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INFORMATION PROVIDED IN RESPONSE
TO SCC/SIRRA REQUEST OF AUGUST 10, 2016
Item 4 Environmental Assessment and Species At Risk
We note with some concern the lack of reference about your environmental assessment plans and
specifically how you intend to identify species at risk (federally and provincially listed species).
part of Coastal Dry Douglas Fir forest and the vall
likely federally listed species at risk.
we assume has been conducted, and to see what mitigation measures you have planned to p
species, and the valley wetlands and ephemeral streams, where pools were still present in late July.
3.5.4 Biological Environment
3.5.4.1 Vegetation
The subject property is located in the moist subzone of the Coastal Douglas Fir
(CDFmm), which characterizes much of the east coast of Vancouver Island and the adjacent Gulf Islands.
As can be concluded from the climatic data presented in Section 3.5.2.1 above, the CDFmm subzone is
characterized by warm dry summers
snowfall.
Detailed site reconnaissance was conducted in 2004 and 2005 and again on May 16,
11, 2016. In addition, a review of existing literature relating to the area and o
was carried out. On the basis of these
undergone only minor modification over the 150 years since the initial European settlement of the area,
primarily as a result of timber harvesting. As well, there have been only relatively few introductions of
non-native plant species on this property
frequently visited coastal bluff and woodlands areas to the south
Road, which traverses the Reserve close to its northern edge
species were also noted in and adjacent to the wetland areas in the southern part of the Reserve
SPECIFIC ITEMS RAISED
(Continued)
valley is known to be habitat for provincially listed and
As a first step, it would be helpful to see the resource inventory that
Biogeoclimatic Zone
and mild and only moderately wet winters with relatively little
of available satellite imagery
investigations it was determined that the subject property has
t property. These are mostly within the more vulnerable
and immediately adjacent to East Point
edge, although a number of introduced plant
IR7 is
ey protect listed
June 10 and July 7-
f and/or the more
Reserve.
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A list of plant species encountered during the site visits is provided as Appendix B. This list is by no
means comprehensive owing both to the large size and to the relative topographical complexity of the
property but every effort has been made to ensure that it is as complete as possible in terms of the
Canadian Species at Risk Act (SARA) and Provincial Conservation Data Centre listings of rare and/or
endangered species.
As noted above, portions of IR#7 have been logged at least once, reportedly most recently in the 1940s
or 1950s. While on some parts of the property, there are a few mature trees approaching 250 years old,
most of the area is characterized by a presently maturing second growth forest cover ranging in age
from 60 to 100 years. It is conjectured that the noted old growth trees may have escaped cutting during
a period when forest harvesting generally involved `highgrading` of the forest, although it is possible
that some may be survivors of one or more forest fire episodes in pre-settlement times. The property is
traversed by the traces of several old logging roads, skid trails and landings, while evidence of past
forest fires is widespread.
Owing to the relatively large size of the property and its significant variability in aspect, soil depth and
texture, moisture conditions, and elevation, it is characterized by a high level of biodiversity. As a
consequence, there may be as many as 16 recognized ecological community types present, often
occurring in isolation but, in some areas, closely complexed with others to form very tight mosaics.
Rather than attempting to map each of these ecological community types individually, it has been found
to be far more practical and meaningful to consider the property as a series of Ecological Landscape
Units (Figure 3), each of which is described in detail below, this classification is derived from and
generally follows that derived by Eis and Craigdallie (1980).
3.5.4.1.1 Rock Outcrops and Bluffs
In general, this Landscape Unit represents a complex of the Cladina-Selaginella (SC) and Fescue-Camas
(FC) ecological community types with, possibly, elements of the Garry Oak-California Brome (QB) type as
well, although no Garry Oak itself was noted on the property These grass and/or lichen dominated bluffs
as isolated entities are found only to a relatively limited extent within IR#7, primarily along the north
shores of Fiddler's Cove and Narvaez Bay and on the small islet immediately offshore, although
elements of this Landscape Unit are also found much more extensively in conjunction with the Ridge
Top Open Forest Unit described below, both along the northern perimeters of Narvaez Bay and Fiddler's
Cove and at the highest elevations on the steep and very rocky terrain along the south side of the major
east-west ridge which bisects the property. Lichen encrusted bedrock outcrops and cliffs are frequent
within this Landscape Unit. Elsewhere, soils are generally very thin and usually very coarse although
they may be somewhat thicker in localized depressions in the underlying bedrock. Slopes vary from
essentially level to precipitous. Conditions are dry to extremely dry
The overstory within this Landscape Unit is, in most areas, essentially non-existent although there may
be scattered specimens of dwarfed and often windblown Arbutus (Arbutus menziesii), Shore Pine (Pinus
contorta) and the occasional Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Garry Oak (Quercus garryana),
although normally found within this vegetation unit, was not found within IR #7.
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In most areas the shrub layer is equally sparse and equally stunted, even where it has not also been
extensively browsed by Coast Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and by the feral goats that infest the island.
Typical shrub species include Tall Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium), Baldhip Rose (Rosa gymnocarpa),
and Ocean Spray (Holodiscus discolor).
As if to make up for the extreme poverty of the tree and shrub layers, this Landscape Unit is often
characterized, except in the driest rock outcrop areas by a considerably wider variety of herb and grass
species, some of them introduced (although now essentially naturalized) species such as the Hairgrasses
(Aira spp.), Hedgehog Dogtail (Cynosurus echinatus), Soft Brome (Bromus mollis) and Sheep Sorrel
(Rumex acetosella) and others native to the Gulf Islands including Alaska Brome (Bromus sitchensis),
Western Fescue (Festuca occidentalis), Sea Blush (Plectritis congesta), and Broad-leaved Stonecrop
(Sedum spathulifolium) among a range of other mostly spring-flowering species, exact species
composition varying constantly over very small areas with micro-variations in soil depth, moisture and
composition. In the drier areas, many, if not most of these herb and grass species will be replaced
primarily by mosses including, in particular, Roadside Rock Moss (Rhacomitrium canescens), Haircap
Moss (Polytrichum piliferum) and an abundance of lichens. Except near the ocean, relatively few
vascular plant species are found in these very dry surroundings although Sheep Sorrel, Blue-eyed Mary
(Collinsia parviflora), Field Chickweed (Cerastium arvense) and Wallace's Selaginella (Selaginella
wallacei) will likely occur here.
Areas characterized by this Landscape Unit appear to be best suited to recreational activities such as
nature viewing and hiking, always provided that the appropriate level of care is taken to minimize
impacts on the often fragile vegetative cover. In this connection, it is important to note that, of all of the
Landscape Units described in this report, Rock Outcrop and Bluff areas are the most likely to be
inhabited by rare and/or endangered species, both plant and animal, as listed in the Species at Risk Act
(SARA) and parallel British Columbia CDC designations.
