Sandbanks Draft Veg Mgmt Plan - Ontario Parks

Sandbanks 

Vegetation Management Plan

ISBN: 978-1-4435-1452-1 (PDF) 

MNR: 52584 (PDF) 

© 2009, Queen’s Printer for Ontario 

Printed in Ontario, Canada 

Cover photo: Sandbanks Provincial Park 

Additional copies of this publication are obtainable from: 

Sandbanks Provincial Park 

R.R. #1 

Picton, ON K0K 2T0 

TEL: 613-393-3319 

FAX: 613-393-3404 

EMAIL: don.bucholtz@ontario.ca 

Recommended Citation: 

OMNR. 2009. Sandbanks Vegetation Management Plan. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 28 

pp. + Appendices. 

i

Summary of Key Management Recommendations 

All park staff involved with operations potentially affecting Sandbanks’ vegetation 

communities will be required to be familiar with this plan’s intent and specific directives. 

Operations and Maintenance Policies (Section 3.1) 

• Herbicide use is restricted and must be in compliance with provincial regulations 

(p. 12) 

• Herbicide use must be kept to a minimum, using suggested chemicals and 

avoiding areas where park visitors and staff may contact it (p. 12) 

• Unless it is unsafe to do so, windthrown and dead standing trees should be left in 

place as they serve important ecological functions. Refer to Appendix A for a 

decision guide (p. 13) 

• When woody material must be removed from the site, it will be used to create 

brush piles for restoration, chipped for trail maintenance, or salvaged for firewood 

(p. 13) 

• Native insect pest outbreaks and diseases are natural processes and should not 

be controlled unless significant values within or adjacent to the park are 

threatened or the pest is a recent invader to Ontario. Forest Health Unit and 

zone office staff must be consulted. (p. 14) 

• Fire management will be in accordance with existing policies and strategies (p. 

15) 

• Mowing will be done to the least extent possible, and will not damage natural 

vegetation or trees. A mowing plan will be developed (p. 15) 

• Leaves and vegetation debris will be disposed of in a composting area (p. 15) 

• Native trees and shrubs from a local source will be used for landscaping (p. 16) 

Protection and Education Policies (Section 3.2) 

• Any proposed developments in nature reserve and natural environment zones 

require consultation with zone ecologist (p. 16) 

• Plant and seed collection must be approved through a research permit or an 

agreement with an Aboriginal user (p. 18) 

• The NHE program should continue to include messages about vegetation 

stewardship (p. 19) 

• All staff must ensure locations of species at risk are kept confidential (p. 16) 

Restoration Activities Policies (Section 3.3) 

• Habitat destruction in development zones will be assessed and mitigated where 

feasible. (p. 20) 

• Local native stock will be used for all planting and restoration in the park. (p. 20) 

Invasive and Exotic Species (Section 3.4) 

• Aggressive invasive species should be controlled when possible following 

approved guidelines. (p. 20) 

• Invasive species that may pose a threat to park environments should be 

monitored. (p. 20) 

• Test plots will be established to determine the threat of Purple Loosestrife (p. 21) 

• Many ornamental shrubs, periwinkle (myrtle), ground ivy, euphorbias, bellflower, 

orange day lily, and sweet violet must not be used in landscaping and should be 

removed where established (p. 21) 

iii

Table of Contents 

1.0 Introduction..............................................................................................................1 

1.1. Location and Setting...............................................................................................1 

1.2. Regional Ecology & Sandbanks Overview .............................................................1 

1.3. Context for Vegetation Stewardship Planning........................................................3 

1.4. Goals and Objectives of Vegetation Stewardship ..................................................4 

2.0 Vegetation Communities – Descriptions, Historical Influences, and Successional 

Processes .........................................................................................................................5 

2.1. Beach and Dune Communities...............................................................................5 

2.2. Forest Communities ...............................................................................................7 

2.3. Wetland Communities ............................................................................................8 

2.4. Agricultural Lands & Disturbed Areas.....................................................................9 

2.5. Plantations............................................................................................................11 

3.0 General Vegetation Stewardship Policies .............................................................12 

3.1. Operations and Maintenance ...............................................................................12 

3.2. Protection and Education .....................................................................................16 

3.3. Restoration Activities............................................................................................19 

3.4. Invasive and Exotic Species.................................................................................20 

4.0 Vegetation Management Units and Management Prescriptions ...........................22 

4.1. Beaches and Dunes .............................................................................................22 

4.2. Plantations............................................................................................................22 

4.3. Woodlands............................................................................................................23 

4.4. Agricultural Lands.................................................................................................23 

5.0 Research and Monitoring Needs...........................................................................24 

6.0 Funding/Linkages..................................................................................................25 

7.0 Summary of Public Consultation and Environmental Assessment Requirements for 

Implementation................................................................................................................25 

8.0 General References and Resources.....................................................................26 

Appendices and Implementation Schedules: 

A. Hazardous Tree Treatment Options 

B. Plantation Renaturalization Implementation Schedule 

C. Local Native Plant Sources 

D. Invasive Species Monitoring and Control Guidelines 

E. Invasive Species Information Sheets 

F. Woodlands Monitoring Protocol 

G. Restoration Implementation Schedule 

H. Sandbanks Species List 

iv

1.0 Introduction 

This vegetation stewardship plan is intended to provide direction for management and 

stewardship activities at Sandbanks Provincial Park. It begins with the ecological and 

planning context for vegetation stewardship. The main community types found in the 

park, as well as the relevant successional processes, are described. An overview of 

general policies is provided before detailed policies are described for specific vegetation 

management units. 

1.1. Location and Setting 

Sandbanks Provincial Park is an approximately 1600 ha Natural Environment class 

provincial park located in Prince Edward County (Figure 1), about 15 km southwest of 

the town of Picton. Sandbanks encompasses most of the county’s southwestern 

shoreline between the village of Wellington and Salmon Point. The park is a popular 

summer destination, with over 500,000 visitors for the 2005 operating season. 

The park is composed of three distinct land areas (Figure 2 – see insert): two large 

coastal baymouth bar formations joined by an intervening area of scenic rural land on a 

limestone peninsula. These three areas will be referred to as the West Lake Dunes, 

Woodlands/Agricultural, and Outlet sectors throughout this document in order to 

minimize confusion and remain consistent with the 1993 park management plan. 

1.2. Regional Ecology & Sandbanks Overview 

Located in Ecodistrict 6E-15 (Picton), Sandbanks Provincial Park is situated at the 

southern edge of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Forest Region. The forest zone 

represents a transitional zone between the principally deciduous tree species to the 

south, west, and east and the coniferous forests to the north. The park’s vegetation is 

characteristic of this region, but some species are more commonly associated with the 

Deciduous Forest Region. The park is home to an extremely diverse range of other 

plants in a variety of ecosystems. 

Ecodistrict 6E-15 encompasses all of Prince Edward County, its archipelago of islands, 

and areas extending east along the Lake Ontario shoreline to the Kingston area. The 

ecodistrict is a shallowly covered plain of Ordovician limestone. Prince Edward County 

is essentially an island in Lake Ontario; its southern position and lake-buffered climate 

allow it to support many Carolinian species as well as a successful wine industry. 

The park encompasses significant coastal ecosystems and earth science features. The 

West Lake dunes (also referred to as the Sandbanks Coastal Sand Bar Dunes) 

comprise a provincially significant ANSI 1 , while the forested dunes and pannes 2 of the 

1 ANSI – Area of Natural and Scientific Interest: a systematically selected area containing landscapes or 

features identified as having values related to protection, natural heritage, scientific study, or education. 

Provincially significant ANSIs contain the best examples of landform or vegetation features of each 

ecodistrict. 

2 panne: also referred to as Great Lakes coastal meadow marshes or shoreline fens, these are specialized 

habitats restricted to near-shore areas of the Great Lakes. Their low nutrient levels and extreme water level 

fluctuations limit their flora to mainly sedges and rushes. 

Sandbanks Vegetation Management Plan 1 of 28 

Ontario Parks, SE Zone 

2009



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Outlet Sector and the former “sugar bush” of the Woodlands/Agricultural Sector are 

considered sites of biological interest 3 (Snetsinger et al 2001). Descriptions of the dunes 

and recommendations for their protection are described in greater detail in the 

Sandbanks Dune Stewardship Strategy 

The geomorphology of the dunes has been well documented throughout the past several 

decades. Life science investigations have been more limited. A reconnaissance 

inventory of the entire park was completed in 1990 (Norris and Cuddy), and a recent 

investigation of significant plant species was conduced by V. Brownell (1999). The park 

contains a diverse mix of significant coastal ecosystems, cultural landscapes, and 

remnant deciduous forests that are representative of the pre-settlement vegetation of the 

ecodistrict. These ecological communities are described in detail in section 2. 

1.3. Context for Vegetation Stewardship Planning 

Ontario Parks has defined ecological integrity as the 

first priority for park management. The objectives of 

Ontario Parks are to ensure that provincial parks 

protect significant natural, cultural, and recreational 

environments, while providing ample opportunities for 

visitors to participate in recreational activities. 

This Vegetation Stewardship Plan will provide 

direction for protecting and promoting the 

appreciation of the park’s forests, old fields, wetlands, 

Pine plantations, deciduous 

woodlots, active agriculture, and 

retired fields near West Point 

and other vegetation communities. It will also address the vegetation management 

principles and issues identified in the current park management plan. 

The current park management plan for Sandbanks, released in 1993, was developed 

with full public consultation. The management plan highlights the need to address the 

impacts of intensive human use on the park environment, calling for the development of 

vegetation and dune management plans. In the event that a new or updated 

management plan is prepared before this vegetation stewardship plan expires, the 

policies of the stewardship plan will continue to apply as long as they do not conflict with 

new management direction. The intention to provide protection and restoration to 

natural areas should be maintained. 

As a Natural Environment class provincial park, the emphasis of management at 

Sandbanks is on protection of natural features while providing opportunities for 

compatible use: 

Goal 

• Protect and interpret its provincially significant freshwater bay mouth dune 

formations and associated ecosystems and its significant cultural heritage 

features, while offering a range of high quality, compatible recreational 

experiences. 

3 

recommended status only 



2009

Objectives 

• Resource Protection: to protect provincially significant elements of the 

natural landscape of Ontario 

• Heritage Appreciation: to provide opportunities for the exploration and 

appreciation of the natural heritage of Ontario 

• Recreation: to provide outdoor recreation opportunities from high intensity 

day use to low intensity wilderness experiences 

• Tourism: to provide Ontario residents and visitors with opportunities to 

discover and experience the distinctive regions of the province 

The guidelines in this stewardship plan will help Sandbanks meet these objectives in 

terms of vegetation. This stewardship plan describes the vegetation communities 

present in the park, assigns those communities to Vegetation Management Units (VMU), 

and provides policies for management actions and implementation. The Vegetation 

Stewardship Plan also provides some direction regarding dune management until a full 

Dune Stewardship Plan can be prepared. 

• All park staff involved with operations potentially affecting Sandbanks’ 

vegetation communities will be required to be familiar with this plan’s intent 

and specific directives. 

1.4. Goals and Objectives of Vegetation Stewardship 

The goal of vegetation stewardship at Sandbanks is to ensure the protection and 

perpetuation of the full diversity of naturally occurring vegetation communities in the park 

and the processes that have led to their development. This goal will be achieved 

through various maintenance and restoration management techniques. 

The specific objectives of vegetation management are: 

• to conserve natural communities and significant species while allowing for 

natural succession 

• to restore or enhance natural vegetation features and processes that have 

been, or may be, lost or degraded 

• to eliminate or reduce the threat of non-native invasive species where 

possible 

• to provide opportunities for park visitors to appreciate and learn about the 

diverse vegetation communities of the park in ways that do not threaten 

existing natural values 

• to ensure the safety of park visitors 

In meeting these objectives it may be necessary to take an active approach to 

vegetation management in order to counter the history of human impacts and promote 

the restoration of natural processes. 



2009

2.0 Vegetation Communities – Descriptions, Historical Influences, and 

Successional Processes 

The principles of this Vegetation Management 

Plan will apply to all terrestrial communities, and 

shoreline aquatic communities in Lake Ontario, 

West Lake, East Lake, and the Outlet River. 

They will not apply to the park’s open water 

aquatic communities of Lake Ontario and West 

Lake as these communities are strongly 

influenced by environmental factors and 

management practices outside the park boundaries. 

Beach, dune, wetland, and plantation 

communities on the West Lake bar. 

Some limited inventories have been undertaken to characterize the vegetation 

communities of Sandbanks, including species checklists in the 1970s and 80s and 

inventories in 1990 (Norris and Cuddy) and 1999 (Brownell). An updated Life Science 

Checksheet was completed for the ANSI portion of the park in 2001 (Snetsinger et al). 

Ecological Land Classification (ELC) staff visited the park in 1994 and identified some 

forest communities. Southeastern Zone staff conducted further vegetation community 

identification through field work and air photo interpretation in 2002 and 2003. The 

community descriptions below are based on these information sources. 

In an effort to use current standardized terminology, communities are described 

following the current Ecological Land Classification (ELC) for Southern Ontario (Lee et al 

1998). The newest iteration of the ELC, which has more accurate descriptions of Sand 

Dune ecosites, is in preparation. Ecosites, and detailed vegetation types 4 when 

possible, are described in the text below (Figure 2). The scientific names of plants 

mentioned below are found in Appendix H. Non-native species are marked with an 

asterisk. 

2.1. Beach and Dune Communities 

The most significant features at Sandbanks are its coastal dune communities and 

associated pannes, due to their extensiveness, uncommon species, and relative lack of 

disturbance (Snetsinger et al 2001, Norris and Cuddy 1990, Macdonald 1987). One of 

the grassland communities found in this habitat is ranked as significant by the Natural 

Heritage Information Centre (NHIC). 

Beach/Bar Ecosites 

Found along the West Lake Dunes and Outlet sectors of Lake Ontario shoreline, 

these ecosites are subjected to active shoreline processes: periodic high water 

levels and storm events, wave action, erosion, deposition, ice scour, and 

extremes in moisture and temperature. They are the most intensively used areas 

4 Ecosites and vegetation types are terms used in the ELC to describe sites at a variety of scales. 

Ecosites are areas with a homogeneous combination of soils and vegetation and are usually mapped at a 

scale of 1:10,000 or more. Vegetation types are a further subdivision of ecosites, and are based on species 

composition. The term community is used generally to describe vegetation assemblages. 



2009

of the park. As a result of these conditions vegetation is quite sparse and limited 

mainly to Marram Grass, Wormwood, and small Eastern Cottonwoods. The 

beach/bar ecosites have mineral substrates including sand, gravel, or cobble. 

Specific ecosites at Sandbanks include Mineral Open Beach/Bar (BBO1), 

Mineral Shrub Beach/Bar (BBS1), and small amounts of Wormwood Gravel 

Open Beach Vegetation Type (BBO1-2), a community ranked as S2S3 by the 

NHIC. 

Sand Dune Ecosites 

The sand dune ecosites are extensive and complex, covering most of the West 

Lake Dunes and Outlet sectors. Sand dunes are defined as active, often rolling, 

hills of accumulated sand above the normal reach of waves and subject to 

erosion and deposition by wind. These ecosites experience drought and 

temperature extremes, and have low nutrient availability since organic materials 

do not accumulate. Vegetation consists of patches of graminoid 5 , shrub, and 

tree species that are adapted to unstable and dry environments. These include 

Canada Wild Rye, Wild Grape, Starry False Solomon’s Seal, and various beachassociated 

willows, poplars, dogwoods, and cedars. Significant species include: 

Marram Grass, Bugseed, Plains Puccoon, Gray-stemmed Goldenrod, Big 

Bluestem, and Little Bluestem. As the most distinctive and extensive ecological 

features of the park, a variety of sand dune ecosites are present: Open Sand 

Dune (SDO1) ecosites, ranked as S2; Sand Cherry (SDS1-1) and Juniper 

(SDS1-3) Shrub Dune vegetation types, both ranked as S2; and Cottonwood 

(SDT1-1) and Balsam Poplar (SDT1-2) Treed Dune vegetation types, both 

ranked as S1. The forested backdunes, particularly of the Outlet sector, have 

been naturally stabilized by Eastern White Cedar – here the vegetation 

communities grade into a mixed forest ecosite. 

History & successional processes: Both the West Lake Dunes sector and the dunes 

of the Outlet sector have a long history of human use. The West Lake Dunes were 

naturally forested until around 1850. Timber cutting and cattle grazing in the late 1700s 

and early 1800s destabilized the dunes and caused their migration inland. Reforestation 

of the eastern portion of this sector in the 1920s to 1960s prevented further migration of 

the dunes, but the unforested parts of the dunes remain active. Sand mining operations 

began in 1915 and continued until the early 1970’s when public opposition resulted in 

the closure of the operations on the shores of West Lake. The recreational facilities in 

this area were initially established in 1962. 

The dunes and beaches of the Outlet sector have been used for recreation since the 

1800s and parking lots and campsites have been present since 1959. The back dunes 

of the Outlet sector remain naturally forested. In both areas, dune colonizers like 

Marram Grass stabilize the sand and provide organic material, allowing shrubs and trees 

to establish. When stabilizing vegetation is removed through trampling, the dunes 

become active, leading to eventual tree death and blowouts. 

Condition: Despite previous human activity, the West Lake Dunes sector is in relatively 

good condition and contains the best examples of natural dune communities. 

Nonetheless, beach visitation and unauthorized vehicle use have impacts on these 

vegetation communities that must be addressed. The dunes and beaches of Outlet 

5 graminoid – a term that refers to grasses, sedges, and rushes collectively 



2009

sector receive much heavier visitation and are zoned accordingly in the park 

management plan. These communities are less diverse than those in West Lake Dunes 

sector. 

Value to wildlife: The varied vegetation composition of the beach and dune 

environments provide valuable habitat for a diverse community of birds, especially 

during migration. It also provides cover for small mammals and their predators, 

especially in the West Lake Dunes sector. Their contiguous, undisturbed nature benefits 

wildlife. Interestingly, huge congregations of several species of dragonfly have been 

noted in the cedar trees on the West Lake Dunes in the fall (Catling and Brownell 1998). 

2.2. Forest Communities 

A variety of deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forest communities are found in the park 

on the dunes and in the intervening landscape. Coniferous plantations are described in 

section 2.4, Cultural Landscapes. 

Deciduous Forest Ecosites 

At Sandbanks, these ecosites are mainly small (< 10 ha) patches of shadetolerant 

forest remnants, some of which have very old (>150 years) trees. These 

forests are found where soils are more developed, especially around the 

Woodlands Campground, along County Road 12 and MacDonald Lane, and in 

the upland portion at the east end of the Outlet sector. The canopies of these 

forest patches are dominated by Sugar Maple, Red Oak, and White Ash, with 

associated Black Cherry, American Beech, Basswood, and Black Maple. The 

subcanopies and understories are generally sparse (< 25% cover), with 

occasional Ironwood, elms, and hickories. The ground layer, while diverse in 

some areas, also tends to be sparse. Forest vegetation types include Dry-Fresh 

Oak-Hardwood Deciduous Forest Type (FOD2-4), Dry-Fresh Sugar Maple 

(FOD5-1), Sugar Maple – Oak (FOD5-3), and Sugar Maple – White Ash 

(FOD5-8) Deciduous Forest vegetation types. 

Mixed Forest Ecosites 

The naturally forested dunes of Outlet Sector are composed of this forest type, 

which is dominated by White Cedar, along with scattered patches of White Birch, 

American Elm, White Ash, and Red Oak. The subcanopy and understorey are 

relatively dense and include a variety of shrub species: Chokecherry, White 

Spruce, White Pine, Hemlock, Riverbank Grape, serviceberries, buckthorns*, and 

honeysuckles*. Some smaller sections of mixed forest are found in the 

Woodlands/Agricultural Sector near West Point and the Dunes Day Use area. 

These communities can be generally described as Dry-Fresh White Cedar 

Mixed Forest Ecosite (FOM4) ecosites. 

History & Successional Processes: For the most part, the mature deciduous and 

mixed forests that remain in the park have been present since the early 1900s or earlier. 

