Natural Heritage
Resource Policies
The Natural Heritage Resource policies are intended to preserve and improve the network of environmental features remaining in Barrie.
Staff work co-operatively with the representatives of the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) and the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) to graphically define environmental features at both provincial and local levels. Areas in need of environmental protection are divided into three levels, with Level 1 representing those areas in need of the greatest protection.
| Level 1 | includes provincially significant wetlands, habitat of endangered and threatened species, watercourse and vegetation protection zones. |
| Level 2 | includes significant valleylands, rare vegetation communities and woodlands greater than 4 hectares in size. |
| Level 3 | includes regionally significant life science ANSI’s, and supporting woodlands, cultural thickets and meadows. |
Any potential development with natural heritage lands existing on the site must prepare an Environmental Impact Study (EIS) prior to development to determine what may or may not be permitted.
The three levels of the Natural Heritage Resources are represented on
Schedule H of the existing Official Plan.
Implementation of current and progressive Natural Heritage Resource policies is not only an environmental consideration, but an important component of balanced growth. Natural Heritage Resource policies are to be considered in coordination with economic development, social and cultural enhancements, and the intensification of development.
Public input regarding natural heritage conservation will continue to help to achieve policy goals and generate proactive support from citizens. Most recently, these policies were strengthened and revisited as part of the consultation process contributing to the new Official Plan.