Bulldozing sand dune results in $2K fine for damaging Fowler's toad habitat

Robert Parsons, of Port Carling, and R.E.D. Bulldozing Service pleaded guilty to damaging the habitat of an endangered species — both were fined $1,000.

The Erieau area is considered habitat for the endangered species

CBC News ·
In Ontario, Fowler’s Toads inhabit open beaches, dunes, sandy shorelines, rocky pools, creek and stream mouths, backshore wetlands, and marshes along the northern shore of Lake Erie. (Government of Ontario)

A Blenheim contracting company has been fined $2,000 for damaging an endangered toad's habitat.

Robert Parsons, of Port Carling, and R.E.D. Bulldozing Service pleaded guilty to damaging the habitat of an animal protected under the Endangered Species Act — both were fined $1,000.

Court heard in May 2017 that R.E.D. Bulldozing Service, which was working on behalf of Parsons, used heavy equipment to regrade and level the surface of a waterfront property in the Village of Erieau in Chatham-Kent — an area which is considered habitat for the endangered Fowler's toad.

The regrading altered and partially removed a sandy dune, compacting the sand and impairing the species' use of the area.

Fowler's toad receives species and habitat protection under the act.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry reminds landowners to consult its local district office to get any approvals needed prior to doing work in species-at-risk habitat areas.

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