Mature deciduous woodlots in the Woodlands/Agricultural Sector have been used 

sporadically for maple syrup production or fuelwood harvesting since that time. Small 

patches of younger deciduous forest exist in a few locations – these are either sites that 

are succeeding naturally from a nearby seed source, or are naturalized plantations. 

Aerial photography indicates that the mixed forest community along the back of the 

Outlet Sector has been relatively intact throughout the last century. 



2009

Condition: Due to their long history of human use, forests in the park are generally 

degraded, with sparse or disturbed understories and an apparent lack of woody debris 

and natural regeneration. There is also a lack of hydrological diversity in the forests – 

the forest floor is fairly uniform in microtopography and moisture levels. Existing mature 

deciduous woodlots in the Woodlands/Agricultural sector are small and isolated. The 

forests 6 of the Outlet Sector are busy campgrounds. Patches of invasive species are 

present in the ground cover and may threaten the natural understorey community. 

The park staff has noted a visible browse line indicative of high levels of deer browse 

near the 4-way stop on County Road 12. However, a recent wildlife assessment 

indicates that deer numbers in the park are generally low, with possible seasonal 

congregations occurring. Because the park is open to the surrounding landscape, there 

is not a concern of deer over-abundance. 

Value to Wildlife: The park’s forest remnants provide important habitat for a variety of 

wildlife. The variety of forest blocks and their proximity to other habitat types are 

important to migrating and breeding birds, especially those that use forest edges. Some 

interior forest species are present, but their numbers are limited due to the small size 

and fragmentation of forest patches. Forested areas and edges have the greatest 

diversity of breeding bird species in the park, including some regionally rare species (J. 

Dewey, pers. comm.). They may also provide nesting habitat for Southern Flying 

Squirrels (Special Concern federally). Forested areas are generally lacking in 

amphibians and reptiles, due to the lack of vernal pools, ground cover, downed woody 

debris, and easy access to water. 

2.3. Wetland Communities 

Wetlands are confined to small areas of shoreline marsh and the panne communities of 

the West Lake Dunes and Outlet sector. 

Meadow Marsh Ecosites (Pannes) 

This ecosite is found extensively in the West Lake Dunes sector in the interdunal 

slack areas behind the foredunes and to a lesser extent in the Outlet sector 

between the beachfront and the forested backdunes, on the north side of the 

road. They were formerly found in the area where the parking lots were 

constructed in the Outlet sector. Pannes are graminoid-dominated flat 

depressions between sand dunes that have fluctuating water levels – they are 

arguably the park’s most ecologically unique vegetation features. The 

Sandbanks pannes of the West Lake Dunes Sector are considered the best 

developed in the Great Lakes region. They generally have alkaline soils 

developed on calcareous sands. These ecosites support concentrations of rare 

species, including Low Nutrush. The Sandbanks pannes are composed of a 

complex of vegetation types that are better differentiated in the unreleased 

version of the ELC; in the current version, they fall under the Graminoid Coastal 

Meadow Marsh (MAM4-1) vegetation type, ranked as S2. 

6 The sugar-black maple forest of Outlet campground once had a cedar understorey and a very rich and 

diverse flora of spring herbs, as noted in an International Biological Programme survey in 1969. No other 

stand of this type was known in eastern Ontario. The site is still known for its wildflower diversity, but Garlic 

Mustard and trampling threaten the ground layer. 



2009

Shallow Marsh Ecosites 

A few small marsh areas are found on the park shorelines, including the 

southwest shore of West Lake, southwest corner of East Lake, and the Outlet 

River. The marshes typically consist of large-leaved emergent plants like Cattail, 

Pickerel-weed, and Softstem Bulrush. The provincially rare Swamp Rose Mallow 

(Special Concern federally) is found in this habitat type along the Outlet River, as 

is Narrow-leaved Water-plaintain. The dominant vegetation type in these areas 

is Cattail Mineral Shallow Marsh (MAS2-1) vegetation type. 

History and Successional Processes: The park’s wetland communities, except the 

pannes in Outlet sector, have not changed noticeably in the last several decades. The 

stabilization of the dunes, as well as the stable water levels of Lake Ontario, mean that 

the environmental conditions that drive hydrological processes in the panne sites have 

remained relatively constant. 

Condition: The marshes and pannes of Sandbanks are generally undisturbed. The 

Outlet River has been artificially channelized near its mouth and there is concern that 

motor watercraft traffic disturbs the aquatic vegetation. The West Lake sector pannes 

have some trails and remnants of old roads through them, but these receive little traffic 

and appear to have a limited effect on the vegetation. A diverse panne community once 

existed alongside the mixed coniferous forest of the East Lake Sector. Remnants of this 

community bear some resemblance to those of the West Lake Dunes pannes, but are 

much more disturbed and fragmented. 

Wildlife: The park’s wetland habitats provide essential habitat to birds, fish, insects, 

reptiles, and amphibians. The marshes have a high ecological value as staging and 

nesting areas for many birds, including Least Bitterns (Threatened) and Black Terns 

(Special Concern provincially), while the pannes are important foraging habitat for 

migrating birds and nesting habitat for shorebirds. The marshes are particularly 

important for amphibians and reptiles, including turtle species at risk. The Outlet River 

and East Lake marshes, and fishless ponds of the pannes, provide the only natural 

breeding habitat for many species of dragonflies, including some provincially rare 

species. 

2.4. Agricultural Lands & Disturbed Areas 

The current version of the ELC does not deal with these areas comprehensively. ELC 

codes are not used to describe the cultural landscapes below. 

The area between the two dune areas has a deeper, more advanced soil profile that, like 

much of Prince Edward County, has been used extensively for agriculture. There are 3 

basic types of agricultural lands in the park: active agricultural lands, retired agricultural 

lands, and hedgerows. 

Active Agricultural Lands 

Several fields (~45 ha) are currently in cultivation through a long-standing lease 

agreement with a farmer. In fields with deeper soils, cash crops such as barley, 

soybeans, and corn are rotated. Fields with poor soil are used for alfalfa hay. 

Cash crop fields are generally heavily fertilized and treated with Roundup. 



2009

“Weedy” native and non-native species grow in the borders, including Orchard 

Grass, Reed Canary Grass, clovers, milkweeds, asters. 

Retired Agricultural Lands 

A selection of agricultural areas has been retired gradually over the past 20 

years, comprising about 158 ha. These fields are priorities for restoration as 

outlined in Section 4. Vegetation composition of retired fields depends on how 

long they have been left fallow, last treatment of site, proximity to seed sources, 

and type and depth of soil. Typically, these fields are dominated by non-native 

and native grasses and herbs (Common Timothy, Canada Bluegrass, Poverty 

Oat Grass, Orchard Grass, Common Milkweed, goldenrods and asters). In some 

fields European Buckthorn* is invading, threatening the ongoing succession of 

the site. 

Hedgerows 

Although less prevalent than in the past, there are many hedgerows throughout 

the Woodlands/Agricultural sector (~27 ha). Their species composition and 

density vary tremendously, but most contain remnants of the original forest 

cover. While native hardwoods may form the canopy of some hedgerows, the 

understorey layers are generally composed of early successional species like 

buckthorn, hawthorn, crabapple, and Red Cedar. 

Disturbed Sites 

There are several disturbed areas within the park, generally restricted to 

development zones, and less than 30 ha. These areas include roadsides, lawns 

and tile beds, and the campsites. The disturbed areas are typically composed of 

mainly non-native species. It is in these areas that invasive herbs like Garlic 

Mustard and Dog-Strangling Vine have gained a foothold. 

History & Successional Processes: As described above, these areas have a varied 

history. While natural succession appears to be taking place around the edges of some 

old fields, most of these areas are in a state of stalled succession, due to ongoing 

activities, intensity of historic use, or domination by invasive species like buckthorn. 

Condition: Due to their very nature, all of these areas are clearly disturbed. However, 

some of the old fields and hedgerows do have the capacity to become higher quality 

natural areas. 

Value to Wildlife: Although disturbed, these areas provide a diversity of habitats to 

wildlife. A large proportion of breeding birds in park partially or completely rely on open 

areas to fulfill their habitat requirements, including the Red-headed Woodpecker. This 

rare bird (Special Concern) has been observed nesting near Lakeshore Lodge and in the 

maple row along County Road 12 in the past. It uses open areas for foraging. Old fields 

and shrub thickets/hedgerows are particularly important to many of the breeding birds. 

Migrating shorebirds use the open fields for foraging, but many prefer recently tilled 

fields. There is some concern that active fields may be a sink for breeding birds since 

hay is harvested before the first clutch fledges. Old fields in particular also provide 

habitat for small mammals, which are prey for many other species. All open areas are 

also important butterfly habitat due to their abundance of nectar plants and larval host 

species. 



2009

2.5. Plantations 

The current version of the ELC does not deal with these areas comprehensively. ELC 

codes are not used to describe the plantations below. 

The east end of the West Lake dunes is covered in a patchy plantation that stretches 

from the shore of Lake Ontario at Richardson’s Campground back to the eastern corner 

of West Lake, and inland to County Road 12, an area of approximately 80 ha. The 

plantation and its history are described in detail in Implementation Schedule B. Most 

of the area was planted in Scots Pine, with scattered individuals or patches of Jack Pine, 

Mugho Pine, Eastern White Pine, European Larch, Red Pine, Black Locust, and 

Hackberry. There is also a 2 ha Norway Spruce stand at the easternmost corner of the 

plantation. 

History and Successional Processes: The plantation was established in stages from 

the 1920s to the 1960s, in association with a Department of Lands and Forests nursery 

that was on site. The intent was to prevent the migration of the dunes onto valuable 

farmland. In some areas, typically the lowlands on the edges of the plantations, some 

succession of shrubby and deciduous species is occurring. In the most open areas, 

aggressive pioneer species dominate. The upland areas are quite dry and open with little 

soil cover and little succession. 

Condition: The Scots Pine are generally unhealthy, with many trees dead or dying. 

Pine Shoot Beetle and Sirex Wood Wasp have been identified as sources of mortality. 

Some of the Black Locust also appear unhealthy. 

Value to Wildlife: The dense conifer areas provide winter cover for deer and other 

species. A canid den has been found in the plantation. Forest Bird Monitoring has not 

revealed any notable species and bird species diversity is relatively low, although the 

plantation edges have provided nesting habitat to regionally rare birds (J. Dewey pers. 

comm.). Hawks (Sharp-shinned, Coopers) have occasionally nested in the plantation in 

the past, and Wild Turkeys are often seen. The Hackberry plantation provides habitat 

for butterfly species that depend on Hackberry. 



2009

3.0 General Vegetation Stewardship Policies 

General vegetation stewardship policies are detailed below under four broad categories: 

operations and maintenance, protection and education, restoration activities, and 

invasive species. These policies, which apply to all areas of the park, are based on 

Ontario Parks policy and the direction provided in the 1993 Management Plan. If 

Ontario Parks policy or the management plan are updated, the more conservative 

policies will apply. Policies specific to certain environments or management zones are 

detailed in section 4: Vegetation Management Units and Prescriptions. 

3.1. Operations and Maintenance 

Policies in this section apply to the day-to-day operations and maintenance of the park. 

It is essential that the maintenance staff is familiar with, and follows, these 

guidelines. 

Herbicide Use 

All herbicide use must be in compliance with Ontario Parks policy PM 2.16, Use of 

Pesticides and Herbicides in Provincial Parks. Any person authorized to apply herbicides 

in the park must comply with the Pesticides Act. 

As stated in the management plan, noxious weeds like Poison Ivy and non-native 

invasive species may be controlled with herbicides as required. Only herbicides that 

biodegrade quickly, have low or no soil activity and for which environmental impacts 

have been tested and shown to be minimal will be used (e.g. glyphosate and triclopyr). 

Herbicide use will be kept to a minimum and alternatives to chemical herbicides will 

continue to be used whenever possible. Spraying will only be done where park visitors 

or park staff are not at risk of contact during normal activities, preferably during the offpeak 

season. 

Poison Ivy may be controlled in development zones or along trails in natural environment 

or historic zones where park visitors may come into contact with the plant. 

The urgent need to reduce or eliminate invasive exotic species from the park represents 

an exceptional circumstance, and small, localized applications may be used to control 

exotic species in all areas of the park. Further details on invasive species control is 

provided in section 3.4. 

Herbicidal spraying along adjacent transportation corridors could have a detrimental 

effect on plant communities within the park, especially in areas targeted for restoration. 

Athol Township will be encouraged to use only mechanical means to remove brush from 

the portions of County Road 18 and 12 road allowances that are adjacent to the park. 

• Herbicide use is restricted and must be in compliance with provincial 

regulations 

• Herbicide use must be kept to a minimum, using suggested chemicals and 

avoiding areas where park visitors and staff may contact it 



2009

Hazardous Trees and Windthrows 

Safety of park visitors is the highest priority for hazardous tree treatment decisions. 

Nonetheless, the ecological importance of dead tree material, or downed woody debris, 

must also be considered in all cases. Downed woody debris plays a crucial role in forest 

ecology, and can be key to restoring natural areas at Sandbanks. 

Hazardous trees may be felled in development and historical zones or within 15 m of 

trails in natural environment zones if threaten the safety of park users. 

Dead standing trees will be removed only if absolutely necessary, as they provide 

important habitat 7 for birds, mammals, insects, and contribute to ecological processes as 

they decompose. Before dead trees are removed the actual risk they pose will be 

assessed by the superintendent or designate, and if possible, only broken or rotted limbs 

or crowns will be removed, leaving the lower trunk for wildlife. 

Windthrown and felled limbs and trunks will be left in place, except those portions that 

impede passage on roads or trails, or have fallen on mown portions of day-use areas, 

campsites, park facilities, or actively used agricultural fields. When feasible, limbs and 

trunks that are removed will be used to create brush piles for restoration of dunes and 

agricultural land; otherwise, they will be chipped in place and used for trail maintenance 

or salvaged for firewood. Build up of fuel load is unlikely to become an issue except in 

the plantation area, which requires other management prescriptions described later. 

After high windfall events, trees will only be removed when they pose a threat to the 

public, including an increase in fire risk. In cases of extreme weather events like ice or 

wind storms, clean up and salvage operations will follow provincial guidelines. 

Appendix A details the treatment options for hazardous and windthrown trees and the 

criteria for their use. Direction for tree removal in plantation areas is provided in section 

3.3. 

• Unless it is unsafe to do so, windthrown and dead standing trees should be 

left in place as they serve important ecological functions. Refer to 

Appendix A for a decision guide. 

• When woody material must be removed from the site, it will be used to 

create brush piles for restoration, chipped for trail maintenance, or 

salvaged for firewood. 

Insect Pests 

The main Scots Pine plantation is currently affected by a Pine Shoot Beetle infestation 

and a European Wood Wasp infestation (see Implementation Schedule B), causing 

high tree mortality. New species of invasive pests may be identified. Most outbreaks or 

infestations of native insect pests are considered to be natural processes by Ontario 

Parks. Neither of these species is native. The park management plan states that insect 

7 Cavity-nesting birds, such as the provincially rare Red-headed Woodpecker (Special Concern) and other 

woodpeckers, depend on standing dead trees for the construction of nesting cavities. These cavities may in 

turn be used by secondary cavity nesters such as Eastern Bluebirds, Eastern Screech Owls, Black-capped 

Chickadees, and flying squirrels. The presence of these cavity-dependent species in campsites, day use 

areas, and along trails greatly enhances the experience of park users, and increases the educational 

opportunities in the park. 



2009

pests will not be controlled unless they threaten significant park values, such as 

vegetation communities or heritage structures, or if they threaten public well-being. 

When necessary, park staff will be educated to recognize the various life stages of 

serious insect pests, and will cooperate with OMNR and Canadian Forestry Service 

(CFS) staff in monitoring programs. Control methods used should give preference to 

non-chemical and species-specific treatments when possible, and should be considered 

in discussion with the Forest Health Unit and zone office staff. 

• Native insect pest outbreaks and diseases are natural processes and 

should not be controlled unless significant values within or adjacent to the 

park are threatened or the pest is a recent invader to Ontario. Forest 

Health Unit and zone office staff must be consulted. 

Fire Management 

MNR recognizes fire as an essential ecosystem process, fundamental to restoring and 

maintaining the ecological integrity of protected areas in the Deciduous Forest Region. 

Studies of the historical role of fire in this region are limited. Though fire did occur 

occasionally, it was much less common than in other forest regions. Aboriginal use of 

fire may have been a significant factor but its extent and impacts are not well understood 

(Van Sleeuwen, 2006). 

The Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario (OMNR 2004a) provides strategic 

direction for the management of wildfire across Ontario. Sandbanks Provincial Park is in 

the Southern Ontario Fire Management Zone according to this provincial strategy. Fire 

management involves the protection of values and attainment of resource stewardship 

objectives in two ways: 

• Fire response: the protection of people, property, and natural areas from wildfire 

• Fire use: the strategy of maintaining fire as an ecological process through the 

application or management of prescribed fire 

Given the size and shape of the park, its proximity to adjacent developed areas, and the 

fuel load in the plantations, fire management within Sandbanks will focus on protection 

of public health and safety, property and infrastructure. Therefore all forest fires will 

receive a full response and sustained action. Sustained action, if required, will be 

directed through an approved Fire Assessment Report that has been developed in 

consultation between the Park Superintendent or Zone Manager and authorized fire 

management personnel. 

“Light on the land” fire suppression techniques will be used whenever feasible. These 

minimal impact suppression techniques do not unduly disturb natural or cultural values. 

Examples may include limiting the use of heavy equipment or the felling of trees during 

fire response. 

Consistent with the Ontario FireSmart program, a forest fire hazard identification and risk 

assessment should be completed for park infrastructure, and steps taken to reduce or 

mitigate the threat posed by fire to park infrastructure. 

Response for structural fires and forest fires is guided by a municipal forest fire 

management agreement between the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) 

and the municipality. 



2009

Prescribed burning is the deliberate, planned, and knowledgeable application of fire by 

authorized personnel to a specific land area to accomplish pre-determined objectives. 

Prescribed burning to achieve ecological or hazard reduction objectives may be 

considered in the future. Plans for any prescribed burning will be developed in 

accordance with the MNR Prescribed Burn Policy, its associated planning manual, and 

the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves, 

in cooperation with Haliburton Fire Management Headquarters. 

• Fire management will be in accordance with existing policies and 

strategies 

Mowing 

Mowing will be done to the least extent possible, and only in order to ensure the safety 

and comfort of park users. A mowing plan does not exist for the park but will be 

developed based on the principles of this strategy. 

Roadsides will be maintained to a standard sufficient to ensure visibility. A close mowed 

shoulder of up to a maximum of 2 m or less will be maintained adjacent to all paved 

roads. The mowed shoulder provides an important safety zone for cyclists and 

pedestrians to step off the road to avoid oncoming traffic. Mowing may also serve to 

control Poison Ivy. Areas around road intersections and beach parking lots will be rough 

cut infrequently throughout the operating season to provide adequate visibility. 

Day use areas will continue to be mowed as necessary, although areas where mowing 

can be reduced will be targeted by park staff. In some areas, if mowing is eliminated, 

efforts to prevent invasion by non-native invasive species will be necessary. 

In all mowing and cutting operations, care must be taken to avoid girdling trees and 

small shrubs. Damaged trees and shrubs will be protected from further damage by 

having tree guards/plastic pipe wrapped around each. 

• Mowing will be done to the least extent possible, and will not damage 

natural vegetation or trees. A mowing plan will be developed. 

Leaf and Vegetation Disposal 

Unless they are being used in specific restoration actions, leaves and vegetation debris 

other than tree trunks and limbs will be placed in a composting area. Dumping leaves 

and brush can suppress indigenous vegetation, create conditions favourable to exotic 

species, spread seed and roots of exotic species and create a fire hazard; therefore, 

dumping of leaves anywhere other than the specified location is strictly prohibited. 

Preferably, leaves may be left where they fall or mulched into the lawn. Burning of 

leaves is prohibited. 

When invasive species are removed, they will be disposed of according to the guidelines 

provided in section 3.4. 

