Notice of Determination

August 21, 2024 – Indigenous Services Canada and Environment Climate Change Canada have determined that the proposed Wahnapitae First Nation Landfill Closure and Waste Transfer Station Construction is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

• Indigenous knowledge;
• Consultation with federal authorities;
• Technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:

• Erosion and Sediment Controls will be implemented to reduce and control soil erosion and sedimentation runoff to adjacent natural areas and surface water. Standard duty silt fencing will be installed around the perimeter of the work area where disturbed soils or loose fill materials may impact natural features.  Erosion and sediment control measures will be monitored regularly.  Work will not be conducted during times of high precipitation and sediment and erosion control will be monitored before and after storm events.
• If clearing is needed, vegetation clearing will be completed outside of Migratory Bird nesting season (April 15 - August 31) and bat active window (April 15 - September 30). If tree clearing is required during the active season, a qualified biologist will survey the area and identify any nesting activities or trees suitable for bird or bat habitat, and no clearing will occur in the area.
• Cleared/bare areas will be revegetated to minimize exposed soils and erosion potential.  Revegetation will be done using native trees, shrubs or grasses, the areas will be covered with mulch to prevent soil erosion and to help seeds germinate.
• To reduce and/or control the introduction or spread of invasive species, equipment will be pressure washed before entering a site and before being moved to another location.
• Pollution Control measures will be implemented to reduce and control contamination to soil and groundwater associated with maintenance and re-fueling of equipment, and storage of hazardous materials.  Refueling will be done at least 30 m from a waterbody.  An emergency response plan to manage fuel spill will be developed and all spills will be reported to the Ontario Spills Action Centre.  If contaminated soils are encountered during excavation, works should be halted and the engineer will be notified along with any related First Nation and provincial/federal authorities as applicable. 
• Specialized storage containers will be used to contain hazardous wastes for disposal.
• Groundwater and surface water and landfill gas monitoring will be conducted post-closure of the existing landfill.
• Noise Control Measures including the use of noise muffled devices and restricting construction work to regular working hours, will be implemented to reduce and control temporary construction noise disturbances to receptors near the construction site. Speed limits will be respected.  Any powered equipment will be shut off when not in use.
• Project activities will comply with provincial and federal Occupational Health and Safety requirements, including the use of PPE at all times. Construction works will be completed during daylight hours.  Injuries, incidents or fatalities will be immediately reported to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board of Ontario.  Warning signs will be placed at the entrance to the construction site and unauthorized entry to the construction site by the public will be prevented by a perimeter fence and locked gate.  Contractors will be made aware of travelling with caution in areas where children may be present.

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

Therefore, Indigenous Services Canada and Environment Climate Change 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.