Big Island Cree Nation Road Upgrades and Repairs - Site 4

Notice of Determination

 

August 5, 2026 - Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Big Island Lake Cree Nation Urgent Road Upgrades and Repairs - Site 4 project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

 

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

- the Big Island Lake Cree Nation has authorized the project by Band Council Resolution, and its 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 (June 24, 2026), Simple Environmental Review form (June 30, 2026) and supporting documents. 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 by other regulatory authorities. 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.
   1. If any tree clearing activities are to be conducted during the active nesting period for the region (May to late August), sites will be inspected prior to determine the presence of any nesting birds.
   2. The inspection will occur within 7 days of the start of construction activities and will consist of a visual and auditory inspection to assess breeding activities within and surrounding the project area. The inspection will be conducted by walking transects with intermittent stopping points to record all birds that are seen or heard, while also noting any observed breeding behaviors, including courtship displays, entering and existing suspected nesting locations, transporting food or nest building materials, removal of fecal sacs, and alarm calls, etc.
   3. If a bird is accidentally flushed, the immediate area will be vacated promptly. Suspected nesting locations will be recorded, and appropriate buffer zones / mitigation measures will be established.
4. A Request for Review was submitted to Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the measures stated in the application and Letter of Advice will be implemented.
5. Existing structures will be removed and replaced in a manner that maintains channel stability and provides unimpeded fish passage consistent with natural channel conditions.
6. Following installation of new structures, the channel will be restored and isolation measures removed gradually to allow controlled rewatering and minimize sediment release.
7. Erosion and sediment control measures consisting of silt fencing, at minimum, will be implemented prior construction to prevent erosion and discharge of soil-bearing water runoff or airborne dust to adjacent properties and waterways. 
   1. Silt fencing will be routinely inspected during construction and will remain in place after construction until adequate vegetative growth has re-established.
8. Disturbed areas will be revegetated and/or stabilized as soon as possible with compatible native vegetation to existing conditions.
9. All waste generated from construction activities will be responsibly stored and disposed of at designated off-reserve facilities.
10. Responsible refueling and greasing procedures shall be followed for all on-site equipment. This will include implementing designated zones equipped with containment areas for daily maintenance of equipment, proper storage of all equipment and maintenance products, and the site shall be equipped with spill kits.
11. Equipment will be maintained in good condition to reduce emissions and prevent leaks. Spill kits must be readily available for operator use.
12. Regardless of volume, any spilled substance that may cause an adverse effect must be cleaned up immediately and contaminated materials removed from the site for proper disposal. All spills must be reported to relevant federal, provincial and municipal government departments.
13. Refueling or maintenance activities of equipment will not be authorized within 30 m of any open water courses.
14. Unnecessary idling of vehicles and equipment will be prohibited.

 

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