Minto Communities: Permit for activities with conditions to achieve overall benefit to species [Blanding Turtles]

Ms. Erin Thompson Seabert
Fish and Wildlife Technical Specialist
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry

Dear Ms. Seabert,

Re:  EBR Registry Number: 012-8004

Title: Minto Communities. Permit for activities with conditions to achieve overall benefit to the species [Blanding Turtles] – ESA clause 17 (2)(c)

We are writing to support the comments submitted by the Ottawa Field Naturalists’ Club with respect to the above project. A copy of their submission is included below for your convenience.

While each of their comments should be key requirements for any permit, I would like to particularly stress the need for habitat connectivity through the provision of aquatic channels. Possibly, as mentioned in the proposal, through the channel restoration of Feedmill Creek. I witnessed a construction project several years ago close to an area where I live that essentially cut off the travel corridor of aquatic species, resulting in several Blanding’s that we had to rescue from a busy road over the next year or so.

The need for training of construction staff and educational materials on the Blanding’s Turtle for all new home buyers must be other essential elements.

If the project goes forward, we trust that these minimal requirements will be put in place. We appreciate the opportunity to comment.

Sincerely,

Donna DuBreuil, President
Ottawa-Carleton Wildlife Centre