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GREATER VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT Regional Parks Committee

REGULAR MEETING

Thursday, January 29, 2015 9:00 AM

2nd Floor Boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia

A G E N D A1

1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

1.1 January 29, 2015, Regular Meeting AgendaThat the Regional Parks Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for January 29, 2015, as circulated.

2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES

3. DELEGATIONS

4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS

5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF

5.1 Orientation for the Regional Parks Committee ‐ VerbalDesignated Speaker: Mitch Sokalski, Director, Regional Parks, Planning, Policy and Environment Department That the Regional Parks Committee receive for information the verbal report dated, January 29, 2015, titled “Orientation to the Regional Parks Committee”.

5.2 2015 Regional Parks Committee Work Plan Designated Speaker: Allan Neilson, General Manager, Planning, Policy and Environment Department That the Regional Parks Committee endorse the Work Plan contained in the report dated January 14, 2015, titled “2015 Regional Parks Committee Work Plan”.

1 Note: Recommendation is shown under each item, where applicable.

Regional Parks Committee 1

Regional Parks Committee Regular Agenda January 29, 2015

Agenda of 3

5.3 Manager’s Report – Regional Parks

Designated Speaker: Allan Neilson, General Manager, Planning, Policy and Environment Department

That the Regional Parks Committee receive for information the report dated January 12, 2015, titled “Manager’s Report – Regional Parks”.

6. INFORMATION ITEMS

6.1 Regional Parks Committee Terms of Reference

6.2 2015 Regional Parks Committee Meeting Dates

6.3 Environment and Parks Committee Minutes 2014 Nov 6

6.4 Canpotex Compensation Funding for Burns Bog Research Correspondence dated December 30, 2014, from the Corporation of Delta’s Mayor Lois E. Jackson addressed to Metro Vancouver Chair Greg Moore

6.5 Regional Parks Summary of February 2015 Events

7. OTHER BUSINESS 8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONS 9. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING

Note: The Committee must state by resolution the basis under section 90 of the Community Charter on which the meeting is being closed. If a member wishes to add an item, the basis must be included below.

10. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION That the Regional Parks Committee adjourn its regular meeting of January 29, 2015.

Membership: Deal, Heather (C) – Vancouver Long, Bob (VC) – Langley Township Braun, Henry – Abbotsford Dhaliwal, Sav – Burnaby Elkerton, Janis – Pitt Meadows

Hayne, Bruce – SurreyHodge, Craig – Coquitlam Jackson, Lois – Delta McEwen, John – Anmore Muri, Lisa – North Vancouver District

Nicholson, Maureen – Bowen IslandPenner, Darrell – Port Coquitlam Read, Nicole – Maple Ridge

10745515


To: Environment and Parks Committee

From: Allan Neilson, General Manager, Planning, Policy and Environment Department

Date: January 14, 2015 Meeting Date: January 29, 2015

Subject: 2015 Regional Parks Committee Work Plan

RECOMMENDATION That the Regional Parks Committee endorse the Work Plan contained in the report dated January 14, 2015, titled “2015 Regional Parks Committee Work Plan”.

PURPOSE To provide the Regional Parks Committee with the priorities and work plan for the year 2015.

BACKGROUND At its October 12, 2014 meeting, the Environment and Parks Committee endorsed the 2015 Business Plans and Budget for the Regional Parks function, which served as the basis for the 2015 Budget approved by the GVRD Board, October 24, 2014. The 2015 Business Plans included a list of Key Actions that has been used to develop the Regional Parks Committee’s work plan presented in this report.

2015 Work Plan The Regional Parks Committee is the standing committee of the Metro Vancouver Board that provides advice and recommendations on policies, bylaws, plans, programs, budgets and issues related to the Regional Parks function.

Key actions in the 2015 work plan for the Committee are described below and listed according to the Committee responsibilities in its Terms of Reference.

Implement Board‐approved priority actions resulting from the Regional Parks Service Review. Implement solid waste management improvements for garbage, dog waste, recyclables and

organics to meet Zero Waste targets; complete solid waste handling plans for each park site. Complete construction of the Kanaka Creek Watershed Stewardship Centre and hold opening

ceremony. Complete construction of the Surrey Bend Regional Park facilities and hold opening ceremony. Commence construction of the Colony Farm Regional Park Sheep Paddocks Trail; complete in

2016. Assemble and develop technical information required for Regional Park Management Planning

activities specific to the Widgeon Marsh Regional Park Reserve. Resume work on the Regional Parks Master Plan.

5.2


2015 Regional Parks Committee Work Plan Regional Parks Committee Meeting: January 29, 2015

Page 2 of 3 The 2015 work plan for the Regional Parks Committee is provided in Attachment 1 and includes some carry forward items from 2014. The Committee will be updated on the status of the actions and projects in this work plan on a monthly basis per the Committee’s schedule. ALTERNATIVES 1. That the Regional Parks Committee endorse the work plan contained in the report dated

January 14, 2015, titled “2015 Regional Parks Committee Work Plan”. 2. That the Regional Parks Committee provide alternative direction to staff.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The priorities in the 2015 work plan of the Regional Parks Committee are consistent with the key actions included in the Business Plans and Budget approved by the GVRD Board on October 24, 2014. SUMMARY / CONCLUSION The work plan presented in this report conveys the priorities for the Regional Parks Committee in 2015 and is consistent with its terms of reference and the 2015 Budget approved by the GVRD Board. Staff recommends that Alternative 1 be adopted. Attachment: (Doc 10754307) Regional Parks 2015 Work Plan 10754307


