Town of Wasaga Beach Beach and Dune Conservation and … and Dune Conservatio… · a role to play in the protection of the beach/dune system. Beach and Dune Formation Prevailing

Town of Wasaga Beach

Beach and Dune Conservation and Protection Discussion Paper

Prepared by David Featherstone

Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority

July 2005

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Executive Summary Background In spring 2004, the Town of Wasaga Beach entered into an agreement with the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) to undertake a Natural Heritage System Update and Review (NVCA, 2004). This review includes a broad, landscape scale natural heritage modeling exercise covering the entire Town as well as four more detailed study components: Eastern Hog-nosed Snake Discussion Paper, Shoreline Study, Dune Outlier Study and South Bank Study. The purpose of this review is to provide the Town with the information and tools necessary to strike an appropriate balance between land and resource use and the protection of the Town’s significant natural features and their functions. Introduction The beach and dune system along the Wasaga Beach shoreline have been subject to intense pressures from tourism and development activity for decades. Despite these pressures, dune systems remain along the shoreline. These systems provide important shoreline protection, aesthetic and natural heritage functions along the shoreline. However, they remain vulnerable to disturbance from human activities. Recent recognition of the important attributes of beach and dune systems and their sensitivity to human impacts has resulted in efforts to effectively manage beach and dune areas to accommodate recreational use and protection of these shoreline features. Within the Town of Wasaga Beach, the Ministry of Natural Resources (Wasaga Beach Provincial Park (WBPP)), the Town, Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA), local residents and tourists all have a role to play in the protection of the beach/dune system. Beach and Dune Formation Prevailing northwest winds have concentrated beaches and dunes along the south and southeast portions of Nottawasaga Bay. Similar to dynamic beach systems found along the eastern shores of Lake Huron, these nearshore features formed over the last 3000 to 4000 years following the recession of post-glacial Lake Nipissing (Peach, 2003). Sand is continually being eroded and deposited on the shore by wave action. Dry beach sands are transported inland by strong winds where they are deposited in foredune areas which are stabilized by dune vegetation. The aboveground portions of dune vegetation assist in retaining sand on the dune while root masses serve to bind and consolidate sand. Marram grass (Ammophila breviligulata), a common dune grass along the Wasaga Beach shoreline, thrives on incoming sand and is adapted to “rise above” these conditions which would thwart most other plant species. Marram grass and other dune-adapted grasses, herbs and shrubs stabilize shoreline dunes. Without this vegetation, windblown sand from the beach would continue to move inland and be lost from the beach/dune system. Beaches and associated dunes are part of an interconnected system. Dunes are reliant on the beach for their formation, particularly during low lake levels. During periods of high lake levels

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and storm events, the beach relies on the dunes’ sand reservoirs to replenish sand on the beach thereby maintaining the beach’s form and function (Peach, 2003). Beach and Dune Functions Sand dunes provide natural shoreline protection during periods of high lake levels. They differ from their constructed counterparts (i.e. revetments and retaining walls) in that they work in tandem with the beach itself to maintain a dynamic equilibrium of shoreline protection and beach replenishment along the shoreline. Dune aesthetics and ecological values of dunes (Peach, 2003) also add to the economic services associated with the beach/dune systems. Foredune vegetation is highly vulnerable to trampling and vehicular damage. Loss of vegetation results in deterioration of the dune as sands are blown from the denuded dune section, resulting in deepening of the trail and eventual sloughing of sand from the sides of the trail. Blowouts can breach the dune’s natural shoreline protection capability. Shoreline Ecological Inventory Coastal vegetation is dynamic. Simpler plant communities on the beach itself (forbs and grasses) give way to more complex vegetation communities on the foredune (shrubs, forbs and grasses) and forested communities on hinddunes that lie landward of the foredunes. Within the Town of Wasaga Beach, the full sequence of dynamic beach communities is rare due to shoreline development. Hinddune communities, in particular, are limited to discrete sites along the shoreline. Near the shoreline, beach and foredune vegetation must be able to tolerate strong winds, sandblasting, temperature extremes and occasional inundation by water (Peach, 2003). Vegetation on the foredunes must also be adapted to extreme heat (up to 60 C in summer), drought conditions and nutrient-deficient soils (Peach, 2003). This results in the formation of rare vegetation communities adapted to these extreme conditions. To document the presence and health of beach, foredune and hinddune communities along the Wasaga Beach shoreline, NVCA staff inspected the Wasaga Beach shoreline (71st Street to Stoney Point) from late summer to mid fall 2004. Vegetation communities along the shoreline were classified to Vegetation Type using the Ecological Land Classification (ELC) protocol (Lee et al., 1999). Quality of vegetation communities was subjectively ranked as high, moderate or low based on visual observations (attached Figure). Rare Vegetation Communities Distinct foredunes begin at 63rd Street and extend to the northeast boundary of the Town. Sagewort wormwood is present throughout all foredune areas. Higher quality foredune areas generally have a high diversity of native dune specialists and species with dune affinities such as marram grass, Canada wild-rye, smooth aster, sand dune willow, beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus), sand cherry (Prunus pumila), shrubby cinquefoil (Potentilla fruticosa), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium).

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Foredune communities are more intact and less disturbed at the west and northeast ends of the Wasaga Beach shoreline. However, foredunes remain at least somewhat intact (though often quite disturbed) over most of the study area. Scattered excavation of foredunes and/or replacement with retaining walls has occurred between Beach 1 and Beach 5. Foredune areas consist of a mix of open sand dune and shrub sand dune areas with significant intergrading between these two vegetation types. Open sand dune areas are best described as Little Bluestem-Switchgrass-Beachgrass Open Dune (SDO1-1). Shrub sand dune areas are best described as Sand Cherry Shrub Dune Type (SDS1-1). Both foredune vegetation community types are very rare in Ontario and often susceptible to extirpation (NHIC website). Significant Wildlife Species In Spring 2005, a pair of endangered piping plovers began nesting preparations along the spit at the mouth of the Nottawasaga River. This species requires undisturbed shoreline dune habitats for nesting and rearing and had not been observed along the Wasaga Beach shoreline since the late 1980s. Although nesting efforts were abandoned, efforts by Wasaga Beach Provincial Park to maintain this area in its natural state and minimize human impacts have provided potential nesting opportunities. Hopefully, in the future, this habitat area will support a small breeding population of piping plover and assist in provincial and national efforts to protect this endangered species. Shoreline Impacts Beach Activities Impacts of trampling are most evident at major beach access points such as the Beach Area parking lots. WBPP staff are working on a pilot project to minimize trampling at these high traffic locations. ATVs, dirt bikes and dune buggies can potentially cause significant impacts on foredune and backdune habitats along the Wasaga Beach shoreline. These recreational vehicles are heavy and rip through sensitive dune vegetation and loose sands resulting in vegetation loss and associated foredune instability. ATVs are more likely to be entering the foredunes during the spring and fall months when crowds and park policing are at a minimum. Although only local impacts have been observed to date, the growing popularity of this activity may result in greater impacts in the future. Beach maintenance activities in front of all numbered WBPP beaches include weekly to bi-weekly raking of the mechanical area between the foredune and water’s edge during the summer months for risk management, cleanliness and aesthetic purposes (M. Shoreman, pers.comm.). Mechanical raking does inhibit the natural regeneration of beach meadow/marsh vegetation; however, affected vegetation communities are relatively common compared to the provincially rare foredune communities and are less sensitive to disturbance. Shoreline Development Older cottage and resort developments along the shoreline are setback from foredunes and have generally respected these areas leaving them relatively untouched except for discrete trails from the buildings to the beach. However, some new shoreline home construction along Wasaga