• Leaves and vegetation debris will be disposed of in a composting area 



2009

Landscaping 

Native trees and shrubs from a local stock source will be used to create shade and 

privacy in campgrounds and other areas as necessary. A list of sources for local stock 

is provided in Appendix C. 

3.2. Protection and Education 

Policies detailed in this section provide guidance for monitoring and protecting the 

significant natural features of the park. These policies must be consulted before any 

planned development activities, including trails, campsites, and other facilities. 

Significant Species and Species At Risk 

Detailed knowledge of rare plant species in the park is limited to a rare species inventory 

and assessment by Brownell (1999). While Brownell’s report is thorough, the work was 

limited to 7 field days. The author recognizes the need for further botanical 

investigations in the park to verify historical records 8 and to find previously unknown 

occurrences of rare species. The park contains many unusual vegetation communities 

(see Section 2) that are likely to support more significant species. 

Sandbanks provides habitat for at least 44 nationally, provincially, or regionally 

significant plant species (Appendix H), some of which are considered to be significant 

disjuncts 9 from their main populations. Provincially rare species and recommendations 

for their protection are listed in Table 3.1. Many of these species are not conspicuous or 

easily recognized, and are therefore at risk of accidental destruction. 

The majority of rare species in the park occur in nature reserve zones. This zoning does 

allow some potentially destructive activities, including the construction of trails and other 

nature interpretation facilities. Detailed site planning of trails and other facilities must 

include consultation with the zone ecologist prior to construction. All terrain vehicle 

(ATV) use by staff must be kept to a minimum in nature reserve areas. 

• Any proposed developments in nature reserve and natural environment 

zones require consultation with zone ecologist 

• All staff must ensure locations of species at risk are kept confidential 

8 Butterfly Weed is likely to be extirpated from the park, but Calypso Orchid, seen by Whiting and Catling in 

1986, may be presented in the forested dunes of Outlet Sector. 

9 disjunct – describes a satellite population that is distant from the core range of a species 



2009

Table 3.1. Provincially rare species known to occur at Sandbanks 10 (Brownell 1999) 

Swamp Rose Mallow 

Hibiscus moscheutos ssp. 

moscheutos 

Special Concern; S3 

321757E 4862622N 11 

Narrow-leaved Waterplantain 

Alisma gramineum 

S3S4 

Marram Grass 

Ammophila brevigulata 

S3 

Long-leaved Reed Grass 

Calamovilfa longifolia 

S3 

316031E 4864807N 

Bugseed 

Corispermum sp. 

S1S3 

316009E 4865259N 

Ram’s-head Lady’s-slipper 

Cypripedium arietinum 

S3 

Plains Puccoon 

Lithospermum caroliniense 

S3 

316677E 484418N (main population) 

Low Nutrush 

Scleria verticillata 

S3 

316621E 4864132N 

Gray-stemmed Goldenrod 

Solidago nemoralis ssp. decemflora 

S1S2 

316893E 4864436N 

• 4 plants (14 stems) found in 1998 

• new record for E. Ontario; significant disjunct for population (closest 

known population in Niagara area and in upper New York state 

• size and quality of marsh habitat must be maintained; potential 

threats include changes in water quality and level, and erosion 

through wave action 

• population should be monitored regularly 

• small band of several hundred plants along north shore of Outlet 

Creek near woodyard and dock; also along south shore near County 

Road 18 bridge 

• restricted to Great Lakes beaches and dunes 

• dominant ground cover with Sand Cherry on leeward sides of 

foredune and sections of back dunes at West Lake 

• reduced at Outlet dunes due to trampling and erosion, but 

rebounding due to protection – some planted from nursery 

• planted plots from Pinery stock are largest populations in park – no 

longer used in dune rehabilitation 

• nurseries of Sandbanks stock still maintained on one tilebed 

• unknown origin – possible accidental introduction 

• small patch of 50 stems along main path through West Lake bar on 

low dune ridge dominated by Little Bluestem 

• most easterly North American record; 390 km disjunct from other 

Ontario populations 

• genus is new record for Eastern Ontario – taxonomy of genus 

unclear, but most species rare in Ontario 

• found in cedar graveyard on loose sand at West Lake dunes in a 30 x 

30 m area 

• growing with Seaside Spurge and Tall Wormwood 

• last seen in 1986 in back Outlet dunes 

• needs to be confirmed 

• occurs sporadically in foredunes and leeward base of back dunes at 

West Lake; one population found in Outlet sector 

• thousands of plants along 3 m wide strip at interface of wet panne 

and high isolated dune at West Lake 

• grows with Twig-rush and white-cedar seedlings 

• may be close to proposed dunes trail 

• found on active back dunes adjacent to West Lake, northwest of 

former pit 

10 This document uses the terminology and rankings proposed by the OMNR (June 2006). Species’ status 

assessments are made provincially by COSSARO (Committee on the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario). 

The provincial “S-ranks” are assigned by the OMNR’s Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC). S1 – 

extremely rare in Ontario; S2 – very rare in Ontario; S3 – rare to uncommon in Ontario. 

11 Datum is NAD27. UTMs are not available for all species, and some require verification. 



2009

Plant and Seed Collection 

Plants may not be collected by anyone other than Ontario Parks staff unless they 

receive permission through a permit. Although there is currently no provincial policy for 

traditional plant collection by Aboriginal groups, this activity may be permitted in 

consultation with the zone ecologist. Seed collection for use outside the park for 

conservation purposes may be permitted on a case-by-case basis through consultation 

with the zone ecologist and the park superintendent until an Ontario Parks seed 

collection policy is approved. 

Seeds may be collected for use in propagation and planting within the park for 

restoration and naturalization purposes. Harvesting effort will be rotated and spread 

throughout the park. The amount of seed collected will be limited based on the species, 

and determined in consultation with the zone ecologist (OMNR, 2001). Records will be 

kept regarding: 

• The species and amount of seed harvested; 

• The location of harvesting; 

• The date of harvesting; 

• The destination of seed collected (OMNR, 2001). 

A park herbarium was established in 1976 by a summer student. Brownell (1999) noted 

several misidentifications, and recommended that the herbarium be organized and 

maintained to assist in botanical research in the park. Partners may be encouraged to 

do this work, such as students at Sir Sanford Fleming College. 

• Plant and seed collection must be approved through a permit or an 

agreement with an Aboriginal user 

• When seed is collected for use within the park records will be kept 

Natural Heritage Education 

An important part of the park’s mandate is to educate the public and foster an 

appreciation for the park’s natural values. Public education programs are also integral to 

fostering understanding, agreement, and compliance with the policies set out in this and 

other management plans. Signage may also be used to identify sensitive areas to the 

public. 

The park’s NHE program already includes several ecology themes. With regards to 

vegetation management, public education programs may include the following subjects: 

• Unique vegetation communities – focus on different types of communities found 

in dunes, their unique features and processes, and how we protect them 

• Threats from exotic species – what species are in the park, why we worry about 

them, what are appropriate control measures 

• Ecological processes in woodlands – how forest ecosystems function, the 

importance of downed woody debris, why we need people to be careful in 

woodlands 

When discussing plant and other species at risk with the public, park staff will continue to 

keep the locations of these species confidential in order to ensure their protection from 

illegal harvesting, damage from trampling, unapproved seed collection, and other 



2009

disturbances in accordance with the draft bulletin PM 11.03.02, Species At Risk 

Information Guidelines. 

• The NHE program should continue to include messages about vegetation 

stewardship 

3.3. Restoration Activities 

Due to its long history of human use, several areas of Sandbanks require restoration to 

enhance and protect natural features. This section deals with a range of restoration 

activities, listed in priority order based on urgency. Funding will be required through 

Ontario Parks or external agencies, but in some cases, volunteer help may be sufficient. 

Intensive restoration activities specific to the dunes, plantations, and agricultural lands 

are described in further detail in section 4.0, Vegetation Management Units and 

Implementation Schedules B and G. 

Development Zone Restoration 

Several areas of the Outlet campground require 

restoration to prevent further destruction of 

vegetation communities. The riparian ecosystem 

along the Outlet River supports many rare species 

and at least 3 species at risk, and the shoreline 

should be maintained in as natural a state as 

possible. Campsites along the river in Area B will be 

assessed, and those that are negatively affecting 

riparian communities will be removed and restored, 

as recommended in the park management plan. 

Vegetation destruction and 

erosion due to pedestrian traffic in 

Outlet campground. 

Complete vegetation destruction and erosion is apparent along the ridge between 

campsites 55 and 59 (see inset). The roots of several mature trees are completely 

exposed and at risk of damage. In order to allow this area to recover, a cedar rail fence 

should be constructed at the back of campsites 54 and 55, and a chipped path installed 

between the campsites to direct pedestrians. Native shrubs like Black and Flowering 

Raspberry and Prickly Gooseberry obtained from a local greenhouse supplying local 

native stock (Appendix C) can be planted to deflect traffic. All campsites should be 

monitored for similar signs of erosion and impact on 

the surrounding vegetation. 

Much of the panne habitat in the Outlet sector was 

lost when the parking lots were constructed. 

However, some panne communities and species 

remain in isolated areas beside the parking lots and 

road. These communities and species are currently 

threatened by excessive mowing, uncontrolled 

pedestrian traffic, and invasion by Scots Pine. Scots 

Pine should be removed from these areas and a fence 

erected immediately to protect the most intact panne 

remnant panne habitat near 

parking lots in Outlet sector 

areas. Highly degraded panne areas are good candidates for educational restoration 

projects, where mowing and trampling are limited. 



2009

• Habitat destruction in development zones will be assessed and mitigated 

where feasible. 

Sourcing Plant Stock for Landscaping and Restoration Planting 

To the extent possible, plants used in development zone landscaping and in restoration 

throughout the park will be propagated using seeds from the park, either by establishing 

a park nursery or through a partnership with a local nursery. Records are to be kept on 

amount of seed harvested, location, data, and destination. If this is not possible, plants 

should at least be of local (preferably Prince Edward County or south Northumberland, 

Hastings, and Lennox and Addington counties, or eastern Ontario) origin. These 

measures will help to ensure the continuation of plants that are specially adapted to the 

park’s environmental conditions. Appendix C lists local nurseries that may provide 

contract propagation or local native plant stock. 

Transplanting Marram Grass and other species may be done for restoration purposes. 

See section 4.1 for details on Marram Grass transplanting. 

• Local native stock will be used for all planting and restoration in the park. 

3.4. Invasive and Exotic Species 

Approximately 82 of 384, or 20%, of the known terrestrial plant species at Sandbanks 

are not native to Ontario. Of these, at least 36 species have the potential to become 

invasive 12 . Four in particular, Garlic Mustard, Dog-strangling Vine (or Pale 

Swallowwort), Common Buckthorn, and Purple Loosestrife, are already established in 

the park and need to be monitored and controlled (Appendix D – Invasive Species 

Monitoring and Control Guidelines). The park staff has recently initiated several 

monitoring and removal protocols for these species. White Sweet Clover may also be 

behaving as an invasive in the dune and panne communities, and its spread should be 

tracked. The SE Zone Invasive Exotic Plant Management Strategy provides further 

guidelines for managing these plants. 

Priorities for control at this point are those plants that are not yet widespread, or that are 

threatening significant natural areas: all patches of Dog-Strangling Vine, Garlic Mustard 

in the mature deciduous forest in Outlet Campground, and small buckthorn shrubs 

where they are becoming newly established. These species are known to spread 

quickly and exclude native vegetation if not controlled. Appendix E provides fact sheets 

for each species of concern and appropriate control measures. In many cases 

herbicides are the only option for effectively controlling established invasive species. 

The Invasive Species Strategy and Appendix E provide direction for the proper control 

techniques and use of herbicides. 

• Aggressive invasive species will be controlled when possible following 

approved guidelines. 

• Invasive species that may pose a threat to park environments will be 

monitored. 

12 

Invasive exotic plants are species not native to Ontario that have the potential to negatively impact native flora, fauna, 

and ecosystems, often by spreading and dominating habitat 



2009

The park staff has controlled Purple Loosestrife in the panne habitat near the Sandbanks 

Beach Day Use parking lot since 1990 in order to prevent its spread into this unique 

ecosystem. Anecdotal observations in other nearby similar natural areas suggest that 

Purple Loosestrife numbers eventually stabilize without control. Small test plots in which 

Purple Loosestrife is not removed have been established to document the true threat of 

this species at this site. If the results show that Purple Loosestrife is unlikely to spread 

into the pannes, time and resources can be devoted to controlling other species instead. 

• Test plots should continue to be monitored to determine the threat of 

Purple Loosestrife 

Many non-native species can exist in an area for several years before their populations 

increase dramatically. For this reason, park policy states that non-native tree or shrub 

species must not be used for landscaping or restoration. The use of non-native 

ornamental plants for gardening purposes near buildings should be stopped completely, 

or limited to species that cannot reproduce or spread in Ontario. 

• Many ornamental shrubs, periwinkle (myrtle), ground ivy, euphorbias, 

bellflower, orange day lily, and sweet violet must not be used in 

landscaping and will be removed where established. 



2009

4.0 Vegetation Management Units and Management Prescriptions 

The Vegetation Management Units (VMU) described in the following tables and shown in Figure 2 indicate where specific vegetation management prescriptions and techniques will be applied. The natural communities 

described in section 2, combined with existing park zoning and management requirements, form the basis for the VMU designations. These VMU have been assigned with the intent to provide protection to important 

natural values. In development zones, the protection of natural values will be balanced with the need for access, recreational uses, and operational facilities. Areas that do not require specific management actions have not 

been assigned to VMU and will be managed under the general policies outlined in section 3. 

Zones Management Objectives Management Guidelines Vegetation Communities Comments 

4.1. Beaches and Dunes 

• Outlet Dunes 

• Beach/Bar Ecosites 

(Natural Environment 

Zone) 

• Outlet Beach & 

Wellington Bay Day 

Use area 

(Development Zone) 

• West Lake Dunes 

(Nature Reserve Zone) 

• To maintain existing open 

dune, beach, and panne 

communities and their natural 

successional processes, and 

to restore these values where 

they have been degraded from 

past or current human impacts 

• To prevent further damage 

through the education of park 

visitors and the enforcement 

of current policies prohibiting 

certain activities in the dunes 

and on the beaches. 

• A complete dune management plan based on the most current scientific 

knowledge and research available is required to guide the management, 

restoration, and monitoring of the beach and dune environments in the park 

(see Section 8.0 for resources). 

• Recreational use should not be expanded in any of the dune areas until a dune 

management plan is completed. Efforts are needed to limit pedestrian traffic to 

a small number of defined trails. Laying down brush has been effective in 

preventing trampling at other dune sites and may be used at Sandbanks. Trails 

should use designs that have worked in other protected areas to limit the 

effects of erosion, and should not cause the destruction of any significant 

species. 

• Destabilized dunes, especially those encroaching on parking areas and other 

recreational facilities, will be the focus of restoration. Planting programs must 

be well-designed and use native stock only. Sandbanks currently has two 

Marram Grass nurseries 13 . 

• The beach-side campsites between sites 19 – 38 in Outlet Campground are 

causing vegetation destruction and subsequent foredune destabilization. The 

1993 management plan calls for the closure of these popular sites. Until 

detailed guidelines are provided, the installation of wooden posts in campsites 

on the foredune may help to control trampling, and planting beach grass on the 

windward side may help restore the dunes. 

• Sand Dune Ecosites 

• Meadow Marsh Ecosites 

(Pannes) 

• A dune management strategy is 

currently in preparation through an 

agreement with Wilfrid Laurier 

University. 

• The dune management strategy 

addresses: 

 

 

 

 

Appropriate recreational uses 

Mitigation of impacts from existing 

uses 

Guidelines for future uses 

Education 

4.2. Plantations 

• West Lake Plantation 

Dunes 


Zone) 

• Richardson 

Campground 


• To encourage succession to 

natural forest composition, 

while maintaining existing 

level of cover for stabilization, 

wildlife, and aesthetic 

purposes 

• To prevent invasion and 

spread of non-native tree 

species 

• A detailed prescription for renaturalizing the plantation areas and reducing fire 

risk will be developed with the assistance of relevant experts (Implementation 

Schedule B). This plan may recommend the use of prescribed burning. The 

prescription will address the problem of rapid die-back of trees due to Pine 

Shoot Beetle and other invasive non-native insects 

• Park staff will continue to monitor natural areas near plantations for recruitment 

of non-native species. Where cover of Scots Pine or Black Locust seedlings or 

saplings becomes substantial, young trees will be cut or girdled when possible. 

Cut material will be left in place. 

• All plantation ecosites • The large Scots Pine plantation in 

the West Lake Dunes sector is in 

poor health and has been affected 

by Pine Shoot Beetle. Diseased 

trees are dying, creating openings 

in the canopy and contributing 

organic matter to the soil; however, 

dieback may be occurring too 

quickly. 

13 A Marram Grass nursery of stock from Pinery Provincial Park was established in 2 plots, encompassing approximately 0.5 ha, in the West Lake Dunes in 1989. The Pinery stock was initially obtained from Michigan. There is concern that these plants may be 

geneticially different from the native Sandbanks stock, and may therefore weaken the local stock through cross-breeding. There is also some concern that the West Lake Dunes nurseries are affecting dune processes, although this has not been confirmed (Brownell 

1999). A nursery also exists on the tile bed next to the park store – these plants are used for restoration in the Outlet Dunes area. Although the history of this particular nursery is unclear, it is unlikely to be Pinery stock (Y. Bree, pers. comm.) 



2009

Zones Management Objectives Management Guidelines Vegetation Communities Comments 

4.3. Woodlands 

Forested sections of: 

• Woodlands Sector 


Zone) 

• Woodlands 

Campgrounds 


• Outlet Campground 


• West Point 

(Historic Zone) 

• Park Gate 


• To establish a continuous tract 

of woodland through the park 

• To protect and enhance native 

forest communities, 

maintaining natural ecological 

processes 

• No further development should be undertaken in this unit without a detailed life 

science inventory and ecological assessment. 

• When developments in this unit are approved, plant material and topsoil 

should be salvaged if possible to be used for restoration. 

• The 1993 Management Plan recommended a vegetation monitoring program 

be implemented in conjunction with the development of the new Woodlands 

Campground. Anecdotal evidence suggests that there has been a decrease 

in downed woody material (DWD) and forest understorey herbs in the mature 

woodlots since the installation of the campgrounds. The monitoring plan 

outlined in Appendix F will quantify changes in DWD and vegetation over time 

and space. Preliminary results show significant differences in the amount of 

DWD at 75 m away from campsites and within 25 m. These results highlight 

the importance of educating campers about the negative ecological impacts of 

collecting dead wood. It may be appropriate to enact a ban on collecting 

DWD in campgrounds in deciduous forests in the park. 

• Invasive species are a serious threat in this unit. Areas where the forest floor 

is intact and still has native flora are a priority for implementing the measures 

outlined in section 3.4. 

• Deciduous Forest 

Ecosites 

• Mixed Forest Ecosites 

• These areas are a priority for 

protection in the park. 

• In the long term, the restoration of 

agricultural areas adjacent to this 

unit will increase the extent and 

continuity of forest. 

4.4. Agricultural Lands 

Former & current open 

agricultural lands of: 

• MacDonald Farm 

(Historic Zone) 

• Woodlands/Agricultural 

Sector 


Zone) 

• To create more natural forest 

cover in formerly cultivated 

areas by implementing the 

park restoration strategy 

• To maintain historic landscape 

patterns of agriculture in the 

appropriate zones and areas 

• Restoration will not target any individual species, but will encourage habitat 

that supports a natural assemblage of wildlife 

• Restoration will be implemented following the development of a detailed 

restoration plan (Implementation Schedule G), based on the guiding 

strategies provided in the 2003 Vegetation Restoration Strategy (N-S 

Environmental) 

• Active Agricultural Lands 

• Retired Agricultural 

Lands 

• Hedgerows 

• The MacDonald Farm historic zone 

is intended to preserve historic 

planting and hedgerow patterns. 

The restoration will not affect the 

few remaining original hedgerows 

and fields as determined through 

analysis of aerial photography. 

