Linking Mapping to Policy:
Hydrologically Sensitive Ecosystems
Hydrologically Sensitive Ecosystems
These include riparian areas, wetlands of all types, and marine estuaries and shorelines. They provide habitat for aquatic and tidal plant and animal species as well as breeding and nesting habitat for birds; and food, shelter, and breeding habitat for a range of vertebrate and invertebrate species. These areas are often essential to connectivity corridors and are high in biodiversity. They provide ecosystem services such as flood mitigation, storm surge protection, and water storage and filtration, making them an especially valuable natural asset.
Retaining connections between streams and waterbodies is essential to the integrity of hydrologically sensitive ecosystems. Several municipalities have restored connectivity by removing barriers to water flow. Opening up and restoring previously buried watercourses (“daylighting”) can significantly improve riparian areas.
Fish bearing streams, spawning and rearing areas as well as First Nation fishing sites and culturally important areas should be protected and kept free from contaminants.
The Provincial government mandates protection of a riparian buffer zone along streams. Shoreline habitat should also be retained or restored if it has been disturbed.