Regional Parks 2015 Work Plan Report Date: January 14, 2015

Priorities

1st Quarter Status

Regional Parks Service Review Implementation Plan Development, early actions: develop Land Acquisition strategy and funding model, confirm park classifications, develop 10 year capital Plan, and policy development

in process

Complete the North Arm Extension addendum to the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan and obtain Board approval

in process

Explore and report back to Committee on possible options for a pedestrian only Sheep Paddocks trail in Colony Farm Regional Park

in process

2nd Quarter

Implement solid waste management improvements for garbage, dog waste, recyclables and organics to meet Zero Waste targets; complete solid waste handling plans for each park site

in process

Contingent on land transfers commence field operations at the Delta Nature Reserve

in process

Respond to invitation from Parks Canada on development of an operations and management plan for the Admiralty Point lands

pending

3rd Quarter

Complete construction of Kanaka Creek Watershed Stewardship Centre and hold opening ceremony

pending

4th Quarter

Resume work on Regional Parks Master Plan pendingComplete construction of the Surrey Bend Regional Park facilities and hold opening ceremony

in process

Commence construction of the Colony Farm Regional Park Multi‐use Sheep Paddocks Trail; complete in 2016

pending

Assemble and develop technical information required for Regional Park Management Planning, activities specific to the Widgeon Marsh Regional Park Reserve

pending

Review 2016 Regional Parks Program Budget pending

10754307

5.2 Attachment


To: Regional Parks Committee

From: Allan Neilson, General Manager, Planning, Policy and Environment Department

Date: January 12, 2015 Meeting Date: January 29, 2015

Subject: Manager’s Report – Regional Parks

RECOMMENDATION That the Regional Parks Committee receive for information the report dated January 12, 2015, titled “Manager’s Report – Regional Parks”.

METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL PARKS, IDENTIFIER CLOTHING FOR VOLUNTEERS This overview on identifying clothing for park volunteers is being provided at the request of the Committee.

Many park organizations adopt identifier clothing for volunteers. The choice of gear varies depends on a number of factors including:

Profile required by host agency Nature of Volunteer Activities Tenure of the volunteer (episodic or long‐term, recurring) Preferences of volunteers Climate or prevailing weather conditions Whether worn indoors or outdoors

In 2009, after canvassing numerous park jurisdictions, Metro Vancouver opted for sleeveless nylon vests. These vests are bright blue in colour and stenciled with the word “volunteer” both on the front and back.

The vests also have a clear plastic pocket on the lapel which holds a name card. Vests can easily be adjusted to fit any size, and are easily worn over normal summer clothing, heavier winter coats or even a rain jacket. They are durable, relatively attractive, utilitarian, and easy to retain as inventory. Vests are easily washed and dried, helping to preserve hygiene and enable repeated use by different volunteers. Regional park staff also work with park partner groups and their respective volunteers to ensure the type of identifier clothing is consistent with Metro Vancouver’s goals and program objectives.

5.3


Manager’s Report – Regional Parks Regional Parks Committee Meeting: January 29, 2015

Page 2 of 2

COLONY FARM REGIONAL PARK ‐ SHEEP PADDOCKS TRAIL Detailed design and archaeological impact assessments are underway for the multi‐use (pedestrian and cyclist), Sheep Paddocks Trail in Colony Farm Regional Park. This trail will connect the park to the Traboulay PoCo Trail to the north east of the park. The Environment and Parks Committee asked staff to explore options to keep a pedestrian only trail in the location of the original trail. A public workshop will be held on February 4, 2015, in Coquitlam to discuss possible strategies for a pedestrian only trail and collect input from a wide range of park users and members of the public. A report summarizing this discussion will come back to the Regional Parks Committee in early spring. REGIONAL PARKS COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION OF ATTENDANCE AT 2015 EVENTS The Remuneration Bylaw authorizes Committees to determine the event(s) it will support for attendance and travel by members, and to recommend to the Board Chair the attendees at those events. The costs associated with attending the 2015 Special Park Districts Forum, (SPDF), was approved as part of the 2015 budget. Committee members are requested to advise the Committee Chair of their interest in attending the 2015 SPDF.

2015 Special Park Districts Forum The Special Park Districts Forum is an annual conference, (Attachment). This year’s hosting agencies include Oakland Country Parks and Recreation, Huron‐Clinton Metroparks and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The conference will be held at the Westin Hotel in Southfield, Michigan, USA, from June 8th to 12th. The conference themes include, Water Quality & Blue Economy, Repurposing Resources – Retrofitting Historical Resources, Trends in Recreation, and Urban Recreation Initiatives – Experience Detroit! Attendance at this event by two elected officials has been included in the 2015 budget.

Attachment: (Doc 10766196) 2015 Special Park Districts Forum 10745245


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2015 Special Park Districts Forum

Please join us June 8-12, 2015 for a celebration of

Great Lakes, Great Rivers, Great Parks!

Hosting agencies include:

Oakland County Parks and Recreation Huron-Clinton Metroparks

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Themes we’ll focus on include: Water Quality & Blue Economy

Repurposing Resources - Retrofitting Historical Resources Trends in Recreation

Urban Recreation Initiatives - Experience Detroit!

Agenda: Monday, June 8, 2015 4-8 p.m. - Conference registration: Welcome to Michigan! Join us at The Westin Hotel in Southfield where we will be meeting, greeting and getting you acquainted to Michigan! Opportunities for networking and a strolling dinner will be included in our opening night event!