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FIGURE 7. IR7 Ecological Landscape Units
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3.4.4.1.2 Ridge Top Open Forest/Woodland
Normally contiguous with the Grass-Lichen Bluff Landscape Unit described above and often
complexed with or inter-penetrated by it within IR#7, are considerably larger areas of Open
Forest, in this area dominated by a more or less continuous, although open, overstory of
Douglas Fir and Arbutus with lesser amounts of Shore Pine and, possibly, Garry Oak . Again, this
Landscape Unit is found, with some local variations, at both low elevations near the north
shores of Narvaez Bay and Fiddler's Cove and on the upper, south facing slopes of the ridge
dominating the Reserve. Soils within this Unit are generally thin and coarse with frequent
intrusive rock outcrops and abundant broken rock, and conditions are dry to very dry. Slopes
are generally moderately to very steep and level areas are relatively scarce, especially at the
upper elevations. Ridge Top Open Forests are characterized primarily by the Douglas Fir-
Arbutus (DA) and Douglas Fir-Onion grass (DO) ecological community types, sometimes in
isolation but more frequently complexed with each other and/or with elements of the Cladina-
Selaginella (SC), Arbutus-Hairy Manzanita (AM) and, very occasionally, especially near
tidewater, the Garry Oak-California Brome (GB) and/or Garry Oak-Ocean Spray (GO) ecological
community types, although Garry oak itself appears to be absent from this area.
Dominant tree species within the open overstory in this Landscape Unit are Douglas Fir and
Arbutus with lesser amounts of Shore Pine
The open forests and woodlands within this Unit are characterized by a shrub layer that varies
from moderately dense to, especially in those areas dominated by Douglas Fir, virtually nonexistent.
Many of the shrub species found here, such as Ocean Spray and Baldhip Rose, are also
found in the Rock Outcrop and Bluff Landscape Unit. Other shrub species include Snowberry
(Symphoricarpos albus) particularly in conjunction with Garry Oak, Dull Oregon Grape (Berberis
nervosa), Salal (Gaultheria shallon), Trailing Blackberry (Rubus ursinus), and Hairy Honeysuckle
(Lonicera hispidula).
The herbaceous understory within this Landscape Unit is equally variable, a consequence of the
fairly high level of variability in soil depth and moisture. In most areas, however, it is usually
extremely sparse except in openings, where it will take on some of the characteristics and a
number of the spring flowering species of the Rock Outcrop and Bluff Unit described above.
More commonly, it will be dominated by a carpet of mosses and lichens of various species but
always including Goose-necked Moss (Rhytidiadelphus triquetrus) along with scattered
specimens of Alaska Oniongrass (Melica subulata), Purple Peavine (Lathyrus nevadensis) and
Sanicle (Sanicula crassicaulis). An abundance of coarse woody debris is common.
Open forests in this Landscape Unit are also well suited to recreational purposes. Their
resistance to trampling and other forms of physical disturbance is much greater than the more
open areas described above and, in general, the likelihood of their harbouring rare or
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endangered plant species is considerably less although stands of this nature do potentially
provide appropriate habitat for the rare and SARA listed Sharp-tailed Snake (Contia tenuis),
although this species has not been discovered on Saturna Island to date. Their potential utility
for other forms of use is minimal although in other, more populous areas within the southern
Gulf Islands, such as Pender Island. and even in the area immediately east of IR 7, sites
characterized by this Landscape Unit are favoured for residential development.
3.5.4.1.3 Upper Slope Forests
Upper slope forests, primarily characterized by fairly open stands of Douglas Fir, now almost
entirely second growth, 60-100 years in age, are found extensively in moderately dry locations
on both sides of the dividing ridge on IR #7. Soils here, although moderately coarse sandy loams
primarily derived from colluvium, are deeper that in the two Landscape Units described above
and conditions are somewhat less dry. Terrain within this unit is usually gently to steeply
sloping and rock outcrops are rare.
Upper Slope Forests, perhaps the most commonly found Landscape Unit within IR#7 and,
probably, on the entire island, are composed primarily of the Douglas Fir-Salal (DS) ecological
community type although they may often contain elements of the Douglas Fir-Onion Grass (DO)
and Douglas Fir-Arbutus (DA) community types at higher elevations. At their lower limits, they
tend to intergrade with the Douglas Fir-Oregon Beaked Moss (RK) and, more frequently, the
Grand Fir-Dull Oregon Grape (DG) ecological community types, especially on richer and/or
moister sites.
As indicated above, the overstory, which is almost entirely second growth on IR#7, is
dominated by Douglas Fir and to a substantially lesser degree, Grand Fir (Abies grandis). Also
present, sometimes in significant quantities, are Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) and Broadleafed
Maple (Acer macrophyllum). Lesser quantities of the successional Red Alder (Alnus rubra)
may be present in younger stands.
Unlike forests both higher and lower on the slope, Upper Slope Forest Landscape Unit forests
are almost invariably characterized by a dense shrub layer almost entirely dominated by Salal,
although Dull Oregon Grape will also usually be present together with lesser quantities of
Ocean Spray, Baldhip Rose, Trailing Blackberry and Red Huckleberry (Vaccinium parvifolium).
The density of this shrub layer decreases significantly both up and down slope in those areas
transitional between the Landscape Unit discussed in this section and those discussed above
and below.
In contrast to the normally dense shrub layer within this Landscape Unit, the herb layer is
normally very sparse and often limited to scattered specimens of Star Flower (Trientalis
latifolia) and Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquilinum). More abundant are mosses including, in
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particular, Goose Necked Moss, Oregon Beaked Moss (Kindbergia oregana) and Step Moss
(Hylocomium splendens).
Owing to its often dense shrub layer and relatively monotonous appearance, this Landscape
Unit is of little use or interest for most kinds of recreation although, in areas close to good view
or vantage points, its relative shelter and the good drainage provided by its moderately coarse
soils together with its very low potential for the occurrence of rare or endangered plant and
animal species might render it suitable for the development of campsites. On Saturna Island, as
in most other portions of southeastern Vancouver Island and the adjacent Gulf Islands, its
primary use in the past has been for timber production although tree growth is relatively slow
as compared to that in richer forest areas at lower elevations. Much of the area characterized
by this Unit on Saturna Island, including two former Provincial Ecological Reserves, has now
been incorporated into the adjacent Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.
