Building in the Georgian Bay Biosphere
The Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve (GBBR) is a area that encompasses the eastern coast of Georgian Bay and stretches approximately 175 kilometres from the Severn River to the French River. This part of Lake Huron contains the largest collection of freshwater islands in the world.We are always mind full of how we build and where we build.
Building in the Biosphere Habitat Screening Tool
Do you have a building project in mind? Naturally, you want to choose the best location and protect the key natural features of your property. The following screening tool helps to determine the potential for species at risk habitat on, or adjacent to, your proposed building site.
About the Habitat Screening Tool
Over 50 species are “at risk” in the Georgian Bay Biosphere due to a variety of factors including habitat loss and fragmentation, road mortality, competition from invasive species, pollution and over harvesting. These species are experiencing population declines and therefore have protection under the Provincial Endangered Species Act (ESA). It is your responsibility to ensure your building project is in compliance with the ESA. Local Townships are not responsible for verifying if you are compliant under the ESA, and do not have the authority to consider the ESA provisions in their decision to issue a building permit.
This habitat screening tool has been created to help you determine how the ESA may be applicable to your proposed building project. Essentially the screening tool helps you determine the potential for species at risk habitat on, or adjacent to, your proposed building site. This is best completed as early as possible in your planning process. This screening tool has been designed for small scale building projects. Please note that this screening tool does not replace an ESA permit or absolve the user of any responsibility under the Endangered Species Act. Please contact the Parry Sound Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry at 705-746-4201 with any questions or clarifications about the ESA. Click here for the habitat screening tool.
Species in Biosphere
Ecologically speaking, we live in a rich and diverse neighbourhood. With 30,000 islands, thousands of kilometres of shoreline, rock barrens, mixed forests, hundreds of lakes and a wealth of wetlands, there is a remarkable variety of habitat and wildlife. Unfortunately this great diversity also means we have many species at risk, with over 50 found in the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve.
Since 2007, the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve has actively participated in species at risk education, research, and monitoring. GBBR builds community awareness of at-risk species through targeted information sessions, school visits, and other outreach opportunities. These educational events also promote stewardship actions to promote citizen science and to help maintain and restore habitat. Taking care of the health of our land and water is important for the well being of wildlife, ourselves and future generations.