Quamichan Watershed Public Access Strategy

Quamichan Watershed Public Access Strategy Quamichan Watershed Stewardship Society March 2011

Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction 1 1.1 The Quamichan Watershed 1 1.2 Watershed Governance 1 1.3 The Quamichan Watershed Management Plan 1 2.0 An Access Strategy for the Quamichan Watershed 3 2.1 Access Strategy Objectives 3 2.2 Approach 3 2.3 Lake Access Sites 4 3.0 Results 10 3.1 Survey Results 10 3.2 Community Meeting Results 12 3.3 SWOT Analysis 12 4.0 Discussion 17 5.0 Recommendations 19 5.1 Potential Timelines 20 6.0 References 21 Appendices 22 Appendix A - Quamichan Watershed Public Access Strategy Survey 23 Appendix B - Public Access Strategy Survey Results 24 Appendix C - Community Meeting Group Exercise Results 25 Appendix D - Community Meeting Poster 26 Appendix E - North Cowichan Highway Construction Permit Application 27 List of Figures Figure 1. Quamichan Lake Access Points 5 Figure 2. Art Mann Park Playground 5 Figure 2. Moose Road Access 6 Figure 3. Tarn Place Walkway 6 Figure 4. Martin Road 6 Figure 5. Henderson Road Trail 7 Figure 6. Catalyst Paper Air Quality Monitoring Station 7 Figure 7. Trumpeter Point Wetland Park 8 Figure 8. Fishing Dock at Sterling Ridge Park 8 Figure 9. Sterling Fire Access 9 Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy ii

1.0 Introduction The Quamichan Watershed Public Access Strategy was created as part of the Implementing the Quamichan Watershed Management Plan Project, carried out in 2010-2011 and undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada provided through the Department of the Environment. 1.1 Quamichan Watershed The Quamichan watershed lies in the Municipality of North Cowichan, 3 km northeast of the City of Duncan on Vancouver Island. It is surrounded by Somenos Marsh and Mount Prevost beyond to the west, Mount Richards and Maple Mountain to the north and Mount Tzouhalem to the east. The major land uses in the watershed are rural use (42%), agricultural (18%), and residential (19%). The most densely developed areas are concentrated to the southern and eastern portions of the watershed. The lake bottom is owned by Timberwest. Quamichan Lake is a relatively small, shallow, mesotrophic-eutrophic (nutrient rich) lake oriented northeast-southwest with a surface area of approximately 3.1 km 2. It has a drainage basin of approximately 17.3 km 2 which contains approximately 15 surface inlet streams. McIntyre Creek and Elkington Creek are the largest of the inlet streams; both drain into the north-eastern corner of the lake. One major outlet stream, Quamichan Creek, is located at the south-western end if the lake. Quamichan Creek discharges into the Cowichan River 1.6 km south of the lake. 1.2 Watershed Governance Three levels of government hold jurisdiction over the Quamichan Watershed. At the local level the District of the Municipality of North Cowichan is responsible for community and land use planning, storm water management, parks and infrastructure development and maintenance, and Riparian Area Regulation bylaws and enforcement. The Cowichan Valley Regional District also holds local authority in the areas of regional parks and land use planning and directs the Cowichan Basin Water Management Plan. The provincial Ministry of Forest Lands and Natural Resource Operations regulate nonmigrating fish, habitat, wildlife, water, waste discharge, and Riparian Area Regulation. Federally, Fisheries and Oceans Canada is responsible for Fisheries Act administration, research and studies regarding water and fisheries issues. 1.3 Quamichan Watershed Management Plan The Quamichan Watershed Stewardship Society (Quamichan Stewards) was formed in 2006 to address the continuously declining health of Quamichan Lake. The society identified the need for a management plan in order to address the issues contributing to the lake s declining health. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 1

A Working Group of professionals and local area representatives from all levels of government was formed, and after a process of planning sessions and community input opportunities, the Quamichan Watershed Management Plan (2009) was created. The management plan outlines the following five goals to improve the lake and the surrounding areas. 1. Inspire the people of the Cowichan Valley to truly value the Quamichan watershed. 2. Improve the water quality of Quamichan Lake and the watershed. 3. Ensure that the water levels of Quamichan Lake support multiple uses within the watershed. 4. Champion ecologically sustainable land use practices within the watershed. 5. Improve habitat in the watershed to support a sustainable fishery and overall biodiversity. Within each goal there are specific objectives designed to act as a framework for implementing the plan and achieving each goal with the best possible outcomes. The Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy is being developed as part of Goal 1, Objective 1a: Increase the visibility of the Quamichan watershed through promoting recreation and educational activities. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 2