Tuesday, June 9, 2015 Morning Session: Wolcott Mill Metropark/Stony Creek Metropark (Huron-Clinton Metroparks) Please select one Track:

TRACK 1: Stony Creek Metropark

Extending across Oakland and Macomb counties, 4,461 scenic-acres abound with opportunity for outdoor recreation all year long. Boating and swimming is available in 500-acre Stony Creek Lake. This is prime fishing country with a state record crappie caught here. Visitors hike, bike, run or inline skate through lush woodlands, serene wetlands and tallgrass prairies. In the winter, guests enjoy walking, cross-country skiing

5.3 Attachment


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and snowshoeing across marked trails. A winter sports area includes snowboard, sled and toboggan hills. The Metropark also features a nature center, mountain bike skills course, disc-golf course, 18-hole regulation golf course, baseball diamonds, playgrounds, soccer fields, volleyball and basketball courts. Picnic areas with shelters, grills and comfort stations are located throughout the park.

At the nature center, guests will be divided into three separate groups and will visit three different stations.

Station A: The Nature Center and its operations Participants will receive a tour by staff and view the exhibits and layout of the building itself. During this tour, the exhibit room, studio, office area and workspace will be viewed. The tour will include the process and cost of building the new nature center, how each area in the nature center is used and by who, and how it impacts the operations of the nature center. We will also discuss the staffing and required cost to run the nature center.

Station B: The Montreal Canoe Participants will meet a French Voyageur and discover his role in the French Fur Trade. Michigan history will come alive as participants handle artifacts and view a replica Montreal Canoe. Staff will also discuss how this replica Montreal canoe is used during family, home school, camp, scout and school groups.

Station C: Reflecting on the Past Parts of Stony Creek Metropark were obtained through the sale of land that was once owned by prominent families living in the area. We’ll take a short walk to discover who owned the land that is now the nature study area and view a Reflection Pond that was built by this family. Participants will also get a chance to see how the site is used in programming. Along the way, we will cross over Stony Creek and discover how this small creek is connected to the people living in southeast Michigan.

Note: Station A is the only indoor station. Station B and C will be outdoors.

At Stony Creek, there will be a driving tour of the park with a stop at Eastwood Beach where we will discuss the features and future plans for the facility. Lunch will be served at the banquet tent.

TRACK 2: Wolcott Mill Metropark

Wolcott Mill Metropark is really four parks in one: a late-20th century working farm, historic Wolcott Mill, an 18-hole golf course and Camp Rotary.


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The Historic Center includes a historic grist and feed mill and a barn museum complete with antique farming equipment and a restored Model T dump truck. The mill, pond and two adjacent barns located on the property are listed on the National Register of Historic Places through the National Park Service, Department of Interior.

Wolcott Mill, a 250-acre working farm, is the only known public farm in the state of Michigan where all six heritage breeds of dairy cow - Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Jersey, Milking Short Horn and Holstein - reside year-round. In addition, the farm features a wide variety of other animals, including miniature and drafts horses, multiple species of goats as well as a wide variety of farm fowl.

Beautiful wooded trails and open fields at the Historic Center and Camp Rotary entice hikers and equestrians have 10 miles of trails that meander through woods, meadows and along the Clinton River.

On the bus: Enjoy a brief history on the formation of Wolcott Mill Metropark and the different park centers and challenges faced due to location. We will discuss the efforts to unify the three park centers, both literally and thematically, and fundraising strategies used for improvements and additions to the centers.

Arrive at Farm Center: Enjoy a farm tour and observe the daily cow milking at 10 a.m. We will discuss evolution of programming and actual farm practices to include partnerships with outside entities and entrepreneurialism to create revenue streams to support park operations.

Participants will then hop on a horse-drawn wagon ride to observe farm fields. From there, we will travel to the Historic Center where we will discuss the evolutions of the intrapark trail project, the property acquisition strategy and tandem prairie restoration.

Arrive at Historic Center: At the Historic Center, take a tour of the grist mill and observe a live corn-milling demonstration. We will discuss the Meadows Mill donation and its start-up process. There will also be a discussion on how the Metroparks are threading the three Wolcott Mill centers together and becoming entrepreneurial. Enjoy a delicious lunch which includes ingredients grown at the Farm Center.

Afternoon Sessions: Addison Oaks County Park (Oakland County Parks and Recreation) Addison Oaks is a scenic 1,140-acre park in northeast Oakland County with two lakes and spring-fed ponds. The park provides swimming, boating, picnicking, fishing, hiking, mountain bike trails, camping, disc golf, cross-country skiing and the elegant Tudor-style Estate available for


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weddings, banquets, receptions and business meetings.

Addison Oaks was recently named one of the Top 10 best family-friendly places to hike by MetroParent Magazine.

Please select one Track:

Track 1: Campground Innovations: An Operations & Maintenance Tour Join our Park Operations Staff for a walking tour that will include an overview of our campground operations and maintenance. Learn about ideas for generating revenue through amenities such as yurts, cabins and other innovations. This track involves a 2-mile walk with a group. Activity Level: Moderate

Track 2: Trails and Partners

Hike our new accessible Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund connector trail. Learn how collaborations between township, county, and state recreational departments, and input from local user groups, contributed to the planning, design and development of the trail. This track involves a 2.4 mile guided group walk. Activity Level: Medium

Track 3: Campground Recreation Activities

Join the Oakland County Parks Recreation Programs and Services staff for hands-on experience with a variety of campground and recreation activities offered throughout the park system. Free time will allow you to experience these activities on your own. Activity Level: Moderate

Historic Buhl Estate Tours and Planning Open House

If what you need is some downtime in lieu of the tracks provided above, you can arrive at the Historic Buhl Estate where you can tour the estate, meet with local historians to learn about the history of the property or relax in the garden area.

Following the three tracks listed above, Parks Planning staff will host an open house of business

development and planning resources while you explore the estate prior to dinner.