3.4.4.1.4 Mid and Lower Slope Forests
The Mid and Lower Slope forests within IR#7 lie generally immediately downslope from the
drier and more open forests described immediately above, especially in the northern portion of
IR#7, although elements of this Landscape Unit are also found intermingled with those of other
units where soil texture and moisture conditions permit. Together with the forests in the Upper
Slope Forest Landscape Unit described above, Mid and Lower Slope Forests account for most of
the forested land both in the Reserve and, more generally, on Saturna Island, where large
expanses of it have now been incorporated into the recently established Gulf Islands Federal
Park.
In general, forest stands within this Unit, although almost entirely second growth, are
somewhat more dense that those described above, a result of the somewhat deeper, more
finely textured, and generally richer till and colluvium based soils found on the lower slopes of
the ridge bisecting the property. Terrain is variable but is generally flatter than that found
higher on the ridge and conditions are generally moister.
Most of the forest within this Unit has been logged on at least one occasion over the past
century and the present stands are mostly 60-100 years old although some older trees,
presumably rejected during harvesting, do exist. The Unit, which occurs fairly extensively within
the reserve, very closely conforms to the Douglas Fir-Dull Oregon Grape (DG) ecological
community type although, in drier areas it may contain elements of the Douglas Fir-Salal (DS)
type and at the lowest elevations and in shallow depressions and ravines, it has displays many
of the characteristics of the Grand Fir-Foamflower (RF) type.
Within this Unit, as it is represented within IR#7, the fairly closed tree layer is largely dominated
by maturing and vigorous Douglas Fir with a significant admixture of Grand Fir and Western Red
Cedar, and the occasional Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla). Broad-leafed Maple is also
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normally abundant along with lesser amounts of Red Alder. Unlike the Upper Slope Forest Unit
described above, however, the shrub layer is normally relatively sparse except for moderate
amounts of Dull Oregon Grape, Salal, and Red Huckleberry and is sometimes virtually nonexistent.
Much more variable and, in some instances, much more abundant on what, in some areas
appears to be bare forest floor covered in needles and small wood debris, is the herb layer.
Where present, this is characterized by fairly abundant Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum) and,
in some drier areas, Vanilla Leaf (Achlys triphylla). Three-leafed Foamflower (Tiarella trifoliata)
is common in moister areas. Mosses at times appear to be wholly absent but, when present are
dominated by Oregon Beaked Moss and Step Moss along with Palm Tree Moss (Leucolepis
menziesii).
In the past, Mid and Lower Slope Forests have provided a valuable timber resource and such
forests, with their relatively good growing conditions for conifers, lend themselves well to the
practice of sustained forestry. On the other hand, recreational potential is fairly low. It should
be noted however, that forests of this type do provide important habitat for wildlife species,
particularly Deer, which will browse in more open areas and retreat to the denser coniferous
forests like these for shelter and protection, and for a number of bird species.
3.4.4.1.5 Bottomlands and Wetland Forests
There are several small and mostly ephemeral streams draining the southern portion of IR #7
into the waters of Fiddler's Cove although none of these streams is fish bearing and some dry
completely during the summer months. These streams all appear to arise from an area of
forested swamp lying toward the southwest quarter of the Reserve or possibly within the
immediately adjacent area of Park Reserve, and traverse a substantial expanse of bottomland
forest en route to the ocean. These forests, especially those in the swamp areas, appear to
contain some of the oldest and largest trees on the property. In all areas, soils are deep and fine
textured loams and silts, possibly derived from till with a substantial admixture of marine clay.
Conditions range from very moist to saturated although areas of open water, do not occur.
The Bottomland Forest Unit along the streams is characterized the Grand Fir-Foamflower (RF)
ecological community type with possibly some elements of the Western Red Cedar-Skunk
Cabbage (RC) type. In the area of Forested Swamp, these give way to the Western Red Cedar-
Slough Sedge (CS) type although areas peripheral to the swamp are also characterized mainly
by the Grand Fir-Foamflower type
Dominant tree species in all parts of this Unit are Western Red Cedar and Broad-leafed Maple,
both often of considerable size, while there are also substantial quantities of Red Alder,
especially in and near the areas of forested swamp. Some Douglas Fir and Grand Fir are also
found along the streams while specimens of Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) are also
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present. Stands are generally closed, especially along the streams, but are far more open in the
wetland areas inland where there is at least one substantial partially open sedge meadow.
The shrub layer is highly variable both in density and in species makeup but, especially along
the streams, includes Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis), Black Currant (Ribes lacustre), and
Nootka rose (Rosa nutkana).
The herb layer, where present, along the streams is dominated by Sword Fern and Foamflower
The open sedge meadow is somewhat more diverse, being largely dominated by Smallflowered
Bulrush (Scirpus microcarpus) with lesser quantities of Slough Sedge (Carex obnupta)
and other sedges growing under a very open canopy of older Red Alder and occasional Red
Cedar. Much of this open swamp area is also characterized by substantial quantities of the
introduced Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) and Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare), so that, while it is
very obviously a wetland area, it has some of the characteristics of a manmade or, at least, man
modified location. This impression is enhanced by the fact that the streams flowing through it
appear at some point to have been channeled as if for agricultural purposes. As, however, there
is no record of any land use of the property other than logging and as the wetland area is far
too large to have been a former landing, this appearance would appear to be entirely
fortuitous.
While the streams traversing this part of IR7 are not fish bearing, it has been stated that
Fiddler's Cove contains important clam beds although this presently appears doubtful.
However, it certainly contains oysters and would be vulnerable to any significant disturbance to
either the streams or to the upstream forested and open swamps. In addition, these moist
forest areas are important for a variety of wildlife species including, in particular, the SARA and
CDC listed Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora), which has been reported in IR#7
It is known that, in the past, substantial use was made of this Landscape Unit by the various
First Nations peoples occupying Saturna Island and other nearby areas. Bark stripped trees have
been recorded in this area (one was noted by the writer on June 10, 2016) and there are traces
of shell middens close to Fiddler's Cove with at least one provincially recorded archaeological
site. It is unclear at this point whether past traditional use also included habitation but that
possibility cannot be discarded at this point.
An IR7 forest resource inventory and evaluation is provided in Appendix A to this report
3.5.4.2. Wildlife
The east coast of Vancouver Island and the adjacent Gulf Islands form a unique ecological region in
Canada. The moderate climate and long growing season support many species of plants and associated
animals. However, intense development pressures throughout the region have resulted in serious
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habitat degradation and fragmentation. On Saturna Island, these trends have, to some extent, been
alleviated by the inclusion of large portions of the island within a large National Park. However, it is also
noted that outdoor recreation can impose its own impacts on both vegetation and wildlife. Saturna
island has also long been infested by feral goats, whose ancestors escaped domestication.