• Woodlands 

Campground 




2009

5.0 Research and Monitoring Needs 

Several of the proposed management activities provide significant opportunities for 

research and monitoring. By monitoring the responses of the earliest phases of 

management activities, these activities can be modified to improve their results through 

an adaptive management process. 

Specific management activities and responses that should be monitored are listed 

below. Park staff or external researchers can work with the zone ecologist to develop 

appropriate monitoring protocols if they are not provided in this document. 

• Removal of non-native conifers from plantations has the potential to have adverse 

impacts. Site disturbance may stimulate growth of undesirable species, which may 

inhibit the regeneration of desirable species (Implementation Schedule B) 

• Experimental control of non-native invasive plants should be conducted in a way that 

allows the success of control techniques to be assessed, and to determine the rate of 

spread of invasive species (Appendix D) 

• The impact of Woodlands Campground on the native understorey in the surrounding 

forest needs to be assessed (Appendix F) 

• Restoration of damaged vegetation communities in Outlet Campground should be 

periodically monitored. 

• Restoration of former field areas (Implementation Schedule G). Monitoring needs are 

also detailed in North-South Environmental’s 2003 Vegetation Restoration Strategy. 

Research and monitoring needs will be promoted to other agencies and institutions 

whenever possible. When research is conducted in partnership with other agencies or 

institutions, research permits will require that summaries of findings or copies of final 

publications be provided to park and zone staff. 



2009

6.0 Funding/Linkages 

The projects identified in this plan will require external funding and partnerships in order 

to be successfully implemented. Park staff will work in cooperation with zone staff to 

identify appropriate experts and partners. Specific management activities requiring 

partner support include: 

• Plantation management – tree removal 

• Plantation management – underplanting with native species 

• Invasive species control (where cutting or pulling are appropriate measures) 

• Agricultural Area restoration – seed collection and propagation 

• Agricultural Area restoration – seed and seedling planting 

Potential partner organizations include the Friends of Sandbanks, the Prince Edward 

County Field Naturalists, the Prince Edward County Stewardship Council, Sir Sanford 

Fleming College, as well as various local school groups. Niagara College runs an 

internship program for the graduates of their Ecosystem Restoration program. Should 

funding become available individuals from this program may be interested in carrying out 

proposed restoration activities. 

There are many sources of funding that are available to non-governmental 

organizations. Partners may be used to obtain funding from these sources for park 

management activities. A list of possible funding sources is available from SE Zone. 

7.0 Summary of Public Consultation and Environmental Assessment 

Requirements for Implementation 

As directed by Provincial Park Policy PM 11.03.01 and the Class Environmental 

Assessment for Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves (MNR 2005), public 

consultation is an important part of the vegetation stewardship planning and 

implementation process. The projects described within this strategy are Category “A” or 

“B” projects under the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Parks and 

Conservation Reserves. In April 2008 stakeholders and local residents were notified by 

mail that the draft plan was available for review, a paid advertisement appeared in the 

local newspaper, and the plan was posted on the Ontario Parks website. Following the 

release of the notices and draft document there was a 45-day review and comment 

period. No comments were received. 

The release of the approved Sandbanks Vegetation Management Plan was announced 

in September 2009. The approved plan was made available by 

download from the Ontario Parks’ website: 

http://www.ontarioparks.com/english/invit.html, or by request for printed copies. A project 

evaluation and statement of completion were prepared for those projects that are 

screened as Category “B”. 



2009

8.0 General References and Resources 

Bellhouse, T. and B. Naylor. 1996. The Ecological Function of Down Woody Debris in 

the Forest of Central Ontario. Version 2.0. Ontario Ministry of Natural 

Resources, CRST Technical Report No. 43, revised. 29 pp. 

Brownell, V.R. 1999. Significant Plant Species Inventory of Sandbanks Provincial Park. 

Ontario Parks, South Eastern Zone, Kingston. 

Chapman, L.J. and D. F. Putnam. 1984. The Physiography of Southern Ontario. 

3 rd Edition. Ontario Geological Survey. 270 pp. 

Crabe, T., R. Bonenberg, and R. Klinkenberg. 1988. Pinery Provincial Park Resource 

Management Strategy. Pinery Provincial Park, Wingham District, Southwestern 

Region, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 

Crins, B. Personal Communication. 2003. Senior Conservation Ecologist. Ontario 

Parks. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 

Crins, W.J. 2002. Ecozones, ecoregions and ecodistricts of Ontario. Queens 

Printer for Ontraio. 

Czerwinski, E. Personal Communication. 2004 – 2006. Forest Health Technician. 

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 

Davis, R. 2006. Fire Management Direction for Park Plans. February 2006. 

Draft. Planning and Research Section, Ontario Parks. 

Ecological Services. 1999. Sandbanks Provincial Park Wildlife Inventory. Ontario 

Parks, South Eastern Zone, Kingston. 

Farrar, J. L. 1996. Trees in Canada. Canadian Forest Service. Natural 

Resources Canada. 

Geomatics International Inc. 1995. Management options for old-field sites in 

Southern Ontario. Guidelines and literature review. Southern Region 

Science and Technology Transfer Unit Technical Report TR-009. 17 pp. + 

4 appendices. 

Havinga, D. & Ontario Invasive Plants Working Group 2000. Sustaining 

Biodiveristy, A Strategic Plan for Managing Invasive Plants in Southern 

Ontario. 

Lee, H., W. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P. Uhlig, and S. McMurray. 

1998. Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation 

and its Application. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, North Bay. 



2009

Norris, T. and D. Cuddy. 1990. An Evaluation of the Life Science Resources of 

Sandbanks Provincial Park. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Kemptville. 

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. 1990. Sandbanks Provincial Park Management 

Planning Background Information and Issues. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. 

OMNR. 1993. Sandbanks Provincial Park Management Plan. Queen’s Printer for 

Ontario. 

OMNR. 2000 a . A Silvicultural Guide to Managing Southern Ontario’s Forests. 

Version 1.1. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Queens Printer for 

Ontario. Toronto. 684 pp. 

OMNR. 2000 b . Conserving the Forest Interior: A Threatened Wildlife Habitat. 

Extension Note. Produced by the Land Owner Resource Center and 


OMNR. 2001. Rondeau Provincial Park Vegetation Management Plan. Queen’s Printer 

for Ontario. 

OMNR. 2003. Beattie Pinery Vegetation Stewardship Plan. Ontario Ministry of 

Natural Resources. 

OMNR. 2004b. Fire Management Policy for Provincial Parks and Conservation 

Reserves. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Directive No. FM 2:12, 

PM 11.03.03, PL 3.03.09. 

OMNR. 2004 a . Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario Ont. Min. Nat. Res., 

Queens Printer for Ontario, Toronto. 64 p. 

OMNR. 2006. Bronte Creek Provincial Park Vegetation Management Plan. draft. 

Snetsinger, M.A., R. Snetsinger, D. Kristensen, and I.D. Macdonald. 2001 (Draft). Life 

Science Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest in Site District 6E-15: A Review 

and Assessment of Significant Natural Areas in Site District 6E-15. Ontario 

Ministry of Natural Resources, Kingston. 

OMNR. 1995 a . Clearing the Way: Preparing the Site for Tree Planting. 

Extension Note. Produced by the LandOwner Resource Center and the 


OMNR. 1999. Management Options for Abandoned Farm Fields. OMNR. 

Extension Note. Produced by the Land Owner Resource Center. With 

support from the Natural Heritage Information Center and Ontario 

Ministry of Natural Resources. 

OMNR. 1999 a . Restoring Old-Growth Features to Managed Forests in Southern 

Ontario. OMNR Extension Note. Produced by the Landowner Resource 

Center. With support from Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and 

Eastern Ontario Model Forest. 



2009

OMNR. 2000. Careful Handling and Planting of Nursery Stock. OMNR. 

Extension Note. Produced by the Land Owner Resource Center and 


OMNR. 2004b. Fire Management Policy for Provincial Parks and Conservation 

Reserves. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Directive No. FM 2:12, 

PM 11.03.03, PL 3.03.09. 

OMNR. 2004 a . Forest Fire Management Strategy for Ontario Ont. Min. Nat. Res., 

Queens Printer for Ontario, Toronto. 64 p. 

OMNR.2005. Springwater Vegetation Stewardship Plan. Ontario Ministry of 

Natural Resources. 

OMNR. n.d. Managing regeneration in conifer plantations to restore a mixed 

Hardwood forest. Produced by the Landowner Resource Center, with support 

from Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Eastern Ontario Model Forest. 

OMNR. n.d. a . Do you have a healthy woodlot? OMNR Extension Note. 

Produced by the LandOwner Resource Center. With support form the 

Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Upper Thames Conservation 

Authority. 

Ostry, M.E., Mielke, M.E., and Skilling, D.D. 1994. Butternut Strategies for 

Managing a Threatened Tree. Gen. Tech. Rep. NC—165. St. Paul, MN: 

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest 

Experiment Station. 7p. 

Rodger, L. 1998. Tallgrass Communities of Southern Ontario: A Recovery Plan. 

Report prepared for World Wildlife Fund Canada and the Ontario Ministry 

of Natural Resources. 

TGO, 2001. Fire and the Prairie. Fact Sheet. Tallgrass Ontario, Ontario 

Tallgrass Prairie and Savanna Association. 

Undersander, D., M. Casler and D. Cosgrove. 1996. Identifying pasture grasses. 

University of Wisconsin Extension. A3637 

Van Sleeuwen, M. 2006. Natural fire regimes in Ontario. Ontario Ministry of 

Natural Resources Queen’s Printer for Ontario, Toronto. 145p 



2009

APPENDIX A – Hazardous Tree Treatment Options 

Hazardous tree removal is restricted to development and historical zones, along 

roadsides, and along trails in natural environment and nature reserve zones. The 

following treatment options should be considered in the order given. Assessment of 

hazardous trees will be done by the park superintendent or designate. 

1. No action required 

No action is required for trees if they are: 

• Dead or living trees that are leaning away from trails, roadways, or facilities, 

provided the upturned root mass will not cause damage to trails or roads 

• Trees within naturalization areas of development zones that do not pose a risk to 

trail, roadways, or facilities outside the naturalization area 

2. Thinning of crown 

A hazardous tree may be treated by removal of selected limbs in the crown (thinning) 

when the trunk and base is sound and: 

• The tree has a slight lean or shows signs of shifting (heaving or cracking of soil). 

Removing part or all of the crown will reduce its weight and the stress on the 

lower trunk and roots 

• Weakness and rot is restricted to the upper crown/limbs 

• Limbs are interfering with power lines of buildings 

3. Cut top and upper limbs leaving bare trunk 

Trim back the crown and limbs to the main trunk(s) and limbs, relieving stress on the 

root system and reducing the possibility of the tree falling while leaving valuable wildlife 

habitat. Document the location of these trees and inspect annually. Use this method 

when: 

• The tree is located in a campground and day use areas and has significant rot or 

weakness in the crown or upper limbs but sound trunk and base. 

• Rot is present in the trunk, but enough sound wood is left to support a bare trunk. 

• The tree is a softwood or crotched oak. 

4. Felling 

Felling of a hazardous tree is the final recourse when options 1 to 3 are not adequate to 

ensure the safety of park users and facilities. Complete removal is necessary only 

when: 

• The base will not provide support to a bare trunk 

• The tree is leaning such that the root system will not be able to support it, or a 

hazard is created by the uplifted roots 

• There is substantial cracking in the trunk, indicating that the tree will likely fall 

due to wind or to ice accumulation 

• When limbing or crown removal is not safe for the cutter/feller or park staff 

Unless they obstruct a roadway, trail, or facility or create a safety hazard, felled trees 

should be left in place. 

Sandbanks Vegetation Management Plan A-1 


2009

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE B – Plantation Renaturalization Plan 

Background and Site Description 

The West Lake Dunes were naturally forested until around 1850. Timber cutting and cattle 

grazing concentrated in the late 1800s destabilized the dunes and caused their migration 

inland. Some large cedar skeletons in the northwest portion of the plantation remain as 

evidence of this history. The area originally known as Sandbanks Provincial Park was 

established as a forestry station in 1921. Reforestation of the eastern portion of this sector 

from the 1930s to the 1960s prevented further migration of the dunes, but the unforested 

parts of the dunes remain active. The core plantation area covers approximately 80 

hectares, with 25% of that south of the road in the Richardson Campground area. This plan 

refers specifically to the plantation in the natural environment zone on the north side of the 

road. 

The entire plantation area is extremely patchy. Most of the area was planted in Scots Pine, 

with scattered individuals or patches of Jack Pine, Mugho Pine, Eastern White Pine, 

European Larch, Red Pine, Norway Spruce, and Black Locust. Large Cottonwoods are also 

present throughout, although it is not clear if these were planted. Some areas appear older 

than others, spacings vary, and the condition and size of the trees is very variable. The 

largest Scots Pines are approximately 20 – 29 cm diameter at breast height (dbh), although 

most trees are less than 15 cm dbh. In some sections where the Scots Pine have done well 

and are quite tall (> 10 m height), they are surprisingly straight and are perhaps marketable 

(although there is very low volume present). Most Scots Pine are unhealthy due to a 

number of factors including poor site quality, Pine Shoot Beetle, and Sirex Wood Wasp. 

Some Black Locust also appear unhealthy. 

Similarly, the understorey and ground cover are variable: in sections of dense pine, there is 

almost no understorey or ground layer of vegetation. In more patchy or open areas, young 

Scots Pine, White Pine, willows, Eastern White Cedar, Chokecherry, and White Birch have 

established to a limited extent. In the most open areas, aggressive pioneer species 

dominate. 

Deciduous species are moving into the edges of the plantation. In particular, the west side 

of the plantation is quite diverse and a variety of deciduous trees and shrubs are present. 

This area does not require active restoration. 

The entire site is ecologically fragile: the substrate is almost pure sand with a thin layer of 

organic material that is mainly composed of pine needles; many areas are diseased; and 

invasive or aggressive species other than Scots Pine are scattered throughout. 

Fire is a concern at this site. The increasing volume of standing dead timber and downed 

woody debris, as well as the extremely dry conditions, make the site vulnerable to fire. 

Unlike other types of areas requiring restoration in southern Ontario, fire will not enhance 

this site – it will destroy the very thin layer of soil and duff present and create open 

conditions too quickly to allow for renaturalization. 

The area is of unknown value to wildlife. The dense conifer areas likely provide winter cover 

to deer and other species. At least one canid den has been found in the plantation. Forest 

Bird Monitoring has not revealed any notable species and bird species diversity is relatively 

low. Hawks (Sharp-shinned, Coopers) have occasionally nested in the plantation in the 

past, and Wild Turkeys are often seen. 



2009


Norway Spruce Stand 

The 2 ha stand of Norway Spruce is very dense, with almost no light reaching the forest 

floor and therefore no natural infiltration of deciduous species. It does, therefore, provide 

winter cover for wildlife. Tree diameters and spacing are quite variable. Diameters range 

from approximately 10 – 20 cm, and spacings range from 1 – 2 m. Most trees, while in good 

health and very straight, have very small crowns (< 30% of height). These trees may be 

marketable, although the area is quite small and will not produce substantial yields. 

Restoration and Management Goals 

Plantation management for conversion to more natural conditions is a fairly new science, 

and it is essential that an adaptive management approach be used. Methods applied in 

other plantations may not work at Sandbanks due to unique site conditions. Also, due to the 

extensive nature of the Scots Pine plantation, it must be accepted that Scots Pine and other 

non-native tree species may never be completely eradicated. Therefore, the overarching 

goal for management of the plantation at Sandbanks is to maintain and enhance 

healthy ecological processes. This includes: 

• encouraging the establishment and spread of self-sustaining native species 

• preventing the loss of soil cover and destabilization of sand 

• promoting natural succession 

• discouraging the establishment of new invasive species 

• ensuring the safety of park visitors and staff 

The composition of the forested dunes in the Outlet Sector provides an idea of what the 

dunes at West Lake might have looked like before they were logged. However, the 

plantation is unique in that the sand substrate recently moved into the area from the West 

Lake dunes, and the site was originally similar to the surrounding agricultural and woodlot 

area. 

Restoration and management of this plantation should be considered successful if the site 

eventually supports a diversity of self-sustaining native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants 

that are able to withstand the harsh environmental conditions of the site. Such a scenario 

will undoubtedly include non-native species, but as long as they play a positive ecological 

role, they will not detract from the overall goal. 

Priorities and Recommendations 

Management recommendations have been discussed with forestry specialists and Ontario 

Parks staff, and are listed below. Park staff are currently working with fire specialists to 

develop recommendations for reducing the fire hazard and promoting restoration of the 

plantation. 

Monitoring 

• Monitoring is an essential component of any restoration project, especially when using 

adaptive management. Park staff have noticed marked changes in the plantation in the 

past 15 years, and more changes are expect to occur naturally and as management 

actions are implemented. 

• Areas where restoration is planned should be monitored first to determine species 

composition and help determine appropriate restoration goals. 



2009


• A photographic monitoring program should be established immediately. Stations should 

be selected along the trails through the plantation in each unique area (i.e. each area 

showing different stand conditions) – approximately 20 – 30 stations. At each station, 

the GPS coordinates should be recorded, the location should be pinpointed on a 

topographic map, and high quality landscape photographs should be taken in all four 

directions. The canopy, subcanopy, understorey, and ground layers in each photo 

should be described. This photographic monitoring should take place in mid-summer to 

capture the deciduous and herbaceous growth. 

Dead Stands 

• Several sections of Scots Pine have succumbed to Pine Shoot Beetle within the past 5 – 

10 years and have died quickly and fallen. This has occurred on both sides of the main 

road, and these guidelines should be applied in both areas. 

• Conditions vary in these recently opened areas, but for the most part, the understorey 

layer is dominated by aggressive pioneer species like raspberries, Common Buckthorn, 

and Poison Ivy. Black Locust and Scots Pine have also been noted regenerating in 

these areas. 

• In these areas, downed woody debris will contribute to the development of soil. 

• Eastern White Cedar saplings or seedlings can be planted in these areas to encourage 

succession to a more natural community. Saplings will require mulching around them or 

other active management to prevent competition from more aggressive species. 

Planting should be throughout opened areas and approximately 10 – 20 m into the 

edges of the surrounding living plantation. 

Open Areas 

• In some upland areas, the harsh conditions make it difficult to sustain a healthy tree 

cover, and there are patches of bare sand. These areas are visible in recent aerial 

photography. 

• In these areas, the planted trees appear stunted and their roots are visible above the dry 

sand. These areas are fragile, and will be vulnerable to destabilization if the trees die. 

• One option is to plant Marram Grass in these open areas in order to stabilize the sand. 

Marram Grass is adapted to open dune conditions of wind and unstable sand and may 

not thrive in these conditions. If this management approach is attempted, its results 

should be thoroughly documented. 

• Seed from shrubs in the West Lake Dunes that are well-adapted to harsh conditions 

(e.g. Heart-leaved Willow, Sand Cherry) can also be collected and planted in these 

areas. 

Norway Spruce 

• If the Norway Spruce area is no longer required for wildlife cover, it will need to be 

thinned to encourage establishment of native species. 

• Creating small canopy gaps is the preferred option for renaturalizing conifer plantations; 

however, this method is not logistically feasible because the trees are so tall and tightly 

spaced. Instead, sections of rows should be thinned. 

• The initial thinning should aim to remove roughly 30% of the trees as illustrated above. 

Thinning should avoid opening up the edge of the stand, as this will promote the 

invasion of weedy species. 

• The thinned areas will need to be underplanted with seedlings or seeds of the desired 

species (Sugar Maple, White Ash) due to the lack of adjacent seed sources and 

opportunities for natural dispersal into the site. Seeds may be collected within the park. 



2009


• Additionally, it is important to establish key desired species in order to discourage 

invasion by unwanted species, which abound in the surrounding area (e.g. Scots Pine, 

Common Buckthorn). 

• Alternatively, thinning can begin in patches near the edges of the area adjacent to mixed 

forest to allow seeds to infiltrate naturally. 

• This treatment should be repeated on a 10 year cycle or at an interval that is appropriate 

for the rate of renaturalization that takes place. This treatment will also be sufficient to 

reduce fire risk. 



