Construction of Micro-Subdivision Lots - Chapleau Cree First Nation

Notice of Determination

August 21, 2025 - Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Construction of Micro-Subdivision Lots project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

• There will be positive impacts on the rights of Indigenous peoples associated with the construction of the lots, such as addressing long-standing housing needs and supporting population growth of the community.
• The project aligns with Chapleau Cree First Nation's community planning priorities and will respect the community's traditional and cultural relationship to the land. Site selection avoids culturally sensitive areas and considers traditional land use patterns;
• No comments were received by the public; And
• Mitigation measures to ensure the protection of the environment, and safety of members the community will be implemented during construction. Mitigations measures have been prepared and reviewed by ISC.

Implementation of mitigations is required to address potential impacts to:

Air quality: Dust generated by construction activities may affect human health, particularly for Elders, children, and those with respiratory conditions. Dust can settle on local vegetation and may reduce visibility and create safety concerns near the construction zone.

Noise: Noise generated during construction can result in temporary residual effects on community well-being and the surrounding environment. Prolonged exposure to noise can cause stress, disrupt sleep, and interfere with daily activities. Wildlife in nearby areas may also be disbursed, altering their natural behaviours.

Soil: During the construction period there is possibility that a fuel spill may occur during refueling of construction equipment and machinery. Fuel spills would result in harmful impacts to the local soil health and wildlife.

Surface Water: Where disturbed soil or loose fill materials are present on the work site (soil excavation, fill stockpiling) there is potential for erosion and/or siltation impacts to the surface water quality of the nearby wetlands. Fuel spills adjacent to the wetlands may also cause localized surface water impacts.

Species at Risk (SAR): Wetlands adjacent to the work area may be suitable habitat for two species at risk - the Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata) and Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus). It is unknown if either species is present in the area. Encounters could potentially occur along the wetland’s edge where they are known to frequent and disturb individuals or their nests.

Proposed mitigations are as follows:

Air quality: To minimize dust related impacts, the Contractor will apply dust control measures as required such as regular watering of construction areas, covering stockpiles, and minimizing vehicle speeds on site. Construction schedules can avoid prolonged dry or windy periods when dust dispersion is more likely. The project can utilize and establish buffer zones with vegetation where feasible. Communication with the community about the construction timelines and safety precautions will help reduce disruption.

Noise: To manage any noise impacts, construction activities will be limited to daytime hours when disruption is less likely to interfere with rest or traditional practices. Equipment will be maintained regularly to reduce excess noise. Notifying the community in advance about construction schedules, expected noise levels, and duration will help to manage expectations and reduce concerns.

Soil and Surface Water: The Contractor will provide a spill prevention plan and silt mitigation plan (including a response plan). Mitigations shall include (but not limited to): all refueling of machinery will be conducted at designated refueling area, away from drainage channels, with spill protection; all refueling will be conducted using appropriate nozzles; fuels will be stored in the Contractors lay down area, outside of an area of active construction; erosion and sediment control (ESC) (i.e., Standard duty silt fencing or equivalent) will be installed around the perimeter of the work zone where disturbed soils or loose fill materials occur to clearly demarcate the development area and prevent erosion and sedimentation into adjacent habitats; all ESC measures will be inspected prior to construction and maintained during all construction phases to prevent entry of sediment into natural features; and ESC measures will be left in place until all areas of the construction site have been stabilized and will then be removed by the Contractor.

Species at Risk (SAR): In addition to the spill prevention plan and silt mitigation plan, a site inspection will be undertaken prior to construction commencing. Should a SAR individual be encountered on-site, the following actions shall be taken: 
- Project activities in the immediate area must cease until the individual leaves the area of its own accord, or contact Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) for advice should it be unwilling to leave; Or
- Since both the Midland Painted Turtle and Rusty Blackbird are designated as Special Concern SAR, they may be removed from the project area fencing if all other actions have been attempted and were not successful.

Indigenous Services Canada is satisfied 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.