Columbia Lake IR#3, British Columbia– March 3, 2025 – Environment and Climate Change Canada has determined that the proposed Akisqnuk First Nation Multipurpose Building Construction is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

• impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples;
• comments received from the public; and
• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Key mitigation measures taken into account for this determination include:

• Implement soil management measures to avoid any impact on soil.
• Avoid vegetation clearing during migratory bird nesting season.
• Maintain sensitive areas free of disturbance.
• Restore disturbed habitat areas with non-invasive and appropriate species upon completion of construction.
• Develop emergency plans and avoid equipment maintenance on site.
• Have a qualified environmental professional on site to supervise the work.
• Address all mitigation measures identified by Federal Regulators.
• Species at Risk – All project activities, including mitigations and seasonal activity windows, must comply with the terms and conditions of the Species at Risk Act (SARA) permit which is required for the project to be carried out.

Environment and Climate Change Canada is satisfied that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects, if all mitigation measures are applied. Therefore, Environment and Climate Change Canada may 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.