2009

APPENDIX C – Local Native Plant Sources 

The following list of suppliers was extracted from the 2004-2005 Native Plant Resource 

Guide for Ontario, produced by the Ontario Chapter of the Society for Ecological 

Restoration (SER). All suppliers listed below are either from a certified source as 

designated by Ontario’s Natural Selections, or follow the SER’s guidelines for native 

plant stock. Businesses marked with an asterisk do contract growing. Suppliers marked 

with an asterisk do custom seed collection. 

Sandbanks is situated in Zone 36 of the Tree Seed Zones of Southern Ontario as 

designated by OMNR in 1996, and Canadian Plant Hardiness Zone 5b (2000). 

Arboretum, The 

Chalk Lake Greenhouses 

University of Guelph 

RR#4 Uxbridge ON 

Guelph, ON 

(905) 649-5284 

K1G 2W1 

galloway.family@sympatico.ca 

(519)824-824-4120 

arboretu@uoguelph.ca 

Limited quantities and only sell at annual 

plant sale. 

Ferguson Forest Centre 

275 County Rd. 44 

Kemptville, ON 

K0G 1J0 

1-888-791-1103 

info@seedlingnursery.com 

www.seedlingnursery.com 

seedling orders 

Glorious Gardens* 

Kingston, ON 

(613) 531-2797 rosemary_hill@hotmail.com 

*will collect seeds 

Kimdale Lane Tree Nursery 

Lindsay 

(705) 324-0479 

carl.kimmett@sympatico.ca 

Peterborough Ecology Park 

Peterborough 

(705) 745-3238 

www.greenup.on.ca 

consulting 

The Old Field Garden & Wildflower 

Nurserv 

2935 Porter Rd. R.R. 1 

Oxford Station, ON 

K0G 1T0 

(613) 258-7945 

Oldfieldgarden@sympatico.ca 

www.oldfieldgarden.on.ca 

on site consulting for restoration 

work/design services 

Gardens North* 

North Gower, ON 

(613) 489-0065 

seed@gardensnorth.com 

Holloway Farms 

Stirling, ON 

(613) 395-6120 

edheuvel@attcanada.net 

consulting/restoration 

Moonlight Crofters Heritage Trees 

Douglas, ON 

1-888-291-4799 

heritagetrees@on.aibn.com 

consulting/restoration 

Stewartville Tree Nursery 

White Lake, ON 

(613) 623-0548 

info@prevland.com 

specializes in large scale plantations 



2009

APPENDIX D – Invasive Species Monitoring and Control Guidelines 

Monitoring and control of invasive species should follow the guidelines provided in the 

SE Zone Invasive Exotic Plant Management Toolkit. These activities should be reported 

on the forms provided in the toolkit. 

Nine species are considered invasive or potentially invasive at Sandbanks. Updated 

recommendations for the 5 most invasive species at Sandbanks are summarized below. 

The other species are Rugosa Rose (Rosa rugosa), Rambler Rose (Rosa multiflora), 

European Frogbit (Hydrocharis morsis-ranae), and Eurasian milfoil (Myriophyllum 

spicatum). The two rose species are not likely acting as invasives and do not require 

formal monitoring. Control of the aquatic species is unlikely to be successful. 

GARLIC MUSTARD 

Priority for Removal 

Location and Abundance 

Actions taken to date 

Control and Research 

Needs 

DOG-STRANGLING 

VINE 





Needs 

COMMON BUCKTHORN 





Needs 

PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE 





Needs 

High priority in less disturbed areas and in one area of Outlet 

Campground A 

Outlet River Campground Areas A & B and several other 

locations 

Hand-pulling, cutting, spraying with glyphosate, brush 

blankets 

Mechanical methods only in wildflower area of campground 

Experimental application of control methods should continue 

to be monitored for success 

High in all locations 

Limited to a few areas, especially Lakeshore Lodge area, 

but spreading 

Hand-pulling, cutting, spraying with glyphosate 

Glyphosate is likely only successful method, but flowering 

plants should at least be cut 

Medium 

Throughout – most common in old field areas 

Mapping 

Removal should coincide with old field restoration 

Medium 

East Lake and West Lake wetlands 

Hand-pulling in pannes since 1990, and a no-control area 

established 2003 

If plants do not invade the no-control area within 5-10 years, 

control efforts may be reduced 

WHITE SWEET 

CLOVER 



Medium 

Becoming more abundant in disturbed areas of West Lake 



2009

APPENDIX D – Invasive Species Monitoring and Control Guidelines 



Needs 

pannes 

None 

Hand pulling and monitoring of invasion and effectiveness of 

control 



2009

APPENDIX E – Invasive Species Information Sheets 

Garlic Mustard 

Mustard Family 

Alliaria petiolata (M. Bieb.) Cavara and Grande 

Brassicaceae 

Common Names 

In North America, Garlic Mustard is the only common named used. Common names 

used for this species in England include; Hedge-garlic, Sauce-alone, Jack-by-the-Hedge, 

and Poor-man’s-mustard. 

Distribution 

Introduced from Britain, Belgium, and The Netherlands, and is native to Europe, 

commonly occurring south of 68º, and absent from the extreme south. This species also 

occurs in North Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and has spread to both North America and New 

Zealand. 

In Ontario, Garlic Mustard is established in the St. Lawrence- Great Lakes Deciduous 

Forest Region, and is most abundant in south western Ontario and in the Ottawa region. 

In the last 25 years, Garlic Mustard has spread to the Canadian Shield, and is now 

common in deciduous woods on the Shield. 

In SEZ parks, Garlic Mustard is known to occur in Charleston, Murphy’s Point, 

Sandbanks, Presqu’ile, Voyageur, Darlington and Petroglyphs. 

Biology and Ecology 

General Description: Garlic Mustard is a true biennial herb, and therefore completes its 

life cycle in two years. In the first year, basal rosettes develop, and are recognizable by 

June. The rosettes over winter and mature the following spring. Adult plants can grow to 

1.9 metres in height, and the plant averages one metre at the time of flowering. 

Leaves: Basal leaves are kidney-shaped with scalloped edges, and 6-10 cm in 

diameter. Stem leaves are alternate, sharply toothed, triangular, and are 3-8 cm long, 

becoming smaller toward the top of the stem. Petioles are pubescent and 1-5 cm long. 

Both the basal and stem leaves have a strong garlic odour when crushed, but the scent 

becomes weaker as the season progresses, and the scent is absent by fall. 

Flowers: Flowers are 6-7 mm in diameter, and consist of 4 white petals that narrow at 

the base. Six stamens are present, with two of the stamens shorter than the other four. 

Fruit: Fruit capsule 2.5-6 cm long and 2mm wide. Each plant produces an average of 4- 

16 capsules, with each capsule producing 10-20 seeds. The seeds are 3mm long and 

1mm wide and are black and diagonally ridged. Seeds are dispersed from mid June to 

September, and generally fall within a few metres of the parent plant. 

Similar species: May be confused with other rosette forming species, especially Viola 

spp. (violets). The strong odour can help distinguish Garlic Mustard from other species. 

The garlic odour is strongest in spring. 

Habitat: Garlic Mustard can be found in open forests, and edge habitats, as well as 

under isolated conifer trees. Garlic Mustard can also grow in full sun and full shade, but 

grows best in semi-shaded areas. As a disturbance adapted plant, Garlic Mustard is 

most commonly found in areas of repeated disturbance, and will stabilize when the 



2009


disturbance is no longer present. For this reason, campgrounds often have an extremely 

high abundance of Garlic Mustard, as visitors are continually disturbing the soils. 

Dispersal: Garlic Mustard is spread primarily by humans, including clothing, hair, shoes, 

and by vehicles. It is not known if rodents and birds disperse this species, although 

isolated plants have been found in forest interiors. This species does not appear to be 

wind dispersed, and the seeds do not float well. Garlic Mustard has an ‘advance-retreat’ 

spread pattern. Nuzzo (2000) noted one colony increased by 36 m one year, and 

decreased by 18 m the next. Colonies tend to advance outward and join up with satellite 

colonies to form a massive colony. 

Potential Threats to Native Flora and Fauna 

There has been limited research studying the community dynamics of Garlic Mustard. It 

is assumed that Garlic Mustard outcompetes native ground flora, as invaded sites 

frequently have lower species diversity than similar sites that have not been invaded 

(Nuzzo, 2000; White, 1993). In a study by Faulkner (1996) at Point Pelee National Park 

and Rondeau Provincial Park, species diversity and richness was very similar in 

quadrats with and without Garlic Mustard at Point Pelee. However, at Rondeau, where 

Garlic Mustard is a recent invasion, species diversity and richness was lower in quadrats 

with Garlic Mustard than in quadrats with no Garlic Mustard. Falkenberg (1996) believes 

that this may be a result of Garlic Mustard invaded areas where native species were 

already suppressed due to overgrazing by deer. Bazely (2002) has observed an 

increase in native species diversity in Rondeau Provincial Park after White-tailed Deer 

numbers were reduced. White-tailed deer do not appear to browse Garlic Mustard, and 

overgrazing of native species may allow Garlic Mustard to invade these disturbed areas. 

Garlic Mustard may pose a threat to some species of butterflies, including the West 

Virginia White (P. virginiensis), a species ranked S3 and Vulnerable by COSSARO. 

Larvae oviposited on Garlic Mustard die off before development is completed (Nuzzo, 

2000). 

Control Methods 

• Mechanical control of this species has had mixed results. Cutting plants at ground 

level appears to be the most successful mechanical control method. Cut flowering 

plants can result in a 99% mortality rate. Cutting above ground level is not as 

successful: Nuzzo (2000) found that stems cut 10 cm above the ground resulted in a 

71% mortality rate. Plants should be cut just before flowering. This plant should 

never be pulled. Pulling is generally not effective, and can result in more vigorous 

growth due to the soil disturbance and root fragments left in the ground (Murphy, 

2003; Lamb, 2003). 

• Chemical control using Glyphosate has proved successful. Nuzzo (2000) found that 

using glyphosate at concentrations of 1, 2, and 3% reduced cover by > 95%. Cover 

may be reduced further with higher concentrations. Fall is the preferred time of year 

for chemical control, as native plants are dormant, and the herbicide will not be 

present in the soil during the growing season. If it is not feasible to apply the 

herbicide in the fall, it may be applied in early spring. 



2009


• Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) can co-exist, and may even outcompete Garlic 

Mustard. Plant in nodes – will take 5 – 10 years to fill in. Can be used as a control 

method, or planted after control 

measures 

carried out. 



2009


White Sweet Clover 

Pea Family 

Melilotus alba 

Fabaceae 

Alternate Common Name(s) 

N/A 

Distribution 

Native to Eurasia, White Sweet Clover was first introduced in the 1600’s and later became a 

valuable forage crop and soil nutrient builder. It is also an import species for honey farmer, 

the genus name coming from the Greek word meli which means honey. It is distributed 

throughout temperate North America. 

In SEZ parks, White Sweet Clover occurs in most parks, but is considered a concern due to 

its invasiveness into significant habitat in Sandbanks and Peter’s Woods. 


General Description: White Sweet Clover can grow up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) in height and 

have alternately arranged leaves with finely toothed leaf margins. Flowers are white in 

colour and are arranged in clusters on a central stem. 

Leaves: alternate, compound, trifoliolate, finely toothed leaf margins, 4 to 5 mm long, 

smooth or few sparse hairs on leaf bottom, leafstalk up to 2 mm long on lateral leaflet and 5 

to 6 mm on terminal leaflet. 

Flowers: late spring to fall with white petals in long, slender and spike-like clusters. 

Seeds: Annual to biennial, egg shaped. A single plant can produce 14K to 350K 

seeds/plant and seeds can remain in seed bank for decades before germinating. 

Similar Species 

M. officinalis (Yellow Sweet Clover) looks much like M. alba however M. officinalis has 

yellow flowers and flowers earlier in season. 

Habitat: Broad range of habitat types and is capable of withstanding sever drought and 

cold conditions. Commonly found in abandoned fields and along roadsides with direct or 

partial sunlight. Also occurs in lowland sites of mountain brush and aspen woodlands. 

Gravel to sandy soils that are calcareous though highest abundances occur on rich loams 

and clay loams. 

Dispersal: Can travel short distances by wind and large distances can be facilitated 

through water movement. 

Potential Threat to Native Flora and Fauna 

White Sweet Clover readily invades open areas. Their size, growth rate and ability to 

withstand a wide variety of environmental conditions allow them to restrict a wide variety of 

species. They are most problematic in prairies, alvars, natural meadows, and savannas 

(Cole, 1991b; botanist survey). 

Control Strategies 



2009


White Sweet clover is a very difficult plant to control however as it does not spread 

vegetatively, restricting seed formation can allow for successful management (Cole, 1991). 

This can be accomplished through cutting of flowering plants and hand removal techniques 

performed for several consecutive years. Prescribed burning may also be used. 

• If a prescribed burn is to be used, managers need to consider the likelihood of 

cancellation of later burns as burns that are only performed periodically can actually 

cause the population to grow in size. In order for this technique to be successful 

managers need to burn early in spring followed by herbicide applications or physical 

removal techniques later in the fall. Do not use prescribed burns late in the fall as 

this has been shown to stimulate the growth of dormant seeds (Environment 

Canada, 2003). 

• Cutting of flowering plants and hand pulling should focus on first-year plants. The 

physical removal of plants should be performed in late fall or early spring and cutting 

should be performed before flowers develop. 

• If herbicides are used the effects to native species needs to be considered. 

• Biological control methods such as the use of Sweet Clover Weevil have so far 

proven to be ineffective. 

Trifoliolate leaf 

Spike-like clusters 



2009


Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica L. 

Glossy Buckthorn 

Rhamnus frangula 

Buckthorn Family 

Rhamnaceae 

Alternate Common Name 

European Buckthorn 

Distribution 

Native to most of Europe, and west and north Asia. 

In Ontario, Buckthorn is found east and south west of the Canadian Shield. 

In SEZ, Buckthorn is known to occur in Peter’s Woods, Fitzroy, Sandbanks, Presqu’ile, 

Darlington, Voyageur, Charleston Lake, Murphys Point, Burntlands, Emily, and Menzel. 


Brackets indicate Glossy Buckthorn features where they differ from Common Buckthorn. 

General Description: Shrub or small tree, up to 6 m in height. Branches spine tipped (No 

spine). Branchlets are stout and purplish-red or grey-brown (brown to gray with pale 

lenticels). Leaves persist throughout the winter. 

Leaves: Leaves up to 8 cm long and 4 cm wide, and generally opposite, but can be subopposite 

or alternate. Elliptic to ovate leaves have a shiny appearance and fold slightly 

along the midrib near the tip (Do not fold). Strongly curved veins. Leaf margin toothed. (Leaf 

margins wavy). 

Flowers: Less than 6 mm in diameter, greenish yellow. Found in dense clusters in the leaf 

axils. Early June. 

Fruit: Three – four seeds in a berry-like drupe. Clustered fruit turns black when ripe in 

August or September. 

Similar species: The native Buckthorn, Alder-leaved Buckthorn (Rhamnus alnifolia), has 

much narrower leaves, has no thorns, and, as the name implies, looks more like an alder 

species. 

Habitat: Common Buckthorn found in dry to moist habitats, especially open areas and 

successional forests (Soper and Heimburger, 1982). Glossy Buckthorn prefers wetter and 

more acidic soils. Buckthorn does not do well in deep shade, and colonies are often evenaged, 

as seedlings cannot grow under shade of mature plants. 

Dispersal: Dispersed by birds, mice and possibly by members of the deer family. Seed may 

also be water dispersed, as the dry fruit of Common Buckthorn can float for 6 days and seed 

for 3 days before sinking, while the fresh fruit of Glossy Buckthorn can float for 19 days, and 

dry seeds for one week (Converse, 1984). This is significant for populations found along 

waterways, or areas that are seasonally flooded (Converse, 1984). 

Potential Threats to Native Flora and Fauna 



2009


Buckthorn can change the soil acidity and profile. This is a concern in areas where the soil is 

very thin, such as alvar communities (Murphy, 2003; Lamb, 2003). 

Whelan (1992) has found that many species of avifauna use Buckthorn as an alternate 

nesting site, and Tyerman (2002) has noted warblers nesting in Buckthorn at Presqu’ile. It is 

not known what effect if any this is having on nest predation. 

Buckthorn tends to stall natural succession, as it will grow in dense even-aged colonies. 

Control Methods 

• Mechanical control is not recommended, as suckering is common, and this can lead to 

more vigorous growth. 

• Underplanting disturbed woods may be effective to prevent an invasion. Undeplanting 

may also limit re-invasion where no native saplings are present. 

• Girdling is an effective alternative treatment to herbicides if time and resources permit, 

as resprouting does not occur. Girdling can be done at any time in the winter. The shrub 

should be girdled as close to the base as possible, and the girdle should be 2-3 cm 

wide. In plants under 4.5 cm diameter, a flame torch can be used to destroy the 

cambium layer. The flame should be in contact with the plant for at least five seconds. 

Chemical control is effective using triclopyr (ester formulation), using a 30%+ concentration, 

mixed with diesel for cut stump or EZ-Ject treatment (Lamb, 2003; Murphy, 2003). An 8% 

concentration is sufficient for foliar spray. Cut stump treatments should be done in March, 

and June if using the EZ-Ject system. As Buckthorn tends to suppress other species, a site 

restoration may be necessary after control. 

Glossy Buckthorn 

Common Buckthorn 



2009


Dog-strangling Vine Vincetoxicum rossicum (Kleo.) Barb. & V. nigrum (L.) 

Moench. 

Milkweed Family Asclepiadaceae 

Alternate Common Name 

Black Swallow-wort and Pale Swallow-wort 

Distribution 

Pale Swallow-wort (V. rossicum) is more prevalent in Ontario than Black Swallow-wort (V. 

nigrum). This species can be found from Hamilton to Cornwall and north to Lake Simcoe 

and Ottawa (Kubisz, 1992). Dog-strangling Vines commonly occur in old fields, disturbed 

corridors, and forest edges (Sheeley, 1996). Another Vincetoxicum species, V. hirundinaria 

Medik., has been located in a few locations in the Niagara region, but there have been no 

records of this species in the past few decades. Black Swallow-wort is native to the 

Mediterranean region, and Pale Swallow-wort is native to the Ukraine and southern Russia 

(Sheely, 1996). 

Dog-strangling Vine is currently found in Presqu’ile, Sandbanks and Darlington Provincial 

Parks. The abundance and distribution at Sandbanks is unknown. The distribution at 

Presqu’ile is patchy and confined to high use areas, although it is starting to show up in 

woodland areas. The Darlington population is spreading, and is also found growing in a 

conifer plantation. 


General Identification: Vincetoxicum spp. are herbaceous perennial vines, that grow either 

erect, or twining on supporting vegetation. Vincetoxicum can grow up to two metres in 

height, depending on the habitat. Subterranean buds on the root crown are present. V. 

nigrum has rhizomes, but it is yet to be determined if rhizomes are present on V. rossicum. 

Leaves: The leaves are opposite, 5-10 cm long, hairless and smooth/shiny, oblong to ovate, 

narrowing to a point at the tip, rounded to subcordate at the base with short petioles, and the 

margins are entire to wavy. 

Flowers: The flowers are 5-9 mm wide, arising from the leaf axil, with 3-10 flowers per 

cluster. Black Swallow-wort flowers are purple-black, and Pale Swallow-wort flowers are 

pale to dark maroon, purple or pinkish. Both species have 5 fleshy petals 

Fruits: The pods are typical of the milkweed family. Pods are 4-7 cm long and slender, 

persisting on the vine after splitting lengthwise to release many tufted windborne seeds. 

Seeds are released in late summer to fall on windy, dry days. 

Similar species: May be confused with other milkweeds when the plants are either young 

or stunted. 

Habitat: Dog-strangling Vine is associated with disturbed areas, such as hydro corridors, old 

fields, quarries, nurseries and Christmas tree farms. Dog-strangling Vine occupies a wide 

ecological niche, and does well in full sun or partial shade, and in moist or dry soils. These 

plants can also invade deeply shaded areas, although seed production is reduced in this 

habitat type. Natural areas that have some type of disturbance regime may also be invaded. 

