a former Brickworks site, a wetland will
be created using some water from a nearby creek which is currently
piped. The creek will be rehabilitated to enhance water quality and
contribute to the recreational and educational value of the Brickworks
site.
Concept Sites - Don Watershed (1995-):
As part of their original plan for cleaning up the Don, six "concept
sites" (including Rupert's Pond, Terraview-Willowfield and Harding
Park) were developed. Site plans generally combine improvements in
water quality, wildlife habitat, and community awareness and
involvement. Ten additional concept site plans will be developed in
order to demonstrate regeneration at a local level.
Terraview-Willowfield - Scarborough (1996-98):
This headwaters park in the City of Scarborough can become a more
natural ecosystem. Plans include disconnecting roof leaders,
naturalizing the stream, planting upland areas, and using the project
as a living classroom for nearby schools. This area is a Don Watershed
"concept site."
Rupert's Pond - Maple (1995-):
A "concept site" plan was developed at this location in order to
demonstrate regeneration of the Don River. Plans propose changes to
the existing water quality control pond, the stream, and the valley
lands at this site.
Pottery Road Instream Barriers - Don River (1996-):
Two existing weirs near Pottery Road will be redesigned to allow fish
passage and increased access to spawning habitat and about 10 km of
stream.
Chester Springs Wetland - Lower Don Lands (1995-):
A wetland project being constructed in the Lower Don will establish a
wetland in an urban environment. Restoration will include: planting
native trees, shrubs, and aquatic plants wildflowers; creating new
ponds; and providing different habitats for plants and animals.
Bartley Smith Greenway (EcoPark) - Vaughan (1995-):
A section of the Upper West Don is to be restored to wetlands,
forests, and meadows. The Greenway will include four new wetlands as
well as 14 km of trails.
Humber
Redside Dace Habitat - Purpleville Creek (1995-):
Six and one-half km of riparian habitat is to be restored in order to
provide fish habitat for the redside dace. Habitat is also to be
created for a regionally rare bird, the wild turkey.
Grenadier Pond Shoreline Rehabilitation - Toronto (1995-):
Approximately 1 ha of wetland habitat will be created, along with 100m
of riparian habitat along the shoreline, to reduce nutrient loading.
Valley and Stream Corridor Rehabilitation - Main Humber River (1995-):
Many projects are to be carried out including planting of riparian
habitat, controlling livestock access to streams, and creation of
brook trout habitat.
Highland
Fish Management Plan - Highland Creek (1996-):
Plans are underway to develop a fisheries management plan for Highland
Creek. The Highland Creek Fisheries Management Plan will be similar to
the one done for the Humber River.
Agriculture
Metro Rural Clean Water Program - Upper Humber (1994-99):
This program is designed to reduce nutrient and bacterial loadings to
the Great Lakes from rural non-point sources. Technical assistance and
financial assistance are available for rural residents carrying out
projects such as: septic system repairs, restriction of livestock from
watercourses, or milkhouse washwater disposal systems.
Public Education
Health Network - Throughout (1995-):
Health and Welfare Canada is establishing a network of health
officials to help spread information on human health and the Great
Lakes ecosystem.
Don Challenge - Don Watershed (1995-):
The Don Watershed Council - a group dedicated to restoration of the
Don watershed - will challenge groups, individuals, businesses, and
agencies to carry out activities to restore the watershed.
Storm Drain Marking/Yellow Fish Road - Throughout (1993-):
The Metro Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (MTRCA) assists
groups wanting to paint fish symbols next to roadside storm drains.
The fish painting is part of an education program designed to teach
kids and the community not to pour hazardous material (eg. paints,
oils) down storm drains.
Modelling and Research
Receiving Water Study - Metro Waterfront (1995-):
A three-dimensional model was applied to the Toronto waterfront for
one month simulations of E. coli and total phosphorous. The
simulations were carried out using existing and future conditions for
comparison. The results illustrated that the remedial plan adopted in
the future conditions could significantly decrease the concentrations
of E. coli and total phosphorous in the nearshore.
Inland Lakes Assessment (1995-):
A survey of several inland lakes is being carried out to determine
possible actions for remediation.
Fish and Wildlife Monitoring
Watershed Atlas - Humber Watershed (1995-):
This report of environmental conditions, history, and opportunities
for the Humber Watershed will be used (initially) by the Humber
Watershed Task Force. The task force consists of elected
representatives, agency staff, and watershed residents working
together to regenerate the Humber Watershed.
Watershed Indicator Program - Throughout (1995-):
Fish communities and aquatic habitat across the watersheds will be
assessed. The data will be used in fisheries management plans to help
set targets and to determine the effective indicators of ecosystem
health.
Publications
1. Stage 1: Environmental Conditions and Problem Definition. 1988.
(Executive Summary available in English and French)
2. Draft Discussion Paper on Remedial Options. 1990. (Executive Summary
available in English and French)
3. Strategies for Restoring our Waters. 1991. (Also available in French)
4. Clean Waters, Clear Choices: Recommendations for Action. 1994.
(Summary available in English and French)
5. Water Quality Improvement Projects. 1993.
6. A Path to Clean Waters. Actions for Ecosystem Protection and
Restoration. 1994.
7. A Path to Clean Waters. Actions for Ecosystem Protection and
Restoration. 1996.
