Don Watershed News
Don Watershed Plan Update
The TRCA, together with Don watershed municipalities and the soon-to-be-formed fourth term of the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, will be developing a new watershed plan to supersede the ground-breaking Forty Steps to a New Don published in 1994. The need for an update has become clear as a result of a number of recent policy and planning initiatives, notably the requirement for York Region to complete its watershed planning obligations under the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Act.
This new Don watershed plan is expected to be delivered by early 2008 and will include information on the current state of the watershed, detailed sub-watershed maps identifying specific regeneration priorities, management recommendations, and an implementation and monitoring plan. Public consultation sessions to assist in this process will be launched in the fall of 2007.
Don Watershed Regeneration Council Seeks New Members
The TRCA is currently seeking members for a two-year renewable term for the Don Watershed Regeneration Council, a volunteer committee established to achieve TRCA’s vision for The Living City within the Don watershed.
The Don Watershed Regeneration Council was established in 1995 to implement the Don watershed strategy Forty Steps to a New Don, the landmark report of the Don Watershed Task Force. During its most recent three-year term 2004-2006, the DWRC has participated in many municipal environmental advisory committees affecting the Don watershed, and provided community leadership and input on such major environmental issues as the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, source water protection and the Clean Water Act, the Ontario Greenbelt Act and provincial policies on biodiversity and species at risk and biodiversity.
During its next term the DWRC will be assisting the TRCA in updating the Don watershed plan and the Toronto Waterfront Revitalization Corporation in developing plans for naturalization and flood protection in the lower Don.
For further information on the Don Council or to download an application, please visit this TRCA web page or call the TRCA at 416-661-6600, extension 5280.
Fourteenth Annual Paddle the Don - Sunday 6 May
Once a year in early May, the TRCA provides a unique opportunity for canoeing enthusiasts to paddle down the Don from Ernest Thompson Seton Park to the mouth of the river at the Keating Channel. This free event attracts hundreds of participants each spring and helps TRCA raise money for regeneration projects on the Don. Thanks in part to perfect spring weather, this year's 'Paddle' was one of the most successful yet. 418 paddlers in 200 canoes and kayaks took part, and another 100 volunteers kept things working smoothly. Over $28,000 was raised in donations and sponsorships.
Paddle the Don is all about having fun, enjoying nature, and celebrating the Don River watershed. The trip also provides a time for reflection on all the benefits we derive from the natural environment - air, water, resources, recreation, and spiritual renewal - that are integral to the function of the city and the surrounding region. Further information here.
Ninth Annual Mill Pond Splash - Sunday 3 June
Celebrate the headwaters of the Don River at the Ninth Annual Mill Pond Splash, held at Mill Pond Park in the historic old part of Richmond Hill. This is a free family-focused street party featuring wildlife exhibits and demonstrations, nature walks, tree planting, environmental exhibits, art show, birdbox building, musical entertainment, all-day barbeque and much more! Further information here.