Community Initiatives Guide-July 2013

8/13/2019 Community Initiatives Guide-July 2013

1/34

ECOLOGY OTTAWA Community Initiatives Guide

24 June 2013

1

Community Initiatives GuideEcology Ottawa Community Network

Table of Contents

IWHAT IS THE ECOLOGY OTTAWA COMMUNITY NETWORK? 3

IIGENERAL ROLES AND PROCESS: ECOLOGY OTTAWA, COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS AND

INITIATIVE-SPECIFIC TEAMS 3

DEFINITIONS 4ORGANIZING YOUR TEAM 4WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT AND RESOURCES CAN YOU EXPECT FROM ECOLOGY OTTAWA? 5INVOLVING YOUR COMMUNITYASSOCIATION 6

USING THE WORKSHEETS 6

IIIOUTREACH AND MEDIA 7

IVBUILDING A GREENER OTTAWA ONE NEIGHBOURHOOD AT A TIME: ECOLOGY OTTAWA

COMMUNITY INITIATIVES 7

TREE OTTAWA COMMUNITY INITIATIVE 8

INTRODUCTION 8PROCESS AND TIMELINES:HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE IN TREE OTTAWA? 9KEYACTIVITIES 10

PLANT-A-TREE 10ADOPT-A-TREE 13HARVEST-A-TREE 14RESOURCES 14TREE NURSERIES AND OTHER SOURCES OF TREES 14TREE OTTAWA CHAMPIONS 15FURTHER READINGS AND INFORMATION 16LIST OF TREE OTTAWAAPPENDICES 17

HEALTHY WATERSHEDS ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.

INTRODUCTION ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.PROCESS AND TIMELINES:HOW CAN YOU PROMOTE HEALTHY WATERSHEDS? 19KEYACTIVITIES ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.ADOPT-A-STREAM MONITORING ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.CREEK/STREAM CLEAN-UPS ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.DOWNSPOUT DISCONNECTION/REDIRECTION ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.RAIN BARREL INSTALLATION 22RAIN GARDENS 23PERMEABLE PAVEMENTS 24FOLLOW-UP 24


2/34


24 June 2013

2

RESOURCES 25

ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION 26

INTRODUCTION 26PROCESS AND TIMELINES:HOW CAN YOU PROMOTEACTIVE TRANSPORTATION? 27

KEYACTIVITIES 28EVENTS TO CELEBRATE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD 28NEIGHBOURHOOD ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION ASSESSMENTS 29FOLLOW UP 30ADDITIONAL RESOURCES 31LIST OFACTIVE TRANSPORTATIONAPPENDICES 32

ECO TEAMS 33

APPENDICES 35

COMMONAPPENDICES 35

WORKS SHEETS 35VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT 39SAMPLE LETTERS AND MEDIA RELEASES 40TREE OTTAWAAPPENDICES 46TREE OTTAWA APPENDIX I:NATIVE TREE SPECIES 46TREE OTTAWA APPENDIX II:TREE CARE GUIDE 52TREE OTTAWA APPENDIX III:HOW TO PLANT A TREE 56TREE OTTAWA APPENDIX IV:TREE CARETRACKING FORM 57ACTIVE TRANSPORTATIONAPPENDICES 58ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION APPENDIX I:ECOLOGY OTTAWA ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION CHECKLIST 58ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION APPENDIX II:BUILT ENVIRONMENT &ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION (B.E.A.T.)

NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSESSMENT 61ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION APPENDIX III:LONG LIST OF RESOURCES 62ECO TEAMAPPENDICES 64


3/34


24 June 2013

3

Community Initiatives GuideEcology Ottawa Community Network

I What is the Ecology Ottawa Community Network?

Ecology Ottawa is a not-for-profit, grassroots, volunteer-driven organization working to make

Ottawa the green capital of Canada. We believe that Ottawa residents are concerned about

issues such as climate change, pollution and waste, and that they want sustainable

communitieswhere clean energy, air, and water, public transportation, recycling, and greenspace protection take priority.

The Ecology Ottawa Community Network is made up of neighbourhood organizers and

volunteers working in their own local communities. Together neighbours who think our

environment is important can send important messages to decision-makers in a strong and

coherent way. Through the Community Network, neighbours can also organize activities across

the city to make their neighbourhoods better places to live in by caring for trees, protecting our

watersheds, promoting active transportation, and improving energy efficiency.

The objective of this Guide is to help Community Network Organizers and their Teams to

implement the following four Ecology Ottawa Community Initiatives: Tree Ottawa, HealthyWatersheds, Active Transportation Audits and Eco Teams. Guidelines for each initiative are

provided in part IV.

II General Roles and Process: Ecology Ottawa,Community Organizers and Initiative-specific

Teams

This section provides definitions of some of the terms used in this guide and explains the

relationships and processes common to all of the neighbourhood initiatives.


4/34


24 June 2013

4

Defini t ions

Community OrganizersThese are the key organizers that link neighbourhood volunteers with

Ecology Ottawa's campaigns. There may be one or more of them in any given neighbourhood

and they often work together to coordinate local improvement initiatives, door-to-door

petitioning, and other information and outreach events in their neighbourhood.

Tree TeamsThese are a collection of volunteers, in touch with

the Community Organizer(s) that are engaged in adopt-a-tree

projects, tree planting, fruit and nut tree harvesting and

promoting treatment for the Emerald Ash Borer on private

property.

Healthy Watershed TeamsThese are a collection of

volunteers, in touch with the Community Organizer(s) that are

engaged in adopt-a-stream projects, river bank and stream side

clean-ups, neighbourhood water conservation and education

projects.

Active Transportation TeamsThese are a collection of volunteers, in touch with the

Community Organizer(s) that are organizing active transportation events and performing active

transportation audits, walkability surveys, etc.

Eco-TeamsThese are a collection of volunteers, in touch with the Community Organizer(s) that

are working to reduce their own and perhaps their neighbourhoods greenhouse gas emissions.

Organizing your team

1. What are you starting with?

Do you have a strong team of two or three volunteers that can help you do the

foundational planning for your local improvement initiative? If so, you are probably

ready to get started on one of the four projects highlighted in this guide.

If it's just you preparing to kick-start a local improvement initiative, then you might

have to step back and contemplate recruiting a few other volunteers.

2. How can you find a few keen volunteers from your neighbourhood?

Invite a speaker (Ecology Ottawa can help you with that) to talk about the

importance of urban trees, or the adopt-a-stream program, or reducing your

greenhouse gas emissions, or active transportation in your community. Publicize it

broadly and pass around a volunteer sign-up sheet at the event. Put a note in your neighbours mailboxes signed by you, inviting them to help with a

local initiative. Perhaps invite them to a meeting at a local coffee shop.

Use Ecology Ottawa's database to locate other Ecology Ottawa volunteers that

might live in your neighbourhood.

Look at the possibilities for collaboration with a local group, like your community

association, the scouts, a school, a businessget creative.


5/34


24 June 2013

5

3. Picking a project

Perhaps you have a local initiative in mind. If you are set to pursue this initiative, be

clear about your objectives as you recruit volunteers.

If you hold a meeting to see what neighbours think about each one of the possible

initiatives, you will likely need a process to decide where the group will focus its

efforts (Ecology Ottawa can help with this).

Your decision may be based on neighbourhood priorities, engaging a collaborator

that may be beneficial for future initiatives, or a crisis intervention (like dealing with

the Emerald Ash Borer).

4. Developing a work planIt is important to come up with a plan to execute the initiative

you want to implement in the best way possible for your neighbourhood. Ideally, you

should develop the work plan with the whole neighbourhood team that will implement

the initiative. The work plan should include:

- The activities and strategies that you think are right for your community.

