Notice determination

December 13, 2019 – Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Wunnumin H1RCI Compound Construction is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

 The determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:

  • The project consists of constructing the necessary infrastructure in Wunnumin Lake First Nation to serve as a base of operations for Hydro One Remote Communities;
  • This project forms part of the bigger Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project in which sixteen First Nations will be connected to Ontario's Transmission Network;
  • The compound will serve as a base for Hydro One Remote Communities to oversee and operate the backup generators needed to support the Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project;
  • Mitigation measures have been put into place for the duration of the construction, mitigation measures include the following:
    • Re-fueling of heavy equipment will be conducted away from all bodies of water at a secure staging area and in accordance with fuel handling regulations;
    • All equipment will be equipped with a spill kit;
    • Limit vegetation removal will be completed, for areas requiring revegetation following project completion, seed mixes and/or tree saplings of native plant species will be used;
    • During clearing activities temporary erosion and sediment control measures will be implemented; and,
    • Vegetation clearing will be completed outside migratory birds nesting periods

 Implementation of mitigation measures is required for the project to address:

  • Potential soil and groundwater impacts due to fueling vehicles
  • Clearing vegetation

Indigenous Services Canada is satisfied that that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Therefore, Indigenous Services Canada may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.

Document Reference Number: 2

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