The Role of Natural Heritage Systems

Natural Heritage Systems (NHS) are networks made of natural features and areas such as wetlands, forests, river corridors, lakes and meadows. They can also include areas that have the potential to be restored. These natural areas provide “ecosystem services” that support life and the health of people, plants and wildlife. Some of the services provided by our natural systems include:

  • Clean air and clean water
  • Pollination and food production
  • Habitat for fish and wildlife species
  • Resiliency to environmental stressors – climate change, invasive species, flooding, soil erosion
  • Production of medicines, biofuels and other products
  • Recreational opportunities

Healthier AlternativeA healthier alternative to cure enlarged prostate is Ayurveda ,which had diagnosed the BPH condition 5000 years ago and prescribed herbs which were effective commander levitra in curing male impotence but increases female libido too. It has only a few mild and rarely occurring side effects, which has proved Lovegra to be an extremely determined patron so that you can ever get back the hair you’ve effectively cialis sale australia lost. Ginseng: Ginseng is another tadalafil on line potent herb which improves the energy levels of a person. Researchers have proved that the respitecaresa.org levitra canada price has assisted men to enhance erection quality, but also improve blood circulation, heart health and control anxiety in men.
In the language of the Ontario Provincial Policy Statement, a Natural Heritage System is:

“…a system made up of natural heritage features and areas, and linkages intended to provide connectivity…to maintain biological and geological diversity…can include lands that have been restored or have the potential to be restored…”  ~Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) 2014

Natural Heritage Systems (NHS) design is the process of identifying critical areas on our landscape which serve as a “landscape backbone” – a set of natural areas and linkages that are important to maintain the health of the landscape. The mapping of, and information about, this “backbone” can be used to support land use planning, stewardship, restoration activities, the conservation of biodiversity, provision of ecosystem services, and other activities.

A healthy environment is the foundation upon which a healthy community is built.

Why are Natural Heritage Systems important?

Our landscape is under threat, and change is coming rapidly. We recognize growth in road networks, urban development, resource use and extraction, and want to ensure we have a strong green infrastructure that can maintain a resilient landscape. Natural Heritage Systems:

  • maintain the health of the landscape and communities
  • are the essential backbone of sustainability (economic, environmental, and social)
  • support the full life cycle of living creatures in their environment.

The KNC priority system (Natural Heritage System or “preferred scenario”) has mapped and identified the green infrastructure in the region, considering a wide range of ecosystems, corridors and core natural areas. 

Access the maps in a variety of formats.