Natural Areas (particularly Woodlands)

• Improve quality of existing natural areas
• Where possible, increase amount of natural area or linkages between them

(Rationale: average forest cover in Huron County is approximately 15 per cent, with some municipalities as low as 6 per cent. Presence of wetlands is very low in some areas. Research suggests 20 to 30 per cent forest cover and at least 10 per cent wetland cover is needed to maintain ecological health. Some natural areas continue to be lost to agriculture, development and other pressures. Forest health and productivity is less than optimum (i.e. considering indicators such as stocking, tree size class representation, diversity of tree, shrub and woodland plant species, etc.))

Wildlife (and Fish)

• Create and enhance habitat
• Maintain and restore species diversity

(Rationale: natural areas are a key habitat and are at lower than optimum levels. Fragmentation and size (i.e. interior) of existing habitat further reduce suitability. Channelization of watercourses as well as water quality and quantity issues impact on quality of aquatic habitat.)

Water

• Maintain or improve water quality and quantity

(Rationale: quality of water for drinking and recreational purposes is an important issue in Huron County. Low water levels are impacting on fish and wildlife habitat and populations as well as recreational activities.)

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