Notice of Determination for Red Earth Water Supply and Treatment Project

October 10, 2023 - Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Red Earth Cree Nation Water Supply and Treatment Project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

The determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:
-The existing water treatment plant for Red Earth Cree Nation requires expansion and upgrades, and the project will benefit its membership.
-No comments were received from the public about the project.
-Mitigation measures are required for the project.

Implementation of the following mitigation measures are required for the project:

-All waste materials will be disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner and in accordance with provincial and municipal legislation.
-Careful maintenance and monitoring of all equipment will be carried out to minimize the risk of spills or leaks of petroleum based products. Refueling is done at lease 30m from water body and on impermeable surface. The contractor will have an emergency response plan to manage fuel spills. All spills must be reported to relevant federal, provincial and municipal government departments
-Provide sediment and erosion control measures to prevent soil erosion and discharge of soil-bearing water runoff to adjacent properties and waterways in accordance with federal and provincial standards. 

• • Inspect, repair, and maintain erosion and sedimentation control measures during construction until permanent vegetation has been established.
  • Remove erosion and sedimentation controls and restore and stabilize areas disturbed during removal.

-Ensure Contractor has an emergency response plan to control any fuel spills, which will include having on site appropriate spill response equipment readily available for immediate deployment.  All spills and releases must be reported to the relevant federal, provincial, or territorial government departments.  The emergency response plan must include the appropriate phone number for reporting releases in the area as well as phone numbers for local authorities (Police or Fire departments).
-Topsoil should be stockpiled separately and used for restoration.
-Final construction activities must include grading and revegetation of the site which will bring significant positive environmental impacts so mitigation measures are not required.
-All equipment must be properly maintained and equipped with standard air emissions equipment.
-Site access will be restricted to authorized workers only with adequate training.
-Project activities will comply with the provincial and federal Occupational health and safety requirements.
-In addition to these mitigation measures, ensure that the project meets or exceeds all municipal, provincial and federal laws, codes, standards as applicable.

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