Newsletters
1. Clean Water News (formerly Metro Toronto Remedial Action Plan)
o Issues #5 - #8 available in English or French
o Issues #1 - #4 available in English only
Factsheets
1. Metro Toronto & Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP)(Also available in
French)
2. After You Flush. (sewage treatment)
3. How Clean is Stormwater Runoff?
4. Metro Toronto and Region RAP: How You Can Help the Environment
5. A Class Act for Water (projects for educators)
6. What is Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO)?
7. Great Lakes Remedial Action Plan Status
on Plan Status
sletters
1. Clean Water News (formerly Metro Toronto Remedial Action Plan)
o Issues #5 - #8 available in English or French
o Issues #1 - #4 available in English only
Factsheets
1. Metro Toronto & Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP)(Also available in
French)
2. After You Flush... (sewage treatment)
3. How Clean is Stormwater Runoff?
4. Metro Toronto and Region RAP: How You Can Help the Environment
5. A Class Act for Water (projects for educators)
6. What is Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO)?
7. Great Lakes Remedial Action Plan Status
lan Status
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niagara river
BB=Niagara River Remedial Action Plan
Background
The Niagara River is the connecting channel between Lake Erie and Lake
Ontario. The Area of Concern (AOC) extends the entire 58 km of the Niagara
River and includes the Welland River drainage basin. Major problems include
sedimentation and toxic contaminants (largely originating from American
sources). The rivers in the Area of Concern have multiple uses, including
energy generation, recreation/tourism, industry and drinking water. The heavy concentration of industry located on the United States side remains the largest contributor to use impairments. In Ontario, 16 municipal and industrial point sources discharge heavy metals, priority toxic pollutants, and nutrients to the Niagara River and its tributaries. Non-point sources include urban and rural runoff, combined sewer overflows, and landfills.
At the insistence of New York State, separate RAPs are being developed on
the Canadian and United States sides of the Niagara River.
RAP Status
* The PAC hosted the formal presentation of the Stage 2 Recommended RAP
Plan to the federal and provincial Ministers at a kickoff event on
June 6, 1995. The RAP Team and PAC received the federal response at
the PAC's June 1996 meeting, and received the provincial response in
* The RAP is well known and has considerable public support in the area.
Implementation Outlook
The RAP Team and PAC have identified a variety of options for addressing
mercury contaminated sediments in the AOC. The recently completed modelling study will help to evaluate the effectiveness of selected options. As part of the Stage 2 Report, the costs of the most feasible options will be
weighed against the environmental benefits and a remediation strategy will
be recommended.
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Rehabilitation and Restoration
Marathon Waterfront Development
A presentation was made to the Marathon Waterfront Development
Committee in 1994 to encourage the addition of habitat features to the
proposed marina. The suggested incorporation of these features was
well received, and future initiatives to enhance fish and wildlife
habitat are anticipated.
Industry
The James River mill has completed construction of the secondary
treatment system and the system is fully operational.
Public Education
Innovative Ecosystem Monitoring
Monitoring to determine effectiveness of remedial actions is costly,
is often abandoned in times of constraint, is focused upon action to
restore localized, site specific impairments and usually does not
address ecosystem response to rehabilitation actions. An exception is
the Lake Superior LakeWatch program which is cost-effective,
integrative, public-supported, and conducted by volunteers.
The proposed candidates for an ecosystem data base include ecosystem
based measures (eg. number of song birds, arrival date of loons, catch
from fishing derbies) which also respond to local remediation.
Assessment at AOCs commonly measure finite parameters (eg.
concentration of PAHs, sediment properties). Proposed monitoring is
inclusive and uses programs, interest, and expertise developed in
public clubs, groups, and schools. This program will provide
effective, low cost monitoring because in-place programs will be
utilized. Effort will be directed at screening candidate measures,
organizing public groups and ecosystem monitoring programs in-place,
and creating a five-AOC, Lake Superior data base.
Publications
Published:
1. Peninsula Harbour Remedial Action Plan Stage 1 Report: Environmental
Conditions and Problem Definition. October 1991.
2. RAP Report #12-18. Bulletins prepared January - August 1992.
3. Summary Newsletter of the North Shore Lake Superior RAPs. October
Port Hope Harbour is located at the mouth of the Ganaraska River on the
north shore of Lake Ontario approximately 100 km east of Toronto.
Approximately 90,000 km3 of sediments located in the turning basin and west slip areas of Port Hope Harbour are contaminated with uranium and thorium series radionuclides, heavy metals, and PCBs. Significant sediment
contamination is confined to the turning basin and west slip of the
harbour. The contamination of the harbour sediments is the result of past
waste management practices in the refining and processing of uranium and
radium during the 1930s and 1940s. Due to the radionuclide content and
history of the contaminated sediment, the sediment in the turning basin and
west slip has been classified as low-level historic radioactive waste for
which the federal government assumes responsibility. The use impairment
associated with the in-situ contaminant problem is the use of the turning
basin as a boat mooring facility by the Port Hope Yacht Club. Contamination
of turning basin sediments have caused a cessation of maintenance dredging
in this area. Continued sedimentation will in time render the turning basin
inoperative as a boat mooring facility if dredging is not resumed.
There is currently no Remedial Action Plan (RAP) Coordinator for the Port
Hope Harbour Area of Concern (AOC).
RAP Report Status
* The Stage 1 Report was transmitted to the IJC in January 1990.