2.0 An Access Strategy for Quamichan Watershed This access strategy is being carried out as part of the implementation of the Quamichan Watershed Management Plan. The Quamichan Stewards hope that improving accessibility will allow people to use the lake for many purposes, including recreation. This, in turn, will increase their perception of the ecological value of the watershed. If more residents place a high value on the Quamichan watershed they will in turn want to help mitigate the negative impacts that are affecting the lake s health. 2.1 Access Strategy Objectives The objectives of the Quamichan Watershed Public Access Strategy are to: 1. Identify and communicate to the community where to access the lake. 2. Describe how the community has used the lake in the past, how it uses it currently and how it plans to in the future. 3. Identify features or methods of access to meet the specific needs of users (e.g. wildlife viewing blinds, wharves and ramps for boaters, riparian protected areas, environmentally sustainable walkways). 4. Identify any challenges or impacts of an access point and methods to ensure that these have been addressed. 2.2 Approach This access strategy was created by carrying out the following steps: identify stakeholders, distribute community survey, liaise with stakeholder groups, hold a community meeting, report results and provide recommendations. Identify access sites The Quamichan Stewards worked with the District of North Cowichan staff to identify and confirm public lake access sites around Quamichan Lake. Access site locations were field checked to confirm accessibility, amenities and user friendliness. Identify stakeholders An extensive stakeholder database was created with the aim of identifying all watershed and community user groups and their contact information. Access strategy survey The Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy Community Input Survey was created and distributed to the Quamichan Stewards contact database, community group newsletters, as well as the identified stakeholder contact list. The survey was made available on Survey Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 3

Monkey through links in emails and the Quamichan Stewards website. A printable copy was also available for those who wanted to fill it out by hand and mail it in or drop it off. 93 surveys were completed, 69 through Survey Monkey and 24 submitted by hand. See Appendix A. Liaise with stakeholder groups Identified stakeholder groups were contacted and asked to distribute the community input survey to their members as well as invite them to the community meeting. Community meeting A community meeting was held in order to inform residents of the access strategy, provide an opportunity for community members to voice their ideas/opinions, and allow the Quamichan Stewards to collect community surveys as well as gather input not covered in the survey. Forty individuals attended the community meeting. Report results Results of the survey and community meeting can be found in section 3.0 and Appendices B and C. Provide recommendations This report provides recommendations for improving current public access points and recreational potential of the Quamichan watershed. See section 5.0 Recommendations. 2.3 Lake Access Sites There are eight public access points on Quamichan Lake and a ninth site at Westlock Road that may provide future access to residents living in the immediate vicinity (see Figure 1). These sites, many of which are unconstructed road ends, have been dedicated through the subdivision process to provide access to navigable water and are meant to provide foot access to the lake, with the exception of Art Mann Park which also provides vehicle access (John Mackay, personal communication, December 8, 2010). Of the nine points, only three are currently developed enough to actually provide access to the water (Art Mann Park, Moose Road and Sterling Ridge Park). The other sites may have provided water access at some point but due to a lack of use/maintenance they are no longer passable. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 4

Figure 1. Quamichan Lake Access Points 2.3.1 Art Mann Park Art Mann Park is located at the end of Indian Road on the south end of Quamichan Lake near the outlet of Quamichan Creek. It is the most well known access point for Quamichan Lake and hosts a variety of amenities including: a boat launch, playground, washrooms, picnic tables, benches and a small beach area. A large parking area leads up to a retaining wall at the lake s edge. Figure 2. Art Mann Park Playground Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 5

2.3.2 Moose Road Moose Road is off of Lakes Road on the eastern side of Quamichan Lake. At the end of Moose Road a gate blocks vehicle access to the lake, but it can be opened by the district of North Cowichan if 24 hours notice is given. There is room to park 1-2 cars near the gate. From the gate the access is paved and stretches about 230 metres down to the lake s edge. A small dock provides a good site for fishing or launching a canoe or kayak. Figure 2. Moose Road Access 2.3.3 Tarn Place Tarn Place can be reached by turning off Lakes Road onto Lochsyde Drive and then on to Tarn Place. At the end of the cul-de-sac there is a small sign indicating Public Walkway. The 120 metre walkway passes between bordering lots. A small storm water pond sits just above the lake s edge. The water s edge cannot be reached because of thick riparian vegetation. The water s edge is less than 10 metres away from the end of the path. Figure 3. Tarn Place Walkway 2.3.4 Martin Place Martin Place is accessible from Stamps Road. The road ends in a large cul-desac that could provide ample parking for several cars. Riparian vegetation is thick between the road end and the lake edge. It is approximately 35 metres from the road end to the water s edge. Figure 4. Martin Road Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 6

2.3.5 Henderson Road The Henderson Road access point is located off of Stamps Road. At the road sign there is a notice that that says No Lake Access. There is little parking at the beginning of the 240 metres undeveloped trail. An abundance of invasive species grow along the trail side. It is apparent that this trail is well used by pedestrians, equestrians and tractors dumping yard/garden waste. Approximately 40 metres of dense riparian vegetation and invasive species prevent access to the water s edge. Figure 5. Henderson Road Trail 2.3.6 Deykin Avenue Figure 6. Catalyst Paper Air Quality Monitoring Station Deykin Avenue can be reached off of Maple Bay Road. The road sign indicates No Exit No Lake Access. The road ends in a small cul-de-sac that could provide parking for several vehicles. The lake cannot be reached at this point in time due to impenetrable native and invasive vegetation. The lake is approximately 130 metres from the end of the road. Catalyst Paper has an air quality monitoring station located at the end of the road. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 7