Following a review and evaluation of available sources of IR7 wildlife information (reports, files, maps)
wildlife verification surveys were undertaken on site, with particular emphasis on wildlife sign, tree
cavities, nesting locations, unique habitats, as well as sitings per se. These were conducted throughout
the property over a period of several weeks in the early summer in conjunction with the cruising of
timber and the verification of ecosystems character & extent,
a. Mammals A reported wildlife field survey of this property (Seamount 2003, Voller 2003) produced a
limited list of wildlife species and noted that a substantial number of wildlife trees and suitable habitats
for a wide range of species were present as would be expected for such a large and, above all, variable
property. The presence of a wide range of habitat niches provides the potential for a wide variety of
seral forest dwelling species including larger birds (hawks, owl, eagles) to be in the project area. Both
from existing reports and via the examination of on-site habitats in May, June and July of 2016 it is clear
that portions of IR 7 are used on a regular basis by Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus ssp. columbianus).
Other mammals noted de facto or via sign on the property include Raccoon (Procyon lotor) and River
Otter (Lutra canadensis). Deer Mice (Peromyscus maniculatus), Mink (Mustela vison) and Muskrat
(Ondatra zibethicus), as well as a variety of smaller vole and shrew species can also be expected.
However, no rare and/or endangered mammalian species are expected to occupy or use the property.
The property has also been extensively used by the feral goats which infest the entire island although no
goats were seen during any of the 2016 visits. Suggestions have been made regarding the eradication of
this non-native and highly destructive species but it is unclear as to where the responsibility for this task
would lie.
b. Birds. A variety of bird species – both migratory and resident - have been seen or heard on the
property including, among others, Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Canada Goose (Brenta
canadensis), Common Raven (Corvus corax), Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), American Robin
(Turdus migratorius), Junco (Junco oreganus), Kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon), Chestnut-backed Chickadee
(Poecile rufescens), and Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) as well as an unidentified Hawk and an
unidentified Cormorant, possibly the red-listed Double-Crested Cormorant (Phalocrorax auritus) which is
said to nest on the bluffs at East Point. There are, undoubtedly, many other smaller and less
conspicuous birds using the property on a more or less permanent basis as well but none of these are
likely to be rare or endangered.
Two Bald Eagle nests, one adjacent to Tumbo Channel and the other near Narvaez Bay, have recently
been reported but neither was seen on June 10, 2016. However, an eagle lookout (and possible nest
tree) was noted immediately behind the beach at Fiddler's Cove, as well as an Eagle lookout tree in full
use high on the bluffs overlooking the cove.
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Other reports indicate the presence of the red-listed Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus ssp annatum)
nesting on the bluffs along the southeast margin of IR 7 and suggest the possibility that the property has
the potential for use by Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) and Northern Goshawk
(Accipiter gentilis), although neither of these red-listed species was actually seen on site either in 2003
or in 2016. A Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) was observed overflying Narvaez Bay and fishing on the
beach immediately east of the bay. However, there are no recorded or observed nests for this species
on or near IR#7
As indicated in the discussion regarding vegetation, while many portions of IR#7 have some value as
wildlife habitat, the habitats of highest value will be found either on the bluffs overlooking Narvaez Bay
and Fiddler`s Cove or within the moist forests and forested swamp located in the southern portion of
the property
c. Amphibians and Reptiles A single specimen of the blue-listed Northern Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora)
was noted within an ephemeral wetland area on the lower southern portion of the site during cursory
wildlife surveys of the property (Sea-Mount 2003, Voller 2003). The potential for this species was
confirmed upon the examination of on-site habitats in May, June and July of 2016. In addition, two
specimens of the Pacific Chorus Frog (Pseudacris regilla) were seen and photographed in June of 2016.
While there is no indication of the size of the frog populations in this area, habitat character on the
southern portion of the property, the dependence of frogs on moist to wet environments and the
isolation of Saturna Island from other Gulf Islands, suggests that these populations have existed here for
many years.
As well, although no evidence was found of their presence the habitat provided by the coastal bluffs
within IR7 is well suited to the presence of the red-listed Sharp Tailed Snake (Conta tenuis) which is
known to occupy similar habitats on other Gulf Islands.
3.5.4.3 Fish
There are no fish bearing streams on IR 7. As well, no evidence of clam beds was found in the nearshore
areas of Fiddler’s Cove. The kelp beds offshore from the cove are used by spawning herring (Clupea
harengus). Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) are found in Narvaez Bay at certain times of the year
3.4.5.4 Species/Ecosystems at Risk
An assessment of the potential for this project to affect Species at Risk (both as listed under the Canada
Species at Risk Act (SARA) and as categorized as rare, endangered or threatened by the British Columbia
Conservation Data Centre (BCCDA) is provided as Appendix C to this report. Also discussed in that report
is the occurrence on or adjacent to the subject property of Sensitive Ecosystems as jointly designated by
the Governments of British Columbia and Canada in the “Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory: East Vancouver
Island and Gulf Islands, 1993-1997”.
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Figure 8: Saturna IR7 Key Site Ecological Features
Key Site Ecological Features
Legend
1- Fiddler’s Cove– Beach and Foreshore 6-– Clifftop Trail, and Descending Trail to
Fiddler’s Cove
2- Ephemeral Streams 7-– Eagle Lookout Trees
3 -– Cedar/Alder Wet Meadow 8- Reported Red Legged Frog Occurrence
4- Coastal Bluff 9-– Caves/Rock Depressions
5- Interior Bluff/Cliff 10- Old Cabins Remains
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4.2 Potential Environmental Impacts - Description and Analysis
Identification and selection of Issues scoped for this project are based on analyses of the project team
team’s of the locations, extent and manner of the activities to be undertaken, of the state, structure and
functions of the landscapes and environmental resources characterizing the property.
Environmental Assessments of 4 of the noted aspects of the proposed project are presented below.
A. Project Development and Preparations
A.1 Logging Site Selection
Encroachment on Sensitive Forest Ecosystems, On-site Resources,
and Adjacent Land Use
Possible Impacting Activity/Action: Selection of Forest Cutblocks
Potentially Affected Environmental Elements: Sensitive forest ecosystems, red listed flora and
fauna, wildlife habitats, cultural resources, Fiddler’s Cove shorescape, Tumbo
channel landscapes, intrinsic recreational values, adjacent land-use
expectations.
Impact Analysis: If not carefully defined in accordance with sound environmental management criteria,
the selection of initial cutblocks and those designated for future harvesting within the
planned tree farm has the potential for extensive impact to various of the
environmental features and attributes that characterize IR7. Included among these
are
· the noted woodland and bluff ecosystems,
· the extensive Cedar wetland on the lower portion of the property,
· the backshore beach and upland behind of Fiddler’s Cove,
· the riparian boundaries of the ephemeral streams present on site,
· the cliff side recreational trail and associated features
· identified archeological and cultural heritage resources on site
· the linear block between East Point Road and Tumbo Channel.