Alvar communities are often invaded due to the extreme hydrologic regime. Although Dog- 



2009


strangling Vine has not yet invaded alvar communities in the SEZ, these communities 

should be closely monitored for invasions. Pale Swallow-wort is associated with calcareous 

soils, and this may also be true of Black Swallow-wort (Lawlor, 2001). The habitat in which it 

is found in parks has not been fully described. 

Dispersal: Wind dispersed. 

Impacts 

Dog-strangling Vine can form dense stands that exclude and may displace native vegetation 

- further research is needed to determine the impact of this on native plant communities 

(Lawlor, 2001). Toxic substances present in this species may also have allelopathic 

(suppress the growth of other species) properties. 

Laboratory trials have shown that Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) will use Black 

Swallow-wort as an alternate host to lay their eggs on, rather than the native milkweeds. 

Larvae found on Black Swallow-wort experience high levels of mortality. It is possible that 

Monarch butterflies may also oviposit on Pale Swallow-wort. It is not yet known how and to 

what extent this may affect Monarch populations (Lawlor, 2001). 

Control Measures 

• Mechanical methods have not proven successful (Lawlor, 2001; McKewan, 2002; 

Cappuccino, 2002, Towel, 2002; Christensen, 1998). Both mowing and digging may 

actually stimulate growth (Cappuccino, 2002). Digging has the added disadvantage of 

disturbing the soil, which may promote more vigorous growth from the seed bank. If root 

crowns are dug up, they must be removed from the site, as crowns left on the ground 

can re-sprout (Lawlor, 2001) Mowing may be partially successful if this is carried out until 

the seed bank is depleted, but the site will need to be completely restored afterwards. 

Christensen (1998) found that repeated mowing reduced the average stem height, but 

did not have a great effect on total cover. Mowing should be carried out twice per 

growing season: once in mid-June, and again in early August. 

• Hand-pulling is not recommended, as root crown fragments in the soil will re-sprout 

(Lawlor, 2001). 

• Mulching has been attempted with both leaf litter and plastic sheeting. A common 

problem with this method is that animals will tear the sheeting, and plants can push 

through the mulch. Unless a tear resistant fabric can be utilized, this method is not 

recommended (Christensen, 1998). Again, this method kills all plants below the mulch or 

sheeting, and plastic sheeting can also kill soil microbes. 

• Fire may not be effective at reducing the number of mature plants in a colony, but may 

be useful after chemical application to remove seedlings, but further research is needed 

to substantiate this (Lawlor, 2001). 

• Chemical control is the most effective method (Lawlor, 2002; Christensen, 1998; 

McKewan). Glyphosate is recommended, as it is not persistent in the soil, and has a low 

level of toxicity in animals with no long term negative effects. Triclopyr has been tested 

on this species, and results were not as high as plants treated with glyphosate (Lawlor, 

2002). Foliar spraying of herbicides appears to be the most successful application 

method, but this is only practical in monocultures. Cut-stem application (wicking stems 

and leaves of trimmed plants) provides species specific control, and is recommended in 

areas where the goal is to release surrounding vegetation. A 5% solution of glyphosate is 

required for foliar spraying, and a 50%+ solution for cut-stem application. This dosage is 

higher than recommended by the manufacturer. Application should be done at the bud 



2009


formation stage (early June), early in the flowering stage, and again in August (Lawlor 

(2002). Monitoring and control may be necessary in consecutive years to eradicate the 

colony, but it is not known how long seeds persist in the soil (Christensen, 1998; Lawlor, 

2002). 



2009

APPENDIX F – Woodlands Monitoring Protocol 

Background 

The park management plan recommended the development of a monitoring program for 

the understorey of the mature forests in Woodlands Campground in conjunction with the 

development of the campground. It is known that roads and other unnatural openings in 

forests can have negative impacts on the composition of the forest for plants. Also, 

downed woody debris (DWD) like sticks and small logs are an important part of a forest 

ecosystem, but are often collected by campers for firewood. 

The purpose of the monitoring program is to track changes in ecological conditions of 

woodlands adjacent to campgrounds. This can best be done by monitoring herbaceous 

vegetation and downed woody debris. If negative impacts are observed mitigative 

measures can be taken through education, enforcement, or other means as appropriate 

or necessary. 

Goals for Woodland Monitoring 

Ideally, this kind of monitoring program would be established prior to site disturbance in 

order to obtain baseline data and track changes in site conditions over time. However, 

the monitoring program outlined below will still allow us to determine the changes due to 

human activities in: 

• ground vegetation of the mature forest 

• downed woody debris 

The use of control sites will provide a good statistical comparison immediately. 

Previous Studies 

A preliminary monitoring program was established by the assistant park naturalist in 

1997 immediately following the construction of the campground. Forty 1x1 m plots were 

randomly located in the forest and field areas of Woodlands Campground. Percent 

cover and composition of ground vegetation was determined in each plot in late August 

of 1997. Unfortunately, the location of the forest control plots assumed that the impact 

of the campground would not extend more than 25m into the forest interior; this is 

unlikely, and so those plots cannot function as true controls. It is not possible to relocate 

the exact location of these plots. A student project examining soils was also conducted 

previously. 

Woodland Monitoring Protocol Methods 

The protocols outlined below can easily be completed by students if they have sufficient 

field identification skills. They are also easily analyzed. Monitoring should take place 

every other year. 

Monitoring Design 

Sites have been selected where campsites are within the forest matrix (Table G-1). At 

each site, a 100 meter line (----) is run from the campsite post () into the surrounding 

forest, angled to avoid the edge of the forest at the end of the transect. Three 10 meter 

transects (⎥⎪⎢) are run approximately perpendicular to this 100 m line: one each at 10 m, 

25 m, and 75 m. The transects are run in such a way that they do not overlap the 

immediate footprint of the campsite (••••) and they begin at the base of the nearest tree 

() on the left side of the 100 m line (see diagram below). This base tree is marked with 

orange paint at its base, immediately right of the starting point of the transect. Downed 

woody debris and vegetation are evaluated within 50 cm on either side of this 10 m 



2009


transect, and a photo is taken of the transect. The same transects will be evaluated 

each time. Orange paint should be brought each year to touch up the marks. 

10 m 

25 m 

75 m 

Photographic Monitoring 

One of the easiest methods of tracking vegetation change is to photograph an area in 

the same location over regular intervals. Although this has not been initiated yet, it can 

be initiated immediately in the forested area of the campground and repeated in 5 year 

intervals or sooner, depending on staff availability and the rate of vegetation change 

• Photos should be taken during downed woody debris monitoring (mid-May) and 

during vegetation monitoring (mid-June) 

• Photos should be taken with a digital camera. An attempt should be made to take 

the pictures in favourable light conditions, and at as high a resolution as possible. 

• Photos should be taken at the end of each 10 m transect, so that the transect, the 

base tree, and some of the surrounding area is visible. The individual ID information 

for the photo should be written on a board and visible within the photo. For example, 

the photo taken at campsite 626, at the 75 m distance, in May 2006 should say: 626 

– 75 May/06. 

• Exact locations of all photos taken should be recorded and stored with the photos 

(including campsite post number, direction photos taken in, and GPS coordinates if 

possible). 

• Photos should be stored on CD, but should also be printed and saved in hardcopy. 

Vegetation 

This protocol allows comparison of numbers, not percent cover, of native and non-native 

plants species and tree saplings and shrubs among distances from campsites and 

years. It is based on a protocol developed for monitoring tallgrass prairies. Number is 

preferable to cover as it is less subjective, faster to evaluate, and simplifies the analysis. 

• Vegetation monitoring should occur in mid June, prior to the end of the school year 

and the July long weekend. This will allow us to evaluate vegetation abundance 

without disturbing park visitors and before they can have an immediate impact on 

these variables. 

• The number of all herbaceous individuals less than 50 cm in height are counted within 

a 1 m wide area centred on the 10 m transect (ie: a 10 m 2 plot). In most cases this is 

quite easy as understorey diversity and abundance is low. In areas with high 

abundance of individual plants numbers can be estimated. 

• The number of tree saplings and shrubs (woody species greater than 50 cm in height 

and less than 5 cm diameter at breast height) are counted within the same transect as 

the herbaceous vegetation. 

Downed Woody Debris 

This protocol allows comparison of numbers, not volumes, of downed woody debris 

among distances from campsites and years. It is based on elements of the Ecological 



2009


Land Classification, Environment Canada’s Ecological Monitoring and Assessment 

Network (EMAN), and the SE Zone’s Interior Campsite Impacts protocols. 

• The number of pieces of DWD is counted within a 1 m wide area centred on the 10 m 

transect (ie: a 10 m 2 plot). 

• DWD is recorded according to size class: 2.5 – 10 cm, 10 – 40 cm, and > 40 cm in 

diameter, where diameter is estimated based on the expected original size of the stick 

or log, and is its largest diameter within the transect. 

• DWD is also recorded according to one of three decay classes, modified from the 

standard MNR decay classes (see table below). 

• In order to count as being within the transect, the DWD must have a diameter of at 

least 2.5 cm within the transect area. 

• DWD must be at least 30 cm long. 

• DWD that is caught in low branches or lying at an angle should be counted only if it 

can easily be dropped to the ground (ie: would have been lying on the ground if it 

weren’t for branches holding it up). 

Decay Class Intact Partially Decayed Decayed 

MNR Decay Class 1 and 2 3 4 and 5 

Bark Intact Trace or Damaged Absent 

Twigs Present or absent Absent Absent 

Shape Round Round Round to Oval 

Structure Intact Intact Decaying 

Colour of Wood Original colour Faded Faded 

Portion of log on 

ground 

elevated on 

support points 

sagging 

all on ground 

Analysis 

Data can be summarized by park staff if time permits; analysis can be completed by 

zone office staff. Both Vegetation and Downed Woody Debris can be analyzed using an 

ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), as they involve quantitative data. The experimental 

treatments that we are looking for differences among are the distances from the 

campsites: 10, 25, and 75m. There are 10 repetitions of each experimental treatment. 

The response variables that we will conduct the analyses on are: 

• Vegetation: Total # Native Plants, Total # Non-native Plants, Total # Shrubs/Saplings; 

Totals by species 

• Downed Woody Debris: Total # DWD (can break into decay classes and size classes 

to see what type of debris is contributing most to differences) 

The null hypothesis that we are testing is: There is no difference in the number of 

(indicator species or pieces of DWD) among distances (10, 25, 75m) from the campsite. 

Fauna 

Amphibians, particularly salamanders and newts, are sensitive to forest understorey 

condition and are easy to monitor. A general salamander survey has been initiated in 

the park, including four plots in the woodlands campground. A detailed salamander 

monitoring protocol has been developed by EMAN. 

A preliminary survey of the monitoring sites has revealed little habitat available to 

salamanders. However, if it is decided to initiate a more structured salamander 

monitoring program in the Woodlands Campground, the EMAN protocol can be adopted. 



2009


Such a protocol would involve laying two pieces of rough-cut lumber at the beginning, 

mid-point, and end of each 10 m transect. There is a concern that these materials would 

be collected by campers and used as firewood. 

Forest bird monitoring has already been initiated in the park. The same standard 

methods can be used to assess differences in bird fauna between the forest interior (> 

100 m from a forest edge) and the campground areas. 



2009


Table G-1. Locations and descriptions of Woodlands Monitoring Transects, established in 2006. Bearings are given without 

declination. 

Cmpst# 100m 

line 

10m 

bearing 

10m comments 25m 

bearing 

25m comments 

75m 

bearing 

75m comments 

bearing 

616 89 175 Am Beech - large 

angled to avoid road 

edge 

617 356 80 Sugar Maple - med. age 

crossed main transect at 

12 m to avoid campsite 


ends near 13m and edge 

of campsite 


starts close to 626 and 

doesn't cross main 

transect 

172 Sugar Maple - med. age 

ends just before central 

transect to avoid #614 


several trees have been 

cut and removed, soil very 

disturbed 


crosses near 27 m 

630 281 352 Sugar Maple - med. age 19 Sugar Maple - large 

starts at 24 m 

660 35 143 Sugar Maple - small 

starts at 11m - tree has 

evidence of dog tied to 

it? 

662 287 23 Sugar Maple - large 


transect 

679 258 331 Red Oak - large 

begins on right and goes 

to right to avoid campsite 

695 338 84 Sugar Maple - small 


transect, starts at 2nd 

177 Sugar Maple - large 

115 Sugar Maple - dead 

crossed main transect at 

76 m, large treefort 

nearby 

124 Sugar Maple - large 

22 Sugar Maple - med. age 22 Sugar Maple - med. age 

crosses at 77m 

31 Black Cherry - dead 

140 Black Cherry - med. age 159 Sugar Maple - med. age 

human disturbance 

evident 




11 Sugar Maple - med. age 338 med. dead tree 

through wet depression 

and cedar 

55 Red Oak - med. age 63 Red Oak - med. age 



2009


tree back 

702 345 76 Sugar Maple - med. 


84 Sugar Maple - small 51 Sugar Maple - med. 



2009

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE G – Restoration Implementation Plan 

Intensive restoration is required in the former agricultural areas of the park in order to 

recreate natural vegetation cover. In 2002, North-South Environmental Consultants were 

contracted to prepare a restoration strategy for all former agricultural areas in the park. The 

strategy provides an overview of areas requiring restoration in the park, vegetation history, 

soils information, priorities for restoration, and general restoration methods. 

Table G-1 provides a detailed schedule and overview for restoration, based on the 

Sandbanks Restoration Plan (North-South Environmental 2003) and park staff input. This 

table should be used as a guideline for planning restoration implementation as funds 

become available. Financial and “manpower” assistance may be available from a variety of 

sources. A knowledgeable supervisor will be required if volunteers are used. Once the 

Phase I sites have been completed, similar methods can be applied to the remaining sites 

as funding and assistance are available. 

Methods described below constitute an adaptive management approach and are thought to 

be the most likely to produce successful results over time. As each method is applied, it 

should be monitored to determine its success before it is applied in a new section. If 

necessary, methods can be modified based on observed outcomes. 

Pits and Mounds 

This technique is intended to mimic the natural pits and mounds, or “microtopography”, 

found in forest ecosystems. If the physical makeup of the land can be restored less tree 

planting will be required as species naturally seed in. There are many benefits to this 

method: 

• Facilitates natural regeneration and succession – seeds get trapped in pits, and 

wildlife using area spread seeds (e.g. squirrels store seeds in mounds) 

• Provides a variety of microhabitats and allows the landscape to store water 

• Provides wide range of moisture conditions, increasing diversity 

• Provides habitat and water for birds, mammals, frogs, salamanders, and 

invertebrates 

• Mounds are formed of open aerated soil and organic debris accumulates in pits 

• Invasive non-native species are less likely to take over because they are habitat 

generalists and are outcompeted by native species that are adapted to the various 

microhabitat conditions 

This method has been refined in New England and was used 

in 2001 by the Nature Conservancy of Canada in a woodlot 

and field area in southwestern Ontario (Clear Creek Forest), 

where they have already seen many positive results. The 

methods described below are adapted from the methods 

used by these practitioners: 

• Review old airphotos to determine natural topography 

& drainage of site 

• Determine drainage & request permits to block tile 

beds from municipality if necessary 

• Pits and mounds are created in the fall (preferably September-October) using an 

earth mover with a large scooped blade (10 foot blade & 3 foot track) – doing the 

work in the fall allows the earth to settle, organic matter to come into the site, and 

water to collect before the next growing season 



2009


• Vary size and orientation to approximate natural landscapes – small pits and mounds 

should be 3 – 5 m is diameter and 1 m deep, about 250 of each per hectare 

• Create several larger ponds per hectare – these will act as deep permanent pools 

• Leave a 5-10 m buffer near forest edge so roots of established trees are not 

disturbed 

• An earth-mover can work approximately 6 hectares/day, at a rate of $500/day 

• Seed or plant as necessary or possible – see seeding & planting methods 

Hedgerows 

Hedgerows should be established around the perimeter of the restoration sites after the land 

has been treated. These will help to create linkages in the landscape, act as a barrier to the 

spread of invasive seeds, and improve microclimate conditions. This method is described 

further in the North-South Environmental report, including appropriate species. 

• Create hedgerows composed of native species of the area 

• Use fast-growing tree species and caliper stock - will function as a hedgerow and 

attain a height out of the reach of deer quicker 

• Create 3 or 4 staggered rows of trees spaced approximately 3 m apart to provide a 

barrier (the trees within each row should be placed every 1.5 m apart) 

• Plant container/potted stock shrubs between each of the rows of trees, spaced 

approximately 1 m apart 

• Plant the trees early in the spring (April/May) following the planting method below 

• Monitor survival of planted stock to determine appropriateness of species 

• Use poplars, White Ash, Chokecherry, and sumac in areas close to salted roads 

Detailed Planting Methods 

Planting trees and shrubs on the sites will speed up the process of creating a continuous 

canopy by initiating succession and acting as a seed source for continued regeneration. 

Plant Selection 

• Select trees and shrubs that: 

• Grow well in the open and have some deer resistance (e.g. oaks) 

• Sucker profusely (e.g. Trembling Aspen and Balsam Poplar) 

• Have heavy annual seed crop 

• Disperse seeds by birds (e.g. cherries and dogwoods) and wind (e.g. White Birch) 

• Initially plant pioneer species that will help to condition the soil and provide shade for 

shade tolerant species to grow later. Some climax species can also be mixed in or 

added in subsequent years. 

• Obtain the plant material from a local supplier (Appendix C). 

• Bareroot or container/potted stock of plants can be purchased. The advantages and 

disadvantages of each are outlined below. 

Bareroot 

Cheaper, easy to transport large quantities 

Roots must be kept moist at all times 

Must be planted when dormant in spring and 

Container/potted stock 

More expensive, bulky and heavy to 

transport 

Can be stored easily 

More flexible in planting times 



2009


fall 

More difficult to plant (roots often curved, not 

packed in tightly, holes not big enough, 

incorrect depth) 

Use only when planting with experienced staff 

Easy to plant correctly 

Use when planting with volunteers 

Planting Plan 

• Stake out planting locations beforehand, using the nucleation or matrix method. 

Nucleation • Establishment of nucleation clumps is a priority over the matrix plantings 

as these will help seed the matrix areas and create uneven-aged stands. 

• Clumps should be placed on the mounds and be large enough to create 

an enhanced microclimate (10-15 trees at 3m spacing). 

• Trees should be caliper size as these establish quicker, have more 

visual impact, more drought tolerance, and are less susceptible to 

herbivory and competition. 

• Shrubs should be planted in small groupings of 3 to 5 plants between the 

trees with 1m spacing (approximately a shovel length). 

Matrix • Matrix plantings will help fill out the canopy. 

• Distribute plants throughout the restoration area at a spacing of 1.5m to 

create a natural looking forest. These should not be in rows 

• Trees should be 2-4L pot size (~1m tall) or tall bareroot “whips” to 

provide a balance between cost and adequate presence. 

• All woody species plantings should be conducted before June (preferred) or after August 

(if necessary) to allow maximum establishment and growth of the plants and minimize 

stress on them. 

• Water all trees and shrubs prior to planting to ensure adequate moisture for 

establishment. 

• All plantings should have plastic tubing placed around the lower stem to reduce small 

mammal damage and make it easier to locate plantings for future monitoring. 

• Wood chip mulch should be applied in a donut-shaped mound around each planting to 

decrease competing vegetation and help to hold moisture in the soil. 

• Continuing care of the restoration site will be required in the first year or two, including 

the following (can use volunteers): 

• Monitor for severe drought conditions that may require supplemental watering in July 

• Check for extensive deer browse damage that may require treatment (eg. deer 

sprays, altered species list, etc) 

• Cut any extensive growth of competing vegetation away from the plantings – may 

require addition of extra mulch in future years 

• Mechanically remove new invasive species from the site 

• Remove protective tubing as the trees outgrow them 

Volunteer Involvement 

Planting events are an excellent opportunity to involve volunteers in restoring the landscape. 