* The development phase of Stage 2 is currently on hold. The Stage 2
process for this AOC will be guided by the process established by the
Siting Task Force. The RAP Team will review the remedial options
proposed by the Siting Task Force Community Liaison Group (CLG) and
incorporate those that meet IJC/RAP objectives into the Stage 2
report.
* Any final agreement on clean-up actions will be guided by the overall
Port Hope clean-up effort.
Community Perspectives
* The local public looks for reassurance that radionuclides are not
affecting fish or town water supplies. Studies of fish flesh and
regular water testing confirm that there is no exceedence of standards
and objectives.
* A Siting Task Force was established in 1987 by the federal Minister of
Natural Resources. The central objective of the Task Force is the
establishment of a disposal facility in Ontario for existing and
historic radioactive waste stored in the Port Hope area (including
Port Hope Harbour sediments).
* As a result of the Task Force's voluntary siting process, the Town of
Deep River and the Task Force developed a community
agreement-in-principle which outlined the terms of acceptance and
conditions under which the disposal facility would be built.
Implementation Outlook
* Federal Cabinet approval is required prior to proceeding to the next
stages of the development of the low-level radioactive waste facility.
* Any proposed facility must also be licensed by the Atomic Energy
Control Board and is subject to the Canadian Environmental Assessment
Act.
* Port Hope Town Council is looking at the possibility of a new harbour
as part of waterfront re-development. The Town's Waterfront Committee
has been advised that if federal funding is involved in any such
development, it will be subject to an Environmental Assessment under
the former EARP or the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and may
not necessarily be linked to the clean-up of the existing harbour.
1. Port Hope Harbour Remedial Action Plan Stage 1: Environmental
Conditions and Problem Definition. January 1990.
2. Suspended Sediment Discharges to Port Hope Harbour During the Spring
of 1990. January 1992.
3. Port Hope Socio-Economic Profile. January 1, 1993.
4. Port Hope Harbour Fact Sheets - Released August 1993.
5. Socio-Economic Fact Sheet - Released January 1994.
To Be Published:
* Discussion Paper - Institutional Arrangements for Remediation of Port
Hope Harbour - on hold
on hold
severn sound
WSevern Sound Remedial Action Plan
Background
The Severn Sound Area of Concern (AOC) is located in southeastern Georgian
Bay and includes Penetang, Midland, Hog, Sturgeon, and Matchedash Bays with significant population centres in Midland and Penetanguishene. The
watershed covers an area of 1,000 km2. The primary problems in the area are eutrophication, excessive algal production, and high phosphorus levels as a result of sewage treatment plant (STP) inputs, agricultural activities,
shoreline development, and other sources. This problem is especially
evident in the constricted embayments on the south shore of the Sound.
Additional concerns include shifts in fish communities and habitat loss.
Industrial and municipal point sources, long-range atmospheric deposition, agricultural runoff, and in-place pollutants all contribute to the use impairments.
RAP Status
* The Severn Sound RAP Stage 2 Document was submitted to the RAP
Steering Committee in January 1993 for review and approval, and was
submitted to the federal and provincial governments in April 1993. The
provincial government provided its formal response and commitments to
the Recommended Plan in February 1995. The federal government's
response was provided in September 1995. The RAP plans to complete the
Implementation Annex for submission of the complete Stage 2 Document
* A unique partnership among the RAP Team, PAC, and the Wye Marsh
Wildlife Centre (an environmental non-profit organization) has served
as a catalyst in building local support for the RAP and sustaining
local multi-stakeholder involvement.
* The PAC has been active with local facilitation provided by the Wye
Marsh Wildlife Centre.
* The RAP receives regular local media coverage, particularly in
relation to implementation, local cleanup projects, and demonstration
programs. For example, newspaper articles "Mysteries of the Deep
Surface on Voyage to the Bottom of the Bay" (Free Press July 17/96),
"Cormorant Tracks" (Free Press, July 5/96), "Navy Ship Visits Midland
for Severn Sound Research" (The Observer, June 29/96), and "Navy
Targets the Sound" (Free Press, June 28/96), along with coverage by
CKVR Television, represent media interest in the 1996 Sediment Survey.
The new natural shorelines project was covered locally with "Funds for
Shore Cleanup" (The Mirror, March 3/96), "Severn RAP Initiates New
Shoreline Protection Project" (The Observer, April 27/96) and "Saving
the Shoreline" (Free Press, April 26/96). Spring activities with the
Penetang Bay cleanup and habitat restoration project were noted with
"Help Cleanup Waterfront" (Free Press April 12/96) and "Spring Cleanup
Time" (Free Press April 17/96). The presentation of the Midland
Chamber of Commerce 1995 Environmental Achievement Award to the RAP
Coordinator was covered by "Sherman Cleans-up Our Act" (The Mirror
Feb.25/96) and "Chamber Honors Businesses, Individuals" (Free Press
February 2/96).
* The RAP is promoted through attendance and displays at local fairs and
public events such as the Coldwater Rodeo , Midland Pro Bass
Tournament, Canada Day celebrations in Penetanguishene, the Penetang
Library Garden Tour, and the HMCS Cormorant tours in Midland, during
which approximately 3000 visitors to the ship viewed displays on
recent progress in RAP implementation.
* The agricultural community in Severn Sound is supportive of RAP
implementation. The RAP displays and information were most recently
taken to a two-day open house where landowners were able to discuss
potential projects with the rural non-point source control and
tributary rehabilitation project staff.