Dinner hosted by OCPR Addison Oaks Buhl Estate


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Wednesday, June 10 Morning Session: Red Oaks County Park (Oakland County Parks & Recreation) In partnership with the Oakland County Water Resources Commission, Oakland County Parks and Recreation has developed and manages mixed-use recreation above hidden, underground infrastructure that protects the quality of southeast Michigan’s freshwater resources. Red Oaks County Park is a 163-acre urban park where recreational amenities include: a 9-hole Jerry Mathews-designed executive golf course, youth soccer complex, 35-acre nature center property with trails, waterpark facility with a wave-action pool, triple waterslide, river ride and children's water playground, and an urban dog park with 5.2-acres of fenced enclosures for dogs to romp off-leash. This tour will feature three tracks to demonstrate the urban repurposing of open-space above a water treatment basin that serves to prevent combined sewage overflows from 12 urban centers from entering the Clinton River, Lake St. Clair and ultimately Lake Erie.


Track 1: Behind the Scenes: Waterpark Operations & Maintenance Tour Join our Park Supervisor for a walking tour of a wave-action waterpark facility. Learn about our Lifeguard training program, emergency action plans, maintenance and operations, and recreational programs and events that make our waterpark unique. This tour will be less than 1 mile of walking. Activity Level: Light

Track 2: George W Kuhn Retention Treatment Basin Tour Tour what makes this recreation facility an urban exception – the 124 million gallon underground detention facility! Representatives from the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s office will guide us through what’s going on beneath the park’s urban recreation facilities. Learn about the mechanics of ensuring water quality in the Great Lakes by examining facility best practices for managing combined storm and sewer systems (CSOs) from 12 urban centers. Limited access tour (Not ADA accessible) Activity Level: Medium

Track 3: Repurposing Urban Golf Learn how we are repurposing an urban 9-hole golf course for new uses including foot golf, disc golf and glow golf. Meet with Recreation Programming and Golf Course Operations staff to examine golf programming trends. Learn about new events, programs and course amenities that can be implemented to support alternative uses for a traditional golf course. Free time will be provided to experience alternative golf activities or relax on our clubhouse patio. Activity Level: Light to Moderate


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Lunch hosted by OCPR

Afternoon sessions: Lake St. Clair Metropark (Huron-Clinton Metroparks) Whatever your favorite recreational activity, whether it’s bird watching, windsurfing, kiteboarding, boating, bicycling, or swimming, you can pursue it at Lake St. Clair Metropark. A paved trail takes visitors along a one-mile shoreline on picturesque Lake St. Clair. The 770-acre park has three marinas and eight ramps that provide easy access to Lake St. Clair waters. The park also offers an Olympic-sized swimming pool with waterslides, the Squirt Zone spray ground and a 1,000 foot-long sandy beach on Lake St. Clair. In the winter, there is ice activities and cross-country skiing on groomed trails. Nature trails, take guests through meadows, marshland or a grove of cottonwood trees. Lake St. Clair is a top bird-watching site, with more than 230 commonly-seen species. The park also offers nature center, a par-3 golf course and Shipwreck Lagoon Adventure miniature golf course.

Natural Resources Redevelopment and Management As good stewards of the natural resources in southeast Michigan, the Metroparks have been proactive in protecting the marshes and water ways of Lake St. Clair. Learn about the initiatives, partnerships and grants utilized to restore/redevelop the marshes, control phragmites and monitor the water quality of the lake.

Infrastructure Management and Design In a never-ending battle to evolve and meet the demands and trends of the public and industry, park planning and engineering is faced with many challenges. Learn how Metroparks staff has redesigned and redeveloped infrastructure and attractions to improve the environment as well as our patrons’ experience in the park. A sample of projects included are the award-winning parking lot redesign/storm water management, west beach and playground redevelopment, marina redevelopment, and the partnerships and grants that assisted with bringing these projects to life.

Personal Recreation Take some time to get away for a moment for some personal recreation time in the park. Attendees will have the opportunity to partake in a guided canoe trip through the marsh, a relaxing mile walk out to the end of a picturesque point on the boardwalk, or a quick round of golf (par-3 or mini). Enjoy your time outdoors and work up an appetite for dinner.

Park Tour


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Opened in 1950, Lake St. Clair Metropark has seen 65 years of transformation. Join us for an educational tour of how the park has evolved throughout the years focusing on the operations and maintenance of the 770 acres of park land and all of its amenities including a public beach, pool, golf course, marinas and special events.

Blue Water Economy Macomb County has traditionally been a national leader in water-related businesses and is known for its nearly 32 miles of Lake St. Clair coastline and the Clinton River with its many tributaries. Join us for an informational session on how the “Blue Economy” initiative and Lake St. Clair tourism has expanded the economy and increased environmental stewardship and our quality of life in Macomb County.

Dinner hosted by HCMA Thomas Welsh Activity Center

Thursday, June 11 Morning session: Waterford Oaks County Park (Oakland County Parks & Recreation) Waterford Oaks is a 185-acre park located near Pontiac, MI, and home to the headquarters of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. The property has a history of supporting recreational trends by hosting a variety of innovative facilities over time. It now includes a waterpark facility, BMX racetrack, universally accessible playground, hiking

trails, platform tennis courts, and two facilities for urban group rentals.

Additionally, management of the Oakland County Market was transitioned to Parks and Recreation in 2011 and has provided a platform for new programming and health education awareness through partnerships with local agencies.