- A calendar of the activities you plan to carry out (including date, time and place).- A strategy to advertise the activities and involve the rest of the community, if

needed.

- The equipment and materials you will need to implement your plan.

- Your budget.

- The follow-up or reporting activities you will carry out.

Each initiative section has a flow chart that will help you see the flow of your project.

What kind of supp or t and resources can you expect f rom

Ecology Ot tawa?There is a small budget to help with equipment and communications for our local initiatives.

There are some funds to purchase trees and other planting materials. The tree chapter will

provide greater details of how to source trees.

Relevant chapters will provide lists of sources for materials. Contacting these sources will give

you an idea of costs. We suggest that at the start of your local initiative planning you create a

rough budget, and then meet with Ecology Ottawa's Community Network Coordinator.

For clean-up initiatives we have a box of rubber boots, gloves, sunscreen and garbage bags. We

can also provide refreshments for volunteers at any outdoor events.

Ecology Ottawa has put together this guide to inspire you and to provide

examples, information, tools and additional resources to help you

implement a green initiative in your neighbourhood. If you have any

questions or suggestions, or require additional support, you should not

hesitate to contact Ecology Ottawa's Community Network Coordinator

[email protected] the office 613-860-5353.
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


6/34


24 June 2013

6

Involv ing you r Comm uni ty Assoc iat ion

You neighbourhood Community Association (CA) is a powerful ally. Regularly attending these

meetings is a long-term investment for Ecology Ottawa activities in your neighbourhood as well

as City-wide campaigns.

As you build a relationship with you CA, and gain an understanding of their process you should

be able to present your initiative at various times throughout your planning process, as an

update, to ask for opinions and input, or to ask for something specific:

CollaborationCan they contribute some funds? (This is why drafting a budget is important

from the beginning.)

PromotionCan they help you spread the word through their website, mailing list or

newsletter?

EndorsementWould they attend the event and endorse the initiative?

Political pressureWould they bring Ecology Ottawa's campaign related to this local

initiative to the City Councillor that represents that neighbourhood?

Ecology Ottawa's Community Network Coordinator can help your team sketch out a strategy for

engaging your CA, if required.

Using the Works heetsAt the end of this handbook you'll find a number of worksheets.

Letter requesting permission to plant

Letter requesting permission to adopt-a-stream

Contract from private land owner

Sample Media Release

Planning your initiative worksheet

Participant sign-in for event dayplus an hours log

Team hours log

These worksheets are to support you in your planning, but they also serve to collect the data

that will allow Ecology Ottawa:

To report back to our funders on volunteer numbers, hours, and other metrics for each

local initiative.

To assess our progress and understand our challenges and successes.

To keep track of all our friends across the City that may support us on other campaigns.

(Building our support-base is key to making our capital the greenest City in Canada.)


7/34


24 June 2013

7

III Outreach and Media

OutreachEngaging with your community and finding other people who are interested in a

green local initiative can be accomplished in a variety of different ways:

1. Going door to door telling people about what you are hoping to do.2. Creating a Facebook group.

3. Organizing a community meeting (and using some of the tools mentioned here and

below, to promote it).

4. Contacting local environmentally focused groups and associations to see if they would

be interested in collaborating.

5. Through your Community Associationan announcement at their meeting about

Ecology Ottawa and your proposed project, a formal request for funds or support, a

meeting call-out or article in their newsletter.

Media AdvertisingIt may not be possible to contact every person in your neighbourhood, and

going door to door is hard work. There are other ways to get the word out about a communitymeeting or event you are planning on hosting, or to share the work youve already done:

Does your community have a local newspaper where you could place an article?

How about a local radio station that broadcasts in your area?

Every community has a local hotspot where people meet-up and talk like a coffee

shop. Ask the manager if you can put up an informal booth to help you interact with

the people who come into the shop.

There are also often other pre-organized events happening in your area. You can

contact the organizer and ask if you could attend to promote your Community Meeting.

Most of the suggestions above are free, but if you have a budget for advertising you can

advertise on Facebook, OC Transpo, or a traditional ad in the print media.

IV Building a Greener Ottawa One Neighbourhood

at a Time: Ecology Ottawa Community Initiatives

As mentioned earlier, Ecology Ottawas Community Network will be implementing four

local initiatives throughout the city over the next three years: Tree Ottawa, Healthy

Watersheds, Active Transportation and Eco Teams. The following sections provide

detailed guidance to help implement each one of these initiatives.


8/34


24 June 2013

8

Tree Ottawa Community Initiative

Int roduct ion

Trees are an essential feature of vibrant communities and resilient economies; offering precious

habitats for connecting to and revelling in nature. Tree Ottawa consists of three major

programs; protect trees, plants trees and promote tree habitat. Tree Ottawa shall engage

Ottawa residents, private companies, public organizations and other stakeholders to be a part of

a greener community through their active participation in protecting, planting and celebrating

trees in neighbourhoods and nature.

The Tree Ottawa Community Initiative is part of the broader Tree Ottawa program. Within the

Tree Ottawa Community Initiative, Tree Ottawa Teams will be working within the context of the

Ecology Ottawa Community Network. These teams can organize tree-planting events in their

community, engage residents to adopt and care for stressed trees, and help to harvest fruit and

nuts from existing trees through Hidden Harvest Ottawa.

Why we need Tree Ottawa

Trees in the city of Ottawa mitigate the effects of climate change,

contribute to water retention, add beauty to our urban

landscapes and provide us with food, shade, recreation, and noisebarriers. Trees reduce the amount of dust and pollution in the air

and replace them with sweet fragrances and fresh oxygen. Urban

trees are homes to a multitude of animal species, supplying food,

shelter and habitat year round. Trees are significant and integral

components of our urban ecology. Indeed, caring for our existing

trees and planting more trees will benefit us all.

In recent years, however, trees have been under attack by invasive pests like the Emerald Ash

Borer, by the effects of climate change, drought and severe storm events, as well as by the

increasing number and scale of urban developments that replace natural, treed landscapes with

pavement and buildings. In fact, the Emerald Ash Borer threatens to destroy 25% of Ottawas

existing tree canopy in only a few years. It is more important now than ever before that we

value the trees in our urban landscape and work to increase their numbers and prevent further

degradation of this valuable natural resource.

What is Hidden Harvest Ottawa?

Thousands of people in our area are reliant on food banks. The Food Bank serves 43,000 clients

on an average month. And yet, more than 20,000 fruit and nut trees accessible in the National


9/34


24 June 2013

9

Capital Region frequently go unpicked or even represent a burden to the tree owner. Through

organized harvest events we can help share this urban abundance. Hidden Harvest Ottawa

(HHO) seeks to connect tree owners with volunteer harvesters. The fruit or nuts from a harvest

event are split four ways: to the tree owner, to the volunteer harvesters, to the nearest

community agency in need (such as food bank or soup kitchen), and to HHO for processing.

As a community organizer you can use this guide to help you implement the Tree Ottawa

initiative in your neighbourhood. This guide provides an example of how to organize your

project and hands-on information and resources you might need, but you can always take a

different path.

Process and Timel ines: How can yo u part ic ipate in Tree Ottawa?

The chart below is an example the main steps involved in implementing the Tree Ottawa

initiative in your neighbourhood. Getting your community involved is one of your first priorities.

Identifying people that are interested in participating in this project is the key to success. Below

are several ideas on how to encourage people in your neighbourhood to be involved in this

initiative:

Participate in a Janes Walk, an excellent way of getting to know what trees are found in

your neighbourhood and identify people that may be interested in your Tree Ottawa

project.

Organize your own Janes Walk focusing on trees.

Attend a tree walk with Hidden Harvest Ottawa.

Organize an information meeting in your community on issues facing Ottawas trees

(e.g. Emerald Ash Borer).