* Municipalities are directly involved in RAP implementation. Ongoing
discussions relate to sludge disposal practices, stormwater management
and incorporation of RAP principles into official plans. Four
municipalities have incorporated RAP concerns into the policy sections
of their Official Plans. Tay Township has passed an official plan
amendment that incorporates RAP concerns, goals and objectives into
the policies of their Official Plan.
Implementation Outlook
The vision is to restore environmental quality and to ensure continued
protection through implementing a legacy of wise stewardship of Severn
Sound and its tributaries. The responsibility for cleanup and protection of
environmental quality is shared by everyone. If implementation is to
succeed, the local community must see the RAP as a means of achieving their goals for restoring the area.
The Severn Sound Area of Concern includes ten municipalities with various
issues and agendas. Some communities are urban and others rural; some have shoreline and others are distant from the water body. The large population of seasonal residents and tourists has a major impact on the area. The full-time presence of the RAP Coordinator in the Implementation Office serves as a link to unite this diversity of people and places in a
collective awareness and sense of ownership of environmental problems and their solutions.
Projected capital costs for full implementation of the Severn Sound RAP
(excluding industry) is $90M (including sewage treatment upgrades $35.7M;
private shoreline septic system upgrades $3M; service extensions to private
systems $11.1M; stormwater control $35M; agricultural source controls
$4.1M; combined sewer overflow control $1.1). Under existing provincial
programs and funding formulae, the provincial share of these costs is
expected to be approximately $27M. Commitments totaling $33M for RAP
implementation have been made to date from all stakeholders.
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Rehabilitation and Restoration
Penetang Bay Shore Zone Cleanup and Habitat Restoration:
Monitoring of plant and animal communities in the newly-restored
nearshore and wetland habitat areas will establish project
effectiveness. Community groups (science classes, naturalist clubs)
have shown an interest in participating in the monitoring plan.
Additional planting and channel rehabilitation should take place in
late summer/fall of 1996.
Tributary Rehabilitation Project:
Continuation of this project will involve cleanup of stream beds,
stabilizing banks, fencing to restrict livestock access, planting of
trees by volunteer groups, and the monitoring of sites after projects
have been implemented. Approximately half of the stream length in the
watershed known to have cattle access, still needs remediation.
Natural Shorelines in Severn Sound:
The Natural Shorelines project exceeded its goal of planting and
naturalization of 10% of the Penetang Bay shoreline in the first few
months of the project. The goal is to secure funding and partners to
extend the project into other Severn Sound area municipalities in
subsequent years.
Lead Shot Remediation:
The lead shot remediation project, initiated at the Wye Marsh Wildlife
Centre in 1994, has developed a prototype of an innovative technology
to sink lead shot beyond the zone of availability to waterfowl.
Development and pilot testing of the prototype technology was carried
out in the summer of 1996 with three test sites defined and tested.
Colonial Waterbird Nesting Survey:
This project proposes to continue observations of waterbird nests in
the Severn Sound vicinity (Watcher Islands). Implementation is being
planned for the five-year period from 95/96 until the year 2000 with
the support of various agencies.
Fish and Wildlife Monitoring
Habitat Restoration Plan:
This project proposes to test the natural heritage system approach to
develop a habitat restoration plan for land in the Severn Sound area.
Habitat and Wildlife Mapping:
This project proposes to undertake a mapping survey of Severn Sound
for the purpose of implementing the Fish Habitat Management Plan.
Activities will include consolidation of the shoreline fish habitat
inventory with a special fish habitat workshop. Fish and wildlife
monitoring is being planned for the five-year period from 1995/96
until the year 2000 .
Shoreline Landuse:
This project will involve water current studies, habitat management,
the continuation of existing work on the GIS (geographical information
system) database, through to the year 2000. The main objectives are to
provide mapping for reporting RAP implementation projects and for
tracking remedial actions.
Subwatershed Planning project:
This project proposes to incorporate the concepts of the MOEE/MNR
watershed planning documents and the RAP planning recommendations into planning procedures and Official Plans. Activities will include the
development of a pilot subwatershed plan for the Hog Creek watershed,
after which the method would be applied to other watersheds in Severn
Sound.
Sewage Treatment Plants
Upgrades:
The Township of Severn has completed a Class Environmental Assessment
(EA) on a sewage plant upgrade for the Coldwater STP. The Township of
Tay (now includes former Port McNicoll and Victoria Harbour) has
completed the Class EA process and is proceeding with plans for an
upgrade of the Port McNicoll sewage plant. Construction of a new
sewage plant for Port Severn began in 1996.
Pollution Control Plan:
The Severn Sound stormwater project will produce a report on existing
storm sewer catchments and a review of potential control/treatment
technologies. Project activities, including a planning level analysis
to decide on control and treatment options, and the measuring of wet
and dry weather flow quality at selected catchments to pinpoint
potential pollution sources, will be complete in early 1997.
Sewage Plant Optimization:
The main objective is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of
existing plant operations. Activities will include the analysis of
plant operation by technical experts in conjunction with plant staff
to reorient emphasis towards effluent-related plant performances, and
removal of ammonia and phosphorous from the eight sewage treatment
plants within the Severn Sound area.
Sludge and Septate Handling Strategy:
An intermunicipal Class EA on the development of a sludge and septate
handling strategy and facility for the North Simcoe area will address
the RAP recommendation to retain STP sludge during winter and spring
and to treat septate throughout the year.