Track 1: Storm Water Management Demonstration Walking Tour Our Facilities Maintenance and Natural Resources staff will host a half- mile walking tour of a grant-funded storm water management demonstration project. The tour provides an overview of several BMPs including; a detention basin, swales with water control structure, porous pavers, underground dry detention, and native vegetation buffers. Learn about the process undertaken to make this project a reality from grant application, to design, construction, water quality monitoring and beyond. Participants in this track will have the opportunity to walk through our Facilities


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Maintenance garage, view our equipment and maintenance plans, and hear how storm water pollution prevention initiatives are being incorporated into Facilities Operations and Maintenance. Activity Level: Light

Track 2: GeoCache Treasure Hunt Recreation Programming staff will provide an overview of GPS equipment used for park geocache programs. Participants will use handheld GPS equipment to explore a variety of recreational facilities throughout Waterford Oaks using a treasure hunt format. Bring your competitive orienteering edge, and out-navigate colleagues for take-home prizes! This track involves up to 3 miles of walking at your own pace. Activity Level: Moderate

Track 3: Park Planning & Business Development Discussion Spend the morning relaxing in our Lookout Lodge while the Planning and Business Development staff members share insight on planning and business development processes. We will review methods for public engagement and integrating the planning process with Capital Improvement investment recommendations. This will be a seated, lecture-style presentation with Q&A opportunities. Activity Level: Light

Lunch hosted by Oakland County Parks and Recreation Oakland County Market Overview Have lunch and take a leisurely stroll through the Oakland County Market. Visit a variety of local vendor booths, stock your hotel room with fresh Michigan produce, or pick up some locally-sourced conference souvenirs for family and co-workers.

Afternoon sessions – Rural Recreation Experience (Oakland County Parks and Recreation)

Please select one Track: Track 1: Dogs, Fish, Fun: Orion Oaks & Independence Oaks Tour Oakland County Parks’ largest dog park operation to learn about facility amenities and programming. Visit Independence Oaks’ Upper Bushman Lake, a high-quality fishing lake recently designated as one of southeast Michigan’s only catch & release fisheries. Tour one of Oakland County’s largest day-use parks featuring recreational facilities including a beach, boathouse and multi-use trails. Free time will allow you to explore all that Independence Oaks has to offer.

Track 2a: Rural Recreation with Horses, History & Trails: Springfield Oaks & Rose Oaks

Visit Springfield Oaks, a park designed to host special events, including the 10-day Oakland County Fair which attracts more than 100,000 attendees annually. This


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property is also home to the Historical Ellis Barn as well as an Equestrian ring complex and an Activity Center facility. Return to the bus for a ride over to rural Rose Oaks which will include a presentation on trail design & development. Learn about our unique, environmentally-friendly boardwalk construction process. Take a guided tour of the park’s high quality natural resources with a Naturalist who will point out unique natural features of the site.

Track 2b: Rural Recreation with Trails, Horses & History: Rose Oaks & Springfield Oaks This tour is the flip of Track 2b and will start with a ride over to Rose Oaks which will include a presentation on trail design & development. Learn about our unique, environmentally-friendly boardwalk construction process. Take a guided tour of the park’s high quality natural resources with a Naturalist who will point out unique natural features of the site. Following the hike, we will board the bus for Springfield Oaks, a park designed to host special events, including the 10-day Oakland County Fair which attracts more 100,000 attendees annually. This property is also home to the Historical Ellis Barn as well as an Equestrian ring complex and an Activity Center facility.

Dinner at Indian Springs Metropark (Huron-Clinton Metroparks) The 2,215-acre Indian Springs Metropark hosts a variety of recreation including an 18-hole regulation golf course, the Environmental Discovery Center with an underwater pond viewing room, a paved hike-bike trail, scenic picnic areas and volleyball and horseshoe pits. In the summertime, kids can cool off at the Spray ’n’ Play spray grounds with the Adventure Maze, rock-climbing wall and a tot lot. In the winter, cross country-ski nearly 12 miles of trails or bring your sled and try the hill in the Meadowlark Picnic Area.

Before dinner, enjoy a self-guided tour of the Environmental Discovery Center at Indian Springs Metropark. Stops on the tour include the Underwater Pond Dome, the Green Building, Educational Programs and the HVAC System. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m.

Friday, June 12 A Day in the D! (Michigan Department of Natural Resources) Morning Session: Michigan DNR at the Outdoor Adventure Center

Two great success stories and a “behind the scene”, sneak peak of the newest addition to the MDNR in Detroit

1. The History of the Renaissance of the Detroit Riverfront by Karen Slaughter –DuPerry from the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy

2. The Michigan Recreation Passport by MDNR Parks and Recreation Chief, RonOlson.

3. Tour the Outdoor Adventure Center


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Lunch: Hosted by MDNR Picnic at Milliken State Park and Harbor. Enjoy a Detroit mainstay: Coney Island-style hot dogs or ribs and chicken and enjoy the beauty of the Detroit River.

Afternoon session - Riverfront Adventures

12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. Please select one Track:

Track 1: Indoor Archery experience and walking tour of Milliken State Park and Harbor – very low intensity, less than one mile of walking – all paved pathways. Limited enrollment for archery component, must pre-register.

Track 2: River Walk Walking Tour – moderate intensity, almost 4 miles of paved trails, very little change in elevation. Great photo opportunities along the way

Track 3 Dequindre Cut to Eastern Market Bike Tour (4 miles total). Bikes provided, limited enrollment must pre-register. Moderate intensity, 4 mile total ride, some walking – all on paved, flat pathways. Bring your camera – great photos opportunities.

2:30 - 3:30 p.m. Belle Isle

Enjoy the beauty, history and excitement of the “Jewel of Detroit”. This island park, designed by Fredrick Law Olmstead will provide a unique opportunity to see the past,

present and future of urban recreation in Detroit.

Group tour of Belle Isle – visit the Conservatory, the Aquarium, the Dossin Museum and see highlights including: the Golf Course, the Nature Zoo.

Island Adventures

3:45 -5:30 p.m.


Track 1: Horticultural Visit our 110 year old Conservatory, Greenhouse and Woodlands get information on the recently hosted “World Cup of Gardening”.


