Evaluation of TRCA’s Natural Heritage System Strategy and wildlife populations in the Toronto AOC

Session: 05. - Within Reach: The Path to De-listing Toronto and Region as a Great Lakes Area of Concern

Namrata Shrestha, Toronto and Region Conservation, [email protected]
Sue Hayes, Toronto and Region Conservation, [email protected]
Lyndsay Cartwright, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, [email protected]

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to collect and analyze species and natural system data to contribute to the status assessment of wildlife habitat and populations in the Toronto Region AOC. Habitat analyses included examining natural cover, natural heritage systems (NHS) and policy protection throughout the AOC. Wildlife population analyses included the use of TRCA inventory and long-term monitoring data. Natural cover analysis showed minimal changes in habitat quantity although the distribution of change was not uniform.  Policy support was generally good and TRCA terrestrial NHS and municipal NHS had a high degree of overlap; however, there were TRCA NHS areas that were excluded from municipal NHS and vice versa. Wildlife population analysis included data on bird and frog communities and found that populations within the AOC were similar to reference sites within the Duffins Creek watershed. Results suggest that even though the extent of natural cover appears to be stable, NHS policy is generally good and wildlife populations are similar to those at reference sites, we continue to see habitat losses especially in the urbanizing zone, weaker policies in certain regions, and wildlife populations that are strongly, and negatively, affected by urbanization. 

1. Keyword
habitats

2. Keyword
environmental policy

3. Keyword
populations