Knowledgeable staff will be required to train and supervise volunteers to ensure quality 

control. Some considerations when working with the volunteers are outlined below. 

• Provide an overview of the purpose of restoration including anticipated successional 

changes. 



2009


• Use container stock of all plants as they provide more consistent results. There is a 

much greater likelihood that volunteers will incorrectly plant bareroot stock resulting in 

higher mortality. 

• Lay out all plants in their intended locations in advance so that the species are placed in 

their appropriate microsite conditions. 

• Conduct a demonstration planting to ensure that all volunteers are planting to the same 

standard. 

• Perform a “tug test” on all trees to check the quality of each planting. 

Seeding Method 

Areas requiring intensive restoration or lacking a good seed source can be seeded. This 

method is less expensive than planting and should be used whenever possible. This will be 

particularly important in supplementing the matrix plantings. Partners or volunteers may be 

interested in helping with seed collection. 

• Seeds can be collected from on site but should never be more than 10% of the seed 

from the population nor more than 10% from an individual plant. 

• Clean and pre-treat the seeds prior to planting or provide them to a local grower to 

propagate (see list in Appendix C). Seed may also be available in mixes from native 

plant growers but ensure that no non-native or non-local species are included in the mix. 

• The following species are known to successfully establish from seed with the appropriate 

pre-planting requirements in order to break seed dormancy. There are some conflicting 

opinions on the exact times of stratification but these are rough guidelines intended to 

simulate winter. 

• Round-leaved and Alternate-leaved Dogwood – 90 days cold stratification 

• Green Ash – 90-120 days cold moist stratification 

• White Oak – none 

• Red Oak – 90 days cold stratification 

• Common Elderberry – 90 days cold stratification 

• Seeding should occur in the spring when ample moisture is available for germination. 

• Once a treed canopy has been established native herbaceous species can be 

introduced as seed to encourage the growth of this understorey. 

Monitoring and Adaptive Management 

Follow-up monitoring is essential to this project, as subsequent restoration efforts 

will be based on the successes and lessons learned during the initial phases. 

Monitoring methods and stations can be set up by zone staff, and can be checked by trained 

summer staff. 

The location and abundance of all invasive species (particularly European Buckthorn, 

Norway Maple,and non-native pines) should be recorded to allow control strategies to be put 

in place according to Appendix D. 

For all sites restored in the first phase, and sites where intensive restoration has taken 

place, the following monitoring program should be followed. At subsequently restored sites 

less detailed monitoring (tallies only) can take place. Results from this monitoring will 

determine the success of restoration methods and needs for improvement. If different 

experimental techniques are attempted the monitoring should be done to allow simple 

statistical comparisons of techniques. 



2009


• A tally of all planted individuals should be conducted by species in the following 

categories to determine total mortality of the planted material: healthy, mild damage 

(some defoliation), medium damage (dead/broken leader), severe damage (only 

epicormic branches), and dead. 

• Five plots measuring 10m by 10m should be permanently marked and the coordinates 

determined by GPS within each restoration site to monitor the growth and survival of all 

planted material. Within these plots: 

• Four photographs should be taken from the centre point of the plot looking out in 

each of the cardinal directions. 

• Heights and diameters should be taken of each tree so that they can be tracked over 

time. 

• Any new “volunteer” trees or shrubs that were not planted (ie: naturally established) 

should be noted as such and measured as above. 

• Cover estimates should be made for each woody species within the plot as well as a 

total percent cover of all woody species for the entire plot, as this provides an 

indication of progress towards canopy closure. 

• A complete species list for the plot should be created to measure changes in plant 

diversity. These data can be analyzed using an appropriate diversity index. 

• One 1m by 1m plot should be located in each of the four corners of the larger plot to 

measure the percent cover of all herbaceous and graminoid species. Calculate 

importance values for each species to note changes over time 

• Additional information should be recorded on water levels, wildlife use, damaging agents 

(disease, insects, browse, etc.) and signs of disturbance. 

Annotated Resources 

Barry, W.J., A.S. Garlo, C.A. Wood. 1996. Duplicating the Mound-and-Pool 

Microtopography of Forested Wetlands. Restoration and Management Notes 

14:1, 14-21. 

• provides construction details for pits and mounds method 

Bellemare, J., G. Motzkin, and D.R. Foster. 2002. Legacies of the agricultural past in 

the forested present: an assessment of historical land-use effects on rich 

mesic forests. Journal of Biogeography 29: 1401 – 1420. 

• describes effect of historical uses on soil chemistry, even when forest cover is reestablished 

– see fewer nutrient-demanding herbs with more recent disturbance 

• forest herbs need to re-establish through seed-dispersal – dispersal method can affect reestablishment 

success, along with rates of seed production and establishment requirements 

• establishment also depends on distance from primary forest and refugia (hedgerows) 

• provides good species lists and seed dispersal classification 

McLachlin, S.M. and D.R. Bazely. 2001. Recovery patterns of understorey herbs and 

their use as indicators of deciduous forest regeneration. Conservation Biology 

15: 98-110. 

• describes microsite needs of native understorey herbs 

Verheyen, K., O. Honnay, G. Motzkin, M. Hermy, and D.R. Foster. 2003. Response of 

forest plant species to land-use change: a life-history trait-based approach. 

Journal of Ecology 91: 563-577. 

• describes how specific life-history traits of different species affect regeneration 



2009


Silvics of North America 

http://www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/pubs/silvics_manual/table_of_contents.htm 

An introduction to the use of native plants for restoration 

http://www.nps.gov/plants/restore/pubs/intronatplant/toc.htm 



2009


Table G-1. Details on specific techniques are provided in the Sandbanks Restoration 

Strategy. Soils information was supplemented by conversations with Keith MacDonald. 

Implementation will depend on resource availability. All methods should include follow-up 

monitoring. 

Site Priority 

phasing 

Restoration 

strategy 

A & B I Long term 

priority 1 

Specific techniques 

• Pits & mounds 

• Hedgerows 

C & D I Intensive • Pits & mounds 

• Hedgerows 

• Seeding and/or planting 

E & F I Long term 

priority 1 

H II Long term 

priority 1 

G, I, J II Long term 

priority 1 

K, L, M III Long term 

priority 2 

• Invasive species removal 

• Plough & disc to remove old 

grass cover 


• Will be difficult to rehabilitate – 

requires more research 


grass cover where necessary 


• Hedgerow on north edge 

• Hedgerows 

• Might be a problem because of 

poor soil – possible campground 

O II Intensive • Plough & disc to remove old 

grass cover 


• Hedgerows 

• Seeding &/or planting 

N ongoing Natural • Monitor for invasives 

Regenerati 

on 

P II Long term 

priority 

1/Intensive 

Q,R,S III Long term 

priority 2 

T ongoing Natural 

regeneratio 

n 

U III Long term 

priority 2 

V I Long term 

priority 1 

• Create pits & mounds as each 

field retired 

• Hedgerows 

• Seeding &/or planting in NW 

corner as possible or necessary 


grass cover 

• Hedgerows 

• Monitor for invasives 


grass cover 

• Hedgerow on north edge 

• Invasive species removal 


grass cover 

Notes on Current Condition 

• Brighton sandy loam, 1-1.5m depth 

• Excellent farming soil 

• Last farmed 2000, row crop rotation 

• Brighton sandy loam, 0.6-1m depth 

• Last farmed 2001, row crop rotation 

• Disturbed area of concern – invaded by 

buckthorn 

• Ameliasberg loam, 0.6-1m depth 

• Surrounded by hedgerows 

• Disturbed area of concern – past soil removal, 

existing dump, red cedar & buckthorn invading 

• Brighton gravelly sand 0.6-1m depth 

• Darlington loam 0.6-1m depth 

• Has natural hedgerows 

• Last farmed 1995 wheat 

• G-maples starting to move in 

• K & L – Brighton gravelly sand, 0.6-1m depth 

(poor soil) 

• M – Athol sandy loam, 1-1.5m 

• Last farmed 1990 hay 

• Athol sandy loam & Darlington loam, depths 

varying 0.6 to over 1.5 m 

• Last farmed 1990 hay & 1995 row crop rotation 

• Darlington loam, 1-1.5m depth 

• Poor farming soil 

• Last farmed 2001 alfalfa 

• Athol sandy loam depth varies 1 - 1.5m 

• Some good farming soil in middle of fields 

• Zoned historic in mp, but old hedgerows pattern 

no longer present 

• Still partially in cultivation 2004 – row crop 

rotation, lots of fertilizer & Roundup used 

• Small sections near woodlot not farmed since 

1990 

• Athol sandy loam, depth varies 0.6 to 1.5m 

• R&S – soils complex, ridge of limestone gravel 

runs through field, other sections sandy loam 

• R&S – last farmed 1995 wheat 

• Q last farmed 1996 wheat, R, S last farmed 1995 

wheat 

• Athol sandy loam, depth 0.6-1m 

• soil very gravelly & shallow, gets progressively 

worse towards water 

• Last farmed late 80’s 

• Athol sandy loam, depth 0.6-1m 

• Soil very gravelly & shallow, gets progressively 

worse towards water) 

• Last farmed 1992 hay 

• Disturbed area of concern – invaded by 

buckthorn 

• Athol sandy loam 

• Soils possibly better than U 

• Last farmed late 80’s? 



2009

APPENDIX H – Sandbanks Species List 

This list is compiled from a variety of sources and should not be considered exhaustive. Most 

records were taken from Norris and Cuddy (1990), who compiled their list from several sources. 

Records in Norris and Cuddy that came only from Sandbanks Plant List and were not confirmed by 

another biologist are not included as there were concerns about possible misidentifications. 

Obs: Observers listed are the most recent observations by a recognized botanist or other reliable 

source. DC = Norris and Cuddy (1990); JD = J. Dewey, Park Naturalist; VB = Brownell (1999), BC = 

Bill Crins, Ontario Parks Senior Ecologist (field visit 2003), x = other (former inventories by Kathy 

Lindsay, Ian MacDonald, Roland Beschel as cited in Norris and Cuddy 1990), miscellaneous field 

inventories by Corina Brdar. 

Invasive: Species with lower numbers (ie: higher ranks) are more invasive. Following Havinga, D. and 

the Ontario Invasive Plants Working Group. 2000. Sustaining Biodiversity: A Strategic Plan for 

Managing Invasive Plants in Southern Ontario. 

COSSARO: Provincial Species At Risk designations. 

Non-native: species that are not native to this part of Ontario. 

VB: designations provided in Brownell 1999. E. Ont = rare in Eastern Ontario; LOL = rare in Lake 

Ontario Lowlands physiographic region. 

Family NHIC Scientific Name NHIC Common Name Obs. NHIC 

COSSARO 

Invasive 

Nonnative 

VB 

Selaginellaceae Selaginella eclipes Hidden Spike-moss VB S4 E.ont 

Equisetaceae Equisetum arvense Field Horsetail DC S5 

Equisetaceae Equisetum variegatum Variegated Horsetail DC S5 

Ophioglossaceae Botrychium virginianum Rattlesnake Fern JD S5 

Osmundaceae Osmunda regalis Royal Fern JD S5 

Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium aquilinum Bracken Fern DC S5 

Thelypteridaceae Thelypteris palustris Marsh Fern DC S5 

Dryopteridaceae Athyrium filix-femina Subarctic Lady-fern JD S5 

Dryopteridaceae Cystopteris bulbifera Bulblet Fern JD S5 

Dryopteridaceae Cystopteris fragilis Fragile Fern JD S5 

Dryopteridaceae Dryopteris carthusiana Spinulose Shield Fern JD S5 

Dryopteridaceae Dryopteris goldiana Goldie's Woodfern JD S4 

Dryopteridaceae Dryopteris intermedia Evergreen Woodfern DC S5 

Dryopteridaceae Dryopteris marginalis Marginal Wood-fern DC S5 

Dryopteridaceae Gymnocarpium dryopteris Oak Fern JD S5 

Dryopteridaceae Matteuccia struthiopteris Ostrich Fern JD S5 

Dryopteridaceae Onoclea sensibilis Sensitive Fern DC S5 

Dryopteridaceae Polystichum acrostichoides Christmas Fern JD S5 

Polypodiaceae Polypodium virginianum Rock Polypody JD S5 

Pinaceae Abies balsamea Balsam Fir DC S5 

Pinaceae Larix decidua* European Larch* x SE2 X 

Pinaceae Larix laricina American Larch DC S5 

Pinaceae Picea abies* Norway Spruce* DC SE3 X 

Pinaceae Picea glauca White Spruce DC S5 

Pinaceae Picea mariana Black Spruce DC S5 

Pinaceae Pinus banksiana Jack Pine DC S5 

Pinaceae Pinus mugo* Mugo Pine* x SE1 X 

Pinaceae Pinus resinosa Red Pine DC S5 

Pinaceae Pinus strobus Eastern White Pine DC S5 

Pinaceae Pinus sylvestris* Scotch Pine* DC SE5 2 X 

Pinaceae Tsuga canadensis Eastern Hemlock DC S5 



2009


Cupressaceae Juniperus communis Ground Juniper DC S5 

Cupressaceae Juniperus virginiana Eastern Red Cedar DC S5 

Cupressaceae Thuja occidentalis Eastern White Cedar DC S5 

Taxaceae Taxus canadensis Canadian Yew DC S5 

Aristolochiaceae Asarum canadense Canada Wild-ginger x S5 

Nymphaeaceae Nuphar variegata Yellow Cowlily DC S5 

Nymphaeaceae Nymphaea odorata American Water-lily DC S5 

Ranunculaceae Actaea pachypoda White Baneberry DC S5 

Ranunculaceae Actaea rubra Red Baneberry DC S5 

Ranunculaceae Anemone acutiloba Liverleaf x S5 

Ranunculaceae Anemone cylindrica Long-fruited Anemone DC S4 

Ranunculaceae Anemone virginiana var. riparia River Anemone DC SU 

Ranunculaceae Aquilegia canadensis Wild Columbine DC S5 

Ranunculaceae Caltha palustris Marsh Marigold DC S5 

Ranunculaceae Ranunculus abortivus Kidney-leaved Buttercup x S5 

Ranunculaceae Ranunculus acris* Tall Butter-cup* x SE5 X 

Ranunculaceae Thalictrum dioicum Early Meadowrue x S5 

Berberidaceae Podophyllum peltatum May Apple x S5 

Papaveraceae Chelidonium majus* Greater Celandine* DC SE5 X 

Papaveraceae Sanguinaria canadensis Bloodroot DC S5 

Fumariaceae Dicentra cucullaria Dutchman's Breeches x S5 

Ulmaceae Celtis occidentalis Common Hackberry x S4 

Ulmaceae Ulmus sp. Elm x 

Ulmaceae Ulmus glabra* Wych Elm* DC SE1 4 X 

Urticaceae Boehmeria cylindrica False Nettle x S5 

Urticaceae Parietaria pensylvanica Pennsylvania Pellitory DC S4 

Urticaceae Pilea pumila Canada Clearweed x S5 

Urticaceae Urtica dioica ssp. gracilis nil DC S5 

Juglandaceae Carya ovata Shag-bark Hickory DC S5 

Juglandaceae Juglans cinerea Butternut DC S3? END 

Fagaceae Fagus grandifolia American Beech DC S5 

Fagaceae Quercus alba White Oak x S5 

Fagaceae Quercus macrocarpa Bur Oak x S5 

Fagaceae Quercus rubra Northern Red Oak DC S5 

Betulaceae Alnus incana ssp. rugosa Speckled Alder x S5 

Betulaceae Betula alleghaniensis Yellow Birch DC S5 

Betulaceae Betula papyrifera Paper Birch DC S5 

Betulaceae Carpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam DC S5 

Betulaceae Corylus cornuta Beaked Hazelnut DC S5 

Betulaceae Ostrya virginiana Eastern Hop-hornbeam x S5 

Chenopodiaceae Chenopodium album(*) White Goosefoot DC SE5 (x) 

Chenopodiaceae Corispermum sp. Bugseed VB S1S3 

Chenopodiaceae Salsola kali* Russian Thistle* DC SE5 X 

Portulaceae Claytonia virginica Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty x S5 

Caryophyllaceae Arenaria serpyllifolia* Thyme-leaf Sandwort* x SE5 X 

Caryophyllaceae Silene vulgaris* Bladdar Campion* DC SE5 X 

Polygonaceae Polygonum sp.(*) nil x (x) 

Polygonaceae Polygonum amphibium Water Smartweed DC S5 

Polygonaceae Rumex acetosella* Sheep Sorrel* DC SE5 4 X 

Polygonaceae Rumex crispus* Curly Dock* DC SE5 X 

Clusiaceae Hypericum majus Larger Canadian St. John'swort 

x S5 



2009


Clusiaceae Hypericum perforatum* St. John's-wort* DC SE5 4 X 

Clusiaceae Hypericum punctatum Common St. John's-wort DC S5 

Clusiaceae Triadenum fraseri Marsh St. John's-wort DC S5 

Tiliaceae Tilia americana American Basswood DC S5 

Malvaceae Hibiscus moscheutos Swamp Rose-mallow x S3 SC 

Violaceae Viola adunca Sand Violet VB S4S5 E.Ont 

Violaceae Viola pubescens Downy Yellow Violet x S5 

Cucurbitaceae Echinocystis lobata Wild Mock-cucumber x S5 

Salicaceae Populus balsamifera Balsam Poplar DC S5 

Salicaceae Populus deltoides Eastern Cottonwood DC S5 

Salicaceae Populus grandidentata Large-tooth Aspen DC S5 

Salicaceae Populus tremuloides Trembling Aspen DC S5 

Salicaceae Salix sp.(*) Willow(*) x (x) 

Salicaceae Salix cordata Sand Dune Willow DC S4S5 

Salicaceae Salix eriocephala Heart-leaved Willow VB S5 LOL 

Salicaceae Salis exigua Sandbar Willow x S5 

Brassicaceae Alliaria petiolata* Garlic Mustard* x SE5 1 X 

Brassicaceae Alyssum alyssoides* Pale Alyssum* x SE5 X 

Brassicaceae Arabis hirsuta Hairy Rock-cress DC S5 

Brassicaceae Barbarea vulgaris* Yellow Rocket* x SE5 3 X 

Brassicaceae Cakile edentula American Sea-rocket VB S4 E.Ont 

Brassicaceae Capsella bursa-pastoris* Common Shepherd's Purse* DC SE5 X 

Brassicaceae Cardamine concatenata Cutleaf Toothwort DC S5 

Brassicaceae Cardamine pensylvanica Pennsylvania Bitter-cress DC S5 

Brassicaceae Cardamine X maxima nil NC S2S3 E.Ont 

Brassicaceae Thlaspi arvense* Field Penny-cress* DC SE5 X 

Ericaceae Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Bearberry DC S5 

Monotropaceae Monotropa hypopithys American Pinesap VB S4 LOL 

Primulaceae Lysimachia ciliata Fringed Loosestrife x S5 

Primulaceae Lysimachia terrestris Swamp Loosestrife DC S5 

Primulaceae Trientalis borealis Northern Starflower x S5 

Grossulariaceae Ribes cynosbati Prickly Gooseberry x S5 

Crassulaceae Sedum acre* Gold-moss* DC SE5 X 

Saxifragaceae Mitella diphylla Two-leaf Bishop's-cap x S5 

Saxifragaceae Saxifraga virginiensis Virginia Saxifrage DC S5 

Rosaceae Agrimonia gryposepala Tall Hairy Groovebur x S5 

Rosaceae Amelanchier sp. Serviceberry x 

Rosaceae Crataegus sp. Hawthorn x 

Rosaceae Fragaria vesca Woodland Strawberry DC S5 

Rosaceae Fragaria virginiana Virginia Strawberry DC S5 

Rosaceae Geum aleppicum Yellow Avens DC S5 

Rosaceae Geum canadense White Avens DC S5 

Rosaceae Malus sp.(*) nil x (x) 

Rosaceae Potentilla anserina Silverweed DC S5 

Rosaceae Potentilla argentea* Silvery Cinquefoil* DC SE5 X 

Rosaceae Potentilla paradoxa Bushy Cinquefoil NC S3 

Rosaceae Potentilla recta* Sulphur Cinquefoil* DC SE5 X 

Rosaceae Prunus pumila var. pumila Sand Cherry VB S4? E.Ont 

Rosaceae Prunus serotina Wild Black Cherry DC S5 

Rosaceae Prunus virginiana Choke Cherry DC S5 

Rosaceae Pyrus communis* Common Pear* DC SE4 X 

Rosaceae Rosa acicularis Prickly Rose DC S5 

Rosaceae Rosa blanda Smooth Rose x S5 



2009


Rosaceae Rosa multiflora* Rambler Rose* DC SE4 1 X 

Rosaceae Rosa rugosa* Rugosa Rose* x SE1 X 

Rosaceae 

Rubus idaeus ssp. 