2.3.7 Westlock Road Westlock Road lies off of Maple Bay Road and leads to Trumpeter Pointe Wetland Park. This park does not officially provide lake access but does have a nicely constructed wetland with a small trail that allows visitors to enjoy wildlife and a nice view close to the lake s edge. This trail links up to walking trails built along the subdivision s storm water bioswales. Figure 7. Trumpeter Pointe Wetland Park 2.3.8 Sterling Ridge Park Figure 8. Fishing Dock at Sterling Ridge Park Sterling Ridge Park is located in the Garth Subdivision off of Maple Bay Road. It is the only other municipal Park on Quamichan Lake in addition to Art Mann Park. A small sign indicates Please leash and clean up after your pet. Park amenities include a 100 metre paved access, fishing dock, picnic table, bench and garbage receptacle and a large grassy area that is flooded much of the year. There is a small storm water retention pond located close to the lake. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 8

2.3.9 Sterling Drive (Fire Road) The Sterling Ridge Fire Road is located south of Sterling Ridge Park in the Garth subdivision off of Maple Bay Road. It is identified by a sign indicating Public Lake Access. A 130 metre paved access reaches down to the edge of the riparian vegetation. The thick riparian vegetation for about 25 metres prevents access to the water s edge. Figure 9. Sterling Fire Access Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 9

3.0 Results One of the main objectives of the Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy was to get input from the community as to how the watershed is currently used and what improvements could be made in order to better accommodate the needs of the community. Input was gathered through a public survey, community meeting and SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis. This section includes results from the public access survey, community meeting and a SWOT analysis for each access site. 3.1 Survey Results The Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy Community Input Survey was created and distributed to the Quamichan Stewards contact database, community group newsletters, as well as the identified stakeholder contact list. The survey was made available on Survey Monkey through links in emails and the Quamichan Stewards website. It was also available as a PDF document for those who preferred to fill in a paper copy and mail it in or drop it off. Survey results were collected from December 15 th to February 28 th, 2010. Ninety-three (93) surveys were completed, sixty-nine (69) through Survey Monkey and twenty-four (24) were submitted by hand or mail. 32% of respondents live on the Quamichan Lake waterfront. 53% have visited Quamichan Lake within three of responding to the survey. 56% accessed Quamichan Lake at Art Mann Park, 31% from their own property. For the following results the top three answers are reported here. For the remainder of answers see Appendix B. When asked what attracts them to Quamichan Lake as a recreational destination 48% of respondents are attracted to its nature and aesthetic values. This includes wildlife viewing, nature walks, natural beauty, views, biodiversity, art/painting, and photography. 18% responded for boating activities including power and non-power boating. 9% come to lake to fish. When asked what changes would you suggest that could make their experience more desirable 33% responded improved water quality. 14% responded imposing boating restrictions. 12% responded improved access and facilities. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 10

When asked if they have visited Art Mann Park, what activities had they done there 25% had participated in bird-watching and/or nature walking. 20% had used the picnic or playground facilities 18% had participated in some form of recreational boating, powered or non-powered. When asked if Art Mann Park were to be upgraded, what changes would they like to see 14% responded that they would like the boat ramp improved. 9% responded that they would like a dock installed. 9% would like no changes. The remaining 68% suggested a variety of improvements from mitigating waterfowl impacts to improving various facilities. The last question of the survey suggested eight different development options for all nine potential access sites and asked respondents to choose a first and second choice for each site. Suggested development options were: 1. Construct or extend trails to lake front 2. Connect lake access sites to existing trail networks, such as Mt. Tzouhalem 3. Construct bird blinds or viewing stations 4. Construct more docks for fishing or launching small boats 5. Improve access to existing docks 6. Clear invasive plants and restore riparian vegetation 7. Develop a beach area 8. Leave sites undeveloped The majority of respondents chose #8-Leave sites undeveloped, as their first and second choice development options for the following access sites: Tarn Place, Martin Place, Henderson Road, Deykin Avenue, Westlock Road, and Sterling Drive Fire lane. The number one first choice for Art Mann Park was #4-Construct more docks for fishing or launching small boats and the number one second choice was #6-Clear invasive plants and restore riparian vegetation. The favored first choice for Sterling Ridge Park was #8-Leave sites undeveloped while the second choice was tied between #4-Construct or extend trails to lake front and #5- Improve access to existing docks. The preferred first choice for Moose Road was tied between #5-Improve access to existing docks and #8-Leave sites undeveloped. The top second choice was #4- Construct more docks for fishing or launching small boats. Please refer to Appendix B for complete survey results. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 11