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Track 2: Historical Scott Fountain, Flynn Pavilion, Casino, carillon, rest rooms, picnic pavilion, welcome center, statues,

Track 3: Water: Kayak the Detroit River (this is limited – must pre-register)

Track 4: Wildlife: Detroit is teaming with unexpected wildlife and is a major international bird flyway. Find out where to look for some of nature’s most magnificent creatures. Loaner binoculars available – this is limited – must pre-register)

Track 5: Wild Card: Enjoy free time to explore the island on your own.

Dinner and Closing Ceremonies: Hosted by MDNR

Conservatory Garden lawn. Smooth jazz and an elegant evening meal set in the formal gardens of our Conservatory will make a memorable event.

Registration

Your full conference registration includes an opening event on Monday evening, as well as four full-day tours hosted by three agencies that include all meals, transportation, and activities!

Early Bird – Jan 12th – March 1st $500/pp

Regular registration March 2nd – May 8th $600/pp

Registration closes May 8th. Don’t miss out!

Hotel The Westin 1500 Town Center Southfield, Michigan 48075 Conference room rates start at $129/night. Check-in 3PM Check-out Noon

Call (248) 827-4000 and mention Special Parks District Forum for conference rate or register online. Reservations required by May 8!

Contact us! Questions and comments are welcome. Contact us via email at [email protected].

10766196


January 7, 2015

Regional Parks Committee Terms of Reference

The Regional Parks Committee is the standing committee of the Metro Vancouver Board that provides advice and recommendations on policies, plans, programs, budgets and issues related to the Regional Parks service.

Committee Responsibilities Within the scope of the Board Strategic Plan, Regional Parks Plan, Regional Parks Service Review, and Metro Vancouver Financial Plan, the Committee provides guidance and oversight to staff on the implementation of the annual work plans and business plans that govern the Regional Parks service. Specific Committee responsibilities include the following:

Regional Parks Service Review The Committee is responsible for guiding and monitoringthe implementation of the Regional Parks Service Review Report. The Committee overseesthe development of the Service Review Implementation Plan, and guides efforts aimed atimplementing key recommendations from the Report, including those that call for:

‐ a revised Regional Parks Classification System; ‐ a Regional Parkland Acquisition Strategy; ‐ a 10‐year Regional Parks Capital Plan; ‐ the development of policies to address a range of aspects of the Regional Parks

system; ‐ changes to program offerings.

Regional Parks System Within the context of the Regional Parks Service Review, theCommittee oversees the ongoing implementation of the Regional Parks Plan and the regionalpark management plans for individual parks. The Committee:

‐ recommends changes and updates to the existing plans, and guides efforts to create management plans for regional parks that are without them;

‐ guides, monitors and promotes the service’s interpretation programs and stewardship initiatives;

‐ oversees the review, update and implementation of key regional parks planning tools, such as the Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory;

‐ oversees and makes recommendations on property acquisition, regional park development, partnership agreements, ecosystem rehabilitation efforts and a range of other items that arise through normal operation of the regional parks system;

‐ guides efforts to promote and further develop the Experience the Fraser partnership program; and

‐ oversees efforts to coordinate with and promote the Pacific Parklands Foundation.

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Committee Membership and Meetings The Chair, Vice Chair and members are appointed annually by the Chair of the Metro Vancouver Board. The Committee meets monthly, except for August and December, and holds special meetings as required. A quorum of 50% plus one of the Committee membership is required to conduct Committee business.

Committee Management The Committee Chair, or in the absence of the Chair the Vice‐Chair, is the chief spokesperson on matters of public interest within the Committee’s purview. For high profile issues the role of spokesperson rests with the Metro Vancouver Board Chair or Vice Chair. On technical matters or in cases where an initiative is still at the staff proposal level, the Chief Administrative Officer or a senior staff member is the appropriate chief spokesperson. Where necessary and practical, the Board Chair, Committee Chair and Chief Administrative Officer confer to determine the most appropriate representative to speak.

The Chief Administrative Officer assigns a General Manager as Committee Manager for the Committee. The Committee Manager is responsible for coordinating agendas and serves as the principal point of contact for Committee members.

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2015 Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Committee Meeting Dates Meetings are held in the 2nd floor Boardroom at 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby. Meetings are subject to change. Check the calendar on the Metro Vancouver website or the respective

meeting agenda to confirm times and locations.

Regional Parks Committee

Thursday, January 29 9:00 am

Thursday, February 19 9:00 am

Wednesday, March 25 9:00 am

Thursday, April 23 9:00 am

Thursday, May 21 9:00 am

Thursday, June 18 9:00 am

Thursday, July 9 9:00 am

Thursday, September 3 9:00 am

Thursday, October 1 9:00 am

Thursday, November 5 9:00 am

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the GVRD Environment and Parks Committee held on Thursday, November 6, 2014 Page 1 of 8

GREATER VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT ENVIRONMENT AND PARKS COMMITTEE

Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) Environment and Parks Committee held at 9:01 a.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2014 in the 2nd Floor Boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia.

PRESENT: Chair, Director Heather Deal, Vancouver Vice Chair, Director Gayle Martin, Langley City (arrived at 9:05 a.m; departed at 10:49 a.m.) Director Sav Dhaliwal, Burnaby (arrived at 9:03 a.m.) Councillor Craig Hodge, Coquitlam Councillor Mike Little, North Vancouver District Councillor Bob Long, Langley Township Councillor Darrell Penner, Port Coquitlam Director Harold Steves, Richmond (arrived at 9:04 a.m.) Director Andrew Stone, Bowen Island Director Deb Walters, Pitt Meadows

ABSENT: Director Bruce Banman, Abbotsford Councillor Al Hogarth, Maple Ridge Director Barbara Steele, Surrey

STAFF: Allan Neilson, General Manager, Planning, Policy and Environment Carol Mason, Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer Janis Knaupp, Assistant to Regional Committees, Board and Information Services,

Legal and Legislative Services

1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

1.1 November 6, 2014 Regular Meeting Agenda

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for November 6, 2014, as circulated.