Organize a heritage walkFind an expert to tell you more about the old(er) and special

trees in your neighbourhood.

Organize a Name your tree event an interactive tour around your neighbourhood

identifying all the trees and tagging them.

Community

LeadersTree Ottawa Teams

Ecology

Ottawa

programsHow toengage your

community?

Adopt-a-tree Plant-a-tree

CommunityMeeting

(e.g. Janes Walk, EAB infomeeting, HHO, etc)


10/34


24 June 2013

10

Key Act iv i t ies

Once you have identified people that want to be part of your Tree Ottawa Team, you can use

the following activities to engage those people further. You can pick either of these programs orchoose to combine them:

Plant-a-tree

Adopt-a-tree

Harvest-a-tree through Hidden Harvest Ottawa

Plant-a-tree

The plant-a-tree program consists of two components:

1- Plant your own tree in your neighbourhood;

or

2- Participate in a tree planting event.

If you want to plant a tree in your own neighbourhood youll need to follow several important

steps to ensure the successful planting and establishing of your tree. The most important aspect

of planting a tree in the city is finding appropriate land and obtaining permission from the

owner of the land in which you wish to plant a tree. In addition, you need to give notice to the

City of Ottawa well in advance of your planting (the deadline for notifying of fall planting events

is AUGUST 1st).

Another important thing to keep in mind is that there are preferred times to plant trees (spring

and fall). It is therefore recommended to schedule your planting event accordingly.

A more detailed guide of the step-by-step process for planting a treeis given below:

1. Find appropriate land

o Walk around your neighbourhood and find a good site. Consider the following

constraints when choosing your site:

Is there enough space? (Other trees or obstacles must be a minimum of

7m away.)

Are there overhead or underground utilities?

Are there any conflicting uses on the planting site?

Is there an obvious conflict with traffic safety requirements or City

maintenance (i.e. Sight lines or snow removal operations)?

2. Verify that the land is appropriate for a new tree:

o Get an expert to check whether the soil quality is acceptable for tree growth.

o What species will have the greatest chance of success?

3. Find out who owns the land:

o The City of Ottawa has created an online map in which property zoning is given. You

can easily check whether the potential site will be on private land or on city owned


11/34


24 June 2013

11

landhttp://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/

o Call the City of Ottawa on 3-1-1 and ask to speak to a Development Information

Officer.

o In case of private ownership you can call the Ottawa Carleton Land Registry Office

on 613 239-1230 to get the name of the landowner (for a fee).

4. Get permission from land owners:

o You will need to approach businesses and private landowners differently; for both

situations you can use or adapt the draft letter attached the Common Appendices

Section at the end of this guide.

5. Give notice to the City of Ottawa by contacting 3-1-1:

o The Forestry Services of the City of Ottawa will need to check the possibility of

planting new trees in the proposed location. To ensure that they have enough time

to check this it is requested to submit your proposed location for a fall planting

before August 1st.

6. Secure approval for your proposed location. In order for you to be certain you can plant the

tree on someones land you would like to have a signed agreement between both parties. A

sample agreement is provided in the Common Appendices Section at the end of this guide.

7. Pick your tree. You should plant a species that is native to our region and well adapted to

our climate. Tree Ottawa Appendix I contains a Native Tree List, or you can also consult the

Native Tree Atlas of the Ministry of Natural Resources at:

(http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_0857

82.html?region=nativeSpecies

8. Attend a tree steward information session. Upon request, Ecology Ottawa will organize a

tree steward information session to inform people on the procedures related to planting a

tree.

9. PLANT YOUR TREE!

10.And care for it (see suggestions below).
http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/


12/34


24 June 2013

12

Do you want to plant a tree but are you not able to find appropriate land? The City of Ottawa

has provided us with a forest in which we can plant trees as well. If you are not able to find

enough sites for the trees you have or want to plant, you can participate in a tree-planting event

we will organize in this forest.


13/34


24 June 2013

13

Adopt-a-tree

The first two years after planting are crucial years in a young

trees life. Whether you have planted the tree yourself or havechosen to adopt a tree, caring for a tree means monitoring the

health of your tree to make sure that it has enough water and

that it is free of disease and pest problems. As well, you should

evaluate the trees growing structure and consider whether or

not any pruning of branches is required. By looking after a tree in

its early life, you will ensure its health and vigour in the long term

(from Trees for Life booklet).

A step-by-step process for adopting a tree is given below:

1. Select a tree:

o Walk around your neighbourhood and look for the trees that look like they can use

some nurturing, this will include recently planted trees. If you have recently planteda tree, you may want to adopt this tree and take care of it.

2. Find out on whose property the tree is standing:

o The City of Ottawa has created an online map in which property zoning is given. You

can easily check whether the tree you want to adopt is on private land or on city

owned landhttp://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/ .

o Call the City of Ottawa on 3-1-1 and ask to speak to a Development Information

Officer.

o In case of private ownership you can call the Ottawa Carleton Land Registry Office

on 613 239-1230 to get the name of the landowner (for a fee).

3. Get permission from the landowner to care for the tree you want to adopt.

4. Pledge to take care of the tree and sign a mutual agreement with the land owner - in order

for you to be certain you can take care of the tree that is not on your property you should

ideally have a signed agreement between both parties. A sample agreement is provided in

the Common Appendices Section at the end of this guide.

5. Attend a tree steward information session organized by Ecology Ottawa and read the Tree

Care guide book(Tree Ottawa Appendix II)

6. Document your tree:

o Take pictures of your tree at the beginning of your caring season.

o Map your tree and let us know where it is.

7. Tracking form:

o To keep track of what you have done to look after your tree, we strongly encourage

you to use the tracking form we have developed (see the Common Appendices

Section at the end of this guide).
http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/http://maps.ottawa.ca/geoOttawa/


14/34


24 June 2013

14

Harvest-a-tree

As part of the adopt-a-tree program within Tree Ottawa

you can decide to adopt a fruit or nut tree, and harvest itunder the Hidden Harvest Ottawa program. In addition to

the tasks described above as the caretaker of your tree, you

can be trained to be a Lead Harvester with Hidden Harvest

Ottawa (ottawa.hiddenharvest.ca).

An important aspect of your project is to bring your successes, lessons and potential complaints

to your local councillor and community. See section III above for ideas on how to share with

your Community Association and others.

Resources

Tree nurseries and other sources of trees

Where Contact details $ Notes

Connaught

Nursery

Address: 1671 Micksburg Rd RR5,

Cobden, K0J 1K0

phone: 6136462386

e-mail:[email protected]

www.connaughtnursery.com

Prices upon

request

Ferguson Forest

Centre

Address: 275 Country Road 44,

Kemptville, K0G 1J0

phone: 6132580110


http://www.seedlingnursery.com/

Between $0.80

and $3.00 per

tree, depending

on species and

quantity.