3.2 Community Meeting Results On February 2, 2011 forty (40) individuals attended a community meeting held at the Maple Bay Fire Hall. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the historical and current uses of Quamichan Lake, provide the community with background regarding the access strategy, identify lake access sites for the community, give an update on access strategy survey results collected up to this date, and most importantly gather feedback from the community through discussion and the survey. After an introductory presentation meeting participants were broken up into four groups representing lake access sites on the north, east, south and west shores of Quamichan Lake. Participants were free to choose which group to attend. Groups were led by a facilitator and provided ideas for improving lake access and feedback on the positive and negative aspects of each site. Responses were recorded and are included in Appendix C Participants were very engaged in the small group session and provided positive and insightful input for the access strategy. 3.3 SWOT Analysis Strength, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis has been conducted based on information that includes bathometry, distance to lake edge, nature viewing potential, amenities, available parking, expected community growth, possibility to link to other trail systems, municipal rules and direction for development and access strategy survey results. 3.3.1 Art Mann Park Strengths Easily accessible-can drive to lake front Well known park Well used by the community Playground Boat launch Washrooms Beach area Picnic tables and benches Large Garry oak and Douglas fir trees Opportunities A dock for fishing/boat launching Improved boat ramp Educational interpretive displays about the lake and the feeding of birds Riparian area restoration projects Picnic shelter Community garden Weaknesses Boat launch in poor condition Parking lot goes right to lake edge Playground could be upgraded No dock Lacking riparian area vegetation Needs more seating areas Threats Potential for vandalism Invasive species Lack of riparian vegetation High winter water levels flood parts of the park and parking lot Over abundance of seagulls, ducks and geese Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 12

Dog off leash area away from the lake edge Walking trails/boardwalk towards creek Swimming beach Water park Neighbourhood is within the Urban Containment Boundary and may see more development in the future. 3.3.2 Moose Road Strengths Easily accessible Dock provides good fishing opportunities and a desirable location to launch a canoe or kayak 230 m of paved walking path/road down to lake Located in an area of the lake that provides good wildlife viewing Opportunities Chance to work with Duncan Community Hall to act as a watchdog to monitor activities at the dock Neighbourhood is within the Urban Containment Boundary and may see more development in the future 120 metre walkway to lake 3.3.3 Tarn Place Strengths Signage indicates public walkway Nice wide grassy area down to lake Good wildlife viewing potential Opportunities Only 10 metres of vegetation to clear in order to provide water access Potential for an easily accessible canoe or kayak launch if vegetation were cleared Potential for a nice wildlife viewing area if a small boardwalk with bench were installed Weaknesses Locked gate Poor signage does not indicate public access Small amount of parking near gate (1-2 cars) Path/road is a little long and fairly steep to haul a canoe or kayak down Lake is shallow for swimming and has a very gradual drop off Can be perceived to be private property Threats Vandalism and undesirable activities (drinking, using drugs) Weaknesses No defined trail Cannot reach water due to thick vegetation Lack of parking Lake is too shallow for swimming and has a very gradual drop off Threats Quiet neighbourhood may be bothered if visitors started coming from outside immediate area No barrier at beginning of walk way to stop vehicles from trying to access Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 13

Neighbourhood is within the Urban Containment Boundary and may see more development in the future 3.3.4 Martin Place Strengths Only 35 metres of vegetation to clear in order to provide water access Ample parking area on cul-de-sac This part of lake is less developed and provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities Opportunities Potential for an easily accessible canoe or kayak launch if vegetation were cleared Potential for a nice wildlife viewing area if a small boardwalk with bench were installed 3.3.5 Henderson Road Strengths 240 metres of walking trail This part of lake is less developed and provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities Current path appears to be well used by pedestrians, equestrians and farm vehicles Opportunities Potential for trail improvements to accommodate a variety of users Could provide a nice wildlife viewing area if a bird-blind and/or small boardwalk with bench were installed 3.3.6 Deykin Avenue Strengths Parking area at end of cul-de-sac Located on an area of the lake that has a high aesthetic value Closest access point to high density residential area on the slopes of Mount Tzouhalem Opportunities Potential to link to trail networks Weaknesses Cannot reach water due to thick vegetation Can be perceived to be private property Threats Quiet neighbourhood may be bothered if visitors started coming from outside immediate area Weaknesses Cannot reach water due to thick vegetation Lack of parking Threats Quiet neighbourhood may be bothered if visitors started coming from outside immediate area No barrier at beginning of trail to stop vehicle access Dumping of yard and garden waste Invasive species Weaknesses Cannot reach water due to 130m of thick vegetation Invasive species Threats Quiet neighbourhood may be bothered if Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 14