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Beach has adversely affected foredune areas. Foredunes are often removed to provide better shoreline access/sightlines. Instead of low maintenance backyard gardens leading to the foredune, these properties are characterized by retaining walls and irrigated, manicured lawns. Restoration and Stewardship WBPP has initiated signage and restoration programs to assist in foredune protection and enhancement. Interpretive signage is an important component of public education along the Wasaga Beach shoreline. These signs describe the formation and function of the foredunes and the rarity of associated vegetation communities as well as their sensitivity. At the Beach Area 4 access point, WBPP are using a combination of raked beach detritus, fencing and boardwalks to construct formal pathways from the parking areas to the beach. The purpose of these formal pathways is to direct foot traffic to specific access points and reduce impacts on the remainder of the foredune area. Over time, it is anticipated that this area will naturally rehabilitate and be colonized by native sand dune flora thereby restabilizing this foredune area. WBPP has partnered with local schools and groups such as Collingwood Collegiate Institute, Birchview Dunes Public School and the Wasaga Beach Prime Time Club to restore foredune areas. This work has included installation of snow fencing to rebuild foredunes through natural sand deposition and the planting of marram grass which will stabilize these dunes over time. Recommendations Beach and dune processes are an important component of shoreline heritage (social, economic and natural) and protection along the shores of Wasaga Beach. Municipalities such as the Town of Saugeen Shores have recently incorporated foredune protection policies within their Official Plan and Zoning By-laws. Development along the shoreline should respect provincial policy and Conservation Authorities Act regulations regarding hazardous lands adjacent to the shorelines of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System which protect the foredune area as part of the dynamic beach. An ecosystem approach to shoreline management is essential. NVCA’s Generic Regulation will delineate the dynamic beach as part of the regulated shoreline area along the Town of Wasaga Beach shoreline. The Town, WBPP and NVCA should require protection of intact foredune areas for redevelopment. A site alteration bylaw should be developed to ensure that structures are setback from the foredune area. Education and stewardship activities initiated by WBPP should be expanded, possibly with support from the Town. Through education, permanent and seasonal residents can be better informed of the important functions of foredunes and may become more interested in stewardship activities along the shoreline. There must be buy-in from all stakeholder groups if protection and restoration activities are to succeed over the long term.

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Table of Contents Executive Summary......................................................................................................................................... i Table of Contents .......................................................................................................................................... vi Acknowledgements ..................................................................................................................................... viii 1.0 Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1 2.0 Beach and Dune Formation...............................................................................................................1 3.0 Beach and Dune Functions................................................................................................................4 4.0 Wasaga Beach Shoreline Ecological Inventory ................................................................................4

4.1 Shallow Marsh (Beach).................................................................................................................. 10 4.2 Foredune......................................................................................................................................... 10 4.3 Hinddune........................................................................................................................................ 12 4.4 Significant Vegetation Communities ............................................................................................. 12 4.5 Significant Vegetation Species....................................................................................................... 14 4.6 Significant Wildlife Species........................................................................................................... 15

5.0 Shoreline Impacts............................................................................................................................15 5.1 Pedestrian Impacts ......................................................................................................................... 15 5.2 Recreational Vehicle Impacts......................................................................................................... 15 5.3 Beach Maintenance ........................................................................................................................ 15 5.4 Development Impacts..................................................................................................................... 17

6.0 Restoration and Stewardship Actions..............................................................................................19 7.0 Conclusion and Recommendations .................................................................................................19 8.0 References.......................................................................................................................................22 List of Tables Table 1: Town of Wasaga Beach Shoreline Survey - 71st Street to Stoney Point. Fall 2004 ..........................7 List of Figures Figure 1: Conceptual dynamic beach profile (Peach, 2003)........................................................................... 2 Figure 2: Sand Dune Formation ..................................................................................................................... 3 Figure 3: Vegetation Communities on the Wasaga Beach Shoreline ............................................................. 5 Figure 4: Vegetation on Front of Foredune .................................................................................................. 11 Figure 5: Vegetation on Back of Foredune................................................................................................... 11 Figure 6: Hinddune Vegetation .................................................................................................................... 13 Figure 7: ATV Impact on Dune Vegetation ................................................................................................. 16 Figure 8: ATV Impact on Sand Dune……………………………………………………………………….16 Figure 9: Areas With and Without Mechanical Raking................................................................................ 16 Figure 10: Mechanical Raking Along Beach................................................................................................ 16 Figure 11: Shoreline Homes With Retaining Walls and Manicured Lawns................................................. 18 Figure 12: Conceptual Depiction of Dynamic Beach Hazard Limit............................................................. 18 Figure 13: Public Education Signage ........................................................................................................... 20 Figure 14: Beach Fencing............................................................................................................................. 20 Figure 15: Formal Boardwalk....................................................................................................................... 20 List of Appendices Appendix A: Vascular Plant Species List. Wasaga Beach Shoreline. Fall 2004.

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Acknowledgements The NVCA would like to acknowledge the support of the individuals and agencies that have graciously lent their generous support to this discussion paper. The NVCA thanks: The Town of Wasaga Beach for its dedication to reviewing and updating its natural heritage mapping and policies. Mark Shoreman (Wasaga Beach Provincial Park Superintendent), Jessica Jackson (Wasaga Beach Provincial Park Natural Heritage Educator) and Glenn Cunnington (M.Sc. candidate, Trent University) for their comments on earlier drafts of this report and taking the time to meet with NVCA staff to discuss shoreline issues. Tom Young, Dillon Consulting for his peer review of the draft report and contributing to the strength of the final document.

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1.0 Introduction Wasaga Beach is renowned as the largest freshwater beach in the world. The sandy shoreline of this portion of Nottawasaga Bay was used for travel by First Nations and early settlers. Recreational aspects of the beach soon came to the fore and Wasaga Beach rapidly gained status as a major tourist attraction during the summer months. Tourism continues to constitute the major industry within the Town of Wasaga Beach. The beach and dune system along the Wasaga Beach shoreline have been subject to intense pressures from tourism and development activity for decades. Despite these pressures, areas of high quality dune systems remain along the shoreline. It is now known that dune systems provide important shoreline protection, aesthetic and natural heritage functions along the shoreline. However, these dune systems remain vulnerable to disturbance from human activities. Recent recognition of the important attributes of beach and dune systems and their sensitivity to human impacts has resulted in efforts to effectively manage beach and dune areas to accommodate recreational use and protection of these shoreline features. Within the Town of Wasaga Beach, the Ministry of Natural Resources (Wasaga Beach Provincial Park), the Town, Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA), local residents and tourists all have a role to play in the protection of the beach/dune system. This report begins with a description of the process of beach and dune formation and then discusses ecological and economic imperatives for dune conservation. The ecology of the Wasaga Beach shoreline is then discussed. Human impacts along the shoreline are described followed by a summary of actions taken by Wasaga Beach Provincial Park (WBPP) and local groups to protect/restore shoreline dunes and raise public awareness of dune conservation. The report concludes with a series of recommendations aimed at promoting effective dune management along the Wasaga Beach Shoreline.