Minimum

order is 50

trees

Gottard Farm &

Nursery

Address: RR#2, Dalkeith, K0B 1E0

phone: 6138742662


Upon request Wholesale

only

Peter Knippel

Garden Centre

Address: 4590 Bank Street, Ottawa, K1T

3W6

phone: 6138220383


http://knippelgardencentre.com/plant-

guide/

Range between

$29.95 -

$299.00

Corry LakeNursery

Address: 1000 Clouthier Road, ChalkRiver, K0J 1J0

phone: 6135899909

Catalogue onrequest

Devra Rayvals Address: 64 George Street, Brockville,

K6V 3V5

phone: 6133454714


Online ordering
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.connaughtnursery.com/http://www.connaughtnursery.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.seedlingnursery.com/http://www.seedlingnursery.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://knippelgardencentre.com/plant-guide/http://knippelgardencentre.com/plant-guide/http://knippelgardencentre.com/plant-guide/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://knippelgardencentre.com/plant-guide/http://knippelgardencentre.com/plant-guide/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.seedlingnursery.com/mailto:[email protected]://www.connaughtnursery.com/mailto:[email protected]


15/34


24 June 2013

15

Forget-me-Not

Herbs 'n

Wildflowers

Address:R.R. #2, 1920 Beach Road,

Oxford Mills, K0G 1S0

Phone Number:613.258.1246

Email:[email protected]

Pick up only

Gardens North Address: 5984 Third Line Rd. N., North

Gower, K0A 2T0

phone: 6134890065


http://www.gardensnorth.com/site/

Between 8-50

seeds for $4.25

Online

orders

seeds only

Rideau Nursery Address: 6986 McCordick Road, RR#2,

North Gower, K0A 2T0

phone: 6134890396


www.rideaunursery.com

Upon request Pick up at

nursery

Ottawa Field-

Naturalists Clubs

Annual native plant sale at the Fletcher

Wildlife Garden

City of OttawaTrees in Trust http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-

and-environment/trees-and-community-

forests/trees-trustor call 3-1-1

Schoolyard Tree

Planting Grant

Program

http://ottawa.ca/en/city-

hall/funding/environmental-program-

funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-

programor call

-Kendra Labrosse (east wards) on 613-

580-2424 extension 15232

-Jennifer Shepherd (west wards) on 613-

580-2424 extension 13771

Tree Ottawa Champions

Input from a group of notable tree and environmental leaders can be accessed through Ecology

Ottawa to share expertise and ideas about increasing Ottawas treescape.

Diane Beresford-Kroeger is a botanist, medical biochemist who brings

together ethnobotany, horticulture, spirituality and alternative

medicine to reveal a path toward better stewardship of the natural

world. A resident of the Kemptville area, she is among the most

prominent tree thinkers on the Planet. Her books include The Global

Forest, Arboretum Borealis and Arboretum America: A Philosophy of theForest.

Michael Rosen is the President of Tree Canada, responsible for securing

private and public partnerships, overall project management,

governance and chief of Board and stakeholder relations. Michael has

more than 20 years of experience and was Vice-President of Tree

Canada since 2002. Previously he was a Stewardship Coordinator and
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.gardensnorth.com/site/http://www.gardensnorth.com/site/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.rideaunursery.com/http://www.rideaunursery.com/http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/funding/environmental-program-funding/schoolyard-tree-planting-grant-programhttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://www.rideaunursery.com/mailto:[email protected]://www.gardensnorth.com/site/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


16/34


24 June 2013

16

Forester for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources where he

received the Amethyst Award for his work especially during the 1998 ice

storm.

Mark Cullen is Canada's best-known gardener connecting with over one

million Canadians weekly through his many varied media outlets.

Whether it is through his weekly CTV morning show Sement, his many

on-line postings or his numerous books, his personable style and topical

information has captivated audiences and continued to garner him fans

across Canada. Cullen not only helps everyday Canadians grow organic,

healthy produce but, due to his well-known sense of social

responsibility, actively participates in local, provincial and international

developmental and educational programs.

Chris Henderson is an Ottawa-based eco-entrepreneur. He leads two of

Canadas most forward-thinking companies in the domains of clean

energy, climate change, environment and sustainability. Locally, Chrishas headed most of major business organizations in the City and is very

active with environmental initiatives from 1000 Solar Rooftops to the 3i

Summit. Chris will play a role connecting Tree Ottawa Champions with

the initiative.

Head gardener to a 30 year succession of Canadian Governors General

and Prime Ministers, for more than two decades Ed Lawrence has

shared his encyclopedic knowledge of the horticultural world with

callers to CBC Radios weekly noon-hour phone-in gardening show, one

of the longest running and most popular segments in Canadian

broadcast history. This veteran Gardening Guru has compiled the bestof those queries and answers into practical, hands-on books about

horticultural peril and redemption.

Further readings and information

Books:

Diane Beresford-Kroeger- The Global Forest

Diane Beresford-Kroeger -Arboretum Borealis

Diane Beresford-Kroeger- Arboretum America: A Philosophy of the Forest

Websites:

City of Ottawa - OFGAC Native Trees and Shrubs Database

http://www.ofnc.ca/ofgac/displaytreelisten.php

Ministry of Natural ResourcesNative Tree Atlas

http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.ht

ml?region=nativeSpecies

Ottawa Gardening and Plant links:http://www.ottawahort.org/links.htm

City of Ottawa trees in trust program:http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-
http://www.ofnc.ca/ofgac/displaytreelisten.phphttp://www.ofnc.ca/ofgac/displaytreelisten.phphttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.ottawahort.org/links.htmhttp://www.ottawahort.org/links.htmhttp://www.ottawahort.org/links.htmhttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://www.ottawahort.org/links.htmhttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/STDPROD_085782.html?region=nativeSpecieshttp://www.ofnc.ca/ofgac/displaytreelisten.php


17/34


24 June 2013

17

environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trust

Project Partners:

Project partners for this initiative will include:

Hidden Harvest Ottawa,

Permaculture Ottawa,

City of Ottawas Forestry Department,

National Capital Commission,

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority,

Sierra Youth Coalitions Sustainable High Schools Project

List o f Tree Ottawa Append ices

Tree Ottawa Appendix I: Native tree list

Tree Ottawa Appendix II: Tree care guidebookTree Ottawa Appendix III: Plant a tree

Tree Ottawa Appendix IV: Tree Care Tracking Form

Available in the Appendix section at the end of this guide.
http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trusthttp://ottawa.ca/en/residents/water-and-environment/trees-and-community-forests/trees-trust


18/34


24 June 2013

18

Healthy Watersheds

Int roduct ion

Water makes up over 50% of the human body, and covers over 75% of the Earths

surface. It is part of our everyday life, and is an essential aspect in most peoples leisure

activities. Although water covers the majority of the Earths surface, and is a major

component of our atmosphere, very little of it is in a usable form. Only about

2.5 percent of the worlds water is fresh water and the total usablefreshwater supply for ecosystems and humans is less than 1 percent!

In Canada we have one of the worlds most ample supplies of usable fresh

water, but we can readily see the impact we have had on our watersheds.

In almost any local waterway we can see signs of human influence: sewage,

garbage, bridges, over-eroded shores, invasive species, etc.

The pollution you see may not have originated in your area. Pollution has no borders,

and what we do to our streams and rivers influences others down the watershed. However, with

little effort a small group of people could drastically improve the health and vitality of a local

stream. Something as simple as a stream-clean-up day could improve the ecosystem for wildlife

and humans alike!

Through the Healthy Watershed Initiative, Ecology Ottawa volunteers can help clean up and

better protect our local watersheds. This Healthy Watershed Initiative will support the work of

the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) by enabling community teams to Adopt-a-

Stream in their neighbourhood and then take things a little further! Over 23 creeks and streams

run through communities across Ottawa and to date only 2 of these 23+ streams have been

adopted. The adopt-a-stream idea came from the RVCA`s City Stream Watch program. The City

Stream Watch program was implemented as a project focused on gathering data about RVCA

streams in-between their 6-year monitoring cycle. Generally speaking, this involves walking,

wading, or boating the length of the selected stream at least once a year and observing its

condition relative to the last survey. Results are documented and communicated to the RVCA`sCity Stream Watch Coordinator. In addition to this, neighbourhood teams can carry out clean-up

and other activities to enhance the protection of their local watershed.

As a community organizer you can use this guide to help you implement the Healthy

Watersheds initiative in your neighbourhood. This guide is meant to provide examples of how to

organize your project and hands-on information and resources you might need, but you can

always take a different path.


19/34


24 June 2013

19

Process and Timel ines: How c an you p romote Healthy

Watersheds?

