The Pinery Bluffs Subdivision is situated in a unique natural area that is ecologically significant and sensitive. As a resident of this community, you have the opportunity to participate in the stewardship of the surrounding natural area.
The information on this page is available as a downloadable PDF – Pinery Bluffs: Living in Harmony with Nature.
Oak Woodland and Oak Savannah
The predominant habitat type in the area is Oak Woodland. This habitat is characterized by a fairly open canopy of several species of Oak trees (Red, White, Black, Bur and Chinquapin Oak). In addition, Oak Savannah is present on the large sand dune that extends across the subdivision. This habitat is even more open than Oak Woodland, with scattered Oak trees and sunlight tolerant shrubs and ground covers.
Both Oak Woodland and Oak Savannah habitats are considered rare in Ontario. In addition, there are a number of rare plant species present on the site and in the general area, including Dwarf Hackberry, a shrub species considered Threatened in Ontario. Other rare species include Blazing Stars and several species that are associated with prairie / savannah habitats (e.g. Big Bluestem, Indian Grass, Butterfly Milkweed, Fragrant Sumac and Black Oak). These plants prefer the dry, sandy conditions found in the area.
Wildlife
The Oak Woodland and Savannah vegetation communities also provide habitat for a diverse group of wildlife. A large list of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects and butterflies has been recorded in the nearby Pinery Provincial Park, which contains Oak Woodland / Savannah and other habitat types. The area is particularly notable for its diversity of nesting birds and butterflies, but also provides habitat for many bird species during annual migrations.
Environmental Protection
One of the key objectives in the planning and design of the Pinery Bluffs Subdivision was environmental protection. In recognition of the ecological significance and sensitivity of the Oak Woodland / Savannah and sand dune habitats, a Vegetation Protection Zone has been identified (PDF). It includes most of the large sand dune, and a band around the perimeter of the subdivision.
Aportion of the rear lots is within the Vegetation Protection Zone, as delineated by decorative Property Delineation Markers.
The intent of the Vegetation Protection Zone is to maintain the existing Oak Woodland and Savannah habitat in its natural state, with no buildings, gardens or other alterations. The Vegetation Protection Zone is shown on your property Title and activities within the zone are regulated by a Conservation Easement, administered by the Municipality of Lambton Shores. For removal of potential hazard trees within the Vegetation Protection Zone on your lot, please contact the Municipality of Lambton Shores.
Contacts:
The Municipality of Lambton Shores. Town of Forest, Sub Office 19 Ann Street, P.O. Box 610 Forest, ONT. N0N 1J0 Phone: 519.786.2335 Toll Free: 1-877-786-2335 Email: administration@lambtonshores.ca
For information regarding applicable by-laws and activities within the Vegetation Protection Zone (e.g. hazard tree removal).
- The Friends of Pinery Park. Website – http://www.pinerypark.on.ca/index.html
Includes detailed information on Pinery Provincial Park (e.g. lists of flora and fauna, park history and activities) - Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority. Website – http://www.abca.on.ca/index.php.
- Additional information on environmental features in the area, including wetlands, watercourses and the Lake Huron Coastline.