2.0 Beach and Dune Formation Prevailing northwest winds have concentrated beaches and dunes along the south and southeast portions of Nottawasaga Bay. Similar to dynamic beach systems found along the eastern shores of Lake Huron, these nearshore features formed over the last 3000 to 4000 years following the recession of post-glacial Lake Nipissing (Peach, 2003). Research indicates that the principal present-day source of sand to the beach environment is likely from the Nottawasaga River (Ball, 1978). River currents entering the bay curl around in an anti-clockwise direction depositing sediments to the west of the river mouth (Kor, 1997). Offshore exposures of till likely contribute minor quantities of sediment to the beach (Kor, 1997). Beaches and associated dunes are part of an interconnected system (Figure 1). Dunes are reliant on the beach for their formation, particularly during low lake levels. During periods of high lake levels and storm events, the beach relies on the dunes’ sand reservoirs to replenish sand on the beach thereby maintaining the beach’s form and function (Peach, 2003). Sand is continually being eroded and deposited on the shore by wave action. Storm waves erode the beach, moving the sand offshore where it is deposited as a sand bar. Sand bars act as shore protection, absorbing incoming waves that would otherwise reach the shore causing further


erosion. Gentle wave action gradually brings the sand from the sand bar back toward the shore and, eventually, the beach (Peach, 2003).

Figure 1: Conceptual dynamic beach profile (Peach, 2003) Once onshore, sand is blown inland with significant movement taking place when wind speeds exceed 20 km/hr (Peach, 2003). Fine-grained sand particles dried by the wind are lifted into the air and carried for long distances. Medium-grained sands move along the beach surface in a series of “jumps” whereas coarse sands are rolled along the beach surface. Fine and medium-grained sands are transported more readily than coarse-grained sands and are preferentially moved to dune areas. Northwest winds of late fall, winter and early spring are the key transporters of sand from beach to dune areas. These storms also remove fine sand from the beach and move it offshore to be deposited on sand bars. Less intense wind action from mid-spring through to mid-fall reverse this process and sands are returned to the beach by gentler wave action (Kor, 1997). When winds encounter obstacles such as vegetation clumps, wind speed is reduced and the sand grains fall out under gravity. Over time, this deposition results in dune formation (Figure 2). As the dune builds, it becomes a major obstacle to the landward movement of windblown sand. Thus, the dune retains sand in close proximity to the beach system (Peach, 2003) rather than allowing continual blowing of sand inland to be deposited on roadways and shoreline residences. The aboveground portions of dune vegetation assist in retaining sand on the dune while root masses serve to bind and consolidate sand. Marram grass (Ammophila breviligulata), a common dune grass along the Wasaga Beach shoreline, thrives on incoming sand and is adapted to “rise above” these conditions which would thwart most other plant species. This grass and other dune-adapted grasses, herbs and shrubs stabilize shoreline dunes. Without this vegetation, windblown sand from the beach would continue to move inland and be lost from the beach/dune system. Periods of dune building tend to be associated with low lake levels as beach sands tend to be drier and more susceptible to wind transport. Conversely, during high lake levels, the beach is narrower and relatively moist, inhibiting wind transport. Storm waves may also erode the base of the dune and carry that sand to offshore bars (Peach, 2003).


Figure 2: Sand Dune Formation


3.0 Beach and Dune Functions The foredune, located next to the beach, is the most critical part of the dunal system and is the area least able to tolerate any disturbance or development (Peach, 2003). Dune vegetation is highly vulnerable to trampling and vehicular damage. Research has demonstrated that dune vegetation can be killed by fewer than 50 passes (human foot traffic) in a growing season (Trowell, 1987). Loss of vegetation results in deterioration of the dune as sands are blown from the denuded dune section, resulting in deepening of the trail and eventual sloughing of sand from the sides of the trail. As a greater area is exposed to wind erosion, a blowout may occur resulting in the loss of sand inland from the beach/dune system. This inland migration of sand often results in substantial maintenance costs to the municipality and its residents as it drifts onto roads, covers lawns and gardens, enters houses and clogs storm drains (Peach, 2003). Blowouts also breach the dune’s natural shoreline protection capability. Storm waves moving into and through such breaches can result in much greater erosion than would be the case if an intact dune system was in place. Sand dunes provide natural shoreline protection during periods of high lake levels. They differ from their constructed counterparts (i.e. revetments and retaining walls) in that they work in tandem with the beach itself to maintain a dynamic equilibrium of shoreline protection and beach replenishment along the shoreline. Conventional shore protection is generally ineffective since these structures are eventually overwhelmed by beach processes without constant and costly maintenance (Kor, 1997). Using an estimate of $2000/m to replace dunes with conventional shore protection (Peach, 2003), present dunes along the Wasaga Beach shoreline (assuming 90% of the 14 km shoreline supports foredunes) provides more than $25 million in shoreline protection services. Dune aesthetics, which are important to tourism, and the ecological value of dunes which is important to naturalists and educators (Peach, 2003) also add to the economic services associated with the beach/dune systems. Appropriate planning mechanisms are required to protect these values.

4.0 Wasaga Beach Shoreline Ecological Inventory Shoreline beach and dune communities are the dominant natural features along the Town of Wasaga Beach shoreline. This report focuses on these communities. A provincially rare Great Lakes Coastal Marsh community is present along the shoreline at the west boundary of the Town (Figure 3). This marsh community is described in detail in The Town of Wasaga Beach Natural Heritage System – Background Review and Landscape Model (NVCA, 2005). Coastal vegetation is dynamic. Simpler plant communities on the beach itself (forbs and grasses) give way to more complex vegetation communities on the foredune (shrubs, forbs and grasses) and forested communities on hinddunes that lie landward of the foredunes. Within the Town of Wasaga Beach, the full sequence of dynamic beach communities is rare due to shoreline development. Hinddune communities, in particular, are limited to discrete sites along the shoreline. Near the shoreline, beach and foredune vegetation must be able to tolerate strong winds, sandblasting, temperature extremes and occasional inundation by water (Peach, 2003). Vegetation on the foredunes must also be adapted to extreme heat (up to 60 C in summer),


Figure 3: Vegetation Communities on the Wasaga Beach Shoreline


drought conditions and nutrient-deficient soils (Peach, 2003). Vegetation capable of withstanding such harsh conditions are often less capable of competing with other plants under more ideal growth conditions. As a result, a rare assemblage of plant species is typically associated with foredune habitats on the Great Lakes, including Wasaga Beach. To better document the presence and health of beach, foredune and hinddune communities along the Wasaga Beach shoreline, NVCA staff inspected the shoreline from late summer to mid fall 2004. The study area extended from 71st Street to Stoney Point at the northeast boundary of the Town of Wasaga Beach. The shoreline area was cruised by mountain bike and on foot with a focus on identifying key indicator species associated these communities. It was not the intent of this survey to fully document all vascular plant species along the shoreline and a more thorough investigation would doubtlessly lead to further botanical findings. A general description of shoreline vegetation is provided below. Mapping of vegetation communities is provided in Table 1 with fuller descriptions of vegetation communities and dominant flora provided in Appendix A. Quality of vegetation communities was subjectively ranked as high, moderate or low based on the following visual characteristics: High Dominated by range of habitat-appropriate native species. Disturbance limited to

local access trails to beach. Moderate Habitat-appropriate native species but greater presence of non-native species and

increased levels of disturbance (multiple/wide trails). Partial raking of beach areas.