CARRIED

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2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES 2.1 October 2, 2014 Regular Meeting Minutes

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held October 2, 2014, as circulated.

CARRIED 3. DELEGATIONS

No items presented.

9:03 a.m. Director Dhaliwal arrived at the meeting. 9:04 a.m. Director Steves arrived at the meeting. 9:05 a.m. Director Martin arrived at the meeting. 4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS

4.1 Margaret A. Birch, B.Sc., R.P.Bio, Environmental Services Coordinator, City of Coquitlam

Members were provided a presentation on an update to Coquitlam River Watershed Roundtable (CRWR) activities highlighting the CRWR, the Coquitlam watershed, Lower Coquitlam River Watershed Plan, conceptual models related to high and medium pressures, strategy development related to managing invasive species, level 1 fish habitat assessment, outreach and education initiatives, and roundtable support. A video clip titled “Level 1 Fish Habitat Assessment on the Lower Coquitlam River dated September 2014“ was presented to members related to the level 1 habitat assessment in the Coquitlam River conducted by BC Institute of Technology students. Presentation material titled “Coquitlam River Watershed Roundtable Fall Update” is retained with the November 6, 2014 Environment and Parks Committee agenda.

5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF

PARKS

5.1 Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area – Operating Agreement for Local Government Lands and Provincial Lands

Report dated October 7, 2014 from Gregory Paris, West Area Planner, Regional Parks, Planning, Policy and Environment, seeking GVRD Board approval of the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area (BBECA) Operating Agreement with the Corporation of Delta.



It was MOVED and SECONDED That the GVRD Board approve the Operating Agreement for the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area Local Government Lands and Provincial Lands between the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) and the Corporation of Delta commencing on the Effective Date and expiring on October 31, 2038.

CARRIED

5.2 Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area – Prince Rupert Port Authority Wetland Function Compensation Plan Implementation Agreement

Report dated October 20, 2014 from Markus Merkens, Parks West Area Natural Resource Management Specialist Planning, Policy and Environment, seeking GVRD Board approval to enter into an agreement involving the Prince Rupert Port Authority, Corporation of Delta and Metro Vancouver on the use of habitat compensation funds to support bog research.

It was MOVED and SECONDED

That the GVRD Board authorize staff to execute the Prince Rupert Port Authority Wetland Function Compensation Plan Implementation Agreement and receipt of $195,000 of habitat compensation funds to conduct research in Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area pending Corporation of Delta’s approval.

CARRIED

5.3 Kanaka Creek Regional Park ‐ Contribution Agreement for Operation of the Kanaka Creek Bell‐Irving Hatchery

Report dated October 21, 2014 from Wendy DaDalt, Regional Parks, East Area Manager, Planning, Policy and Environment, seeking Board authorization for a one‐year Contribution Agreement with the Kanaka Education and Environmental Partnership Society (KEEPS) for the continued operation of the Kanaka Creek Bell‐Irving Hatchery in Kanaka Creek Regional Park, in the amount of $21,000 commencing on January 1, 2015 and ending on December 31, 2015.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the GVRD Board approve the GVRD Hatchery Contribution Agreement between the Greater Vancouver Regional District and the Kanaka Education and Environmental Partnership Society (KEEPS) for a one‐year term and annual contribution of $21,000 commencing on January 1, 2015 and ending on December 31, 2015.

CARRIED

5.4 Manager’s Report – Parks Report dated October 20, 2014 from Allan Neilson, General Manager, Planning,

Policy and Environment, updating the Environment and Parks Committee on the Committee’s Work Plan for Parks, Admiralty Point Lands in Belcarra Regional Park, Sheep Paddocks trail pedestrian‐only route review in Colony Farm Regional Park, and the October 25, 2014 Ecoblitz stewardship event.



Members were updated on items in the staff report and informed about Metro Vancouver’s 14th Annual ParksFest event including attendance, format and speakers. In response to questions, members were informed about communications with park partners on pedestrian‐only trail options in Colony Farm Regional Park, and about staff’s plans to meet with Parks Canada on the development of a management plan for Admiralty Point lands in Belcarra Regional Park.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated October 20, 2014, titled “Manager’s Report – Parks”.

CARRIED

ENVIRONMENT

5.5 Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008 – Officer Appointment

Report dated October 21, 2014 from Ray Robb, Environmental Regulation and Enforcement Division Manager, Legal and Legislative Services, seeking GVRD Board appointment of Craig Shishido as an Officer, pursuant to the Environmental Management Act and Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the GVRD Board appoint Craig Shishido as an Officer, pursuant to the Environmental Management Act and Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008.

CARRIED Director Martin absent at the vote.

5.6 Progress Report on the 2011 Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas

Management Plan Report dated October 21, 2014 from Jason Emmert, Air Quality Planner, and

Laurie Bates‐Frymel, Air Quality Planner, Planning, Policy and Environment, providing the GVRD Board with a summary of progress toward implementation of the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan.

Members were provided a presentation on the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan (the Plan) 2014 progress report highlighting performance measures related to Plan goals, progress on key actions, communications on key actions, priority projects moving forward, and next steps.



Comments were offered about including a calculation to reflect the duration of incidences of exceeded emission levels and analyzing results of air quality objectives for health protection.

Presentation titled “Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan 2014 Progress Report” is retained with the November 6, 2014 Environment and Parks Committee agenda.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the GVRD Board: a) receive for information the report dated October 21, 2014, titled “Progress

Report on the 2011 Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan"; and

b) forward the report to agency partners and key stakeholders for information, indicating the Board’s continued interest in working with them to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the Lower Fraser Valley airshed.

