[All] Update on ESPA 19 and baby bird

[Louisette Lanteigne]

Hi folks
Here's an update regarding ESPA 19 in Waterloo, the forests beside the West Side Lands and the baby bird. 

The majority of folks believe the bird was a fledgling starling with robin taking a quick second place.  None the less, both birds are migratory species technically speaking and although Starlings are considered exempt from the migratory bird act, it's presence clearly shows that tree removal in ESPA 19 did encroach upon active nests during the breeding season of migratory birds. The little bird was found by a one of the tree stumps in the newly cleared area where the city of Waterloo intends to put infrastructure and asphalt trail with lighting. 
On Monday crews did come back and cleared the remaining trees, removing many of the stumps as well. Not sure if this little fella survived the process but if you drive behind the Columbia Forest Blvd. turn around area, you will now see a full 10m cleared right through the entire width of the forest between Columbia Forest and Vista HIlls.
Residents in the area were visibly upset to see this happen. Sad faces on both the children and adults living in the area. Many thought at least some of the mature trees would be left along the trail's edges by the back of their homes. They were shocked to see them come down. 
On Monday I walked the grounds with Bylaw staff who also observed the tree removal. The officer had conflicts of interest but stated she was disturbed to see this happening. I agreed. I showed her the fort by the Vernal Pond 12. She took video and assured me city staff would be by to remove the fort shortly. 
As for the baby bird, the footage of it along with Monday's tree removal was submitted as I made my report to the RCMP. They have the jurisdiction to assure compliance to the Migratory Bird Act because it is a federal law. The city may or may not be held accountable based on the outcome of the investigation. We'll have to wait and see what comes of it. 
Lulu 
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