Potential for canoe or kayak launch if vegetation were cleared Potential for a nice wildlife viewing area if a trail/boardwalk were installed 3.3.7 Westlock Road Strengths Designated as a wetland park Links to neighbourhood trail system Located on an area of the lake that has a high aesthetic value Conservation covenants limit development potential to preserve riparian area Opportunities Potential to install a bird-blind/wildlife viewing platform Potential to link to larger regional trail systems Steepest drop-off, lake is significantly deeper near shore than at any other access point Neighbourhood is within the Urban Containment Boundary and may see more development in the future 3.3.8 Sterling Ridge Park Strengths Good amenities-fishing dock, picnic table, Bench, waste receptacle Located on an area of the lake that has a high aesthetic value Barrier to prevent vehicle access Opportunities Move dock over to an area that provides access year round Improve/expand beach area Restore riparian area vegetation to help absorb water and prevent flooding Improve signage Plant trees to provide shade for picnic area Future potential to link to trail networks Neighbourhood is within the UCB and may see more development in the future visitors started coming from outside immediate area Weaknesses Unconfirmed if this site could actually provide lake access due to conservation covenants Cannot reach water due to thick vegetation Threats Conservation covenants limit potential development in order to preserve riparian area Weaknesses Poor signage-with no indication of Park facility Little parking Can be perceived as private property due to lack of delineation between residential lots and park boundary Dock not long enough to reach deep water when water levels are low Threats High water levels prevent access to the dock for most of the year Quiet neighbourhood may be bothered if visitors started coming from outside immediate area Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 15

3.3.9 Sterling Drive (Fire Road) Strengths Well defined pathway already exists Signage indicates public access Only 25 metres of vegetation to clear in order to provide water access Barrier to prevent vehicle access Opportunities Potential for a bird blind Potential for kayak/canoe launching area Neighbourhood is within the Urban Containment Boundary and may see more development in the future Weaknesses Cannot reach water due to thick vegetation Close proximity to a well-developed access site (Sterling Ridge Park) Condo developments on either side of the access have their own water access Little parking Lake is shallow for swimming and has a very gradual drop off Nearby residences have their own water access making this access redundant Threats Quiet neighbourhood may be bothered if visitors started coming from outside immediate area Invasive species Dumping of yard and garden waste Unauthorized cutting of riparian vegetation Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 16

4.0 Discussion The Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy has been carried out as part of the implementation of the Quamichan Watershed Management Plan. It is hoped that the access strategy will increase the awareness of the recreational value of the Quamichan watershed and in turn increase the use of it by the community. By increasing the use of the Quamichan watershed the Quamichan Stewards are optimistic that the community will place a higher value on it and become active in the effort to restore it to a healthy, functional ecosystem. Valuation of Ecosystem Services (n.d.) states that in order for people to value an ecosystem it must provide them with the use of a good or service. It also goes on to say that people place [value] on having the option to enjoy something in the future, although they may not currently use it (Valuation of Ecosystem Services, n.d.). Klessig (2001) states that aesthetics are the most common use of lakes and many of the studies he reviewed have concluded that natural beauty was the number one value that people place on lakes. In the study, Corridors of Green and Gold: Impact of Riparian Suburban Greenways on Property Values, Hamilton and Quayle (1999) confirmed that greenways are valued by people of all ages and cultural backgrounds, and that access to green space not only increased property values and provided intrinsic services such as fresh air, wildlife and recreational opportunities, but also meant greater access for security and better management of the greenway. In 1998 Lanarc Consultants prepared the Parks and Open Space Strategy for the District of North Cowichan. This report identified the need to provide land of sufficient size to create a community park at the north eastern corner of the lake and that opportunities to provide public access to the shoreline of Quamichan Lake should be sought. Several of the access sites identified in this report have been created as a result of this recommendation. Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. recommended a Quamichan Lake Loop Trail in the 2008 Long Term Needs Analysis: Recreation Facilities. Additionally, the regional Trail Network and Cycling Plan prepared by Lanarc Consultants Ltd. also recommends improvements and expansions to Quamichan Lake access. Some of these recommendations are reflected in the current (2011) draft Official Community Plan prepared by the District of North Cowichan, such as the proposed trail to link Stamps Road and Bazett Road which would allow people to walk or cycle right around Quamichan Lake. In order to develop or improve lake access sites, a proposal will need be put forward to the District of North Cowichan Council and letters submitted to the Public Works and Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 17

Parks and Recreation Committees. Once the works are approved the following permits may be necessary: a Highway Construction Permit (By-law 2261), Natural Areas Development Permit (Development Permit Area 8) and a provincial Water Act Section 9 notification or application. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 18

