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Woodland CaribouSignature Site

Management Plan

Woodland CaribouSignature Site

Section PdfPages

Signature Site Management Plan

Provincial Park Management Plan

Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve (C2405) Reserve Management Plan

Pipestone Bay - McIntosh Enhanced Management Area (E2359)Resource Management Guideline

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35-102

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Woodland Caribou Signature SiteManagement Plan

© 2007, Queen’s Printer for OntarioPrinted in Ontario, Canada

52106(0.125 k P.R., 07 08 31)ISBN 978-1-4249-4981-6 (PDF)

W o o d l a n d C a r i b o u S i g n a t u r e S i t e

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Approval Statement ..................................................................................................................................................i

Statement of Environmental Values Under the Bill of Rights .............................................................................v

1.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................1

2.0 Purpose of this Document .........................................................................................................................2

3.0 Signature Site Vision and Objectives .......................................................................................................2

4.0 Signature Site Values ................................................................................................................................3

5.0 Signature Site Components and Policy Context......................................................................................45.1 Woodland Caribou Provincial Park and Recommended Park Additions ............................................45.2 Eagle - Snowshoe Conservation Reserve ..........................................................................................55.3 Pipestone Bay – McIntosh Enhanced Management Area..................................................................5

6.0 Aboriginal Aspects of Woodland Caribou Signature Site .......................................................................6

7.0 Planning Process........................................................................................................................................6

8.0 Advisory Committee and First Nations Working Group .......................................................................7

9.0 Related Landscape Initiatives ...................................................................................................................89.1 Manitoba/Ontario Interprovincial Wilderness Area ........................................................................89.2 Whitefeather Forest Planning Initiative: Northern Boreal Initiative ...............................................89.3 Adjacent Areas Planning Initiative .................................................................................................89.4 UNESCO World Heritage Site: Boreal Forest in the Northern Hemisphere ....................................9

10.0 Summary of Planning Challenges .........................................................................................................1010.1 Motorized Travel .........................................................................................................................1010.2 Boundaries ...................................................................................................................................1010.3 Crown Land Use ..........................................................................................................................1010.4 Cultural Heritage ........................................................................................................................1010.5 Economic Health ..........................................................................................................................1010.6 Fisheries.......................................................................................................................................1010.7 Industrial Use ..............................................................................................................................1010.8 Land ............................................................................................................................................1010.9 Vegetation ....................................................................................................................................1010.10 Water ..........................................................................................................................................1010.11 Wildlife........................................................................................................................................1110.12 Woodland Caribou........................................................................................................................11


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Table of Contents

11.0 Signature Site Direction .........................................................................................................................1211.1 Motorized Travel .........................................................................................................................1211.2 Boundaries ...................................................................................................................................1311.3 Crown Land Use ..........................................................................................................................1311.4 Cultural Heritage ........................................................................................................................1411.5 Ecological Health..........................................................................................................................1411.6 Economic Health ..........................................................................................................................1511.7 Energy .........................................................................................................................................1511.8 Fisheries.......................................................................................................................................1511.9 Industrial Use ..............................................................................................................................1511.10 Land ............................................................................................................................................1611.11 Representation ..............................................................................................................................1611.12 Vegetation ....................................................................................................................................1611.13 Tourism and Recreation ................................................................................................................1711.14 Water ..........................................................................................................................................1711.15 Wilderness Values .........................................................................................................................1811.16 Wildlife........................................................................................................................................1811.17 Woodland Caribou........................................................................................................................19

12.0 Next Steps ................................................................................................................................................20

13.0 Management Plan Amendments and Review .......................................................................................20

14.0 References .................................................................................................................................................20

Appendix A - Advisory Committee Contributions ......................................................................................................21

List of Figures and TablesFigure WCSS-1 Provincial/Regional Context ...........................................................................................25Table WCSS-1 Components of the Woodland Caribou Signature Site ........................................................4

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Statement of Environmental Values Under the Environmental Bill of Rights

In accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR), the Ministry of Natural Resources hasprepared a Statement of Environmental Values. This Statement of Environmental Values will consider theEnvironmental Bill of Rights whenever decisions are being made which might significantly affect the environment,including decisions made during this planning process for the Woodland Caribou Signature Site Management Plan.

The primary purpose of the Environmental Bill of Rights is “to protect, conserve and, where reasonable, restore theintegrity of the environment.” This broad statement of purpose translates into four objectives in the ministry’sStatement of Environmental Values:

n To ensure the long-term health of ecosystems by protecting and conserving our valuable soil, aquatic resources,forests and wildlife resources, as well as their biological foundations

n To ensure the continuing availability of natural resources for the long-term benefit of the people of Ontario,leaving future generations a legacy of the natural wealth that we enjoy today

n To protect natural heritage and biological features of provincial significancen To protect human life, the resource base and physical property from the threats of forest fires, floods and

erosion.

The Ministry’s Statement of Environmental Values has been considered in the development of the Strategy for theWoodland Caribou Signature Site.

The Woodland Caribou Signature Site is located innorthwestern Ontario, approximately 30 kilometreswest of the town of Red Lake, 90 kilometres north ofthe city of Kenora and 60 kilometres south of thecommunity of Pikangikum (Figure WCSS-1). Asignature site is a unique geographic area whichincludes a mix of land use designations that containimportant natural and cultural heritage values and hassignificant tourism and recreation potential. Thisuniqueness merits focussed planning, management,protection and promotion.

The Woodland Caribou Signature Site consists of544,160 hectares which includes a provincial park, fourrecommended wilderness park additions, a conservationreserve, an enhanced management area and a forestreserve (section 5.0). By considering all areas of thesignature site together, the interrelationships can beidentified and appropriate levels of protection andpromotion of the entire signature site area can beestablished.

The Woodland Caribou Signature Site was chosenbecause of its important natural and cultural heritagevalues and its significant tourism and recreationpotential. As such, it has potential to make lastingcontributions to Ontario’s landscape, biodiversity andeconomy.

The unique boreal ecosystem of the Woodland CaribouSignature Site is influenced by the prairie climate anddisplays a diverse community of flora and fauna, someof which are provincially rare or at the northern limitsof their range. This site is home to threatened forestdwelling woodland caribou. The area is currentlyknown for its excellent facility-based sport fishery andbackcountry wilderness canoeing and camping.

Cultural heritage values exist throughout the signaturesite. The site is considered a cultural landscape; ageographical area that has been modified, influenced orgiven special meaning by people (Parks Canada, 1994).

The Manitoba First Nation community of Little GrandRapids and the Ontario First Nation communities ofGrassy Narrows, Pikangikum, Lac Seul andWabaseemoong all have traditional use areas within thesignature site. The signature site is located withinTreaty 3 and Treaty 5.

The western edge of the Woodland Caribou SignatureSite borders the province of Manitoba and three of itsprotected areas. Northeast of the signature site lies theWhitefeather Forest where community-based land useplanning is underway led by Pikangikum First Nation.East and south of the site are the following managedforests- the Whiskey Jack, Kenora and Red LakeForests.

The identification of the Woodland Caribou SignatureSite as one of the nine featured areas under Ontario’sLiving Legacy Land Use Strategy is based on work carriedout during the Lands for Life planning process. Theobjectives of that process were to: complete Ontario’ssystem of parks and protected areas within the planningarea; recognize the land use needs of the resource basedtourism industry; provide the forest, mining and otherresource industries with greater land and resourcecertainty; and, enhance angling, hunting and otherCrown land recreation opportunities.

1.0 Introduction


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The Woodland Caribou Signature Site ManagementPlan is an all-encompassing document that providesresource management direction. The document isdivided into sections. The first section providesintroductory information, vision and objectives, anoverview of the attributes of the site and direction fornatural resources in the site.

The second, third and fourth sections contain: a parkmanagement plan for Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark and recommended additions, a resourcemanagement plan for Eagle-Snowshoe ConservationReserve and resource management guidelines for thePipestone Bay-MacIntosh Enhanced ManagementArea. Each section can stand alone and be usedindependently of the others.

The Crown Land Use Policy Atlas (CLUPA) is MNR'srepository of current area-specific land use policies forCrown lands in the central part of Ontario. It identifiesthe basic land use intent and permitted uses for each ofthe designated areas in the Woodland CaribouSignature Site. This signature site management planand the complementary supporting documents providemore details on the land use intent, and the resourcemanagement and recreation activities that may occur inthe site. Amendments to the CLUPA will be completedto reflect the direction of this signature sitemanagement plan and/or the complementarysupporting documents.

The signature site management plan provides thecollective vision and direction for all the land usedesignations in the signature site area. Throughstakeholder consultation, the Advisory Committeeassisted in the development of a vision statement whichwas created to guide the management planning process:

“To manage the Woodland Caribou Signature Sitefor its significant geological, biological, cultural,wilderness, and recreational values in a sustainablemanner for the people of Ontario.”

The setting of site objectives is essential in therealization of the overall signature site managementplan. Protected and enhanced management areas willhelp ensure the ecological and economic health of theWoodland Caribou area and its communities, now andfor future generations.

Signature site objectives are, to:n ensure long-term protection of natural and cultural

features in the siten promote the site while preserving and protecting

the character and quality of the environmentn encourage social and economic opportunity which

reflect the unique qualities of the siten develop strong partnerships in order to support a

collective vision.

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2.0 Purpose of this Document 3.0 Signature Site Vision and Objectives

The signature site protects the headwaters of theBloodvein, Gammon, Bird, Haggart and SturgeonRivers. These waterways are the backbone ofapproximately 2,000 kilometres of interconnectedcanoe routes. They are also the travel routes that wereonce part of the historic fur trade in the area known asthe “petit nord”.

The signature site, located in the Canadian Shield,consists of some of the oldest rocks on earth. It issituated in the largest province of ancient Precambrianrock, the Superior Province, and contains the BerensRiver and Uchi subprovinces. Dividing the signaturesite is the Wannipigow-Wallace Lakes fault.

The cultural resources of the Woodland CaribouSignature Site represent the prehistoric hunter-gatherersocieties of the boreal forest as well as their presentdescendents. Cultural evidence consists of both pre-and post-contact sites including pictographs, burialsites, and landscape modifications (e.g. fish traps,planting of wild rice).

The signature site is home to the threatened forest-dwelling woodland caribou, and provides criticalsummer, winter and calving habitat for this species.Other significant wildlife includes bald eagle, sharp-tailed grouse, wolverine and American white pelicans.New northern range extensions for species such asgreen frog, snapping turtle and painted turtle have beendocumented.

Fourteen plants within the signature site areprovincially significant and 124 are considered to beregionally rare. Significant plant communities includewild rice marshes, prairie communities, bur oaksavannah, a large stand of American elm, a largepatterned fen and a mature red pine stand.

The signature site also contains a high concentration oflake trout lakes, and one of the most northerly extentsof muskellunge range in Ontario is within the signaturesite. Some lakes contain trophy-sized northern pike,and walleye are abundant in many lakes within thesignature site.


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4.0 Signature Site Values

The components of the Woodland Caribou SignatureSite are shown in Table WCSS-1.

Also included within the boundaries of the signaturesite is the Bloodvein River which was designated as aCanadian Heritage River in 1998. Additional detailsabout the Bloodvein River and its designation can befound in WCPP section 8.3.1 (park management plan).

5.1 Woodland Caribou Provincial Park and Recommended Park Additions

The existing Woodland Caribou Provincial Park wasregulated in 1983 as a wilderness class park. Fourrecommended park additions were designated in 1999in Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy to becomewilderness class park additions. Both have operatedunder an Interim Management Statement since 2000.Ontario Provincial Parks: Planning and ManagementPolicies (1992 update) defines permitted uses withinprovincial parks for those activities not defined inOntario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999).

The land use intent of a fifth wilderness park addition(3,267 hectares) covering the northern portion of PeiskLake was established in the Whitefeather Forest andAdjacent Areas Land Use Strategy (2006). This documentwas the result of a three-year dialogue betweenPikangikum First Nation and the Ministry of NaturalResources. The dialogue involved a consultative

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5.0 Signature Site Components and Policy Context

Table WCSS-1: Components of the Woodland Caribou Signature Site

Site Component` Site # Classification/Category Area (hectares)

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park P2370e Wilderness 456,575

Recommended Park Additions P2370 Wilderness 29,660

Eagle-Snowshoe (CR) C2405 N/A 35,621

Pipestone Bay - McIntosh (EMA) E2359r Recreation 22,281

Woodland Caribou Forest Reserve F2370 N/A 23

Total area 544,160

Note: Area figures are calculated using the best current information, but should be considered estimates forplanning and comparative purposes only.

planning process to consider a full range ofenvironmental, social and economic factors to developland use direction that balances new opportunities forresource-based economic renewal and protection,remoteness and cultural heritage.

The objectives of Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkare:n protect the wilderness values for which the park was

createdn support or enhance ecological healthn protect and support a healthy population of forest-

dwelling woodland cariboun protect provincially significant natural featuresn protect cultural heritage featuresn provide a range of backcountry tourism and

recreation opportunities where it is consistent withwilderness values and resource capacities

n permit existing facility-based tourism where it iscompatible with protection objectives

n consider new ecotourism opportunities where it isconsistent with protection objectives

n investigate economic opportunities with FirstNations that have traditional use within the site.

5.2 Eagle -Snowshoe Conservation Reserve

Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve was regulatedunder the Public Lands Act in May 2003. ConservationReserves Policy and Procedure (1997) defines permitteduses within conservation reserves for those activities notdefined in the land use strategy. Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve will operate under this generalmanagement direction and the Statement ofConservation Interest until such time as the resourcemanagement plan is approved.

Objectives for Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserveare:n protect representative earth and life science features

while permitting many existing public andAboriginal land uses to continue

n protect forest-dwelling woodland caribou habitatn support existing and new recreation and tourism

opportunities where they do not negatively impactthe representative earth science and life sciencefeatures.

5.3 Pipestone Bay – McIntosh Enhanced Management Area

Pipestone Bay – McIntosh Enhanced ManagementArea land use designation was created by the 1999 landuse strategy. Activities within this area are guided bythe land use policy developed in the strategy.

The objectives for Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EnhancedManagement Area are:n maintain existing recreational use and consider new

tourism opportunities consistent with WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park objectives

n protect the ecological health of park-related values(e.g. Bloodvein River headwaters, Eagle-Finlaysonmoraine) through resource management planning

n maintain existing land use commitments to theindustrial resource sector.


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First Nations people have used the signature site fromtime immemorial and continue to do so today.Habitation sites have been discovered, dating from 3,000years ago. During pre-contact times, Aboriginal peopledeveloped extensive trade routes to transport tradematerials for hundreds or even thousands of kilometres.These routes and the intimate knowledge the Aboriginalpeople had of the landscape were the foundations uponwhich the historical fur trade was built.

Arrival of the Europeans in the 1600s and subsequentdevelopment of the area resulted in a change to thecultural landscape. Trading with Europeans and theinteractions of the two cultures brought about changes inthe Aboriginal nomadic lifestyle and led to thedevelopment of settled communities.

A number of Aboriginal communities with a long historyin the Woodland Caribou Signature Site retain a closerelationship with the land and continue to pursue theirtraditional activities in the area. These uses maycontinue, subject to public safety, conservation andprivate property considerations.

The direction presented in this signature sitemanagement plan is based on public input, advisorycommittee recommendations and government review.The planning stages are as follows:n Invitation to Participate – December 2002n Public Review of Background Information -

February/March 2004n Public Review of Issues and Options – Spring 2005n Public Review of Preliminary Signature Site

Management Plan – Fall 2006n Public Inspection of Approved Signature Site

Management Plan – Summer 2007 (current stage)

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6.0 Aboriginal Aspects of Woodland Caribou Signature Site

7.0 Planning Process

An Advisory Committee was established in January2003. It comprised representatives with a wide range ofinterests and took local, regional, and provincialperspectives into account.

The Advisory Committee, with respect to WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park and the recommended parkadditions, developed a set of guiding principles thatallowed discussion to continue on park issues by allparties on the committee. In accordance with theguiding principles, a series of recommendations weresubmitted to the Project Planning Team. The guidingprinciples and resulting recommendations were integralto the development of this document and are found inAppendix WCSS-1 of this section.

The First Nations of Grassy Narrows, Lac Seul, LittleGrand Rapids, Pikangikum, and Wabaseemoong wereformally invited to participate in the WoodlandCaribou Signature Site planning process. They formeda First Nations Working Group to allow communitieswith traditional use in the signature site to meet in aseparate forum to discuss specific issues, investigateeconomic opportunities and to begin the developmentof a long-lasting and meaningful relationship with localgovernment offices which have responsibilities withinthe site.


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8.0 Advisory Committee and First Nations Working Group

9.1 Manitoba/Ontario Interprovincial WildernessArea

Manitoba and Ontario share a common border andhave contiguous protected areas that encompass morethan one million hectares. Protected areas includeAtikaki Provincial Wilderness Park (MB) andNopiming Provincial Park (MB), Woodland CaribouProvincial Park (ON), South Atikaki Provincial Park(MB), four recommended park additions to WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park (ON), and Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve (ON). Boundaries of these areasarea are shown in Figure WCSS-1. The two provinceshave identified the following areas of cooperation: n Resource Management – coordinate resource

management activities such as fire/vegetationmanagement, enforcement, and wildlifemanagement.

n Marketing – promote the interprovincial wildernessarea through joint marketing endeavours.

n Management of Recreational Opportunities – manageand coordinate high-quality recreationalopportunities that showcase the ecological value ofthe area.

9.2 Whitefeather Forest Planning Initiative:Northern Boreal Initiative

The Ministry of Natural Resources has established theNorthern Boreal Initiative (NBI) and is currentlyengaged with several First Nations who are investigatingeconomic opportunities in locations north of the areawhere commercial forestry currently takes place. TheWhitefeather Forest Planning Area is northeast of theWoodland Caribou Signature Site.

Pikangikum First Nation and the Ministry of NaturalResources released the Whitefeather Forest and AdjacentAreas Land Use Strategy (2006). In this strategy,Dedicated Protected Areas were identified and providedinterim protection through withdrawal from mineralexploration. One Dedicated Protected Area abuts

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park to the north andeast. It is named The Lake Country and is 265,751hectares. Designation as a Dedicated Protected Areameans the type of protected area still needs to bedetermined through cross-cultural dialogue.

It is anticipated that as economic opportunities arerealized within this planning area, the cultural andecological linkages that exist between the WhitefeatherForest and the Woodland Caribou Signature Site willcontinue to develop.

9.3 Adjacent Areas Planning Initiative

An area of 109,200 hectares lies south of theWhitefeather Forest, north of the Red Lake Forest,east of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, and west ofthe Trout Forest (Figure WCSS-1). The WhitefeatherForest and Adjacent Areas Land Use Strategy (2006)recommended Northern Peisk Lake as a wildernesspark addition. It also recommended Valhalla/TroughLake (4,808 hectares) as a Dedicated Protected Area.The type of protected area will be determined throughcross-cultural dialogue.

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9.0 Related Landscape Initiatives

9.4 UNESCO (United Nations Educational,Scientific and Cultural Organization) WorldHeritage Site: Boreal Forest in the NorthernHemisphere

A partnership has been formed among the Province ofManitoba, the Province of Ontario, the Manitoba FirstNations of Bloodvein River, Little Grand Rapids,Pauingassi, and Poplar River, and the Ontario FirstNation of Pikangikum. Collective data was submittedto the IUCN (International Union for theConservation of Nature) regarding Atikaki ProvincialPark in Manitoba, Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkin Ontario and future protected areas within thetraditional lands of the aforementioned First Nations,which fills an important gap in the representation ofthe Canadian boreal shield ecozone.

In November 2003, the IUCN identified the site asremarkable and subsequently recommended it forWorld Heritage Site status (IUCN 2004). The IUCNalso identified this site as internationally significantbecause of the planned integration of traditional andwestern ecological knowledge for land management andprotection. The agreement between the resident FirstNations, in whose traditional territory this site islocated, is precedent setting. In April 2004, Canadaelected to nominate this site as one of eleven on itsupdated Tentative List for World Heritage Siteconsideration by UNESCO.


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The complexity of the signature site is demonstrated bythe wide range of discussion topics and issues broughtforward by the advisory committee, First Nations,public and planning team.

10.1 Motorized Travel

A variety of types of motorized travel occurs for a widerange of purposes. Motorized travel associated withsome tourism and recreation activities affects natural,cultural and wilderness values, and is causing userconflicts. Policies for motorized travel are perceived tobenefit those people with a commercial interest in thepark as opposed to those people who use the park forpersonal recreational reasons.

10.2 Boundaries

Some feel the boundaries do not capture all thesignificant values in the area.

The boundaries of two of the recommended provincialpark additions cannot be regulated until replacementwood supply is secured from other locations for thoserecommended provincial park additions.

10.3 Crown Land Use

There are early signs of overuse by signature site users.In some places, soil compaction, improper disposal ofhuman waste and grey water, litter, destruction ofvegetation and damage to sensitive habitats andshorelines are apparent.

10.4 Cultural Heritage

More information is needed about the location andimportance of sites so that they can be properlyprotected and interpreted.

10.5 Economic Health

The current commercial activities are important to thelocal and regional economy. The signature site shouldprovide some new opportunities.

10.6 Fisheries

If the sportfishing is to be sustainable, it must not benegatively affected by remote tourism activities.

10.7 Industrial Use

Industrial access in the enhanced management area andthe other parts of the managed forest can causeundesirable impact on protected area and tourismvalues, and also on the headwaters of the BloodveinRiver.

10.8 Land

Land occupations in the signature site should notnegatively affect any significant natural, cultural orlandform features.

10.9 Vegetation

Fire suppression in the last few decades has impactedon the natural plant abundance and distribution, andalso on woodland caribou habitat.

10.10 Water

Even though water quality in the signature site isexcellent, it is important to support and protect thisfundamental resource. Activities in the signature sitemay negatively affect water quality and ecosystemsdependent on it.

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10.0 Summary of Planning Challenges

10.11 Wildlife

Although hunting is permitted in the recommendedpark additions, using motorized vehicles to accesshunting areas and retrieve game is inconsistent withwilderness class park policy.

10.12 Woodland Caribou

This species at risk requires large expanses of old, even-aged conifer forest with lichen ground cover in winterand isolated islands or peninsulas for spring calving.Winter recreation trails and spring camping may have anegative impact on caribou.


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The following direction is based on public input,advisory committee recommendations and governmentreview.


A wide variety of motorized travel occurs in thesignature site.

Due to the remote nature of the site, aircraft are usedto access private property and tourism operations, andfor recreation.

Clients of facility-based tourist operations travel withinthe site mainly by motorboats based at the facility orbased away from the facility at a boat cache. Othertourist operators located outside the site have boatcaches within the site where they leave clients for day-trips.

Recreational snowmobiling occurs in the signature site;however, no authorized trails exist. Snowmobiling is anon-conforming use in the park and currently occurs inBulging/Haggart, Douglas/Hatchet, Knox/Murdockand Talon/Dragon areas.

Industrial road access for forestry and mining purposesexists in the Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA and otherparts of the managed forest. Motorized travel relatedto forestry and mining is addressed in the “IndustrialUse” section.

Direction n Enhance wilderness values over the long term by

creating larger areas of less motorized use inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. Access will beprimarily at the periphery of Woodland CaribouProvincial Park, with a few exceptions.

n Private aircraft use will be permitted in designatedaccess zones and at commercial tourism facilitiesprovided they are registered guests at the facility.However, patent land owners and immediate familycan access their patent property using their ownaircraft, commercial aircraft or their own boats.

n Aircraft use will be permitted in specific areas of thepark to carry out commercially licensed activities.

n Aircraft are not restricted in the conservationreserve or enhanced management area.

n Enhance wilderness values by regulatinghorsepower related to recreational watercraft inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park.

n Phase out snowmobile use in the existing park toprotect the long-term health of woodland cariboupopulations and to maintain a large undisturbedcore wilderness area.

n Permit snowmobile use in a limited number ofdesignated access zones in the park additions, andon existing trails in the conservation reserve, tosupport hunting and ice fishing. Proposals for newsnowmobile trails in the northern part of theenhanced management area will be considered.

n Prohibit ATVs except on tenured properties inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park and on existingtrails in the conservation reserve.

n Resource harvesters may be permitted to use aircraft,snowmobiles, motorboats or ATVs according to theterms of their authorized resource use.

n In the northern part of the EMA, the public can useexisting and new roads for general recreationactivities.

n In the southern part of the EMA, the public can useexisting roads for general recreation activities.Public use of new roads is not permitted.

n Access to Woodland Caribou Provincial Park orpark additions via the EMA is permitted atdesignated access zones only.

11.0 Signature Site Direction


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11.2 Boundaries

The existing Woodland Caribou Provincial Park wasregulated in 1983. Ontario’s Living Legacy Land UseStrategy recommended four wilderness park additions,the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve (which wasregulated under the Public Lands Act in 2003), and thePipestone Bay – McIntosh Enhanced Management Area.

Across Ontario, where protected areas recommendedunder Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategyoverlapped with pre-existing mining lands (claims andleases), the areas were designated as Forest Reserves.The intent was that when the mining tenure lapsed, thearea would be regulated as protected areas. A land useamendment was approved for the Woodland CaribouSignature Site to adjust the boundaries of the parkadditions, the enhanced management area and theforest reserve from those originally identified inOntario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy.

Directionn Regulate Douglas/Foley Lake and Sydney/Rowdy

Lake park additions that were recommended inOntario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategyimmediately after the approval of this signature sitemanagement plan.

n Regulate Southern Peisk/Lund Lake and AnchorLake recommended park additions whenreplacement wood supply is secured from otherlocations. The Northern Peisk Lake park additionthat was recommended in Whitefeather Forest andAdjacent Areas Land Use Strategy will be regulated atthe same time to ensure a measure of consistency.

11.3 Crown Land Use

Crown land use includes the array of outdoor activitiesundertaken on Crown land such as camping, canoeing,picnicking (e.g. shorelunch), hunting, angling andsnowmobiling. Crown land use also includesconstruction of facilities on Crown land for certainpurposes. Land in the signature site is occupied foruses such as commercial tourism establishments,cottages and private resorts, resource harvestingdevelopments (e.g. trap cabins), boat caches andmining/forestry activities. Of these developments, thereare 13 on patent land. Crown land uses can have anegative impact on the environment if not managedproperly. The overall land use direction for theWoodland Caribou Signature Site is to allow for thecontinuation of Crown land use activities, inaccordance with policy, without negatively impactingthe ecological, cultural or wilderness values of the site.Dispositions related to tourism and recreation areaddressed in “Tourism and Recreation”.

Directionn In Woodland Caribou Provincial Park acquire

patent land based on willing seller – willing buyerbasis, as resources permit.

n Ban the use of glass bottles in the park, except ontenured land, to contribute to ecological health.

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11.4 Cultural Heritage

An objective for the signature site is the long-termprotection of cultural values. The cultural heritage ofthe signature site is partially displayed throughpictographs and artifacts. It is also demonstratedthrough landscape modifications such as fish traps,channeling and planting of wild rice. The FirstNations communities that have traditional use areaswithin the site retain a close relationship with the land.The overall land use intent with regard to culturalheritage is to advocate further research anddocumentation of cultural sites, protect known sites andpromote public education.

Directionn Represent and protect significant cultural heritage

resources in the signature site to help ensure thelong term preservation of such features for futuregenerations.

n Protect significant cultural features in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park by restricting, prohibitingor relocating activities like boat caching, camping,hiking trails, portages, canoeing and kayaking incertain areas.

n Identify post-European contact sites, such asremnant fur trading posts.

n Work in partnership with First Nations to identifysignificant cultural and archaeological sites.

n Research and interpretation of the Aboriginalcultural heritage within the Pikangikum traditionalland use area of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park,which will be undertaken co-operatively.

11.5 Ecological Health

The signature site is a substantial area of approximately544,160 hectares. Although there is some road access tothe periphery and air access is currently unrestricted, thesite is relatively remote. The signature site containsmany significant natural values. Some values arenegatively affected by commercial and recreationalactivities that occur in the site.

On a broader scale, there is a greater understanding andappreciation of the role that protected areas play inconserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change, andacting as ecological benchmarks in the landscape.Forested lands can help to moderate the effects ofclimate change by removing and storing greenhousegases from the atmosphere. Global warming cannegatively affect forests by an increase in the frequencyof fires, insect infestation and diseases due to changes intemperature and precipitation. Climate change couldalso affect the distribution and abundance of habitat andpopulations of flora and fauna, resulting in a change inspecies composition.

Direction n Increase ecological health by prohibiting certain

activities in sensitive areas.n Maintain ecological health and meet protection

objectives by rehabilitating fish habitat and byapplying conditions to sport fishing.

n Protect significant natural and cultural features andwilderness values in Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark by restricting, prohibiting or relocatingactivities like boat caching, camping, hiking trails,portages, canoeing and kayaking in certain areas.

n Collect data on populations and habitat of flora andfauna as opportunities exist, and to consider theeffects of climate change during scheduled reviewsof management plans for the provincial park andconservation reserve.

11.6 Economic Health

The predominant economic activities in the area aretourism, forestry and mining. Other land uses includetrapping, wild rice harvesting and commercial baitfishing.

Directionn New opportunities in tourism may be considered if

the proposal is compatible with policies for the landuse areas within the signature site.

n Bear Management Areas are permitted in theenhanced management area, the conservationreserve and the recommended park additions.

n Forestry and mining are permitted in the Pipestone– MacIntosh Enhanced Management Area. Miningis also permitted in the Woodland Caribou ForestReserve.

11.7 Energy

There are no energy generation facilities or anyenergy-related infrastructure within the signature site atthis time.

Directionn Commercial power generation, including

hydroelectric, is not permitted in the park,recommended park additions or conservationreserve.

n Small-scale, non-commercial, renewable energydevelopments to generate power for existingtourism facilities may be considered if they are moreeconomical and environmentally friendly than thecurrent method of electricity generation and if theyare compatible with signature site values. Forexample, it may be desirable to generate power fortourism facilities using wind or water, rather thandiesel fuel, if remoteness can be maintained, and ifnatural, cultural heritage and recreation values canbe protected.

11.8 Fisheries

The majority of anglers in the signature site areassociated with the facility-based tourism industry orcommercial day trips; however angling by localresidents and First Nations community members dooccur. Commercial bait harvesting also occurs.

Directionn Rehabilitate habitat.n Support research and inventories of the fisheries

resource.n Pursue a “conservation limits only” regulation for

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park to maintain ahigh quality fishery that supports tourism.

n Renew dialogue with the Province of Manitobaregarding the Ontario/Manitoba Boundary WatersAgreement.

11.9 Industrial Use

The Red Lake area is one of the richest gold producingareas in North America and has been extensivelyexplored and developed since the 1920s. Over the past70 years, 12 mines have come into production.Currently there are two significant gold producingmines in the Red Lake area.

The signature site is bordered by the Red Lake,Whiskey Jack and Kenora Forests. Timber harvestingand forest management are the most visible adjacentland uses and may have the greatest potential impact onthe signature site.

Directionn Forestry and mining are permitted in the Pipestone

– McIntosh Enhanced Management Area. Miningis also permitted in the Woodland Caribou ForestReserve.

n Industrial activities will be planned to protectnatural, cultural and recreational values. Forexample, timing restrictions and/or timber reservesmay be appropriate depending on the value and theactivity.

n Industrial access in the enhanced management areawill be planned to avoid undesirable impact on parkand tourism values, and the headwaters of the


15

Bloodvein River. n The Guidelines for Exploration Best Practices in

Enhanced Management Areas in Ontario (2002) willbe applied.

n Avoid undesirable impact on park and tourismvalues through careful planning of new roadlocations and restricting access on existing roadswhere conflicts exist or where values are at risk.

n In the EMA, roads will be constructed to loweststandard possible. New roads/trails should consideraesthetics. Design and construction should facilitateaccess controls and closure/rehabilitation whereunwanted entry to the park is likely.

n A primary forest access road crossing betweenSydney and Rowdy lakes in the most southerlyrecommended park addition is permitted.

n Industrial access roads are permitted in theconservation reserve to access existing miningtenure for future mineral exploration and/or miningdevelopment

11.10 Land

Natural features in the signature site include shorelinesof glacial Lake Agassiz, subaqueous fan deposits, theprovincially significant Eagle-Finlayson Moraine andassociated features, a portion of the Red Lakegreenstone belt, the Wannipigow-Wallace Lake faultand shear zones.

Direction? Protect significant geological structures and

landforms in Nature Reserve zones of the park andthrough other management policies.

11.11 Representation

Representation of the diversity of natural features,species and ecosystems is one of the principles of theprotected areas system. Protected areas contribute tothe conservation of genetic and biological diversity.The Woodland Caribou Signature Site is within theOntario Shield Ecozone. The site spans twoecoregions (3S Cat Lake and 4S Lake Wabigoon) andthree ecodistricts (3S-1 Berens River Bedrock Plateau,4S-1 Sydney Lake, and 4S-2 Sunstrum). The signaturesite represents 37 per cent of Eco-district 4S-1,providing representation to all land cover classes foundtherein.

Directionn Maintain the current diversity of landform-

vegetation classes found within the provincial parkand conservation reserve.

n Protect rare communities in Nature Reserve zones,or prohibit development in those locations.

n Regulate the park additions to enhance biodiversityin the park.

11.12 Vegetation

The signature site contains rich sedge meadows, rareplants, hardwood swamps, bur oak savannahs, prairie-boreal species communities, provincially significantspecies (e.g. floating marsh marigold, Vasey’spondweed, prairie crocus, prairie spikemoss), patternedfens, rich fen meadows, southern flora such as tenflowered showy goldenrod and purple chokeberry, andvarious delicate wetland flora.

Directionn Maintain the diversity and distribution of vegetation

within the provincial park and conservation reserve.n Commercial timber harvesting is not permitted in

the provincial park or conservation reserve.n Provincially rare plant species and unique

vegetation communities will be protected in NatureReserve zones in the park.

n? A fire management plan will be prepared thatbalances the ecological role of fire with safetyconsiderations. Fires within the signature site willbe jointly managed, such that district staff and park

16

staff are consulted regarding management actionsfor fires that are likely to cross boundaries betweenthe park, the recommended park additions, theconservation reserve or the enhanced managementarea.

n Fuelwood harvesting will not be permitted in theprovincial park or conservation reserve unlessexisting facilities lack reasonable means of acquiringfuelwood.

11.13 Tourism and Recreation

In the Woodland Caribou Signature Site there are sixmain base lodges located on Sabourin, Douglas, Carroll,Sydney, Gammon and Rowdy Lakes. Lodges are locatedon patent land or Crown leases. There are also 24commercial outpost camps in the signature site locatedmainly on the Bird, Bloodvein and Gammon Riversystems. The Northern Peisk Lake park addition alsocontains two commercial outpost camps. Outpost campsare authorized by Land Use Permits or Crown Leases.

Private tourism and recreation interests in the signaturesite include private resorts on Donald and AndersonLakes, and 15 private cottages (on patent land). Thereare also seven private recreation camps on Land UsePermits throughout the site.

Two of the four objectives set out in Ontario’s LivingLegacy Land Use Strategy are: to recognize the land useneeds of the tourism industry; and, to enhance angling,hunting and other Crown land recreationopportunities. Further, the land use strategy recognizesthe signature site as having extremely significanttourism and recreation potential that merits increasedplanning, management and promotion.

There are a number of features and values, especiallynatural heritage values and remoteness that wereconsidered in determining the land use intent for thesignature site with respect to tourism and recreation.