Low Remnant patches of native/non-native species present. High levels of disturbance

(major access areas). Significant (but not complete) raking of beach areas.


Table 1: Town of Wasaga Beach Shoreline Survey - 71st Street to Stoney Point. Fall 2004 Beach Section Shallow

Marsh Foredune Hinddune Dominant Species (see Appendix A for acronyms)

M (Shallow Marsh), FD (Foredune), HD (Hinddune) 71st St to 70th St H - - FESARUN, POPSPP, SALSPP, EQUVARI, EUPPERF, EUPMACU, EUTGRAM,

SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, SOLOHIO, LYTSALI 70th St to 68th St H - M/H M = PHRAUST, SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, SALSPP

HD = SYMLAEV, FRAPENS, BETPAPY, MAISTEL, SHECANA, THUOCCI, PINSYLV, POPSPP, JUNCOMMU

68th St to 67th St H - M M = AGRGIGA, SALSPP, EQUVARI, SYMLAEV, EUTGRAM, SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, VERHAST, PHRAUST HD = SYMLAEV, ACERUBR, FRAPENS, BETPAPY, MAISTEL, FRAVIRG, SHECANA, PRUVIRG, THUOCCI

67th St to 63rd St H - - M = AGRGIGA, SALSPP, EQUVARI, SYMLAEV, EUTGRAM, SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, VERHAST, PHRAUST

63rd St to 61st St H M 62nd St M = SCIPUNG, EUTGRAM, EUPPERF, JUNBALT, PHRAUST, EQUVARI, AGAPAUP, SPICERN FD = ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, SYMLAEV, POPSPP, LATJAPO, PRUPUMI HD = SCHSCOP, POPSPP, JUNCOMM, MAISTEL, ARTCAMP, THUOCCI, FRAPENNS, ARCUVAU, ELYCAN

61st St to 60th St M H - M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, EUTGRAM, EQUVARI FD = ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, SYMLAEV, POPSPP, LATJAPO, PRUPUMI

60th St to 56th St M H 60th St M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, EUTGRAM, EQUVARI FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, POTFRUT, PRUPUMI, SALCORD, SCHSCOP, SYMLAEV HD = POPSPP, FRAPENN, JUNCOMM, SHECANA, MAISTEL

56th St to 52nd St M M 56th/52nd M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT FD = ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, POTFRUT, PRUPUMI, SALCORD HD = SAPOFFI, MAISTEL, ARTCAMP, THUOCCI, FRAPENN, POPSPP, PINSTRO, PINRESI, SALCORD, PANVIRG


52nd St to 50th St M H E of 52nd M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, EUTGRAM

FD = POTFRUT, PRUPUMI, SYMLAEV, ELYCANA, ARTCAMP, AMMBREV, SALCORD HD = THUOCCI, POPSPP, FRAPENN, SHECANA, JUNCOMM, SCHSCOP, PANVIRG

50th St to 47th St (Beach 6) - M - FD = POACOMP, ARTCAMP, PRUPUMI 47th St to 43rd St L M 46th St M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, EUTGRAM

FD = ELYCANA, ARTCAMP, PRUPUMI, SALCORD, AMMBREV, SYMLAEV HD = SYMLAEV, RHURADI, POACOMP, SOLHISP, PRUPUMI, SOLCANA, JUNCOMM, MAISTEL, PINRESI, THUOCCI, LARLARI, ULMPUMI, PICGLAU

43rd St to 41st St L H M M = ARTCAMP, SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, ELYCANA, PHRAUST, OENPARV, ASCSYRI, EUTGRAM, XANSTRU, POPSPP, SALSPP, EQUVARI, PHAARUN FD = AMMBREV, POPSPP HD = PINSTRO, FRAPENN, THUOCCI, SOLHISP, ARCUVAU, POASPP, DACGLOM, DAUCARO, AMBARTE, PHLPRAT, BROINER

41st St to 37th St M M - M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, ELYCANA, ARTCAMP, EUTGRAM, SALSPP, SYMLAEV, SALCORD, PHRAUST FD = PRUPUMI, POPTREM, ARTCAMP, POTFRUT, SALCORD, AMMBREV

Beach 5 - M - FD = SYMLAEV, ARTCAMP, POAPRAT, ELYCANA, AMMBREV, SORNUTA 30th St to 28th St - - - 28th St to Beach 4 - M - FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, SYMLAEV Beach 4 - L - FD = ARTCAMP, ELYCANA Beach 4 to 23rd St L M - M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT

FD = ARTCAMP, SYMLAEV, AMMBREV, PRUPUMI 23rd St to Beach 3 L M - M = SCIPUNG, JUNBALT

FD = ARTCAMP, ASCSYRI Beach 3 - L - FD = AGRREPE, XANSTRU, ARTCAMP, AMMBREV, AMBARTE, CHEALBU 19th St to 18th St - - - 18th St to 16th St L M - M = JUNBALT, SCIPUNG, ARTCAMP

FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, LATJAPO, PRUPUMI, SYMLAEV 16th St to Beach 2 - L - FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP Beach 2 - M M FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, POPSPP, SALSPP, FRAPENN

BD = POPSPP, ELYCANA, MAISTEL, SYMLAEV, SYRVULG, ROSBLAN, AMMBREV, ACENEGU, ASCSYRI, PRUPUMI, SOLHISP, RHURADI, VITRIPA, PICGLAU, PINSYLV

Beach Strip - - -


Beach 1 (Boardwalk) - M - FD = PRUPUMI, SALCORD, AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, POPSPP Beach 1 (Boardwalk to East End of Parking Area)

- - -

Beach 1 Parking Area to Nott. River

H H M M = SALCORD, JUNBALT, SYMLAEV, EUTGRAM, ARTCAMP, POPSPP, XANSTRU, SALKALI, ELYCANA, TUSFARF, POTANSE FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, PRUPUMI HD = POPSPP, AMMBREV, SYMLAEV

Nott. River to John Street M H - M = XANSTRU, SCIPUNG, JUNBALT, SALCORD FD = AMMBREV, LATJAPO, ARTCAMP, PANVIRG, ELYCANA, SALCORD, POPSPP

John Street to Albert Street L L FD = FD = PANVIRG, ELYCANA, PRUPUMI, AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, SYMLAEV HD = PINSYLV, THUOCCI, PANVIRG, SCHSCOP, POTFRUT, SHECANA