As well, the proponents are aware of the potential for visual and social impact to the
neighbouring residents, and to users of East Point Park and East Point Road and
Fiddler’s Road, the need to minimize those to the extent possible.
Impact Significance: Potentially severe re ecosystem disruption, floral and faunal intrusion, loss of
faunal habitat, loss of cultural resources, encroachment and diminution of recreational values
and disruption of area social norms……if not buffered and avoided as prescribed below.
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Environmental Management Prescription: Accordingly, both the initial cutblocks of this
project, and the designated future harvest areas have been identified and
demarcated for this project in a manner which avoids encroachment on each of the
areas listed here (See Figure 3). As an integral aspect of that task, steps have been taken
to buffer the planned logging operations from each of
· The entirety of the coastal and ridgetop woodland and bluff ecosystem and
the cedar wetland areas will be excluded from logging.
· No logging will take place within 50m of the mean high tide line at Fiddler’s
Cove
· No logging will take place within 15 m northward of the of the cliff top trail.
· Riparian exclusion buffers of 5m in width will be set on each side of the
streams and wetlands present on the property.
· Logging will not encroach on identified archeological or cultural features
present on site
· No logging will take place on the linear block between East Point Road and
Tumbo Channel.
· Buffers of 20m in width will be set along Fiddler’s Road. East Point Road and
the western boundary of IR 7 adjacent to the National Park Reserve.
Many of these setbacks will be accompanied by adjacent 20 meter Management
Buffers within which only within which only very few selected older trees will be
harvested, and the careful reduction of forest fuel will be undertaken.
B. Project Operations and Site Maintenance
B.1 On-Site Activities
Habitat Loss From Removal Of Vegetation/Forest Cover
Possible Impacting Activity: Understory Clearing, Falling Yarding
Potentially Affected Environmental Elements: localized flora and habitats, wildlife
Impact Analysis: As a function of the relative youth of the forest, the high edge-to-area ratio, and the
very high variability of the landscape, there is a moderately high level of use made of
portions of the subject property by wildlife and a high capability of those areas in this
regard. Most of the high level habitats have been excluded from logging via the
locations and selection of cutblocks. While there clearly will be some habitat
elimination within the selected cutblocks in the short term, the logging selectivity and
the resultant clearings and forest edges in these areas will provide much improved
habitat, particularly for deer and various avian species
Impact Significance: Positive localized impact
15
Environmental Management Prescription: Throughout Cutblock A , twelve(12) wildlife leave patches’
ranging in approximate size from 0.5 ha to 2.0ha have been identified for retention
based on combinations of observed wildlife trees,, older trees, deciduous tree
presence, and wind firm patterns. As well .the selective cutting of the identifies
cutblocks will be confined to the harvesting of fir, hemlock & cedar, with the
retention of yew, arbutus, maple, alder and white pine to the extent that safety
standards can be maintained. In addition, on the whole property, impacts will be
moderated and optimized by implementing the appropriate management strategies
such as.
o Avoiding disturbance to obvious wildlife trees, raptor nests, etc.
o Locating and culverting access/haul roads appropriately
· Minimizing disturbance to understory vegetation to the extent possible.
· Retaining standing “wildlife” trees
· Retaining pockets of young or unmerchantable trees and associated understory as
refuge areas and seed sources
· Avoiding disturbance of wetlands and seepage areas, especially by yarding and hauling
· Revegetating portions of harvest sites as early as practicable after harvesting
· A protective buffer of 20m in width restricting logging from that area will be placed
around the perimeter of the wetland swamp to safeguard Rana aurora utilizing these
areas
Wildlife Disturbance From Operational Activity
Possible Impacting Activity: Falling/ Yarding /Storage/Loading/Internal Transport.
Potentially Affected Environmental Elements: On site Wildlife, SARA Listed Wildlife
Impact Analysis: No evident wildlife features were encountered within the areas to be logged.
Few deer were observed on those portions of the property. No feral goats were
seen on site. Wildlife disturbance within designated cutblocks will thus be
minimal and commensurate with that noted above for habitat change. This in
turn can be mitigated via application of the operational and restorative
prescriptive measures listed hereunder
Nine (9) faunal species at risk were determined to be either certainly existing (2) or
possibly existing (7) within IR 7 or in the areas immediately adjacent to it (Appendix C -
Species at Risk Analysis).In addition, several bird species in this category (Double
Crested Cormorant, Northern Goshawlk, Great Blue Heron) may occasionally overfly
the selected logging areas but their actual presence on and use of the property is
considered unlikely. The remaining 2 species, notably the Red Legged Frog and the
Anatum subspecies of the Peregrine Falcon, both of which have been recorded on IR
7, are found only in areas of the property which will be reserved from cutting. Any
16
disturbance of these two species will be minimal provided that the appropriate
operational measures are applied.
Impact Significance: Low both locally and from the perspective of regional wildlife populations.
Environmental Management Prescriptions:
o The operators of the intended program will be briefed on the prevailing EC Migratory
Bird Avoidance Guidelines (EC 2016) to ensure that all on-site personal are thoroughly
familiar with their intent and application, and adhere to them as applicable during project
preparations and operations.
o In addition, the noted retention of yew, arbutus, maple, alder and pine within the
identified cutblocks will enhance the conservation and use of wildlife habitats over those
areas of the property.
As well, the following measures will applied throughout this project:
o Avoid disturbance to obvious wildlife trees, raptor nests, etc.
o Locate and culvert access/haul roads appropriately
o Minimize disturbance to understory vegetation to the extent possible.
o Retain standing “wildlife” trees
o Retain pockets of young or unmerchantable trees and associated understory as
refuge areas and seed sources
o Avoid disturbance of wetlands and seepage areas, especially by yarding and hauling
o A protective buffer of 20m in width restricting logging from that area will be placed
adjacent to appropriate reaches of the perimeter of the wetland swamp to safeguard
Rana aurora utilizing these areas
o Revegetate site as early as practicable after harvesting
Fish and Fish Habitat Disruption
Possible Impacting Activity: Falling, Yarding. Hauling
Potentially Affected Environmental Elements: On-site streams; Fiddler’s Cove foreshore and
nearshore fauna
Impact Analysis: Three (3) streams are situated on the property. None are classified as fish bearing. No
discernible clam resource was observed in Fiddler’s Cove. Herring resources in
Fiddler's Cove will not be affected by the activities of this project Any risk to
downstream fish and nearshore marine fauna will be eliminated by implementation of
setbacks and exclusion of logging for 5m on either side of all streams. As well, the
exclusion of logging from the Cedar swamp wetland area, and the setback of 50m
from Fiddler’s Cove will all serve to safeguard these areas.