Below is a flow chart of the general process of how to organize an event in your local

community. It is a multi-step process, and each step will be explained in more detail.

Relationship with RVCAThe Rideau Valley Conservation Authority will be a key member in the

Adopt-a-Stream process. It was their idea to engage communities and inspire them to become

stewards for their local streams, and they are the experts on what needs to get done. Your

relationship with the RVCA is well explained in the CSW Adopt-a-Stream Form Agreementthat

they have drafted specifically for this process. You will need to sign this agreement, and any

questions that you have pertaining to its contents can be explained.

The first step you need to take is to engage with your community and find people who are

interested in helping save your local waterway. This can be accomplished in a variety of different

ways;

Going door-to-door to talk to people about what you are hoping to do and inviting them

to join you at your community meeting.

Creating a Facebook group around your local waterway and its health status.

Contacting local environmentally focused groups and associations to see if they would

be interested in helping your efforts.


20/34


24 June 2013

20

Ideally, you want to organize a Community Meeting to discuss your and your neighbours ideas

on how to green-up your waterway.

Community MeetingThis is where you will have the chance to recruit more volunteers. It is

therefore important to have a well-planned and organized meeting. At the meeting it would be

good for you to have guest speakers that are relevant to your community, and relevant to the

cause: a local politician, an expert on local water issues. Someone from Ecology Ottawa would

most likely attend as well. Your meeting can follow any format you choose, but be sure to state

your objectives clearly and take notes.

Identification of Team membersAt the Community Meeting you want to identify those who

want to join the cause and become your Healthy Watersheds Team. As a group you will become

stewards of your local waterway, and help restore and protect your stream.

Develop Work PlanIt is important to come up with a plan to execute the Healthy Watershed

Initiative in the best way possible for your neighbourhood. This can happen at the Community

Meeting or afterwards. Your work plan should include:

The type of healthy watershed strategy that is right for your community.

Date, time and place of the activities you plan.

How you will advertise the activities and involve the rest of the community, if

needed.

The equipment and materials you need to implement your plan.

A budget.

Key Ac t iv i t ies

Below are some of the many ways in which you can positively influence your neighbourhoodstreams and waterways! It is important to know that you do not need to be next to a waterway

to make a difference in your local watershed. For communities that cannot Adopt-a-Stream due

to lack of access, do not fret! There is much that you can do to improve your waterway without

having to directly improve the stream. Much of the pollution that enters into your local

waterway comes from polluted rainwater run-off. Healthy Watershed Teams will organize

hands-on demonstrations of installations of rain barrels, permeable pavements, or community

rain gardens.In the resources section you will find specific websites and approximate prices for

these strategies.

Adopt-a-Stream Monitoring

For this program all that is required is for you to either walk, or boatalong your adopted waterway and record your observations. During

this time the Stream Watcher (you and your team) shall observe the

stream and banks and document any instances of significant change,

such as increased erosion or pollution, from the previous year. A simple

report/form, supplied by the Stream watch Coordinator, shall be

completed. If you see any litter, it is hoped that you would pick it up OR

enlist the aid of Ecology Ottawa to help organize a Stream Clean-up day!


21/34


24 June 2013

21

Creek/Stream Clean-ups

An easy and fun way to have a huge impact on your local stream is to remove the litter in it. For

this type of stream restoration all you need is garbage bags, gloves, and enthusiastic people! If

you already have a group of people who are willing to get their hands dirty for the sake of

Healthy Watersheds, then planning a stream clean-up will take little time to organize. This maynot be the case in every situation. If you want to plan a clean-up but are not sure where to find

the people, there are a few ways that you can go about locating willing and enthusiastic

members of your community. Do some research into finding outdoors clubs, local Scouts or

Guides groups, and outdoor enthusiasts like cycling, kayaking, canoeing groups, or an

environmental committee in your area. These associations will usually have a website where

you can post your event, or you will get in contact with a key member and ask them when their

group meets so you can talk to them about your event. Once these relationships have been

established, the rest comes easily!

If you want to reach out to more than local

associations and groups please see the

OUTREACH AND MEDIAsection on Page 6 of this

manual for instructions on how to get the

word out to the greater masses. Ecology

Ottawa will help advertise this event to get

people of your surrounding community to

come and help pick up trash for the greater

good of your stream.

After the clean-up is over there is still work to

be done. For example: where does all the trash you have collected go? You must call 311 and

inform the city of your clean-up, they will give you directions from there. You may have found

some hazardous waste like needles, or razors. If this happens, again, inform the city and theywill instruct you further. If you have any questions before the clean-up starts you can always

contact Ecology Ottawa, and we would be happy to answer your questions or assist you in trying

to answer the question together!

Downspout Disconnection/Redirection

What is a downspout? If you look on the roofs of houses you will

see something that looks similar to the picture to the right. This is a

downspout, and by improving how you use the water coming out

of it, you can drastically reduce the amount of storm water

reaching the treatment plant!

When it rains, buildings and houses that have eves troughs will

have a high volume of water discharging from their downspouts.

This water will drain directly into the storm sewer system and

increase the volume of water attempting to reach the wastewater

treatment plant. Instead, this water can easily be disconnected and

redirected to your lawn or a more pervious area, where it can be


22/34


24 June 2013

22

absorbed. In addition, you can use a splash-guard to drain the water evenly and slowly over your

lawn or the pervious substrate. Below is a diagram showing how easy it is to redirect your

downspout so it runs over your lawn instead!

Alternatively, you can create a more pervious area for the water to dissipate. A pervious area

may be a rock patch that leads to a flower, herb or vegetable garden and water it. A rock garden

on the side of your house also has an aesthetic appeal.

Rain Barrel Installation

An excellent way to use the water from your roof, and decrease the amount of water entering

the sewage system is to catch the water for later use. A rain barrel is a phenomenal way to

gather water for your garden, plants, vegetables, or even washing your car and bicycles! The

idea is very similar to the pervious downspout redirection, but you attach a rain barrel to your

downspout to store the water. This will require you to have a few items in order for this to work

including a hack saw and a rain barrel. It is important to note that if you will be catching water

and let it sit, then you have to consider how you will deal with mosquitoes. Sitting water is the

perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, so you must make sure that your rain barrel has a


23/34


24 June 2013

23

mosquito mesh covering. Below is a diagram of the final product, and to the right is a photo of a

rain barrel in practice.

Rain gardens

A rain garden is a planted depression or a hole that allows rainwater from impervious

urban areas, like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and compacted lawn areas,

the opportunity to be absorbed. This reduces rain runoff by allowing storm water to

soak into the ground (as opposed to flowing into storm drains and surface waters which

causes erosion, water pollution, flooding, and diminished groundwater). A rain gardenwill also help reduce pollution because certain plants and flowers take-up heavy metals

from the environment, and make the local area look aesthetically pleasing.

Rain gardens can be designed for specific soils and

climates and can cut down on the amount of pollution

reaching creeks and streams by up to 30%! Not only

do they look beautiful, but they also attract wildlife

such as birds and other pollinators.

Having a local rain garden next to a community

keystone like a Church or School is a great way for

everyone to work together to reduce run-off and

green the community.


24/34


24 June 2013

24

Permeable Pavements

When it rains on a concrete or other non-permeable

surface the water runs right off and is directed into the

sewer. On its way to the sewers this water picks up

pollutants like gas, oil, heavy metals and transports themto the sewage treatment plant. This high volume of water

and pollution stresses the water treatment plant, but it is

avoidable. The natural ground is a great receptor for

water and can act as a filter. If we replace the concrete

and impermeable asphalt with permeable surfaces, some

of the water would be stored in the ground below and

retained in the natural hydrological system.