Albert Street to Mary Street - M - FD = PANVIRG, ELYCANA, PRUPUMI, AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, SYMLAEV Mary Street to Eastdale - M-H - FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, LATJAPO, SALCORD, PRUPUMI, ELYCANA,

SYMLAEV, JUNBALT Eastdale to Sandy Lane M-H M M M = SCIPUNG, SYMLAEV, JUNBALT, SALLUCI, PHRAUST, SALCORD

FD = AMMBREV, ARTCAMP, SALCORD HD = SALCORD, SYMLAEV, ELYCANA, SCHSCOP, VICCRAC, ARTCAMP, PANVIRG, POPSPP

Sandy Lane to Allenwood Beach

- H M FD = AMMBREV, PRUPUMI, ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, LATJAPO, SALCORD HD = SCHSCOP, ARTCAMP, ELYCANA, SALCORD, LATJAPO, POPDELT

Allenwood Beach (east) to Tributary

- - -

Tributary to Stoney Point H H M-H M = POTANSE, JUNBALT, LYTSALI, EUTGRAM, BIDCERN, PHRAUST, SCIPUNG, XANSTRU FD = PRUPUMI, ARTCAMP, SCHSCOP, AMMBREV, SYMLAEV, SALCORD, LATJAPO HD = JUNCOMM, POPSPP, PINSTRO, MAISTEL, ELYCANA, SHECANA, SCHSCOP, PANVIRG, SYMALBU, SOLHISP, JUNHORI


4.1 Shallow Marsh (Beach) Relatively low lake levels in recent years have provided an opportunity for vegetation to colonize the area between the foredune and water’s edge. However, this colonization conflicts with recreational use on the beach. As a result, many beach sections are partially or completely cleared of vegetation by mechanical raking. WBPP staff partake in raking operations along key beach access points. Shoreline residents may also rake beach sections as regulated through permit approval from the Park Superintendent. Where vegetation has been allowed to colonize, shallow marsh communities have developed. Some of the best examples of beach shallow marsh communities are found west of Beach 6. Three-square (Scirpus pungens) and Baltic rush (Juncus balticus) are typically dominant with grass-leaved goldenrod (Euthamia graminifolia), variegated horsetail (Equisetum variegatum), common reed (Phragmites australis) and bur marigold (Bidens cernua) also common. The area between 63rd Street and 61st Street is particularly undisturbed and provides habitat for species such as nodding ladies’tresses (Spiranthes cernua) and gerardia (Agalinis paupercula) that were not observed elsewhere within the study area. Similarly, Ohio goldenrod (Solidago ohioensis), a species often associated with endemic Great Lakes coastal marshes, was observed only between 71st Street and 70th Street within the study area. Beach areas from Beach 6 to Beach 1 are generally heavily raked (12-30 times/year; J.Jackson, pers.comm.) and, at best, support narrow, low quality shallow marsh habitats. Three-square and Baltic rush tend to persist in these disturbed environments. The spit between the east end of the parking area on Beach 1 to the mouth of the Nottawasaga River supports a high quality shallow marsh habitat. Reflecting a slightly higher beach profile than the west shoreline, dominant species include a mix of wet meadow and foredune species including sand dune willow (Salix cordata), Baltic rush, smooth aster (Symphyotrichum laevis), grass-leaved goldenrod, wormwood (Artemisia campestris), cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium), Canada wild-rye (Elymus canadensis) and silverweed (Potentilla anserina). Northeast of the Nottawasaga River, a patchwork of moderate to healthy shallow marsh habitats lie between areas of manicured beach. The area from Stoney Point to the northeast limit of Allenwood Beach is of relatively high quality and is characterized by three-square, silverweed, purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), grass-leaved goldenrod, bur marigold, common reed and cocklebur.

4.2 Foredune Similar to beach communities, foredune communities are more intact and less disturbed at the west and northeast ends of the Wasaga Beach shoreline (Figures 4 and 5). However, foredunes remain at least somewhat intact (though often quite disturbed) over most of the study area with the exception of occasional sections between Beach 5 and Beach 1 where the foredunes have been excavated or replaced with retaining walls. Distinct foredunes begin at 63rd Street and extend to the northeast boundary of the Town. Sagewort wormwood is omnipresent throughout all foredune areas. Higher quality foredune


Figure 4: Vegetation on Front of Foredune

Figure 5: Vegetation on Back of Foredune


areas generally have a high diversity of native dune specialists and species with dune affinities such as marram grass, Canada wild-rye, smooth aster, sand dune willow, beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus), sand cherry (Prunus pumila), shrubby cinquefoil (Potentilla fruticosa), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium).

4.3 Hinddune Hinddune communities consist of scattered remnants along the Wasaga Beach shoreline (Figure 6). Although some remnants are relatively healthy with a large component of native species, most are relatively disturbed with a high percentage of non-native tree and ground cover species. Intact hinddune communities show similar structure and species composition along the entire Wasaga Beach shoreline. Mixed forests consist of green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), white cedar (Thuja occidentalis), white birch (Betula papyrifera), poplar (Populus spp.) and white pine (Pinus strobus). Understorey vegetation consists of common juniper (Juniperus communis), buffaloberry (Shepherdia canadensis), poison ivy (Rhus radicans) and chokecherry (Prunus virginiana). Ground cover in forest glades consists of a mix of dominant foredune flora as well as hairy goldenrod (Solidago hispida), starry false solomon’s seal (Maianthemum stellatum) and bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi). The regionally rare prostrate juniper (Juniperus horizontalis) was observed in a healthy hinddune remnant northeast of the Nottawasaga River.

4.4 Significant Vegetation Communities Vegetation communities along the shoreline were classified to Vegetation Type using the Ecological Land Classification (ELC) protocol (Lee et al., 1999). This protocol has been developed to provide for the consistent description, identification, classification and mapping of ecological land units in southern Ontario. Although shoreline communities did not always fully match vegetation types defined in the protocol, an attempt was made to fit communities in the most appropriate type category. Shallow marshes along the shoreline are best described as Three-square Mineral Shallow Marsh (MAS2-6). This community type intergrades with Red-top Mineral Meadow Marsh (MAM2-3) at the west end of the study area and with drier Sand Cherry Shrub Dune (SDS1-1) at Beach 1. MAS2-6 is provincially ranked as S4 – common and apparently secure in Ontario. Foredune areas consist of a mix of open sand dune and shrub sand dune areas with significant intergrading between these two vegetation types. Open sand dune areas are best described as Little Bluestem-Switchgrass-Beachgrass Open Dune (SDO1-1) with marram grass (beachgrass), wormwood and Canada wild-rye typically dominant. Shrub sand dune areas are best described as Sand Cherry Shrub Dune Type (SDS1-1). Sand cherry is typically co-dominant with shrubby cinquefoil and/or sand dune willow. Both foredune vegetation community types are provincially ranked as S2 – very rare in Ontario and often susceptible to extirpation (NHIC website). From a global perspective, SDO1-1 has not been ranked due to insufficient information. SDS1-1 has been ranked as G2Q suggesting that this community is imperiled globally because of extreme rarity; however, there is some uncertainty regarding its status. The Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (2000) states that all provincially rare vegetation communities should be considered significant as defined under the


Figure 6: Hinddune Vegetation


Provincial Policy Statement (MMAH, 2005). The Provincial Policy Statement (MMAH, 2005) states that “development and site alteration shall not be permitted in significant wildlife habitat unless it has been demonstrated that there will be no negative impacts on the natural features or their ecological functions”. Hinddune areas are generally small (less than the ELC minimum 0.5 ha minimum) and variable in character. Some sites have a strong complement of native species while other sites are more disturbed and support a number of non-native tree, shrub and ground cover species. Canopy closure similarly ranges from relatively open (and supporting a number of foredune species) to closed. Hinddune communities are best characterized as Dry-Fresh White Cedar Mixed Forest Ecosites (FOM4) which are provincially ranked as S5 – common and demonstrably secure in Ontario.