Impact Significance: Low to Nil given the adoption of strategies noted above re
· Designated setbacks from all streams on site,
· Designated exclusion of the cedar swamp wetland area
17
· Prescribed management of drainage and slope stability.
Environmental Management Prescription: As noted above plus:
· Intercept any salty or contaminated water flow off working sites toward or into Fiddler's
Cove and Narvaez Bay
· Ensure all vehicles and equipment used are leek-free re fuel, lubrication oil or hydraulic
system leaks
· Refuel and service vehicles off site.
********************************
8. SUMMARY OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS
Pertinent commitments to the subject topic are presented below
ENVIRONMENTAL
RESOURCE/
FEATURE
ITEM CONTEXT
Note: References to Wildlife below include
mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians & terrestrial invertebrates.
A. PROJECT DESIGN AND PLANNING
Sensitive Ecosystems
Wildlife Habitat
Wildlife
SARA Species
Recreational Features
Drainage Integrity
Streamcourse integrity
Cutblocks to be harvested will be selected and
configured to exclude ecologically and/ or culturally
sensitive portions of the property from timber
harvesting. Among areas to b excluded from
cutblocks are those containing:
- Cliff and coastal bluff ecosystems
- Wetland ecosystems,
- Sites occupied by red listed flora and
fauna,
- Sensitive wildlife habitats,
- On-site streams
- Fiddler’s Cove shorescape and backshore
- Tumbo Channel shorescape and uplands
below East Point Road,
- The central clifftop trail for the expanse of
the property
- The descending trail to Fiddler’s Cove
Project Site
Planning
Wildlife Habitat
Wildlife
To conserve habitat and amenity values on the
selected cutblocks, all selective timber harvesting
will be confine to Douglas fir, hemlock and cedar ,
with the retention of yew, arbutus, maple, alder and
pine to the extent that safety standards can be
maintained
Project
Operational
Planning
Wildlife Habitat
Wildlife
Within Cutblock A, 12 wildlife leave patches’
ranging in approximate size from 0.5 ha to 2.0 ha
have been identified for retention based on
combinations of observed wildlife trees, older trees,
deciduous tree presence, and wind firm patterns
Project
Operational
Planning
18
C. PROJECT OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
C.1 On-Site Activities
Wildlife Habitats
Stream Integrity
Water Quality
Particular care will be taken in yarding or skidding
logs to road side haulouts that disturbance of
understory vegetation and of trees to be retained
on site is minimized. Use of vehicles in or near
ephemeral watercourses, seepage areas and
pocket wetlands will be avoided.
Timber
Harvesting
Wildlife Habitats
Wildlife
SARA Species
Potential operational impacts to habitats and
wildlife be addressed and mitigated optimized by:
~ Avoiding disturbance to obvious wildlife trees,
raptor nests, etc.
~ Locating and culverting access/haul roads
appropriately
Minimizing disturbance to understory vegetation to
the maximum extent possible.
~ Retaining standing “wildlife” trees
~ Retaining pockets of young and/or
unmerchantable trees and associated understory
as refuge areas and seed sources
~ Avoiding disturbance of wetlands and seepage
areas, especially by yarding and hauling
~ Revegetating portions of harvest sites as early as
practicable after harvesting.
~ Establishing a protective buffer of 20m in width
restricting logging from that area will be placed
adjacent to appropriate reaches of the perimeter of
the wetland swamp to safeguard Rana aurora
utilizing these areas
In addition, the noted retention of yew, arbutus,
maple, alder and pine within the identified cutblocks
will enhance the conservation and use of wildlife
habitats over those areas of the property.
Timber
Harvesting
Avian Wildlife
(Migratory & Resident)
&
Associated Habitats
The operators of the intended program will be
briefed on the prevailing EC Migratory Bird
Avoidance Guidelines (EC 2016) to ensure that all
on-site personal are thoroughly familiar with their
intent and application, and will adhere to them as
applicable during project preparations and
operations.
Timber
Harvesting
19
D. Project Monitoring
Wildlife Habitat
Wildlife
· Designated cutblock areas and selected
road alignments will be monitored for
wildlife sign, presence and use during the
course of site preparations and timber
harvesting.
Site
Preparations
and Timber
Harvesting
20
APPENDIX B . PLANT SPECIES ON IR7
Plant Species Occurring on Subject Property
The following list of plant species occurring on or immediately adjacent to the subject property as
described above was compiled during visits to the property through the years 2003-2016. While the list
is fairly comprehensive, it should not be considered to be in any way exhaustive owing to the relatively
late date of the visits, when many spring flowering species on rocky bluffs were no longer visible and the
necessarily limited time spent on site. Introduced species are indicated by (I). Of the 112 plant species
identified, only 21 are non-native introductions to North America, a quite low percentage.