Agriculture
Rural Non-Point Source Control Project
Potential sites for remediation projects, as identified in the SSRAP
Stage 2, include approximately 100 livestock access restriction
1. Report on the Penetang Bay Cleanup and Habitat Restoration Project
2. Report on the Severn Sound Groundwater Study
3. Report on the Severn Sound Stormwater Study
4. Report on the Severn Sound Currents and Quality Model
5. Water Quality Assessment of Honey Harbour Area, Severn Sound
6. Water Quality Assessment of Tributaries in the Severn Sound Area
7. Changes in Zooplankton Community Structure in Severn Sound following
Phosphorus Loading Reductions
8. Report on Fish Community and Biomass in Severn Sound Tributaries
9. Report on Lead Shot Remediation Technology Assessment
Lead Shot Remediation Technology Assessment
ent of Tributaries in the Severn Sound Area
7. Changes in Zooplankton Community Structure in Severn Sound following
Phosphorus Loading Reductions
8. Report on Fish Community and Biomass in Severn Sound Tributaries
9. Report on Lead Shot Remediation Technology Assessment
sessment
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spanish harbour
!Spanish Harbour Remedial Action Plan
Background
The Spanish Harbour Area of Concern covers the lower 53 km of the river
from Espanola to the harbour at Spanish, Ontario and the Whalesback
Channel. It is located on the north shore of the North Channel, Lake Huron.
Many of the impacts from the discharge of the pulp and paper mill at
Espanola, which led to the listing of the river and harbour as an Area of
Concern, have been remediated. Additional impacts due to historic and
ongoing mining activities in the Sudbury basin have been identified.
Industrial and municipal point sources, long-range atmospheric deposition, agricultural runoff, and in-place pollutants all contribute to the use impairments.
RAP Report Status
* The Stage 2 process has commenced with the RAP Team developing the
remedial options for the AOC and completing further research to meet
the information gaps identified in the Stage 1 Report. Review of
impaired beneficial uses was conducted by a Technical Review Committee in 1996 and resulted in a change in status of eight beneficial uses. The draft Stage 2 report for Spanish Harbour is expected to be
complete in early 1997.
* The PAC has developed general principles of management (ecosystem
context and zero discharge) and water use goals for the Area of
Concern.
* Technical studies completed in 1995/96 included modelling of suspended
sediment loads in the lower Spanish River to assess the effect of
abatement initiatives in the Sudbury basin; electroshocking in the
spring of 1995 to assess muskellunge populations in the North Channel
area as donor stocks for the re-introduction program in the Spanish
River delta; an analysis of wet/dry deposition in the Spanish River
watershed; collection and analysis of sediment cores from the
Whalesback Channel area; and collection of muskellunge eggs and
raising of fry for a fall planting of musky fingerlings in the harbour
1. Status Report: Spanish River - Harbour Area. June 1988.
2. A survey of Public Opinion Regarding Water Quality of the Lower
Spanish River. 1988.
3. The Effect of In-Place Pollutants on the Benthic Invertebrate Fauna of
the Spanish River Harbour. March 1989.
4. Fish Tainting Evaluation. 1990.
5. An Assessment of the Application of Ultraviolet Disinfection
Technology in Ontario. July 1993.
6. Spanish Harbour Stage 1: Environmental Conditions and Problem
Definition. July 1993.
7. Spanish River Delta Marsh Wetland Evaluation. March 1995.
Fact Sheets:
1. Spanish Harbour - Great Lakes Remedial Action Plan Status.
2. Cleanup Fund Fact Sheet: Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant
Optimization Series No. 1 - Assessment of the Application of
Ultraviolet Disinfection Technology in Ontario.
Newsletters:
1. Rapport #1. Summer 1989.
2. Rapport #2. Summer 1991.
3. Rapport #3. Winter 1994.
ditions and Problem
Definition. July 1993.
7. Spanish River Delta Marsh Wetland Evaluation. March 1995.
Fact Sheets:
1. Spanish Harbour - Great Lakes Remedial Action Plan Status.
2. Cleanup Fund Fact Sheet: Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant
Optimization Series No. 1 - Assessment of the Application of
Ultraviolet Disinfection Technology in Ontario.
Newsletters:
1. Rapport #1. Summer 1989.
2. Rapport #2. Summer 1991.
3. Rapport #3. Winter 1994.
r 1994.
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st. clair river
J3ISt. Clair River Remedial Action Plan
Background
The St. Clair River forms the upper-most portion of the corridor between
Lakes Huron and Erie, serving as a connecting channel from Lake Huron to
Lake St.Clair. This 64 km connecting channel is an important international
waterway, with heavy demands put on it as a shipping channel and as a
source of water for power generation, municipal water supply, recreational
uses including boating and fishing, and industrial cooling and process
water. Industrial and municipal point sources, long-range atmospheric deposition, agricultural runoff, and in-place pollutants all contribute to the use impairments. A zone of sediment contamination in the St. Clair River extends in an intermittent fashion approximately 6 km south from the Sarnia industrial complex to the east of Stag Island along the Ontario shoreline. Although this zone of contamination remains serious, it has shrunk approximately 75% since 1978.
Discharges of chlorinated organic compounds, heavy metals, oils and
greases, phenols, and suspended solids from petroleum and chemical
industries, combined sewer overflows, sewage treatment plants, spills, as
well as historically contaminated sediments, are the major concerns.