Directionn New dispositions for the private use of individuals

will not be permitted in the existing park orrecommended park additions. Existing dispositionsfor private purposes will be phased out byDecember 31, 2009.

n In the conservation reserve and enhancedmanagement area, dispositions for private recreationwill not be considered for facilities that provideovernight accommodation.

n Backcountry recreation and tourism opportunitieswill be supported by providing staging areas foraccess ranging from maintained tertiary roads tofloatplane access to low-intensity access zones.Low-intensity access zones will not have anyfacilities and will be restricted to non-motorizedwatercraft. In general, visitors will reach one ofthese access zones by paddling from a parking areasome distance away.

n Existing tourism operations may continue; howeversome restrictions may be imposed on certainactivities to ensure ecological health. Newopportunities in adventure and ecotourism may bepossible.

n In the conservation reserve, Crown land camping bynon-residents is permitted provided they obtain aCrown land camping permit. Seasonal LUPs maybe issued to commercial tourism operations tosupport hunting opportunities where no facilitiesalready exist.

11.14 Water

The Woodland Caribou Signature Site lies entirelywithin the Nelson River Drainage Basin where allwater flows into Hudson Bay via Lake Winnipeg andthe Nelson River. Many headwaters are containedwithin the signature site boundaries. Water quality isexcellent and suitable for all recreational uses in thesignature site.


17

Directionn Protect headwater areas of the Bloodvein River by

regulating the Peisk/Lund Lake recommended parkaddition. Regulation of the Northern Peisk Lakepark addition will also contribute to headwaterprotection.

n Identify and protect representative aquatic featuressubject to a provincial framework being established.

n Establish baseline information for water quality andquantity, where feasible.

11.15 Wilderness Values

The Woodland Caribou Signature Site contains areasof appropriate size and integrity that supportbackcountry tourism and recreation opportunities whilepreserving and protecting the character and quality ofthe environment. A “wilderness continuum” is aconcept symbolized by a horizontal line representingwilderness. At one end of the line, the park does notmeet the definition of a wilderness class park (lesswilderness). At the other end of the line, the park meetsthe definition completely (more wilderness). Decisionsmade during the planning process will be measuredagainst current conditions in the park and how thesechanges affect the realization of the wilderness classdefinition and the parks system as a whole. At the endof this planning process and subsequent ones,management actions will move the park along thewilderness continuum towards more wilderness invarying degrees.

Directionn Backcountry activities (e.g. hiking trails, portages,

canoeing, kayaking) will occur in a manner thatensures that wilderness values are protected.

n Move the park along a “wilderness continuum”towards a state of more wilderness. In theprovincial park wilderness values will be protectedby reducing the human footprint of certainactivities. Examples include designating campsites,relocating boat caches and limiting motorizedtravel. Entry quotas will be implemented whenrequired.

11.16 Wildlife

Typical boreal wildlife species found in the signaturesite include large mammals such as woodland caribou,moose and black bears. Furbearers such as beaver, otter,mink, muskrat, fisher, marten, weasel, lynx, fox,wolverine and timber wolf are also present. Interestingbird species include bald eagles, sharp-tailed grouse andAmerican white pelicans. The northern rangeextensions for green frog, snapping turtle and paintedturtle also occur here.

There are 36 full or partial traplines throughout thesignature site. Hunting has not been permitted in theexisting park since 1989 but is a popular activity in theremainder of the signature site.

Directionn Hunting by non-natives is not permitted in the

existing provincial park. Hunting is permitted inthe conservation reserve, the enhanced managementarea and recommended park additions (except in thenature reserve zones), subject to regulations underthe Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.

n Commercial trapping is permitted in theconservation reserve and the enhanced managementarea. In the existing park, trapping by non-nativepeople will be phased out by December 31, 2009. Inthe recommended park additions, trapping by non-natives can continue indefinitely.

18


19

11.17 Woodland Caribou

The signature site contains important summer andwinter habitat for this species which is listed asnationally “threatened”1 by the Committee on theStatus of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC)and has been designated as threatened by the Ministryof Natural Resources.

Direction n Protect caribou by reducing opportunities for

predation and by reducing impact of humandisturbance on critical habitat. Examples includeprohibiting snowmobile trails in winter habitat areasand prohibiting camping in calving areas in springand early summer.

1. “Threatened species means a wildlife species that is likely to become an endangered species if nothing is done to reverse thefactors leading to its extirpation or extinction. (Species at Risk Act, 2002)

The Woodland Caribou Signature Site ManagementPlan will be made available for public inspection inconjunction with the Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark Management Plan, the Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve Resource Management Plan andthe Pipestone-McIntosh Enhanced Management Arearesource management guidelines.

This signature site management plan will beimplemented through the policies in the resourcemanagement plans for the park and conservationreserve, and through the policies in the managementdirection for the enhanced management area.Proposed changes in land use direction and permitteduses as a result of this planning process are shown onrevised Crown Land Use Policy Atlas reports in thecomplementary supporting documents.

The need for a comprehensive review of the approvedWoodland Caribou Signature Site Management Planwill be assessed every 10 years. However, new orchanged circumstances may require the strategy to beamended.

Amendments will be considered on a case-by-case basisand may require public consultation if they havesignificant environmental, social or economic impact.Amendment proposals must have basis in fact,demonstrate a relationship to the scope of signature siteplanning, and/or must respond to changing resourceconditions, new information, or new/revisedgovernment policies. Amendments will not alter theoverall vision for Woodland Caribou Signature Site. Approval will be required by the Regional Director,Northwest Region, and the Managing Director,Ontario Parks. These types of amendments mayrequire revisions to resource management plans.

12.0 Next Steps 13.0 Management Plan Amendments and Review

20

IUCN. 2004. Proceedings of the World HeritageBoreal Zone Workshop. St. Petersburg, Russia.October 10-13, 2003. 40 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 1992update. Ontario Provincial Parks: Planning andManagement Strategies.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 1999.Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR).2004. Woodland Caribou Signature Site BackgroundInformation. Ontario Parks, Red Lake District. Red Lake, Ontario. 54 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR). 2005.Woodland Caribou Signature Site Issues and Options.Ontario Parks, Red Lake District. Red Lake, Ontario. 36p.

Parks Canada. 1994. Guiding Principles and OperatingPolicies. Ottawa: Department of Canadian Heritage.

Pikangikum First Nation and OMNR. 2006. Keepingthe Land – A Land Use Strategy for the WhitefeatherForest and Adjacent Areas. 98 pp.


21

14.0 References

Guiding Principles and Recommendations

The Woodland Caribou Signature Site AdvisoryCommittee held its inaugural meeting on January 23,2003. In the beginning of the planning process, theAdvisory Committee developed a set of guidingprinciples in order to create an atmosphere of respectand understanding in which discussions could proceed.In accordance with these principles, recommendationswere submitted to the Project Planning Team for theWoodland Caribou Signature Site PreliminaryManagement Plan.

The following is a direct communication from theAdvisory Committee (August 23, 2005):

“The Advisory Committee thanks Ontario Parks for theopportunity to represent the diverse interests of the region inpreparing a management plan for Woodland CaribouProvincial Park and Signature Site.

It has been difficult to fit together the requirements ofexisting Parks policy, the needs of local communities and thevarious directives. However, the Advisory Committeereached 100% consensus on the following guiding principles:

This Advisory Committee will make recommendations inaccordance with the following principles;

1. All existing commercial roofed accommodation with airaccess will remain;

2. Portage access boat caches associated with facility willremain;

3. Existing motorboat use associated with points 1 and 2will remain with possible restrictions;

4. No seasonal net loss of easily accessed high quality canoeroutes;

5. Protection of earth and life science features;

6. Minimum of 5 day canoe route (max.25 km/day) withsolitude, i.e. no motorboats for at least 3 of the 5 days,with possibility of encountering motorboats or facilities inentry/exit points only;

7. All existing users have some assurance that their presenceand future viability will continue (local economicbenefits);

8. Plan the park to ensure that there are a variety ofwilderness experiences.

As an Advisory Committee, based on the foregoing, we havecome to unanimous consensus on the followingrecommendations:

1. All existing commercial roofed accommodations will beallowed to continue in their present form.

2. Move as quickly as possible, through negotiations withindividual operators, to remove all boat caches from thelarge wilderness areas outside of the Bloodvein andGammon River System, with the exception of IrregularLake.

3. Move towards the phase out of snowmobiling in the parkin ten years on those trails which do not conflict withcurrent caribou habitat. We note that recognizedsnowmobile use in the park additions will continue.

4. Whereas Park Policy, in conjunction with the Minister’sOrder (PM 1.00), limits motorized boat activity to thatassociated with current tourism operations within thepark; therefore the Advisory Committee urges thatmotorized boat traffic not meeting that requirement bephased out.”

22

Appendix A – Advisory Committee Contributions

Other Discussion Topics

In addition to the principles and recommendations, theAdvisory Committee reached consensus on a number ofother topics between January 23, 2003 and August 23,2005. The Planning Team considered these in thedevelopment of the preliminary signature sitemanagement plan, resource management plan andresource management guideline.

The Advisory Committee discussed many other topicson which consensus was not reached. The PlanningTeam also considered this discussion in thedevelopment of the preliminary signature sitemanagement plan, resource management plan andresource management guideline.


23

n No new transmission towers or utility corridors, and existing towers to be phased out over ten years in the core park.

n No new transmission towers or utility corridors, and phase out existing towers over a period of ten years in the conservation reserve.

n Remove MNR fuel cache from the park.

n No MNR fuel caches allowed in the park additions.

n No MNR fuel caches in the conservation reserve.

n No MNR fuel caches allowed in the enhanced management area.

n Can and glass bottle ban, except for tenured locations (LUP, Crown lease, patent lands), in the core park.

n Can and glass bottle ban, except for tenured locations (LUP, Crown lease, patent lands), in the park additions.

n Can and glass bottle ban, except for tenured locations (LUP, Crown lease, patent lands), in the conservation reserve.

n Recommended to identify three wilderness zones, and two access zones in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park as a planning tool.

n No new opportunities for commercial fishing except those provided for in the Islington Band Agreement.

n New facilities/opportunities should be non-consumptive.

n Existing and new outpost camps permitted (with qualifiers for non-consumptive for new opportunities).

n Existing resorts and lodges permitted but not new ones.

n Recommend to MNR to maintain the road from Red Lake to Leano Lake and that a road access be provided at Lund Lake via the

McIntosh road for access to Woodland Caribou Provincial Park. That MNR should be prepared to enter into a road maintenance

agreement on the above roads.

n Propose Donald, Hansen and Sabourin Lakes for air access zones.

n Reduce the number of boat caches by 10% over five years and another 10% in the next five years .

n Explore opportunities with operators to relocate on same lake or remove boat caches in Wilderness Zone 2

n Where critical winter caribou habitat is not in danger and there is use of existing trails, the Advisory Committee recommends a phase-out

period of ten years for snowmobiling in the existing Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.

n ‘Conservation license only’ be phased in over five years in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.

n The Woodland Caribou Signature Site Advisory Committee sees the proposed road crossing between Sydney and Rowdy Lakes as having

the potential to impact negatively on park values and therefore, the Woodland Caribou Signature Site Advisory Committee opposes the

Sydney/Rowdy Crossing as proposed in the 2004 Whiskey Jack Forest Management Plan.

n Portage-to boat caches are boats which are associated with the facility-based operations (for fisheries management purposes) and are

accessed by a walking trail or water from the lake that the facility is located on.

n Facilities and motorized transport are items which do not conform with the objectives of wilderness parks and wilderness zones, however,

the Minister has mandated that existing commercial tourism facilities will remain, furthermore there are few opportunities to relocated

facilities outside of the park.

Woodland Caribou Provincial ParkPark Management Plan

W o o d l a n d C a r i b o u P r o v i n c i a l P a r k

i


Statement of Environmental Values and The Environmental Bill of Rights ....................................................vi

1.0 Context ......................................................................................................................................................11.1 Planning Context............................................................................................................................11.2 Aboriginal Context .........................................................................................................................1

2.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................2

3.0 Classification ..............................................................................................................................................3

4.0 Goal ......................................................................................................................................................34.1 Wilderness Continuum ...................................................................................................................3

5.0 Objectives....................................................................................................................................................55.1 Protection Objective.........................................................................................................................5

5.1.1 Earth Science Features .....................................................................................................55.1.2 Life Science Features ........................................................................................................65.1.3 Cultural Resources Features..............................................................................................7

5.2 Heritage Appreciation Objective ......................................................................................................85.3 Recreation Objective ........................................................................................................................85.4 Tourism Objective ...........................................................................................................................9

6.0 Boundary ..................................................................................................................................................10

7.0 Zoning ....................................................................................................................................................117.1 Nature Reserve Zones ...................................................................................................................117.2 Historical Zones ............................................................................................................................137.3 Wilderness Zones ..........................................................................................................................147.4 Access Zones ..................................................................................................................................15

7.4.1 Year-round Access Zones .................................................................................................157.4.2 Seasonal Access Zones .....................................................................................................177.4.3. Temporary Access Zones..................................................................................................18

8.0 Resource Management Policies...............................................................................................................208.1 Terrestrial Ecosystem Management................................................................................................20

8.1.1 Vegetation ......................................................................................................................208.1.2 Forest Fire Management ................................................................................................218.1.3 Insects and Disease .........................................................................................................218.1.4 Wildlife .........................................................................................................................22

8.1.4.1 Hunting ..........................................................................................................228.1.4.2 Trapping..........................................................................................................22


iii

Table of Contents

8.1.5 Land Management and Disposition ................................................................................238.1.5.1 Mining............................................................................................................238.1.5.2 Commercial Tourism........................................................................................238.1.5.3 Private Recreation Camps ................................................................................238.1.5.4 Patent Lands ...................................................................................................24

8.2 Aquatic Ecosystem Management....................................................................................................248.2.1 Fisheries ........................................................................................................................24

8.2.1.1 Sport Fishing ...................................................................................................248.2.1.2 Commercial Fishing and Bait Harvesting.........................................................24

8.2.2 Water Management .......................................................................................................258.3 Cultural Ecosystem Management ..................................................................................................25

8.3.1 Bloodvein Canadian Heritage River ...............................................................................25

9.0 Operational Policies.................................................................................................................................269.1 Recreation Management................................................................................................................26

9.1.1 Backcountry Travel ........................................................................................................269.1.2 Campsites.......................................................................................................................269.1.3 Litter.............................................................................................................................279.1.4 Shorelunch Areas ...........................................................................................................27

9.2 Motorized Travel ..........................................................................................................................279.2.1 Motorboats .....................................................................................................................279.2.2 Snowmobiles...................................................................................................................289.2.3 All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) ...........................................................................................289.2.4 Private Aircraft .............................................................................................................289.2.5 Private Boat Caches .......................................................................................................29

9.3 Access ......................................................................................................................................299.3.1 Air Access ......................................................................................................................299.3.2 Aircraft Protocol.............................................................................................................309.3.3 Road Access ....................................................................................................................309.3.4 Water Access ..................................................................................................................309.3.5 Seasonal Access ...............................................................................................................30

9.4 Commercial Tourism.....................................................................................................................309.4.1 Portage-to Boat Caches...................................................................................................319.4.2 Remote Fly-in Boat Caches .............................................................................................31

9.5 Natural Heritage Education .........................................................................................................319.5.1 Information ...................................................................................................................329.5.2 Interpretation.................................................................................................................329.5.3 Tourism Services ............................................................................................................32

9.6 Research and Partnerships.............................................................................................................329.6.1 Pikangikum First Nation/Ontario Parks Partnership.....................................................329.6.2 Manitoba/Ontario Interprovincial Wilderness Area ........................................................33

9.7 Marketing ....................................................................................................................................33

iv

10.0 Development Policies ...............................................................................................................................3410.1 Portages........................................................................................................................................3410.2 Campsites .....................................................................................................................................3410.3 MNR Fire Fuel Cache ..................................................................................................................3510.4 Access Zones ..................................................................................................................................3510.5 Trails............................................................................................................................................3510.6 Signage ........................................................................................................................................35

11.0 Implementation Priorities.......................................................................................................................3611.1 Boundary......................................................................................................................................3611.2 Resource Stewardship ....................................................................................................................3611.3 Operations ....................................................................................................................................3611.4 Development.................................................................................................................................37

12.0 Plan Review and Amendment ................................................................................................................38

13.0 References .................................................................................................................................................39

AppendicesAppendix WCPP-1: Horsepower Restrictions for Woodland Caribou Provincial Park ...................................42Appendix WCPP-2: Permitted Uses Table – Woodland Caribou Provincial Park (P2370e)..........................44Appendix WCPP-3: Permitted Uses Table – Woodland Caribou Provincial Park Additions (P2370)............48Appendix WCPP-4: Permitted Uses Table – Northern Peisk Lake -

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park Addition (P2370a) .................................................................52Appendix WCPP-5: Social and Economic Impacts .......................................................................................56Appendix WCPP-6: Summary of Public Consultation.................................................................................58

List of FiguresFigure WCPP-1 Signature Site Reference Map ........................................................................................61Figure WCPP-2 Zoning...........................................................................................................................62Figure WCPP-3 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR1, A1)...............................................................63Figure WCPP-4 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR2, NR3)............................................................64Figure WCPP-5 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR4, A5)...............................................................65Figure WCPP-6 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR5, A6, A7) ........................................................66Figure WCPP-7 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR6, A8, A14)......................................................67Figure WCPP-8 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR7, NR8, A12, As8) ...........................................68Figure WCPP-9 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR9, A15).............................................................69Figure WCPP-10 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR10, A13)...........................................................70Figure WCPP-11 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR11, A16, A17, A18) .........................................71Figure WCPP-12 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR12, NR13, A19, As9) .......................................72Figure WCPP-13 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (NR14, NR15, NR16, A20, As9, As10)..................73Figure WCPP-14 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (A2, A3, A4)...........................................................74Figure WCPP-15 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (A9, As1, As2) ........................................................75Figure WCPP-16 Nature Reserves and Access Zoning (A10, 11, As3, As4, As5, As6, As7).........................76Figure WCPP-17 Snowmobile Phase-out....................................................................................................77Figure WCPP-18 Private Aircraft Phase-out .............................................................................................78


v

Statement of Environmental Values and the Environmental Bill of Rights

In 1994, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) finalized its Statement of Environmental Values (SEV) under theEnvironmental Bill of Rights (EBR). The SEV is a document that describes how the purposes of the EBR are to beconsidered whenever decisions are made in the ministry that might significantly affect the environment. Thisincludes decisions made as a result of the park management planning process.

The primary purpose of the EBR is “to protect, conserve and, where reasonable, restore the integrity of theenvironment.” From the ministry’s perspective, that broad statement of purpose translates into four objectives in its SEV:n To ensure the long-term health of ecosystems by protecting and conserving our valuable soil, aquatic resources,

forest, and wildlife resources as well as their biological foundations,n To ensure the continuing availability of natural resources for the long-term benefit of the people of Ontario, n To protect natural heritage and biological features of provincial significance,n To protect human life, the resource base, and physical property from the threats of forest fires, floods, and

erosion.

The ministry’s SEV has been considered throughout the planning process. The management plan for WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park will further the objectives of managing Ontario’s resource on an environmentallysustainable base.

vi

1.1 Planning Context

This park management plan has been preparedconsistent with direction contained in Our SustainableFuture, Ministry of Natural Resources Strategic Directions(2005). The ministry’s vision is “sustainabledevelopment”; and it’s mission is “ecologicalsustainability.” The Ontario Parks program contributesmainly to the goal of “Healthy Natural Environmentfor Ontarians,” but contributes to other strategicelements as well. The mandate of the ministry forOntario Parks is to deliver Ontario’s parks andprotected areas program, which includes: the protectionand management of provincially significant natural,cultural, and recreational environments; provincialparks operations; provision of tourism opportunities,natural heritage education; planning and managementof parks and protected areas; policy leadership onconservation reserves; monitoring, auditing, and publicreporting on Ontario’s parks and protected areas.

This document has been prepared consistent withdirection contained in Protecting What Sustains Us:Ontario’s Biodiversity Strategy (2005). Ontario Parkssupports both the first goal, to “Protect the genetic,species and ecosystem diversity of Ontario”, and thesecond goal, to “Use and develop the biological assetsof Ontario sustainably, and capture benefits from suchuse for Ontarians”. In particular Woodland CaribouProvincial Park will be managed to protect any speciesat risk and their habitats.

1.2 Aboriginal Context

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park is described as acultural landscape. Archaeological evidence records useby Aboriginal people broadly over northwesternOntario and specifically in Woodland CaribouProvincial Park over thousands of years. First Nationsdocumentation confirms this research by their ownrecords of Indigenous Knowledge, collaborative

research with Ontario Parks and through theircontinued use of this landscape today.

A number of Aboriginal communities with a longhistory in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park retain aclose relationship with the land and continue to pursuetheir traditional activities in the area. The Ontario FirstNation communities of Grassy Narrows, Pikangikum,Lac Seul and Wabaseemoong and the Manitoba FirstNation community of Little Grand Rapids all havetraditional use areas within the signature site.Woodland Caribou Provincial Park is located withinTreaty 3 and Treaty 5.

Ontario Parks considers consultation with local FirstNations an integral part of the park planning process.A First Nation Working Group was established to allowcommunities with traditional use in the signature site tomeet in a separate forum to discuss specific issues,investigate economic opportunities and to begin thedevelopment of a long-lasting meaningful relationshipwith local staff. Although the Working Group was notthe most suitable forum for discussing issues that werespecific to individual communities, it provided aspringboard for Ontario Parks and communities todevelop and maintain co-operative relationships.Focussed discussions between individual communitiesand Ontario Parks resulted in specificrecommendations from the First Nations about parkmanagement. Consultation included public informationsessions held in each community at each stage of theprocess as well as translated summaries of thedocuments into Ojibway syllabics.

Nothing in this park management plan shall beconstrued so as to abrogate or derogate from theprotection provided for the existing Aboriginal orTreaty rights of the Aboriginal people of Canada asrecognized and affirmed in section 35 of theConstitution Act, 1982.

1.0 Context


1

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park covers 456,575hectares (1.2 million acres) making it the largestcomponent of the Woodland Caribou Signature Site.Five recommended park additions add another 32,927hectares of protected area. Combined, they represent89 percent of the signature site (Figure WCPP-1).

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park resources have beenunder study and subsequent consideration for higherlevel protection since the 1940s. On June 7, 1983,Woodland Caribou Provincial Park was regulated as awilderness class park under the Provincial Parks Act byOntario Regulation 343/83. In 2000, an interimmanagement statement was prepared to guide directionof the park until a park management plan is approved.

Characteristics of Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkinclude critical woodland caribou habitat, significantearth and life science features, important cultural sites,excellent remote tourism opportunities, and manyscenic canoe routes, including the Bloodvein CanadianHeritage River. Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkprovides a wide range of tourism, recreation andeconomic benefits for the surrounding communities. Alarge number of businesses in the Red Lake area areassociated with the tourism industry, which relies onother wholesale and retail commerce, transportation,construction and repair industries for its continuedexistence. Indirect benefits of the management plan,(protection of resource integrity and cultural values,area recognition) are expected to assist in making theregion and local communities more attractive tobusinesses as well as tourists and residents.

Commercial tourism activity in the park is supported bycommercial air services, main-base lodges, outpostcamps, and backcountry outfitters. Facility-basedestablishments provide a wide range of use and visitationopportunities, the most popular being angling.Backcountry tourism outfitters provide a full range ofcanoeing and camping services. The diversity of lakesand river systems in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park

provides some of the highest quality recreational fishingand canoeing in Ontario. The primary appeal for allvisitors is the wilderness setting and remote quality ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park.

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park is found in theBoreal Shield Ecozone. The park is primarily withinEcoregion 4S (Ecodistricts 4S-1 and 4S-2) and extendsinto Ecoregion 3S (Ecodistrict 3S-1). The Municipalityof Red Lake is the closest community to WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park, located approximately 30kilometres east of the park (Figure WCSS-1). Othercommunities in the immediate planning area includeEar Falls, Kenora, Pikangikum, Whitedog, GrassyNarrows, Lac Seul and Little Grand Rapids inManitoba.

This approved park management plan will guide themanagement, operation and development of WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park over the next 20 years. Theplan may be reviewed or amended as the need arises;Section 12 describes the conditions for review andamendment of the plan.

Woodland Caribou Park Management Plan has beendeveloped in accordance with the Ontario ProvincialParks Planning and Management Policies (1992),Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999), andWhitefeather Forest and Adjacent Areas Land UseStrategy (2006). In accordance with this plan, MNRwill amend affected area-specific land use policies andmapping found in the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas.

2

2.0 Introduction

Through park classification, Ontario’s provincial parksare organized into broad categories, each of which hasparticular purposes and characteristics. All provincialparks in Ontario fall into one of six classes: wilderness,nature reserve, historical, natural environment, waterwayor recreation. Each class contributes differently towardsthe provincial parks system while collectively ensuringthat the province’s natural, cultural and recreationalenvironments are protected.

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park is a wilderness classpark. The objective of wilderness class parks is to protectlarge areas where the forces of nature can exist freely andvisitors travel by non-mechanized means, except as maybe permitted by regulation, while engaging in low-impact recreation to experience solitude, challenge andintegration with nature (Ontario Provincial Park Planningand Management Policies 1992).

Wilderness class parks play a key role in the protectionof natural heritage in Ontario.

While the wilderness class park objective clearlydiscourages mechanized travel, provincial park policiesallow limited mechanized travel in specificcircumstances. These include access zones intended toprovide points of entry, commercial use such as byoutfitters, access to private property or recreation campswithin wilderness parks, and exercise of Aboriginal andtreaty rights. These “exceptions” meet other provincialpark objectives, including provision of outdoorrecreation opportunities and supporting tourism. Thefundamental policy decisions about mechanized accessand many other uses in wilderness class parks were madewhen the Ontario Provincial Park Planning andManagement Policies were approved in 1992. TheWoodland Caribou planning process is determining howto apply these policies. Through the use of phase-outprovisions, zoning, negotiations with individuals andother approaches, efforts have been made to implementthe policies for wilderness class parks in WoodlandCaribou, while minimizing impacts on users.

The goal of the Ontario Provincial Parks system is “toprovide a variety of outdoor recreation opportunitiesand to protect provincially significant natural, culturaland recreational environments in a system of ProvincialParks." Woodland Caribou Provincial Park fits into thissystem by protecting an outstanding wildernesslandscape, natural features and cultural resources, andby providing high quality recreational and educationalexperiences.

Ontario’s parks play an important role in representingand conserving the diversity of Ontario’s naturalfeatures and ecosystems, across the broader landscape.Protected areas include representative earth, life, andcultural heritage features within ecologically definedregions. Management of Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark will adopt an integrative and landscape-levelapproach.

Including the recommended park additions, WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park is Ontario’s fourth largest parkand third largest wilderness class park. It meets thewilderness park class target for Ecoregion 4S and playsan important role in the achievement of wildernesstargets for the provincial parks system.

4.1 Wilderness Continuum

Early in the process, it was identified that a goal of thisand subsequent plans would be for Woodland CaribouProvincial Park to move towards the Ontario Park’sdefinition of a wilderness class park (section 3.0).Through discussions with the Advisory Committee andProject Planning Team, the wilderness continuumconcept was born. The wilderness continuum conceptis a subjective tool used to visualize the direction thatthis planning process will take Woodland CaribouProvincial Park. The wilderness continuum issymbolized by a horizontal line representingwilderness. At one end of the line, the park does notmeet the definition of a wilderness class park (lesswilderness). At the other end, the park meets the


3

3.0 Classification 4.0 Goal

definition completely (more wilderness). WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park falls somewhere in between.Decisions made during the planning process will bemeasured against the park’s current condition tounderstand how these changes affect the realization ofthe wilderness class definition and the parks’ system asa whole. At the end of this planning process and duringsubsequent planning reviews the goal and objectives ofthe park will be realized if, by our management actions,the park’s position on the continuum is moved in thedirection of more wilderness. Different managementactions will move the park’s position in varying degreesbut the overall intent is a move to more wilderness.

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Wilderness Continuum

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park

less wilderness more wilderness

The four objectives of the Ontario Provincial Parkssystem are: protection, heritage appreciation,recreation and tourism. As a wilderness class park,Woodland Caribou Provincial Park will contributeto these through the following park objectives:

n Protect the wilderness values for which the park wascreated

n Support or enhance ecological healthn Protect and support a healthy population of forest-

dwelling woodland cariboun Protect provincially significant natural featuresn Protect cultural heritage featuresn Provide a range of backcountry tourism and

recreation opportunities where it is consistent withwilderness values and resource capacities

n Support existing facility-based tourism where it iscompatible with protection objectives.

5.1 Protection Objective

To protect provincially significant elements of thenatural and cultural landscape of Ontario.

Wilderness parks contribute to the preservation ofgenetic and biological diversity, and provide remotelandscapes, which are essential to maintain ecologicalhealth, and in turn provide continued health andprosperity for the people of Ontario. Designated awilderness class park, the primary objective ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park will be protection.

The protection objective will be accomplished throughappropriate park zoning, control of land use andactivities, education, research, and monitoring ofecological impacts. Appropriate mitigation of potentialimpacts will ensure continued protection of significantfeatures. Impacts that may result from park activitieswill be considered during management planning.

Consistent with Protecting What Sustains Us: Ontario’sBiodiversity Strategy, Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkwill be managed to protect any species at risk and theirhabitats, in particular, forest-dwelling woodland caribou.

5.1.1 Earth Science FeaturesWoodland Caribou Provincial Park lies at thegeographic heart of the Canadian Shield. TheCanadian Shield is divided into provinces based on rocktype, structure and age. Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark is situated in the largest province of ancientPrecambrian rock, the Superior Province. Within thepark are two subprovinces of the Superior Province: theUchi Subprovince and the Berens River Subprovince.Dividing these subprovinces is a large fault zone knownas the Wanipigow-Wallace Lakes fault. This zone ofintense shearing and rock deformation extends fromLake Winnipeg through Crystal, Donald and RoydLakes east to Pipestone Bay on Red Lake.

The soils, glacial features and drainage patterns of thepark are the result of the last glacial period, the LateWisconsinan. Strong evidence of glacial Lake Agassizexists from this period in the park, in the form oflacustrine deposits of sand, silt and clay, wave-cut beachterraces and large tracts of bare bedrock cleared of debrisby wave action. Most of the park became free of icebetween 11,700 and 10,800 years ago. As the glaciersmelted, the debris embedded throughout the ice wasdeposited on the land surface as ground moraine or till.Other glacial remnants in the form of till, numeroussmall kames, cross-valley moraine and ground morainedeposits survive in discrete localities throughout thepark. A portion of the Eagle-Finlayson Moraine is alsopreserved at Indian House Lake. It is extensively wave-washed and consists mostly of boulder lags.

A glacial re-advance 9,900 years ago caused LakeAgassiz to rise, submerging the park landscape. Thisresulted in the removal of most debris from bedrockupland areas and the sorting of finer materials such aslacustrine1 sands, silts and clays into deeper portions ofLake Agassiz. These lacustrine deposits are


5

5.0 Objectives

1. Soil that is uniform in texture but variable in chemical composition and that has been formed by deposits in lakes which have becomeextinct.

predominant along the Bloodvein and Gammon Riversystems but also in the Sydney Lake area. The meagresoil that was left on the wave-washed upland bedrockconsists of pockets of sorted tills (mostly sands andgravels) and minor lacustrine sediments (silts and sands)as well as glacial erratics and boulders fields.

Since the draining of glacial Lake Agassiz from the areaabout 7,500 to 7,800 years ago innumerable small lakesand ponds were left behind in which organic sedimentsaccumulated. These are now represented by areas ofswamp and forested bog, which are commonthroughout the area.

Soil development is not extensive, with thin podzols2

predominating. The bare bedrock areas and lacustrinesand deposits are generally nutrient poor, resulting inlimited vegetation diversity. Where finer-grainedmaterials occur, drainage is generally poor, nutrientsmore abundant, and floral diversity greatly increased.

5.1.2 Life Science Features In Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, life sciencevalues consist of provincially significant plants and plantcommunities, various wetland complexes, uniqueaquatic areas, and sensitive wildlife, such as forest-dwelling woodland caribou.

The majority of plant species found in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park are characteristic of a borealforest ecosystem, although elements of other ecologicalregions are also evident. Species typical of the semi-aridprairie to the west make up the largest non-boreal floralelement in the area and thus support the labelling ofthe park as prairie-boreal. Small numbers of arctic andmoist boreal/transition species are also evident. Thisoverlap of ecosystems creates a unique dynamic of plantcommunities.

Plant communities in the park which are recognized assignificant include unusually large and representativewild rice marshes, intolerant coniferous and mixedforests and intolerant deciduous forests. A number of

significant plant species are also found in the parkincluding red pine, American elm, bur oak, green ash,nannyberry, prairie rush, prairie spikemoss, parsleyfern, prairie crocus, prairie buttercup, floating marsh-marigold and narrow-leaved sundew.

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park lies entirely withinthe Nelson River Drainage basin where all waters flowinto Hudson Bay via Lake Winnipeg and the NelsonRiver. The headwaters of six watersheds are protectedwithin the park, as well as the headwater streams ofthree additional watersheds.

The Bloodvein River, of which 106 kilometres lieswithin Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, wasdesignated as part of the Canadian Heritage RiverSystem in 1998. Waters of the Bloodvein flow west intoManitoba's Atikaki Provincial Park and on into LakeWinnipeg. Co-ordinated efforts by the provincialgovernments are aimed at protecting these waters. TheBloodvein is the largest and most diverse waterway inthe park, being composed of larger lakes, wider riverchannels, and a number of falls and cataracts. Thispicturesque region is optimal for wildernessphotography and provides excellent fishing, canoeingand kayaking opportunities.

The distribution of fish communities in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park is closely tied to lakeproductivity. Walleye, northern pike and lake trout arethe major sport fish species found in the park. TheBloodvein River system is dominated by walleye andnorthern pike communities. In the Gammon Riversystem, lake trout appear along with walleye andnorthern pike. In the south, walleye are less frequentand are replaced by lake trout/northern pikecommunities. Whitefish, cisco, sucker, burbot (ling)and yellow perch are common throughout the park.Muskellunge are found in only one lake in the park.This represents one of the most northerly extensions ofmuskellunge range in Ontario. Smallmouth bass wereintroduced around 1958 into Sabourin Lake and are theonly known non-native fish species in the park.

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2. A member of a group of soils that are gray in color and characteristically capped with abundant surface accumulation of organic matter.These soils are often severely leached and highly acid. They are generally low in agricultural value with forests being their most commonand practical coverage.

Bird species which have been sighted in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park include typical boreal residentsas well as various migratory and western species. Thebald eagle, a species of special concern in this region isfound in the park as are sharp-tailed grouse which areregionally significant. Other bird species include thebelted kingfisher, great blue heron, double-crestedcormorant, osprey, great gray owl, merlin, commonnighthawk, five species of woodpecker and a diverserepresentation of waterfowl and songbirds. There arealso several records of unusual sightings of species notcharacteristic of the boreal forest, such as the Americanwhite pelican and Forster's terns.

New northern range extensions for amphibians such asthe green frog, snapping turtle and painted turtle, havebeen recorded. Mink and wood frogs also live in thepark along with the red-sided garter snake, a westernsubspecies of the common garter snake. This is theonly area where the range of this prairie subspecies isknown to overlap with the eastern garter snake,illustrating the prairie-boreal influence on WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park and the biogeographicallycritical range it represents.

Typical mammal species in the boreal forest ecosysteminclude woodland caribou, moose, black bear, beaver,otter, mink, muskrat, fisher, marten, weasel, lynx, foxand timber wolf. Sightings of wolverine and cougarhave been reported and a colony of Franklin’s ground-squirrels was noted, though not confirmed, near thewestern border of the park in 1986.

The boreal populations of forest-dwelling woodlandcaribou are listed as nationally “threatened” by theCommittee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife inCanada (COSEWIC). The groups located withinWoodland Caribou Provincial Park represent one of thelargest concentrations in Ontario south of the HudsonBay Lowlands. In Woodland Caribou Provincial Park apriority will be to manage for population protection andsustainable caribou habitat. Maintaining a dynamic andresilient mosaic of habitats will be a key factor insustaining the current caribou population.Woodland Caribou Provincial Park and therecommended park additions are enclosed within

Wildlife Management Unit 2, Unit 2P and Unit 3.Moose are locally abundant in the park even thoughlarge areas of uniform vegetation normally do notsupport large moose populations. Because of this, thepark represents marginal moose habitat capable ofsupporting isolated pockets in areas of mixedvegetation. The habitats of moose and caribou appearto be mutually exclusive but as pure stands of maturejack pine disappear, moose and caribou ranges willincreasingly overlap, exposing caribou to increasedpredation by wolves. It is inevitable that thedistribution of both moose and caribou will changeover time as natural disturbances, such as wildfire,continue to alter their habitats.

The wolverine has been assigned a national status of“special concern” by COSEWIC and has beendesignated threatened by MNR. Reduced humaninteraction, large areas of suitable habitat and agenerous food supply of moose and caribou carrion andsmall mammals all contribute to the attractiveness ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park for wolverine. Aradio-telemetry study conducted in the Red LakeDistrict in 2003 and 2004 may further ourunderstanding about the ecology of wolverines in andaround the park. One of the radio-tagged wolverinescaptured outside of the park included WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park as part of its home range.

5.1.3 Cultural Resources FeaturesIn Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, special orrepresentative archaeological and historical sites will beprotected from incompatible development and/orrecreation, such as camping and shorelunch activities.

Many people currently use Woodland CaribouProvincial Park. There is significant archaeologicalevidence and historical documentation to indicate thatit has been inhabited and used by many differentcultures into the distant past. The term “precontact”,akin to prehistoric in Old World archaeology, refers tothe thousands of years of Aboriginal occupation beforethe arrival of Europeans in the Americas. No writtenrecords survive from this time but evidence of a vibrantculture remains in the pictographs, archaeologicaldeposits and especially in the oral tradition ofcontemporary Aboriginal occupants of the region.


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The First Nation communities with traditional land usewithin Woodland Caribou Provincial Park give specialmeaning to this cultural landscape. They have their ownnames for places within the park, reflecting a long andstrong relationship. Like other such populations scatteredacross the Subarctic, land use was based upon huntingand gathering, fishing, and a political system basedloosely upon an extended network of family members.Given the diffuse and seasonal nature of their foodsupply, these small bands of people were very mobile andutilized large territories over the course of each year. Tosupport this mobile lifestyle, they developed highlyefficient and portable technology, as well as a socialsystem designed to protect themselves from periodichardships. The archaeological sites found throughout theregion demonstrate the antiquity of this lifestyle.

Archaeologists interpret ancient Aboriginal history bystudying artifacts recovered from archaeological sites aswell as by collaborating with Elders from neighbouringFirst Nation communities. There are numerous intactsites in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, although onlya small number have been documented. They representthousands of years of occupation, with gradualtransformation of the lifestyle being based upon theintroduction of new tool types, subtle shifts in thesubsistence resources exploited and cultural influencesfrom surrounding societies in other environmental zones.

Literature describes that Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark and area contained secondary fur trade activityconsisting of travel routes and trading posts. To date notrading post sites have been documented.

5.2 Heritage Appreciation Objective

To provide opportunities for exploration andappreciation of the outdoor natural and culturalheritage of Ontario.

The heritage appreciation objective will be achievedthrough structured and unstructured opportunities forresource-based interpretation of natural and culturalheritage through publications, displays and visitorservices (section 9.5). Provincially significant culturalheritage includes Aboriginal habitation, exploration, thefur trade and the Bloodvein Canadian Heritage River(section 8.3.1). Natural heritage includes the significantearth and life science features of the park.

5.3 Recreation Objective

To provide provincial park outdoor recreationopportunities ranging from high-intensity dayuse to low-intensity wilderness experiences.

Remoteness makes Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkand its surrounding communities a vacation destinationrather than a day-use opportunity. The ruggedtopography of interconnected lakes and rivers makesthe park ideal for multi-day canoe travel. Beaches,cliffs and clear lakes encourage visitors to explore,photograph and fish. The park also presentsopportunities for seasonal appreciation such as autumncolours, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.

The recreation objective will be achieved throughappropriate park zoning, the identification ofmanagement policies to prevent any compromise ofsignificant natural and/or cultural heritage values,market research and monitoring and mitigation ofrecreational impacts.

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5.4 Tourism Objective

To provide Ontario residents and out-of-province visitors with opportunities to discoverand experience the distinctive regions of theprovince.

Local outfitting services provide wildernessbackcountry experiences. Registered backcountryvisitors to Woodland Caribou Provincial Park in 2004were primarily from the United States (80 per cent)with an increasing number from Manitoba and Ontario(20 per cent). The average length of stay isapproximately six days. Many visitors are repeat users ofthe park and stay for extended periods of up to threeweeks.

The majority of guests utilizing facility-based tourismoperations in the park are primarily interested in sportfishing and come from the United States. Theseoperations attract over 3,100 visitors for a total of17,980 rental nights (personal communication Bastone,2005).

Tourism industry trends appear to favour an agingpopulation of travellers, increased concern for theenvironment and a greater interest in outdooreducation. These trends suggest market growthpotential for guided adventure opportunities andecotourism. As well, trend analysis of visitors fromoverseas, (Europe and Asia), indicate that there is astrong interest in natural and cultural heritageappreciation, particularly that of First Nations.Woodland Caribou Provincial Park and its tourismpartners are well-positioned to create internationalenthusiasm and attraction which will benefit localcommunities and promote the Ontario wildernessexperience.

The tourism objective, like the recreation objective,will be achieved through appropriate park zoning,market research, monitoring and mitigation ofrecreational impacts, as well as the exploration ofpartnerships and new markets.


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Woodland Caribou Provincial Park (P2370e) is locatedbetween the Municipality of Red Lake in northwesternOntario and the Manitoba border. It is associated withtwo administrative districts of the Ministry of NaturalResources; primarily with the Red Lake District inwhich it is located but also with the Kenora Districtthat shares the park’s southern boundary. The park isintended to protect the representative earth and lifescience features of Ecoregion 4S and to provideopportunities for backcountry canoeing, camping andfacility-based tourism.

Five additions to Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkare recommended. Four of these park additions(P2370) were recommended through Ontario’s LivingLegacy - Land Use Strategy (1999): Anchor Lake,southern Peisk/Lund Lakes, Douglas/Foley Lakes, andSydney/Rowdy Lakes. One addition, Northern PeiskLake (P2370a) was identified through the WhitefeatherForest and Adjacent Areas Land Use Strategy (2006).Upon approval of the park management plan,regulation of the Sydney/Rowdy and the Douglas/FoleyLake recommended park additions will beginimmediately. The Ontario Living Legacy additions ofPeisk/Lund Lakes and Anchor Lake recommended parkadditions will continue to be protected on an interimbasis and will be added to the park once replacementwood supplies are secured from other locations.Northern Peisk Lake will be regulated at the same timeas Southern Peisk Lake to ensure a measure ofconsistency.

There are several patent properties located inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. These propertiesare privately owned and are not part of the park,although they are surrounded by park land. Patentproperties are located on Douglas, Larus, Hatchet,Carroll, Donald and Hansen Lakes. Use of theseproperties ranges from a commercial lodge to privatecottage locations.

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6.0 Boundary

Lands within Woodland Caribou Provincial Park arezoned in accordance with their environmental andcultural features and values, and their sensitivity todevelopment. The four zoning categories available toWoodland Caribou Provincial Park are nature reserve,historical, wilderness and access (Ontario Provincial Parks;Planning and Management Policies 1992). The zonesdifferentiate the sensitivity of natural and cultural valuesand the permissible degree of development, recreationaluses and management practices within the park.

Figure WCPP-2 shows the general location of thenature reserve, wilderness and access zones forWoodland Caribou Provincial Park as determinedthrough this planning process. No historical zones havebeen identified at this time but may be included in thefuture as required (section 7.2).

7.1 Nature Reserve Zones

Nature reserve (NR) zones protect provinciallysignificant and representative earth and life sciencefeatures to help ensure the long-term preservation ofsuch features for future generations. These areas mayrequire management different from the adjacent landbase in order to protect provincially rare plant species,represent significant geological structures and landformprocesses, protect headwater areas, represent uniquevegetative communities and habitats, and to safeguardrepresentations of landscape units found in the park.Development is generally restricted to trails, necessarysigns, interpretive facilities, (where warranted), andtemporary facilities for research and management.Motorized travel and camping are not permitted innature reserve zones.

Depending on the type of earth and/or life sciencefeatures the zone was established to protect, objectivesand policies for NR zones may be managed to promote

either evolution or perpetuation. NR zones which areestablished to ensure that evolutionary patterns remainintact may allow natural processes to take their coursesuch as fire, insect and disease outbreaks and erosion.This type of approach is particularly valuable forresearch by serving as a benchmark against which theeffects of human intervention can be evaluated. Wherethe perpetuation of a particular feature or successionalstage is desirable, then an approach involving activemanagement may be undertaken. This may involve thedeliberate protection of a rare vegetative community orduplicating natural processes under controlledconditions, such as prescribed burning.

Consideration has been given to the protection ofrepresentative aquatic features, such as lakes withinWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. To date, there hasbeen insufficient information collected to identify andincorporate a particular feature or representative fishcommunity into a NR. Should an additional NR zonebe recommended in the future, an amendment to themanagement plan will be made including publicconsultation. Currently, some work is being conductedwith respect to the genetic variation in native lake troutstocks within the park.

Within Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, 16 areashave been identified as having provincially significantfeatures which require protection. Eleven of these arefound in the existing park (NR1 – NR6, NR8 - NR12).One is situated in both the existing park and theAnchor Lake recommended park addition (NR7) andfour are located entirely in the Sydney/Rowdy Lakerecommended park addition (NR12 - NR16). Theseprovincially significant features will be protected by NRzone designations.

NR1 – South Artery Lake Wetland (1,184 hectares)The South Artery Lake Wetland includes excellentexamples of rich sedge meadows which contain rareplant species, one of two hardwood swamps foundin the park, and good examples of porphoritic3

granites which are representative of one of themajor rock units in the park (Figure WCPP-3).


11

7.0 Zoning

3. Large grains surrounded by much finer grains. This implies that the large grains grew slowly at depth, the magma with the grains in it,then rose up in the crust, cooling much more quickly forming the fine grains

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NR2 – Bloodvein River Savannah (24 hectares)This area of open oak communities can be describedas a “savannah” (Figure WCPP-4). Bur oakcommunities are provincially significant and containrare plants which may be stressed by humandisturbance. Although the communities arerelatively small and restricted by suitable habitat,they are excellent examples of prairie speciescommunities in a warmer period of post-glacialhistory.

NR3 – Larus Creek Wetland (4,594 hectares)The Larus Creek Wetland represents the deeperand richer lacustrine silts and clays of the middleBloodvein River watershed which supports thelargest percentage of hardwoods in the park (FigureWCPP-4). A number of provincially rare plants arefound here including floating marsh-marigold andVasey's pondweed

NR4 – Olive Lake (3,494 hectares)Rich patterned fen and a number of provinciallyrare plant species such as Vasey’s rush, parsley fernand prairie spikemoss are located in this zone(Figure WCPP-5). Shorelines of glacial LakeAgassiz also occur in association with spillwayswhich are significant for understanding the retreatof the glaciers from the park area. Good examplesof the granitic components of the Beren’s Riversubprovince are also represented.

NR5 – Carroll Lake (1,204 hectares)This zone includes excellent examples ofsubaqueous4 fan deposits created by flowingmeltwater from retreating glaciers as well as goodrepresentation of the metamorphosed rocks of theBerens River subprovince (Figure WCPP-6).Provincially rare plant species, such as prairie crocusand prairie spikemoss, are also found within thiszone.

NR6 – Crystal Lake Shear Zone (1,492 hectares) Excellent examples of subaqueous fan depositscreated by flowing meltwater from retreatingglaciers as well as good examples of the

metamorphosed rocks of the Berens Riversubprovince are represented in this zone (FigureWCPP-7). An excellent representation of theWanipigow-Wallace Lakes fault is also found here.This major shear zone between the Berens Riverand Uchi subprovince is an obvious feature whichcontributes to the interpretation of the geologicalprocesses of the park.

NR7 – Eagle-Finlayson Moraine (5,323 hectares) Zone NR7 supports very rich wetlands and marshes,including the largest patterned fen in the park(Figure WCPP-8). There is good representation ofblack spruce bog forests here. This zone alsorepresents the highly modified portion of theprovincially significant Eagle-Finlayson moraine andassociated features such as outwash, lacustrine andground moraine deposits. This is considered to bethe northern extension and possible termination ofthis moraine system. Bedrock features of the Uchisubprovince are also represented in this zoneincluding, the highly altered remains of the Red Lakegreenstone belt, and mild faulting conditions at theeast end of the Wanipigow-Wallace Lakes fault. Thisnature reserve (NR7) was selected for its terrestrialfeatures, therefore, lakes enclosed within this naturereserve do not form part of the nature reserve.

NR8 – Telescope Lake American Elm Community (5hectares)The range of American (white) elm in Canadastretches from Nova Scotia to central Ontario,through southern Manitoba, and ends in south-eastern Saskatchewan. Its occurrence on TelescopeLake represents one of the most northerly stands ofAmerican elm in northwestern Ontario (FigureWCPP-8). Black ash is also present in this naturereserve. There is considerable regeneration of bothblack ash and American elm, though the size of thesite suitable for the regeneration of these species is alimiting factor.

4. Found or occurring underwater


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NR9 – Haggart Lake Red Pine Community (3 hectares)There are relatively few occurrences of red pine inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park and theserepresent some of the most northerly knownlocations in northwestern Ontario. Thesecommunities are located on three small islands atthe south end of Haggart Lake (Figure WCPP-9).

NR10 – Shear Lake Shear Zone (1,374 hectares) Shear Lake provides examples of a shear zone andrelated mineralization associated with theWanipigow-Wallace Lakes fault (Figure WCPP-10).Cliffs in this zone occur in the same area as acollection of wave-washed deposits typical of glacialLake Agassiz’s action on deposits from theWisconsinan glacier.

NR11 – Eagle Lake (2,614 hectares)The life science features within this NR include richfen meadows and southern flora such as ten-flowered showy goldenrod and purple chokeberry(Figure WCPP-11). An example of the highlyaltered remains of the Red Lake greenstone belt iscaptured in this zone.

NR12 – Kilburn Lake Prairie Communities (2,276hectares)The lacustrine silts and clays of Kilburn Lakesupport excellent mixed and deciduous forestsrepresentative of more southern regions. Delicatewetland flora, including several species of rarerushes, are also found here (Figure WCPP-12).Visible geological structures representing the Uchisubprovince are also present.

NR13 – Sydney Lake Prairie Community (10 hectares)The Sydney Lake area contains excellentrepresentations of prairie plant communitiesintermixed with local boreal species. These remnantcommunities persist on microclimate sites of smallexposed bedrock shores with south-facing exposures(Figure WCPP-12). These plant communities maybe genetically distinct from other populations andimportant for biodiversity conservation. The floraand physical environment is very similar to that ofthe bur oak communities.

NR14, NR15 – Sydney Lake, and NR16 – Rowdy LakeSavannahs (12, 18 and 3 hectares respectively)These provincially significant bur oak communitiescan be described as “savannahs.” Although thecommunities are relatively small and restricted bysuitable habitat, together they provide excellentexamples of prairie species communities from awarmer period of post-glacial history (FigureWCPP-13).

7.2 Historical Zones

Historical zones (HI) represent and protect significantcultural heritage resources to help ensure the long-termpreservation of such features for future generations.They usually incorporate a specific site and thesurrounding landscape.

There are many significant cultural areas withinWoodland Caribou Provincial Park although none havebeen identified for protection by historical zoning atthis time. Consultation with First Nations has resultedin an effective yet subtle approach to protecting thesevaluable resources, such as designate campsites.Consultation with First Nations and the Ministry ofCulture will continue to ensure these resources remainprotected. If information is collected which wouldnecessitate the development of a historical zone, anamendment to the Park Management Plan will berequired (section 12.0).

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7.3 Wilderness Zones

Wilderness zones (WI) are areas of appropriate size andintegrity which can protect natural and cultural valuesas well as support backcountry tourism and recreationopportunities. Development is limited to primitivebackcountry camping, portages, trails, signs necessaryfor route identification and facility-based operationswhere consistent with park values and policy.

Resource management policies for wilderness zones aredirected towards minimizing human interactions,support for evolving natural succession, maintaining awilderness setting and remote quality, and encouragingbackcountry tourism and recreation opportunities. Userconflict, based on motorized travel versus non-motorized travel, was identified as a concern forWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. Recognizing this,management planning has resulted in the creation offive wilderness zones (Figure WCPP-2). The directionfor recreation and tourism activities in each zone maydiffer in order to provide for various user groups, yet allwilderness zones will follow the wilderness continuumconcept towards the realization of more wilderness(section 4.1). Backcountry travelers can expect toexperience some motorized use in the Bloodvein andGammon Wilderness Zones due to the concentrationof facility-based tourism operations and patent landstructures. In the Northern, Central, and SouthernWilderness Zones backcountry travellers will encountera lower level of motorized use. Furthermore, thesignificance and/or sensitivity of the resources withinthese areas will be acknowledged and park policies maylimit or prohibit recreational use to ensure that the

protection of natural and cultural features is notcompromised.

Northern Wilderness*The Northern Wilderness comprises the areawithin Woodland Caribou Provincial Park north ofthe Bloodvein River system (Figure WCPP-2).This area is relatively remote and is mainly accessedthrough a combination of float plane and watertravel. The Northern Wilderness can be enteredfrom the Bloodvein or Chukuni River systems orfrom the Musclow and Keeper River systems to thenorth.

Central Wilderness*The Central Wilderness includes the area betweenthe Bloodvein River and Gammon River systems aswell as the recommended Douglas/Foley Lake,Anchor Lake and Peisk/Lund Lake recommendedpark additions (Figure WCPP-2). The area ischaracterized by a network of small lakes connectedby portages which provide linkage between theGammon and Bloodvein River systems. This areahas good potential for canoe route expansion. It canbe accessed from outside of the park via PipestoneBay (Red Lake) or through the current Johnson Lakeentry point via Douglas and Hatchet Lakes.

Southern Wilderness*The Southern Wilderness includes the Sydney-Rowdy Lake recommended park addition and thearea of the park south of the Gammon River system(Figure WCPP-2). This is currently the mostpopular backcountry canoeing area due to itsaccessibility by road (Leano Lake) and that itprovides a number of possible loop options that donot require a float plane. Although boat caches arecommon in this area, encounters with boats aregenerally less common than elsewhere in the parkdue to the seasonal nature of their use, the result ofa predominantly lake trout fishery.

An existing primary forest access road, crossingbetween Sydney and Rowdy lakes is permitted.

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ager

* The Northern, Central and Southern Wilderness total 432,101 hectares.

Bloodvein Wilderness (11,366 hectares)The Bloodvein Wilderness includes the BloodveinRiver system and Sabourin Lake (Figure WCPP-2).The Bloodvein River, of which 106 kilometres lieswithin Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, wasdesignated as a Canadian Heritage River in 1998.The headwaters of the Bloodvein River will bepartially protected by the Peisk/Lund Lakerecommended park addition and the Pipestone Bay-McIntosh Enhanced Management Area. Waters ofthe Bloodvein River flow west into Manitoba'sAtikaki Provincial Park and on into Lake Winnipeg.Co-ordinated efforts by both provincialgovernments are aimed at protecting these waters.

Gammon Wilderness (10,149 hectares)The Gammon Wilderness follows the GammonRiver and includes Upper Hatchet, Hatchet andDouglas Lakes (Figure WCPP-2). The GammonWilderness can be accessed from outside the parkthrough Onnie or Johnson Lake. TheDouglas/Foley Lake recommended park additionalso provides access through Douglas Lake viaTrout Bay (on Red Lake). Lastly, the GammonWilderness can be accessed from within the parkusing portage and canoe routes from the South andCentral Wilderness.

7.4 Access Zones

Access zones (A) serve as staging areas where minimaldevelopment supports the use of adjacent zones. Theymay offer year-round or seasonal access. Developmentmay include roads, visitor control structures, self-useorientation, interpretive and educational facilities. Toincrease backcountry tourism and recreationopportunities, these staging areas shall range frommaintained tertiary roads to floatplane access to low-intensity, water entry points. The characteristics ofindividual access zones will be determined by themethod of entry, spatial relationship to other zones andcurrent and potential circulation/dispersal patterns ofbackcountry users. These zones do not providecampgrounds or day-use facilities. Road access zonesmay have limited development such as a parking areaand/or a trail to a canoe launch site. Water access zonesmay not have any development and will be restricted to

watercraft only. Air access zones may have a dock witha minimal upland/shore staging area. Access zones willwork collectively to disperse use and provideopportunities for creative exploration of WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park.

7.4.1 Year-round Access ZonesTwenty year-round access zones have been created toprovide access to Woodland Caribou Provincial Park(Figure WCPP-2). These include a combination ofroad (2), water (14), and air (4) access zones.

A1 – Access Zone 1 (97 hectares)Air – A1 is located on the Bloodvein River just westof Artery Lake (Figure WCPP-3). This zone formspart of a small lake which straddles theOntario/Manitoba provincial border. Existingdevelopment on this waterbody consists of anoutpost camp within Atikaki Provincial Park inManitoba. This lake is currently used bycommercial aircraft to service the outpost camp.This lake will also serve as a drop-off point wherebackcountry travellers begin their adventure downthe Bloodvein River to Lake Winnipeg. The AtikakiProvincial Park Draft Management Plan hasidentified the Manitoba portion of this border lakeas an air access zone. For Ontario, focusing accessto this lake through the designation of an accesszone will eliminate aircraft landings on Artery Lake,alleviate some user conflicts and enhance thewilderness character of the area. The use ofsnowmobiles is permitted in this access zone.

A2 – Access Zone 2 (3 hectares)Water – A2 is located in the Northern Wildernesson the Musclow River, approximately fivekilometres east of Musclow Lake (Figure WCPP-14). A2 will work in conjunction with A3 to provideaccess to the Northern and Bloodvein Wilderness.

A3 – Access Zone 3 (2,109 hectares)Air – A3 is located on Sabourin Lake (FigureWCPP-14). Development on this waterbodyconsists of a main base lodge. This access zone willpermit dispersion of use upstream or downstreamon the Bloodvein River and will work inconjunction with A2 to provide access to the


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Northern and Bloodvein Wilderness. Discussionsare ongoing with Sabourin Lake Lodge who haveexpressed an interest in permitting aircraft to usetheir docking facilities to provide safer drop offs andpick ups. The use of snowmobiles is permitted inthis access zone.

A4 – Access Zone 4 (0.3 hectares)Water – A4 is located in the Northern Wildernessapproximately eight kilometres north of BurntwoodLake (Figure WCPP-14). A4 will work inconjunction with A5 to provide access to theNorthern Wilderness.

A5 – Access Zone 5 (1 hectares)Water – A5 is located in the northeast corner ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park at an unnamedlake east of Olive Lake (Figure WCPP-5).Backcountry travellers can enter the park at thislocation after travelling up the Chukuni Riverstarting from the junction of the Chukuni River andPine Ridge Road or by travelling west from ValhallaLake after being dropped off by private orcommercial aircraft. A5 will work in conjunctionwith A4 to provide access to the NorthernWilderness.

A6 – Access Zone 6 (2 hectares)Water – A6 is located just west of Carroll Lake onthe Gammon River (Figure WCPP-6).Backcountry travellers currently entering the park atthis location usually originate from the WallaceLake Provincial Campground in Manitoba.

A7 – Access Zone 7 (0.5 hectares)Water – A7 is located in the Carroll Lake area at theoutflow from Obukowin Lake (Figure WCPP-6).Backcountry travellers currently entering the park atthis location usually originate from the WallaceLake Provincial Campground in Manitoba.

A8 – Access Zone 8 (1,412 hectares)Air – A8 is located in the Gammon Wilderness onDonald Lake (Figure WCPP-7). Donald Lake hasfour patent properties and a two land use permits(private recreational camp and a resource harvestercabin). A8 provides numerous dispersal options and

because of its proximity to Access Zone 13, willwork collectively to provide access to both theCentral and Southern Wilderness. The use ofsnowmobiles is permitted in this access zone.

A9 – Access Zone 9 (3 hectares)Road – A9 is located near Lund Lake (FigureWCPP-15). Access to this zone can be gained bytravelling the Nungessor, Pine Ridge and McIntoshroads (approximately 75 kilometres). This zone willpermit access to the headwaters of the BloodveinRiver via Knox Lake.

A10 – Access Zone 10 (5 hectares)Water – A10 is located along a creek joiningDouglas Lake to the west end of Red Lake in TroutBay (Figure WCPP-16). After paddling or beingshuttled from the community of Red Lake visitorswill use the access zone to enter Douglas Lake.Due to the limited capacity for backcountrytravellers to disperse into this area and because ofthe area’s sensitivity, A10, A11 and A12 will workcollectively to provide and disperse access to theheadwaters of the Gammon River system.

A11 – Access Zone 11 (1 hectares)Water – A11 is located on Douglas Creek (FigureWCPP-16). Access to this zone can be gained bytravelling the Suffel Lake Forest Access Road andentering the park via Johnson Lake. Due to thelimited capacity for backcountry travellers todisperse into this area and because of the area’ssensitivity, A10, A11 and A12 will work collectivelyto provide and disperse access to the headwaters ofthe Gammon River system.

A12 – Access Zone 12 (9 hectares)Water – A12 is located on Hjalmar Lake which isadjacent to the southern section of the PipestoneBay – McIntosh Enhanced Management Area(Figure WCPP-8). Backcountry travellers can accessthe park at this location after beginning their tripvia Johnson Lake (Suffel Lake Forest Access Road)or through Onnie Lake (Iriam Lake Forest AccessRoad). Due to the limited capacity for backcountrytravellers to disperse into this area and because ofthe area’s sensitivity, A10, A11 and A12 will work

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collectively to provide and disperse access to theheadwaters of the Gammon River system.

A13 – Access Zone 13 (252 hectares)Air - A13 is located in the Gammon Wilderness onHansen Lake (Figure WCPP-10). Structuraldevelopment on Hansen Lake consists of one patentproperty that has been divided up into five parcels.A13 provides numerous dispersal options and willwork collectively with A8 to provide access to boththe Central and Southern Wilderness. The use ofsnowmobiles is permitted in this access zone.

A14 – Access Zone 14 (0.8 hectares)Water – A14 is situated on the Wanipigow River justwest of Crystal Lake (Figure WCPP-7).Backcountry travellers entering the park at thislocation usually originate from Wallace Lake inManitoba.

A15 – Access Zone 15 (21 hectares)Water – A15 is located in the southwest corner ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park at Garner Lake(Figure WCPP-9). Most backcountry travellersentering the park at this location originate fromBeresford Lake in Manitoba.

A16 – Access Zone 16 (0.6 hectares)Water – A16 is located north of Eagle Lake,providing entry to the Southern Wilderness via anunnamed lake south of Irregular Lake (FigureWCPP-11). Eagle Lake is located on the peripheryof the park in the Eagle – Snowshoe ConservationReserve. A16, A17 and A18 will work collectively toprovide access to the Southern Wilderness fromEagle Lake.

A17 – Access Zone 17 (0.6 hectares)Water – A17 is located on Eagle Lake, providingentry to the Southern Wilderness via the Bird River(Figure WCPP-11). Eagle Lake is located on theperiphery of the park in the Eagle – SnowshoeConservation Reserve. A16, A17 and A18 will workcollectively to provide access to the SouthernWilderness from Eagle Lake.

A18 – Access Zone 18 (2 hectares)Water – A18 is located on Eagle Lake, providingentry to the Southern Wilderness via the TalonRiver (Figure WCPP-11). Eagle Lake is located onthe periphery of the park in the Eagle – SnowshoeConservation Reserve. A16, A17 and A18 will workcollectively to provide access to the SouthernWilderness from Eagle Lake.

A19 – Access Zone 19 (3 hectares)Road – A19 is located at Leano Lake (FigureWCPP-12). This is currently the most popularentry point in the park as a result of its proximity toa road network (Iriam Lake Road/Mile 51) and theability to disperse quickly into the park. This accesszone provides entry to the Southern Wildernesswhere route options are numerous.

A20 – Access Zone 20 (1 hectares)Water – A20 is located where Rowdy Lake emptiesinto the Sturgeon River (Figure WCPP-13). A20provides alternate access to the SouthernWilderness.

7.4.2 Seasonal Access ZonesIn order to support existing activities while protectingnatural and cultural features and wilderness values,access zones with seasonal conditions is a new approachwhich will be used in the recommended park additions.Creating these seasonal access zones and authorizingexisting trails in the recommended park additions willpermit existing recreational activities (hunting,snowmobiling and private aircraft use) to continue,limit user conflicts and continue to protect provinciallysignificant natural and cultural values. Seasonalconditions will be in effect between September 12 andMarch 31 of the following year, when hunting and icefishing mainly occur.

Reconfiguration of seasonal access zones As5 (PageLake) or As7 (Peterson Lake) in the Anchor Lakerecommended park addition will be required to permitaccess from the adjacent enhanced management area.Similarly, seasonal access zones As9 (Sydney Lake) andAs10 (Rowdy Lake) may also need to be reconfiguredto create access from adjacent Crown land. Suitablelocations will be determined following site inspection


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and collaboration with local users. The parkmanagement plan will be amended when the seasonalaccess zones are reconfigured.

As1 – Peisk Lake ( 790 hectares)Aircraft/snowmobile – As1 is located in the SouthernPeisk/Lund Lakes (219.7 hectares) and NorthernPeisk Lake (3076 hectares) recommended parkadditions and is adjacent to the Pipestone Bay –McIntosh Enhanced Management Area (FigureWCPP-15). This seasonal access zone is located onPeisk Lake.

As2 – Connecting Trail (85 hectares)Snowmobile only – As2 is an existing snowmobile trailin the Southern Peisk/Lund Lakes and NorthernPeisk Lake recommended park additions (WCPP-15). This seasonal access zone includes thesnowmobile trails and two unnamed lakes. As2permits existing access to continue by connectingPeisk Lake with the adjacent Pipestone Bay –McIntosh Enhanced Management Area.

As3 – Crystal Lake (134 hectares)Aircraft/snowmobile – As3 is located in the AnchorLake recommended park addition (Figure WCPP-16). All of Crystal Lake will be zoned seasonalaccess.

As4 – Connecting Trail (2 hectares)Snowmobile only – As4 is located in the Anchor Lakerecommended park addition and is an existingsnowmobile trail that connects As3 (Crystal Lake)with As5 (Page Lake) (Figure WCPP-16).

As5 – Page Lake (168 hectares)Aircraft/snowmobile – Page Lake is located in theAnchor Lake recommended park addition (FigureWCPP- 16). All of Page Lake will be zonedseasonal access.

As6 – Connecting Trail (0.2 hectares)Snowmobile only – As6 is located in the Anchor Lakerecommended park addition and is an existingsnowmobile trail that connects As5 (Page Lake)with As7 (Peterson Lake) (Figure WCPP-16).

As7 – Peterson Lake (177 hectares)Aircraft/snowmobile – Peterson Lake is located in theAnchor Lake recommended park addition (FigureWCPP-16). All of Peterson Lake will be zonedseasonal access.

As8 – Anchor Lake (90 hectares)Aircraft only – Anchor Lake is located in the AnchorLake recommended park addition (Figure WCPP-16). Through public consultation this lake wasidentified to be important for the continuance ofthe permitted activity of hunting in therecommended park addition. All of Anchor Lakewill be zoned seasonal access.

As9 – Sydney Lake (5729 hectares)Aircraft/snowmobile – Sydney Lake is located in theSydney/Rowdy Lakes recommended park addition(Figure WCPP-12, WCPP -13). All of Sydney Lakewill be zoned seasonal access.

As10 – Rowdy Lake (1157 hectares)Aircraft/snowmobile – Rowdy Lake is located in theSydney/Rowdy Lakes recommended park addition(Figure WCPP-13). All of Rowdy Lake will bezoned seasonal access.

7.4.3 Temporary Access ZonesTemporary access zones have been established tofacilitate the phasing out of snowmobile and privateaircraft use from wilderness zones in the existing park.Temporary access zones will provide commercialoutfitters an adequate period of time to communicateroute planning changes to clients. All temporary accesszones will be in effect from the approval date of thismanagement plan. After the phase out period a minoramendment to the park management plan will becompleted to revoke the temporary access zone(s). Atthat time the Provincial Parks and ConservationReserves Act regulations will be amended to indicatewhich lakes private aircraft can land on.

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At1 – Snowmobile – Included in At1 are Linge, MiddleKilburn, Upper Kilburn, Haggart, Bulging, BrokenArrow, Crystal and Carroll Lakes as well asassociated trails within the boundary of the zone asdepicted in Figure WCPP- 17. This zone will existfor two years from the approval date of this plan.

At2 – Snowmobile - Included in At2 are Blueberry,Dragon, Talon, Larus, Thicketwood and IndianHouse Lakes as well as associated trails within theboundary of the zone as depicted in Figure WCPP-17. This zone will exist for five years from theapproval date of this plan.

At3 – Snowmobile – Included in At2 are Sylvia, Douglasand Hatchet and Murdoch Lakes as well asassociated trails within the boundary of the zone asdepicted in Figure WCPP- 17. This zone will existfor eight years from the approval date of this plan.

At4 – Snowmobile – Included in At2 are Knox, Veronica,Bilko and Beaver Lakes as well as associated trailswithin the boundary of the zone as depicted inFigure WCPP- 17. This zone will exist for 10 yearsfrom the approval date of this plan.

At5 – Aircraft – This zone will exist for four years fromthe approval date of this plan. Lakes included in At5are depicted in Figure WCPP-18

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park will be managed inaccordance with the policies identified for wildernessclass parks in Ontario Provincial Parks: Planning andManagement Policies (1992). The park is located withinOntario’s Living Legacy (OLL) planning area and istherefore also subject to policies in the OLL Land UseStrategy.

The following policies will guide the management ofpark resources consistent with the Endangered SpeciesAct, the Provincial Parks Act and with the requirementsof the Environmental Assessment Act. All resourcemanagement projects will be undertaken consistentwith the Parks and Conservation Reserves ClassEnvironmental Assessment.

In this section, direction is provided to integrateprotection and management of the resources inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. Although resourcepolicies are described under various headings, allplanning and management will recognize that thesecomponents are interdependent in the context of thepark and the surrounding landscape. Ecosystems arecontinuously transforming in response to changingconditions and influences, therefore, an adaptivemanagement approach will be applied to resourcemanagement activities within Woodland CaribouProvincial Park. Adaptive management allows formodification of management strategies in response tomonitoring and analysis of results from past actions.

The effects of climate change may influence theresource management policies of Woodland CaribouProvincial Park over the long term, and possibly withinthe 20 year context of this plan (section 1.2). Theseeffects should be considered during any reviews of thisplan, and management strategies adapted accordingly.

Ontario Parks will continue to encourage opencommunication and the maintenance of relationshipswith adjacent Crown land stakeholders and managers(MNR Field Services Division, Mining and Forestry

industries, Whitefeather Forest) to ensure park valuesare protected and landscape issues, such as woodlandcaribou management, are co-operatively addressed.This will include involvement in forest managementplanning processes and other land use planninginitiatives on a case-by-case basis.

8.1 Terrestrial Ecosystem Management

Terrestrial ecosystems and the biodiversity withinWoodland Caribou Provincial Park will be documentedthrough inventories, assessments and research (section9.6). Every effort will be made to manage ecosystemson a landscape level. The intent will be to maintainecological health by supporting biodiversity and anevolving natural succession of communities.

8.1.1 VegetationThe majority of plant species found in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park are typical of a boreal foresthowever, there are a significant number of residentprairie species and the resulting mixed communities arerepresented in the park. The prairie and boreal habitatmosaic has been fashioned by wildfire dynamics and firesuppression efforts. The park currently provides criticalhabitat, winter and summer, for forest-dwellingwoodland caribou. This complex landscape requires aspecific vegetation plan. The vegetation plan will bedeveloped in a separate process and will include publicconsultation.

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8.0 Resource Management Policies

Trees may be selectively removed by authorizedpersons for the purpose of constructing infrastructuresuch as portages and campsites. Dead material may beused for firewood. Commercial tourism operators andowners of private recreational residences are requiredto obtain authorization from the Park Superintendentto collect firewood. This authorization will ensure theprotection of sensitive features within the park.Commercial forestry operations are not permitted inthe park.

Non-native plant species will not be deliberatelyintroduced into the park. In this plan, non-native plantspecies includes flora not native to Woodland CaribouProvincial Park and the ecoregion it is intended torepresent (section 2.0). Where feasible, control actionswill be taken to eliminate or reduce the threat of non-native species which may negatively affect the health ordiversity of naturally occurring populations. Extirpatednative species may be reintroduced and existingpopulations replenished, if determined to be importantfor perpetuating park values. When managementcontrols are necessary, techniques will be used so as tominimize effects on other components of the parkenvironment.

Commercial harvesting is not permitted in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park except for wild rice harvestingby First Nations with traditional use in the park.

The location of sensitive plant communities will not beadvertised to prevent damage and unauthorizedspecimen collection.

8.1.2 Forest Fire ManagementMNR and Ontario Parks recognizes fire as an essentialecosystem process, fundamental to maintaining orrestoring the ecological sustainability of protected areasin the boreal forest region. Wildfire is recognized asthe most influential natural force acting on the forestedecosystems of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.

In association with the vegetation management plan(section 8.1.1), fire management planning will beundertaken in co-operation with the Aviation andForest Fire Management Branch and otherstakeholders. A fire management plan will further

develop objectives and protection priorities, and guideimplementation through fire response and fire use.Until such time that a fire management plan for thepark is approved, fire management within the park willbe carried out in accordance with the Forest FireManagement Strategy for Ontario (OMNR, 2004).

Fire management involves the protection of values andthe attainment of resource stewardship objectivesthrough two main areas:Fire response: The protection of people, property and

natural areas from wildfire and; Fire use: The strategy of maintaining fire as an

ecological process or meeting resource managementobjectives through the application or managementof prescribed fire.

The Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario providesstrategic direction for the management of wildfireacross the province. Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkis located within the Parks Fire Management Zoneaccording to this provincial strategy.

Fires in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park willgenerally receive a full response, within the firemanagement program capacity. Sustained actionrequires the approval of a Fire Assessment Report(FAR). Modified or Monitored Response will be used inconsultation with the Park Zone Manager and/or theirdesignate. The Interim Fire Response Strategy forWoodland Caribou Provincial Park will be used toassist in establishing response priorities.

8.1.3 Insects and DiseaseInsects and disease are an essential part of anyecosystem. Though infestations of insects and diseasesare natural, they may be actioned where cultural,natural, aesthetic, or adjacent economic values arethreatened. Where feasible, control actions will betaken to eliminate or reduce the threat of non-nativespecies which may negatively affect the health ordiversity of naturally occurring populations. In thisplan, non-native species includes those not native toWoodland Caribou Provincial Park and the ecoregionit is intended to represent (section 2.0).Whenmanagement controls are necessary, they will be appliedas directly as possible to the target insect or disease so


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as to minimize effects on other components of the parkenvironment. Biological controls will be used inpreference to chemical applications, whenever feasibleand appropriate.

8.1.4 WildlifeThe Woodland Caribou Signature Site lies withinWildlife Management Units 2, 2P and 3. Wildlifeobjectives for the Woodland Caribou Signature Site willbe addressed in the development of a managementstrategy for the North West Region.

Animal populations may be controlled when essential tohuman health and safety, the health of the species outsidethe park or the values for which the park has beenestablished. Where control is necessary, techniques will beused having minimal effects on other components of thepark’s environment.

The primary wildlife management objective for WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park will be to protect and maintainthe resident forest-dwelling woodland caribou population.This will involve the periodic monitoring of thepopulation and the protection of critical habitat areas suchas winter habitat and calving/nursing areas. Vegetationmanagement will play a critical role in maintainingsufficient areas of critical habitat for woodland caribou. Non-native wildlife species such as birds, mammals,reptiles, will not be deliberately introduced into thepark. In this plan, non-native species includes those

not native to Woodland Caribou Provincial Park andthe ecoregion it is intended to represent (section 2.0).Where feasible, control actions will be taken toeliminate or reduce the threat of non-native specieswhich may negatively affect the health or diversity ofnaturally occurring populations. Appropriate methodsof population control may be undertaken directly byOntario Parks or through partnerships under the strictsupervision of Ontario Parks. Extirpated native speciesmay be reintroduced and existing populationsreplenished, if determined to be important forperpetuating park values. When management controlsare necessary, techniques will be used so as to minimizeeffects on other components of the park environment.

8.1.4.1 HuntingHunting is not permitted in the existing WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park, however, hunting is permittedin the recommended park additions with considerationfor safety and conservation. Hunting is not permitted innature reserve zones within recommended parkadditions. Recreational hunting will be undertakenconsistent with regulations under the Fish and WildlifeConservation Act.

Existing Bear Management Areas located in therecommended park additions can continue. No newbear hunting operations will be permitted.

Hunting in the recommended park additions dependson a suitable access strategy. Seasonal access zones(section 9.3.5) have been created which will supporthunting while also protecting park values. Seasonalaccess zones will be in effect between September 12and March 31 of the following year.

8.1.4.2 TrappingThere are 26 registered traplines located wholly orpartially within Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.Currently, 18 traplines are held by First Nationtrappers, six traplines are held by non-native trappersand two traplines are vacant. Licensed commercialtrapping by non-natives will be phased out of theexisting Woodland Caribou Provincial Park byDecember 31, 2009. Existing commercial fur harvestingwill be permitted to continue in the recommendedwilderness park additions indefinitely. No new traplines

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will be permitted in the existing park or recommendedpark additions. Vacant traplines will be allocated toFirst Nations with traditional use in the park.Allocation will be done in consultation with FirstNations. Any relocation or construction of trails andcabins will be subject to ecological principles andconsideration of park values.

8.1.5 Land Management and DispositionThe management of landforms and activities on theland in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park will aspireto maintain the ecological health of the wildernesslandscape and protection of values for which the parkwas created. Protection of special or representativeearth features of the park will be a priority for landmanagement in the park. This will include theprotection of significant surficial and bedrockgeological features by means of nature reserve orwilderness zone designations, re-routing of existingportages, designating campsites, or refining boundarieswhere necessary.

To provide for recreation and tourism opportunities,while protecting the park environment, it is necessaryto manage land use. Various land-use activities andtenures are permitted within parks. It is necessary tomanage existing land dispositions to protect significantnatural and cultural features. Any new dispositions willbe consistent with wilderness park policy and meetwilderness park objectives.

8.1.5.1 MiningThere are no existing mining activities within theexisting Woodland Caribou Provincial Park or therecommended park additions. New mining activity,including prospecting, staking of mining claims,development of mines, or the extraction of aggregateswill not be permitted in the park or the recommendedpark additions.

8.1.5.2 Commercial TourismThere are 12 resource-based tourism operations with23 facilities located within Woodland CaribouProvincial Park. Three are main base lodges located onpatent land, three are main base lodges with Crownlease tenure and 17 are outpost camps with Land UsePermit (LUP) tenure. Most tourism operations andtheir facilities are located along the Gammon andBloodvein River systems. Existing tourism operations inwilderness parks and related activities such asmotorboating will remain but are subject toconsiderations (Appendix WCPP-1). The ParkSuperintendent may authorize improvements toexisting facilities and services on a case-by-case basis.New tourism operations may be considered providedthey are consistent with wilderness park policies andobjectives. Transfer of existing tourism operationsunder LUP or Crown lease tenure will be subject toreview and approval by Ontario Parks.

Additional conditions to commercial tourism operationsunder LUP or Crown lease may be applied shouldsustainability of the resource be at issue. Commercialtourism operations on patent land may be subject toresource-use regulations.

8.1.5.3 Private Recreation CampsThere are four private recreation camps with LUPtenure within the existing Woodland CaribouProvincial Park which are scheduled to be phased outby December 31, 2009. Infrastructure is to be removedand the site returned to as original a state as possible.There is one private recreation camp with Crown leasetenure in the Sydney/Rowdy Lake recommended parkaddition. As stated in the Ontario’s Living Legacy LandUse Strategy, existing private recreation camps inrecommended park additions will be permitted tocontinue. No new private recreation camps will bepermitted within the existing Woodland CaribouProvincial Park or the recommended park additions.


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8.1.5.4 Patent LandsTwelve parcels of patent land exist within WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. Three parcels are commercialtourism establishments and nine are classed as privatesummer resort locations. One of these parcels containsfive separate lots, akin to a sub-division. Theacquisition of patent land is a goal of this managementplanning process and will be approached on a case-by-case basis. Commercial tourism operations and privaterecreation originating from patent land within the parkmay be subject to resource-use regulations.

8.2 Aquatic Ecosystem Management

The maintenance of healthy aquatic ecosystems is apriority for Woodland Caribou Provincial Park. As theneed arises and as resources allow, inventory andanalysis will be performed for various components ofthe aquatic ecosystems within the park.

8.2.1 FisheriesThe priority for fisheries management will be toprotect native fish communities and maintain healthy,naturally reproducing, high-quality fisheries. In orderto protect native gene pools and fish communities, nostocking or introductions will be permitted within thepark unless required to supplement threatened nativepopulations.

In co-operation with research partners (section 9.6),additional aquatic analysis and inventory work will becompleted in order to better understand the currentstate of the fisheries resource in Woodland CaribouProvincial Park. If it is determined that more directionis needed, a fisheries management plan will beprepared. Park users and stakeholders may beapproached to participate in special management andfisheries assessment programs.

8.2.1.1 Sport FishingRecreational fishing is subject to provincial and federalfisheries regulations, (the Fish and WildlifeConservation Act and the Fisheries Act (Canada), as setout in the Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary.Consideration was given to placing conditions on sportfishing such as prohibiting lead tackle or live bait, butwill not be implemented at this time. Such management

options may again be considered with the developmentof a fisheries management plan. With the support of theAdvisory Committee, tourism operators and the public, a‘conservation limit only’ regulation will be pursued forWoodland Caribou Provincial Park in an attempt toensure the maintenance of high quality fishingopportunities and to promote conservation ethics.

Non-native fish species will not be deliberately releasedinto the park. In this plan, non-native species includesthose not native to Ontario or the ecoregion it isintended to represent (section 2.0). Appropriatemanagement controls may be undertaken directly byOntario Parks or through partnerships under the strictsupervision of Ontario Parks. Extirpated native speciesmay be reintroduced or existing populationsreplenished, if determined to be important forperpetuating park values. When management controlsare necessary, techniques will be used so as to minimizeeffects on other components of the park environment.

Smallmouth bass were introduced into Sabourin Lakein 1958 and the population has now expanded toinclude Thicketwood Lake, Musclow Lake, BarclayLake, Mary’s Lake and other lakes connected toSabourin Lake by the Bloodvein River. Thisintroduction may have harmful effects on the nativefisheries community (walleye/pike) through directcompetition. Research on this population is necessaryto evaluate the current status and further assess thepotential impacts. An education program will beimplemented to inform park guests of the effects ofnon-native introductions.

8.2.1.2 Commercial Fishing and Bait HarvestingCommercial fishing and commercial bait fishing areprohibited in wilderness class parks. Commercialfishing does not presently occur in Woodland CaribouProvincial Park and new operations will not bepermitted. Commercial bait harvesting will be phasedout of the existing park by December 31, 2009. Existingcommercial bait harvesting will be permitted tocontinue in the recommended wilderness park additionsindefinitely. No new commercial baitfish operationswill be permitted in the recommended park additions.

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8.2.2 Water ManagementCommercial hydro-electric development is notpermitted in provincial parks. Ontario Parks willprovide plan input and review to developmentproposals adjacent to the park.

8.3 Cultural Ecosystem Management

Ontario Parks will work in partnership with local FirstNations to plan and implement measures to maintainthe integrity of Aboriginal sites throughout WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. Ontario Parks will consultwith First Nations on matters pertaining to Aboriginalhistory, sites in the park associated with Aboriginalculture, interpretation of Aboriginal history and theappropriate use of cultural artifacts.

Ontario Parks will continue to work with the Ministryof Culture in the inventory, protection andmaintenance of archaeological and historical siteswithin the park. Licensed archaeologists may bepermitted to carry out investigations with prior writtenapproval from Ontario Parks and under the supervisionof the Ministry of Culture. Significant archaeologicaldiscoveries may necessitate alterations to futuredevelopment plans or park zoning.

Cultural resources will be managed to ensure theirprotection and to provide opportunities for heritageappreciation and research (where these activities do notimpair the resource). In order to protect culturalresources from human disturbance, the location ofthese sites will not be promoted in order to prevent theunauthorized collection of artifacts. The unauthorizedremoval of artifacts or the destruction of historicalfeatures is prohibited and illegal.

8.3.1 Bloodvein Canadian Heritage RiverThe Bloodvein River is recognized by the CanadianHeritage Rivers System (CHRS) for its outstandingnatural and cultural values and recreationalopportunities. As part of the MNR’s responsibilitiesunder the CHRS and its related guidelines, activitieswhich may affect river values will be monitored. Theparameters chosen for monitoring will relate tomaintaining the integrity of the park. Ontario Parkswill report any changes in the condition of the riverand values for which it was designated to the CHRSBoard through the annual CHRS report. Every 10years a “State-of-the-River” report will also besubmitted to the board.

A resource management strategy, reflecting wildernessclass park policies, was written for the BloodveinCanadian Heritage River in 1998. Where directionbetween this park management plan and the 1998resource management strategy differ, the strategy willbe amended.


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A park operating plan will be prepared to provide parkstaff with the necessary direction required to operate thepark on a day-to-day basis. In addition to addressing theoperational policies that follow, the park operating planwill include administration, staffing, occupational healthand safety, maintenance schedules, enforcement andemergency services. The provisions of the operating planwill be consistent with the approved Ontario ProvincialParks Minimum Operating Standards (1992). The operatingplan will be reviewed annually and revised as required

9.1 Recreation Management

Recreation management aspires to provide a variety ofrecreational opportunities while minimizing negativeenvironmental impacts in recognition of the park'ssignificant landscape. In particular, low-intensityrecreational activities which enable visitors to relate tothe park environment and appreciate its natural andcultural values will be encouraged.

Ongoing evaluation of the park’s recreational resources iscritical to the establishment of use targets and recreationmanagement prescriptions. Initial priorities formonitoring which have been identified include: fish andwildlife populations, resource use, group size, trip length,compliance with conditions on LUPs and Crown leases,and the condition of backcountry campsites andportages. These will be further expanded or modified asinformation is collected and as resources permit.Monitoring is integral to the management, long-termprotection and sustainability of park resources.

9.1.1 Backcountry TravelA visitor management program will be introduced inorder to minimize environmental deterioration, protectnatural and cultural features, and to maintain a qualitywilderness experience. This program will be based onan ongoing assessment of recreational impacts on parkresources and implemented through a quota-basedentry system.

Through the visitor management program, campingpermits will be issued based on a daily or weekly entryquota for each access zone. By managing access to thepark through an entry-based quota system, visitors willbe dispersed more evenly into the park. This willreduce areas of concentration, reduce user conflicts andadvance environmental protection. A visitormanagement program can also provide increasedprotection for woodland caribou by distributing usersaway from critical habitat during key periods.

The visitor management program will be a componentof the park operating plan and will be phased in as uselevels dictate.

9.1.2 CampsitesRegulations limiting campsite occupancy to one partyper site will continue. The maximum party size willremain at nine people. Campsites will be monitored forsite deterioration including unauthorized structures,tree damage, litter, root exposure, loss of vegetativeground cover and human waste. If required, limitationsmay be imposed on specific lakes or at campsitessituated within specific areas of the park, particularly inthe vicinity of access zones and central travel corridors.

As part of the visitor management program, adesignated campsite system will be implemented thatwill restrict use to authorized campsites as designatedon a park map. The use of authorized campsites will

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9.0 Operations Policies

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lessen the chance that rare plant species or significantplant communities will be inadvertently impacted, willprovide protection to the numerous cultural valueslocated throughout the park by subtly directing visitorsaway from these sensitive areas, will disperse visitors toreduce user conflicts and will enhance the overallwilderness experience. It is important to implement asystem which ensures that visitors experience themaximum freedom of choice once entry to the interioris gained. Visitors will be able to choose from a numberof identified campsites on a first-come, first-serve basis.The establishment of new campsites by park users willnot be permitted.

The designated campsite system will also includeseasonally regulating campsites on islands andpeninsulas in areas of importance to woodland caribousuch as calving and nursing areas. These campsites willbe identified on the campsite map and will be closedfrom May 1 to June 30 of each year.

Open fires will be permitted in the park, unless aRestricted Fire Zone (RFZ) has been put in place bythe Aviation and Forest Fire Management Branch. Parkstaff will work closely with Fire staff in the promotionof fire safety and prevention messages.

9.1.3 LitterRegulations pertaining to litter under the ProvincialParks Act will be strictly enforced. Glass bottles,outside of tenured land, will be banned in all zonesfollowing the approval of this management plan. Thecontinued use of cans was determined to be acceptable.Park staff will communicate with park users,commercial and private, to eliminate litter in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. A “pack it in – pack it out”policy will be enthusiastically promoted.

9.1.4 Shorelunch AreasAs part of the facility-based tourism experience,shorelunch areas are used on a regular basis in someareas of the park. Shorelunch opportunities cancontinue with conditions and will require authorizationfrom the Park Superintendent.


Motorboats and aircraft are the main means ofmotorized travel within the park however snowmobilesand all terrain vehicles (ATV’s) are also used.Motorized travel occurs for private recreation,commercial tourism and licenced resource harvesting(commercial trapping, bait fishing). Motorized travelwill be limited to promote backcountry camping andcanoeing experiences and will continue to moveWoodland Caribou Provincial Park further along thewilderness continuum.

9.2.1 MotorboatsMotorboats are used in Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark for commercial tourism, sport fishing, trappingand access to private property. Motorboats are also usedby First Nation peoples to carry out their traditionalactivities.

Motorboats used in commercial tourism operations inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park will be permittedon specific lakes and will be subject to horsepowerrestrictions. (Appendix WCPP-1). This also applies tocommercial tourism motorboat use originating fromManitoba. In general, a maximum of 10 horsepowerwill apply for all watercraft except on Carroll, Sydney,Rowdy, Sabourin, Barclay, Mary’s and Simeon Lakeswhere increased horsepower will be permitted. Themain base tourism operations located on Sydney,Sabourin, Douglas, Carroll and Rowdy Lakes will bepermitted one motor of a larger horsepower than listedin Appendix WCPP-1. This watercraft will be used foremergency and camp operations only. All horsepowerregulations will take effect on January 1, 2010. Also seesection 9.4.1 and 9.4.2.

Motorboat use is permitted on lakes where resourceharvester operations occur, such as commercial trappingor bait fishing).

Motorboat use by private residents is generally notpermitted in wilderness class parks however motorboatuse by owners of patent land in Woodland CaribouProvincial Park will be allowed to continue as a non-conforming use until such time as the patent land isacquired by Ontario Parks. Motorboat use will be


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restricted to the lake where the patent land is locatedand to any connecting lake (navigable systems) that canbe reached without portaging. Horsepower restrictionswill apply (Appendix WCPP-1) and will take effect onJanuary 1, 2010.

Private motorboat use originating from Manitoba willnot be permitted. Dialogue regarding management ofboundary waters with respect to the Ontario-ManitobaBoundary Waters Agreement such as fisheriesmanagement and motorized use, will be renewedbetween the two provinces, specific to WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. The roller portage locatedadjacent to Artery Lake is permitted.

Personal watercraft (jet skis) are currently not used forrecreation in the park and will be prohibited based onmanufacturer standards which exceed the maximumhorsepower permitted.

On all other lakes, motorized travel will be prohibitedexcept for emergency situations and enforcement orpark operation purposes.

9.2.2 SnowmobilesRecreational snowmobiling occurred in some areas ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park and the parkadditions prior to 1983. Snowmobiling occurs mainly toaccess lakes for ice fishing but also for hunting in the parkadditions. Recreational snowmobiling in the existingpark is inconsistent with wilderness park policy.Management planning has resulted in the direction toeliminate this non-conforming use from the existing park.

This action will be phased-in over a 10 year periodupon approval of this document. This phase-outstrategy will allow Ontario Parks and MNR to workwith local snowmobile enthusiasts to determine new orappropriate routes of access through the enhancedmanagement area or adjacent Crown land to therecommended park additions where snowmobiling willbe permitted on authorized trails and lakes throughseasonal access zoning (section 9.3.5).

Figure WCPP-17 shows the areas where recreationalsnowmobiling currently takes place in the existing parkand illustrates the phase-out strategy. Following theapproval of this management plan, recreationalsnowmobiling in the existing park will only bepermitted in areas identified as seasonal access zones orin temporary access zones (sections 7.4.2 and 7.4.3).

At the end of year two, recreational snowmobiling inthe Linge, Middle Kilburn, Upper Kilburn, Haggart,Bulging, Broken Arrow, Crystal and Carroll Lakes willno longer be permitted. At the end of year five,recreational snowmobiling in the Blueberry, Dragon,Talon, Larus, Thicketwood and Indian House Lakeareas will no longer be permitted. At the end of yeareight, recreational snowmobiling in the Sylvia, Douglasand Hatchet and Murdoch Lake areas will no longer bepermitted. At the end of the phase-out period, year 10,recreational snowmobiling will conclude in the existingpark in the Knox, Veronica, Bilko and Beaver Lakeareas. At the end of the 10 year phase out period, areview of this decision will take place to considerextending the temporary access zone on Knox Lake.The review will be based on criteria such as but notlimited to: park use, litter, re-occupancy of caribou tothe area, fishery sustainability, effect on remote tourismoperations and other existing winter recreationalopportunities outside the park.

Grooming of snowmobile trails will not be permitted inany form.

9.2.3 All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s)ATV’s will not be permitted for recreational use inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. ATV’s will bepermitted for use associated with tourism operationsbut will be restricted to the tenured boundary of theoperation.

9.2.4 Private AircraftFollowing the approval of this plan, private aircraft willbe permitted to land in areas identified as temporaryaccess zones (section 7.4.3) for four years (FigureWCPP-18). Four years after the approval of this plan,private aircraft use will be permitted to land only inyear-round air access zones, seasonal air access zones

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and at commercial tourism facilities as long as theindividuals are registered guests at the facility.

Patent land owners and immediate family will bepermitted to use their own private aircraft to accesstheir private property (section 9.3.1).

Licenced trappers and commercial bait fishers will bepermitted to use their private aircraft for the purpose ofresource harvesting.

All private aircraft wishing to land in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park for any purpose requires theauthority of the superintendent. Permit fees may apply.

9.2.5 Private Boat CachesRemote fly-in boat caches for private recreational usecurrently exist in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.To encourage high quality backcountry tourismopportunities and to conform with park policy, privateboat caches will be phased out of the existing park.Individuals with boat cache authorization will bepermitted to access their cached boats in the existingpark for a period of four years after the approval of thisdocument. At that time the boat cache agreement will becancelled, the boat will be removed and the site will beleft in a natural condition. Ontario Parks will work withthese users to find alternative locations outside the park.

Authorized private boat caches located in seasonalaccess zones of the park additions will be permitted toremain, however four years after the regulation date ofthe recommended park additions, use of these boatswill be limited to the dates associated with the seasonalaccess zone.

Owners of patent land may continue to use currentlyauthorized private boat caches to gain access to theirproperty.

9.3 Access

Access to the park through the establishment of accesszones (section 7.4) is intended to encourageopportunities for remote backcountry recreational

experiences. Access zones used in conjunction with avisitor management program (section 9.1.1) willdisperse use and add to the protection of park values.Access to the park at locations other than designatedaccess zones must be approved by the ParkSuperintendent.

Access to the park may require additional controls ifthere are found to be negative impacts on natural orcultural values, unreasonable conflicts with park users,or new uses are established which are not appropriatein a wilderness class park.

9.3.1 Air AccessAll aircraft landing in the park will require priorauthorization through a valid aircraft landing authorityfrom Ontario Parks. Permit fees may apply.

Air access by commercial air services will be permittedin access zones which are designated for aircraft landing(section 7.4), at commercial tourism facilities, at privateproperty and at authorized remote boat cache locations.Aircraft owned by commercial operators with tourismoperations within the park are permitted to land tomaintain their operations (facility and boat caches).

Private air access will be permitted in year-round andseasonal air access zones. Private air access will also bepermitted at commercial tourism facilities providing theoccupant(s) is a registered guest of the facility. Privateaircraft owned by landowners and immediate family5

will be permitted for access to their private property.

Air access by licenced resource harvesters is permitted(section 9.4.2).

Temporary access zones (private and commercialaircraft) have been established to facilitate a phasing outof aircraft landings in wilderness zones (section 7.4.3).

Resource harvesters are permitted to use their ownaircraft or commercial aircraft to access theiroperations.


295. Immediate family” as defined in the Fisheries and Wildlife Conservation Act (Regulation 665/98).

9.3.2 Aircraft ProtocolAlthough the objective of wilderness class parksdiscourages mechanized travel, such travel is permittedwithin the park to support tourism and somerecreational activities within the park. Aircraft also flyover the park in all directions to destinations outsidethe park. Regulations are not being proposed on flightsover the park at this time but it is noted that in TP14371 of the Transport Canada AeronauticalInformation Manual (TC-AIM), under section 1.14.5 ofthe Rules of the Air and Air Traffic Services (RAC)portion it states, “To preserve the natural environmentof parks, reserves and refuges and to minimize thedisturbance to the natural habitat, overflights shouldnot be conducted below 2,000 above ground level(AGL).” Specific to woodland caribou, section 1.14.3of the manual states “pilots should not fly at an altitudeless than 2,000 feet AGL when in the vicinity of herdsof reindeer or caribou.”

9.3.3 Road AccessDevelopment will occur at two existing road accesslocations, Lund Lake and Leano Lake. These are theonly road access zones into Woodland CaribouProvincial Park and new road access is not planned.These zones will work in conjunction with the visitormanagement program. The Lund Lake road accesszone (A9) will improve access to the BloodveinCanadian Heritage River and backcountryopportunities in the northern section of the park. TheLeano Lake road access zone will permit continuedaccess to the south which has well establishedbackcountry canoeing and camping opportunities.Development in each of these access zones will consistof a small parking area.

The Leano Lake road access zone (A19) depends on thepresence of the Iriam Road. Since forestry operationswhich would use the road are not planned for theforeseeable future, Abitibi Consolidated has identifiedtheir intention to formally abandon the Iriam Road(Whiskey Jack Forest 2004 to 2024 Forest ManagementPlan). This would include the section of Iriam Roadimmediately south of the Cook Road to the junction ofthe Iriam and South Pakwash Roads. Secondary andtertiary roads off of the Iriam Road along this sectionwould also be abandoned. Negotiations are anticipated

to facilitate a maintenance agreement for the IriamRoad as well as a portion of the Cook Road and Mile51 Road so that public use can continue. Negotiatingparties could include: Ontario Parks and Field ServicesDivision of MNR, the forest industry, backcountryoutfitters, a local facility-based operator, the OntarioFederation of Anglers and Hunters, the Municipalitiesof Red Lake and Ear Falls, trappers and the miningindustry. Access to Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkvia Leano Lake will depend on the outcome of thesenegotiations.

9.3.4 Water AccessWater access zones will also work in conjunction withthe visitor management program. These access zonesare moderate to highly remote and are reached viaforest access roads in Ontario and Manitoba; requiringa few hours to a few days of paddling. No developmentexcept for appropriate signage will occur.

9.3.5 Seasonal AccessSeasonal access zones are located at the periphery ofthe park and have been created to support approvedactivities in the recommended park additions as a resultof the Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy.Seasonal access zones will have timing restrictionsapplied, such as access permitted between September12 to March 31 of the following year. Activities inseasonal access zones will be monitored and shouldsustainability of the resource be at risk, quota-basedentry regulations may be applied.

9.4 Commercial Tourism

Facility-based commercial tourism has existed in whatnow is known as Woodland Caribou Provincial Parksince 1948. Existing commercial tourist operations willremain (subject to possible restrictions). New tourismopportunities and changes to existing operations maybe considered (section 8.1.5.2).

Boat caches are boats that are stored on park land andused for a variety of purposes. In Woodland CaribouProvincial Park, boat caches are used to supportfacility-based tourism operations, resource harvestingand transportation to private land. There are two maintypes of boat caches within the park: portage-to boat

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caches and remote fly-in boat caches. All cached boatsmust have and meet the conditions of an approvedOntario Parks Boat Cache Agreement.

9.4.1 Portage-to Boat CachesPortage-to boat caches have been identified as animportant component of facility-based tourism in thepark. Portage-to boat caches are situated on lakes thatare adjacent to the main facility via portage trails. Thistype of opportunity has provided an alternateexperience to the user as well as dispersing the fishingpressure over a series of lakes. Portage-to boat cachesare viewed as part of the existing tourism operationsand will remain, with possible restrictions. In caseswhere the portage trails are shared by both facility andbackcountry clients, mooring structures, such as ramps,may be permitted to relieve congestion at portage trailheads. Storage structures will be permitted to organizeand secure equipment. Specifications depictingrestrictions, size, type and location of additional storagewill be part of an Ontario Parks Boat CacheAgreement. Should motors be required for portage toboat caches, horsepower restrictions will apply(Appendix WCPP -1)

9.4.2 Remote Fly-in Boat CachesIn Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, remote fly-inboat caches are accessed by aircraft and used bycommercial operators whose facilities are based bothwithin and outside of the park. The planning processhas confirmed that action should be taken to supportand encourage high quality remote backcountryadventure tourism opportunities. This direction hasresulted in the decision to create large areas ofprimarily non-motorized use through the removal ofremote fly-in boat caches. This action will have themost effect in the Northern, Central and SouthernWilderness but is not restricted to these zones. Thisaction will affect some operations more than otherstherefore the process will include discussions withindividual operators to ensure a workable strategy isimplemented. The process may involve a series of stepsthat could include: immediate removal, relocation,consolidation, a move to non-motorized caches orseasonal use restrictions. The ultimate goal will be tocreate large, primarily non-motorized areas which willsupport backcountry adventure tourism and carry

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park further along thewilderness continuum. Where motors are permitted,horsepower restrictions will apply (Appendix WCPP-1).

9.5 Natural Heritage Education

The goal of the natural heritage education program isto develop visitor awareness and appreciation ofOntario Parks’ natural and cultural heritage, fostering acommitment to its protection for future generations.Programs will include the three components of NaturalHeritage Education: information, interpretation andoutdoor recreation.

The Natural Heritage Education program provided ina particular park will depend on several factors, onebeing the park classification. In addition to fallingunder a particular park class, all operating parks areassigned a level of service (self-use, seasonal activity, ormajor activity) which determines the extent of theNatural Heritage Education program to be provided.The level of service is based on such criteria as thesignificance of natural and cultural resources,accessibility, level of use and demonstration of visitorneeds. Woodland Caribou Provincial Park is currentlydesignated as self-use.

Strategies for Woodland Caribou Provincial Park’sNatural Heritage Education program will: n provide detailed, up-to-date route informationn foster appreciation for the park’s natural, cultural

and recreational values and the Bloodvein CanadianHeritage River and

n provide information about local attractions andservices.

A Natural Heritage Education plan will be prepared aspart of the park operating plan. Specific programdirection may include, education initiatives designed toenhance awareness of, and involvement in, the park byarea schools and other interest groups such as naturalistclubs, youth groups, structured and unstructuredrecreation opportunities for exploration andappreciation of Aboriginal culture, the fur trade, theearth and life science features, the Bloodvein CanadianHeritage River and interpretive opportunities withpartners of the park.


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9.5.1 InformationOpportunities to learn and gain an

appreciation of the character and significance ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park will be presented inprinted material such as park leaflets, newsletter, trailand canoe route maps, signs and information kiosksand through park staff. Information will be provided onthe park, park system and local attractions. Emphasiswill be placed on management messages such aswilderness ethic, safety in the outdoors, park etiquette,and designated campsites. This self-use level of servicemay be complemented by the development ofinterpretive materials (section 9.5.2). Ontario Parks willwork with local groups, school boards, First Nationsand tourism to develop and distribute information.

9.5.2 InterpretationRelaying information about the natural and culturalresources of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park will bethe focus of interpretation. Themes will includewoodland caribou, geology, cultural legacy and borealforest ecosystems. Through self-use interpretivematerials, visitors will be offered the opportunity toexperience and understand the meaning and purpose ofwilderness.

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park will work inpartnership with local First Nations to ensure that anyinterpretation of Aboriginal cultural features is accurateand appropriate. The direct involvement of local FirstNations in interpretive programs and activities is apriority (section 9.6) and will be encouraged.

9.5.3 Tourism ServicesTourist information is available from the WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park office in Red Lake. As part ofthe tourism objective, Ontario Parks has entered into apartnership with the Red Lake Publicity Board for thepromotion and distribution of information regardingarea provincial parks. This information will bedistributed at the Red Lake Heritage Centre and atvarious sport and adventure shows. Ontario Parks willcontinue to work in co-operation with regional tourismorganizations, local municipalities, and commercialtourism operators to fulfill and optimize parkpromotion and marketing objectives.

9.6 Research and Partnerships

Scientific research and monitoring by qualifiedindividuals and institutions which will be compatiblewith the park’s protection objective and contribute tothe knowledge of natural and cultural history and toenvironmental and recreational management will beencouraged. All research and monitoring will beconducted or authorized by Ontario Parks. Researchprojects will be administered on the basis of park policydirective PM 2.45 and must meet all requirementsunder applicable provincial and federal legislation.Approved research and monitoring activities must beconsistent with Ontario Parks’ Research andInformation Strategy. Temporary facilities in support ofapproved research and monitoring activities may bepermitted.

Individuals and organizations are encouraged toparticipate in the operation of Woodland CaribouProvincial Park. Ontario Parks will remain open to anyinterest in the development of a non-profit cooperativeassociation such as the Friends of Woodland Caribou.Assistance may be sought through partnerships to aidin, for example, environmental cleanup or to enhancenatural heritage education programming.

9.6.1 Pikangikum First Nation/Ontario Parks Partnership

The First Nation of Pikangikum and Ontario Parkshave entered into a partnership for the part of the parkthat is within their traditional lands as defined bytraplines currently held by Pikangikum people ortraplines historically occupied by Pikangikum people.The agreement document deals mainly with two areas,research and interpretation of Ojibway CulturalLandscapes, and economic and cooperative stewardshipopportunities.

Pikangikum and Ontario Parks will explore acooperative partnership which would focus ondocumenting the Pikangikum cultural legacy, both thehistorical and ongoing presence of their people on thelands. This research program will incorporate thestewardship and protection responsibilities for thecultural heritage of Pikangikum First Nation.Interpretation of the Aboriginal cultural heritage within

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the traditional lands of Pikangikum First Nation will bethe shared responsibility of Pikangikum First Nationand Ontario Parks, the scientific responsibility of theoutside research community and the broader scaleresponsibility of Ontario.

Ontario Parks supports the exploration of a partnershipto develop a world-class initiative which could include aresearch, experiential teaching program and visitorcentre related to interpreting First Nation’s culturalheritage. Ontario Parks will not endorse or supportAboriginal cultural heritage interpretation withinWoodland Caribou Provincial Park without theagreement of the associated First Nation. Thepartnership will pursue stewardship opportunitiesconsistent with the protected areas planning frameworkfor Woodland Caribou Provincial Park within thetraditional territories of Pikangikum First Nation.

9.6.2 Manitoba/Ontario Interprovincial Wilderness Area

Ontario Parks and Manitoba Conservation will createan Interprovincial Wilderness Area consisting ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park in Ontario, AtikakiProvincial Park and portions of Nopiming ProvincialPark in Manitoba. Areas of cooperation between theprovinces could include resource management,marketing and operations. In total, these protectedlands encompass approximately one million hectares ofnatural and cultural values.

9.7 Marketing

Visitors to Woodland Caribou Provincial Park includelocal residents, persons from other parts of Ontario,Canada, North America and around the world. Peoplelearn about the park through Ontario Parks’publications and website, commercial tourismoperators, local tourism organizations, word of mouth,and various other publications and internet sites whichpromote adventure travel.

A review of park attractions, management issues andmarketing methods will be ongoing to determine howto raise the awareness and appreciation of park valuesand to increase the safety of visitors and awareness ofthe “leave no trace” ethic for wilderness travel.

Strategies for Woodland Caribou Provincial Park’smarketing program will:

n provide detailed, up-to-date park informationn foster appreciation for the natural, cultural, and

recreational values of the park and the BloodveinCanadian Heritage River

n provide information about local attractions and areaservices and

n promote backcountry and facility-based tourismservices.

Care will be taken to ensure that marketing initiativesdo not create over-use of the park and that the valuesfor which the park was created are protected.


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All development by Ontario Parks, or by partners on itsbehalf will comply with A Class EnvironmentalAssessment for Provincial Parks and Conservationreserves (2004) and will be carried out in accordancewith approved site plans and development plans thatmeet development standards for provincial parks. Areasproposed for development will require prior assessmentfor significant cultural heritage features and naturalvalues, such as species at risk, to ensure these values areidentified and protected at the site.

This section presents the development for WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. Approved site plans andimplementation planning will be completed for alldevelopment projects. The Ministry of NaturalResources’ environmental assessment requirements,which may require prior assessment for significantvalues and further public consultation, will be met priorto project implementation.

Recreational development will be limited in order toprotect the integrity of the resource base and, assure aquality wilderness experience for park visitors.Development will be sufficient only to permitcompatible wilderness activities and to minimize theimpact of user concentrations. Recreationaldevelopment will be restricted primarily to campsitesand portages. It is largely due to this substantiallimitation of recreational development, dictated by thewilderness orientation of the park, that user numbersand concentrations will be managed through a daily orweekly quota entry system and the use of establishedcampsites.

10.1 Portages

Portages will consist of primitive pathways developed toprovide relatively stable and safe passage betweensegments of navigable waterways. As a generalprinciple, neither docks nor signs will be permitted atportage landings, however, in situations involvingextreme hazard, these may be used. Otherwise,

appropriate information on the location of and safeapproach to portages will be provided in the park’svisitor management program literature. Minimalstorage and mooring structures may be permitted withapproval from the Park Superintendent and in keepingwith the wilderness orientation of the park.

The condition of portages will be continuallymonitored as a prerequisite to an ongoing maintenanceprogram. Acceptable portage maintenance will includebrushing, the construction of log walkways andselective surface treatments to provide safe passage orto mitigate erosion.

Opportunities will be sought to expand the presentcanoe route system in areas of the park where betterdispersion of users is required or new experiences maybe created. Portages that require relocation due toexisting environmental damage will be subject to theClass Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parksand Conservation Reserves.

10.2 Campsites

The ongoing inventory and evaluation of existing andpotential campsites will continue in order to determinethe campsite potential of Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark. Campsite potential will not be based solely onphysical criteria but also user tolerance and potentialimpacts on earth and life science features. As a result ofthis inventory some existing campsites may have to berelocated or closed.

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10.0 Development Policies

Ultimately, all authorized campsites will be identifiedon park maps. Permitted campsite maintenanceincludes surface treatment and the discreettransplanting of local native plant species for sitestabilization or rehabilitation.

Information regarding acceptable methods for disposalof human waste will be provided through parkinformation (section 9.5.1).

10.3 MNR Fire Fuel Cache

The Aviation and Forest Fire Management Branch fuelcache on Irvine Lake will be relocated. In 2005,preliminary investigations showed the Irvine Lake areato be an excellent choice for canoe route expansion. Thiswill provide increased backcountry recreationopportunities through new interconnecting routes withinthe Central Wilderness and between the Bloodvein andGammon Wilderness as well as reducing user conflictsand advancing the park along the wilderness continuum.The relocation of the fuel cache and its associated useswill reduce user conflicts in this area.

10.4 Access Zones

Development in access zones will be dictated by themode of access designated for each access zone.Development will be based on the capacity and physicalsuitability of the site, as well as the level of usage andassociated entry quota for the site. Road access zonesmay have limited development such as a parking area ora trail to a canoe launch site. Parking areas will bedeveloped for Lund Lake (A9) and Leano Lake (A19)access zones. Improvements will be made to parkingareas in the Onnie Lake and Johnson Lake areas whichare staging areas for the Douglas Creek (A11) andHjalmar Lake (A12) access zones. Development inwater access zones will be restricted to appropriatesignage. Safe loading and unloading areas within airaccess zones will be identified and may require theconstruction of a dock or a minimal upland or shorestaging area. The location, design and any materialsused will be consistent with the wilderness orientationof the park.

10.5 Trails

At this time, public consultation did not support a day-use interpretive hiking trail as a priority for WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. Should demand for this typeof activity increase, an impact and benefit analysis willbe completed. A trail would be established only wherecompatible with wilderness values and resourcecapacities. An interpretive hiking trail could provide anopportunity for natural and cultural appreciation byindividuals, school and other groups that, due to theremoteness of the park, cannot readily access the parkinterior. Information collected during an analysis willbe presented to the public for comment during a futureplan review.

Some questions regarding the activity of dog sleddingarose during management planning. A specific policyregarding dog sleds in wilderness class parks does notcurrently exist. There is concern regarding the effectsof this activity so until such time that an approvedpolicy is in place, dog sledding will not be permitted inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park.

10.6 Signage

Signage will be used to identify the Woodland CaribouPark Boundary at all entry points and other areas wherethe park may be at risk to development. The location,design and any materials used will be consistent withOntario Parks sign standards and with the wildernessorientation of the park.


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This section presents a summary of the priorities andpolicies to be implemented upon the approval of thispark management plan. In the implementation of theapproved park management plan, Ontario Parks maypursue opportunities for partnerships involving otheragencies and groups. Park development, operations,and resource stewardship will be contingent upon theavailability of funding and unforeseeable changes inpriorities or policy. Implementation of the managementplan and operation of the park will meet therequirements of the Environmental Assessment Act,Environmental Bill of Rights, Provincial Parks Act,Endangered Species Act, and other pertinentlegislation.

All aspects of park management, development, andoperation will be screened and undertaken inaccordance with the requirements of A ClassEnvironmental Assessment for Provincial Parks andConservation Reserves.

Implementation priorities may be established insubsidiary operating and resource stewardship plans.Preparation of these plans may involve an appropriatelevel of public consultation.

11.1 Boundary

n Regulate OLL and Whitefeather Forest andAdjacent Area recommended park additions as partof Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, (section 6.0and WCSS section 10.0).

11.2 Resource Management

n Prepare a vegetation management plan which willconsider Woodland Caribou Provincial Park’sunique prairie-boreal habitat mosaic, critical habitatfor forest-dwelling woodland caribou, aboriginalhabitat manipulation and fire’s role in the ecosystem(section 8.1.1).

n In association with the vegetation managementplan, fire management planning will be undertakenin cooperation with MNR’s fire program. This planwill further develop objectives and protectionpriorities, and guide implementation through fireresponse and fire use (section 8.1.2).

n In order to protect and maintain the resident forest-dwelling woodland caribou population, periodicmonitoring of the population and the protection ofcritical habitat (e.g. winter habitat and calving/nursingareas) will be implemented (section 8.1.4).

n Implement an education program on the effects ofintroducing non-native fish species into a naturalsystem (section 8.2.1.1).

n Pursue conservation limits only for sport fishing inWoodland Caribou Provincial Park (section 8.2.1.1).

n Continue consultation with First Nations and theMinistry of Culture to determine the most effectiveway of protecting significant cultural areas as theyare identified (section 7.2 and section 8.3).

11.3 Operations

n Prepare a park operating plan to provide park staffwith the necessary information required to operatethe park on a day-to-day basis. The park operatingplan will include administration, staffing,occupational health and safety, maintenanceschedules, enforcement and emergency services.The operating plan will be reviewed annually andrevised as required (section 9.0).

n Ongoing evaluation of the recreational resources ofthe park in order to establish use targets andrecreation management prescriptions consistent withthe long-term protection of the park (section 9.1).

n The introduction of a visitor management programbased as determined through an ongoing assessmentof recreational impacts on park resources andimplemented through a quota-based entry system(section 9.1.1).

n A campsite system will be developed which willrestrict use to authorized campsites designated on apark campsite map. Campsites will be periodicallymonitored for site deterioration includingunauthorized structures, tree damage, litter, rootexposure, loss of vegetative ground cover andhuman waste (section 9.1.2).

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11.0 Implementationn Priorities

n Seasonally manage camping on islands andpeninsulas in areas of importance to woodlandcaribou. These campsites will be identified on thepark campsite map and will be closed from May 1 toJune 30 of each year (section 9.1.2).

n Activities in seasonal access zones will be monitoredand should sustainability of the resource be at risk,quota-based entry regulations may be applied. Thetiming restrictions for seasonal access will also bemonitored and re-evaluated on an ongoing basis(section 9.3.5).

n The development of an Ontario Parks Boat CacheAgreement (section 9.4.1).

n Develop and implement a strategy to removeremote fly-in boat caches (section 9.4.2).

n A natural heritage education plan will be preparedas part of the park operating plan. Specific programdirection may include education initiatives designedto enhance awareness of, and involvement in, thepark by area schools and other interest groups suchas naturalist clubs or youth groups. Other initiativescould include structured and unstructuredrecreation opportunities for exploration andappreciation of Aboriginal culture, the fur trade,earth and life science features, and the BloodveinCanadian Heritage River as well as interpretiveopportunities with partners of the park (section 9.5).

n Ontario Parks will work with local groups, schoolboards, the Red Lake Publicity Board, First Nationsand the tourism industry to develop and distributeinformation about the park, park system, local andregional attractions (sections 9.5.3).

n Woodland Caribou Provincial Park will work withPikangikum and other First Nation partners in theresearch and interpretation of Aboriginal culture(section 9.6.1).

n Implement the creation of an InterprovincialWilderness Area in cooperation with the provinceof Manitoba (section 9.6.2).

11.4 Development

n Expand the present canoe route system where betterdistribution of users is required and/or where newexperiences may be created (section 10.1).

n Relocate portages due to environmental damage(section 10.1).

n Inventory and evaluate existing and potentialcampsites to obtain the appropriate campsitepotential of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park. Asa result of this inventory some existing campsitesmay have to be relocated or closed (section 10.2) .

n Develop and improve parking areas at Lund Lakeand Leano Lake access zones respectively. Improveparking areas in the Johnson Lake and Onnie Lakeareas which provide initial access to the DouglasCreek (A11) and Hjalmar Lake (A12) access zones(section 10.4).

n Develop or identify safe loading and unloadingareas within air access zones (section 10.4).

n Construct information kiosks at major entry pointsto relay important park messages for peopleentering the park (section 10.6).


37

An approved park management plan can be reviewed oramended to address changing issues or conditions. Areview may involve a re-assessment of all or part of anapproved plan, including classification, zoning, goal,objectives and all resource management, operations anddevelopment policies. Amendments permit changes tospecific issues and needs but do not alter the overallintent of the plan.

The minimum requirement for a review is once every10 years. The plan will be assessed to determine theneed for amendment or review of the directions. Areview is initiated to ensure the continuing relevance ofthe plan’s contents or to evaluate a proposed changerepresenting a significant departure from the originaldirection and intent of the plan, or in the event that theplan is rendered obsolete during its term (that iscircumstances cause the objectives which direct parkmanagement activities to become unattainable orinappropriate).

An amendment can be considered to address specificchanges which are consistent with the park’sclassification, goal and objectives but differ from thepark’s management policy statements. Anyone caninitiate an amendment process by submitting aproposed amendment with an explanation of itspurpose to Ontario Parks which will determinewhether, and under what conditions, the amendmentprocess should proceed. If approved, the planning,review and approval requirements will depend on thetype of amendment proposed.

38

12.0 Plan Amendment and Review

Bakowsky, Wasyl – 2005. Personal Communication.Natural Heritage Information CommunityEcologist. Natural Heritage Information Centre-Fish and Wildlife, Ministry of Natural Resources.Peterborough, Ontario.

Bastone, Frank – 2005. Personal Communication.Northern Development Advisor. Ministry ofNorthern Development and Mines. Kenora,Ontario.

Bergerud, A.T. and R.E. Page – 1987. Displacement andDispersion of Parturient Caribou at Calving asAntipredatorTtactics. Canadian Journal of Zoology.65: 1597-1606. As cited in Godwin 1990.

Bjorek, S. – 1985. Deglaciation Chronology andRevegetation in Northwestern Ontario. CanadianJournal of Earth Sciences. Vol. 22: 850-871.

Blackburn Geological Services – 2001. Earth ScienceInventory of Additions to Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark. Prepared for Ontario Parks, Ministry ofNatural Resources. 59 p.

Brunton, Daniel F. – 1986. A Reconnaissance Life ScienceInventory of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.Technical report # 2. Ontario Parks, Ministry ofNatural Resources. 161 p.

Creel, Scott et al – 2002. Snowmobile Activity andGlucocorticoid Stress Responses in Wolves and Elk.Conservation Biology. 16 (3) June: 809-814.

Engel Consulting Group (Phil Shantz), in associationswith Dr. Kim Rollins, Lorne Johnson and WillWistowsky – 2004. Study of the Economic and SocialBenefits of the Nine Ontario Living Legacy SignatureSites. Ontario Parks, Ministry of Natural Resources.Year Three; Final Report.

Godwin, L. – 1990. Woodland Caribou in NorthwesternOntario. Ministry of Natural Resources,Northwestern Ontario Boreal Forest Management;Technical Notes TN-07. Thunder Bay, Ontario. 4 p.

Hamilton, G.D. – 1978. Aerial Census of WoodlandCaribou in the West Patricia Planning Area. Ministryof Natural Resources, West Patricia Land Use Plan;Technical Report No. 6. Kenora, Ontario. 13 p.

Hamilton, G.D. – 1979. A Study of Some WoodlandCaribou Wintering Areas Within the West PatriciaPlanning Area. Ministry of Natural Resources, WestPatricia Land Use Plan; Technical Report No. 16.Kenora, Ontario. 21 p.

Hamilton, Scott, Tal Fisher, and Jill Taylor-Hollings –2003. An Overview of the Culture and History of theChapleau Cree First Nation: Cultural Heritage Themes.Report prepared on behalf of Chapleau Cree FirstNation. Chapleau, Ontario.

Harvey, E. – 1979. A Summary of Earth Science Elementsin Woodland Caribou Park Reserve, including LundLake and Telescope Lake Reserves (Patricia Portion,District of Kenora). Ministry of Natural Resources,Northwestern Region Parks and Recreation, WestPatricia Parks; Technical Report No. 1. 121 p.

International Ecotourism Society – 2002. OfficialWebsite. http://www.ecotourism.org/. [Accessed:2002]


39

13.0 References

International Union for the Conservation of Natureand Natural Resources (IUCN) - 2004. Proceedingsof the World Heritage Boreal Zone Workshop. St.Petersburg, Russia. October 10-13, 2003. 40 p.

Jackson, James E. – 1998. Managing the Bloodvein Riveras a Canadian Heritage River – Bloodvein River(Ontario Portion) Resource Management Strategy.Prepared for Ontario Parks/Parks Canada,Canadian Heritage River System. Ministry ofNatural Resources, Thunder Bay, Ontario. 16 p.

James, Adam R.C. and A. Kari Stuart-Smith – 2000.Distribution of Caribou and Wolves in Relation toLinear Corridors. Journal of Wildlife Management.64 (1): 154-159.

Kor, P.S.G. – 1986. A Brief Geology and Geomorphology ofWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. Ministry of NaturalResources, Parks and Recreational Areas Branch;Open File Earth Sciences Report 8601. 84 p.

Lichtblau, Andreas – 2005. Personal Communication.Regional Resident Geologist. Ministry of NorthernDevelopment & Mines, Red Lake and KenoraDistricts. Red Lake, Ontario.

Lytwyn, V. – 1986. The Fur Trade History of theBloodvein River. Woodland Caribou Provincial Park,Technical Report #5. Red Lake District, Ministry ofNatural Resources.

Mahoney, S.P. et al. – 2001. Caribou Reactions toProvocation by Snowmachines in Newfoundland.Rangifer. 21 (1): 35-43.

McLeod, Mike – 2004. The Sydney/Rowdy Lake NarrowsCrossing. Kenora District, Northwestern Ontario.Manitoba Archaeological Newsletter. Series 2, Vol.16 (2): 1-7.

Meyer, D. and S. Hamilton – 1994. Neighbours to theNorth: Peoples of the Boreal Forest. In Indians of theGreat Plains AD 500-1500. Edited by Karl H.Schlesier, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman.96-127.

Ministry of Economic Development, Trade & Tourism– 1997. Remote Northern Tourism Travel Survey.Prepared by the Research Strategy Group, Inc.,Toronto, Ontario. 62 p.

Mosley, Erin – 2005. Personal Communication.Ecodistrict Life Science Assistant. Ministry ofNatural Resources. Thunder Bay, Ontario.

New, Dave – 2002. Personal Communication. AreaForester. Ministry of Natural Resources, Red LakeDistrict. Red Lake, Ontario.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –2004. Woodland Caribou Signature Site BackgroundInformation. Red Lake District, Ontario Parks. 54 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) – 2004.Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario. Queen’sPrinter for Ontario. Toronto, Ontario. 64 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –2003. Welcome to the Crown Land Use Atlas.http://crownlanduseatlas.mnr.gov.on.ca. [Accessed:July 28, 2005]

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –2002. Caribou Calving Report 2002; WoodlandCaribou Signature Site. Prepared by ShannonWalshe, Species at Risk Biologist, WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. Red Lake District,Ontario Parks.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –2001. Life Science Inventory: Woodland CaribouSignature Site. Prepared by Northern BioscienceEcological Consulting for Ontario Parks. 123 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –2001. Caribou Calving Report 2001; WoodlandCaribou Signature Site. Prepared by ShannonWalshe, Species at Risk Biologist, WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. Red Lake District,Ontario Parks.

40


41

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –2001. The Impacts on Caribou Calving Islands ByRecreational Users - Woodland Caribou Signature Site.Prepared by Shannon Walshe, Species at RiskBiologist, Woodland Caribou Provincial Park. RedLake District, Ontario Parks. 12 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –1999. Ontario’s Living Legacy - Land Use Strategy(OLL-LUS). 136 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –1992. Ontario Provincial Parks: Planning andManagement Strategies 1992 update. 90 p.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) –1989. Provincial Parks Policy 1.00. Ontario Parks,Parks Operations and Development. January 1,1989. 11 p.

Quewezence, Claire – 2005. Personal Communication.Assistant Park Superintendent. Woodland CaribouProvincial Park, Ontario Parks, Ministry of NaturalResources. Red Lake, Ontario.

Racey, Gerry – 2003. Personal Communication. SeniorScience Specialist. Thunder Bay Science andTechnology, Ministry of Natural Resources.Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Ranta, Bruce – 2001. Report on Woodland Caribou andtheir Use of Habitats in the Kenora Management Unitand Southern Portions of Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark. Kenora District, Ministry of NaturalResources. 18 p.

Reid, C.S. ‘Paddy’ (editor) – 1980. Studies in WestPatricia Archaeology No. 1: 1978-1979. West PatriciaLand Use Plan, West Patricia Heritage ResourceReport 1, Archaeological Research Report 15.Ontario Ministry of Culture and Recreation,Historical Planning and Research Branch. Toronto,Ontario.

Seip, D.R. – 1989. Caribou-Moose-Wolf Iinteractions inCentral British Columbia. In Seip, D. , Pettigrew, S.and Archibald, R. (eds.) Wolf-prey Dynamics andManagement. British Columbia Ministry of theEnvironment, Wildlife Working Report No. 40: 57-69.

Shoesmith, M.W and D.R. Storey – 1977. Movementsand Associated Behaviour of Woodland Caribou inCentral Manitoba. Presented at the XIIIInternational Congress of Game Biologists, Atlanta,Georgia, U.S.A. Mar 10-19, 1977. 24 p.

Simpson, K. and E. Terry – 2000. Impacts of BackcountryRecreation Activities on Mountain Caribou -Management Concerns, Interim ManagementGuidelines and Research Needs. British ColumbiaMinistry of Environment, Wildlife Working ReportNo. WR-99. 11 p.

Taylor-Hollings, Jill – 2004. An Overview of theCultural History and Archaeology of the WoodlandCaribou Signature Site, Northwestern Ontario.Prepared for Ontario Parks, Ministry of NaturalResources.

Wepruk, R. – 1986. A Fisheries Inventory of WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park, 1985. Woodland CaribouProvincial Park, Technical Report No. 16. Ministryof Natural Resources. Kenora, Ontario. 21 p.

Wolfe, Scott A., Brad Griffith and Carrie A. Wolfe –2000. Response of Reindeer and Caribou to HumanActivities. University of Alaska Fairbanks. PolarResearch, 19 (1): 63-73.

42

Lakes/systems with tourism facilities: Horsepower restrictions:Barclay/Mary's/Sabourin/Simeon Lakes 25Carroll Lake 15Craven Lake 10Domain Lake 10Douglas Lake 10Embryo Lake 10Gammon Lake 10Haggart Lake 10Hammerhead Lake 10Knox Lake 10Larus Lake 10Murdock Lake 10Olive Lake 10Optic Lake 10Peisk Lake 10Rowdy Lake 15Royd Lake 10Sydney/Kilburn Lake 20Sylvia Lake 10Telescope Lake 10Thicketwood Lake 10

Lakes/systems with private cottages, commercial portage to boat caches or commercial remote fly-in boat caches: Horsepower restrictions:Adventure Lake 10Aegean Lake 10Anchor Lake 10Beamish Lake 10Beaver Lake (Central Wilderness Zone) 10Beaver Lake (Southern Wilderness Zone) 10Bigshell Lake 10Bilko Lake 10Bird River 10Blueberry Lake 10Bulging Lake 10Crazy Lake 10Crystal Lake (Anchor Lake Park Addition) 10Donald Lake 10Dragon Lake 10Dunstan Lake 10Echo Lake 10

Appendix WCPP-1: Horsepower Restrictions forWoodland Caribou Provincial Park


43

Edgar Lake 10Embyro Lake 10Foley Lake 10Franks Lake 10Gammon Lake 10Glenn Lake 10Hammerhead Lake 10Hansen Lake 10Hatchet Lake 10Irregular Lake 10Lac Lamont 10Linge Lake 10Little Gammon Lake 10Marys Lake 25Middle Kilburn Lake 10Middle Lake South of Gammon 10Moose Lake 10Musclow Lake 10Old Woman Lake 10Optic River 10Page Lake 10Peterson Lake 10Pickerel Lake 10Robertson Lake 10Rocky Lake 10Rostoul Lake 10Royd Lake 10Rowdy Lake 15Sydney/Kilburn Lakes 20Sylvia Lake 10Talon Lake 10Unnamed Lake South Of Gammon Lake 10Unnamed Lake South of Hammerhead Lake 10Unnamed Lake West of Telescope Lake 10Unnamed West of Indian House Lake 10Upper Gammon Lake 10Upper Hatchet Lake 10Veronica Lake 10Walking Stick Lake 10Wanda Lake 10Wrist Lake 10Young Lake 10

44

Commercial Activities

Aggregate Extraction NoBait Fishing

Existing: Yes Existing use to be phased out by December 31, 2009.Owners of tourist operations located within wilderness parks are permitted by licence to bait fish in designated water bodies within the park, but only for use in the park.

New: NoCommercial Fishing

Existing: NoNew: No

Commercial Fur Harvesting Existing: Yes Existing use to be phased out by December 31, 2009, except for

trapping by Status Indians exercising Treaty rights.New: No

Commercial Hydro Development NoCommercial Timber Harvest NoFacility-based Commercial Tourism (e.g. outpost camps, resorts/lodges)

Existing: Yes Existing authorized tourism facilities/operations and related activities will remain but are subject to considerations.

New: Maybe New operations may be considered provided they are consistent with park policy and wilderness objectives.

Backcountry Outfitting Services YesEnergy Transmission and Communications Corridors NoMineral Exploration and Development NoWild Rice Harvesting

Existing: Yes Existing use to be phased out by December 31, 2009, except for harvesting by Status Indians exercising Treaty rights.

New: No

Land and Resource Management Activities

Crown Land Disposition Private: No No new land disposition for the private use of individuals is

permitted. Private recreation camps authorized by Land Use Permit for privateuse will be phased out by December 31, 2009.

Appendix WCPP-2: Permitted Uses Table Woodland Caribou Provincial Park (P2370e)


45

Commercial: Maybe Land disposition for commercial use may occur under the authority of a land use permit or lease, provided they are consistent with park policy and wilderness objectives.

Fire Suppression Maybe Until such time that a fire management plan for the park is approved, fire management within the park will be carried out in accordance with the Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario.

Fish Habitat Management Maybe In the absence of a fisheries management plan, management actions (e.g. habitat restoration) may be implemented where need is identified.

Fish StockingNative Species: Maybe In the absence of a fisheries management plan, stocking of native

fish species may occur where required to supplement threatened native populations. Stocking of any non-native species is prohibited.

Non-Native Species: NoInsect and Disease Suppression Maybe Non-native infestations which threaten park values will be actioned.

Native infestations which threaten park values may be actioned. Personal Wood Harvesting No Only dead material may be used for firewood. Inventory and Monitoring YesPrescribed Burning Maybe Until such time that a fire management plan for the park is

approved, fire management within the park will be carried out in accordance with the Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario.

Roads Existing: NoNew: No

Vegetation Management Maybe In the absence of a vegetation management plan, management actions may be implemented where need is identified. Non-native infestations which threaten park values will be actioned.

Water Control Structure Existing: NoNew: No

Wildlife Population Management Maybe Wildlife management will be addressed in conjunction with MNR wildlife management objectives.

Science, Education and Heritage Appreciation

Historical Appreciation (self guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning. Nature Appreciation (self guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning.Photography and Painting YesResearch Yes Subject to authorization.Wildlife Viewing(self-guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning.

Recreation Activities and Facilities

Aircraft Landing Aircraft landing is permitted with the authorization of a valid aircraft landing authority. Permit fees may apply.

Private: Yes Private aircraft landing will be phased out over four years following approval of the Park Management Plan, except for landings in designated air access zones and for access to private property by the patent land owner and immediate family. Private aircraft will be permitted to access commercial facilities as long as the individuals are registered guests at the facility. Resource harvesters will be permitted to use private aircraft for the purpose of resource harvesting.

Commercial: Yes Commercial aircraft landing is permitted in designated air access zones, at commercial tourism facilities, at private property, and at approved remote boat cache locations.Aircraft owned by commercial operators with tourism operations within the park are permitted to land to maintain their operations (facility, boat caches).

All Terrain Vehicle Use On Trails: Yes All terrain vehicle use is permitted in association with commercial

tourism operations, restricted to the tenured boundary of the operation.

Off Trails: NoCamping Yes In the absence of a visitor management program, backcountry

camping is permitted in wilderness zones on authorized campsites. Hunting NoMotor Boat Use

Private: No Private motorboat use is not permitted except for owners of patent land on designated lakes (non-conforming use).

Commercial: Yes Horsepower restrictions will apply. Use associated with commercial tourism operations is permitted within wilderness and access zones. Horsepower restrictions will apply.

Non-motorized Recreation Travel (e.g. canoeing, kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing) YesPrivate Recreation Camps

Existing: Yes Existing use to be phased out by December 31, 2009.New: No

46

Snowmobiling On Trails: No Snowmobile use will be phased out over ten years following

approval of the Park Management Plan. Consideration will be made at the end of the ten year phase out period for an extension of this non conforming use on Knox Lake. Grooming of approved snowmobile trails will not be permitted in any form.

Off Trails: NoSport Fishing Yes Consult the Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations summary for

specific local details.Trail Development Maybe If there is increased interest, hiking trails may be considered where

compatible with wilderness values and in association with the Natural Heritage Education plan.


47


Aggregate Extraction No

Bait Fishing

Existing: Yes

New: No

Commercial Fishing

Existing: No

New: No

Commercial Fur Harvesting

Existing: Yes

New: No

Commercial Hydro Development No

Commercial Timber Harvest No

Facility-based Commercial Tourism

(e.g. outpost camps, resorts/lodges)

Existing: Yes Existing authorized tourism facilities/operations and related

activities will remain but are subject to considerations.

New: Maybe New operations may be considered provided they are consistent

with park policy and wilderness objectives.

Backcountry Outfitting Services Yes

Energy Transmission and

Communications Corridors No

Mineral Exploration and

Development No

Wild Rice Harvesting

Existing: Yes

New: No


Crown Land Disposition

Private: No No new land disposition for the private use of individuals is

permitted, except for minor dispositions in support of existing uses

(e.g. reconstruction of a septic system). Renewal of existing tenure

for authorized uses is permitted. 48

Appendix WCPP-3: Permitted Uses Table –

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park Additions (P2370)


49

Commercial: Maybe Land disposition for commercial use may occur under the authority

of a land use permit or lease, provided they are consistent with park

policy and wilderness objectives. Existing tourism facilities may be

eligible for enhanced tenure.

Fire Suppression Maybe Until such time that a fire management plan for the park is

approved, fire management within the park will be carried out in

accordance with the Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario.

Fish Habitat Management Maybe In the absence of a fisheries management plan, management actions

(e.g. habitat restoration) may be implemented where need is

identified.

Fish Stocking

Native Species: Maybe In the absence of a fisheries management plan, stocking of native

fish species may occur where required to supplement threatened

native populations.

Stocking of any non-native species is prohibited.

Non-Native Species: No

Insect and Disease Suppression Maybe Non-native infestations which threaten park values will be actioned.

Native infestations which threaten park values may be actioned.

Inventory and Monitoring Yes

Personal Wood Harvesting No Only dead material may be used for firewood.

Prescribed Burning Maybe Until such time that a fire management plan for the park is

approved, fire management within the park will be carried out in

accordance with the Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario.

Roads

Existing: No

New: No

Vegetation Management Maybe In the absence of a vegetation management plan, management

actions may be implemented where need is identified. Non-native

infestations which threaten park values will be actioned.

Water Control Structure

Existing: No

New: No

Wildlife Population Management Maybe Wildlife management will be addressed in conjunction with MNR

wildlife management objectives.


Historical Appreciation

(self guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning.

Nature Appreciation

(self guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning.

Photography and Painting Yes

Research Yes Subject to authorization.

Wildlife Viewing

(self-guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning.


Aircraft Landing Aircraft landing is permitted with the authorization of a valid

aircraft landing authority. Permit fees may apply.

Private: Yes Private aircraft landing will be phased out over four years following

approval of the Park Management Plan, except for landings in

designated air access zones (year-round and seasonal) and for access

to private property by the patent land owner and immediate family.

Private aircraft will be permitted to access commercial facilities as

long as the individuals are registered guests at the facility. Resource

harvesters will be permitted to use private aircraft for the purpose of

resource harvesting.

Commercial: Yes Commercial aircraft landing is permitted in designated air access

zones, at commercial tourism facilities, at private property, and at

approved remote boat cache locations. Aircraft owned by

commercial operators with tourism operations within the park are

permitted to land to maintain their operations (facility, boat caches).

All Terrain Vehicle Use

On Trails: Yes All terrain vehicle use is permitted in association with commercial

tourism operations, restricted to the tenured boundary of the

operation.

Off Trails: No

50


51

Camping Yes In the absence of a visitor management program, backcountry

camping is permitted in wilderness zones on authorized campsites.

Hunting Yes Not in nature reserve zones.

Motor Boat Use

Private: Yes Private motorboat use is permitted on designated lakes by owners of

patent land (non-conforming use).

Commercial: Yes Horsepower restrictions will apply. Private motorboat use is

permitted in seasonal access zones by holders of approved private

boat cache agreements (seasonal timing and horsepower restrictions

will apply). Use associated with commercial tourism operations is

permitted within wilderness and access zones. Horsepower

restrictions will apply.

Non-motorized Recreation Travel

(e.g. canoeing, kayaking, hiking,

cross-country skiing, snowshoeing)

Yes

Private Recreation Camps

(e.g. hunt camps)

Existing: Yes Existing authorized camps are permitted to continue, and are

eligible for enhanced tenure but not purchase of land.

New: No

Snowmobiling

On Trails: Yes Snowmobile use on authorized trails can continue through seasonal

access zoning. Grooming of approved snowmobile trails will not be

permitted in any form.

Off Trails: No

Sport Fishing Yes Consult the Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations summary for

specific local details.

Trail Development Maybe If there is increased interest, hiking trails may be considered where

compatible with wilderness values and in association with the

Natural Heritage Education plan.


Aggregate Extraction NoBait Fishing

Existing: YesNew: No

Commercial Fishing Existing: NoNew: No

Commercial Fur Harvesting Existing: YesNew: No

Commercial Hydro Development NoCommercial Timber Harvest NoFacility-based Commercial Tourism (e.g. outpost camps, resorts/lodges)

Existing: Yes Existing authorized tourism facilities/operations and related activities will remain but are subject to considerations.

New: Maybe New operations may be considered provided they are consistent with park policy and wilderness objectives.

Backcountry Outfitting Services YesEnergy Transmission and Communications Corridors NoMineral Exploration and Development NoWild Rice Harvesting

Existing: YesNew: No


Crown Land Disposition Private: No No new land disposition for the private use of individuals is

permitted, except for minor dispositions in support of existing uses (for example reconstruction of a septic system). Renewal of existing tenure for authorized uses is permitted.

Commercial: Maybe Land disposition for commercial use may occur under the authority of a land use permit or lease, provided they are consistentwith park policy and wilderness objectives. Existing tourism facilities may be eligible for enhanced tenure.

52

Appendix WCPP-4: Permitted Uses Table –

Northern Peisk Lake - Woodland Caribou

Provincial Park Addition (P2370a)


53

Fire Suppression Maybe Until such time that a fire management plan for the park is approved, fire management within the park will be carried out in accordance with the Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario.

Fish Habitat Management Maybe In the absence of a fisheries management plan, management actions (for example habitat restoration) may be implemented where need is identified.

Fish StockingNative Species: Maybe In the absence of a fisheries management plan, stocking of native

fish species may occur where required to supplement threatened native populations. Stocking of any non-native species is prohibited.

Non-Native Species: NoInsect and Disease Suppression Maybe Non-native infestations which threaten park values will be

actioned. Native infestations which threaten park values may be actioned.

Inventory and Monitoring YesPersonal Wood Harvesting No Only dead material may be used for firewood.Prescribed Burning Maybe Until such time that a fire management plan for the park is

approved, fire management within the park will be carried out in accordance with the Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario.

Roads Existing: NoNew: No

Vegetation Management Maybe In the absence of a vegetation management plan, management actions may be implemented where need is identified. Non-native infestations which threaten park values will be actioned.