Unlike traditional asphalt or concrete, permeable

pavement is porous; it allows water to run through itrather than pool on top or run off it. Water percolates, as in a coffee pot, when it seeps

through the permeable pavement to a cleansing layer of gravel. The gravel or stone acts

as a natural filter, clearing the water of pollutants.

There are three types of permeable pavements:

1. Traditional asphalt/concrete-- This is the

standard mix without fine particles to make it

more porous.

2. Plastic pavers-- These plastic grids have a

honeycomb shape. Once installed, grass or other

vegetation can grow through the holes.3. Concrete pavers-- Concrete blocks with spaces in

between them. These spaces allow for better

drainage and water permeability.

When installed as part of an overall system, permeable pavement can even eliminate

the need for curb gutters and storm sewers. Flooding concerns lessen, as rainwater

soaks into the ground.

Permeable pavement has many applications. Common uses include driveways,

emergency access lanes, public parks, alleys, parking lots and bike or walking paths.

Fol low-up

An important aspect of your project is to bring your successes, lessons and perhaps complaints,

to your local councillor and community. See section III above for ideas on how to share your

experience with your Community Association and others.


25/34


24 June 2013

25

Resources

This Guidebook is by no means a comprehensive information package. There is tons of

information out there about different ideas, strategies, sample projects, success stories and

failures. The internet is teeming with these kinds of information so if you have any further

questions about your particular project you can look it up!

For the specific strategies that we have outlined in our Guidebook we have some local resources

for obtaining goods! Below is a list of the local suppliersof the tools and materials required to

carry out some of the Healthy Watersheds projects described in this guide.

Splash Guards: Canadian tire sells these for around $10, but other retailers will sell

them as well for a similar cost.

http://canadiantire.ca

Rain Barrels:This website is for a local supplier of rain barrels and rain barrel products

for around $50. This particular company supports local scouts groups by supplying therain barrels to them to sell to citizens. If you purchase your rain barrel from them, you

support your community!

http://rainbarrel.ca/

Rain Gardens:Website for a local nursery that grows native plants of the Ottawa area,

the price depends on what size garden you wish to plant and which plants you wish to

plant! You can have a small garden for $50 that covers 120-160 ft2 (11-15m2). If you

have the funds you can double/triple the square footage to suit your needs.

http://fullerplants.com/index.php

Permeable Pavements:The cost of installing permeable paving is influenced by the

homeowners choice of materials. For example, for ground reinforcement grids made of

a strong durable concrete, the cost will rise for the material and also for the installation.

Permeable paving can be installed by do-it-yourselfers, but it is vital that the

homeowner has a good understanding of what material will work best for the site, the

type of soil and the ideal depth of layers. Installing permeable concrete can be a difficult

task depending on your site conditions and the area.

Website for a local paving company:

http://www.permacon.ca/home.html

Contacts: RVCA City Stream Watch Coordinator: Chelsey Ellis, 613-692-3571 ext. 1180,[email protected]
http://canadiantire.ca/http://canadiantire.ca/http://rainbarrel.ca/http://rainbarrel.ca/http://fullerplants.com/index.phphttp://fullerplants.com/index.phphttp://www.permacon.ca/home.htmlhttp://www.permacon.ca/home.htmlmailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.permacon.ca/home.htmlhttp://fullerplants.com/index.phphttp://rainbarrel.ca/http://canadiantire.ca/


26/34


24 June 2013

26

Active Transportation

Int roduct ion

Active transportation refers to any form of human-

powered transportationwalking, cycling, using a

wheelchair, in-line skating or skateboarding, ice-skating,

skiing, etc. There are many ways to engage in active

transportation, whether it is walking to the bus stop, or

cycling to school or to work.

Walking, cycling and other active modes of transportation

promote healthy households and contribute to bustling,

complete communities. Active transportation provides an

opportunity to be physically active on a regular basis and

increases social interactions. It helps to reduce stress.

Transportation choices also have a significant impact on

the environment, with fossil fuel engines of cars and

trucks contributing up to 34% of Ottawas greenhouse gas

emissions (GHG). Active transportation reduces GHG

emissions and other pollution directly by taking cars offthe road, and also by reducing road congestion and the

extra emissions it causes. Active transportation saves

money on gas and parking. Public transportation has

many of the same advantages and can be combined with

active transportation. For example, making routes to

reach bus stops more walkable or ensuring all buses have

baskets for bikes are ways to encourage people to use

public transportation.

The Ecology Ottawa Active Transportation Initiative seeks to promote healthier and safer

transport in Ottawas neighbourhoods. As a community organizer you can use this guide to helpyou implement the initiative in your neighbourhood. This section provides examples of

neighbourhood assessments and other activities to promote active transportation in the

community, but you can always take a different path.


27/34


24 June 2013

27

Process and Timel ines: How can you p romote Act ive

Transpor tat ion?

The chart below is an example the main steps involved in implementing the Active

Transportation initiative in your neighbourhood. Getting your community involved is one of your

first priorities.

The overall process is as follows:

1. Create an Active Transportation Team by recruiting

volunteers in your neighbourhood.

2. Decide as a team what activities you want to carry

out

3. Plan the activities: select date (and rain date), place,

tools or materials needed, resource people; assign

tasks among your team.

4. Publicize the activities you are organizing, ifapplicable.

5. Carry out your activities.

6. Share your experience with Ecology Ottawa and

perhaps others.


28/34


24 June 2013

28

Key Act iv i t ies

We have explored two main types of activities you can carry out

to promote active transportation in your community:

celebratory events and neighbourhood assessments. Examples

of each are provided below, but remember you can alwayschoose a different approach.

Events to celebrate active transportation in your neighbourhood

Active Transportation Teams can organize events in their communities to celebrate active

transportation and create awareness and interest among residents. Examples of celebratory

events include:

Participate in Janes Walk Ottawa, a pedestrian-focused event that improves urban

literacy by offering insights into local history, planning, design, and civic engagement

through the simple act of walking and observing.This event is usually held in early May.http://www.janeswalkottawa.ca/view/?home.

Organize similar neighbourhood walking, cycling, line-skating, ice-skating or other active

transportation tour around your neighbourhood.

Encourage your community to participate in Car-free Dayon September 22:

http://ontario.sierraclub.ca/en/car-free-day.

Organize anActive Transportation Weekin your community to promote a better mix of

transport options and showcase ideas and success stories (for ideas and inspiration, see

European Mobility Weeks athttp://www.mobilityweek.eu)and

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55yhNqMtdxA&feature=player_detailpage;as well asEquiterres Transport Cocktailinitiative at

http://www.mouvementcollectif.org/en/gestes_verts/cocktail-transport. Set up a walking school bus to encourage kids to walk to school in a safe and fun

environment. Seehttp://guide.saferoutesinfo.org/walking_school_bus/;and watchthis video on the London, ON project:

http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=9&gid=82293

Organize or participate in Clean Air Day, normally celebrated the first week of June.

Organize a community group to participate in Ottawas cycling festival on June 1-2,

starting in your neighbourhood:http://www.capitalvelofest.ca

Organize a Fix-your-bike workshop/day.

Organize a family bike chase.

Promote bikes as vehicles, not just as a means for recreation.

