Notice of Determination for the Pelican Lake Bio Energy Project

Feb 7, 2024 - Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) has determined that the proposed Pelican Lake Bio Energy Project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

The determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:
-Pelican Lake First Nation members will benefit from this development;
-no comments were received from the public about the project; and
-mitigation measures are required for the project

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

• The project shall proceed in the manner described in the ISC Project Description form - Pelican Lake Biomass Energy Project EA (1-009 Lo2 Rev 3) and Pelican Lake BioEnergy Project and Review and Comment Table Response 31.01.20214 (Appendices A – E).
• All applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations will be adhered to and permits will be obtained before undertaking any work. This Notice of Determination does not apply to ancillary features associated with this development, for example, but not limited to power transmission lines, natural gas or water supply pipelines and/or gravel extraction activities.
• The proponent shall submit the results of the Air Dispersion and Noise Modelling studies for the project. If the results of the subsequent studies do not meet applicable guidelines and/or standards, the proponent will notify ISC and submit an Adaptive Management Plan for approval.
• The proponent will file the Project Operations Plan with ISC within one year of commencing operations.
• All work will be carried out in accordance with the Migratory Bird Convention Act and applicable regulations. If clearing and grubbing (even ground vegetation) should occur within of the nesting period (Mid-April - Late August), a qualified biologist shall assess conditions of the site prior to site disturbance and before vegetation clearing, to detect species of concern. If any species of concern are discovered,  work shall be halted and ISC notified. Environment and Climate Change Canada must also be contacted immediately to determine mitigation strategies.
• Provide sediment and erosion control measures to prevent soil erosion and discharge of soil-bearing water runoff or airborne dust 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.
     - All waste materials will be disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner and in accordance with federal,       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 least 30m from water body and on an 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.
• All construction equipment must be properly maintained and equipped with standard air emissions equipment.

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