RAP Report Status
* The Stage 2 RAP Recommended Plan was formally presented to provincial,
federal and state representatives on March 7, 1995. The event was well
attended by local MPP's, MP's and BPAC members, as well as federal and
provincial staff. The RAP Team and BPAC are awaiting formal federal
and provincial responses in order to complete the Implementation
Annex.
* Nonprofit organizations, "Friends of the St. Clair River", have been
formed in both Ontario and Michigan with executive boards comprised of
BPAC members. They are actively seeking funds to assist with the Stage
2 implementation activities. Many actions have been taken and have
resulted in substantial improvements in environmental quality.
* Implementation priorities have been developed and are actively being
pursued. BPAC and RIC have established a list of actions, which if
implemented will result in measurable environmental improvements and
will allow the St. Clair River to be delisted as an Area of Concern.
* A consultant has been retained to assist in preparation of the RAP
Stage 2 Implementation Annex as well as the second RAP Stage 1 update.
Based on information collected since 1993 when the last Stage 1 update
was prepared, the RIC and BPAC will be evaluating the status of "Use
Impairments" and progress in achieving delisting criteria.
* Environmental quality data and land use/habitat information is being
compiled into a comprehensive GIS database for the St. Clair River. As
part of this work, a Natural Heritage Study is being conducted using
existing digital information in both Ontario and Michigan. This
information will eventually permit an assessment of habitat in the AOC
watershed against prescribed numerical targets and assist in
determining where efforts at habit creation/restoration should be
focussed.
* A small but highly contaminated pocket of river sediments was
discovered by Environment Ontario and Environment Canada personnel
during late 1995 as part of RAP sediment characterization fieldwork.
The approximately 15m X 25m zone was located nearshore and immediately
downstream from the Cole Drain, which until the early 1980's was a
shore discharge, suggesting that the contaminants were in-place for
many years.
Following additional sampling and discussions with MOEE, Environment
Canada, and the Lambton Industrial Society, Dow Chemical Canada Inc.
initiated a plan to remove the material from the St. Clair River.
Because of the presence of a large amount of ice in Lake St. Clair,
the cleanup operation could not begin until late April, 1996 and
concluded in early May. Using an environmental dredge, the Cable Arm
clamshell bucket, precise layers of material were removed with minimal
stirring up of the river bottom. The material was disposed of at the
Dow Scott Road landfill.
* As part of the RAP, activities to evaluate remedial options for other
less contaminated areas is ongoing. The remaining zones reflect
historical discharges to the river and studies/discussions on the need
or suitability of remediating or leaving the sediments alone are
underway. Results of sediment and benthic studies from 1994-96 are
being evaluated along with modelling to determine priority areas to be
The Cornwall Public Advisory Committee (PAC) was formed in 1988 and has
been consistently working towards achievement of the public use goals it
formulated in 1989. The PAC meets monthly and its subcommittees meet more frequently as required.
In fall 1994, various open houses, a public input session, and a special
presentation to municipal representatives were hosted by the PAC to
introduce the document Choices for Cleanup: Deciding the Future of A Great
River to the community and receive public input regarding the preferred
options presented in the report. Choices for Cleanup outlines environmental
problems and their causes in the AOC and discusses seventy-nine preferred
remedial options selected by the PAC in consultation with the RAP Team.
The PAC Chair has given presentations about the RAP to teachers at a
Professional Development day, to high school classes, and to a Youth
Environmental Symposium. Both PAC and RAP Team members have made many presentations to scientific conferences hosted by the St. Lawrence River
Institute for Environmental Sciences in Cornwall, as well as a variety of
other community groups. PAC and RAP Team members participated in a local TV show on the topic of the recommendations for cleaning up the river. The PAC also sets up displays each year at the Cornwall Sportsman's Show, the
Cornwall Home & Trade Show, and at the Ontario Public Advisory Council
(OPAC) conference.
The recommendations for cleanup of the St. Lawrence AOC which brought about the most public response were those concerning the preservation of wetlands in the AOC. The recommendations in Choices for Cleanup are in agreement with the provincial Wetlands Policy of the day; the landowners found the policy much too restrictive. Recent changes to the provincial Planning Act have resulted in a more flexible interpretation of the policy, reflecting the need to incorporate both natural heritage and development values into land use changes. Other environmental concerns in the AOC revolve around contaminants in sediments, contaminants in fish and their impact on human consumption, industrial inputs of contaminants, and the problem of upstream inputs to the AOC.
Since the beginning of the RAP, Cornwall has seen several industries close
down. This has stopped inputs of contaminants from two major industrial
point sources. However, sediment along the Cornwall waterfront is
contaminated with a range of persistent toxic, inorganic, and organic
substances. Federal and provincial governments are working to develop a
strategy for ensuring that appropriate actions are taken to address the
problem in accordance with RAP recommendations.
The PAC had a role in the establishment of a Pollution Control Plan for the
City of Cornwall. The PAC has endorsed two proposals for treatment of
stormwater, one at the Fly Creek Storm Water Retention Pond, studies for
which have been supported by the Great Lakes Cleanup Fund, and the second
regarding creation of a treatment tank on the waterfront which is now in
early planning stages.