Conduct a neighbourhood active transportation assessment (see details below). Get people to sign Ecology Ottawas Complete Streets Petitionby organizing a petition

drive, a meeting on complete streets, etc.

http://ecologyottawa.nationbuilder.com/complete_streets_for_ottawa_petition
http://www.janeswalkottawa.ca/view/?homehttp://www.janeswalkottawa.ca/view/?homehttp://ontario.sierraclub.ca/en/car-free-dayhttp://ontario.sierraclub.ca/en/car-free-dayhttp://www.mobilityweek.eu/http://www.mobilityweek.eu/http://www.mobilityweek.eu/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55yhNqMtdxA&feature=player_detailpagehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55yhNqMtdxA&feature=player_detailpagehttp://www.mouvementcollectif.org/en/gestes_verts/cocktail-transporthttp://www.mouvementcollectif.org/en/gestes_verts/cocktail-transporthttp://guide.saferoutesinfo.org/walking_school_bus/http://guide.saferoutesinfo.org/walking_school_bus/http://guide.saferoutesinfo.org/walking_school_bus/http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=9&gid=82293http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=9&gid=82293http://www.capitalvelofest.ca/http://www.capitalvelofest.ca/http://www.capitalvelofest.ca/http://ecologyottawa.nationbuilder.com/complete_streets_for_ottawa_petitionhttp://ecologyottawa.nationbuilder.com/complete_streets_for_ottawa_petitionhttp://ecologyottawa.nationbuilder.com/complete_streets_for_ottawa_petitionhttp://www.capitalvelofest.ca/http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=9&gid=82293http://guide.saferoutesinfo.org/walking_school_bus/http://www.mouvementcollectif.org/en/gestes_verts/cocktail-transporthttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55yhNqMtdxA&feature=player_detailpagehttp://www.mobilityweek.eu/http://ontario.sierraclub.ca/en/car-free-dayhttp://www.janeswalkottawa.ca/view/?home


29/34


24 June 2013

29

Neighbourhood Active Transportation Assessments

A persons ability to choose sustainable methods of transportation such as public

transportation, cycling, walking, rollerblading, etc. depends on the nature of the built

environment or the area and on whether the right infrastructure is in place to ensure the safety

and accessibility of active transportation.

Neighbourhood assessments are a relatively simple tool to evaluate how accessible for active

transportation a neighbourhood is. An assessment is normally conducted by taking a walk or

bike ride through a planned route in a neighbourhood while taking notes of the positive and

negative aspects of the walk or ride and of things that might improve it. Improvements that the

City of Ottawa normally has resources to carry out

may include: signage (speed signs, school signs, share

the road, etc.), painting (lines, bike lanes, pedestrian

crosswalks, etc.), visibility issues (tree trimming, etc.)

and alterations of traffic light cycles to facilitate

pedestrian crossing. The city also welcome feedback

on sidewalk improvements, speed bumps, potholes,

and bike lanes, which they will take into consideration

when planning more comprehensive projects.

You can team up with cycling groups to carry out an assessment that covers walking and cycling.

You can also carry out a simple survey in your neighbourhood to identify the perceptions of your

neighbours about active transportation possibilities in your community. Do they practice active

transportation? What kind? How often? If not, why?

The main steps to prepare for a neighbourhood assessmentare:

1. Self-identify the boundaries of your neighbourhood and the area you want to assess.

2. Define what your objectives are: what do you want to accomplish with yourassessment?

3. Think about the time of year, since conditions may vary considerably. You may want to

repeat your assessment in different seasons.

4. Review the different tools that exist for carrying out a neighbourhood assessment and

choose the one that best fits your needs.

The main objectives you can have for your neighbourhood assessment, could include:

To encourage active transportation in the community by making residents aware of the

opportunities and challenges of moving through the city without their cars.

To identify areas where sustainable transportation choices would be enhanced through

small upgrades to infrastructure (like signage, painting, light cycles, visibility issues,sidewalks, bike lanes, speed bumps, and potholes) and to communicate your

suggestions to the City.

There are many resources available to assess a community from the perspectives of walkability

and active transportation. Ecology Ottawa reviewed many walkability audit tools and we put

together our own checklist. The 2 toolsthat follow are our preferred options and other

suggestions are included in the resources section further below.


30/34


24 June 2013

30

The Ecology Ottawa Active Transportation Checklist The 2 tables Ecology Ottawa put

together capture the minimum suggested information for Active Transportation Teams

to collect during neighbourhood assessments in order to better understand how

suitable their neighbourhood is for active transportation and to identify possible small

infrastructure upgrades that the City of Ottawa can carry out to facilitate active

transportation. (The checklist is available as Active Transportation Appendix 1)

Built Environment & Active Transportation (B.E.A.T.) Neighbourhood Assessment

This tool is more comprehensive than the Ecology Ottawa checklist. It was prepared by

BC Recreation and Parks Association and the Union of BC Municipalities and it is

designed to help communities, local governments and individuals understand how the

built environment impacts active transportation in their neighbourhoods as a starting

point to identify healthy and not-so-healthy elements of their neighbourhoods and to

support better decision-making. It provides a detailed checklist to assess a

neighbourhood through a straightforward ranking of the different elements that impact

active transportation in the neighbourhood. It also includes good tools to understand

the results and suggestions for follow-up. (Active Transportation Appendix 2)http://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/pdfs/BEAT/B.E.A.T.Neighbourhood_Asse

ssment.pdf

Consider using or adapting one of these tools for your own neighbourhood assessment. When

planning your neighbourhood assessment, think about how you will record the variations in the

conditions you find along your route. For example: lighting or sidewalks may be very good in one

section and terrible in another. Make sure you have additional notepaper or some other way to

record these and other variations, in addition to your checklist.

Fol low u pAfter conducting the neighbourhood assessment, Active Transportation Teams should consider

getting together to discuss their findings. They should also contemplate what actions could be

taken to address the issues identified, and how to continue monitoring and improving active

transportation in their neighbourhoods. Others in the community can be invited to this

discussion as well, by organizing a community meeting, etc. Follow up actions may include, for

example:

Sharing the findings and recommendations with the local Community Association (if

they havent already taken part in the process).

Sharing the findings and recommendations for infrastructure upgrades with local

councillors.http://ottawa.ca/en/city-council Planning follow-up or additional assessments, for example during winter when active

transportation issues will be different.

Reporting the following sidewalk and path maintenance issues to the City, online at

http://ottawa.ca/en/serviceottawa/roads-and-transportation/sidewalk-and-

path-maintenance:- Pathways not plowed or sanded
http://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/pdfs/BEAT/B.E.A.T.Neighbourhood_Assessment.pdfhttp://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/pdfs/BEAT/B.E.A.T.Neighbourhood_Assessment.pdfhttp://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/pdfs/BEAT/B.E.A.T.Neighbourhood_Assessment.pdfhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-councilhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-councilhttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-councilhttp://ottawa.ca/en/serviceottawa/roads-and-transportation/sidewalk-and-path-maintenancehttp://ottawa.ca/en/serviceottawa/roads-and-transportation/sidewalk-and-path-maintenancehttp://ottawa.ca/en/serviceottawa/roads-and-transportation/sidewalk-and-path-maintenancehttp://ottawa.ca/en/serviceottawa/roads-and-transportation/sidewalk-and-path-maintenancehttp://ottawa.ca/en/serviceottawa/roads-and-transportation/sidewalk-and-path-maintenancehttp://ottawa.ca/en/city-councilhttp://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/pdfs/BEAT/B.E.A.T.Neighbourhood_Assessment.pdfhttp://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/pdfs/BEAT/B.E.A.T.Neighbourhood_Assessment.pdf


31/34


24 June 2013

31

- Slippery or icy surfaces

- Sidewalks in disrepair

- Blocked or flooded sidewalks or pathways

- Litter or debris on sidewalks or pathways

Reporting problems on the Ottawa walking problems website at

http://ottawawalkingproblems.ca/report

Sharing the findings and recommendations, through posters or presentations, at other

Active Transportation events organized in the community.

