August 5, 2025 – Fisheries and Oceans Canada has determined that the proposed Seal Island Lighthouse Replacement Tower 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;
• Indigenous knowledge;
• community knowledge;
• comments received from the public; and
• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:

Small, immediate disturbance of birds/bird habitat over the short term

• Conduct a pre-construction bird nest survey if work is scheduled during the breeding season (typically April–August); identify any active nests within 50 m.
• If active nests are found within 50 m of the work site, establish no-work buffer zones and consult with local wildlife authorities as needed.
• Schedule vegetation clearing and site grading outside of the breeding season to minimize disruption to nesting birds.
• Educate all workers on local bird species, legal protections (e.g., Migratory Birds Convention Act), and proper conduct near bird habitat.
• Ensure that food scraps and garbage are secured to prevent attracting scavenging species.
• Implement measures to prevent harm, harassment, or displacement of any individuals from species protected under SARA.
• Use well-muffled machinery to reduce noise disturbance.
• Avoid site activities near sensitive habitats and minimize potential impacts from noise, vibration, and lighting on nearby wildlife.
• Prioritize the use of previously disturbed areas wherever possible to limit further habitat disruption.

Reversible, immediate degradation of groundwater quality (no marine water/fish habitat nearby)

• Ensure all machinery is in good working order, free of leaks, and refueled at least 30 m from any drainage ditches or culverts.
• Conduct regular inspections for leaks and maintain on-site spill kits (minimum 250L capacity).
• Store hazardous materials (fuels, oils, paints) in secure, impermeable containers on level ground, away from potential runoff pathways.
• Concrete wash water must be collected and disposed of off-site or in a lined containment area.
• Avoid over-excavation and stabilize disturbed soils promptly to reduce potential leaching.

Small, immediate disturbance to terrestrial species and habitat over the short term

• Do not stage equipment or materials in wetlands, treed areas, or native grassland, keep activity within the defined project footprint.
• Avoid construction during critical activity periods for any identified local species (e.g., spring amphibian migration, fall foraging).
• Use fencing or flagging to demarcate no-go zones (e.g., habitat edges, remnant vegetation).
• Provide wildlife escape ramps or cover any open pits overnight to avoid trapping animals.

Small, immediate disturbance of soils over the short term

• Schedule excavation and grading during dry weather and pause work during forecasted heavy precipitation.
• Install silt fences, straw wattles, or similar erosion and sediment control devices downslope of exposed soils.
• Stabilize disturbed areas post-construction using topsoil, mulch, or hydroseeding, especially around the tower base.
• Dispose of excess soil and construction waste in approved off-site facilities.
• Excavated soil impacted by metals should not be placed directly on the ground surface.
• If excavation occurs within an existing soil cap, the cap should be reinstated, or a disposal plan should be prepared for proper offsite removal.

Immediate reduction in air quality due to noise and dust, over the short term

• Limit construction to daylight hours and inform nearby landowners of the schedule.
• Use water trucks or hand-sprayers to suppress dust on access roads and exposed soils, especially during dry and windy conditions.
• Avoid use of older, high-emission machinery; ensure all engines meet current emission standards.
• Monitor noise and dust levels if construction occurs near sensitive receptors (e.g., homes, protected lands).
• Prohibit waste oil use for dust control under all circumstances

Immediate, short term, Risk to worker health and potential spread of contaminants during soil disturbance and handling

• Review site-specific soil assessment to delineate areas of potential contamination.
• Implement a Soil Management Plan that includes protocols for excavation, handling, and disposal of contaminated soils in accordance with provincial and federal guidelines.
• Require use of appropriate PPE (e.g., gloves, coveralls, respiratory protection) for workers handling or working near contaminated soil.
• Minimize dust generation through regular wetting of soil during excavation and transport.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is satisfied that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Therefore, Fisheries and Oceans Canada may carry out the project, 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.