4.5 Significant Vegetation Species Significant vegetation species were determined through a review of global, provincial and regional ranking (Table 2). Although several rare species were documented during the survey, no threatened or endangered vascular plant species were observed along the shoreline. Rare species within the shallow marsh, foredune and hinddune communities are documented below. The provincially rare (rank uncertain) and regionally rare blue-leaf willow (Salix myricoides) was tentatively identified at one location within the shallow marsh and may also be present elsewhere within the shallow marsh and foredune communities. This species is associated with shoreline dune systems and is often found with sand dune willow (Bruce-Grey Plant Committee, undated) which is common within foredune and drier portions of shallow marsh along the Wasaga Beach shoreline. Sand dune willow itself is considered regionally rare within Simcoe County. Marram grass is common within foredune communities. It is considered provincially rare although it is relatively common along the Simcoe County shoreline of Georgian Bay. Little bluestem is present in foredune and hinddune habitats along the shoreline. Hairy goldenrod is often found in association with little bluestem in open hinddune areas. Both species are generally considered common; however, each species has a subspecies/variety component which may be considered very rare or rare from a provincial perspective. Dune little bluestem (S. scoparium ssp littorale) has been tentatively ranked as S2? (NHIC website) which suggests that this subspecies is very rare in Ontario. Although further botanical documentation is required, it is reasonable to infer that this subspecies may be present within dune environments along the Wasaga Beach shoreline. Similarly, Lake Huron hairy goldenrod (S. hispida var. huronensis) has been tentatively ranked as S3? (NHIC website) suggesting that this variety is provincially rare. Although further botanical documentation is required, specimens observed along the shoreline have relatively hairless stems associated with this variety which has been documented along sand dunes on Lake Huron proper. It is reasonable to infer that this variety may also be present in similar habitats along the Georgian Bay shoreline. Prostrate juniper (Juniper horizontalis), considered regionally rare, was observed in a relatively large hinddune community near the northern border of the study area.


4.6 Significant Wildlife Species In Spring 2005, a pair of endangered piping plovers began nesting preparations along the spit at the mouth of the Nottawasaga River. This species requires undisturbed shoreline dune habitats for nesting and rearing and had not been observed along the Wasaga Beach shoreline since the late 1980s. The spit east of the Beach 1 parking lots represents the largest intact area of shoreline beach/dunes along the Town shoreline. Efforts by Wasaga Beach Provincial Park to maintain this area in its natural state and minimize human impacts have provided suitable nesting opportunities for the piping plover. Hopefully, this habitat area will support a small breeding population of piping plover and assist in provincial and national efforts to protect this endangered species.

5.0 Shoreline Impacts

5.1 Pedestrian Impacts Trampling is evident along the length of Wasaga Beach. Residential/commercial properties backing onto the shoreline have access trails running from the house/rental units down to the beach. Generally, these consist of a single trail passing through the foredune to the shoreline. Often, these access trails are relatively narrow and stable and do not overtly impact the healthy dune communities on either side of the trail. Impacts of trampling are most evident at major beach access points such as the Beach Area parking lots. WBPP staff are working on a pilot project to minimize trampling at these high traffic locations (Section 6).

5.2 Recreational Vehicle Impacts ATVs, dirt bikes and dune buggies can potentially cause significant impacts on foredune and backdune habitats along the Wasaga Beach shoreline (Figures 7 and 8). These recreational vehicles are heavy and rip through sensitive dune vegetation and loose sands resulting in vegetation loss and associated foredune instability. Unlike snowmobiles, which generally use the beach itself for passage and would cross the foredune area during its least sensitive period (winter with frozen ground and protective snow cover), ATVs are more likely to be entering the foredunes during the spring and fall months when crowds and park policing are at a minimum. Although only local impacts have been observed to date, the growing popularity of this activity may result in greater impacts in the future.

5.3 Beach Maintenance Beach maintenance activities in front of all numbered WBPP beaches include weekly to bi-weekly raking of the mechanical area between the foredune and water’s edge during the summer months for risk management, cleanliness and aesthetic purposes (M. Shoreman, pers.comm.; Figures 9 and 10). Organic deposits that occasional move onshore are also removed from the beach. Mechanical raking may result in artificial drying of the sand and increased shoreward movement of sand; however this is likely minor during the relatively calm summer months and negligible compared to larger movements of sand during the remainder of the year (Kor, 1997). Mechanical raking does inhibit the natural regeneration of beach meadow/marsh vegetation that colonizes the beach area during periods of low lake levels; however, affected vegetation


Figure 7: ATV Impact on Dune Vegetation Figure 8: ATV Impact on Sand Dune Figure 9: Areas With and Without Mechanical Raking Figure 10: Mechanical Raking Along Beach Activities


communities are relatively common compared to the provincially rare foredune communities and are less sensitive to disturbance. Indeed, raking appears to encourage the growth of keystone species in this community.

5.4 Development Impacts Older cottage and resort developments along the shoreline are setback from foredunes and have generally respected the foredune areas leaving them relatively untouched except for discrete trails from the buildings to the beach. However, new shoreline home construction along Wasaga Beach has adversely affected foredune areas. Some homes are built on top of the foredunes and the foredunes are often removed to provide better shoreline access/sightlines. Instead of low maintenance backyard gardens leading to the foredune, these properties are characterized by retaining walls and irrigated, manicured lawns (Figure 11). The provincial Planning Act, implemented through Provincial Policy Statement (PPS; Province of Ontario, 1997) restricts development in areas defined as “hazardous lands adjacent to the shorelines of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System”. More specifically, Section 3.1.2 states that development and site alteration will not be permitted within defined portion of the dynamic beach. Dynamic beaches are shaped and re-shaped on a range of timescales that extend from either hours or days to years and decades in response to changing wave, wind and water level conditions and to changes in the rate of sediment supply to a particular stretch of shoreline (Province of Ontario, 2001). The dynamic beach hazard limit is the combined flooding hazard limit (100-year flood level plus and allowance for wave uprush and other water related hazards), plus the dynamic beach allowance of 30 m on the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River system (Province of Ontario, 2001). Figure 12 provides a conceptual depiction of the hazard limit. As part of hazard identification and management, consideration should be given to whether potential development will affect the ecology of the area, create new hazards or aggravate existing hazards (Province of Ontario, 2001). Specifically, planning authorities have a responsibility to evaluate a site’s biological or environmental sensitivities and consider how potential development will affect these values including dune ecology (Province of Ontario, 2001). Integrated shoreline management and planning, based on an ecosystem approach, is considered to be the best way to management shoreline hazards. As part of hazard identification and management, consideration should be given to whether potential development will affect the ecology of the area, create new hazards or aggravate existing hazards (Province of Ontario, 2001). Specifically, planning authorities have a responsibility to evaluate a site’s biological or environmental sensitivities and consider how potential development will affect these values including dune ecology (Province of Ontario, 2001). Integrated shoreline management and planning, based on an ecosystem approach, is considered to be the best way to management shoreline hazards.


