Central Ontario SAR Surveys
Bracebridge, ON
Project Overview: Supporting Biodiversity Conservation in Central Ontario
Dougan Ecology proudly contributed to a major biodiversity conservation initiative in central Ontario, providing in-depth natural heritage assessments and Species at Risk surveys to support a multi-disciplinary due diligence study on a large, remote site.
Over two field seasons, our team conducted specialized surveys across a wide range of habitats—travelling north seasonally to gather critical ecological data and inform responsible land use planning.
Our fieldwork included:
- Bat habitat assessments (leaf-off and acoustic)
- Nocturnal amphibian call monitoring
- Basking turtle and nesting surveys
- Snake surveys
- Marsh bird surveys (including Least Bittern)
- Eastern Whip-poor-will surveys
- Nesting assessments for Red-shouldered Hawk and Pileated Woodpecker
- Chimney Swift surveys
- Eastern Hemlock and Black Ash evaluations
- Invasive vascular plant inventories
Findings were summarized in a comprehensive Natural Heritage Report, detailing methodologies, key ecological insights, and regulatory considerations under the Endangered Species Act, and Migratory Birds Convention Act.
Our work informed practical mitigation strategies and ecological enhancements—supporting our client’s commitment to sustainability, compliance, and the protection of species and habitats in one of Ontario’s most ecologically diverse regions.
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Natural Heritage Inventory -
Mapping and Remote Sensing
Project Highlights
Dougan Ecology led a wide-ranging series of natural heritage and Species at Risk surveys to support land use planning in a highly biodiverse region of central Ontario. This ecologically sensitive and regulatory complex project required both standardized and specialized survey techniques, reinforcing Dougan’s leadership in delivering high-quality ecological assessments in remote and challenging environments.
Key outcomes included a comprehensive Natural Heritage Report with detailed findings, permitting guidance, and science-based recommendations for mitigation and ecological enhancement—supporting both compliance and conservation goals.
This project further strengthened Dougan Ecology’s expertise in complex, large-scale assessments—helping our clients make informed, sustainable decisions for the landscapes they steward.
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Extensive fieldwork in sensitive habitats, including bogs, fens, and alvars
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Specialized surveys for Species at Risk, such as Blanding’s Turtle and Least Bittern
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Identification of critical landforms and habitats to guide mitigation and enhancement.
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Innovative monitoring for Pileated Woodpecker, Least Bittern, and bats using a Habitat Quality Index
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Monitored for Eastern Wolves through deployment of wildlife cameras
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Analysis of permitting under multiple provincial and federal regulations
Our Approach: Science-Backed. Client-Focused. Results-Driven.
At Dougan Ecology, we take a thoughtful, science-based approach to every natural heritage assessment. Our team combines strong field expertise with a deep understanding of policy and permitting requirements to help clients confidently navigate complex ecological landscapes.
We deliver high-quality, defensible data that supports regulatory compliance, informs smart mitigation strategies, and protects biodiversity—all while aligning with your project goals.
Every survey is timed to key seasonal windows and tailored to site-specific habitat conditions, ensuring accurate, comprehensive results. We stay ahead of changing legislation and apply current provincial standards to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
With Dougan Ecology, you get more than just data—you get trusted guidance, strategic insight, and a partner committed to achieving real, lasting ecological value.
