Based on these concerns, a study was undertaken to examine the cumulative effects of ponds on water resources along the Escarpment using case study areas within the jurisdiction of the CVC. The cumulative effects of water taking and diversions were also examined. The study was undertaken in three stages:

1. A literature review was completed to investigate the nature and extent of impacts associated with ponds as well as environmental pathways linking these effects to changes in water resources and natural habitats.
   
   
2. Field work was undertaken to document individual and cumulative effects of pond construction and operation. Case study areas were located in Clearview, Mulmur and Mono Townships and in the headwaters of the Credit River Watershed. In each field season, the area of impact was examined to assess the potential extent of cumulative effects.
   
   
3. Based on an assessment of the literature and an analysis of case study results, policy recommendations were made.

Results:

The literature review and case study results indicate that a variety of pond types cause cumulative effects on water resources. These effects were considered to be avoidable for some pond types through proper pond design and operation, and in some cases limits to the number of ponds within a drainage area or aquifer.

Pond construction displaces/eliminates certain types of habitat (i.e. seeps, springs, upwellings). It is not known if the impact of the cumulative loss of these habitats is significant because little is known about their distribution, representation and use by wildlife on the Niagara Escarpment. However, there are instances where sensitive natural resources may be jeopardized by pond construction, and ponds should not be permitted in these settings.

The increasing number of ponds has changed the visual and physical nature of the Escarpment. It was recommended that the construction of new ponds should not be permitted in areas to be preserved for their natural conditions (e.g. Escarpment Natural Areas).

The majority of ponds within the Niagara Escarpment Plan Area for which approval is being sought are less than two hectares on private rural acreage or farms. These landowners have a key role in efforts to manage/protect habitat. Therefore, their support and cooperation is essential to ensure that construction and operation of ponds protects natural habitat.

Project support:

This project was prepared for the Niagara Escarpment Commission by Beak Consultants Ltd., Aquafor Beech Ltd., Terraqua Investigations Ltd., and Geomatics International Inc. Funding was provided by the Ontario Heritage Foundation, the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Natural Resources.