Add i t ional Resources

Active Neighborhood Checklist:This checklist was developed at Saint Louis University School

of Public Health, 2006. The Active Neighborhood Checklist is an observational tool designed

to assess key street-level features of the neighborhood environment that are thought to be

related to physical activity behavior. This tool goes beyond walkability and transportation,

but the checklist provided on these elements is comprehensive. This tool may be best for

teams that want to carry out a more comprehensive assessment of their neighbourhood.

http://www.activeforlife.info/generations/Resources/Toolkits/Active%20Neighborh

ood%20Checklist.pdf

How walkable is your community?:This is part of the Walkfriendly Designation program

being run by Canada WalksWalk Friendly OntarioGreen Communities Canada. This tool

is a very simple checklist for ranking the walkability of a neighbourhood. It isnt geared

towards identifying infrastructure improvements, or to assessing the community from a

broader active transportation perspective beyond walkability. If the city of Ottawa decides

to participate in the How walkableprogram, this would be the tool communities would be

asked to use and submit.

http://icanwalk.ca/files/upload/brochure_ENG_withlogos_cover_Rev.pdf

US Neighborhood Walkability Checklist:This tool is focused on identifying obstacles towalking that residents might face and has a good section with suggestions to improve

problems, short and long term. It is not focused on the broader active transportation

concept.

http://www.walkinginfo.org/library/details.cfm?id=12

Walkability Checklistfrom Australias Heart Foundation This tool is also focused only on

walkability. It a straightforward but complete checklist that enables users to rate their

walking experience in their neighbourhood and identify specific problems. It includes a

template letter to the local council to share the results of the audit.

http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/active-living/Documents/Neightbouthood-

walkability-checklist.pdf

Walk Ottawa: This website by a group of citizen volunteers provides a venue to discuss

walkability and map problems throughout the city.http://ottawawalkingproblems.ca
http://www.activeforlife.info/generations/Resources/Toolkits/Active%20Neighborhood%20Checklist.pdfhttp://www.activeforlife.info/generations/Resources/Toolkits/Active%20Neighborhood%20Checklist.pdfhttp://www.activeforlife.info/generations/Resources/Toolkits/Active%20Neighborhood%20Checklist.pdfhttp://icanwalk.ca/files/upload/brochure_ENG_withlogos_cover_Rev.pdfhttp://icanwalk.ca/files/upload/brochure_ENG_withlogos_cover_Rev.pdfhttp://www.walkinginfo.org/library/details.cfm?id=12http://www.walkinginfo.org/library/details.cfm?id=12http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/active-living/Documents/Neightbouthood-walkability-checklist.pdfhttp://www.heartfoundation.org.au/active-living/Documents/Neightbouthood-walkability-checklist.pdfhttp://www.heartfoundation.org.au/active-living/Documents/Neightbouthood-walkability-checklist.pdfhttp://ottawawalkingproblems.ca/http://ottawawalkingproblems.ca/http://ottawawalkingproblems.ca/http://ottawawalkingproblems.ca/http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/active-living/Documents/Neightbouthood-walkability-checklist.pdfhttp://www.heartfoundation.org.au/active-living/Documents/Neightbouthood-walkability-checklist.pdfhttp://www.walkinginfo.org/library/details.cfm?id=12http://icanwalk.ca/files/upload/brochure_ENG_withlogos_cover_Rev.pdfhttp://www.activeforlife.info/generations/Resources/Toolkits/Active%20Neighborhood%20Checklist.pdfhttp://www.activeforlife.info/generations/Resources/Toolkits/Active%20Neighborhood%20Checklist.pdf


32/34


24 June 2013

32

City of Ottawas Pedestrian Planhttp://ottawa.ca/en/ottawa-pedestrian-planadoptedin 2009.

Ottawa Neighbourhood Study: This is a comprehensive study of how Ottawas

neighbourhoods impact health in which walkability is but one aspect. The website contains

an interactive map that shows the walkability scores given to each neighbourhood under

this study and allows comparisons between neighbourhoods.

http://neighbourhoodstudy.ca/?page_id=3209

List of A ct ive Transpor tat ion App endices

Active Transportation Appendix 1Ecology Ottawa Active Transportation Checklist

Active Transportation Appendix 2Built Environment & Active Transportation (B.E.A.T.)

Neighbourhood Assessment

Active Transportation Appendix 3Long list of resources

Available in the Appendix section at the end of this guide
http://ottawa.ca/en/ottawa-pedestrian-planhttp://ottawa.ca/en/ottawa-pedestrian-planhttp://ottawa.ca/en/ottawa-pedestrian-planhttp://neighbourhoodstudy.ca/?page_id=3209http://neighbourhoodstudy.ca/?page_id=3209http://neighbourhoodstudy.ca/?page_id=3209http://ottawa.ca/en/ottawa-pedestrian-plan


33/34


24 June 2013

33

Eco Teams

Int roduct ion

Wasting energy undermines the local economy and helps drive air pollution and global warming.

Recent research shows that applying some health promotion and prevention strategies and

behaviour change models can contribute to more successful environmental stewardship

programmes, and that indeed changing environmental behaviour can improve not only the

environment but also human health.

This project is based upon a successful model established by the

Empowerment Institute. Over the past two decades the institute has

been developing behavior change programs and managing

community empowerment projects throughout the world. As a result

they have built up a substantial and rigorously tested body of

knowledge and experience about how to empower individuals,

neighborhoods and communities to adopt pro-environmental

behaviors, including the Low Carbon Diet.

Through Ecology Ottawas Eco Teams, working within the context of the Ecology OttawaCommunity Network, we will promote simple but effective ways Ottawans can reduce their

carbon footprint and foster more energy-wise communities.

Project DescriptionFirst, we will produce a Project Guide that clearly outlines the various project components and

provides step-by-step instructions on how Ecology Ottawa Neighbourhood Eco Teams can

calculate the carbon pounds lost due to their participation in the Low Carbon Diet program.

Second, we will systematically reach out to our current and emerging volunteers to invite them

to join an Eco Team. Third, Ecology Ottawa will work with interested

volunteer leaders (mainly our Community Organizers) in specific

neighbourhoods to develop a draft project work plan. The work planwill include initial objectives and timelines for each of the project

components. Fourth, Ecology Ottawa will support our Community

Organizers and their Neighbourhood Eco Teams to do the following:

1. Reach out to the community:

Ecology Ottawa Community Organizers, in cooperation with other interested volunteers, will

reach out within their community to describe the Low Carbon diet program, seek feedback, and


34/34


24 June 2013

invite people to join an Eco Team. This will include meetings with local institutions and leaders

such as community associations, city councillors and staff, community centres, other local

organizations and faith-based groups. This will also include direct public outreach in the

community through door-to-door engagement, local newspapers, newsletters and social media.

2. Establish a Neighbourhood Eco Team:

During the initial outreach period people will be invited to attend a meeting that will establish

the Neighbourhood Eco Team. Participants will review and reassess the draft project work plan

for their neighbourhood and those that remain interested will be invited to formally join the

Neighbourhood Eco Team. The Eco Team will then assume overall responsibility for the execution

of the project in their neighbourhood and will plan to meet periodically throughout the life of the

project

3. Organize training days:

Ecology Ottawa will organize three trainings bringing together people from the Neighbourhood

Eco Teams and others. The trainings will be hosted by Greg Searle, Executive Director of

BioRegional North America, who will guide participants through a workbook that will allow themto calculate the carbon pounds lost due to their participation in the Low Carbon Diet. Mr. Searle

has participated in a six-month certification program led by the Empowerment Institute to qualify

him to lead the Eco Team/Low Carbon Diet trainings.

4. Adopt a low carbon diet and communicate the results:

The Eco Teams will reduce their carbon footprint themselves, and Eco Team Leaders will then

spread the word throughout their neighborhood and will recruit more people to participate in

taking the Low Carbon Diet.

More to Come!

Community Initiatives Guide-July 2013

Documents

Transcript of Community Initiatives Guide-July 2013