Water Control Structure Existing: NoNew: No

Wildlife Population Management Maybe Wildlife management will be addressed in conjunction with MNR wildlife management objectives.


Historical Appreciation (self guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning. Nature Appreciation (self guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning.Photography and Painting YesResearch Yes Subject to authorization.Wildlife Viewing(self-guided) Yes Support facilities may be identified through Natural Heritage

Education planning.

54


Aircraft Landing Aircraft landing is permitted with the authorization of a valid aircraft landing authority. Permit fees may apply.

Private: Yes Private aircraft landing will be phased out over four years followingapproval of the Park Management Plan, except for landings in designated air access zones (year-round and seasonal) and for accessto private property by the patent land owner and immediate family.Private aircraft will be permitted to access commercial facilities as long as the individuals are registered guests at the facility. Resource harvesters will be permitted to use private aircraft for thepurpose of resource harvesting.

Commercial: Yes Commercial aircraft landing is permitted in designated air access zones, at commercial tourism facilities, at private property, and at approved remote boat cache locations. Aircraft owned by commercial operators with tourism operations within the park are permitted to land to maintain their operations (facility, boat caches).

All Terrain Vehicle Use On Trails: Yes All terrain vehicle use is permitted in association with commercial

tourism operations, restricted to the tenured boundary of the operation.

Off Trails: NoCamping Yes In the absence of a visitor management program, backcountry

camping is permitted in wilderness zones on authorized campsites. Hunting Yes Not in nature reserve zones. Motor Boat Use

Private: Yes Private motorboat use is permitted on designated lakes by owners of patent land (non-conforming use). Horsepower restrictions will apply. Private motorboat use is permitted in seasonal access zones by holders of approved private boat cache agreements (seasonal timing and horsepower restrictions will apply).

Commercial: Yes Use associated with commercial tourism operations is permitted within wilderness and access zones. Horsepower restrictions will apply.

Non-motorized Recreation Travel (e.g. canoeing, kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing) YesPrivate Recreation Camps (e.g. hunt camps)

Existing: No There are no existing private recreation camps.New: No


55

Snowmobiling On Trails: Yes Snowmobile use on authorized trails can continue through seasonal

access zoning. Grooming of approved snowmobile trails will not bepermitted in any form.

Off Trails: NoSport Fishing Yes Consult the Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations summary

for specific local details.Trail Development Maybe If there is increased interest, hiking trails may be considered where

compatible with wilderness values and in association with the Natural Heritage Education plan.

56

Data from case studies, literature reviews andinterviews with tourism based businesses all confirmthat there are significant socio-economic benefits fromprotected areas that transfer to local communities andbusinesses.

Ontario’s system of protected areas (provincial parksand conservation reserves) includes more than 9.5million hectares of the province’s most outstandinglandscapes and waterways. This network of protectedareas is considered to be globally outstanding.Increasingly, entrepreneurs and community leaders inOntario are recognizing the economic opportunitiesthrough tourism associated with this resource base.

A study entitled, “Ontario Resource-Based TourismDiversification Opportunities Report” was completed byEconomic Growth Solutions Inc. in December of 2002for the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines(MNDM). The purpose of the study was to identifyalternative resource-based tourism productdevelopment opportunities beyond the traditionalfishing and hunting markets.

The report authors noted that: “Fishing andhunting have been highly successful flagshipproducts for Ontario’s resource-based tourismsector. However, there is considerable potentialto diversify into non-consumptive resource-based tourism market segments, many of whichhave higher participation levels than fishing andhunting.” (p. xiv)

The study included a survey of tourism operators andnoted a significant percentage of operators were veryinterested in more eco-tourism and adventure travel6

options including: wildlife/bird watching/photography,

canoe outfitting/kayaking, and backpacking/hiking/trekking/walking tours. The study went on to note that:

“Ontario is already nationally and internationallysignificant in terms of the fishing and huntingproduct offered by the resource-based tourismoperators. It has a relatively low profile,however, on the national and international stagewith respect to other outdoor adventureproducts, nature tourism, and eco-tourism – yet,the potential is enormous.” (p. 1-5)

Key opportunities for northern Ontario resource-basedtourism identified by the MNDM study include:further development of cultural and heritage resources,conferences and retreats utilizing shoulder seasons, spafacilities/retreats; creating outdoor adventure, learningvacations, and nature-based interpretive experiences,establishing links with educational institutions offeringrelevant courses and the broadening and deepening ofpartnerships.

While useful for parks managers, outfitters, touristoperators and local economic development officials thisstudy did not identify specific areas of the province thatoffer significant potential for resource-based tourismdiversification. Woodland Caribou Provincial Park aswell as other notable parks, signature sites, andprotected areas in the province (for example Algonquin,Quetico, Lady-Evelyn Smoothwater, Wabakimi) shouldbe considered as cornerstones of regionally resource-based tourism diversification opportunities.

Ontario’s protected areas, and in particular the OLLsignature sites, possess the following strengths: n World-class canoeing and camping opportunities in

many protected areas and across the CanadianShield.

n World-class freshwater kayaking opportunitiesconcentrated along key sections of the Great LakesHeritage Coast and Lake Nipigon,

Appendix WCPP-6: Social and Economic Impacts

6. Eco-tourism is defined as “purposeful travel that creates an understanding of cultural and natural history, while safeguarding economicbenefits that encourage preservation”. Ecotourism implies a scientific, aesthetic, or philosophical approach with a high level ofinterpretation. Adventure travel may be defined as leisure activity that takes place in an unusual, exotic, remote or wilderness destinationand tends to be associated with high levels of activity by the participants, and most of it outdoors. Adventure travelers expect toexperience varying degrees of risk, excitement and tranquility and to be personally tested or stretched in some way. (Economic GrowthSolutions, 2002).


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n World-class freshwater fishing and facility-basedtourism, which has been known and developed formany decades.

n Significant landscapes and natural resources whichcan and have the potential to attract a wide varietyof market segments (for example, eco-tourism,adventure travel and cultural heritage tourism).

n Potential for Aboriginal tourism in association withthe natural heritage of these areas.

Many of the large protected areas in the province arelocated considerable distances from urban markets.Economic opportunities associated with these protectedareas may be restricted to summer and perhaps limitedshoulder seasons, however, there is an opportunity tomarket the experience to a more concentrated buthigher-paying consumer. This may produce as manyeconomic benefits as catering to a large volume ofvisitors.

Provincial parks and protected areas provide a widerange of benefits to local and regional communities, theprovince and society in general. Some of the benefitsmay be measured in economic terms and others cannot.A number of the important benefits are listed below,though this list is not exhaustive. These benefitsdemonstrate how parks and protected areas supportsour quality of life:n Protection and contribution to ecological functions

(for example, water and soil production),n Protection of resource integrity (representing some

of the last green spaces left in the province),n Health benefits from outdoor activities (mental,

physical, and spiritual well-being),n Worker productivity (healthy and happy workers

tend to be more productive with less absenteeism),n Educational benefits (learning and connecting with

our natural and cultural heritage),n Scientific benefits (research to create better

understanding and awareness),n International responsibilities to protect natural

settings, features and wildlife,n Business location decisions (quality of life/business)

and community cohesion,n Economic benefits, both direct and indirect.

Provincial park trends across Ontario have shown anincrease of 33 per cent in backcountry use (interiorcamper nights) between 1988 and 2000. WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park has also experienced this trendas camper nights over the same time period increasedfrom 606 in 1988 to 6,293 in 2000. Average annualcamper nights between 1993 and 2000 were 3,923.Camper nights between 2001 and 2004 have averaged4,997 per year. In 2005, Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark’s visitation was 4,647 camper nights. In 2006,Woodland Caribou Provincial Park’s visitation was4,734 camper nights. A number of factors havecontributed to this general trend of increasing park use:greater awareness of the park; marketing efforts of thepark, the local publicity board, and the tourismoperators; other regional parks becoming more heavilyused; increased quality of outfitting services; word ofmouth; and the overall increasing demand for outdoorrecreation in Ontario. As a result Woodland CaribouProvincial Park, along with local and regionalcommunities, is well positioned to benefit from thesemarket trends.

Information from nine facility-based tourism operatorsin Woodland Caribou Provincial Park show a grossrevenue of $4.1 million generated from activitiesdirectly within the park. The total market value ofthese businesses (including capital assets) is estimated at$24 million. They employ over 80 people with anannual payroll of over two million dollars. Thesebusinesses attract over 3,100 visits annually for a totalof 17,980 rental nights (pers. comm. F. BastoneMNDM, 2004).

There are five backcountry outfitters providing varioustourism services that range from full service guidedtrips to equipment rental, trip advice, or shuttle service.Backcountry clientele using outfitting services hasincreased and can be illustrated by the increase inpaddlers using commercial aircraft as a means ofaccessing the park interior (13 per cent in 2003 to 25per cent in 2004).

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The planning for Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkbegan in April 2002 with the release of the Terms ofReference for the Woodland Caribou Signature Site.The Terms of Reference outlined the scope andstructure of the planning process, the project team(Steering Committee, Project Planning Team andAdvisory Committee), their responsibilities, and theplanning schedule. In December 2002, an Invitation toParticipate was released. This publication encouragedindividuals and groups to come forward withknowledge and opinions concerning the signature site.

In spring 2003, a newsletter was released that presentedgeneral information regarding the signature site andonce again invited the public to be part of the planningprocess. In January 2004, the Background Informationdocument was released for public review and comment.This stage of the planning process involves theinventory and analysis of resource data. Informationcentres (open houses) were held in Red Lake, Ear Fallsand Kenora as well as the Ontario First Nationcommunities of Pikangikum, Grassy Narrows, Lac Seuland Wabaseemoong. A summary of the publicconsultation was prepared and contributed to thedevelopment of a list of issues which were broughtforward for comment in the next stage of the planningprocess, the Issues and Options.

The Issues and Options document was released in May2005. This stage of the planning process presentedissues identified by the Project Planning Team,Advisory Committee and the public along with planalternatives which conform with policy direction forwilderness class parks, conservation reserves, andenhanced management areas. Information centres wereagain held in Red Lake, Ear Falls and Kenora as well asin the First Nation communities of Pikangikum, GrassyNarrows, Lac Seul, Wabaseemoong and Little GrandRapids, Manitoba.

A detailed questionnaire was provided in the Issues andOptions document. The questionnaire presented planalternatives which were developed to comply withpolicy yet satisfy divergent interests. Preferredalternatives were not identified nor was an exhaustivelist provided. The alternatives that were suggestedreflected public participation, consultation with theAdvisory Committee and First Nations WorkingGroups, and deliberation of the Project Planning Team.

Following the release of the Issues and Options, publiccomments were received over a 45-day consultationperiod. Comments were received in the form of letters,questionnaires, e-mails, faxes, as well as throughpersonal communications via meetings, telephone calls,and walk-ins. A summary of the public response wasprepared and available for public review. Opinions andinformation generated from public consultation wasreviewed by the Advisory Committee and the ProjectPlanning Team and used to develop strategies forresolving issues.

The Preliminary Strategy was released in September2006. This stage of the planning process incorporatedpublic comments, recommendations from the AdvisoryCommittee and First Nations Working Group, anddecisions by the Project Planning Team into a preferredmanagement approach for the signature site, includinga Preliminary Park Management Plan for WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park. Ten public informationcentres were held in Red Lake, Ear Falls and Kenora aswell as in the First Nation communities of Pikangikum,Grassy Narrows, Lac Seul, Wabaseemoong and LittleGrand Rapids, Manitoba.

Appendix WCPP-6: Summary of Public Consultation

Phot

o:H

ide

Ota

ke

Following the release of the Preliminary Strategy,comments were received over a 48–day commentperiod. Comments were received in the form of letters,questionnaires, e-mails, faxes, as well as throughpersonal communications via meetings, telephone calls,and walk-ins. Opinions and information generatedfrom public consultation was reviewed by the ProjectPlanning Team and was used to refine the proposeddirection for the approved Park Management Plan.

All public input is treated in accordance with theprovisions of the Freedom of Information andProtection of Privacy Act to ensure confidentiality ofpersonal information.

Ontario Parks will retain on file reference copies of allplanning documents. Planning documents are alsoavailable electronically at:http://www.ontarioparks.com/english/planning_wood.html.


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Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve (C2405)Resource Management Plan

E a g l e - S n o w s h o e C o n s e r v a t i o n R e s e r v e

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1.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................11.1 Background ....................................................................................................................................11.2 Resource Management Plan............................................................................................................1

2.0 Planning Area...........................................................................................................................................12.1 Site Location ..................................................................................................................................12.2 Conservation Reserve Description....................................................................................................22.3 Regional Setting .............................................................................................................................2

3.0 Management Planning .............................................................................................................................33.1 Goal and Objectives ........................................................................................................................33.2 Methods .........................................................................................................................................33.3 Survey of Conservation Reserve Values............................................................................................33.4 Project Planning Team ...................................................................................................................33.5 Advisory Committee .......................................................................................................................43.6 Public Consultation.........................................................................................................................4

4.0 Management Direction .............................................................................................................................64.1 First Nations..................................................................................................................................64.2 Lands and Waters Resource Use ......................................................................................................6

4.2.1 Aggregate Extraction .......................................................................................................64.2.2 Energy Transmissions and Communications Corridors.......................................................64.2.3 Commercial Hydro Development ......................................................................................64.2.4 Mineral Exploration and Development .............................................................................64.2.5 Peat Extraction ................................................................................................................74.2.6 Commercial Tourism ........................................................................................................74.2.7 Private Recreation Camps (Hunt Camps) .........................................................................74.2.8 Campgrounds...................................................................................................................74.2.9 Overnight Camping.........................................................................................................74.2.10 Campsite Designation.......................................................................................................84.2.11 Access Roads .....................................................................................................................84.2.12 Crown Land Dispositions..................................................................................................84.2.13 Type B Outpost Camps/Restricted Land Use Permits.........................................................94.2.14 Boat Caches......................................................................................................................94.2.15 Trail Development ...........................................................................................................94.2.16 Signage..........................................................................................................................104.2.17 Non-Motorized Recreational Travel................................................................................10


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Table of Contents

4.3 Fisheries ......................................................................................................................................104.3.1 Commercial Fishing .......................................................................................................104.3.2 Bait-fish/Leech Harvesting.............................................................................................114.3.3 Sport Fishing .................................................................................................................114.3.4 Fish Stocking .................................................................................................................114.3.5 Fish Habitat Management .............................................................................................11

4.4 Forest Resources............................................................................................................................124.4.1 Commercial Timber Harvest ..........................................................................................124.4.2 Insect/Disease Suppression ..............................................................................................124.4.3 Fuelwood and other small scale uses.................................................................................124.4.4 Vegetation Management.................................................................................................124.4.5 Fire Suppression.............................................................................................................134.4.6 Prescribed Burning.........................................................................................................13

4.5 Wildlife Resources.........................................................................................................................144.5.1 Commercial Fur Harvesting ..........................................................................................144.5.2 Commercial Bear Hunting .............................................................................................144.5.3 Hunting ........................................................................................................................154.5.4 Wildlife Population Management ...................................................................................154.5.5 Wildlife Viewing............................................................................................................15

4.6 Other Alternate Uses....................................................................................................................154.6.1 Collecting.......................................................................................................................154.6.2 Food Harvesting (Commercial).......................................................................................154.6.3 Food Gathering (Personal) .............................................................................................154.6.4 Historical Appreciation ...................................................................................................154.6.5 Inventory/Monitoring ....................................................................................................164.6.6 Wild Rice Harvesting.....................................................................................................16

5.0 Amendments to Resource Management Plan........................................................................................17

6.0 References .................................................................................................................................................17

List of AppendicesAppendix ESCR-1: Permitted Uses Summary Table ..................................................................................18Appendix ESCR-2: Test of Compatability...................................................................................................22Appendix ESCR-3: Bait-fish/Leech harvest blocks of ESCR (C2405) .........................................................23

List of FiguresFigure ESCR-1: Traplines..........................................................................................................................25Figure ESCR-2: Fire History .....................................................................................................................26Figure ESCR-3: Bear Management Areas..................................................................................................27

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1.1 Background

Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve was selected forprotection through Ontario’s Living Legacy Land UseStrategy and was regulated on May 21, 2003.Conservation Reserves are established and regulatedunder the Public Lands Act. These areas are intendedto complement provincial parks in protectingrepresentative natural areas and special landscapes.The ‘conservation reserve’ designation providesmanagement direction to permit many existing land useactivities to continue.

1.2 Resource Management Plan

This Resource Management Plan provides long-termmanagement direction for resource based activitiesoccurring within the conservation reserve. The planwas developed in accordance with Conservation ReservesPolicy and Procedures (1997) as amended by the Ontario’sLiving Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999) and considersthe associated recreation inventory, life scienceinventory and earth science inventory. The goal andobjectives of the conservation reserve are identifiedwithin the resource management plan and where policyis limited, these goals and objectives will guide resourcemanagement planning for the protected area.

The management direction contained in this documentwill be reflected through amendment of the CrownLand Use Policy Atlas which is MNR's repository ofcurrent area-specific land use policies for Crown landsin the central part of Ontario. It identifies the basicland use intent and permitted uses for each of thedesignated areas. The intended direction to be reflectedin the Crown Land Use Policy Atlas is included inAppendix ESCR – 1.

2.1 Site Location

The Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve is locatedwithin the Kenora District of the Northwest Region ofthe Ministry of Natural Resources. It is approximately95 kilometres northwest of the City of Kenora. Thisprotected area includes the area from Snowshoe Lakealong the Ontario/Manitoba border, and northeastalong a chain of lakes including Chase Lake andMidway Lake, and then ends at Eagle Lake where itmeets the Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkboundary. The conservation reserve is part of theWoodland Caribou Signature Site and will contributeto ensuring the ecological integrity of the area.

Wabaseemoong Independent Nations represents theAboriginal interests in the area of the conservationreserve.

The Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve waslocated within the North Kenora Pilot Project AgreementArea. This agreement was established through theAlternative Dispute Resolution provisions containedwithin the Forest Management Planning process in anattempt to resolve a forestry-tourism conflict resultingfrom a proposed forest access road and bridge crossingbetween Sydney and Rowdy Lakes to access wood inthe north part of the Kenora Forest. The provisionscontained within this agreement reflect the efforts of allpotential users of this area to reach agreement onunique regulations affecting access, sport fishing,Crown land camping, and hunting in this area. Theagreement is based upon the premise that a proposedforest access road west of Sydney Lake could affect theresource based tourism industry in this area. Sinceaccess west of Sydney Lake has not been establishedand is no longer proposed, and the term of theagreement has expired, the regulation changes madehave been revisited and reverted to be reflective ofsimilar areas adjacent to the conservation reserve.Those remaining as proposed will not be implemented.

1.0 Introduction 2.0 Planning Area


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2.2 Conservation Reserve Description

Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve is 35,621hectares in size. Patent properties are not included inthe protected area boundary.

The Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve containsrepresentative examples of Canadian Shield topographyincluding a glaciated landscape characterized byelongated lake systems, sudden changes in elevations,erratic drainage patterns, thin soils, and massivebedrock. The vegetation within the reserve isrepresentative of the Southern Boreal Forest Region.

The conservation reserve supports a wide variety ofwildlife including moose, white-tailed deer, black bear,various small game animals, and furbearers such asbeaver, otter, marten, and fisher. In addition, this areacontains important woodland caribou habitat andseveral calving/nursery areas have been confirmedalong the Eagle Lake to Chase Lake corridor. Thiscorridor also provides an important migration route forthese caribou.

This area provides some of the highest qualityrecreational fishing opportunities in the KenoraDistrict for walleye, northern pike, and lake trout.Angling serves to sustain seven outpost camps whichcontribute to the economy of the region. In addition tofishing, the conservation reserve provides opportunitiesfor hunting, camping, and snowmobiling.

There are a few established campsites on various lakeswithin the reserve that can be accessed by water. Thereis also a high potential for canoeing within Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve as it is locatedbetween Nopiming Provincial Park in Manitoba andWoodland Caribou Provincial Park in Ontario. Bothof these parks actively promote canoeing.

2.3 Regional Setting

Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve is located in thenorthwest region of the province of Ontario. Pleaserefer to Figure WCSS-1 for a map of the regionalsetting of this protected area.

Established protected areas within close proximity toEagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve include:n Musk Lake Conservation Reserve (C2382)n Campfire River Conservation Reserve (C2368)n Solitary Lake Conservation Reserve (C2362)n Woodland Caribou Provincial Park (P2370).

The Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve forms partof the Woodland Caribou Signature Site, one of ninefeatured areas identified for protection throughOntario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy (1999).These featured areas are places of outstanding naturalbeauty and significant cultural value which providehigh-quality wilderness recreation opportunities andtourism potential. The Woodland Caribou SignatureSite is located in northwestern Ontario, approximately30 kilometres west of the municipality of Red Lake, 90kilometres north of the city of Kenora and 60kilometres south of the community of Pikangikum. Itconsists of 537,585 hectares of protected land whichincludes Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, fourproposed wilderness park additions, Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve, Pipestone Bay-McIntoshEnhanced Management Area (E2359a), and a forestreserve. Please refer to Figure WCPP-1 for a map ofthe signature site.

This resource management plan for Eagle-SnowshoeConservation was developed as part of the planning forthe Woodland Caribou Signature Site Strategy.However, the MNR, Kenora District will maintainadministrative responsibility for the conservationreserve, including the periodic review of the approvedResource Management Plan.

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3.1 Goal and Objectives

The primary goal guiding the development of thisResource Management Plan is to provide permanentprotection for natural and cultural heritage values inthe area while permitting compatible land use activitiesto continue.

The objectives of the resource management plan are to:1. Identify the natural heritage values associated with

the Eagle-Snowshoe conservation reserve, includinglife science, earth science, and documentedhistorical, cultural, and archaeological values.

2. Identify the resource uses/users and recreationalactivities taking place within the conservationreserve boundaries.

3. Develop a set of guidelines to manage activities ofresource users so that the natural and culturalheritage features of the area are protected.

4. Ensure the protection of habitat and vegetation thatsupports the woodland caribou population that usethe area.

3.2 Methods

This Resource Management Plan was developed and ismaintained through the following steps:1. Preparation of Terms of Reference2. Background Information preparation3. Compilation and review of issues and options4. Preparation of Preliminary Resource Management

Plan5. Preparation and approval of the Final Resource

Management Plan6. Periodic review of the approved Resource

Management Plan.

Public consultation efforts were coordinated with thosefor the Woodland Caribou Signature Site.

3.3 Survey of Conservation Reserve Values

Natural and cultural heritage data for the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve were acquired throughsurveys and research. The compilation of thisinformation provides a basis for developing effectivemanagement direction and also directly contributes tothe objectives of this Resource Management Plan. Thefollowing section identifies the inventory work andsurveys that have been completed to date:

1. Detailed Life Science inventory and checksheetcompiled March 2001 by Northern Bioscience.

2. Detailed Earth Science inventory and checksheetcompiled March 2001 by Blackburn GeologicalServices.

3. Recreation Resource Inventory compiled January2001 by MNR.

4. Aerial field inspection to verify values and locationscompleted September 2003 by MNR.

3.4 Project Planning Team

The Signature Site Planning Team comprise Ontariogovernment staff representing relevant ministries andprogram areas. The Planning Team contributedknowledge and provided clarification to policy,programs, and procedures throughout the planningprocess. The Ministry of Natural Resources (NorthwestRegion, Red Lake District, and Kenora District) andthe Ministry of Northern Development and Mines


3

3.0 Management Planning

(Northern Development and Mineral sectors), wererepresented on the team.

The planning team must consider all currentinformation, legislation, provincial policy and publicopinion in the development of the Signature SiteManagement Plan while focussing on the establishedgoals and objectives of the signature site.

Planning for the Eagle-Snowshoe ConservationReserve Resource Management Plan (RMP) wasconcurrent with planning for the Woodland CaribouSignature Site Management Plan. The RMP isintended to direct resource activity within theConservation Reserve while simultaneouslycontributing to the objectives of the Woodland CaribouSignature Site.

3.5 Advisory Committee

An advisory committee was established in January 2003.It is made up of representatives with a wide range ofinterests and takes local, regional, and provincialperspectives into account. The advisory committee hasestablished an approved operating procedure protocol,reviewed background information, agreed upon a visionstatement for the signature site, identified issues andsuggested options for the management of the site.

3.6 Public Consultation

Public consultation for the Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve Resource Management Plan wasundertaken in conjunction with consultation on theWoodland Caribou Signature Site Management Plan.The following list identifies the individuals and groupsthat have an interest in the signature site. This listincludes those that are directly affected or influencedby decisions relating to this protected area (alphabeticalorder).

n Bear management area holdersn Commercial tourism operatorsn First Nations communitiesn Forest management companiesn Mining companiesn Property owners

n Recreationalists (i.e. anglers, hunters, canoeists, andcampers)

n Resource harvesters (trapline holders, bait-fish andleech licence holders)

Public consultation occurred throughout the planningprocess and the following identifies and describes theformal opportunities for the public to provide input.

Public Consultation ProcessStage 1 – Invitation to Participate

December 2002The Terms of Reference for the signature site weremade available for public review and comment at thisstage of consultation. Potential issues and publicconcerns that could be addressed through resourcemanagement planning were also identified through theInvitation to Participate. A summary of this publicconsultation stage is available upon request.

Stage 2 – Public review of Background Information February 2004

Public comments received through the first stage ofpublic consultation were considered and incorporated,where appropriate, into the Background Informationdocument. This document was available for publicreview. Open houses were held in the communities ofEar Falls, Red Lake, Pikangikum, Kenora, GrassyNarrows, Kejick Bay, and Wabaseemoong betweenFebruary and March 2004. Responses were used by theProject Planning Team to assist in identifying issuesand alternatives.

Stage 3 – Public review of Issues and Options May – June 2005

Public comments collected through the first two phasesof public consultation were reviewed, summarized andcompiled into the Issues and Options document andquestionnaire. A series of information sessions wereheld in May 2005 to present this package. Publiccomment was received until June 24, 2005.

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Stage 4 – Public Review of Preliminary Signature SiteManagement Plan, including Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve draft Resource Management Plan

Public response to the Issues and Options package wasconsidered in the development of the draft ResourceManagement Plan (RMP). The draft RMP waspresented to the public as part of the PreliminarySignature Site Management Plan. A series of 10information sessions were held in September andOctober 2006. Public comment was received untilOctober 23, 20065 and comments were solicitedthrough information sessions and the EnvironmentalBill of Rights Registry.

Stage 5 – Public Inspection of Approved Signature SiteManagement Plan, including Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve Resource Management Plan

The approved management plan document, includingthe Resource Management Plan, is now available to thepublic.


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The following management direction for theconservation reserve is in accordance with Ontario’sLiving Legacy Land Use Strategy and ConservationReserves Policy and Procedures. All new activitieswithin the conservation reserve are subject to the ClassEnvironmental Assessment for Provincial Parks andConservation Reserves.

4.1 First Nations

Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve is within theTreaty 3 area. There are several First Nationscommunities and associated Federal Reserve Lands thatare close to the conservation area. These First Nationscommunities have been included in public consultationefforts relating to the signature site. This ResourceManagement Plan recognizes that the health andwelfare of these established communities is intrinsicallylinked to the natural resources of the area. Nothing inthis Resource Management Plan shall be construed soas to abrogate or derogate from the protection providedfor the existing aboriginal or treaty rights of theaboriginal people of Canada as recognized and affirmedin section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.

4.2 Lands and Waters Resource Use

4.2.1 Aggregate ExtractionNo aggregate extraction sites have been developedwithin the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve.

Management Direction:Aggregate extraction will not be permitted within theconservation.

4.2.2 Energy Transmissions and Communications Corridors

No transmission lines or gas pipeline corridors existwithin the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve.

Management Direction: Utility corridors will not be permitted within theconservation reserve unless there are no demonstratedalternatives. In this event, the maintenance of suchcorridors, such as vegetation removal, will bepermitted. Ancillary activities such as pumping stationsand service yards will not be permitted within the site.

4.2.3 Commercial Hydro DevelopmentPrevious hydro development has not occurred withinthe conservation reserve. This may be attributed to thegeographic location of the protected area and the lackof road access to the site.

Management Direction:Commercial hydroelectric development or ancillaryactivities (i.e. flood-ways) will not be permitted withinthe Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve.

4.2.4 Mineral Exploration and Development

No mineral exploration or extraction activities arepermitted to occur within any conservation reserve,however, there are 20 established patented miningclaims surrounded by the conservation reserveboundary.

Management Direction:The mining and surface rights of the lands and landsunder water within the conservation reserve boundaryare withdrawn from prospecting, staking out, sale orlease by the MNDM. Therefore, mineral explorationand development activities are not permitted within theconservation reserve. Likewise, ancillary activitiesassociated with mineral exploration are not supportedby this management plan. Necessary access to existingmining tenure for future mineral exploration and/ormining development will be permitted in theconservation reserve.

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4.0 Management Direction

However, the 20 existing patents surrounded by theconservation reserve boundary are excluded from theprotected area. In the event that these patented parcelsare released to the Crown in the future, the Ministry ofNatural Resources would consider options toincorporate this area(s) into the conservation reserve,provided that all the necessary steps are followed underthe Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parksand Conservation Reserves and the Crown Land UseAtlas policy amendment procedures.

4.2.5 Peat ExtractionPeat extraction activities will not be permitted withinthe conservation reserve.

4.2.6 Commercial TourismCommercial tourism includes resorts and lodges,outpost camps, guided non-resident bear hunting, andoutfitting services. Outfitting services include theprovision of recreational equipment such as canoes andboats to resource users.

Currently, there are eight commercial touristestablishments located within the conservation reserveboundary. Six of the eight facilities operate with landuse permit tenure, one with Crown lease tenure, andone operates on patent land.

Management Direction:Existing tourism operations are permitted to continueunless there are significant demonstrated conflicts.Requests for expansion or relocation of existingfacilities may be considered subject to the ‘test ofcompatibility’ (see APPENDIX ESCR-2) and providedthat there are demonstrated net benefits to thesignature site. Tourism operators may apply forupgraded tenure but not for patents.

The commercial tourism establishment occurring onpatent land is also permitted to continue. It should benoted that management direction within this plan doesnot apply to activity on private property. Commercialtourism facilities will continue to be regulated underthe Tourism Act.

No new permanent roofed accommodations will bepermitted within the conservation reserve.

New ecotourism opportunities may be considered on acase-by-case basis and will be subject to the ‘test ofcompatibility’. Any associated dispositions will requirethe proponent to follow the appropriate processoutlined in the Class Environmental Assessment forProvincial Parks and Conservation Reserves and todemonstrate that there would be no negative impact onthe values for which the conservation reserve wasdesignated.

4.2.7 Private Recreation Camps (Hunt Camps)

There are no existing recreational hunt camps locatedwithin the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserveboundary.

Management Direction:No new hunt camps will be permitted within theconservation reserve as per Conservation ReservesPolicy. This management direction only applies totenured hunt camps and is not applicable to campingon Crown land for the purpose of hunting.

4.2.8 CampgroundsThere are no existing commercial campgrounds locatedwithin the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve.

Management Direction:This management plan does not support thedevelopment of commercial campgrounds within theEagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve. Newcommercial campgrounds may not be consistent withthe goal of maintaining the remote character of thearea. Furthermore, limited access to the area indicatesthat commercial campgrounds could be betteraccommodated outside the conservation reserve.

4.2.9 Overnight CampingNo campsites are signed or designated and campers arenot directed to specific camping locations within theConservation Reserve. There are a substantial number ofcamping opportunities which are generally clearlymarked by previous use. The sites are well used and ingood condition. Occasionally some debris is left on site.


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Management Direction:Overnight camping is permitted within theconservation reserve. No further management action isrequired at this time other than the implementation ofthe appropriate regulations as they pertain to suchactivities.

Should changes to the regulations governing overnightcamping be made, they should be considerate of theintent of this Resource Management Plan; however,they will follow the appropriate processes which areoutside the amendment procedures of this document

4.2.10 Campsite DesignationThe designation of campsites would result in additionaladministrative and enforcement requirements for theMNR and some level of site maintenance would benecessary. The recreation inventory identifies thatthere are a substantial number of campingopportunities which are generally clearly marked byprevious use. The sites are well used and in goodcondition. Occasionally some debris is left on site.

Management Direction:This management plan will continue to supportrecreational camping within the Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve. Due to administrative andenforcement constraints, the designation andmaintenance of campsites within the conservation reserveis not feasible, nor required at this time. However, thismanagement plan supports efforts to increase awarenessof low-impact camping practices through education.These efforts could include the distribution of pamphletsthat promote packing out all garbage and refraining fromusing cans and bottles on trips.

4.2.11 Access RoadsEagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve is located in aremote location 95 kilometres northwest from the Cityof Kenora. There are no roads which provide vehicleaccess directly into the site. The nearest road to theconservation reserve is Werner Lake Road which islocated approximately 15 kilometres south fromSnowshoe Lake.

Management Direction:New resource access roads will not be permitted withinthe conservation reserve, with the exception ofnecessary access to existing mining tenure for futuremineral exploration and/or mining development.

4.2.12 Crown Land DispositionsThere are a number of patented properties which existwithin the conservation reserve. These properties arethe result of patented mining claims which have beensold to independent owners and operators. As a result,there are three private cottages and one commercialtourist operation which exist within the conservationreserve. Other land dispositions include one Crownland lease and six land use permits, all of which areregistered to commercial tourism operations occurringwithin the Eagle-Snowshoe area.

Management Direction:Renewals of existing land use permits and leases will bepermitted. Requests for transfers may be considered.

The sale of Crown land is not permitted with theexception of some types of minor dispositions tosupport existing permitted uses e.g. the sale of smallparcels of land to provide adequate area for theinstallation of a septic system. The proponent will berequired to demonstrate that the activity does notnegatively impact the values which the conservationreserve is intended to protect.

New leases or land use permits to support approvedactivities may be considered subject to the ‘test ofcompatibility’. Any such dispositions will require theproponent to follow the appropriate process outlined inthe Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parksand Conservation Reserves and to demonstrate that therewould be no negative impact on the values for whichthe conservation reserve was designated. New leases orland use permits will not be considered for facilitieswhich provide for overnight accommodation unlessotherwise stated in the management direction.

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4.2.13 Type B Outpost Camps/Restricted Land Use Permits

Type B Outpost Camp (formerly referred to asrestricted or mini-land use permit) means anencampment of structures temporarily established onCrown land to provide accommodations to clients of anoperator, for a non-recurring, short-term, singlepurpose site. Type B outpost camps provide thetourism operator with greater flexibility and increasedopportunity. If Type B outpost camps are permittedwithin the conservation reserve, these land dispositionopportunities could be used to promote existingtourism facilities within the conservation reserve,encourage new tourism opportunities, or accommodateoperators that are displaced from Woodland CaribouProvincial Park.

Management Direction:New dispositions for Type B Outpost Camps may beconsidered within the conservation reserve. Any suchdispositions will require the proponent to follow theappropriate process outlined in the Class EnvironmentalAssessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reservesand to demonstrate that there would be no negativeimpact on the values for which the conservation reservewas designated. Consideration will be given tooperators who can demonstrate that a net benefit to theWoodland Caribou Signature Site will be achievedthrough the disposition.

4.2.14 Boat CachesA boat cache program was implemented in theNorthwest Region in 1981 which required all boatscached on Crown land to display a decal with anassigned identification number. Boat caches areclassified into three categories, commercial, resourceharvester, and recreational/private.

Commercial boat caches are used to support commercialtourism activities such as angling and hunting. Theauthority holder must be either a tourist operatorlicensed under the Tourism Act, or a houseboatoperator with four or more rental units, or a licensedair carrier.

Resource harvester boat caches are those that are utilized insupport of commercial bait fishing and/or fur harvestingactivities. The authority holder must hold a valid licenceor have approval for the commercial harvest or utilizationof natural resources, and must require the use of a boat.

