Ecosystem Based Planning

ENVP 3V23

*click below to download a graphic used to reinforce the idea of an Ecosystem approach to planning*

*Click here to see graphic*

Local Landscape Project

(Jason Dilamarter and Chris Fitzgerald)

The Fonthill Kame

Section I: Brief Introduction to the Kame and our Report

The Fonthill Kame is located in the centre of the town of Pelham. The town was created on January 1, 1970 when Pelham Township joined with the village of Fonthill. The Ministry of Natural Resources (1980) define a Kame as: thedeposition of poorly sorted sand and gravel deposits resulting from a glacial retreat. The deposits consolidate into a variety of spatial features including single mounds, linear ridges and complex groups of landforms. The Fonthill Kame is characterised by a large amount of high quality crushed aggregate suitable for construction purposes. In addition to its status as a source of an aggregate resource the Kame is also noted as one of the most effective areas for the production of tender fruit above the Niagara escapement (Fraser, 1985). The combination of appropriate topographic features, and a favourable microclimate allows for the current utilization of 39 per cent of its total land mass for tender fruit cultivation (Fraser, 198). Continued withdrawal of large amounts of sand and gravel from the Kame has resulted in the alteration of the overall topographic consistency. This presents a problem because the microclimate is dependant on a stable topography (Shaw, 1988). This report will examine many features relevant to the Kame and its surrounding area. It is our ambition to provide information that proves useful in determining how the competing land uses effect the ecological integrity. It is also hoped that the information in this report is presented in a way that is consistent to an ecosystem approach to planning as described by Gray et. al., (1995).

Section 2: Specific Location Factors

Latitude and Longitude: 43°10'-45°15'N, 79°03"-81°40'W

Length: 5.5 Kilometres (east to west)

Width: 3.2 Kilometres (north to south)

Surface Area: 1000 Hectares

Elevation: 180-255 metres; more detail shown on diagram.2 in Section.3

Map Reference:

Shaw, T. 1988. Feasibility Study for Assessing and Modelling Microclimatic Conditions on The Fonthill Kame. Brock University, pg. 5.

*This map is being used with the permission of professor Tony Shaw*

*Click here to see graphic*

Section 3: Significant Features

Subsection I: Ecological Features

Core Area:

The Fonthill Kame is a 1000 hectare moraine and is situated at the head of the last provincially significant cold water stream in Niagara.

Biota:

The Fonthill Kame is rich in Biotic characteristics. The description below gives credence to groups dedicated to their protection.

i) Plant Species: Specific portions of the Fonthill Kame possess unique and important biological qualities. 220.6 acres of the 419.1 which make up an area known as the Fonthill Sandhill Valleys, has been described as "one of the largest forested and valley terrains in the Shorthills landscape unit." (World Wildlife Carolinian study program, 1983). The area is representative of a number of Carolinian species. Specifically, the Kame is home to over 500 plant species representative of bogs, valleys, and meadows.

ii) Animal Species: The habitat within the Kame is one suited for White-tailed deer, opossum, Red Fox, and Meadow Voles. It also serves as a feeding and sanctuary area for wood Ducks, Green-winged Teals, Mallard and Black Ducks, Green Herons, and Great Blue Herons.

iii) Rare/Threatened Species: Rare wildlife species include: Spotted Salamander, Red-backed Salamander, Pickerel Frog, Carolina Wren, Yellow Warbler, Pileated Woodpecker, and the Spotted Turtle. Also prevalent are rare plant species including: Ginseng, Broak-beech Fern, Flowering Dogwood, Eastern Hemlock, Black Walnut, Pignut Hickory, Shagbark Hickory, Swamp White Oak, Sassafras, Tulip Tree (Region's largest), Cucumber tree, and Showy Ladies.

