Notice of Determination for the Ochapowace Nation Water Treatment Plant Upgrades

July 2, 2025 - Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Ochapowace Nation Water Treatment Plant Upgrades project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

- the Ochapowace Nation are in support of the project, and their membership will benefit from the project

- no comments were received from the public about the project

- mitigation measures are required for the project

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

1. The project shall proceed in the manner described in the ISC Project Description form, Simple Environmental Review report (BCL Engineering Ltd., May 27, 2025). The Proponent will immediately notify ISC of any changes to the proposed project for approval.
2. Relevant permits and approvals will be obtained before undertaking any work. It is the Proponent's responsibility to meet all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations that apply to the proposed project, and to adhere to the conditions outlined in any permits or approvals issued for the project. This Notice of Determination does not apply to ancillary features associated with this development that were not included in the Project Description form.
3. All work will be carried out in accordance with the Migratory Bird Convention Act and applicable regulations.
   • If any topsoil stripping occurs with the nesting period of the region (mid-April – late August), the site will be inspected prior to determine the presence of any ground nesting birds.
4. Erosion and sediment control measures such as silt fencing and rip rap will be utilized to limit and contain the impacted areas during construction.
5. Site grading will be constructed with in-situ soils native to the project site.
6. Following construction completion, topsoil will be replaced all disturbed areas will be seeded to re-establish vegetative growth equal to that of the surrounding area.
7. The contractor will have an emergency response plan that will be implemented in the event of an accidental spill. The contractor will utilize spill prevention procedures and spill kits will be present at the site during construction.
8. Imported materials will consist of aggregate materials to be utilized as base gravel for site surfacing. Materials imported to site will be inspected prior to placement to confirm absence of any potential contaminants.
9. Equipment idling will be kept to a minimum throughout the duration of construction.
10. The contractor will be required to dispose of all waste generated during construction at appropriate registered off-reserve disposal facilities.

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