CVC’s Watershed Plan
We’re developing a new watershed plan. A watershed plan is a tool that helps us understand the past and plan for the future health of the watershed.
We’ve completed the first phase of the Watershed Plan, called the Characterization Report. It tells the story of the health of the Credit River Watershed and how it has evolved from the 1950s to today.
Sneak Peak: Characterization Report Findings
What have we learned in the first phase of the Watershed Plan? Here’s a sneak peak of some of our findings.
Nature is Resilient
When given the opportunity, our forests, wetlands, streams and the wildlife that call these habitats home can bounce back! For example, American crow populations have rebounded from West Nile virus.
Land Uses Influence Water Quality and Quantity
Chloride concentrations in streams and groundwater have been increasing due to road salt use and urbanization. High chloride concentrations can change the taste of drinking water, damage household plumbing, and harm aquatic plants and animals.
Climate Change Impacts Ecosystems Health
Every season is now warmer than it used to be, but winter is warming faster. Populations of invasive pests that kill trees, like emerald ash borer and beech scale, thrive in warmer winter conditions.
Biodiversity at Risk
Habitat loss, climate change and invasive species, including pests and disease are threatening biodiversity. Populations of sensitive and common species are declining, such as the brook trout and northern flicker.
Upcoming Watershed Plan Open House Events
We’re sharing the results of the first phase of the Watershed Plan at a series of open houses. We invite you to join us at one of the following events where you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and provide your input.
Virtual Open House
Thursday October 26, 7 to 8 p.m.
There’s still time to register for this event up until it starts tonight.
In-Person Open Houses
Wednesday November 8, 6 to 8 p.m., Alton Legion Hall, 1267 Queen Street West, Alton
Saturday November 18, 10 a.m. to noon, Susan Fennell Sportsplex, 500 Ray Lawson Boulevard (Multipurpose Room 2), Brampton
You can also enter for a chance to win one of three $75 CVC Parks gift cards at each event. Full contest rules available at cvc.ca/ContestRules.
Can’t make it to an event? There are many ways to get involved in the Watershed Plan. Take our online survey or visit our interactive map to share your thoughts. Visit our Watershed Plan page to learn more.
By: Shanice Badior, Coordinator, Watershed Plans and Analytics