Geomorphology:

I) Sand and Gravel

Approximately 12500-23000 years ago, during the Wisconsinan time, Pelham was covered many times by the continental ice sheet. The last of these left the Niagara Peninsula with a deposit of sand and gravel known as Halton Till: a low quality aggregate resource (MNR, 1980). In addition to leaving aggregate deposits, the melting glacier also helped in the formation of a number of glacial lakes. As the glacier continued its retreat, melt water flowed down across the ice and into these newly created lakes. This left a large deposit of sand and gravel into a delta known as the Fonthill Kame (MNR, 1980). As seen in the diagram below, the Kame is consistent of three different aggregate levels: Glaciolacustrine sand silt and clay; lower deltaic unit of fine sands, and the upper deltaic unit of sand and gravel. The upper deltaic consists of the highest quality aggregate. Because the rest of the Niagara Region does not have such a high aggregate potential, the Fonthill Kame is the single most important deposit in the area.

The following diagram is being used with the permission of Professor Tony Shaw:

*Click here to see graphic*

Aggregate extraction practices are concentrated in the Northwestern corner of the Kame and in the upper deltaic unit. As of 1980, the extraction rate averaged over1.2 million tons per year. This trend is being threatened due to the continued expansion of urban development. The Ministry of Natural Resources has identified three areas for potential resource protection. Area one, located in the western edge, represents about 270 acres of unexploited land and about 47 tons of resource. The area's soil consistency is suitable for the production of tender fruit. Area two consists of over 1290 acres of upper deltaic sands and gravel and is located on two southern ridges. This area has been characterised by a large amount of urban development which, by implication, reduces the availability of the resource. The third area has an acreage of 355. It is located along the ridge that runs from the main deposit west to Metler and Cream Street. Again, this area consists largely of the upper deltaic. Physical constraints on the area reduces its potential to 290 acres. In total these three areas represent about 2030 acres of land and 95 tons of resource. According to Shaw (1988) if these three areas were used to their potential, they could provide for all the region's concrete needs well into the future.

Official plan designation is important for the preservation and restoration of this land resource. However, it is important to note that strategies must be formulated to reduce the 1.2 million ton annual extraction rate. This is because the longevity of other land uses (i.e. tender fruit farming) is hinged on a consistent topography and microclimate (Shaw, 1988). As of yet there has been no official recognition of the Fonthill Kame in the regional official plan.

II) Agricultural Soils of the Fonthill Kame

We chose to separate the discussion of agricultural soils from the above aggregate discussion to further outline the Kame's contribution to the tender fruit industry. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food (1989) the general soil conditions of the Fonthill Kame are as follows: The soils have a mean thickness of 24 centimetres and a mean organic matter of 2.1 percent. They are characterised by a reddish hue and generally have a Ph level ranging from 5.9 to 7.3. The soils have great variability in their texture and always have at least a 12% gravel consistency. The soil is well suited for fruit production specifically cherries, peaches, and other hardier varieties. Only basic management techniques are required including irrigation and fertilization practices.

The quality of the soil for agricultural purposes further enhances the need for their protection and rehabilitation. Extraction practises must be held to a sustainable rate to ensure the farming future in the area.

In an attempt to ensure the state of the Geomorphology of the Fonthill Kame, ourgroup feels that the incorporation of a resource extraction model is necessary. The utilization of the Stewardship model (Greer, 1996) for the aggregate resources of the Kame would be a beneficial exercise. Equal consideration must be made for both the extraction and farming activities ongoing in the Kame.

Significant Topographic effects on the microclimate of the Kame:

Prior to discussing the climate of the Kame, we must mention the various topographic characteristics that effect them. As eluded to earlier, there exists a relationship between the topographic features of the Kame and its Microclimatic characteristics. Shaw (1989) shows this relationship by describing three effects: Effects of elevation; Effects of slope; and the effects of terrain.

I) Effects of elevation

The diagram on the next page illustrates the elevation of the Fonthill Kame. As seen in the diagram, the highest point in the Kame is around 255 metres. Shaw (1989) points out that this is relatively modest. As a result the Kame is not subject to the extreme radiation levels that areas of higher elevations are. Therefore the Kame experiences relatively stable temperature levels. However, the elevation is enough to lower ambient air temperatures up to 1.5 degrees of that of the surrounding areas (Shaw, 1989). Wind speeds are also effected by the topography. As a result the movement of heat and moisture is often accelerated from the base of the ridge to the top. The wind also aids in the ventilation of air pollutants within the Kame. In addition, these winds level out the temperature differences experienced between night and day times (Shaw, 1989). The result of this is a relatively stable climatic environment complimentary to the production of tender fruit.