CARRIED

5.7 Funding for Metro Vancouver’s Wood Stove Exchange Program and Authorization of Additional Retailers

Report dated October 15, 2014 from Derek Jennejohn, Senior Engineer, and Grace Cockle, Wood Stove Exchange Program Coordinator, Planning, Policy and Environment, updating the GVRD Board on the status of Metro Vancouver’s Wood Stove Exchange Program and seeking Board authorization to formalize the participation of additional wood burning appliance retailers.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the GVRD Board authorize the participation of additional wood burning appliance retailers in Metro Vancouver’s Wood Stove Exchange Program by: a) Directing staff to publish Metro Vancouver’s intention to work with

additional wood burning appliance retailers listed in (b) below to carry out the program; and

b) Authorizing staff to enter into a partnering agreement with each of the following retailers to establish the terms and conditions of the services they would provide to Metro Vancouver as part of the program: i. A & B Technical Services, Surrey, BC ii. Fastgo System (2011) Inc., Burnaby, BC and Surrey, BC iii. Hallmark Heating, Duct and Chimney Services, Surrey, BC iv. 0961051 B.C. Ltd. (doing business as North Shore Fireplace), North

Vancouver, BC v. Solace Home Comfort Ltd., Burnaby, BC and Port Coquitlam, BC vi. The Richmond Firebox Hearth Products Inc., Richmond, BC

CARRIED



5.8 Consultation on an Interim Sulphur Dioxide Objective Report dated October 15, 2014 from Ali Ergudenler, Senior Engineer, and Laurie

Bates‐Frymel, Air Quality Planner, Planning, Policy and Environment, updating the GVRD Board on the development of a new ambient air quality objective for sulphur dioxide (SO2), and seeking Board authorization to undertake consultation on a proposed interim objective to bridge the gap while new national and provincial objectives are being developed.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the GVRD Board direct staff to initiate consultation with key stakeholders to establish an interim ambient air quality objective for sulphur dioxide that better protects human health and the environment.

CARRIED

5.9 Update on Metro Vancouver’s Progress in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Small and Medium Enterprises

Report dated October 21, 2014 from Jason Emmert, Air Quality Planner, and Erik Blair, Planning Data Analyst, Planning, Policy and Environment, updating the Environment and Parks Committee on progress in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption in the small and medium enterprises (SME) sector in the Metro Vancouver region and outline next steps for Metro Vancouver’s GHG reduction program for SMEs.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated October 20, 2014, titled “Update on Metro Vancouver’s Progress in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Small and Medium Enterprises”.

CARRIED

5.10 The Metro Vancouver Car Share Study Report dated October 20, 2014 from Ray Kan, Senior Regional Planner, Planning, Policy and Environment, conveying to the GVRD Board, for information, the Metro Vancouver Car Share Study – the first comprehensive analysis of car share in the region.

Members were provided a presentation on Metro Vancouver’s Car Share Study highlighting policy and study context, car share in the region, key findings, and next steps.

In response to questions, members were informed about car share providers in the region and details of their programs. Comments were offered about challenges to implement car share programs in low density communities. Presentation titled “Metro Vancouver’s Car Share Study” is retained with the November 6, 2014 Environment and Parks Committee agenda.



10:49 a.m. Director Martin departed the meeting.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the GVRD Board receive for information the report dated October 20, 2014, titled “The Metro Vancouver Car Share Study”.

CARRIED

5.11 Manager’s Report – Environment Report dated October 20, 2014 from Allan Neilson, General Manager, Planning, Policy and Environment, updating the Environment and Parks Committee on its 2014 Work Plan for Environment and Non‐Road Diesel Engine Emission Regulation Bylaw.

In response to questions, members were informed about consideration being given to expanding the regulations outside of the region.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated October 20, 2014, titled “Manager’s Report – Environment”.

CARRIED

6. INFORMATION ITEMS

It was MOVED and SECONDEDThat the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the followingInformation Items:6.1 Regional Parks Summary of Events November 20146.2 YVR Support Letter Regarding the Experience the Fraser Project ‐ North Arm ‐

Correspondence dated September 29, 2014, from the YVR, Vancouver International Airport, addressed to Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.

CARRIED

7. OTHER BUSINESSNo items presented.

8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONSNo items presented.

9. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING

It was MOVED and SECONDEDThat the Environment and Parks Committee close its regular meeting scheduled forNovember 6, 2014, pursuant to the Community Charter provisions, Section 90 (1) (d), (i),and (k), as follows:“90 (1) A part of a meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter being

considered relates to or is one or more of the following:



(d) the security of the property of the regional district; (i) the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor‐client privilege,

including communications necessary for that purpose; (k) negotiations and related discussions respecting the proposed

provision of a regional district service that are at their preliminary stages and that, in the view of the board or committee, could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the regional district if they were held in public”.

CARRIED

10. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION

It was MOVED and SECONDEDThat the Environment and Parks Committee adjourn its regular meeting ofNovember 6, 2014.

CARRIED (Time: 11:00 a.m.)

____________________________ ____________________________ Janis Knaupp, Heather Deal, Chair Assistant to Regional Committees

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Regional Parks February 2015

SUMMARY OF EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

01 Feb Creative Cafe Minnekhada

09 Feb Nature Fun by the Fire Pacific Spirit

09 Feb Wild Families Burnaby Lake

13 Feb Owl Prowl Campbell Valley

15 Feb Winter Watershed Snowshoe Tour Mt. Seymour


21 Feb Stories by the Campfire Derby Reach

21 Feb Trail Troupers: Nature Walks for Kids Pacific Spirit

22 Feb Cammidge House Heritage Day Boundary Bay


*Note: This page links to the Metro Vancouver website. Events may have been updated since this page wascreated.

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