Recreational boat caches are used to support personalrecreational activities. Recreational boat cache authoritycan only be held by residents of Ontario or non-residentswho require the use of a boat to access private property.

Management DirectionExisting boat cache authority is permitted to continueunless resource sustainability is at risk or there aresignificant demonstrated conflicts. New resourceharvester boat caches may be considered subject to the‘test of compatibility’. New commercial tourism andprivate boat cache authority may be considered if itprovides demonstrated net benefits to the WoodlandCaribou Signature Site.

Any such dispositions will require the proponent tofollow the appropriate process outlined in the ClassEnvironmental Assessment for Provincial Parks andConservation Reserves and to demonstrate that there wouldbe no negative impact on the values for which theconservation reserve was designated.

4.2.15 Trail DevelopmentLand-based trails and portages exist within theconservation reserve including portions of snowmobileand canoe routes. Other trails exist to allow fur harvestersaccess to their trapline areas. During the winter, thefrozen waterbodies also provide a means of snowmobileaccess to the conservation reserve. Please refer to FigureESCR-1 for a map of documented trails within theconservation reserve as derived from the NaturalResource Values Information System (NRVIS). Thesetrails represent routes that may be shared by canoeistsand snowmobiles. There may be existing trails notcaptured through survey efforts.

Horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking trails havenot been identified within the conservation reserve andare unlikely to exist due to the limited access to the area.

Management Direction:Existing trails for motorized travel are permitted tocontinue provided that they do not negatively impactvalues for which the conservation reserve wasdesignated. These trails will be considered authorizedtrails. New trail development, including tenure tosupport new trails, will not be permitted within theconservation reserve. The establishment of new trailswould not be consistent with management efforts tomaintain the wilderness character of the area.Snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle activity is permittedon existing trails; off trail use is permitted only for thedirect retrieval of game. Should it be demonstrated thatactivities associated with the use of these existing trailscompromise the values for which the conservationreserve was established (i.e. caribou habitat/migrationroutes), steps may be initiated to no longer authorize orpermit the use of these trails.

4.2.16 Signage

Management Direction:Educational signage may be permitted within theconservation reserve. Consideration may be given toestablishing signage provided that it is used to conveymessages that are consistent with the protectionobjectives of the conservation reserve. Signage must bedisplayed so as not to negatively impact the identifiedvalues of the protected area. This management plandoes not support the posting of signs for the purpose ofadvertising.

4.2.17 Non-Motorized Recreational TravelEagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve abuts the southend of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, a protectedarea that is well known for its wilderness canoe routes.Portage trails throughout the conservation reserveprovide access to remote lakes for canoeists andrecreationalists. Please refer to Figure ESCR-1 for amap that includes the known canoe/kayak routes withinthe conservation reserve.

Management Direction:Non-mechanized recreational travel will continue to bepermitted within the conservation reserve provided thatthere are no significant demonstrated conflictsincluding negative impact to identified values. Newtrail development to support these activities (e.g., newportages) will be considered subject to the ‘test ofcompatibility.’

4.3 Fisheries

4.3.1 Commercial FishingCommercial fish are defined as “any fish that areharvested by the commercial fishing industry under theauthority of a commercial fishing licence” (OMNR,1987).

Commercial fishing has occurred on two of the largestlakes within the conservation reserve, Snowshoe Lakeand Eagle Lake. Licences were granted during the late1950s. The commercial licences were for the harvestingof walleye and northern pike. Early into the 1970s,testing for mercury contamination occurred in responseto Dryden Paper Mill’s contamination of the EnglishRiver system. The testing indicated that both EagleLake and Snowshoe Lake had high natural mercuryconcentrations, but these levels were not due tocontamination. These lakes, however, were closed tothe commercial fishery from 1972 to 1978. The fisherywas re-opened again in 1979 for the harvesting ofwhitefish from both Snowshoe and Eagle Lakes.Activity continued until the licences were acquired bythe MNR in 1989 based upon direction in the KenoraDistrict Fisheries Management Plan.

Management Direction:No new commercial fishing operations will beconsidered for the Eagle-Snowshoe area due to theretirement of the licences in 1989, the high cost ofoperating commercial fisheries in this remote area, andpotential conflicts with the sport fishery.

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4.3.2 Bait-fish/Leech HarvestingPortions of five bait fish harvest areas and five leechharvest areas are within the Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve boundary. No opportunities fornew harvest operations exist because all areas have beenallocated in the past. Please refer to APPENDIXESCR-3 for a list of the harvest blocks within theconservation reserve.

Management Direction:Existing baitfish and leech harvest areas are permittedto continue unless there are significant demonstratedconflicts. Requests for transfers will be consideredsubject to the ‘test of compatibility’ and current MNRpolicy.

4.3.3 Sport FishingEagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve contains highquality recreational fishing opportunities for walleye,northern pike, bass and lake trout. The majority ofanglers who fish these lakes are flown into the area byfloatplane and stay at one of the outpost camps,cottages or private lodges located within theconservation reserve boundary.

Management Direction:Sport fishing is a permitted activity within theconservation reserve. No further management action isrequired at this time other than the implementation ofthe current annual Recreational Fishing RegulationsSummary. This summary is in compliance with thefederal Fisheries Act and Regulations and the provincialFish and Wildlife Conservation Act.

Should changes to the sport fishing regulations bemade, they should be considerate of the intent of thisresource management plan; however, they will followthe appropriate processes which are outside theamendment procedures of this document.Since access west of Sydney Lake has not beenestablished and is no longer proposed (rationale for theNorth Kenora Pilot Project Agreement), and the term ofthe agreement has expired, the conservation sport fishlimits only regulation for residents was reviewed andrescinded as part of the process to review Ontario’ssport fishing regulations for this Fisheries ManagementZone. The conservation sport fish limits remain inplace for non-residents of Canada.

4.3.4 Fish StockingNo authorized fish stocking attempts have been madewithin the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve.

Management Direction:A requirement to stock fish in lakes is not anticipated atthis time. However, this management plan supports thisactivity as a means to sustain the values which theconservation reserve was designated to protect. Theconservation reserve will follow the most appropriateand current resource management direction applicableto the watershed. Fisheries programs, such as stocking,would be subject to the Class Environmental Assessmentfor Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves. Thiswould require an evaluation of the impact of theproposal and public consultation prior to approval.

4.3.5 Fish Habitat ManagementHabitat management would entail efforts to sustainand/or promote aquatic and upland habitat to supportthe fisheries. This activity could include work toimprove spawning beds and slope stabilization toprevent excess sediment from entering the aquatichabitat. No previous fish habitat management activitieshave occurred within the conservation reserve to datewhich may be a result of the limited access available tothe site.

Management Direction:Fish habitat management and improvement projectswill be supported by this management plan. Theseactivities would be consistent with the managementobjective of protecting natural heritage values withinthe conservation reserve. Specific programs would besubject to the Class Environmental Assessment forProvincial Parks and Conservation Reserves

4.4 Forest Resources

As a result of a forest fire that swept through thenorthern section of the conservation reserve, a forestcover of jack pine, mixed jack pine and black spruce,and other mixed hardwoods now dominate the reserve.The southern two - thirds of the conservation reservesupports stands of mature jack pine, black spruce andscattered balsam fir on rock outcrops. The hardwoodstands consist primarily of trembling aspen and whitebirch with a combination of balsam fir and whitespruce. There is also a presence of tamarack in thepoorly drained lowlands and along portions of the lakeshorelines.

Bur oak savannahs are a significant feature of theWingiskus Lake and Eagle Lake areas. Theseoccurrences are significant because they are at thenorthern extent of their range and because of theirrelationship to prairie vegetation communities.

4.4.1 Commercial Timber HarvestPrior to regulation, Eagle-Snowshoe ConservationReserve was located within the Kenora Forest. TheSustainable Forest Licence (SFL) for the Kenora Forestis issued to Weyerhaeuser Company Ltd.

Management Direction:Commercial timber harvest is not permitted within theconservation reserve. Furthermore, this managementplan does not support any ancillary activities (i.e., workcamps) associated with forest harvesting. Thismanagement direction applies to the commercialharvest of all tree species and other forest resourcesincluding Canada Yew.

4.4.2 Insect/Disease SuppressionAs part of the boreal forest, portions of theconservation reserve have been subject to previousinsect outbreaks including the Forest Tent Caterpillar(Malacosoma disstria), Spruce Budworm (Choristoneurafumiferana), and Jack Pine Budworm (Choristoneurapinus pinus). These natural processes will likely occuragain in the future.

Management Direction:The decision for the MNR to manage insect anddisease outbreaks is usually related to saving maturetimber until such time as harvesting can occur. Ascommercial timber harvesting is not a permitted usewithin the conservation reserve, these natural processeswill be permitted to occur without intervention.However, if it is determined through appropriateprocesses that the forest/vegetation is threatened by aninvasion of a non-native species, this management plansupports the application of control agents to the landswithin the conservation reserve subject to the ClassEnvironmental Assessment for Provincial Parks andConservation Reserves. In this plan, non-native speciesincludes those not native to Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve and the ecoregion that itrepresents.

4.4.3 Fuelwood and other small scale usesFuelwood is often required by leaseholders, cottagersand other property owners who do not have road accessto their property. Fuelwood and other small scale usesare not intended for large-scale cutting for buildingstructures such as log homes.

Management Direction:The cutting of trees for non-commercial purposesmay be authorized by permit to leaseholders, cottagersand other property owners who do not have road accessto their property and who have no alternative means ofobtaining fuelwood or other small scale uses outside ofthe conservation reserve. Any application will be subjectto a ‘test of compatibility’ as well as a review andsubsequent determination of the impact that suchcutting would have on natural and cultural heritagevalues. This Resource Management Plan supports thisactivity provided that permits are limited to personaluse only.

4.4.4 Vegetation ManagementVegetation of the conservation reserve is typical of thesouthern boreal forest region which is represented bythin soils. The site is located in a high occurrence areafor forest fires and represents a dynamic ecology whichcan change dramatically over a short time period.Species that are found within the conservation reserveinclude birch, poplar, spruce, balsam fir and jack pine.

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Large areas of exposed bedrock provide a suitableenvironment for the Woodland Caribou that inhabitthe area. The lichens that grow on the bedrock providethem with good winter forage.

The organic make-up of the conservation reserve isprimarily represented by swamps and marshes whichprovide excellent habitat for the waterfowl of the area.

Management Direction:Vegetation management within the conservationreserve will follow the most appropriate directionapplicable to the area immediately outside theprotected area boundary. However, the adoptedstrategy must be consistent with the other managementdirections of this Resource Management Plan. Non-native species will not be deliberately introduced to theconservation reserve. Where established, introducedspecies threaten the life science values in theconservation reserve, a management plan and programmay be developed for their control. This managementdirection is consistent with Conservation ReservesPolicy.

4.4.5 Fire SuppressionPlease refer to Figure ESCR-2 for a fire history map ofthe conservation reserve and surrounding area.

Management Direction:This Resource Management Plan recognizes fire as animportant ecosystem process, fundamental to restoringand maintaining the ecological integrity of the naturalenvironment represented within this conservationreserve. The role of fire and preliminary firemanagement objectives for the conservation reserve willbe developed and documented through a Statement ofFire Intent. Following this process, a fire managementplan will be developed which will specifically addressobjectives and prescribed actions with respect to fireresponse and fire use over a period of time. The FireManagement Plan will be developed in accordance withthe Fire Management Planning Guidelines forProvincial Parks and Conservation Reserves and willinvolve public consultation as required.

Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve is locatedwithin the Boreal Fire Management Zone. An InterimFire Response Plan has been developed for theconservation reserve to direct fire management until afire management plan is completed. This direction isconsistent with current Fire Management Policy forProvincial Parks and Conservation Reserves.

All fires within the conservation reserve will receive anappropriate response commensurate with the potentialimpact of each fire on public health and safety, propertyand values, the predicted behaviour of each fire, and theestimated cost of fire response. More detail on specificstrategies can be found in the Woodland CaribouSignature Site Interim Fire Response Plan.

Whenever feasible, the OMNR fire program willendeavour to use “light on the land” techniques, whichdo not unduly disturb the landscape, in thisconservation reserve.

Examples of light on the land techniques may includelimiting the use of heavy equipment and limiting thenumber of trees felled during response efforts.

These management directions are consistent withConservation Reserves Policy.

4.4.6 Prescribed BurningMany boreal vegetation species are fire dependent thatrequire fire as part of their natural life cycle. Fire isessential in the regeneration of these species, as well asin maintaining old growth red and white pine stands.

Management Direction:Opportunities for prescribed burning to achieveecological or resource management objectives may beconsidered. These management objectives will bedeveloped with public consultation prior to anyprescribed burning and reflected in the document thatprovides management direction for this conservationreserve. Plans for any prescribed burning will bedeveloped in accordance with the MNR PrescribedBurn Planning Manual and the Class EnvironmentalAssessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves.

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4.5 Wildlife Resources

The Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve is locatedwithin Wildlife Management Unit #2. The areasurrounding Wingiskus, Eden, Bee, Anderson, andRickaby Lakes has been identified as having a high moosedensity. The remaining area to the east and south of theselakes, which includes Eagle, Chase, and Snowshoe Lakes,has a medium moose density. The area located fromRaehill Lake north to the boundary of Woodland CaribouProvincial Park has a low moose density.

Furbearers included within the conservation reserveinclude beaver, muskrat, mink, fisher, marten, weasel, lynx,fox, wolf, squirrel, and black bear. There are portions offour registered traplines within the reserve boundary.

After World War II, a large herd of Woodland Caribouwas spotted near Irregular Lake. This sightingprompted the protection of the caribou. Over the pastdecades, the Ministry of Natural Resources has adoptedan approach of sustainable development in resourcemanagement intended to maintain caribou populationsand habitat across the landscape.

During the summer months, some caribou migratesouth from their winter range, located in WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park, into the conservation reserve.Caribou sightings have been concentrated around EagleLake to Chase Lake where caribou calving areas havebeen confirmed. Kenora District implemented a collartelemetry program in 1997, as part of a commitmentfrom the North Kenora Pilot Project Agreement to provideinformation on caribou behaviour and migration routes(Ranta, 2001).

4.5.1 Commercial Fur HarvestingThe Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve includesportions of four registered trapline areas; two aremanaged by Kenora District and two are managed byRed Lake District. One trapline cabin exists within theconservation reserve. Please refer to Figure ESCR-1 fora map of the trapline areas.

Management Direction:Existing commercial fur harvesting activity byAboriginal people can continue indefinitely. Transfer oftraplines between status Indians is permitted andtransfer of traplines to non-native trappers will beconsidered subject to the “test of compatibility”. Nonew opportunities for trapline areas exist within theconservation reserve as all areas are currently allocated.

Existing trap cabins are permitted within the protectedarea. Relocation of the existing cabins and new cabinswill be encouraged outside of the conservation reserve,but will be considered within the protected area ifrequired. The location will be dependent on theprotection of natural heritage values and otheruses/activities. Considerations will be made for safetyand practicality.

Trapping activities are regulated under the Fish andWildlife Conservation Act and the Endangered Species Act,and are summarized in the annual Summary of the FurManagement Regulations. Length of trapping seasonvaries, depending on the species being harvested.

4.5.2 Commercial Bear HuntingCommercial bear hunting includes tourist operatorsproviding bear hunting services to non-residenthunters. There are portions of six bear managementlicence areas that are located within the conservationreserve; three are vacant; three are currently allocatedto operators and are managed by Kenora District.Please refer to Figure ESCR-3 for a map of the bearmanagement areas.


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Management Direction:Existing authorized operations within the conservationreserve are permitted to continue. Consistent withconservation reserve policy, licences will not be issuedfor any of the three bear management areas which havenever been allocated in the past. Transfers of BMAlicences will be considered subject to the ‘test ofcompatibility’ provided that there are no demonstratedimpacts to the values the conservation reserve isintended to protect.

4.5.3 HuntingThe conservation reserve is located within WildlifeManagement Unit (WMU) 2. Both resident and non-resident hunters target moose, white-tailed deer, blackbear and upland birds. Moose hunting provides aquality tourism opportunity for operators in the area.

Management Direction:Hunting is a permitted activity within the conservationreserve and is regulated under the Fish and WildlifeConservation Act, the Migratory Birds Convention Act, andthe Endangered Species Act. The construction ofpermanent “hunt camps” will not be permitted withinthe conservation reserve (see section 4.2.7).

4.5.4 Wildlife Population Management

Management Direction:Wildlife population management will follow the mostappropriate and current resource management directionthat is applicable to the area immediately outside theconservation reserve boundary. This direction will beconsistent with other management direction within thisResource Management Plan.

4.5.5 Wildlife Viewing

Management Direction:The conservation reserve was designated to protect thesignificant natural resource values that occur within theEagle-Snowshoe area. Wildlife viewing is consistentwith management objectives and this activity issupported through this management plan.

4.6 Other Alternate Uses

4.6.1 CollectingThe Ministry of Natural Resources does not issuepermits for commercial collections of natural resourcesand this management plan does not support this activity.Collections of a personal nature, such as gatheringwildflowers and antler sheds, will be considered anexisting use and are supported by this management plan.However, collectors need to be aware that these activitiesmay be subjected to other legislation (i.e., EndangeredSpecies Act).

4.6.2 Food Harvesting (Commercial)Commercial food harvesting would include activitiessuch as blueberry picking or the harvesting of wildmushrooms for the purpose of selling for profit.Currently there is no known commercial foodharvesting operations occurring within the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve.

Management Direction:This management plan does not support commercialfood harvesting within the conservation reserve as thisactivity may negatively impact values which theconservation reserve was designated to protect.

4.6.3 Food Gathering (Personal)Food gathering would include blueberry picking orwild mushroom picking for personal use. This activitydoes not include hunting or fishing.

Management Direction:Personal food gathering is a permitted within theconservation reserve and will be supported by thismanagement plan.

4.6.4 Historical AppreciationThe cultural heritage values of the conservation reserveseem to be limited to the pre-historic hunter-gatherersof the boreal forest and Canadian Shield. The fur tradeperiod is well represented within the area through itsuse as a travel route to local trading posts in the RedLake area and on Lake Winnipeg. These travel routesplay a key role in understanding the economic andecological relationships of the people who haveoccupied the land for the past 6,000 years.

In the Eagle-Snowshoe conservation reserve there are11 recorded archaeological sites. Most of these sites,which include small campsites, were identified duringbrief surveys for the West Patricia Inventory Projectconducted during the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. Inorder to protect these sensitive values, specific sitelocations are protected and are not published in thismanagement plan.

Management Direction:Ontario archaeological sites and artifacts are protectedthrough provincial legislation under the Cemetery Act,the Ontario Heritage Act and the Planning Act.Alteration, destruction, and/or removal of anyarchaeological values are prohibited by law and couldresult in prosecution and significant fines.Archaeological research or studies undertaken will bepermitted through this management plan, but will besubject to the Acts identified above prior to initiation ofany study.

Furthermore, approved and licensed research may bebeneficial in documenting the cultural/historicalsignificance of the protected area. Additional studiescould help to identify and ultimately ensure theprotection of historical artifacts, provided that theresearch is conducted in a manner that does notcompromise the values that have been previouslydocumented for the conservation reserve.

This management plan will continue to support theprotection of the area’s historical archaeological values.

4.6.5 Inventory/Monitoring

Management Direction:Research inventories and monitoring activities arepermitted within the conservation reserve. Theseactivities are encouraged in order to provide a betterunderstanding of the natural processes occurring in thearea and to enhance the protection of significant valuesthrough improved planning and management. Thismanagement plan supports the continuation of theseactivities provided that they do not negatively impactthe values the conservation reserve is intended toprotect.

Individuals or groups with an interest in conductingresearch in this conservation reserve are required tosubmit a completed application to the Ministry ofNatural Resources. Further information about thisprocess and the required application are available athttp://www.ontarioparks.com/english/form2.html.

4.6.6 Wild Rice HarvestingUnder the Wild Rice Harvesting Act (1960), except underthe authority of a licence, no person shall harvest orattempt to harvest wild rice on Crown land. In 1978, afive-year moratorium was passed on issuing additionallicences to any non-native persons until such a timethat “the market potential could support increasedproduction by non-native harvesters”. Five years later,a review of that decision resulted in the moratoriumbeing extended indefinitely in the Kenora and DrydenDistricts for non-native harvesters. Current harvestingof wild rice is managed by individual First NationsBands.

Management Direction:Commercial wild rice harvesting rights within theEagle-Snowshoe area are held by WabaseemoongIndependent Nations members and harvesting forpersonal use is permitted for Treaty 3 status members.Non-natives and non-status individuals cannot harvestrice for any use. Should opportunities for commercialwild rice become available in the conservation reserve,an amendment to this plan will be considered.

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Every effort has been made to provide managementdirection that addresses current activities and levels ofuse within the Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve.Efforts were also made to anticipate and plan for futureresource use in the preparation of this management plan.

There is no intent to carry out a comprehensive reviewof the Eagle Snowshoe Conservation Reserve ResourceManagement Plan at any prescribed interval. Usingadaptive management, the resource managementpolicies in this document will be kept current throughperiodic amendments resulting from changes ingovernment policy, new resource information or inresponse to public need.

Proposed amendments must not alter the overall intentof the Eagle Snowshoe Conservation Reserve ResourceManagement Plan. An amendment to the plan may berequested at any time and the District Manager willdecide whether or not to consider it. Requests foramendments must have a basis in fact, demonstrablyrelate to the scope of the plan, and respond to changingresource conditions, new information, changinggovernment policies or public need. The Ministry ofNatural Resources also has the authority to initiateamendments in response to new information orchanged conditions.

Amendments will be classified as either minor or major.Minor amendments are those changes that do not havea negative effect on the public, adjacent landowners orthe environment and are generally administrative innature. Minor amendments will be approved by theDistrict Manager and will not normally be subject topublic consultation. Major amendments have asignificant social, economic and/or environmentalimpact. Major amendments will be reviewed by theDistrict Manager and submitted to the RegionalDirector for approval. Public consultation will occur forall major amendments and notice of all majoramendments will be posted on the Environmental Billof Rights registry.

Blackburn, C.E. Blackburn Geological Services, EarthScience Inventory Check List for Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve, 2001

Blackburn Geological Services, Earth Science Inventoryfor Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve, 2000

Jones, Mike. Northern Bioscience, Life Science Inventoryfor Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve, 2000

Northern Bioscience, Natural Heritage Area-Life ScienceChecksheet for Eagle-Snowshoe Conservation Reserve, 2001

Kenora District Fisheries Management Plan, 1987-2000

OMNR Northwest Region, Eagle-Snowshoe ConservationReserve Background Information Document

OMNR Northwest Region, Eagle-Snowshoe ConservationReserve Recreational Inventory Report, 2001

Ranta, B.. OMNR, Report on Woodland Caribou andTheir Use of Habitats in the Kenora Management Unit andSouthern Portions of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.2001


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5.0 Amendments to Resource Management Plan

6.0 References

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Activity Permitted Guidelines

Lands and Waters Resource Use

Aggregate Extraction NO

Energy Transmission andCommunications Corridors NO Unless no demonstrated alternatives exist.

Commercial Hydro Development NO

Mineral Exploration and Development NO

Peat Extraction NO

Commercial TourismExisting YESNew NO

Outfitting ServicesExisting YES New ecotourism opportunities may be considered

subject to the “test of compatibility”.New NO

Outpost CampsExisting YESNew NO

Resorts/LodgesExisting YESNew NO

Private Recreation Camps NO

Campgrounds NO

Crown Land CampingResident YESNon-resident YES

Campsite Designation NO

Access RoadsExisting YESNew NO

Crown Land Dispositions NO No overnight roofed accommodations will be permitted.

Commercial Boat CachesExisting YES New caches may be considered if a net benefit for the

Signature Site is demonstrated.New YES

Appendix ESCR 1: Permitted Uses Summary Table


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Resource Harvester Boat CachesExisting YES Relocation of existing boat caches, or new boat cachesNew YES will be subject to the “test of compatibility”.

Recreation Boat CachesExisting YES Relocation of existing boat caches, or new boat cachesNew YES will be subject to the “test of compatibility”.

Trail DevelopmentExisting YESNew NO

All Terrain Vehicle UseExisting YESNew NO

SnowmobilingExisting YESNew NO

Rock ClimbingExisting YESNew NO

SignageExisting YESNew YES

Motor Boat Use YES

Non-Motorized Recreation Travel YES

Fisheries Resource

Commercial Fishing NO

Bait-fish HarvestExisting YES Requests for transfers will be considered based on the

‘test of compatibility’.New N/A

Sport Fishing YES Subject to conservation limits in accordance with the current annual Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary.

Fish Stocking MAYBE Subject to the Environmental Assessment Act.

Fish Habitat Management YES


Forestry Resources

Commercial Timber Harvest NO

Insect/Disease Suppression MAYBE If forest/vegetation is threatened by infestation of non-native species.

Fuelwood and other small scale uses MAYBE Applications will only be considered from property owners for personal use.

Vegetation Management YES Consistent with management direction for areas immediately outside of conservation reserve.

Fire Suppression YES According to Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario and Conservation Reserves Policy.

Prescribed Burning MAYBE Plans to be developed in accordance with MNR Prescribed Burn Planning Manual and the Class EA for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves.

Wildlife Resources

Commercial Fur HarvestingExisting YESNew NO Existing commercial fur harvesting activity by

aboriginal people can continue indefinitely. Transfer of traplines between status Indians is permitted and transfer of traplines to non-native trappers will be considered subject to the “test of compatibility”. No new opportunities for trapline areas exist within the conservation reserve as all areas are currently allocated.”

Trap Cabins

Existing YESNew NO Relocation of existing cabins may be considered

subject to “test of compatibility”. New cabins will be encouraged outside the conservation reserve, but may be considered within the CR in the interest of safety and practicality.

Bear Hunting by Non-residentsExisting YESNew NO Transfer in BMA ownership will be considered subject

to “test of compatibility”.

Hunting YES

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Wildlife Population Management MAYBE In accordance with the most appropriate and current direction that is applicable to the area immediately outside the conservation reserve boundaries.

Wildlife Viewing YES

Other Alternate Uses

CollectingCommercial NOPersonal YES Subject to applicable legislation.

Food Harvesting (Commercial) NO

Food Harvesting (Personal) YES

Historical Appreciation YES Subject to applicable legislation.

Inventory/Monitoring YES

Law Enforcement YES

Research YES Subject to applicable legislation.

Wild Rice HarvestingExisting YESNew NO Subject to existing policy direction.

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Appendix ESCR-2: Test of Compatability


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Bait-fish/Leech Block # Managed by:

507951 Kenora District, OMNR





Appendix ESCR-3: Bait-fish/Leech harvest blocks of ESCR (C2405)

Pipestone Bay–McIntosh Enhanced Management Area (E2359r)Resource Management Guideline

P i p e s t o n e B a y - M c I n t o s h E n h a n c e d M a n a g e m e n t A r e a

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1 .0 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................................1

2.0 Description .................................................................................................................................................22.1 Boundary ......................................................................................................................................3

3.0 Land Use Direction ...................................................................................................................................43.1 Access .............................................................................................................................................4

4.0 Crown Land Disposition and Development.............................................................................................54.1 Management Direction...................................................................................................................5

4.1.1 Tourism Development............................................................................................................54.1.2 Other Crown Land Disposition..............................................................................................5

5.0 Commercial Activities ...............................................................................................................................65.1 Management Direction...................................................................................................................6

5.1.1 Forest Operations .............................................................................................................65.1.2 Mineral Exploration ........................................................................................................65.1.3 Aggregate Extraction .......................................................................................................75.1.4 Peat Extraction ................................................................................................................75.1.5 Bait Fishing.....................................................................................................................75.1.6 Fur Harvesting................................................................................................................75.1.7 Bear Management Areas..................................................................................................75.1.8 Wild Rice Harvesting ......................................................................................................7

6.0 Crown Land Recreation ............................................................................................................................86.1 Management Direction...................................................................................................................8

6.1.1 Crown Land Recreation....................................................................................................86.1.2 Hunting ..........................................................................................................................86.1.3 Angling ...........................................................................................................................86.1.4 Other Recreation ..............................................................................................................8

7.0 Plan Review and Amendment ..................................................................................................................9

8.0 Summary ...................................................................................................................................................9

AppendicesAppendix A Best Practices ................................................................................................................10Appendix B Summary of Permitted Uses ..........................................................................................16

P i p e s t o n e B a y – M c I n t o s h E n h a n c e d M a n a g e m e n t A r e a

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Table of Contents

List of FiguresPipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA Overview EMA - 1 .................................................................................21Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA Commercial Activities EMA - 2 ...............................................................22Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA Life Science Attributes EMA - 3 ..............................................................23Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA Regulated Crown Land EMA - 4..............................................................24Camping Zone

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The Pipestone Bay – McIntosh Enhanced ManagementArea (EMA) is a recreation category EMA within theRed Lake Administrative District of the Ministry ofNatural Resources (see fig. EMA-1). This EMA is partof the Woodland Caribou Signature Site, one of ninefeatured areas under Ontario’s Living Legacy Land UseStrategy announced in 1999. It was chosen because ofits important natural and cultural heritage values, andits significant recreation potential including its role insupporting existing remote resource-based tourism. Assuch, it has potential to make lasting contributions toOntario’s landscape, biodiversity and economy.

The Signature Site consists of the existing WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park (wilderness class), fourproposed park additions, the adjacent Eagle-SnowshoeConservation Reserve and the Pipestone-McIntoshEnhanced Management area, a complex consisting ofover 544,160 hectares (ha) of lands and waters inOntario’s boreal forest region.

All industrial activities permitted within EMAs such asforestry and mining will be conducted with carefulconsideration for the park's wilderness values andremote tourism potential. The management of theseprotected and enhanced management areas will helpensure the ecological and economic health of theWoodland Caribou Signature Site, and its surroundingcommunities, for future generations.

This document has been developed to providemanagement direction for the EMA that is consistentwith the Woodland Caribou Signature SiteManagement Plan and the overall objectives for therecreation category of this EMA.

1.0 Introduction


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The Pipestone Bay -McIntosh EMA is 22,281 hectaresin size, is situated 20 kilometers west of Red Lake, andfalls within the Red Lake Forest and Whiskey JackForest Management Units. It comprises 2 separateareas of land:n The larger portion to the west and north of Red

Lake, adjacent to the existing Woodland CaribouProvincial Park and proposed additions is 19,273 hain size; and,

n A smaller area to the southeast (near Onnie Lake)that abuts the existing park is 3,008 ha in size.

The Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy indicatesthat recreation EMAs are intended to protect remoterecreation values. These areas will be managed toprovide high-quality recreation, and protection ofresource-based tourism and natural values within aremote or semi remote forested setting, while alsopermitting sustainable business and industrial activities.

The original designation announced in 1999 underOntario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy was for aremote access category EMA. After carefulconsideration of the history of this area, the land useintent, and the management direction for accessdeveloped through the signature site planning process,the enhanced management area has been proposed as arecreation category EMA. The direction for this EMAwill continue to provide the public and tourismoperators with high-quality remote recreationalexperiences including hunting, fishing, canoeing, andcamping. Access into the area will be carefully plannedto avoid undesirable impact on park and tourism values,and the headwaters of the Bloodvein River. This areawill play a significant role in protecting wildernessvalues outside the parks and protected areas systemwhile permitting public use of new roads except toaccess Woodland Caribou Provincial Park orrecommended additions outside access zones designatedin the park. The Onnie Lake portion of the EMA willcontinue to have road use restrictions on all new roads.

The Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA falls entirelywithin Treaty #3 and supports many Anishinaapektraditional pursuits such as trapping, hunting, fishing,and berry picking. Six traplines intersect throughoutthe EMA and are currently held by both native andnon-native trappers. Historically, this EMA isimportant for its link to the Bloodvein River andGammon River systems which were main travel routesfor the Anishinaapek people moving through or livingin the Red Lake area.

The Bloodvein River system is 300 km long and runsfrom northwestern Ontario to the mouth of LakeWinnipeg in Manitoba. The source itself comes fromthe Berens River Plateau. The river is a link betweentwo vast wilderness parks: Woodland CaribouProvincial Park in Ontario and Atikaki Provincial Parkin Manitoba. Manitoba and Ontario supported thedesignation of the Bloodvein River as a CanadianHeritage River System in the mid-1980s.

This EMA is also located in a part of Ontario that has adiversity of earth and life science features (e.g., prairieboreal features), as well as wildlife, tourism, recreationand cultural heritage values (see fig. EMA-3).

A large forest fire in 1986 has characterized thelandscape, which comprise approximately 70 percentold burn consisting primarily of jack pine forestregeneration and sparse deciduous growth. Thesouthwestern portion is dominated by older jack pineforest (1974 burn) with feather moss ground cover andextensive lichen on the open bedrock areas. A smallportion of the south central portion, east of McIntoshLake to Sullivan Lake and south to the park boundary,comprise a mixed upland forest. Two small stands ofred pine exist on the north and western shores ofPipestone Bay. For Ontario, this species is at itsnortherly limit of its range.

The forest-dwelling woodland caribou is also foundthroughout the EMA. Winter habitat capability is moreprevalent in the northern portion of the EMA and willbe able to support wintering populations of caribouonce the forest matures in approximately 40 years time.Moose are currently the primary ungulate due to theforest age class and the abundance of hardwood browseresulting from the 1986 burn. 2

2.0 Description

Commercial forest harvesting continues to occur withinthe Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA through directionprovided by the Red Lake Forest and the Whiskey JackForest Management Plans. Much of the merchantablearea has been harvested recently, (between 1999 and2002), with approximately 1,460 hectares aroundMcIntosh Lake and 880 hectares near Onnie Lake. Theforest management plan provides direction on themanagement of wildlife habitat, the protection of cooland cold water fisheries habitat as well as water qualityissues. Tourism interests are negotiated throughtourism agreements (Resource StewardshipAgreements) which in the past have included seasonalharvest and road use restrictions around the DouglasLake area.

In addition, portions of the EMA contain areas ofsignificant high mineral potential. An area of interest isthe Greenstone belt containing gold, volcanic massivesulfides, gabbro hosted copper-nickel deposits and ironwhich extends from Red Lake into the EMA, much ofwhich is either under patent or leasehold title, or asstaked claims on Crown land. Mining exploration iscontinuing in the area, including exploration forplatinum group metals on patented claims within thePipestone Bay - McIntosh that have previously yieldedcopper, nickel and zinc. Approximately 27 activemining claims are located in the EMA.

2.1 Boundary

The Pipestone Bay - McIntosh EMA boundary hasbeen designed to protect the headwaters of theBloodvein River while recognizing the importance ofthe area for mining and commercial forest interests.The boundary borders the eastern edge of WoodlandCaribou Provincial Park (WCPP) including a smallForest Reserve designation adjacent to WCPP. Forestreserves are designations provided to areas whereprotection is a priority, but some resource use can takeplace with appropriate conditions. The Forest Reservedesignation attached to WCPP recognizes an activemining claim with the intention that the area will beadded to the park once the claim is rescinded throughnormal processes.

The original extent (as described in the Ontario’s LivingLegacy Land Use Strategy 1999) of the WoodlandCaribou Forest Reserve has been reduced through theWoodland Caribou Signature Site planning process,resulting in some boundary modifications in theDouglas Lake and Onnie Lake areas (see discussion onForest Reserve "disentanglement" in the Signature SiteManagement Plan document, page 9).

The Whitefeather Forest and Adjacent Areas Land UseStrategy ‘Keeping the Land’, was recently approved.This strategy identifies new land use dedications for anarea north of the Signature Site and north of the areaof undertaking. Specifically, the North Pipestone Bay-McIntosh Enhanced Management Area (E3202) abutsthe northern boundary of the EMA. Together the twoEMAs encompass the entire headwaters of theBloodvein River watershed.