II) Effects of Slope

Shaw points out that slope has effects on sunlight hours, radiation totals, soil temperatures, precipitation amounts, snow cover, evaporation rates and windiness. Varying slope gradients throughout the Kame produce areas of differing agricultural potential. (see climate section)

III) Effects of Terrain

The minimal temperatures of the lower elevation locations throughout the Kame are influenced predominately by the terrain. Pockets of concave surfaces are often characterised by significantly lower temperatures than that of convex ones (Shaw, 1989). Thus in valley areas within the Kame, these pockets can act as cool air drainage ducts, thus warming the surface area of the surrounding land (Shaw, 1989).

The following image is being used with the permission of Professor Tony Shaw:

*Click here to see graphic*

Climate

The topographical effects, mentioned above, help determine the microclimate of various locations throughout the Kame. Varying degrees of elevation result in a multitude of microclimates. Shaw (1989) identifies three distinct microclimatic areas within the Kame. These are:

1. Southwest area characterised by modest slopes and subjective to air currants. The farming of hardy fruits is dominant in this area.

2. The top of the Kame characterised by lower average mean temperatures but having the potential for greater warmth during clear days.

3. The north and north-eastern steep slopes, characterised by cooler day temperatures and warmer night temperatures. This area is well suited for the production of tender fruit.

The higher elevated areas of the Fonthill Kame have eight climatical characteristics which Kruger (1954) describes as being necessary for the production of tender fruit. These are: 1) sufficient winter chill; 2)absence of extremely low temperatures; 3)absence of frosts after blossoming; 4) long growing season; 5) cool, dry summers; 6) little hail; 7) relatively moderate winds; 8) 30-40 inches of rain. These factors gives an agricultural advantage to certain areas within the Fonthill Kame. This can be supported with reference to Shaw's study (1989) where it was determined that Ridgeville (a location on the Kame with an elevation of 236 metres) had a climate consistent to the eight criterion defined above.

For a detailed description of the diverse climate existing within the Kame, please refer to the following reference:

Shaw, T., 1989. Feasibility Study for Assessing and Modelling Microclimatic Conditions on the Fonthill Kame *unpublished but available at the Brock library at call # Doc CA3 ON NI60 88 F27

Subsection 2: Historical Significance

Land use History

The evolving land uses of the Kame can be best examined through the use of a diagram.

This chart obtained from Ministry of Natural Resources (1985)

Implications of Chart:

This chart is a replication of one prepared in 1985 by the Ministry of Natural Resources (Fraser, 1985). As described briefly in section one, the Fonthill Kame is suited for two distinctively different land uses; aggregate extraction and tender fruit farming. The combination of the Kames geomorphology and its unusually warm climate (discussed in detail in future sections) has earned it a governmental designation as a specialty crop area (Fraser, 1985). Recent Expansion of two major aggregate producers have threatened the integrity of these fruit farms. These producers have been responsible for the annual extraction of over 500,000 tonnes of road building and construction aggregates since 1955. Fraser (1985) states thataggregate extraction is the largest contributor to the removal of agricultural lands and that these lands, once altered, can never be restored to their initial quality. As seen on the chart, the amount of land used for the production of cherries and peaches has been continually declining since 1955. This has particularly been the case in the upper slopes of the Kame. Recently this process has slowed. This is due to the fact that initiatives have begun to restore this land use practise. However, because of economic reasons, most of these newly revitalised farms are located on the lower slopes of the Kame. Aggregate extraction is currently a more profitable business and, as a result, has taken over the rich topography of the upper slopes. Tender fruit is seen as a secondary use and has been displaced from these areas of extraction.

