Notice of Determination for the SaskPower Rural Rebuild 2D-41 Birmingham Southwest

July 2, 2025 - Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) has determined that the proposed SaskPower Rural Rebuild 2D-41 Birmingham Southwest project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

-no comments were received during the public participation period regarding 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, Rural Rebuild 2D-41 Birmingham Southwest – Design for Construction Drawings (SaskPower, Rev 5, May 1, 2025) and SaskPower's Environmental Beneficial Management Practices Manual. 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. Provide notification and obtain a BCR form from Star Blanket Cree Nation prior to the start of Rural Rebuild 2D-41 Birmingham Southwest construction activities.
4. All work will be carried out in accordance with the Migratory Bird Convention Act and applicable regulations. If ground disturbance activities should occur within of the nesting period, a qualified biologist shall assess conditions of the site prior to site disturbance and before vegetation clearing, to detect nesting birds or species of concern. If any nesting birds or species of concern are discovered,  work shall be halted and ISC notified.
5. Project activities are to be conducted under dry or frozen ground conditions. Work must be halted for activities that could potentially cause rutting of the ground surface.
6. Provide sediment and erosion control measures, immediately following initial ground disturbance, 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. 
7. Inspect, repair, and maintain erosion and sedimentation control measures during construction until permanent vegetation has been established.
8. Remove erosion and sedimentation controls and restore and stabilize areas disturbed during removal.
9. All wastes (hazardous/non-hazardous) and debris will be removed and disposed of in an approved receptacle or facility. All materials (poles/cross arms/hardware/cables/etc) from salvaged distribution lines will be removed and disposed of at an approved facility or recycled.
10. Careful maintenance and monitoring of all equipment will be carried out to minimize the risk of spills or leaks of petroleum-based products. Storage of hazardous material and refueling is prohibited within 100m of a water body. The contractor will have an emergency response plan to manage fuel spills.
11. Regardless of volume, any spilled substance that may cause an adverse effect must be cleaned up immediately and removed from the site for proper disposal. All spills must be reported to relevant federal, provincial and municipal government departments.
12. Fire protection and dust control must be implemented to prevent air quality impacts and ensure the safety of nearby residents.
13. All equipment must be properly maintained and equipped with standard air emissions equipment.