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Research

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Research is important for supporting science-based decision making in managing the natural resources of the watershed.

We encourage research in the watershed. The information and knowledge generated by research and the sharing of that research with GRCA staff can help to inform resource management decisions for the watershed.   

The GRCA owns and manages approximately 19,400 hectares (48,000 acres) of land in the Grand River watershed. This represents 2.8 % of the watershed and includes natural areas, environmentally sensitive lands, lands for multi-purpose reservoirs and conservation areas. 

We also own and operate river flow and water quality monitoring stations that researchers have used to collect samples or pilot new monitoring technology. 

Getting access to GRCA property

If you are interested in conducting research on GRCA property, please fill out the Research Access Form and direct it to the following individuals based on the nature of your research:

  • If you wish to access a GRCA park, conservation area or any other GRCA property to evaluate natural heritage features, flora or fauna, please contact Crystal Allan, Supervisor of Natural Heritage, 519-621-2763 ext. 2249.
  • If you wish to access GRCA reservoirs or a water quality station or flow gauging station, please contact Sandra Cooke, Senior Water Quality Supervisor, 519-621-2763 ext. 2224

When submitting a Research Access Form, please include a Certificate of Insurance with an insurance limit of no less than $2 million, identifying the GRCA as an additional insured.  

 

Requirements for the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for research on GRCA lands
 

If you are proposing to use an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) when conducting your research you must submit a proposal to the GRCA that accompanies the Research Access permit for GRCA lands. 

Please note that by submitting your proposal, it does not guarantee that you will receive permission to access GRCA lands with your UAV. There are many GRCA departments that will have to review your proposal, therefore please submit your proposal well in advance of your proposed activity dates.  

GRCA staff have to balance many activities on GRCA lands.  Our priority is the safety of our patrons and the public.  

The following information is required in your proposal for GRCA staff to review:

  1. A description of your proposed research and how a UAV will be used for your research.  
  2. Mapping to illustrate the aerodromes within the vicinity of the proposed test site for the UAV flight.
  3. Detailed mapping to illustrate the GRCA property, and the specific areas within the property that will be used for the UAV flights. GRCA property parcels and other GIS data can be accessed through the Grand River Information Network https://www.grandriver.ca/en/our-watershed/Maps-and-data.aspx  
  4. Flight Plan showing the paths that the UAV will be taking over the GRCA property respecting the recommended clearance of 30 m from buildings, animals and people from Transport Canada; show take off sites, and landing sites; emergency landing sites, and other pertinent details in order to ensure a successful and safe flight; identify any potential hazards and describe your response to those hazards. Identify private residences/cottages to ensure privacy will be maintained.  Include details of the proposed dates/times to fly the UAV
  5. Security Plan including how the operator will notify people within the vicinity of the location of the flight to ensure that they do not enter the "minimum lateral safety distance" as stipulated by Transport Canada. The UAV shall not be operated within "minimum horizontally safety distance" of any public roadway, right of way, or public access.  Applicants shall describe how the area where the UAV is flying will be secured to prevent any person not associate with the UAV operation from entering the secured area.  
  6. Operating Plan with a full description of the approach being taken to set up the site(s); notify local people, or residents of the activity; fly the drone along the specified flight plan; conclude the flight; and notify local people of the completion of activity.  
  7. Emergency / Contingency Plan detailing the response if someone / something (e.g. boaters, bystanders) enters the flight path space. 
  8. Map detailing the primary and secondary taking off and landing sites for the UAV. 
  9. Communications protocols and approach for maintaining a safe operating distance from private residences / cottages to ensure privacy. 
  10. Type of and technical specifications of the UAV 
  11. Copy of your Transport Canada supplied certificate(s) (e.g. Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) or Standing SFOC) 
  12. GRCA Research Access Form/Permit 
  13. Insurance certificate for $5 million

 

GRCA data, studies and reports

Monitoring, geospatial data, watershed management plans and other technical studies are available on the GRCA website.

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