Trees
Abies grandis (Grand Fir)
Acer macrophyllum (Broad-leafed Maple)
Alnus rubra (Red Alder)
Arbutus menziesii (Arbutus)
Pinus contorta (Shore Pine)
Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas Fir)
Quercus garryana (Garry Oak)
Thuja plicata (Western Red Cedar)
Tsuga heterophylla (Western Hemlock)
Shrubs
Amelanchier alnifolia (Saskatoon)
Berberis aquifolium (Tall Oregon Grape)
Berberis nervosa (Dull Oregon Grape)
Gaultheria shallon (Salal)
Holodiscus discolor (Ocean Spray)
Linnaea borealis (Twinflower)
Lonicera ciliosa (Orange Honeysuckle)
Lonicera hispidula (Hairy Honeysuckle)
Osmaronia cerasiformis (Indian Plum)
Ribes sp. (Wild Currant)
Ribes lacustre (Black gooseberry)
Rosa gymnocarpa (Baldhip Rose)
Rosa nutkana (Nootka Rose)
Rubus parviflorus (Thimbleberry)
21
Rubus spectabilis (Salmonberry)
Rubus ursinus (Trailing Blackberry)
Symphoricarpos albus (Snowberry)
Vaccinium parvifolium (Red Huckleberry)
Herbs, Grasses, Ferns and Fern Allies
Achlys triphylla (Vanilla Leaf)
Adenocaulon bicolor (Pathfinder)
Aira caryophylla (Silver Hairgrass) (I)
Aira praecox (Early Hairgrass) (I)
Anthoxanthum odoratum (Sweet Vernal Grass) (I)
Arctium minus (Common Burdock) (I)
Bromus inermis (Smooth Brome) (I)
Bromus sitchensis (Alaska Brome)
Calamagrostis canadensis (Bluejoint)
Carex obnupta (Slough Sedge)
Cerastium arvense (Field Chickweed)
Cirsium arvense (Canada Thistle) (I)
Cirsium vulgare (Bull Thistle) (I)
Cinna latifolia (Wood Reedgrass)
Collinsia parviflora (Blue-eyed Mary)
Crepis capillaris (Smooth Hawksbeard) (I)
Cynosurus echinatus (Hedgehog Dogtail) (I)
Dactylis glomerata (Orchard Grass) (I)
Dicentrum formosa (Bleeding Heart)
Digitalis purpurea (Foxglove) (I)
Elymus glaucus (Blue Wild Rye)
Epilobium angustifolium (Fireweed)
Eriophyllum lanatum (Wooly Eriophyllum)
Equisetum arvense (Common Horsetail)
Equisetum fluviatile (Swamp Horsetail)
Equisetum hyemale (Scouring Rush)
Festuca rubra (Red Fescue)
Festuca sp. (Fescue)
Galium aparine (Cleavers)
Galium triflorum (Sweet Scented Bedstraw)
Geranium robertianum (Herb Robert) (I)
Geum macrophyllum (Large-leaved Avens)
Goodyera oblongifolia (Rattlesnake Plantain)
Heracleum lanatum (Cow Parsnip)
Hieracium albiflorum (White Flowered Hawkweed)
Hypochaeris radicata (Hairy Cat’s Ear) (I)
Lactuca muralis (Wall Lettuce) (I)
22
Lathyrus nevadensis (Purple Peavine)
Listera cordata (Heart Leafed Twayblade)
Lupinus sp. (Lupine)
Luzula parviflora (Small Flowered Wood Rush)
Melampyrum lineare (Cow Wheat)
Montia perfoliata (Miner’s Lettuce)
Montia siberica (Siberian Miner`s Lettuce)
Myosotis laxa (Small Flowered Forget-Me-Not) (I)
Nemophila parviflora (Nemophila)
Osmorhiza chilensis (Sweet Cicely)
Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort) (I)
Plectritis congesta (Sea Blush)
Polystichum munitum (Sword Fern)
Pteridium aquilinum (Bracken Fern)
Rumex acetosella (Sheep Sorrel) (I)
Sanicula crassicaulis (Pacific Sanicle)
Stachys cooleyae (Cooley’s Hedge Nettle)
Stellaria calycantha (Northern Starwort)
Taraxacum officinale (Common Dandelion) (I)
Thalictrum occidentale (Western Meadow Rue)
Tiarella trifoliata (Foamflower)
Trientalis latifolia (Broad-Leafed Starflower)
Trisetum cernuum (Nodding Trisetum)
Trillium ovatum (Western Trillium)
Urtica dioica (Stinging Nettle)
Verbascum thapsus (Great Mullein) (I)
Vicia americana (American Vetch)
Vicia cracca (Bird Vetch) (I)
Viola sp. (Violet)
Mosses and Lichens
Cladonia spp. (Lichen)
Hylocomium splendens (Step Moss)
Kindbergia oregana (Oregon Beaked Moss)
Leucolepis menziesii (Menzies Tree Moss)
Mnium spinulosum (Mnium)
Polytrichum commune (Haircap Moss)
Rhacomitrium canescens (Roadside Rock Moss)
Rhytidiadelphus loreus (Lanky Moss)
Rhytidiadelphus triquetrus (Goose Necked Moss)
Selaginella wallacei (Wallace`
23
APPENDIX C Species at Risk Analysis
METHODS & APPROACH
A comprehensive search of Schedule 1 of the Government of Canada's Species at Risk Act (SARA) and
the British Columbia Ministry of Environment’s Conservation Data Centre (CDC) website was conducted
to determine whether it is likely that the subject site contains any species listed as endangered,
threatened, or of special concern under SARA or any provincial red or blue-listed species or ecosystems.
A review of the Sensitive Ecosystems Inventory for Eastern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands was
also carried out to determine whether the subject property had been mapped as a sensitive area in this
study.
PLANTS
At the time of writing, a total of 38 plant species native to Vancouver Island, the Southern Gulf Islands
and the adjacent mainland coast were listed as either endangered, threatened, or of special concern
under Schedule 1 of the Canadian Species at Risk Act (SARA). Most of these species are characteristic
either of wetlands or Garry Oak woodland and coastal bluffs, particularly those located at the southern
tip of Vancouver Island and on the adjacent Gulf Islands and many of these species have also been
included in the CDC listings discussed below. The majority of the species listed by both SARA and the
CDC are presently known only from a very few isolated locations in and immediately adjacent to the City
of Victoria and, for reasons related primarily to microclimate and to bedrock and soil characteristics, are
very unlikely to exist on Saturna Island.
CDC records for the portions of the Southern Vancouver Island Forest District located within the Moist
Maritime Subzone of the Coastal Douglas Fir Biogeoclimatic Zone (CDFmm) presently identify 98 redand
blue-listed plant species in terrestrial habitats for the east-central portion of Vancouver Island (as
opposed to the 38 plants species listed under SARA).
After careful analysis, only 9 plant species from these lists (tabulated below) are considered, as being
likely to be found on IR#7, the most probable locations being the woodlands and bluffs located south of
the dominant east-west ridge and along the shores of Fiddler's Cove and Narvaez Bay. Only two of these
species is SARA listed (Meconella oregano- White Meconella). No rare or endangered plant species on
either the SARA or the CDC lists were discovered within the Reserve itself during the course of the
various visits to the property, but several have been found in similar surroundings in very close
proximity to it and the likelihood of their occurrence on the Reserve appears to be high, although the
probability of their occurrence within the area proposed for harvesting itself, which specifically excludes
grasslands and bluffs and wetlands and any areas within 50 metres of these features, is extremely low.
Should, however, any listed species be found to occur in or immediately adjacent to a portion of the
project area, that portion should be set aside as a conservation zone, and not be disturbed by either
project development or operational activities.
24
Table C.1: CDC Listed Plant Species Possibly Located Within IR 7
SPECIES LOCATION LISTING
Allium amplectens
(Slim-leaf Onion)
– Found in Coastal Bluff Habitat in
vicinity of IR 7 and likely in IR 7 as
well in similar habitat.
Blue listed provincially
Clarkia purpurea,
ssp.quadrivulnera (Purple Godetia)
– Found on grassy bluffs in vicinity
of IR 7.
Red listed provincially
Crassula connata var connata
(Sand Pygmyweed )
- Found on Coastal Bluffs in vicinity
of IR 7
Red listed provincially
Idahoa scapigera (Scalepod) – In seepage areas in Coastal Bluff
areas near IR 7.
Red listed provincially
Meconella oregana (White Meconella) – Likely in open areas in eastern and
southern parts of IR 7.
Listed per SARA as
endangered
Red listed provincially.
Plagiobothrys tenellus
(Slender Popcorn Flower)
– Likely on Coastal Bluffs in IR 7.