The PAC has been faithfully served by many representatives of various
stakeholders' groups concerned with the RAP, but over the disappointingly
long process it has lost some representatives. The PAC has been considering
ways in which it can continue to ensure environmental improvement in the
ecosystem after the Stage 2 report is produced. Cooperation with other
environmental initiatives is considered essential, but it is not yet clear
what form this will take. The PAC increasingly considers that matters such
as air pollution and the use of pesticides and herbicides are important to
the RAP. PAC members believe that hands on activities are important to
foster a sense of public stewardship. The PAC is very active in the Ontario
Public Advisory Council (OPAC), recognizing that some issues are shared
across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Basin and need to be addressed on a
Ministry of Environment and Energy. ISBN 0-7778-1317-3.
18. Comba, M.E., K.L.E. Kaiser and S.M. Backus. 1993. Distribution of
Polychlorinated Biphenyl Congeners in Spottail Shiners from the St.
Lawrence River. NOI Research Report RAP-100-92, No.1 (Burlington:
Environment Canada). 48 pp.
19. McCorquodale, J.A., S.P. Zhou, Z. Ji. 1993. St. Lawrence RAP Technical
Report No. 4. Pollutant Transport in the Cornwall Channel of the St.
Lawrence River.
20. Jardine, C.G. 1992. St. Lawrence RAP Technical Report No. 3. Fish
Tainting Evaluation.
21. St. Lawrence RAP Team. 1992. St. Lawrence River Area of Concern
Remedial Action Plan for the Cornwall-Lake St. Francis Area, Stage 1
Report: Environmental Conditions and Problem Definition.
22. St. Lawrence RAP Team. 1992. St. Lawrence RAP Technical Report No. 1.
Technical Workshop on Remedial Options in the Cornwall Area of
Concern. March 1992.
23. Anderson, J. and J. Biberhofer. 1991. St. Lawrence RAP Technical
Report No. 2. Water and Suspended Sediment Quality in the St. Lawrence
River at Cornwall/Massena: 1988 Data Report.
nd Problem Definition.
22. St. Lawrence RAP Team. 1992. St. Lawrence RAP Technical Report No. 1.
Technical Workshop on Remedial Options in the Cornwall Area of
Concern. March 1992.
23. Anderson, J. and J. Biberhofer. 1991. St. Lawrence RAP Technical
Report No. 2. Water and Suspended Sediment Quality in the St. Lawrence
River at Cornwall/Massena: 1988 Data Report.
Report.
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st. marys river
St. Marys River Remedial Action Plan
Background
The St. Mary's River is a 112 km connecting channel between Lakes Superior
and Huron. The Area of Concern extends from the head of the river at
Whitefish Bay (Point Iroquois), downstream through St.Joseph Channel to
Humburg Point on the Ontario side, and to the outlet of Lake Munuscong at
Point aux Frenes on the Michigan side. Severe impairment of water quality,
sediment, and biota remain on the Ontario shoreline due to major point
source discharges. Contaminants of concern include: oil and grease, suspended solids, metals, phenols, ammonia, bacteria, and PAHs. Sources contributing to the use impairments include: Algoma Steel, two Ontario water pollution control plants, St. Mary's Paper, one Michigan wastewater treatment plant, and three Ontario tributaries. Non-point sources, such as the Cannelton Tannery site in Michigan, contribute to a lesser extent than the point sources.
Combined sewer overflows in Michigan and wet weather, by-pass events in
Ontario also contribute to the use impairments. Loss of wetlands and rapids
habitat due to urban/industrial development, and operation of navigational
structures are also a concern.
RAP Report Status
* Results from ongoing projects pertaining to sediment remediation and
habitat restoration, along with Task Team reports, will be
incorporated into the Options Discussion Document for the RAP. Based
on BPAC and RAP Team input, preferred options will be identified and
* Wake Up to Your Waterfront, a community shoreline cleanup, was held
for the third consecutive year.
* The fifth annual "Lake Superior Day" (July 21, 1996) was a great
success. Once again hundreds of people enjoyed environmental exhibits,
educational activities, and live entertainment on the Thunder Bay
waterfront.
* The RAP has a high profile with considerable general public awareness
and support.
* All four Lake Superior RAPs have pulp and paper representatives on the
PACs. They actively voice the industry's concerns regarding
environmental controls. Currently Avenor Inc., Abitibi-Price,
Provincial Papers and Northern Wood are represented on the Thunder
Bay PAC.
Implementation Outlook
Many of the water quality issues are being addressed as a result of process
changes and improved effluent treatment at local pulp and paper mills.
Various demonstration projects have also been directed towards the
restoration/creation of fish and wildlife habitat in the AOC. The two most
significant outstanding issues include the Northern Wood site and secondary
treatment at the Thunder Bay STP.
With respect to Northern Wood site, an agreement was signed in August 1997. The agreement calls for the expenditure of $ 9.3 M over three years to isolate the contaminant source, remediate the contaminated sediment and enhance fish habitat. On May 14th, 1997, following a public consultation process, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency concluded that the project was not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. Work began on the site in August with the construction of a containment berm, completed in November 1997. Removal of the contaminated sediment began in October with completion by December.
Treatment of the contaminated sediment will start in the spring of 1998 and may take up to two years to complete, depending on the technology selected. Other site work began in the spring of 1997 including the construction of a clay barrier along the face of the Northern Wood wharf, the placement of fill behind the containment berm and the development of fish habitat. Construction on the site is expected to be complete by the end of 1999.
With respect to the STP, the municipality is committed in principle to the upgrade, and with the assistance of the Great Lakes 2000 Cleanup Fund, will soon begin a pilot plant evaluation.