Figure 11: Shoreline Homes With Retaining Walls and Manicured Lawns.

Figure 12: Conceptual Depiction of Dynamic Beach Hazard Limit


The NVCA’s permitting requirements under the Conservation Authorities Act state that development should be prohibited below the 178m contour (100 year flood level). Development should also be excluded from a 15m buffer shoreward of this elevation to account for wave uprush and other water related hazards that are associated with this dynamic system. In addition, a permit is required for any development within a wetland area.

6.0 Restoration and Stewardship Actions WBPP has initiated signage and restoration programs to assist in foredune protection and enhancement. These programs are described below. Interpretive signage is an important component of public education along the Wasaga Beach shoreline. WBPP erected 12 interpretive signs along Beaches 1, 2 and 3 in 2004 and several additional signs are proposed in 2005 (Figure 13). These signs describe the formation and function of the foredunes and the rarity of associated vegetation communities as well as their sensitivity. Annual monitoring of signs is proposed to assess vandalism and provide recommendations for future signage. At the Beach Area 4 access point, WBPP are using a combination of raked beach detritus, fencing and boardwalks to construct formal pathways from the parking areas to the beach (Figures 14 and 15). The purpose of these formal pathways is to direct foot traffic to these formal, protected pathways and reduce impacts on the remainder of the foredune area. Over time, it is anticipated that this area will naturally rehabilitate and be colonized by native sand dune flora thereby restabilizing this foredune area. It is anticipated that the reintroduction of natural beach processes will improve the aesthetic environment and significantly reduce maintenance costs along the park shoreline (Kor, 1997). WBPP has partnered with local schools and groups such as Collingwood Collegiate Institute, Birchview Dunes Public School and the Wasaga Beach Prime Time Club to restore foredune areas. This work has included installation of snow fencing to rebuild foredunes through natural sand deposition and the planting of marram grass which will stabilize these dunes over time. The success of these initiatives can be observed at restoration sites at Beach 1 and Beach 2.

7.0 Conclusion and Recommendations Beach and dune processes are an important component of shoreline heritage (social, economic and natural) and protection along the shores of Wasaga Beach. Recognition of these processes and functions has recently been brought to the fore through stewardship initiatives such as those undertaken by the Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation. Municipalities such as the Town of Saugeen Shores have incorporated foredune protection policies within their Official Plan and Zoning By-laws The Town of Wasaga Beach, its residents and Wasaga Beach Provincial Park have a shared responsibility and opportunity to balance recreational and development needs with the maintenance and enhancement of natural foredune areas along the shoreline. .


Figure 14: Beach Fencing

Figure 13: Public Education Signage Figure 15: Formal Boardwalk


In doing so, there is an opportunity to reap benefits in terms of shoreline and natural heritage protection as well as lower municipal, resident and park costs associated with maintenance removal of sand from streets and properties. Education and stewardship activities initiated by WBPP should be expanded, possibly with support from the Town. WBPP have noted that public perception of the foredune area is an important issue (Jackson, pers.comm). Through education, permanent and seasonal residents can be better informed of the important functions of foredunes and may become more interested in stewardship activities along the shoreline. There must be buy-in from all stakeholder groups if restoration activities are to succeed over the long term. Development along the shoreline should respect provincial policy and Conservation Authorities Act regulations regarding hazardous lands adjacent to the shorelines of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River System which protect the foredune area as part of the dynamic beach. An ecosystem approach to shoreline management is essential. The Generic Regulation currently in preparation at the NVCA will delineate the dynamic beach as part of the regulated shoreline area along the Town of Wasaga Beach shoreline. One of the most effective means of protecting the shoreline dune systems is through public acquisition and ownership or through the use of restrictive convenants/conservation easements for conservation purposes. The dedication and/or purchase of these areas by a public agency for conservation purposes should be encouraged. The following recommendations are offered to protect and enhance shoreline dune systems along the Wasaga Beach shoreline:

• Possible partnership between the Town and the Park should be explored to develop a

shoreline owner and/or tourist pamphlet and to erect educational signage at beach access points (i.e. at park beach entrances and along Shoreline Drive);

• Possible partnership between the Town and the Park should be explored to initiate a stewardship award program for shoreline property owners that have maintained the health and integrity of their shoreline area;

• Successful projects (i.e. formal trails, interpretive signage, stewardship plantings) should be promoted and exported along the entire beach shoreline;

• Park natural heritage staff should continue to ensure that all WBPP staff are aware of foredune processes and ecology and that park maintenance other active beach activities (competitions, festivals) do not adversely affect these areas;

• The Town, WBPP and NVCA should require protection of intact foredune areas for redevelopment. A site alteration bylaw should be developed to ensure that structures are setback from the foredune area;

• The use of conservation easements, dedication and/or purchase of foredune areas by a public agency for conservation purposes should be encouraged; and,

• NVCA planning staff should provide the Town with draft dynamic beach protection policies in support of the Generic Regulation. These policies could then be written into the Town Official Plan to further strengthen protection of these features.


8.0 References The Bruce-Grey Plant Committee. Undated. Rare & Endangered Species of Grey & Bruce Counties. Owen Sound Field Naturalists. 144 pp. Kor, P.S.G. 1997. An Earth Science Inventory and Evaluation of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park.

131 pp. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Lee, H.T., W.D. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig and S. McMurray. 1998.

Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation and Its Application. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Southcentral Science Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch. SCSS Field Guide FG-02.

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. 2005. Provincial Policy Statement. 37 pp. Ministry of Natural Resources. 2000. Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide. 151 pp +

Appendices. Peach, G.H. 2003. Beach & Dune Guidance Manual for Saugeen Shores. Prepared by The Lake

Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation. 34 pp. Province of Ontario. 1997. Provincial Policy Statement. 18 pp. Province of Ontario. 2001. Understanding Natural Hazards. Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River

System and large Inland Lakes, Rivers and Stream Systems and Hazardous Sites. 40 pp. Riley, J.L. 1989. Distribution and Status of the Vascular Plants of Central Region. 110 pp.

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Trowell, A. 1987. “Too Many Feet are Spoiling the Dunes” in Canadian Geographic, April/May

pp. 38-45

Appendix A

Vascular Plant Species List. Wasaga Beach Shoreline.

Fall 2004.

