Southern Ontario Priority Wetland Habitats Final Project Report 2009/2010 (pdf)

Goals and Objectives

Our objective is to increase wetlands and their associated upland habitats by 1690 acres in this, the third year of this proposal.

Activities

Ducks Unlimited Canada’s (DUC’s) plan is to identify the wetlands and associated uplands within identified priority program delivery areas that are important to the waterfowl resource and which need recovery, and institute direct habitat improvements where possible. We will also work extensively with private landowners to have them undertake the work themselves. We have identified crucial and continentally significant waterfowl areas that currently provide for a key component of lifecycle needs of waterfowl and target them for permanent securement— through Conservation Easements, donations or purchase. Activities will involve the identification of opportunities and implementation of direct and extensive programs where possible within the fiscal year. As well, a concerted and coordinated effort will be made to ensure municipalities consider wetland protection in their official planning processes.

Specific Habitat Products/Results to be Supported by WHC’s Contributions

We currently plan to conserve (through long term conservation agreements) and/or restore 490 acres of wetlands and associated uplands in fiscal year 2010 (April 1, 2009 through March 31, 2010) on 14 discrete projects. These projects will involve at least 14 landowners (some projects may have more than one landowner). We will also directly engage, through extension efforts, an additional 30 landowners through stewardship plans and positively impact another 1,200 acres of wetlands and uplands by providing wetland enhancement expertise where applicable. Through workshops and project tours, an additional 250 landowners will learn about conservation practices that they can voluntarily undertake on their lands.

Benefits to Waterfowl, Wetlands-Associated Species, and/or Other Wildlife

Typical waterfowl response to habitat restoration efforts undertaken by DUC is in the range of 5 ducks per acre per year on restored and created wetlands, so the estimated increase in duck production is in the order of 24,500 ducks assuming a ten year life. Existing habitat for 60,000 waterfowl over the next ten years will also be retained under this proposal. Numerous other wetland dependent species will benefit from these works, including several species of special concern in Southern Ontario wetland habitats. DUC will also work closely with all three levels of government in the appropriate areas to positively impact land use planning and policies.

Relevance to Habitat Planning, Decision Making and/or Management

The general public will benefit from wetland rehabilitation works through flood attenuation and improved water filtration with a resulting improvement in water quality. Wetlands improved under this program will provide additional recreational opportunities to landowners and in some cases the general public if access is allowed. These wetlands will also provide educational and extension opportunities as allowed by private landowners. DUC proactively shows municipalities how wetlands improve water quality and attenuate flooding. This ensures that wetland protection becomes part of municipal official planning processes. As all wetlands in Southern Ontario eventually drain into the Great Lakes, water quality of these systems will be improved. Wetlands also help mitigate the effects of climate change through carbon sequestration and by keeping water on the land during periods of drought and through runoff and storm event flood attenuation.

Project Location

This program will be delivered throughout Southern Ontario with a focus on priority landscapes as shown on the map.

Project Contact

For more information on this project, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Manager of Provincial Operations, Ducks Unlimited Canada (Ontario).