Found nearby.
Red listed provincially
Ranunculus californicus
(California Buttercup)
– Found on Coastal Bluffs near IR 7. Red listed provincially
Sagina decumbens
(Western Pearlwort)
– Found frequently on Cliffs near IR
7. Likely within IR 7 as well.
Blue listed provincially
Sanicula bipinnatifida
(Purple Sanicle)
– Found at East Point near IR 7.
Red listed. Provincially
ANIMALS
A search of the BC Conservation Data Centre (CDC) website was conducted to identify red or blue-listed
faunal species, or any COSEWIC identified faunal species at risk listed for southern Vancouver Island. A
total of 80 animal species was identified (several of the 84 species listed were unaccountably not given a
rating). A SARA (Species at Risk Act) search was also conducted for the area which listed 33 animal
species as being at risk in areas on or near southern Vancouver Island. On the basis of both lists together
with reported occurrences, a total of 9 species – 7 of which are SARA listed - was determined could well
exist within IR 7 or in the areas immediately adjacent to it, 2 or 3 of which certainly will exist there,
namely Red-legged Frog and Peregrine Falcon. These are tabulated below.
Table C. 2 – Animal Species Present or Likely Within IR 7
SPECIES LOCATION LISTING
Accipiter gentilis
(Northern Goshawk)
– Not formally recorded but suspected
to use upper portion of IR 7
Red listed provincially.
25
Ardea herodeas ssp fanninii
(Great Blue Heron)
– No nests known on IR 7 but almost
certainly fish at Fiddler's Cove.
Blue listed provincially.
Brachyrhamphus marmorata (Marbled
Murrelet).
– Not recorded but suitable habitat for
nesting reported to exist in Older
Forest areas.
Listed as threatened per
SARA
Blue listed provincially
Contia tenuis (Sharp Tailed Snake)
– Not observed but rocky bluffs on
site provide suitable habitat and
species is found on nearby islands
. Listed as threatened
per SARA
Red listed provincially
Euphyes vestris (Dun Skipper) –May use grassy areas near Narvaez
Bay.
Listed as threatened in SARA
Red listed. provincially
Falco peregrinus ssp anatum (Peregrine
Falcon)
– Reported to nest along coastal bluffs
within IR 7.
Listed as of special concern per
SARA
Red listed. provincially
Megascops kennicottii
(Western Screech Owl)
– Not observed but suitable habitat
exists on IR 7.
Listed as of special concern per
in SARA
Blue listed. provincially
Phalocrorax auritus
(Double Crested Cormorant)
– Reported to nest on coastal bluff
area adjacent to IR 7.
Red listed provincially
Rana aurora
(Northern Red-legged Frog )
– Observed in moist forest area on IR
7.
Listed as of special concern per
SARA ;
Blue listed. provincially
BC LISTED ECOSYSTEMS (per British Columbia Conservation Data Centre)
A portion of IR #7 was mapped under the Federal-Provincial Sensitive Ecosystem
Inventory of 1993-1997 (SEI) as being within a formally defined “Sensitive Ecosystem”
(Woodland, Coastal Bluff) or an “Important Ecosystem” (Older Second Growth). In
addition, two small forested Wetlands, also classified as “Sensitive Ecosystems”
although not captured in the initial SEI program, have subsequently been identified on
the southern portion of the property. It is critical in any discussion of this initiative to
differentiate clearly between the two ecosystem classes.
Literally a Sensitive Ecosystem is one that is considered to be fragile and/or rare in the
context of its physical location. Thus:
Coastal Bluff Ecosystems are recognized by the CDC as one of the most poorly represented of all
Sensitive Ecosystems within the entire SEI study area (0.3%) and most of those located within the Gulf
Islands are very small, with corresponding “edge effect” vulnerability. “The Coastal Bluff unit at Fiddler's
Cove (T0707) is one of only 2 in the islands (out of a total of 366 mapped) with an area greater than 10
hectares and should be a conservation priority.” (J.Kirkby, Conservation Data Centre, Ministry of
Environment, Lands and Parks, 2005).
Woodland Ecosystems occupy only 0.6% of the entire SEI study area although, owing to biogeographic
factors, they do occupy approximately 1.4% of the Gulf Islands. the Woodland unit at Fiddler's Cove
(T0703), however, is one of the 10 largest of 245 mapped for the whole of the southern Gulf Islands area
(Ibid.).
26
Wetland Ecosystems (which includes swamps, bogs, fens, marshes, wet meadows and shallow lake
water) account for 1.7 % of the entire SEI study area but considerably less than 1.0% for the Gulf Islands.
In contrast to the above, the emphasis on Important Ecosystems, is less on protection and more on
recommending careful management by landowners, local and senior governments, and others in order
to increase or maintain biodiversity values, while having the ecosystems provide goods and services for
humans.” (Sensitive Ecosystems Inventory: East Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands, Volume 2:
Conservation Manual, p.132.)
This applies to the other notable present ecosystem – Older Second Growth Forest
Thus, while the maturing Older Second Growth in various locations has been described as “significant in
its condition, older forest component (>100 years with many veteran trees >250 years old), and lack of
disturbance and introduced plant species”, in keeping with the established Sensitive Ecosystems
Inventory approach quoted above, consideration of retention need only be applied to particularly
significant portions of this forest type, which may contain very old and healthy veteran trees and which
will serve as buffers to protect streams, the beach and backshore area at Fiddler's Cove, and the
boundary areas of the property
Plant Communities
Virtually all of the SEI ecological community types listed for the property per the BC Ministry of
Sustainable Management, Species and Ecosystems Explorer are currently red-listed in British
Columbia, particularly where they occur in a mature and relatively undisturbed state and where
they cover an area sufficiently large to be viable and relatively immune from “edge effects” and
other forms of disturbance, natural and anthropogenic. However, large areas of these forest
types have now been incorporated within the large Gulf Islands National Park located on
Saturna and other Gulf islands. For all intents and purposes, these are now preserved therein in
perpetuity. As well, the majority of these occur within IR7 landscape units that are designated as
either buffer areas or ecological no-logging zones within the proposed project For these reasons and
as a consequence of the fact that the stands on IR#7 are still immature, it is unlikely that the
implementation of the well planned selective logging and long term forest management program
on IR#7 will will result in significant diminution of the noted SEI community types, especially in that
the planned harvesting activities will avoid any of the Woodland, Wetland and Coastal Bluff
areas noted above and discussed in more detail in the Vegetation Section of the IR7 EA.
C.4 Conclusion
The projects as designed, with the application of the mitigation and management measures discussed,
should pose no unmitigable or unacceptable risk to listed species at risk or Sensitive Ecosystems on IR#
7.
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