Acronym Scientific Name Common Name CC SRank RRank ACENEGU Acer negundo Manitoba Maple 0 S5 P ACERUBR Acer rubrum Red Maple 4 S5 P AGAPAUP Agalinis paupercula Gerardia 8 S4S5 P AGRGIGA Agrostis gigantean Redtop * AMBARTE Ambrosia artemisifolia Common Ragweed 0 S5 P AMMBREV Ammophila breviligulata Marram grass 10 S3 P ARCUVAU Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Bearberry 8 S5 P ARTCAMP Artemisia campestris Wormwood 8 S4S5 P ASCSYRI Asclepias syriaca Common Milkweed 0 S5 P BETPAPY Betula papyrifera White Birch 2 S5 P BIDCERN Bidens cernua Bur-marigold 2 S5 P BROINER Bromus inermis Smooth Brome

Grass *

CHEALBU Chenopodium album Lamb’s Quarters * DACGLOM Dactylis glomerata Orchard Grass * DAUCARO Daucus carota Wild Carrot * ELYCANA Elymus canadensis Canada Wild-rye 8 S5 P ELYREPE Elymus repens Quack Grass * EQUHYEM Equisetum hyemale Scouring-rush 2 S5 P EQUVARI Equisetum variegatum Variegated

Scouring-rush 5 S5 P

EUPMACU Eupatorium maculatum Joe-pye Weed 3 S5 P EUPPERF Eupatorium perfoliatum Boneset 2 S5 P EUTGRAM Euthamia graminifolia Grass-leaved

Goldenrod 2 S5 P

FESPRAT Festuca arundinacea Tall Fescue * FRAPENN Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green Ash 3 S5 P FRAVIRG Fragaria virginiana Wild Strawberry 2 S5 P JUNBALT Juncus balticus Baltic Rush 5 S5 P JUNCOMM Juniperus communis Common Juniper 4 S5 P JUNHORI Juniperus horizontalis Prostrate Juniper 10 S5 R4 LARLARI Larix laricina Tamarack 7 S5 P LATJAPO Lathyrus japonicus Beach Pea 9 S4 P LOLPERE Lolium perenne Perennial Rye-grass * LYTSALI Lythrum salicaria Purple Loosestrife * MAISTELL Maianthemum stellatum Starry False

Solomon'’ Seal 6 S5 P

OENPARV Oenothera parviflora Evening Primrose 1 S5 P PANVIRG Panicum virgatum Switchgrass 6 S4 P PHAARUN Phalaris arundinacea Reed Canary Grass 0 S5 P PHLPRAT Phleum pretense Timothy * PHRAUST Phragmites australis Common Reed 0 S5 P PICGLAU Picea glauca White Spruce 6 S5 P PINRESI Pinus resinosa Red Pine 8 S5 P PINSTRO Pinus strobes White Pine 4 S5 P PINSYLV Pinus sylvestrus Scots Pine * POACOMP Poa compressa Canada Blue Grass 0 S5 P POAPRAT Poa pratensis Kentucky Blue

Grass 0 S5 P

POASPP Poa spp. Blue Grass Family POPBALS Populus balsamifera Balsam Poplar 4 S5 P POPDELT Populus deltoids Cottonwood 4 S5 P

Acronym Scientific Name Common Name CC SRank RRank POPSPP Populus spp. Poplar Family POPTREM Populus tremuloides Trembling Aspen 2 S5 P POTANSE Potentilla anserine Silverweed 5 S5 P POTFRUT Potentilla fruticosa Shrubby Cinquefoil 9 S5 P PRUPUMI Prunus pumila Sand Cherry 10 S4? P PRUVIRG Prunus virginiana Chokecherry 2 S5 P RHURADI Rhus radicans Poison Ivy 0 S5 P ROSBLAN Rosa blanda Wild Rose 3 S5 P SALCORD Salix cordata Sand-dune Willow 9 S4S5 R6 SALKALI Salsola kali Russian Thistle * SALLUCI Salix lucida Shining Willow 5 S5 P SALMYRI Salix myricoides* Blue-leaf Willow 10 G4/S2? R6 SALSPP Salix spp. Willow Family SAPOFFI Saponaria officinalis Bouncing Bet * SCHSCOP Schizachyrium

scoparium Little Bluestem 7 S4/S2? P

SCIPUNG Scirpus pungens Three-square 6 S5 P SHECANA Shepherdia canadensis Buffaloberry 7 S5 P SOLCANA Solidago canadensis Canada Goldenrod 1 S5 P SOLHISP Solidago hispida Hairy Goldenrod 7 S5/S3? P SOLOHIO Solidago ohioensis Ohio Goldenrod 10 S4 P SORNUTA Sorghastrum nutans Indian Grass 8 S4 P SPICERN Spiranthes cernua Nodding Ladies’-

tresses 5 S5 P

SYMALBU Symphoricarpos albus Snowberry 7 S4S5 P SYMLAEV Symphyotrichum laeve Smooth Aster 7 S5 P SYRVULG Syringa vulgaris Lilac * THUOCCI Thuja occidentalis White Cedar 4 S5 P TUSFARF Tussilago farfara Sweet Coltsfoot * ULMPUMI Ulmus pumila Siberian Elm * VERHAST Verbena hastate Blue Vervain 4 S5 P VICCRAC Vicia cracca Bird Vetch * VITRIPA Vitis riparia Riverbank Grape 0 S5 P XANSTRU Xanthium strumarium Cocklebur 2 S5 P * tentative identification CC Conservatism Coefficient – reflects species fidelity to a particular habitat type on a scale from 0 to 10

(Middlesex, 2003). A plant with a high conservatism score is considered extremely conservative, requiring highly specialized and undisturbed conditions. Plants with low scores can tolerate a variety of ecological and disturbance conditions. Non-native species are not scored and are denoted with a “*”.

SRank The NHIC assigns subnational ranks (SRANKS) for species and vegetation communities in Ontario (NHIC

website). These SRANKS parallel the global ranks (GRANKS), and range from S1 (extremely rare in Ontario, generally 5 or fewer locations) to S5 (demonstrably secure in Ontario). Non-native species are not ranked.

S2 Very rare in Ontario; usually between 5 and 20 occurrences in the province or with many individuals in fewer occurrences; often susceptible to extirpation. S3 Rare to uncommon in Ontario; usually between 20 and 100 occurrences in the province;

may have fewer occurrences, but with a large number of individuals in some populations; may be susceptible to large-scale disturbances. Most species with an S3 rank are assigned to the watch list, unless they have a relatively high global rank.

(notes continued on following page)

S4 Common and apparently secure in Ontario; usually with more than 100 occurrences in the province. S5 Very common and demonstrably secure in Ontario. S? Not ranked yet, or if following a ranking, Rank Uncertain (e.g. S3?). S? species have not had a rank assigned. Rrank Regional status based on Riley, 1989.

P = present in Simcoe County but not considered rare. R = rare with number referring to number of occurrences within Simcoe County.

Documents

Town of Wasaga Beach Beach and Dune Conservation and … and Dune Conservatio… · a role to play in the protection of the beach/dune system. Beach and Dune Formation Prevailing