5.0 Recommendations The following recommendations have been drawn from the results of the public survey, community meeting and the findings of the Quamichan Watershed Management Plan (Quamichan Watershed Working Group, 2009), the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy for the District of North Cowichan, (Lanarc Consultants Ltd., 1998) and the Cowichan Trails a Network of Community Connections: Trail Network and Cycling Plan, (Lanarc Consultants Ltd., 2008). Sensitivity has been given to support the wishes of the community. For example, improvements at Deykin Avenue had little community support, therefore few recommendations are suggested for this location. It is recommended that the Quamichan Stewards prepare a formal proposal for North Cowichan Municipal Council that suggests the following: At Art Mann Park - Improve the boat launch and install a dock for fishing and launching boats, hold work parties to plant riparian vegetation and remove invasive species, make general facility improvements such as upgrading playground, installing more picnic tables and adding educational interpretive signage that includes information regarding appropriate feeding of waterfowl and general information about the Quamichan watershed and lake, and consider the use of raptors to ward off unwanted nuisance birds, such as seagulls. At Sterling Ridge Park Improve signage to indicate location of park, holds work parties to improve riparian area vegetation cover by planting native plant and shrub species, install educational interpretive signage, define a border between residential property lots and park boundary, and consider moving the dock or creating an elevated walkway to allow year round access for visitors. At Moose Road Improve access to the dock by opening the gate during the day, and consider working with the Duncan Community Lodge to provide a watchful eye and report any unwanted activity if needed, hold a work party to clean up the site and remove invasive species and unwanted waste and debris and install educational interpretive signage. At Tarn Place Erect a barrier at the beginning of the walkway to deter motor vehicles, create a defined trail on the grass pathway, remove some riparian vegetation in order to provide water access for canoe and kayaks, and consider the possibility of installing a small boardwalk with a bird blind and bench. At Henderson Road Erect a barrier at the beginning of the walkway to deter motor vehicles, hold work parties to remove invasive species, create a defined trail on the walkway. At ONE of the three sites in the north-eastern portion of the lake (Martin Place, Henderson Road, and Deykin Avenue) consider building a boardwalk with a bird blind and bench. This will provide access to an area of the lake that provides exceptional wildlife habitat and is the least impacted by residential development. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 19

5.1 Potential Timelines Year One: 2011 to 2012 Access Site Potential Improvements To be completed by: Art Mann Research funding opportunities in order to Quamichan Stewards fund future park improvements Sterling Ridge Park Riparian area planting Improve access to dock by moving dock or creating an elevated walkway Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Moose Road Tarn Place Remove invasive species Site clean-up Trial of opening gate during daylight hours Erect a barrier at the beginning of the walkway Remove some riparian vegetation in order to provide water access Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Henderson Road Remove invasive species Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan ONE of Martin Plc, Henderson Rd, or Deykin Avenue Research options for building a boardwalk or trail to water Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Year Two: 2012 to 2013 Access Site Potential Improvements To be completed by: Art Mann Park Design upgrades with District of North Cowichan Fundraise and garner community support Complete Phase 1 of improvements Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Sterling Ridge Park Install interpretive signage Define a border between residential property lots and park boundary Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Moose Install interpretive signage Quamichan Stewards Tarn Place Create a defined trail on the grass pathway Quamichan Stewards Henderson Road Erect a barrier at the beginning of the walkway Create a defined trail on the grass pathway Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Future Years: 2013 and Beyond Access Site Potential Improvements To be completed by: Art Mann Park Complete Phase 2 of improvements District of North Cowichan New sites Explore the potential of new access sites as land becomes available Quamichan Stewards District of North Cowichan Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 20

6.0 References Disentangling Access and View Amenities in Access-restricted Coastal Residential Communities. (n.d.) Retrieved on March 22, 2011 from http://econ.appstate.edu/repec/pdf/wp0910.pdf. Hamilton, S. and Quayle, M. (1999). Corridors of Green and Gold: Impacts of Riparian Suburban Greenways and Property Values. Lanarc Consultants Ltd. (1998, February). Parks and Open Spaces Strategy for the District of North Cowichan. Lanarc Consultants Ltd. (2008). Cowichan Trails a Network of Community Connections: Trail Network and Cycling Plan. Klessig, L. K. (2001). Lakes and society: The contribution of lakes to sustainable societies. Lakes & Reservoirs: Research and Management 2001 6: 95 101. Stevens Point, WI: University of Wisconsin Ministry of Tourism, Sport & the Arts and Ministry of Environment. (2007). Recreational Trails Strategy for British Columbia: Phase 1. Victoria, BC: Province of British Columbia. Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. (2008). District Municipality of North Cowichan Long Term Needs Analysis: Recreation Facilities. Quamichan Watershed Working Group. (2009). Quamichan Watershed Management Plan. Valuation of Ecosystem Services. (n.d.). Retrieved March 22, 2011 from http://www.ecosystemvaluation.org/1-02.htm. Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 21

7.0 Appendices Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 22

Appendix A - Quamichan Watershed Public Access Strategy Survey Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 23

Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy Community Input Survey, December 2010 In 2008 the Quamichan Watershed Stewardship Society created the Quamichan Watershed Management Plan. One of the concerns expressed in the development of the plan, was that there are too few places where people can come down and use the lake for recreational purposes. We are addressing this situation by developing a public access strategy. Your input from this survey will be used to develop the strategy. We will then present the results to the Municipality of North Cowichan. 1) How close do you live to Quamichan Lake? Waterfront Within 1km Between 1km and 5 km More than 5km 2) When was the last time you visited Quamichan Lake, and where did you access it? 3) What attracts you to Quamichan Lake as a recreational destination? 4) What changes would you suggest that could make your experience more desirable? 5) If you have visited Art Mann Park, what activities have you done there? Fishing Bird-watching/ nature walk Swimming Waterskiing or windsurfing Recreational boating Picnic or playground area use Attend meetings or special events Never been to Art Mann Park Other (please specify) 6) If Art Mann Park were to be upgraded, what changes would you like to see? Please describe below.