The chart also indicates a massive reduction in the amount of general agricultural lands. Specifically corn, wheat, grain, and hay fields have all experienced massive declines since the 1950's. Most of these lands have been transformed into urban/residential uses. This process has been supported by the predictions made by the Planning and Development Department of the Regional Municipality of Niagara (May, 1989). They predict that the total population of Pelham will increase by 2200 between 1996 and the year 2011. With this prediction comes support for new policies aimed at converting general agricultural lands into residential dwellings. In addition to dwellings, this prediction necessitates the increase in recreational lands as well as commercial properties. All of these trends are supported in the chart.

To support an ecosystem based approach, planners should realize the significant trends implied in this chart. The conversion of agricultural lands into aggregate extraction sites as well as urban structures has been occurring at an alarming rate. This process, if left uncontrolled, has the potential to wipe out the tender fruit industry on the Fonthill Kame. Recently there has been an attempt to preserve these lands and protect the fruit farming future. These policies, however, are effected by the economic realities and thus are limited to the lower slopes of the Kame. There must be a renewed commitment amongst local policy makers to preserve this vital commodity.

Subsection 3: Cultural Aspects

Education:

The Fonthill Kame is considered an area of Natural Scientific interest by the provincial government. It earned this delegation due to the relic beach and bar deposits and lake terraces which offer excellent opportunity for geological study.Research has also been conducted, by Professor Tony Shaw (as well as a number of contributors), on the unique relationship between the Kame's climatology and topography. The Kame's contribution to the educational field has been experienced in elementary, secondary, and post secondary institutions throughout the Niagara Region and beyond.

Section 4: Land Tenure

I) Ownership:

The Fonthill Kame has a number of groups and individuals who share ownership. Included in this list are: aggregate extracting companies (Two of the largest yielding and estimated 500,000 tons annually), private residential, private commercial, farmers, and all levels of government. Due to the size of the Kame (1000 hectares) it would be impossible to list all of the existing owners. However, it is important to communicate the diversity of the groups who share an interest in the area.

II) Official Plan Designation:

Only a small portion of the north facing slope of the Fonthill Kame has been recognised in the Niagara Escarpment plan as an escarpment natural area. No designations have been made in either the regional or local plans.

III) Public Access permitted: yes on public lands

IV) Zoning:

The Kame has a wide variety of zoning by-law descriptions. These are agricultural, residential, industrial, commercial, and recreational.

V) Management:

The Kame has a number of private land managers. Pubic lands are managed by the appropriate level of government. In addition to government and private land owners, there are a few groups who have had influence in managing areas of the Kame. The most evident is the Ontario Heritage foundation, in conjunction with the Carolinian Canada project. This group has initiated a land stewardship program in the Fonthill Sandhill valley. This project has been successful in protecting nearly 40% of the land in this area of the Kame. This type of management strategy is consistent to an ecosystem approach due to its reliance on partnerships and intrinsic value. Citizen involvement, as well as participation from a number of user groups such as bird watches and other outdoor enthusiasts, has led to the issuance of numerous stewardship awards from this group (Jennings, 1995).

Section 5: Connectivity

Linkages:

I) The Niagara Escarpment: The following map shows relative location of the Fonthill Kame with respect to the Niagara Escarpment (shown in green).

*Click here to see graphic* *Fk indicates relative location of the Fonthill Kame

The Niagara Escarpment is a Greenway that stretches from Tobermory (at its Northern limit), to its southern limit of Niagara Falls. Its total land mass is roughly 207,240 hectares. The topographic features of the escarpment date back some 450 million years (McKibbon, 1987). The portion of the escarpment that runs closest to the Kame is consistent of a deciduous forest. Flora in the area includes: 58 types of bryophyte, 49 species of fern and 37 types of orchid. The area between Guelph and Niagara Falls is of particular importance due to the rarity of many biotic characteristics. Such rarities are listed in the next section (Short Hills Park). These all necessitate adequate conservation strategies.

Perhaps the most unique aspect of the Niagara escarpment is that it serves as one of the largest corridors in Canada. This corridor is used by both human and non-human users. Our group feels that protection of such a resource is vital.