A binational partnership between the Thunder Bay, St. Mary's, and St. Louis
AOCs has been proposed. These areas face similar remediation issues of
degraded waterfront habitat and concerns for waterfront development.
Through partnerships and pooling of resources, efficient plans can be
simultaneously developed and implemented in all three Areas of Concern.
A watershed management plan that addresses urban and rural development in the Slate River Valley is nearing completion.
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Rehabilitation and Restoration
Ontario Hydro has approached the RAP regarding entering into a partnership
for environmental enhancement of their thermal generating station on
Mission Island. Ontario Hydro is interested in developing project ideas
surrounding ecosystem linkages and demonstrating innovative biotechnology with direct industrial applications. This partnership has the potential to be an excellent communication and education program for all areas involved.
Rehabilitation programs are being developed for threatened populations of
lake sturgeon in the Kaministiquia River. The recovery of lake sturgeon
will be facilitated by improved watershed and stream bank management to
reduce sedimentation. Tributaries of the Kam River have been deforested and developed for rural housing and agriculture. The resulting runoff has
buried sturgeon spawning areas. The recovery plan involves restoring this
habitat alteration.
Industry
Provincial Papers:
Formerly Abitibi-Price, Provincial Papers was purchased by employees
of that mill. The mill has implemented secondary effluent treatment to
meet current regulations.
Abitibi-Price:
Fort William Division has implemented secondary treatment using an
activated sludge process.
Thunder Bay Packaging:
Previously Abitibi (Thunder Bay Division) this mill has re-opened to
produce corrugated cardboard.
Public Education
Innovative Ecosystem Monitoring
Monitoring to determine effectiveness of remedial actions is costly,
is often abandoned in times of constraint, is focused upon action to
restore localized, site specific impairments, and usually does not
address ecosystem response to rehabilitation actions. An exception is
the Lake Superior LakeWatch program which is cost-effective,
integrative, public-supported, and conducted by volunteers.
The proposed candidates for an ecosystem data base include ecosystem
based measures (eg. number of song birds, arrival date of loons, catch
from fishing derbies) which also respond to local remediation.
Assessments at AOCs commonly measure finite parameters (eg.
concentration of PAHs, sediment properties). Proposed monitoring is
inclusive and uses programs, interest, and expertise developed in
public clubs, groups, and schools. This program will provide
effective, low cost monitoring because in-place programs will be
utilized. Effort will be directed at screening candidate measures,
organizing public groups and ecosystem monitoring programs in-place,
and creating a five-AOC, Lake Superior data base.
Publications
Published:
1. Thunder Bay Remedial Action Plan Stage 1 Report: Environmental
Conditions and Problem Definition. October 1991.
2. RAP Report #12-18. Bulletins prepared January - August 1992.
3. Tech. Report #11. Summary of Small Fish Surveys Conducted in the
Rivers Entering Thunder Bay Harbour, 1990. May 1992.
4. Tech. Report #12. The 1990 Fall Waterfowl Study - Mission and Neebling
Marshes. May 1992.
5. Summary Newsletter of the North Shore Lake Superior RAPs. October
1993.
6. Tech. Report # 15. Thunder Bay Socio-Economic Profile. August 1993.
7. Tech. Report # 17. North Shore of Lake Superior RAP Public Involvement
Programs: A Review. October 1993.
8. Tech. Report # 21. Ballast Water. State of the Science, Guidelines and
Regulations. March 1994.
1994.
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wheatley harbour
Wheatley Harbour Remedial Action Plan
Background
The Wheatley Harbour Area of Concern (AOC) includes the harbour proper (as
well as its upstream wetlands and the Muddy Creek watershed). The harbour
is used mainly by commercial fishing operations. Historical problems
centred around food processing discharges to the harbour. Significant
improvements have been made in wastewater treatment, yet bacterial
contamination and contaminated sediments remain concerns. Industrial and municipal point sources, long-range atmospheric deposition, agricultural runoff, and in-place pollutants all contribute to the use impairments. Remaining issues include moderate levels of PCBs in the harbour sediment, elevated bacterial levels attributable to leaking septic systems in the watershed, and loss of fish and wildlife habitat.
RAP Report Status
* The Wheatley Harbour RAP has compiled a joint Stage 1 and 2 Report.
The draft Stage 1 and 2 report was completed in July 1996, has
In 1994, the federal government renewed its commitment to the GLWQA with the announcement of Great Lakes 2000 and a renewed Canada-Ontario Agreement Respecting the Great Lakes Basin Ecosystem (COA). Great Lakes 2000 targets action under three objectives: restoration of degraded sites; the prevention and control of pollution; and, the conservation of human and ecosystem health.
The Great Lakes Cleanup Fund is one component of Great Lakes 2000, which in partnership with other government and non-government agencies is demonstrating innovative technologies for contaminated sediment remediation, municipal wastewater treatment and stormwater control, non-point source pollution control, and techniques for habitat rehabilitation.
The Cleanup Fund has provided $35 million to support more than 150 projects to assist with the implementation of remedial programs to restore beneficial uses in the Great Lakes, with a priority on Canada's 17 AOCs. Another $70 million has been contributed by more than 130 partner agencies.
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Click on any red or yellow dot to learn more about the Canadian Areas of Concern. If you wish to learn more about the US Areas of Concern, click here to view their web site (only if your computer is connected to the Internet).)))))))))))
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