7) In addition to Art Mann Park, Quamichan Lake is accessible via docks at Moose Road and Sterling Ridge Park. There are also the following undeveloped lake access sites. Sterling Road Tarn Place Deykin Avenue Martin Place Henderson Road Westlock Road The possible development options we have identified for these sites are: 1. Construct or extend trails to lake front 2. Connect lake access sites to existing trail networks, such as Mt. Tzouhalem 3. Construct bird blinds or viewing stations 4. Construct more docks for fishing or launching small boats 5. Improve access to existing docks 6. Clear invasive plants and restore riparian vegetation 7. Develop a beach area 8. Leave sites undeveloped Please indicate your first and second choice development options from the list above, for each lake access site. Tarn Place First Choice Second Choice Martin Place First Choice Second Choice Henderson Road First Choice Second Choice Deykin Avenue First Choice Second Choice Westlock Road First Choice Second Choice Sterling Road First Choice Second Choice Art Mann Park First Choice Second Choice Sterling Ridge Park First Choice Second Choice Moose Road First Choice Second Choice

9) Would you like to be included in the Quamichan Stewards contact list? Yes No 10) If you answered Yes to the above question please provide contact information in the space provided below. Your individual comments will be held in confidence by the Quamichan Stewards research team. Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. Name Phone Address Email

Appendix B - Public Access Strategy Survey Results Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 24

Quamichan Watershed Public Access Strategy Survey Results Question 1 How close do you live to Quamichan Lake? (n=93) Waterfront 30 32% Within 1 km 23 25% Between 1km and 5 km 23 25% More than 5km 17 18% Question 2 When was the last time you visited Quamichan Lake and where did you access it? When? (n=73) In the past 3 months 39 53% In the past 3 9 months 26 36% A year ago or more 8 11% Where? (n=77) Own property 24 31% Moose Road 4 Sterling Drive 4 Trumpeter Pointe 1 Tarn Place 1 Art Mann Park 43 56% Question 3 What attracts you to Quamichan Lake as a recreational destination? (n=141) Boating 25 18% Includes power and non power boating Nature and aesthetics 68 48% Includes wildlife viewing, nature walks, natural beauty, biodiversity, art/painting, photography Fishing 13 9% Location 5 Waterskiing/windsurfing 5 Picnicing/playground use 5 Swimming 4 Ice skating/hockey 2 Resiential use 3 Negative comments 11 Question 4 What changes would you suggest that could make your experience more desirable? (n=125) Mitigate waterfowl impacts 12 Improve water quality 41 33% Improve access and facilities 15 12% Improve boat launch 7 Improve trail system 11

Improve signage 3 Interpretive and indicating access points Impose boating restrictions 17 14% Improve and maintain ecosystem 9 Other 6 No changes 4 Question 5 If you have visited Art Mann Park, what activities have you done there? (n=195) Fishing 18 Bird watching/nature walk 48 25% Swimming 3 Waterskiing or windsurfing 13 Recreational boating 36 18% power and non power Picnic or playground area use 39 20% Attend meetings or special events 22 Never been to Art Mann Park 6 Other 10 Question 6 If Art Mann Park were to be upgraded, what changes would you like to see? (n=94) Improve boat ramp 13 14% Install a dock 8 Mitigate waterfowl impacts 6 Maintain/improve native vegetation 6 Improve picnic facilities 6 Develop trails 4 Improve playground 3 Create/improve beach area 5 Improve seating/benches 3 Install interpretive signage 3 Improve parking area 4 Improve toilet facilities 6 Improve general maintenance 7 Create dog off leash area 1 Naturalize/protect shoreline 6 No changes 8 Other 5

Question 7 Please indicate first and second choice development options for access sites. Options 1.Construct or extend trails to lake front 2. Connect to existing trail networks 3. Construct bird blinds or viewing stations 4. Construct more docks for fishing or launching small boats 5. Improve access to existing docks 6. Clear invasive plants and restore riparian vegetation 7. Develop beach area 8. Leave sites undeveloped First Choice Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Option 5 Option 6 Option 7 Option 8 Other Tarn Place 14 1 4 3 1 7 2 25 (43%) 1 Martin Place 8 1 5 4 1 6 3 21 (40%) 2 Henderson Road 6 1 4 5 1 8 3 18 (38%) 1 Deykin Avenue 6 3 5 4 1 5 2 25 (48%) 1 Westlock Road 9 5 1 9 1 6 3 18 (34%) 1 Sterling Drive (Fire Road) 8 3 2 4 1 7 3 23 (44%) 1 Art Mann Park 10 1 2 14 (28%) 4 8 13 7 3 Sterling Ridge Park 8 1 4 7 2 8 3 17 (33%) 1 Moose Road 9 1 3 8 11 (18%) 7 6 11 (18%) 4 Second Choice Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Option 5 Option 6 Option 7 Option 8 Other Tarn Place 1 5 4 0 1 5 1 11 (39%) 0 Martin Place 1 1 2 3 1 4 2 9 (39%) 0 Henderson Road 1 2 3 0 1 6 2 10 (40%) 0 Deykin Avenue 1 5 2 0 1 2 1 11 (48%) 0 Westlock Road 5 3 4 2 1 4 2 6 (22%) 0 Sterling Drive (Fire Road) 2 3 6 0 1 3 1 8 (33%) 0 Art Mann Park 2 2 3 5 2 8 (23%) 5 4 3 Sterling Ridge Park 2 7 (25%) 3 1 7 (25%) 3 0 6 1 Moose Road 1 3 3 6 (21%) 5 4 0 5 1