Significance adjacent Lands

I) Short Hills Provincial Park

At the Northeastern border of the Fonthill Kame lies the Short Hills Provincial Park. This provincial park is comprised of diverse glacially-formed hills and numerous stream valleys. The park is set in the Twelve Mile creek re-entrant valley which has received the status of a provincially significant earth science feature. The twelve mile tributary, which runs through St. John's Conservation area, is part of the only provincially significant cold water stream fishery in the region. Short Hills park has achieved special recognition in numerous policy plans. It is recognised as a natural area in the Niagara Escarpment Plan. The park is also considered an environmentally sensitive area in the Regional Niagara Policy Plan. Both Thorold and Pelham official plans also assign special recognition to the Park. A portion of is considered a fragile and unique biological Area consisting of virgin deciduous forest and the tallest tulip tree in the region. Other biotic features of the park include both rare plant and animal species. Plant biota include Shagbark Hickory, Pignut Hickory, Flowering Dogwood. Sycamore, Eastern Hemlock, Showy Ladies, Slipper, and Deer Berry. Rare wildlife in the park include Yellow Warbler, Pileated Woodpecker, and Spotted turtle. Also present in the area are riparian species including Bobolinks, Brown Thrasher, Ruffed Grouse, Pheasants and Hawks. White-tailed Deer, Coyotes, Red Fox, and Meadow Voles are also part of the Habitat.

Due to the proximity of the Park to the Fonthill Kame, a number of considerations must be made during planning. Special consideration must be made during aggregate extraction activities to ensure the protection of the biotic characteristics of the park. Other land uses, such as urban development, and recreation, must be made in a manner that they compliment the unique features of Short Hills Provincial Park.

Section 6: Bibliography

Bacon, J. 1987. Public Involvement in the Management of Niagara's Natural Resources. Brock University.

Coombs, A.,E. 1930. History of the Niagara Peninsula and the New Welland Canal. Toronto: Historical Publishers Association.

Fraser, J. 1985. Land-Use Trend Analysis 1955-85: Fonthill Kame Aggregate Resource Area, Town of Pelham. Toronto: Ministry of Natural Resources.

Janes, G. (Managing Editor).. 1988. The Niagara Conservation Strategy. The Preservation of Agricultural Lands Society.

Jennings, T. 1995. Report to the Ontario Heritage Foundation for Landowner Contact Performed by the Peninsula Field Naturalists September 1994 to March 31, 1995. The Carolinian Canada Landowner Contact Program.

Kingston, M. 1989. The Soils of the Regional Municipality of Niagara: Volume 1. Guelph: Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

Kingston, M. 1989. The Soils of the Regional Municipality of Niagara: Volume 2. Guelph: Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

McKibbon, G. 1986. Protection the Niagara Escarpment. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation.

Ontario Geological Survey. 1980. Aggregate Resources Inventory of Town of Pelham/Regional Municipality of Niagara/Southern Ontario. Queens Park: Ministry of Natural Resources

Regional Municipality of Niagara. 1985. Natural Areas of the Niagara Region: A Preliminary Survey. Thorold: Planning and Development Department.

Regional Municipality of Niagara. 1989. Policy Plan Review: Population and Housing Forecasts for Regional Niagara and the Municipalities. Thorold: Planning and Development Department.

Regional Municipality of Niagara. 1989. Policy Plan Review: Where Next? A Look to the Future. Thorold: Planning and Development Department.

Regional Municipality of Niagara. 1976. Review of the Regional Urban Areas Boundaries. Thorold: Planning and Development Department.

Shaw, T. 1988. Feasibility Study for Assessing and Modelling Microclimatic Conditions on The Fonthill Kame. Brock University.

Electronic sources:

Canada's Biosphere Reserves. Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve. Internet WWW page Click here to visit page (current at March 1, 1996)

McIntyre, P. Implementing an ecosystem approach: Challenges for science, policy and institutions. Internet Gopher site Click here to visit site (version current at February 22, 1996).

Comments and feedback

Please direct general comments as well as any additional information concerning either the Fonthill Kame or resource management to the following e-mail address:

Internet Address: cindee@vaxxine.com