Wild Red Raspberry DC S5 

melanolasius 

Rosaceae Rubus occidentalis Black Raspberry DC S5 

Rosaceae Rubus odoratus Purple Flowering Raspberry DC S5 

Fabaceae Astragalus canadensis Canadian Milkvetch DC S4 

Fabaceae Coronilla varia* Common Crown-vetch* DC SE5 1 X 

Fabaceae Desmodium canadense Showy Tick-trefoil DC S4 

Fabaceae Lathyrus japonicus Beach Pea DC S4 

Fabaceae Lathyrus maritimus Beach Pea VB ? E.Ont 

Fabaceae Lathyrus palustris Vetchling Peavine DC S5 

Fabaceae Lotus corniculatus* Birds-foot Trefoil* DC SE5 2 X 

Fabaceae Medicago lupulina* Black Medic* x SE5 4 X 

Fabaceae Medicago sativa* Alfalfa* DC SE5 X 

Fabaceae Melilotus alba* White Sweet Clover* DC SE5 2 X 

Fabaceae Robinia pseudo-acacia* Black Locust* x SE5 2 X 

Fabaceae Trifolium aureum* Yellow Clover* x SE5 X 

Fabaceae Trifolium hybridum* Alsike Clover* DC SE5 X 

Fabaceae Trifolium repens* White Clover* DC SE5 4 X 

Fabaceae Vicia cracca* Tufted Vetch* DC SE5 2 X 

Elaeagnaceae Shepherdia canadensis Canada Buffalo-berry x S5 

Haloragaceae Myriophyllum spicatum* Eurasian Water-milfoil* x SE5 

Haloragaceae Proserpinaca palustris Marsh Mermaid-weed VB S4 E.Ont 

Lythraceae Decodon verticillatus Hairy Swamp Loosestrife DC S5 

Lythraceae Lythrum salicaria* Purple Loosestrife* DC SE5 1 X 

Onagraceae Circaea lutetiana Southern Broadleaf Enchanter's 

Nightshade 

DC S5 

Onagraceae Epilobium angustifolium Fireweed DC S5 

Onagraceae Oenothera biennis Common Evening-primrose DC S5 

Onagraceae Oenothera parviflora Northern Evening-primrose DC S4? 

Cornaceae Cornus alternifolia Alternate-leaf Dogwood DC S5 

Cornaceae Cornus foemina ssp. racemosa Stiff Dogwood DC S5 

Cornaceae Cornus rugosa Roundleaf Dogwood DC S5 

Cornaceae Cornus stolonifera Red-osier Dogwood DC S5 

Viscaceae Arceuthobium pusillum Dwarf Mistletoe VB S5 E.Ont 

Celastraceae Celastrus scandens Climbing Bittersweet DC S5 

Euphorbiaceae Chamaesyce polygonifolia Seaside Spurge VB S4 E.Ont 

Rhamnaceae Rhamnus cathartica* Buckthorn* DC SE5 1 X 

Vitaceae Parthenocissus vitacea Virginia Creeper DC S5 

Vitaceae Vitis riparia Riverbank Grape DC S5 

Aceraceae Acer negundo Box Elder DC S5 1 

Aceraceae Acer rubrum Red Maple DC S5 

Aceraceae Acer saccharinum Silver Maple DC S5 

Aceraceae Acer saccharum Sugar Maple DC S5 

Aceraceae Acer saccharum ssp. nigrum Black Maple x S4? 

Aceraceae Acer spicatum Mountain Maple DC S5 

Anacardiaceae Rhus glabra Smooth Sumac DC S5 

Anacardiaceae Rhus radicans Poison Ivy DC S5 

Anacardiaceae Rhus typhina Staghorn Sumac DC S5 

Geraniaceae Geranium maculatum Wild Crane's-bill DC S5 

Geraniaceae Geranium robertianum* Herb-robert* DC SE5 X 

Balsaminaceae Impatiens capensis Spotted Jewel-weed DC S5 



2009


Araliaceae Aralia nudicaulis Wild Sarsaparilla x S5 

Araliaceae Aralia racemosa American Spikenard x S5 

Apiaceae Cicuta bulbifera Bulb-bearing Water-hemlock DC S5 

Apiaceae Daucus carota* Wild Carrot* DC SE5 X 

Apiaceae Heracleum lanatum Cow-parsnip VB S5 E.Ont 

Apiaceae Osmorhiza claytonii Hairy Sweet-cicely DC S5 

Apiaceae Pastinaca sativa* Wild Parsnip* DC SE5 3 X 

Apiaceae Sanicula marilandica Black Snake-root DC S5 

Gentianaceae Gentianopsis crinita Fringed Gentian x S5 

Apocynaceae Apocynum androsaemifolium Spreading Dogbane DC S5 

Asclepiadaceae Asclepias incarnata Swamp Milkweed DC S5 

Asclepiadaceae Asclepias syriaca Kansas Milkweed DC S5 

Asclepiadaceae Asclepias tuberosa Butterfly Milkweed NC S4 E.Ont 

Asclepiadaceae Cynanchum rossicum* European Swallow-wort* x SE5 1 X 

Solanaceae Solanum dulcamara* Climbing Nightshade* DC SE5 3 X 

Convolvulaceae Calystegia sepium Hedge Bindweed DC S5 

Convolvulaceae Convolvulus arvensis* Field Bindweed* x SE5 3 X 

Polemoniaceae Phlox divaricata Wild Blue Phlox x S4 

Hydrophyllaceae Hydrophyllum virginianum John's Cabbage DC S5 

Boraginaceae Cynoglossum officinale* Common Hound's-tongue* DC SE5 X 

Boraginaceae Echium vulgare* Common Viper's-bugloss* DC SE5 X 

Boraginaceae Lithospermum canescens Hoary Puccoon NC S3 

Boraginaceae Lithospermum caroliniense Plains Puccoon VB S3 

Boraginaceae Lithospermum officinale* European Gromwell* DC SE5 X 

Phrymaceae Phryma leptostachya Lopseed DC S4S5 

Verbenaceae Verbena hastata Blue Vervain DC S5 

Verbenaceae Verbena simplex Narrow-leaved Vervain DC S4 

Lamiaceae Galeopsis tetrahit* Brittle-stem Hempnettle* DC SE5 X 

Lamiaceae Leonurus cardiaca* Common Motherwort* DC SE5 X 

Lamiaceae Lycopus americanus American Bugleweed DC S5 

Lamiaceae Lycopus europaeus* European Bugleweed* x SE5 3 X 

Lamiaceae Lycopus uniflorus Northern Bugleweed x S5 

Lamiaceae Mentha arvensis Corn Mint DC S5 

Lamiaceae Mentha X piperita* Pepper Mint DC SE4 4 X 

Lamiaceae Monarda fistulosa Wild Bergamot Bee-balm DC S5 

Lamiaceae Nepeta cataria* Catnip* DC SE5 4 X 

Lamiaceae Prunella vulgaris(*) Self-heal DC S5 (X) 

Lamiaceae Scutellaria galericulata Hooded Skullcap DC S5 

Lamiaceae Scutellaria lateriflora Mad Dog Skullcap DC S5 

Lamiaceae Stachys hispida Hispid Hedge-nettle DC S4S5 

Lamiaceae Teucrium canadense American Germander DC S5 

Plantaginaceae Plantago major* Nipple-seed Plantain* DC SE5 X 

Oleaceae Fraxinus americana White Ash DC S5 

Oleaceae Fraxinus nigra Black Ash x S5 

Oleaceae Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green Ash DC S5 

Oleaceae Syringa vulgaris* Common Lilac* x SE5 2 X 

Scrophulariaceae Agalinis paupercula Small-flowered Agalinis x S4S5 

Scrophulariaceae Agalinis tenuifolia Slender Agalinus VB S4S5 LOL 

Scrophulariaceae Chaenorrhinum minus* Common Dwarf Snapdragon* DC SE5 X 

Scrophulariaceae Linaria vulgaris* Butter-and-eggs* DC SE5 4 X 

Scrophulariaceae Mimulus ringens Square-stem Monkeyflower DC S5 

Scrophulariaceae Penstemon hirsutus Hairy Beardtongue DC S4 

Scrophulariaceae Rhinanthus minor Little Yellow-rattle x S4 



2009


Scrophulariaceae Verbascum thapsus* Great Mullein* DC SE5 X 

Orobanchaceae Epifagus virginiana Beechdrops x S5 

Lentibulariaceae Utricularia intermedia Flatleaf Bladderwort DC S5 

Lentibulariaceae Utricularia minor Lesser Bladderwort VB S5 E.Ont 

Lentibulariaceae Utricularia vulgaris Greater Bladderwort DC S5 

Campanulaceae Campanula aparinoides Marsh Bellflower DC S5 

Campanulaceae Campanula rotundifolia American Harebell DC S5 

Campanulaceae Lobelia kalmii Kalm's Lobelia DC S5 

Rubiaceae Galium sp. Bedstraw x 

Rubiaceae Galium triflorum Sweet-scent Bedstraw DC S5 

Rubiaceae Hedyotis longifolia Longleaf Bluets VB S4? E.Ont 

Caprifoliaceae Diervilla lonicera Northern Bush-honeysuckle x S5 

Caprifoliaceae Linnaea borealis Twinflower DC S5 

Caprifoliaceae Lonicera canadensis American Fly-honeysuckle x S5 

Caprifoliaceae Lonicera dioica Mountain Honeysuckle DC S5 

Caprifoliaceae Lonicera tartarica* Tartarian Honeysuckle* DC SE5 1 X 

Caprifoliaceae Sambucus canadensis Common Elderberry DC S5 

Caprifoliaceae Sambucus racemosa ssp. Red Elderberry DC S5 

pubens 

Caprifoliaceae Viburnum acerifolium Maple-leaf Viburnum DC S5 

Caprifoliaceae Viburnum lentago Nannyberry DC S5 

Asteraceae Achillea millefolium(*) Yarrow DC S5 (x) 

Asteraceae Ambrosia artemisiifolia Annual Ragweed DC S5 

Asteraceae Anaphalis margaritacea Pearly Everlasting DC S5 

Asteraceae Antennaria neglecta Field Pussytoes DC S5 

Asteraceae Arctium minus* Lesser Burdock* DC SE5 X 

Asteraceae Artemisia biennis* Biennial Wormwood* x SE5 X 

Asteraceae Artemisia campestris Pacific Wormwood DC S5 

Asteraceae Bidens cernua Nodding Beggar-ticks DC S5 

Asteraceae Bidens frondosa Devil's Beggar-ticks DC S5 

Asteraceae Chrysanthemum 

leucanthemum* 

Oxeye Daisy* DC SE5 X 

Asteraceae Cichorium intybus* Chicory* DC SE5 X 

Asteraceae Cirsium arvense* Creeping Thistle* DC SE5 1 X 

Asteraceae Conyza canadensis Fleabane x S5 

Asteraceae Erechtites hieracifolia Fireweed x S5 

Asteraceae Erigeron annuus White-top Fleabane DC S5 

Asteraceae Erigeron philadelphicus Philadelphia Fleabane DC S5 

Asteraceae Erigeron strigosus Daisy Fleabane DC S5 

Asteraceae Eupatorium maculatum Spotted Joe-pye Weed DC S5 

Asteraceae Eupatorium perfoliatum Common Boneset DC S5 

Asteraceae Eupatorium rugosum White Snakeroot DC S5 

Asteraceae Eurybia macrophylla Large-leaf Wood-aster DC S5 

Asteraceae Euthamia graminifolia Flat-top Fragrant-golden-rod DC S5 

Asteraceae Helianthus strumosus Pale-leaf Sunflower DC S5 

Asteraceae Hieracium aurantiacum* Orange Hawkweed* DC SE5 3 X 

Asteraceae Hieracium pilosella* Mouseear* DC SE5 X 

Asteraceae Inula helenium* Elecampane Flower* DC SE5 4 X 

Asteraceae Petasites frigidus* Sweet Coltsfoot x S5 X x 

Asteraceae Prenanthes altissima Tall Rattlesnake-root DC S5 

Asteraceae Solidago caesia Bluestem Goldenrod DC S5 

Asteraceae Solidago flexicaulis Broad-leaved Goldenrod DC S5 



2009


Asteraceae 

Solidago nemoralis ssp. 

decemflora 

Gray-stemmed Goldenrod VB S1S2 

Asteraceae Solidago ptarmicoides Prairie Goldenrod x S5 

Asteraceae Symphyotrichum boreale Rush Aster DC S5 

Asteraceae Symphyotrichum cordifolium Heart-leaf Aster DC S5 

Asteraceae Symphyotrichum ericoides White Heath Aster DC S5 

Asteraceae Symphyotrichum lanceolatum Panicled Aster DC S5 

Asteraceae Symphyotrichum novae-angliae New England Aster DC S5 

Asteraceae Taraxacum officinale* Brown-seed Dandelion* DC SE5 X 

Asteraceae Tragopogon pratensis* Meadow Goat's-beard* DC SE5 X 

Alismataceae Alisma gramineum - S3S4 Grass-leaved Water-plantain VB S3S4 

Alismataceae Alisma triviale Northern Water-plantain DC S5? 

Alismataceae Sagittaria latifolia Broadleaf Arrowhead DC S5 

Hydrocharitaceae Elodea canadensis Broad Waterweed DC S5 

Hydrocharitaceae Hydrocharis morsus-ranae* European Frogbit* DC SE5 1 X 

Juncaginaceae Triglochin maritimum Common Bog Arrow-grass DC S5 

Juncaginaceae Triglochin palustre Slender Bog Arrow-grass VB S5 E.Ont 

Potamogetonaceae Potamogeton crispus* Curly Pondweed* DC SE5 1 X 

Potamogetonaceae Potamogeton gramineus Grassy Pondweed DC S5 

Najadaceae Najas flexilis Slender Naiad DC S5 

Araceae Arisaema triphyllum Jack-in-the-pulpit DC S5 

Lemnaceae Lemna minor Lesser Duckweed DC S5 

Juncaceae Juncus balticus Baltic Rush DC S5 

Juncaceae Juncus brachycephalus Small-head Rush VB S4S5 E.Ont 

Juncaceae Juncus brevicaudatus Narrow-panicled Rush DC S5 

Juncaceae Juncus bufonius Toad Rush DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex aquatilis Water Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex aurea Golden-fruited Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex comosa Bristly Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex crawei Crawe Sedge VB S4 E. Ont 

Cyperaceae Carex flava Yellow Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex garberi Elk Sedge VB S4 E. Ont 

Cyperaceae Carex lasiocarpa Slender Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex pellita Woolly Sedge BC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex pensylvanica Pennsylvania Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex rosea Rosy Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Carex viridula Little Green Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Cladium mariscoides Twig Rush DC S5 

Cyperaceae Cyperus bipartitus Umbrella Sedge VB S5 LOL 

Cyperaceae Cyperus esculentus Chufa Flat-sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Cyperus odoratus Rusty Flatsedge VB S5 E.Ont 

Cyperaceae Dulichium arundinaceum Three-way Sedge DC S5 

Cyperaceae Eleocharis compressa Flat-stemmed Spike-rush KL S4 

Cyperaceae Eleocharis elliptica Slender Spike-rush VB S5 E.Ont 

Cyperaceae Eleocharis pauciflora Fewflower Spikerush VB S5 E.Ont 

Cyperaceae Rhynchospora capillacea Capillary Beakrush DC S4? 

Cyperaceae Scleria verticillata -S3 Low Nutrush VB S3 

Poaceae Agrostis hyemalis Winter Bentgrass KL S1 

Poaceae Agrostis stolonifera Spreading Bentgrass DC S5 

Poaceae Alopecurus aequalis Short-awn Foxtail DC S4S5 

Poaceae Ammophila breviligulata American Beachgrass VB S3 

Poaceae Andropogon gerardii Big Bluestem DC S4 

Poaceae Bromus inermis Awnless Brome DC S5 



2009


Poaceae Calamagrostis canadensis Canada Blue-joint DC S5 

Poaceae 

Calamovilfa longifolia var. Sand Reed Grass VB S3 

magna 

Poaceae Dactylis glomerata* Orchard Grass* DC SE5 3 X 

Poaceae Danthonia spicata Poverty Oatgrass x S5 

Poaceae Echinochloa crusgalli* Barnyard Grass* DC SE5 X 

Poaceae Elymus canadensis Nodding Wild-rye DC S4S5 

Poaceae Festuca rubra Red Fescue DC S5 

Poaceae Festuca saximontana Rocky Mountain Fescue VB S4 E.Ont 

Poaceae Muhlenbergia mexicana Mexican Muhly DC S5 

Poaceae Panicum capillare Old Witch Panic-grass DC S5 

Poaceae Panicum flexile Wiry Witch Grass DC S4 

Poaceae Panicum virgatum Old Switch Panic Grass VB S4 E.Ont 

Poaceae Phalaris arundinacea Reed Canary Grass DC S5 5 

Poaceae Phleum pratense* Meadow Timothy* DC SE5 X 

Poaceae Poa compressa* Canada Bluegrass* DC SE5 X 

Poaceae Poa nemoralis* Woods Bluegrass* DC SE3 

Poaceae Poa pratensis Kentucky Bluegrass DC S5 

Poaceae Schizachne purpurascens Purple Oat DC S5 

Poaceae Schizachyrium scoparium Little Bluestem VB S4 LOL 

Poaceae Sorghastrum nutans Yellow Indian-grass VB S4 LOL 

Poaceae Sporobolus cryptandrus Sand Dropseed VB S4 E.ont 

Poaceae Sporobolus neglectus Small Dropseed DC S4 

Poaceae Zizania aquatica Indian Wild Rice DC S4 

Sparganiaceae Sparganium eurycarpum Large Bur-reed DC S5 

Typhaceae Typha angustifolia* Narrow-leaved Cattail DC SE5 X 

Typhaceae Typha latifolia Broad-leaf Cattail DC S5 

Pontederiaceae Heteranthera dubia Grassleaf Mud-plantain DC S5 

Pontederiaceae Pontederia cordata Pickerel Weed DC S5 

Liliaceae Erythronium americanum Yellow Trout-lily x S5 

Liliaceae Maianthemum canadense Wild-lily-of-the-valley x S5 

Liliaceae 

Maianthemum racemosum ssp. 

racemosum 

False Solomon's-seal DC S5 

Liliaceae Maianthemum stellatum Starflower False Solomon'sseal 

Liliaceae Polygonatum pubescens Downy Solomon's-seal DC S5 

Liliaceae Trillium grandiflorum Large-flower Trillium DC S5 

Liliaceae Uvularia grandiflora Large-flowered Bellwort x S5 

Iridaceae Iris pseudacorus* Yellow Iris* DC SE3 4 X 

Iridaceae Iris versicolor Blueflag DC S5 

Orchidaceae Calypso bulbosa Fairy Slipper NC S4S5 E.Ont 

Orchidaceae Corallorhiza trifida Early Coralroot VB S5 

Orchidaceae Cypripedium arietinum Ram's-head Lady's-slipper NC S3 

Orchidaceae Epipactis helleborine* Eastern Helleborine* DC SE5 X 

Orchidaceae Liparis loeselii Loesel's Twayblade DC S4S5 

Orchidaceae Spiranthes cernua Nodding Ladies'-tresses x S5 

Orchidaceae Spiranthes romanzoffiana Hooded Ladies'-tresses VB S5 

DC 

S5 



2009

Sandbanks Draft Veg Mgmt Plan - Ontario Parks

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