The EMA also overlaps with a Non-Resident ofCanada Regulated Crown Land Camping Zone (GreenZone) covering the Onnie Lake and McIntosh Lakeportion of this site (see fig. EMA-4).


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3.1 Access

The recreation classification for the Pipestone Bay –McIntosh EMA is intended to maintain the remotecharacter and to protect natural and backcountryrecreational values of areas in and adjacent toWoodland Caribou Provincial Park. These valuesinclude the headwater streams of the Bloodvein Riverwatershed, woodland caribou winter range, PipestoneBay -Lund Lake portage, remote tourism values withinthe park and the adjacent provincially significant Eagle-Finlayson moraine.

Access to the northern portion of Pipestone Bay –McIntosh EMA occurs from the McIntosh Road via thePine Ridge Road primary forest access road. This roadnetwork was primarily constructed to provide forestresource access to the western portion of the Red LakeForest Management Unit. This road is located throughthe middle of the EMA and provides a means ofgaining access to Woodland Caribou Provincial Parkand the Peisk/Lund Lake Recommended Park Additionthrough designated access zones. The Lund Lakeaccess zone (A9), adjacent to the EMA, has beenestablished to allow year-round access to the headwaters of the Bloodvein River system through thePeisk/Lund Lake Recommended Park Addition. ThePine Ridge Road also provides access via an existingsnowmobile trail through the EMA to an authorizedsnowmobile trail in the Peisk/Lund LakeRecommended Park Addition. These trails support falland winter recreation activities.

The Pine Ridge Road is also used by the miningindustry for mineral exploration and provides access formany recreational purposes such as fishing, hunting,and gathering. Personal fuelwood harvest occurs alongthis road. Other low maintenance forest access roadsprovide access to most of the lakes in the EMA.

New roads within this portion of the EMA will also beavailable for recreational activities except where tourismvalues and natural and cultural heritage values within thepark and the EMA are at risk. Road use strategies will beimplemented to protect these values and may includerestrictions through signage, natural traps, removal orabandonment. (See also access strategies sect 5.1.1).

Access to the northern portion of the EMA can also beachieved along the historical portage route connectingPipestone Bay of Red Lake through to Lund Lake.

The southern portion of the EMA located around OnnieLake includes Douglas Creek north to Johnson Lakeincorporates the Forest Reserve that has recently beenreleased through the disentanglement process. Access tothis area can be achieved by the Suffel Lake primary forestaccess road at Johnson Lake which is also a designatedaccess zone for WCPP (A11). Other designated accesszones occur near Douglas Lake from Trout Bay of RedLake and from Douglas Creek as well as from the IriamLake Road to the Hjalmar Lakes via Onnie Lake. (pleasesee section 7.4 of the Woodland Caribou Provincial ParkPlan for a discussion on access zones).

Existing authorized access within the EMA will continue.Public use of new roads in the Onnie Lake area will not bepermitted. Public access will be directed through use ofsignage, natural traps, road removal or abandonment.

Forestry, mining, aggregate extraction andhydroelectric development may occur in this EMA.The remote character will be retained throughplanning and establishing standards for the location andthe use or abandonment of roads and trails. Roads forindustrial and commercial use are permitted; however,their standards should be lower than those governingprimary access roads.

Planning for roads is achieved through the ForestManagement Planning (FMP) process. A monitoringprogram described in the FMP text includes adescription of the program for monitoring roads andwater crossings. The description will include themethods to be used to inspect the physical condition ofroads and water crossings to determine if there areenvironmental or public safety concerns.

3.0 Land Use Direction

The management intent is to protect the remote natureof the EMA. However, the need for improved parkingareas associated with the designated WCPP accesszones at Johnson Lake and Lund Lake will be evaluatedas use patterns change in these areas. Presently there isvery little development in the EMA and any futuredevelopment will be approached strategically in orderto maintain and protect features of biological, culturaltourism, and recreational value.


Crown land disposition will generally be discouraged.Proposals that can demonstrate compatibility with theland use intent of this EMA for remoteness, recreationand protection of values will be considered (seeappendix B for a summary of permitted uses).

4.1.1 Tourism Development There are no tourism facilities within the PipestoneBay – McIntosh EMA; however, there are two mainbase lodges adjacent to the EMA. One is located onDouglas Lake within Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark and the other is located at Bow Narrows at thewest end of Red Lake. Both tourism operations providecanoe outfitting services and promote the historicalportage routes through the EMA into WoodlandCaribou Park.

New opportunities for sportfishing related resource-based tourism in this area are limited by the number oflakes large enough to support this venture and will notbe considered. However, new hunting and eco-tourismopportunities are possible and may be considered forthis EMA. All new development proposals ordispositions will be evaluated for compatibility withnatural heritage and cultural values. Existingcommercial boat caches will be permitted to remain.

4.1.2 Other Crown Land DispositionsThe disposition of Crown land for residentialdevelopment or cottages will not be permitted in thePipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA. Disposition anddevelopment of Crown land may be considered forother activities that are consistent with the managementintent of the Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA.


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4.0 Crown Land Disposition and Development

A range of commercial activities occur within the EMAthat contribute to the economic health of the area.


5.1.1 Forest OperationsThe EMA falls within the Red Lake ForestManagement Unit and a small area of the Whiskey JackForest at the south end of the Onnie Lake portion.These areas will continue to be available for forestmanagement purposes.

Forest management activities must be carried out in amanner consistent with the overall intent for theEnhanced Management Area and the direction containedin this document. Key considerations include protectingwoodland caribou winter range, the headwaters of theBloodvein River, reducing stream crossings, and limitingaccess through strategic road design.

With regard to access for forest managementoperations, the overall intent is to limit, withinoperational constraints, the number, duration andstandard of roads built in the EMA, and to limit thenumber of accessible roadbeds remaining afteroperations are complete. Roads will be planned andconstructed to the lowest standard possible (includingbut not necessarily winter roads only), taking intoaccount economic and operational requirements. Newpermanent roads are not permitted. Roads will beabandoned through a variety of means when no longerrequired for forestry activities, in accordance with theuse management strategy for each road. New roads forsecond chance harvest should be directed to existingroadbeds where possible, with road location andconstruction facilitating access controls andabandonment. Road abandonment will normally includeremoving all culverts and bridges from crossings and inmost cases will require making the road impassable byditching, scarifying or creating a berm.

All new forest access roads will be planned to ensureabandonment when silvicultural and renewal activitiesare completed. The minimization of stream crossings isintended to protect the quality of the water and the fishhabitat they encompass. New roads must be plannedthrough comprehensive long-term access planning thatconsiders the values of the area including futurewoodland caribou winter habitat.

Some guidelines are:n roads should be constructed to the lowest standard

possible; n new roads/trails should be directed to existing

corridors where possible; n layout should consider aesthetics and woodland

caribou habitat mosaic design; andn design and construction should facilitate access

controls and closure/rehabilitation.

Values identified in the Pipestone Bay – McIntoshEMA that are affected by forest management activitieswill be protected through Area of Concern planning asa part of forest management planning. Prescriptions forthese areas will reflect the overall land use intent of theenhanced management area and its contribution to thesignature site.

Salvage operations for insect damage, blow down, andfire events will be permitted through the appropriateforest management planning and approval process.

Personal fuelwood harvest will be permitted within theEMA. This activity is to be authorized by a Non-Commercial Forest Resource Licence in accordancewith the Crown Forest Sustainability Act.

5.1.2 Mineral ExplorationMineral exploration and extraction are permitted in thisEnhanced Management Area. The Ministry of NaturalResources and the Ministry of Northern Developmentand Mines (MNDM) have developed the Guidelines forExploration Best Practices in Enhanced Management Areasin Ontario (2002). These Guidelines describe a numberof “best practices” which all prospectors andexploration companies will be encouraged to follow in

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5.0 Commercial Activities

order to minimize potential negative impacts on theenvironment (See Appendix A). The “best practices”guidelines give information on how to address issuessuch as road/trail building, working close to water,abandonment procedures and camp operations.

Where approval is permitted for exploration activities, aprotocol will be implemented to ensure that critical up-to-date values information is provided to the Ministryof Northern Development and Mines by the Ministryof Natural Resources. This information will helpprospectors and developers to conduct their activitieswithout negatively impacting known values.

5.1.3 Aggregate ExtractionAt present there are no commercial aggregateoperations within the EMA. New aggregate extractionactivity within the Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA willbe limited to those operations required for theconstruction and maintenance of forest access roads,and for mining exploration and development. Nocommercial aggregate operations to support otheractivities will be permitted.

Aggregate supplies may be extracted from gravel pitswithin the road right-of-way or within areas approvedfor allocations, where required for the construction andmaintenance of forest access roads within the EMA. Inthe cases where sufficient aggregate supplies are notavailable, aggregate may be extracted outside of theroad right-of-way or approved allocations through thestandard permitting process currently in place. Anypits will be rehabilitated at the end of the period of use.

Aggregate operations will not be permitted within 200metres of any shoreline or waterway.

5.1.4 Peat ExtractionAt present there is no commercial peat extractionwithin the EMA. Commercial peat extractionopportunities are limited and new proposals within thePipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA will not be permitted.

5.1.5 Bait FishingSix commercial bait fish blocks intersect with this EMAand this activity will be permitted to continue. Access bysnow machines and all terrain vehicles (ATV’s) on existingtrails, and access to baitfish lakes through boat caches orby aircraft will continue to be permitted in the EMA. Newtrails and resource harvester boat cache requests that arerequired to pursue these activities will be evaluated forcompatibility with natural heritage and cultural values.

5.1.6 Fur HarvestingFur harvesting activities, represented by six traplines,occur within the EMA and will be permitted tocontinue (see fig. EMA-2). Access by snow machinesand all terrain vehicles on existing trails, and access totraplines from boat caches or by aircraft will continueto be permitted. New trails and resource harvester boatcache requests that are required to pursue theseactivities will be evaluated for compatibility withnatural heritage and cultural values.

Vacant lines will be offered first to First Nations withinthe respective treaty areas of Treaty 3 and Treaty 5.

5.1.7 Bear Management AreasThere are four BMA’s under agreement within the EMAthat provide bear hunting opportunities for non residentsof Canada (Fig. EMA-2). This activity is permitted tocontinue. Existing boat caches for this activity will bepermitted to remain and new boat cache requests will beevaluated for compatibility with natural heritage andcultural values. Opportunities for new BMA’s are notavailable. Transfer in BMA ownership will be consideredif this activity (bear hunting) is compatible with existingnatural heritage and cultural values.

5.1.8 Wild Rice HarvestingThere are presently no wild rice areas licensed forharvest within the EMA. Wild rice lakes exist adjacentto the EMA on Pipestone Bay and the Crystal Lakearea. New opportunities for commercial wild riceharvesting will be considered for First Nation people(subject to existing policy direction).


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There are many recreational activities that occur withinthe Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA. These include,but are not restricted to Crown land camping, hunting,fishing, gathering and snowmobiling.


6.1.1 Crown Land RecreationBack-country activities such as Crown land camping,canoeing, skiing, snowshoeing, berry picking, anglingand hunting will continue to be a permitted uses withinthe EMA. Public travel by vehicle, snowmobile andATV’s will continue to be permitted along existing roadnetworks and trails. Proposals for new winterrecreational trails by Red Lake area snowmobile clubswill be considered for the northern portion of thisEMA only. Trail layout and design will be evaluated forcompatibility with natural heritage and cultural values.

Existing private recreational and commercial boatcaches are permitted to continue within the EMA. Newboat cache requests will be evaluated for compatibilitywith natural heritage and cultural values.

Use of the McIntosh Road via the Pine Ridge Road willbe permitted for recreational activities; however, theuse of this road system to access Woodland CaribouProvincial Park is permitted only at the Lund Lakeaccess trail. New roads proposed for this area willremain open for public travel unless this access isconsidered a threat to values within the EMA oradjacent park land. (See strategies in section 3.1 and5.1.1). New roads within the Onnie Lake portion ofthis EMA will not be available for public vehicle travel.

The EMA boundary also includes a portion of theregulated Non-Resident of Canada Crown LandCamping Zone (Green Zone). Overnight camping bynon-residents of Canada is not permitted within thiszone. This area has been designated to protect theOnnie Lake fishery and existing tourism establishmentsconnected to this waterway (see fig.EMA-4). Although

Onnie Lake and the Douglas Creek system is aconvenient stop over location before entering orleaving the park, guests are not permitted to over night.Non-residents of Canada using this access point toenter or exit the park are required to plan appropriatelyto avoid overnight camping within this zone.Accommodation for overnight stays must be at atourism facility or a location outside of the zone.

6.1.2 HuntingHunting will continue as a permitted use in the EMA.

The Pipestone Bay – McIntosh EMA falls withinWildlife Management Unit 2. Moose, black bear, andgrouse hunting are the primary game in the area. Thisarea receives more hunters than any other area in thesignature site due to its accessibility by road.

6.1.3 AnglingAngling is a permitted activity within the EnhancedManagement Area.

The EMA is located in Fishing Division 31. Most lakesin the EMA are significant cool water fisheries habitatand are accessible by logging roads.

6.1.4 Other RecreationThere is an historical portage route connectingDouglas Lake to Onnie and Hjalmar Lakes once usedby early fur traders, which is of significant recreationalvalue. This portage will be maintained as access intoWoodland Caribou Provincial Park for continued usefor back-country canoeing and hiking in the area.

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6.0 Crown Land Recreation

There is no intent to carry out a comprehensive reviewof the Pipestone Bay -McIntosh EMA ResourceManagement Guideline at any prescribed interval.Using adaptive management, the resource managementpolicies in this document will be kept current throughperiodic amendments resulting from changes ingovernment policy, new resource information or inresponse to public comment.

Proposed amendments must not alter the overall intentof the EMA. An amendment to the plan may berequested at any time and the District Manager willdecide whether or not to consider it. Requests foramendments must be based in fact, relate to the scopeof the EMA, respond to changing resource conditions,new information, changing government policies, andpublic need. In addition, the MNR also has theauthority to initiate amendments in response to newinformation or changed conditions (For moreinformation, please obtain a copy of Procedures for theAmendment of Area-specific Crown Land Use Policy).

Amendments will be classified as either minor or major.Minor amendments are changes that do not have anegative effect on the public, major stakeholders, or theenvironment and are generally administrative in nature.Minor amendments will be approved by the DistrictManager and will not normally be subject to publicconsultation.

Major amendments are those that have a significantsocial, economic, and/or environmental impact. Majoramendments will be reviewed by the District Managerand submitted to the Regional Director for approval.Public consultation will occur for all major amendmentsand notice of all major amendments will be posted onthe Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR) registry.

The Pipestone Bay - McIntosh EMA contributessignificantly to the management and protection ofvalues associated with Woodland Caribou ProvincialPark while acknowledging the value of recreation forthe residents of the Red Lake area. In addition, thisEMA also provides a new road access option to thenorth east corner of the park and in particular to theheadwaters of the Bloodvein River system.

The approved Land Use Strategy for the WhitefeatherForest and Adjacent Areas (EBR # PB03E1003 June 26,2006) increases the area of the Pipestone Bay –McIntosh EMA northward (North Pipestone Bay-McIntosh EMA) to fully include the headwaters of theBloodvein River watershed. This is also an importantstep to acknowledging the importance of this large riversystem.

The EMA is also an area of high mineral potential withactive mineral exploration. The conservation and theprotection of EMA values, potentially impacted by thisactivity, will rely on a working relationship with themineral sector and the development of a protocol toensure "best practices" are carried out duringexploration work.

Success in maintaining the ecological integrity of thisarea and its remoteness will be achieved through anadaptive management approach. As new information isbrought forward regarding areas of mineral exploration,forest harvest and access roads, as well as new flora andfauna values, this document will serve as the directionand guidance for addressing operational concernsaround sensitive areas. It will also contribute to theoverall protection of the signature site’s values andfeatures.


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7.0 Plan Review and Amendment 8.0 Summary

IntroductionThese guidelines affirm the mineral explorationindustry's commitment to sustainable development, aconcept that requires balancing the need for economicgrowth with good stewardship in the protection ofhuman health and the natural environment. Theguidelines offer practical methods and best practiceswhich, when applied, will ensure that an explorationproject is carried out with the lowest levels ofdisturbance possible to its natural surroundings withinEnhanced Management Areas (EMA’s). The suggestedguidelines do not take precedence over Ontario statutesand regulations but rather comply with them byproviding standard procedures for maintaining goodenvironmental practice at the various stages in theexploration process.

Seven categories of EMA have been defined in Ontario'sLiving Legacy Land Use Strategy. These are defined withthe use of subscripts to the acronym EMA, as follows:

n – natural heritageg – Great Lakes coastal areasr – recreationt – resource based tourisma – remote accessi – intensive forestryw – fish and wildlife

The following prescriptions are extracted from theOntario's Living Legacy Land Use Strategy documentreleased in July 1999:

Land Use Designation Enhanced ManagementArea“Enhanced Management Areas is a new land usecategory that has been established in order to providemore detailed land use direction in areas of specialfeature or values.”

“Enhanced Management Areas may lead tomodifications (e.g. timing, location, method, andaccess) in resource-management practices in order torecognize other land use values. These adjustmentswill be implemented with no impact on wood supply,and only in exceptional cases will wood costs beaffected. EMAs will provide a specific focus for theapplication of guidelines and other planning andmanagement strategies. More detailedimplementation strategies will be developed with theparticipation of stakeholders.”

Explorationists should ensure that they have an up todate EMA Values Maps for the EMA within which theyare conducting exploration activities. EMA ValuesMaps will be provided to the explorationist by theMinistry of Northern Development and Mines incooperation with the Ministry of Natural Resources.The exploration community should ensure that theyidentify any natural heritage, recreational, fish andwildlife, tourism or forestry (e.g. plantation) valueswithin their exploration area of interest. By followingthe suggested guidelines contained herein, members ofthe Ontario exploration industry may carry out theirwork in the search for new wealth in enhancedmanagement areas with confidence that they are doingso in an environmentally sensitive manner.

Protecting Values in Enhanced Management AreasCareful regard and avoidance of impact is stronglyrecommended to protect all values in EnhancedManagement Areas. This document includes Area ofConcern (A.O.C.) prescriptions for protecting fish andwildlife values (Appendix 1). The A.O.C. prescriptionsare found within forest management plans written for

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Appendix A: Guidelines for Exploration Best Practices in Enhanced Management Areas

all forest management units in Ontario under the termsof the Crown Forest Sustainability Act. All EMAs arefound within forest management units. The A.O.C.prescriptions are legally binding on forest companies asthey conduct timber harvest, silviculture and forestregeneration activities. The A.O.C. prescriptions havebeen adopted for fish and wildlife values which may beencountered by the exploration community in EMAs.To protect other values such as cultural and heritage,encountered during exploration activities it is stronglyrecommended that site specific measures be developedon a case by case basis in consultation with the MNR.

Observe the following points in the management ofyour exploration program:1. Be aware of the three R’s of exploration and practise

them at every stage of your exploration program.RESPECT the environment in which you work.REFRAIN from unnecessarily disturbing thenatural environment. RESTORE the naturalsetting of areas where you have worked.

2. Ensure that workers are familiar with environmentalprotection measures and industrial hygienerequirements. Make sure that they are aware ofregulatory requirements and environmental codesand are also properly trained to carry out anyprocedures pertaining to environmentally relatedsituations.

3. In the event of a proposed program of advancedexploration under Part 7 of the Mining Act, conductenvironmental baseline studies, consisting of water,soil and, if necessary, lake bottom sampling, prior toany major disturbance of the natural surroundings.These baseline data are essential for the monitoringof the property during its later development.

4. Ensure that your exploration program is designedand budgeted to take into account all potentialsensitivities associated with fish and fish habitat,wildlife, downstream water users, marshes andwetlands, native lands, archaeological sites and allother Crown land values and user groups. Be awarethat exploration activities undertaken in or close tomarshes, bogs, lakes, streams and rivers requirespecial care and planning. Communication with theDistrict Biologist at the local MNR office isstrongly recommended.

Observe the following procedures and practices duringeach stage of your exploration program.Field Reconnaissance1. Be familiar with all statutes, regulations,

amendments, and guidelines governing all aspects ofmineral exploration in the area in which you areworking (Appendix 2). In the event of proposedactivities that exceed allowable disturbances underPart 7 of the Mining Act, consult with the MineralDevelopment Coordinator, MNDM. Before thestart of an advanced exploration program, ensurethat all necessary permits have been acquired andare in place. Be aware of the location of all naturalheritage, recreational, fish and wildlife, tourism orforestry (e.g. plantation) values in the area of yourproposed work operations. These are found on theEMA Values Maps as supplied through the ResidentGeologist Office and the office of the RegionalLand Use Geologist, MNDM, in cooperation withthe MNR. Ensure that you have a copy of the EMAValues Map for your area even if you have not beencontacted.

2. Ensure that all employees, including contractors,stakers and other workers hired for an explorationproject, are trained in and knowledgeable aboutidentification of sensitive natural values,environmental protection measures and industrialhygiene requirements. Make sure that they arefamiliar with regulatory requirements andenvironmental codes (Appendices 1, 2) and areproperly trained to carry out procedures pertainingto environmental protection and remediation.

3. Ensure that contractors and subcontractors knowtheir responsibilities and liabilities and that theydischarge their duties correctly.

4. Minimize disturbance to forestry plantation areas byrespecting fences and gates. Observe all signsposted by landowners, forestry licence holders andrespect the rights of others.

5. Avoid unnecessary disturbance of vegetation andwildlife. Keep vehicles on established roadswhenever possible. Obtain permission and guidancefrom landowners or forest licence holders whentravel to off-road sites is necessary.

6. In principle, carry out what you carry in. Useproper receptacles for refuse and try to leave an areacleaner than it was upon your arrival. With proper


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approvals, reusable items such as lumber, frames,floors, etc., may be neatly piled and stored at thesite.

7. Check for local MNR regulations governing thelighting of fires. The lighting of fires may beprohibited at certain times of the year. Ensure thatappropriate fire fighting equipment in quantitiesappropriate to the number of personnel and type ofactivity is available on site.

8. Ensure that temporary work camps are located,constructed and operated in such a way that theywill have the minimum impact on the environment.Always keep camps neat, orderly, safe and clean andin accordance with local regulations.

9. Avoid any disturbance to community watersheds,fisheries habitat, upwellings and spawning beds byfamiliarizing yourself with their location (Appendix1). Do not operate vehicles or heavy equipment instreams or on stream or pond banks. Keep to aminimum any clearing, grubbing, excavating orother surface disturbances near streams and ponds.If such activity is proposed, preserve a natural bufferzone of undisturbed natural vegetation at least 10metres wide or wider at the water’s edge to preventsiltation. If in doubt, contact your local MNRBiologist.

10. Handle all fuel and hazardous materials with careand avoid spills by ensuring that they are storedproperly. Control any spills and/or leaks byestablishing berms around storage containmentareas and by placing water pumps and portableoperating equipment in metal drip trays. In theevent of a spill, notify the Ministry of theEnvironment and MNR as soon as possible.

11. Use on-site field vehicles and equipment forexploration activities only. Avoid unnecessarydisturbance to nearby residents and wildlife.

Property Acquisition1. Investigate and understand the current status of

surface and mineral rights before you take action toacquire a property. Be familiar with thoseregulations and mining laws governing theacquisition of property as outlined in the OntarioMining Act. Be familiar with the Ontario LivingLegacy Land Use Strategy provisions for withdrawalfrom staking of lands intended for new parks and

conservation reserves.2. Be aware of all regulations and laws relating to

environmental liabilities before you acquire aproperty that has been previously mined, exploredand/or developed. Consider documenting theenvironmental condition of the property at the timeof acquisition with field notes and photographs.

3. Avoid any misunderstanding with surface rightsowners by discussing your presence and plans in thearea with them once you have acquired mineralrights. Ascribe to the notification andcompensation requirements of Sections 78 and 79 ofthe Mining Act. Maintain a cordial relationship withlocal residents and keep them informed during thecourse of your program.

Campsites1. Be familiar with and comply with all statutes,

regulations, amendments and permit requirementsgoverning the operation of campsites. A temporaryencampment may be erected on a mining claim forthe purpose of conducting mineral explorationactivities. If the campsite is not located on a miningclaim, the maximum allowable time for residentcamping on Crown land is 21 days.

2. Locate your campsite away from watercourses andmaintain it in a neat and orderly fashion.

3. Provide sewage treatment facilities capable ofservicing the resident and visiting camp population.Ensure that pit privies, conventional septic tank/tilebed systems, and packaged sewage treatment plantsare designed, installed, and, where necessary,disposed of in accordance with local regulations.Consult with the local health unit for details.

4. Select and use products that pose the least threat tothe environment. Re-use containers as much aspossible and whenever appropriate. Ensure that allproducts, which are recyclable, are taken to arecycling facility.

5. Compost organic kitchen waste. Remove inorganicdomestic waste to approved municipal sites, to anapproved landfill for the camp, or to a recyclingfacility. In regions populated by bears, establish aspecial containment system for kitchen wastes.

6. Confine fuels, lube oils and greases during storageand transportation. Ensure that used oil facilitiesare established at all permanent sites and are

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regularly monitored. Collect and remove hazardoussubstances used in machinery (such as batteries) todesignated disposal facilities.

7. Provide proper first aid and fire protectionequipment at the camp and make sure that theequipment complies with current regulations.

8. Make every effort to avoid attracting wildlife to thecamp.

9. At the end of operations, dismantle campsites thatare to be abandoned. Leave campsites that are to beused for future operations in a clean and tidycondition. Bury organic waste and remove all otherrefuse from the site, taking advantage of recyclingfacilities as much as possible. Backfill all pits inaccordance with local regulations. Where possible,rip up a site that is to be abandoned to break surfacecompaction and allow natural re-vegetation to takeplace.

10. Avoid impacting on natural heritage, recreational,fish and wildlife, tourism or forestry (e.g. plantation)values as defined by MNR on EMA Values Maps, assupplied by the Resident Geologist Office, MNDM.

Road Building and Access1. Consult with your local MNR office and initiate

Work Permit process for new road construction(requiring roadbed improvement). Be sensitive tothe needs of other land users; for example, touristlodges and resort operators. Trail construction foraccess to mineral exploration workings (no road bedimprovement and under 3 metres in width) does notrequire a Work Permit.

2. Plan and locate roads and trails to maximumadvantage for your operations but with minimumlevels of construction and disturbance. Takeadvantage of landform and vegetation to screen roadlocations whenever possible. Avoid impacting on allvalues defined on EMA Values Maps supplied byMNR (Appendix 1).

3. Clear right-of-way timber and debris in an orderlymanner. Dispose of debris by (a) burning, ifpermitted; (b) burying in off-road push piles ifpracticable, or (c) in a manner prescribed by localregulations. Whenever possible, stack commercialtimber so that it can be harvested by pulp or timbercompanies. Consult with the licensed forest operatorin the area prior to constructing your road or trail.

4. Provide for erosion and surface water control byinstalling culverts, bridges, waterbars, and ditches,whenever necessary. Keep insloping to a minimum,and provide for frequent water diversions off theroad when necessary. Remove all unnecessaryberms from road edges.

5. Develop a reclamation plan following the detailedroad construction guidelines and Work Permitrequirements.

6. Avoid impacting on natural heritage, recreational,fish and wildlife, tourism or forestry (e.g. plantation)values as defined by the Ontario MNR on EMAValues Maps, as supplied by the Resident GeologistOffice, MNDM.

Geological, Geochemical and Geophysical Surveys1. Avoid unnecessary brush cutting and blazing of

trees while laying out grid lines. Cut grid lines atthe minimum width possible.

2. Upon completion of a survey, remove any wire andother extraneous material that may endanger thelives of birds and other wildlife.

3. Avoid contaminating soil and water during thecourse of your work.


Trenching and Stripping1. Avoid any disturbance to community watersheds,

fisheries habitat, upwellings and spawning beds byfamiliarizing yourself with their location (Appendix1). Do not operate vehicles or heavy equipment instreams or on stream or pond banks. Keep to aminimum any clearing, grubbing, excavating orother surface disturbances near streams and ponds.If such activity is proposed, preserve a natural bufferzone of undisturbed natural vegetation at least 10metres wide or wider at the water’s edge to preventsiltation. If in doubt, contact your local MNRBiologist.

2. Clear timber and debris in an orderly manner.Dispose of debris by (a) burning, if permitted; (b) byburying it in off-road push piles if practicable, or (c)in a manner prescribed by local regulation.


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Whenever possible, stack commercial timber so thatit can be harvested by pulp or timber companies.Consult with the licensed forest operator in the areaprior to constructing your road or trail.

3. Backfill, cover and revegetate all excavations andother surface disturbances that have not exposedreusable geological information such as outcrop.Avoid excessive stripping by using backhoes orexcavators rather than bulldozers whenever possible.

4. If your proposed area of stripping exceeds an area10,000m2 or is within 100 m of a waterbody andexceeds an area of 2,500m2, you must file a closureplan under Part 7 of the Mining Act. Contact theMineral Development Coordinator at the MNDM.


Drilling1. Ensure that drilling company workers under

contract are aware of current environmentalregulations and will comply with them in the courseof their work. Clearly define all environmental andindustrial hygiene responsibilities, duties andliabilities of the contractor in contractors'agreements.

2. Keep to a minimum any noise pollution producedby equipment.

3. Ensure that contractors avoid impacting on naturalheritage, recreational, fish and wildlife, tourism orforestry (e.g. plantation) values as defined by MNRon EMA Values Maps, as supplied by the ResidentGeologist Office, MNDM.

4. Locate drill sites and water lines in areas whereaccess to them and their operation will create theleast amount of disturbance. Take advantage oflocal landform and vegetation to screen drillingactivities whenever possible.

5. Eliminate the need for elaborate access roads byusing the smallest size of drilling equipment anddrill holes that will ensure an adequate sampling ofthe target that you are seeking.

6. Ensure that proper receptacles for debris areprovided and used at drill sites and that sites arecleaned up as soon as equipment has been removed.

7. Do not allow drilling wastes to run uncontrolledover land or ice surfaces or into watercourses.Recycle as much drilling mud and water as possibleby using tanks or sumps.

8. Avoid wasting water by installing and using shut-offvalves when water lines are not in use.

9. Use biodegradable materials whenever possible.10. Keep on site oil-absorbent material and/or oil

booms (depending on the amounts of fuelstored) for use in the event of a spill.

11.Upon completion of drilling, remove the drill casingand cap or plug the drill hole.

Abandonment of Exploration Activity1. Out slope and remove all berms from roads no

longer needed, and install appropriate water barriersand other erosion control structures. Removeculverts, low bridges and other structures that maycause blockage or unwanted diversion ofwatercourses.

2. Backfill and grade all open excavations such asexploration trenches, adits and shaft waste dumps asclose to the original contour as possible. Grade tocontour or smooth out drill sites, building sites,roads, or other major disturbances resulting fromconstruction during the exploration program.

3. Cap or plug drill holes and close or otherwise makesafe from unauthorized entry, all tunnels, shafts andother openings. Make sure that procedures on siteabandonment contained in Part 7 of the Mining Acthave been correctly followed.

4. Remove all trash and other foreign material fromthe exploration area and dispose of in an approvedwaste disposal site.

5. Where possible and at the proper time of the year,re-vegetate all disturbed surface areas by plantingtrees which are suitable for the area. In addition oras an alternative, prepare the disturbed surfaces in away that will encourage maximum natural re-vegetation.

6. Inspect gates and fences used for access to ensurethat they have not been damaged.

7. When abandoning exploration sites in claim-stakedareas close to settled areas, remove any physicalevidence of work such as ribbons and pickets. Beaware that most jurisdictions do not allow staking

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posts or survey monuments to be removed.8. Advise local residents, landowners, native groups

and government officials that you are abandoningthe site.

9. Avoid impacting on natural heritage, recreational,fish and wildlife, tourism or forestry (e.g. plantation)values as defined by the MNR on EMA ValuesMaps, as supplied by the Resident Geologist Office,MNDM.

(Modified after the Prospectors and Developers Association ofCanada Guidelines for Exploration Practice, 1998)


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Appendix B: Permitted Uses Table

Activity

Lands and Waters Resource Use

Aggregate Extraction

Energy Transmission andCommunications Corridors

Commercial Hydro Development

Mineral Exploration and Development

Peat Extraction

Commercial TourismExistingNew

Outfitting ServicesExistingNew

Outpost CampsExistingNew

Resorts/LodgesExistingNew

Private Recreation Camps

Campgrounds

Permitted

Yes

No

No

Yes

No

NoYes

NoYes

NoYes

NoNo

No

No

Guidelines

New aggregate extraction within the Pipestone Bay –McIntosh EMA will be limited to the construction andmaintenance of forest access roads, and for miningexploration and development.

Unless no demonstrated alternatives exist.

No potential for hydro development exists within EMA

Follow "Guidelines for Exploration Best Practices inEnhanced Management Areas" to ensure explorationprojects are carried out with the lowest levels ofdisturbance possible to its natural surroundings.

No facilities exist. Subject to individual review, a limited number of non-consumptive eco-tourism facilities may be permitted

New ecotourism opportunities may be consideredsubject to a screening for compatibility with naturalheritage and cultural values

No facilities exist. Subject to individual review, a limited number of non-consumptive eco-tourism facilities may be permitted.

Guidelines

Non resident of Canada are not permitted to campwithin the EMA where the Regulated Crown landCamping Zone overlaps this designation.Camping by non residents within the EMA outside ofthis zone is permitted.

Roads for industrial and commercial use are permitted;however, their standards should be lower than thosegoverning primary access roads. New roads must beplanned through comprehensive long-term accessplanning that considers the values of the area. Someguidelines are:n roads should be constructed to the lowest standard

possible;n new roads/trails should be directed to existing

corridors where possible;n layout should consider aesthetics; andn design and construction should facilitate access

controls and closure/rehabilitation.Public travel on new roads within the Onnie Lake portionof EMA by motorized vehicles will not be permitted

New caches may be considered If a net benefit for theSignature Site is demonstrated

New boat caches will be considered subject to ascreening for compatibility with natural heritage andcultural values.

New boat caches will be considered subject to ascreening for compatibility with natural heritage andcultural values .

New boat caches will be considered subject to ascreening for compatibility with natural heritage andcultural values .


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Activity

Crown Land CampingResidentNon-resident

Campsite Designation

Access RoadsExistingNew

Commercial Boat CachesExistingNew

Resource Harvester Boat CachesExistingNew

Recreation Boat CachesExistingNew

Trail DevelopmentExistingNew

Permitted

YesNo

No

YesYes

YesYes

YesYes

YesYes

YesMaybe

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Activity

All Terrain Vehicle UseExistingNew

SnowmobilingExistingNew

Fisheries Resource

Commercial Fishing

Bait-fish HarvestExistingNew

Sport Fishing

Fish Stocking

Fish Habitat Management

Forestry Resources

Commercial Timber Harvest

Fuelwood and other small scale uses

Fire Suppression

Wildlife Resources

Commercial Fur HarvestingExistingNew

Trap CabinsExistingNew

Permitted

YesYes

YesYes

No

YesN/A

Yes

Maybe

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

YesMaybe

NoYes

Guidelines

Subject to the Environmental Assessment Act.

According to Forest Fire Management Strategy forOntario.

Trapline boundaries may be amended to create newopportunities through subdividing existing lines.

No existing trap cabinsNew cabins may be considered subject to a screeningfor compatibility with natural heritage and culturalvalues


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Activity

Wild Rice HarvestingExistingNew

Bear Hunting by Non-residentsExisting

New

Hunting

Permitted

NoMaybe

Yes

No

Yes

Guidelines

Subject to existing policy direction.

Transfer in BMA ownership will be consideredprovided this activity (bear hunting) is compatible withexisting natural heritage and cultural values

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