Favored answers Tarn Place Martin Place Henderson Road Deykin Avenue Westlock Road Sterling Drive (Firelane) Art Mann Park Sterling Ridge Park Moose Road 1st choice Leave sites undeveloped (43%) Leave sites undeveloped (40%) Leave sites undeveloped (38%) Leave sites undeveloped (48%) Leave sites undeveloped (34%) Leave sites undeveloped (44%) Construct more docks (23%) Leave sites undeveloped (33%) Improve access to dock(18%), Leave undeveloped (18%) 2nd choice Leave sites undeveloped (39%) Leave sites undeveloped (39%) Leave sites undeveloped (40%) Leave sites undeveloped (48%) Leave sites undeveloped (22%) Leave sites undeveloped (44%) Clear invasives and restore riaprian area (23%) Connect to trails (25%) & Improve access to dock (25%) Construct more docks (21%)

Appendix C - Community Meeting Group Exercise Results Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 25

February 2 nd Community Meeting Workshop Results For the workshop portion of our meeting participants were involved in small group discussions to brainstorm ideas and provide opinions regarding possible public access site development options. Four groups were made based on geographic location. They were Martin Place/Henderson Road, Deykin Avenue/Westlock Road, Art Mann Park/Sterling Ridge Drive and Park, and Moose Road/Tarn Place. Access Sites North - Martin Place/Henderson Road Kayak launch Trail Smooth lake access Nutrient reduction Access Sites East - Deykin Avenue/Westlock Road Westlock Nature walk Wildlife conservation-nesting birds No Boat ramp wanted Fishing dock Education signs and bench Deykin 400 feet to waterfront Rowing Access? Nature walks Bird watching bird blind, look at Burnaby Lake for ideas Education option Access Sites West - Art Mann Park/Sterling Ridge Drive and Park Art Mann Park Bigger sign to not feed ducks/geese Proper docking facility for small boats Ramp useless, especially at low water levels Widen boat ramp Beaver control dams are a nuisance, community consensus on dam removal to prevent flooding Ban power boats with gas engines Speed limit for boats Goose hunt (cull) Shelter/picnic area, education Groups using park for events need to clean up, control with permits Expand the beach, add sand Discourage geese Parking close to lake = greater chance for pollution

Minimize flooding Add trails/improve creek access Playground improve fencing Sterling Ridge Park/Drive Re-vegetate shoreline, narrow trail/boardwalk, minimize development, possible fence or bushes to increase privacy Bird blind at end of fire access road (Sterling Drive) Access Sites South - Moose Road/Tarn Place. Trail from moose Road to Tarn Place to make a loop Problems with vandalization/drugs-concerns for safety. Might not be possible to open site because of this No parking at Tarn Barricade at Moose Road prevents access Work with Duncan Community Lodge (formerly Moose Lodge) to increase park facility (tobogganing, picnic site, Canada Day Celebrations, etc.) Approach new owners to make this a positive relationship and venture Maintenance of dock at Moose Road Boat access for canoes/kayaks Not able to swim because of parasites swimmers itch Improve water quality Tarn Place increase visibility as an access site, appears to be someone s yard and puts people off from visiting Maybe take Tarn away from being an access site due to lack of parking If visibility as an access point increased, improve parking (Tarn Place) Interpretive signage Boardwalk, between Tarn Place and Moose Road or just at Tarn with signage and benches Chain up garbage cans for litter, need to be cleared regularly Increase lighting at the access sites to make vandals more visible Look at getting the gate at Moose Road opened during the day for users (boats etc.) summer student job and Municipality of North Cowichan.

Appendix D - Community Meeting Poster Quamichan Watershed Access Strategy 26

Community Meeting Wednesday February 2, 2011 Maple Bay Fire Hall, 1230 Maple Bay Road 7:00 pm, doors open at 6:30 pm Share your views about recreation and public access in the Quamichan watershed Learn about options for improving the community value of Quamichan Lake Supported by: Take part in our public access survey Quamichan Watershed Stewardship Society Phone: (250) 746-0227 Email: info@quamichanlake.ca www.quamichanlake.ca This project was undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada provided through the Department of the Environment.