Natural Areas and Streams
Help protect our natural areas!
Oakville’s natural areas are made up of woodlands, meadows, wetlands, valley lands, and stream corridors. They provide important ecological services that benefit both people and the environment. You can do your part to helping to protect these natural areas by following theses simple do’s and don’ts:
- Do use designated trails and pathways to limit soil compaction and the trampling of plants.
- Don't cut trees or grass in naturalized areas, store wood or other material, build tree houses or fire pits, or otherwise encroach on public natural areas.
- Do keep dogs on a leash as pets can disrupt natural areas by frightening wildlife and trampling vegetation. Also pick up after your pet to prevent harmful bacterial from contaminating soils.
- Do plant native trees, shrubs and ground cover along the buffer zone between your property and the natural area.
- Do use organic and biodegradable products on your lawn and garden instead of harmful pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers – chemicals from these product can be transported to natural areas during rainfall events.
- Do use commercial car wash stations to clean your vehicle to avoid soap and chemicals washing off your driveway and into the storm sewer systems and eventually ending up in the natural areas. If you do wash your car at home, use biodegradable soap and a sponge and bucket rather than your hose to conserve water.
- Do keep your vehicles in good repair and properly dispose of waste automotive fluids. Dispose of oil, paint thinners and other hazardous waste at your local hazardous waste station. Oil does not dissolve in water and oil and automotive fluids are poisonous to people, wildlife and plants.
- Don’t direct pool drainage into the natural area. Pool or spa water containing chlorine can be toxic to aquatic life. This action is prohibited by by-law. Allow the pool water to sit for 72 hours before draining the pool to allow the chemicals to evaporate. Discharge pool water over grassed areas before draining to the storm sewer.
- Don’t drain water directly into natural areas as this can cause soil erosion and slope failures.
For additional resource and assistance on how landowners can help protect natural areas, please visit that Halton Watershed Stewardship Program page on Conservation Halton’s website.
Studies related to natural areas and streams
The following study is available for your reference:
Current stream construction and rehabilitation projects
The following construction activities are scheduled to commence or are currently underway: