ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVALS GUIDE - Saskatchewan Business with MHI... · 2018-04-12 · MHI...

SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF

HIGHWAYS & INFRASTRUCTURE

ENVIRONMENTAL

APPROVALS GUIDE

July 2015

F. Korvemaker

travelwayoflife

Canadian2006

S. Lehmann

MHI ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVALS GUIDE

PREFACE i 2015 07

PREFACE

The Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure (MHI) is committed to the protection and preservation

of the environment and responsible use of natural resources. It is essential for the Ministry to ensure

that environmental considerations are part of all activities conducted by its staff, consultants and

contractors.

The purpose of this document is to provide guidance to MHI staff and consultants in ensuring all

projects conform to regulatory approval requirements. This document outlines common approval

requirements across typical MHI projects and is not designed to be a comprehensive solution to

project approvals. It is recognized that environmental regulatory requirements are continually

developing and the framework recommended in this document may be adjusted as new

requirements arise.

REVISION HISTORY

Revision # Date Description of Change

0 January 2015 Working Draft

1 July 2015 Initial Release

DISCLAIMER

This Guide is not a legal authority and is not intended to provide legal advice or direction. The

information in this document is provided as a convenience only. For the updated authoritative text

of the provincial and federal laws, refer to the consolidated acts and regulations of Saskatchewan

legislation at the Queen’s Printer and Canada legislation at the Department of Justice Canada.

Cover Page Photo Credits:

‘Buffalo Effigy at RM of Happy Valley No. 10’; photo by F. Korvemaker, 1992; www.pcs.gov.sk.ca

‘A Family of Five Burrowing Owls’; photo by travelwayoflife; en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burrowing_owl

‘Highway 15 Bridge near Outlook, Saskatchewan’; photo by Canadian2006; en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Saskatchewan_River

‘Lefty Falls in Northern Saskatchewan’; photo by Shauna Lehmann


ABBREVIATIONS & ACRONYMS ii 2015 07

ABBREVIATIONS & ACRONYMS

Abbreviation Term

The Agency Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

AHPP Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit

CEAA 2012 Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012

CM Construction Manual

CRA Commercial, Recreational and Aboriginal (Fisheries)

DFO Fisheries and Oceans Canada

DTC Duty to Consult

EA Environmental Assessment

EATS Environmental Assessment Tracking System

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EIS Environmental Impact Statement

FWB Fish and Wildlife Branch (of the SK Ministry of Environment)

HM Hydraulics Manual

HRIA Heritage Resource Impact Assessment

MHI SK Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure

MPCS SK Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport

NPA Navigation Protection Act

SARA Species at Risk Act

SEARP Saskatchewan Environmental Assessment Review Panel

SKCDC Saskatchewan Conservation Data Center

TRC Technical Review Comments


TABLE OF CONTENTS iii 2015 07

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Preface ................................................................................................................................................. i

Revision History .................................................................................................................................. i

Disclaimer ............................................................................................................................................ i

Abbreviations & Acronyms ................................................................................................................ ii

Table of Contents .............................................................................................................................. iii

1.0 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 1-1

1.1 Guide Layout ........................................................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Roles and Responsibilities ..................................................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Recordkeeping ....................................................................................................................... 1-2

1.4 Keys to Success ...................................................................................................................... 1-3

2.0 Summary of Activities ....................................................................................................................... 2-1

3.0 Aboriginal Consultation .................................................................................................................... 3-1

3.1 Background ............................................................................................................................. 3-1

3.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................... 3-1

3.3 Associated Approvals ............................................................................................................ 3-2

4.0 Protected Species & Habitat Screening .......................................................................................... 4-1

4.1 Background ............................................................................................................................ 4-1

4.2 Procedure .............................................................................................................................. 4-1


5.0 Heritage Screening & Assessment ................................................................................................... 5-1

5.1 Background ............................................................................................................................. 5-1

5.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................... 5-1


6.0 Federal Environmental Assessment ................................................................................................ 6-1

6.1 Background ............................................................................................................................ 6-1

6.2 Procedure .............................................................................................................................. 6-1


7.0 Provincial Environmental Assessment ............................................................................................. 7-1

7.1 Background ............................................................................................................................. 7-1

7.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................... 7-1


8.0 Federal Aquatic Habitat Protection................................................................................................. 8-1


TABLE OF CONTENTS iv 2015 07

8.1 Background ............................................................................................................................ 8-1

8.2 Procedure .............................................................................................................................. 8-1

9.0 Provincial Aquatic Habitat Protection ............................................................................................. 9-1

9.1 Background ............................................................................................................................ 9-1

9.2 Procedure .............................................................................................................................. 9-1

10.0 Wetland Protection ......................................................................................................................... 10-1

10.1 Background ........................................................................................................................... 10-1

10.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................. 10-1

10.3 Associated Approvals ........................................................................................................... 10-2

11.0 Navigation......................................................................................................................................... 11-1

11.1 Background ............................................................................................................................ 11-1

11.2 Procedure .............................................................................................................................. 11-1

12.0 Forest Management ........................................................................................................................ 12-1

12.1 Background ........................................................................................................................... 12-1

12.2 Procedure ............................................................................................................................. 12-1

13.0 Summary of Approval Applications ................................................................................................ 13-1

13.1 Federal EA: Project Description ........................................................................................... 13-1

13.2 Provincial EA: Technical Proposal ........................................................................................ 13-1

13.3 Federal Aquatic: Application for Authorization .................................................................. 13-1

13.4 Provincial Aquatic: AHPP Application.................................................................................. 13-1

13.5 Federal Navigation: Notice to the Minister ......................................................................... 13-1

13.6 Provincial Forest Products: Permit Application .................................................................. 13-1

13.7 Provincial Project Proposal .................................................................................................. 13-2

Appendix A .................................................................................................................................................... 1

A-1: Legislation and Authority ............................................................................................................ 2

A-2: Links to Relevant Documentation ............................................................................................. 3

Appendix B .................................................................................................................................................... 1

B-1: Contact Information .................................................................................................................... 2


INTRODUCTION 1-1 2015 07

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Environmental stewardship is an important part of any project conducted by the Ministry of

Highways and Infrastructure (MHI) and its staff, consultants and contractors. As such, it is important

to be familiar with and understand the various environmental approval requirements (including

approvals, authorizations, licenses, permits, etc.) that apply to the work.

The purpose of this document is to provide a basic guiding framework for identifying which

environmental approvals may be applicable for a particular activity and how to go about obtaining

them. This document is also intended to help Project Managers understand where legislative and

legal obligations may still apply in the absence of a specific permit or approval process. Certain

approvals that are typically obtained directly by Ministry contractors (ex. Temporary Water Use and

Work Camps, among others) are not covered in this document.

It is important to remember that regulatory requirements are continually developing and that this

document may not represent a comprehensive solution to environmental approvals on any given

project. Always consult an MHI Regional Environmental Project Specialist to ensure that all

necessary permits are obtained for a project before work begins.

1.1 GUIDE LAYOUT

The chapters in this guide follow a uniform layout to assist the reader in finding necessary

information quickly. Each chapter begins with background and legislative information followed by a

flow chart and written procedure to be followed in order to obtain the necessary environmental

approvals. If the topic is associated with more than one approvals process, an Associated Approvals

section is included to identify those connections. A summary box at the end of each chapter includes

a summary of applicable legislation and a list of documentation that is relevant to understanding

more about the topic. The legislation and links to relevant documentation from each chapter are

also compiled for quick reference in Appendix A.

1.2 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

It is the Project Manager’s responsibility to ensure all environmental approvals are in place before

the commencement of any work and that the contractor follows all conditions of the approvals. The

primary contract specification related to the environmental topic is General Provision 1650 –

Environmental Protection. In addition, the following Construction Manual (CM) documents provide

guidance to the Project Manager.



Responsibilities Outlined in the Construction Manual (CM) Section Title

The Project Manager should check to make sure that all of the applicable

approvals are in place prior to tender package submission. Where

approvals are pending, their status and anticipated date of obtainment

should be noted on the Tender Package Submission Checklist form.

CM 102-15 The Contract: Tender

Submission Process

Project Manager’s Responsibility:

Review the Environmental Impact Assessment, paying attention to

specific conditions or requirements to be fulfilled and required

approvals to be obtained.

Obtain environmental approvals from other departments and/or

agencies as designated in the Special Provisions and Environmental

Impact Assessment or conditions imposed in the approval of the

Project Proposal. Approvals are required before the commencement

of any work.

Ensure the Contractor follows all guidelines as established by the

Special Provisions and the Environmental Impact Assessment or

conditions imposed in the approval of the Project Proposal.

CM 301-03 General Guidelines and

Regulations:

Environmental Impact

MHI Regional Environmental Project Specialists are available for guidance and should be included in

project planning and pre-construction meetings so that issues can be addressed as they arise.

Contact information is available in Appendix B. Consultants communicating with regional staff must

ensure they follow the Ministry’s communication protocols, such as those outlined in the Professional

Services Agreement.

1.3 RECORDKEEPING

It is critical to keep detailed records of all decisions made during the process of obtaining approvals.

A recordkeeping Excel file, currently under development, will contain a set of recordkeeping

templates and checklists. Contact Shauna Lehmann at 306-933-7603 for questions regarding this file.



1.4 KEYS TO SUCCESS

Plan ahead; begin gathering information and seeking approval as early as possible

Keep thorough records of all information and decisions made during the approval gathering process

Review permit applications and documentation with the Regional Environmental Project Specialist

Do not allow any construction activities to begin until all approvals are in place

File a complete application the first time to avoid costly delays

Read, understand and comply with all permits and approvals obtained


SUMMARY OF ACTIVITIES 2-1 2015 07

2.0 SUMMARY OF ACTIVITIES

The following checklist is a summary of the activities and deliverables involved in each step of the

environmental approvals process.

Activity/Deliverable Section Complete Not

Required

Aboriginal

Consultation

Pre-Consultation Assessment 3.0 Consultation 3.0 Recordkeeping 3.0 Adequacy Assessment 3.0

Protected

Species

Site Review 4.2.1 Identify Provincial Restrictions 4.2.2 Identify Federal Restrictions 4.2.3

Heritage

Desktop Screening 5.2.1 Project Submission 5.2.2 Heritage Resource Impact Assessment 5.2.3

Federal

Environmental

Assessment

Self-Assessment 6.2.1 Project Description 6.2.2 Environmental Assessment Process 6.2.4

Provincial

Environmental

Assessment

Self-Assessment (Pre-Screening) 7.2.1 Technical Proposal (Screening) 7.2.2 Environmental Impact Assessment Process 7.2.4

Federal Aquatic

Habitat

Self-Assessment 8.2.1 Assess Effectiveness of Avoidance & Mitigation 8.2.2 Request for Review 8.2.3 Application for Authorization 8.2.4 Recordkeeping 8.2.5

Provincial

Aquatic Habitat

Determine the Project Type 9.2.1 Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit Application 9.2.2

Wetland

Compensation

Assess Residual Effects 10.2.1 Develop a Compensation Plan 10.2.2

Navigation

Self-Assessment 11.2.1 Opting-In 11.2.2 Notice to the Minister 11.2.3

Forest

Management Forest Products Permit Application 12.2.1


ABORIGINAL CONSULTATION 3-1 2015 07

3.0 ABORIGINAL CONSULTATION

3.1 BACKGROUND

The Supreme Court of Canada has held that Governments have a legal duty to consult with

Aboriginal communities in advance of any decision or action that has the potential to adversely

impact the exercise of Aboriginal or Treaty rights in pursuit of traditional uses, including:

The right to hunt, fish and trap for food; or

Traditional uses of lands and resources, such as the gathering of plants for food and

medicinal purposes and the carrying out of ceremonial and spiritual observances and

practices.

In Saskatchewan, this duty is triggered on unoccupied Crown lands or occupied Crown lands to

which First Nations or Métis communities have a right of access (i.e. there is no duty to consult on

private land or leased Agricultural Crown land). The goal of the consultation process is to facilitate

mutually beneficial relationships among the Government of Saskatchewan, First Nations and Métis

communities, and industry that contribute to a growing provincial economy.

While not specifically an environmental topic, Aboriginal Consultation has been included in this

document as it is associated with the Environmental Assessment process discussed in Chapter 7 and

the Project Proposal discussed in Chapter 13.

3.2 PROCEDURE

By law, consultation must begin prior to any decision being made to initiate a project. Begin the First

Nations and Métis consultation process early during project planning, in advance of seeking project

authorization. Before beginning the pre-consultation assessment process, identify and coordinate as

appropriate with other branches, ministries, agencies or Crowns who may have consulted at earlier

stages or may be responsible for decisions at later stages.

The consultation process has been described through a set of documents and tools developed by the

Ministries of Government Relations and Justice. These resources are available to Ministry staff on

the Government’s Duty to Consult SharePoint site: http://grportal/dutytoconsult/Pages/HomePg.aspx

NOTE: While assigning certain procedural aspects of consultation to a consultant is allowable, the

Ministry is responsible for providing clear direction and oversight throughout the process. As such,

the SharePoint site, documents, and tools are for internal use and are only accessible by Government

of Saskatchewan staff.

An internal MHI Duty to Consult Implementation Committee has been formed to offer support to

Ministry staff. Their mandate includes providing guidance, organizing training sessions, and raising

awareness across the Ministry. To contact the Committee, email [email protected].

http://grportal/dutytoconsult/Pages/HomePg.aspx

mailto:[email protected]


ABORIGINAL CONSULTATION 3-2 2015 07

RECORDKEEPING 3.2.1

A permanent record of all decisions with respect to the pre-consultation assessment and the

consultation must be kept on file indefinitely for future reference by the Ministry and/or regulators.

3.3 ASSOCIATED APPROVALS

Information gathered during this chapter will be used in the following approval applications:

Federal Environmental Assessment Project Description (Section 6.2.2)

Provincial Environmental Assessment Technical Proposal (Section 7.2.2)

Provincial Landscape Stewardship Branch Project Proposal (Section 13.3)

LEGISLATION & AUTHORITY

Government of Canada: Constitution Act, 1982

Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations

Saskatchewan Ministry of Justice

RELEVANT DOCUMENTATION

Duty to Consult SharePoint Site, Government of Saskatchewan

First Nation and Métis Consultation Policy Framework, Government of Saskatchewan (Jun 2010)

Proponent Handbook: Voluntary Engagement with First Nations and Métis Communities to Inform Government’s Duty to Consult Process, Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations (Nov 2013)

Duty to Consult Process Guide for Saskatchewan Government Officials, Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations (April 2015)

Proponents Guide: Consultation with First Nations and Métis in Saskatchewan Environmental Impact

Assessment, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)



PROTECTED SPECIES & HABITAT SCREENING 4-1 2015 07

4.0 PROTECTED SPECIES & HABITAT SCREENING

4.1 BACKGROUND

In accordance with the provincial Wildlife Act and Wildlife Habitat Protection Act, and the federal

Migratory Birds Convention Act and Species at Risk Act, there is a duty to ensure no designated

species will be killed, injured, disturbed, or interfered with as a result of a project’s operations.

In Saskatchewan, a partnership exists between the Fish and Wildlife Branch (FWB) of the Ministry of

Environment and the Saskatchewan Conservation Data Centre (SKCDC). The FWB is responsible for

issuing research permits for activities including species detection surveys and efforts involving the

capture, handling and translocation of plant and animal species. The FWB is also the authority on

standards related to survey methodology and data collection. The SKCDC gathers, interprets and

distributes standardized information on the ecological status of provincial wild species and

communities.

All projects require a desktop screening using the SKCDC Wildlife App as a first step in determining

whether any species at risk or protected habitats may be impacted by the project. It is important to

note that not all occurrences of rare, sensitive or at-risk species are included in the Wildlife App and

that field surveys may be required to verify their presence. If field surveys are required for the

project area, appropriate permits and approvals must be obtained and standards followed with

respect to survey methodology and data submissions.

4.2 PROCEDURE

Site Review

(4.2.1)

Is the site

in an area

of concern?

Proceed to

Next Chapter

Identify Provincial

Restrictions (4.2.2)

NO

YES

Identify Federal

Restrictions (4.2.3)



SITE REVIEW 4.2.1

The only way to reliably determine if rare species are present in the proposed project area is to

conduct field surveys according to survey protocols contained on the Ministry of Environment

Survey Protocols and Data Loadforms webpage. Planning of projects should include consideration

of survey standards that influence species detection. The survey protocols contain information on

standards pertaining to: survey area extent, personnel qualifications, time of year, time of day,

environmental conditions, survey effort, equipment and permit requirements.

DESKTOP SCREENING

The first step in determining which rare species may be present in a proposed project area is to

conduct a desktop screening. The SKCDC Wildlife App’s rare and endangered species data layer is

used to search areas in Saskatchewan to obtain information about the areas with respect to known

rare and sensitive species and species at risk. The map is composed of layers represented in the

legend and in the layer list. Each layer has a database attached to it.

NOTE: The FWB and the SKCDC are collaborating on the release of an updated online mapping

application, which will replace the current SKCDC Wildlife App and will contain additional wildlife and

fisheries related information. Additional data layers will be added over time and users will have the

capability to use their own data.

To conduct a SKCDC desktop screening of the project area:

Access the SKCDC website at www.biodiversity.sk.ca

Click on ‘Apps’ on the top menu and select ‘Wildlife App’

Enter the MHI username and password or request an account from the SKCDC

o NOTE: Signing in as a guest will not provide the level of detail required. For Ministry

staff, the username and password can be obtained from an MHI Regional

Environmental Project Specialist. External users, including consultants, must obtain

individual accounts from a Ministry of Environment Ecological Protection Specialist.

Locate and examine the project area, including borrow sites and gravel pits, for species at

risk and protected areas. Ensure all appropriate map layers are visible. Refer to the SKCDC

Training Manual and Data Sharing Agreement for more detailed instructions.

Print or save a copy of the Rare and Endangered Species Report and map(s) of the project

area(s). Permit applications require submission of the report and map even if no rare,

sensitive or species at risk are identified.

If the desktop screening does not provide adequate information on the occurrence, contact

the SKCDC. Contact information is available in Appendix B. Be prepared to provide:

o The project location (e.g., section/township/range, Lat/Long, etc.)

o The ‘Unique Occurrence ID’ of each occurrence, as identified with the information

tool

http://www.biodiversity.sk.ca/



CONDUCT FIELD SURVEYS

Conduct field surveys as required and submit data in accordance with the Ministry of Environment’s

survey protocols and loadforms. Survey protocols and corresponding loadforms are available for

Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds, Mammals and Plants. Check the site regularly to ensure the latest

protocols are being used. Contact a Ministry of Environment Ecological Protection Specialist for

assistance. Contact information is available in Appendix B.

SUBMIT LOADFORMS

If data is not to be submitted through the research permit process, submit data to

[email protected]. Data and reports submitted through the research permit process should be

directed to [email protected]. This includes surveys where a permit is not required

but notification is requested. Note that this data will be forwarded to the SKCDC, so it only needs to

be submitted once.

IDENTIFY PROVINCIAL RESTRICTIONS 4.2.2

View the Saskatchewan Activity Restriction Guidelines for Sensitive Species provided in the Protocols &

Guidelines section of the SKCDC website, to determine whether any activity associated with the

project will occur within the listed setback distances or whether any timing restrictions will apply.

If any restrictions apply to the work, contact the MoE at [email protected] early in

the planning stage (Appendix B). Prior to construction or related activities, field surveys are

usually required to ensure detection of rare species or habitats that may exist at the site.

This may result in the need to alter or reschedule project activities. Contact information is

available in Appendix B.

IDENTIFY FEDERAL RESTRICTIONS 4.2.3

The federal Species at Risk Act (SARA) requires that adverse effects on all species listed in Schedule 1,

or their critical habitat, need to be identified for the project. If the desktop screening indicates that

the project may impact a species listed on Schedule 1 of SARA, certain restrictions or approvals may

apply:

For a Schedule 1 species in any national park, national historic site, or national marine

conservation area administered by Parks Canada, contact Parks Canada through the specific

protected heritage area directly.

For a Schedule 1 aquatic species, contact Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

For all other SARA permit applications, use the SARA E-permitting System to apply

electronically.

Contact information is available in Appendix B.












Environment Canada: Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994; Species at Risk Act (SARA)

Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment: The Wildlife Act, 1998; The Wildlife Habitat Protection Act


Saskatchewan Survey Protocols and Data Loadforms, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment

SKCDC Training Manual and Data Sharing Agreement, Saskatchewan Conservation Data Centre (July 2015)

Saskatchewan Activity Restriction Guidelines for Sensitive Species, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (May 2015)

Activity Setback Distance Guidelines for Prairie Plant Species at Risk, Canadian Wildlife Service (Oct 2011)

Species at Risk Act Public Registry and Permit System, Environment Canada


HERITAGE SCREENING & ASSESSMENT 5-1 2015 07

5.0 HERITAGE SCREENING & ASSESSMENT

5.1 BACKGROUND

Archaeological, paleontological and historic resources in Saskatchewan are protected under The

Heritage Property Act. Sections 23(1) and 24(1) indicate that no person shall alter, restore, repair,

disturb, transport, add to, change, move, demolish or destroy any designated property or its

buildings, structures or works, without written approval of the council of the municipality in which

the property is situated.

All sites associated with a project (including the project footprint, temporary work spaces, borrow

sites, gravel pits, etc.) must be screened to identify potential heritage-sensitive areas. It is important

to identify heritage-sensitive areas early in the planning process to ensure that historical or burial

sites and items of archaeological, cultural or heritage value are avoided.

5.2 PROCEDURE

Desktop Screening

(5.2.1)

Is the site

heritage-sensitive

or not covered?

Proceed to

Next Chapter

Project

Submission (5.2.2)

Heritage Resource

Impact Assessment

(5.2.3)

NO

YES

Is a HRIA

required?

YES

NO



DESKTOP SCREENING 5.2.1

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport (MPCS) has provided a Developers’ Online

Screening Tool to assist with identifying heritage-sensitive areas at the quarter-section level.

Coverage is not yet available province-wide but includes most areas south of Meadow Lake with a

surveyed township grid.

Use the screening tool to identify heritage-sensitive areas in the vicinity of the project.

Instructions for its use are provided on the MPCS website.

Keep a copy of all results generated by the screening tool; the results are time-stamped.

PROJECT SUBMISSION 5.2.2

If any of the quarter-sections associated with the project are indicated as heritage-sensitive or are

not covered in the tool, the project must be submitted to the MPCS Heritage Conservation Branch

for review. Submit information on the entire project, not just the heritage-sensitive quarter-sections.

The submission requires a project description (limited to 1 page) and site plans. Include the following

information:

Name and contact information for the developer (MHI) and the landowner

Legal land location of the project

Description of the project, its size, and the construction method to be used

Current condition of the land (i.e. disturbed vs. undisturbed) that will be impacted

o Refer to the presence of native prairie, forest, cultivation, reseeded pasture, and any

earlier developments

HERITAGE RESOURCE IMPACT ASSESSMENT 5.2.3

Following the review of the project submission, the MPCS will indicate whether the project can

proceed without further investigation, or if a Heritage Resource Impact Assessment (HRIA) is

required. If the project requires a HRIA, it must be conducted by an archaeological or

paleontological consultant who is qualified to conduct the study and obtain the appropriate

investigation permit. The MPCS maintains a List of Archaeological and Paleontological Consultants

who are qualified to conduct a HRIA and obtain permits. Information and forms for permits are

available on the MPCS website.









Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport: The Heritage Property Act


Developers’ Online Screening Tool, Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport

Instructions for Using the Saskatchewan Heritage Resources Online Screening Tool, Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport

List of Archaeological and Paleontological Consultants, Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport (Feb 2015)


FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 6-1 2015 07

6.0 FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

6.1 BACKGROUND

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012) regulates environmental assessment in

Canada. Under the Act, the Regulations Designating Physical Activities identify projects or activities

that require a federal environmental assessment. In addition, the Minister may designate any project

by special order to require an assessment. This process replaces all former federal assessment

triggers. Examples of designated activities that may affect MHI include, but are not limited to:

The construction, operation, decommissioning and abandonment, in a wildlife area or

migratory bird sanctuary, of a new...railway line or public highway (1(h)).

The construction, operation, decommissioning and abandonment of a new...all-season public

highway that requires a total of 50 km or more of new right of way (25(c)).

The construction, operation, decommissioning and abandonment of a new…international or

interprovincial bridge (28(a)).

6.2 PROCEDURE

Self-Assessment

(6.2.1)

Is the

activity

listed?

Proceed to

Next Chapter

Project Description

(6.2.2)

Environmental

Assessment (6.2.4)

NO

YES

Is an EA

required?

(6.2.3)

YES

NO



SELF-ASSESSMENT 6.2.1

Review the Regulations Designating Physical Activities. If the project activity is listed, a federal

environmental assessment is required. A project may also require a federal environmental

assessment by order of the Minister.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION 6.2.2

For any projects subject to a federal environmental assessment, a Project Description must be

provided to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (the Agency) that includes the

information set out in the Prescribed Information for the Description of a Designated Project

Regulations.

PRE-SUBMISSION

Prior to preparing and submitting the Project Description, it is strongly encouraged to communicate

directly with the Agency to facilitate development of a complete Project Description and support a

more timely and efficient environmental assessment process. Contact information can be found in

Appendix B.

PREPARATION

Refer to the Guide to Preparing a Description of a Designated Project under the Canadian Environmental

Assessment Act, 2012 for information on how to prepare a Project Description that will enable the

Agency to reach a decision on whether an environmental assessment of the project is required.

Timely and complete information is necessary to allow an efficient and predictable decision-making

process. The decision to proceed to the screening phase may be delayed if the Project Description

information is incomplete.

SUBMISSION

To submit the Project Description, visit the Agency’s website at https://www.ceaa-

acee.gc.ca/050/description/description-eng.cfm.

AGENCY REVIEW AND DETERMINATION 6.2.3

Once the Project Description is accepted as complete, the Agency will post a notice on its Registry

Internet site that it is considering whether an environmental assessment will be required. The public

will be notified of a 20-day comment period and the Agency must make the decision of whether an

environmental assessment is required within 45 days.

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROCESS 6.2.4

If an environmental assessment is required, the Agency will post on the Registry Internet site a

notice of the commencement of the environmental assessment. The Agency will prepare

https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/description/description-eng.cfm

https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/050/description/description-eng.cfm



environmental impact statement guidelines to be followed during development of the

environmental assessment. Conduct the environmental assessment and prepare the environmental

impact statement according to the guidelines provided by the Agency.

DECISION STATEMENT

At the end of an environmental assessment, a decision statement is issued by the Agency that states

whether the proposed project is likely to cause significant adverse effects. The statement will

include conditions consisting of mitigation measures and a follow-up program that MHI must fulfil to

proceed with the project.

FOLLOW-UP PROGRAM

A follow-up program is implemented to verify that the environmental assessment was accurate and

the mitigation measures were effective.


Historically, the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan have maintained an agreement that

provides coordination of the environmental assessment processes for projects that are subject to

both jurisdictions. Since proclamation of CEAA 2012, the agreement has not been renewed and, as

such, the federal and provincial environmental assessment processes are to be considered separate.

Projects initiated before the proclamation of CEAA 2012 continue to be subject to the Canada-

Saskatchewan Agreement on Environmental Assessment Cooperation (2005).


Government of Canada: Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012


Regulations Designating Physical Activities, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

Prescribed Information for the Description of a Designated Project Regulations, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

Guide to Preparing a Description of a Designated Project under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (Mar 2015)

Submit a Project Description, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

Canada-Saskatchewan Agreement on Environmental Assessment Cooperation (2005)


PROVINCIAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 7-1 2015 07

7.0 PROVINCIAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

7.1 BACKGROUND

The Environmental Assessment Act, 2010 is legislation regulating environmental assessment in

Saskatchewan. Projects that are likely to have significant environmental implications require

approval from the Minister before proceeding. This type of project is referred to as a ‘development’,

which is defined as any project, operation or activity, or any alteration or expansion of any project,

operation or activity, which is likely to:

Affect a unique, rare or endangered feature of the environment;

Substantially use a provincial resource;

Emit a pollutant or unregulated waste;

Cause widespread public concern about environmental change;

Involve a new technology; or

Have a significant impact on the environment.

7.2 PROCEDURE

Self-Assessment

(7.2.1)

Is the project a

development?

Proceed to

Next Chapter

Technical Proposal

(7.2.2)

Environmental

Impact Assessment

Process (7.2.4)

NO

YES

YES

NO Is the project a

development?

Self-Declare

(7.2.1)

UNSURE



SELF-ASSESSMENT (PRE-SCREENING) 7.2.1

The self-assessment process assists in identifying whether a project is likely to be a ‘development’

under the Act. It should begin with a preliminary assessment of the possible impacts of the

proposed project on the environment and their relative significance. A self-assessment checklist

with detailed explanations of each item can be found in the Ministry of Environment’s Technical

Proposal Guidelines document. For assistance answering the self-assessment questions it is beneficial

to contact an MHI Regional Environmental Project Specialist.

If the project does not appear to be a ‘development’ under the Act, an Environmental

Impact Assessment (EIA) is not required. Proceed with obtaining other regulatory approvals.

If the project appears to be a ‘development’, or if the conclusion is unclear, an EIA may be

required. Prepare a Technical Proposal for review by the Ministry of Environment.

If the project is clearly a ‘development’, there may be an option to skip the Technical

Proposal and proceed directly to the EIA stage. Contact the Ministry of Environment

Environmental Assessment Branch Applications Manager

([email protected]) to self-declare the project as a ‘development’.

TECHNICAL PROPOSAL (SCREENING) 7.2.2

Screening determines whether a proposed project, or alteration of a project, is a ‘development’.

Prepare and submit a Technical Proposal for review by the Ministry of Environment. When preparing

a Technical Proposal, it is important to follow the guidance set out in the Ministry of Environment’s

Technical Proposal Guidelines document to ensure consistency in MHI submissions and to facilitate a

more predictable and timely review by the Ministry of Environment.

A web-based application has been developed to allow online proposal submissions. Submit the

Technical Proposal along with an Application for Ministerial Determination. Any projects submitted

by a consultant on behalf of MHI must include a Letter of Authorization signed by MHI.

MINISTERIAL DETERMINATION 7.2.3

Upon reviewing the Technical Proposal, the Ministry of Environment will determine whether a

proposed project is a ‘development’.

If deemed not a development, MHI will receive a Ministerial Determination indicating that an EIA is not required. The Ministerial Determination may include enforceable conditions, such as wetland compensation requirements. Proceed with obtaining other regulatory approvals.

If deemed a development, an EIA is required.




ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS 7.2.4

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION

At an early stage in the EIA process, proponents are encouraged to undertake a program of public

involvement to identify issues that local residents feel should be addressed. Public input should be

obtained through direct notification and public meetings, and used to identify potential effects of

the project, to evaluate the significance of those effects, and to jointly plan mitigation and

enhancement measures.

DUTY TO CONSULT

In accordance with Chapter 3.0, the Aboriginal Consultation process will have already been initiated

by this stage. The Ministry of Environment is required to ensure that all necessary Aboriginal

Consultation activities have taken place before allowing the project to continue, so information from

project records may be required. Refer to Chapter 3.0 for more information.

Should the project require an EIA and be subject to the Duty to Consult, review the Ministry of

Environment’s Proponent’s Guide: Consultation with First Nations and Métis in Saskatchewan

Environmental Impact Assessment to ensure any additional consultation requirements are captured in

the EIA and documented in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Ministry of Environment

encourages incorporation of relevant ecological, traditional or other knowledge in the presentation

of information within the EIS. Common methods for working with First Nations and Métis

communities to gather and present such information include conducting project-specific traditional

knowledge and/or use studies. The Terms of Reference documenting the scope of the assessment

will require an Aboriginal Consultation Plan.

TERMS OF REFERENCE (SCOPING)

Scoping involves identifying the key impacts to be studied in the EIA and establishing a Terms of

Reference. The Terms of Reference is to outline the specific studies to undertake, how the

information will be obtained, and how the information will be presented and evaluated in the EIS.

Refer to the Ministry of Environment’s Guidelines for the Preparation of the Terms of Reference

document to ensure consistency in MHI submissions and to facilitate a more predictable and timely

review by the Ministry of Environment. A Terms of Reference template is included in Appendix A of

the Guidelines.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND STATEMENT

An EIA refers to the process of assessing the environmental impacts of a project, in accordance with

the previously-developed Terms of Reference. It results in development of a report, called an

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Ministry of Environment will conduct a completeness

check of the submitted EIS and then arrange for a technical review of the document through the

Saskatchewan Environmental Assessment Review Panel (SEARP). Should the EIS be found to be



lacking important information, the Ministry of Environment will require additional studies and/or

information to address the deficiencies.

PUBLIC REVIEW / DUTY TO CONSULT ADEQUACY ASSESSMENT

Upon satisfaction with the adequacy of the EIS, the Ministry of Environment will prepare a technical

review comments (TRC) document that summarizes the SEARP comments and provides an

evaluation of the potential environmental impacts, the significance of those impacts and the

effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures. The Ministry of Environment will ensure the TRC

document and the EIS are made available to the public for a 30 day review period, which may be

extended to 60 days at the discretion of the Minister.

The review period for potentially-impacted Aboriginal communities runs concurrently with the public

review period and seeks to confirm details of consultation efforts and whether any outstanding

concerns related to the Duty to Consult remain. If necessary, additional consultations may be

required prior to the Ministry of Environment providing a recommendation to the Minister on

whether the development should proceed.

MINISTERIAL DECISION

Following public review, the Environmental Assessment Branch will provide a recommendation to

the Minister. The Minister will consider the recommendation, EIS, technical review comments, and

any public comments received, and may either:

Approve the development with any necessary terms and conditions; or

Refuse to approve the development.

Notice of the decision is made available to the general public.

CONDITIONS MANAGEMENT / COMMITMENTS REGISTER

Every EIS requires a commitments register, which summarizes all commitments, permits and licenses

required for the project. Any conditions specific to the EIS are tracked using the Ministry of

Environment’s Environmental Assessment Tracking System (EATS). Annual reporting is required by

MHI until the EIS-specific conditions are fulfilled.


Historically, the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan have maintained an agreement that

provides coordination of the environmental assessment processes for projects that are subject to

both jurisdictions. Since proclamation of CEAA 2012, the agreement has not been renewed and, as

such, the federal and provincial environmental assessment processes are to be considered separate.



Projects initiated before the proclamation of CEAA 2012 continue to be subject to the Canada-

Saskatchewan Agreement on Environmental Assessment Cooperation (2005).


Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment: The Environmental Assessment Act, 2010


Environmental Assessment in Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)

Technical Proposal Guidelines, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)

Proponents Guide: Consultation with First Nations and Métis in Saskatchewan Environmental Impact Assessment, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)

Guidelines for the Preparation of the Terms of Reference, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)



FEDERAL AQUATIC HABITAT PROTECTION 8-1 2015 07

8.0 FEDERAL AQUATIC HABITAT PROTECTION

8.1 BACKGROUND

An amended Fisheries Act came into force in November 2013 which shifted the focus towards

managing threats to the sustainability and productivity of Canada’s commercial, recreational and

Aboriginal (CRA) fisheries. The amended Act requires that projects avoid causing serious harm to

fish that are part of or support a CRA fishery, unless authorized by the Fisheries and Oceans Canada

(DFO) Minister. DFO defines serious harm to fish as the death of fish or any permanent alteration to,

or destruction of, fish habitat of a spatial scale, duration and intensity that limits the ability of fish to

carry out one or more of their life processes.

DFO services have been consolidated into 16 regional Fisheries Protection Units across Canada;

Saskatchewan is part of the Central and Arctic Region, whose head office is located in Burlington,

ON. Regional DFO staff will review projects that pose risk of serious harm to fish and the habitat that

supports them, while allowing low-risk projects to proceed without a time-consuming and costly

departmental review or intervention.

8.2 PROCEDURE

Self-Assessment

(8.2.1)

Is there

potential for

impacts?

Proceed to

Next Chapter

Assess Avoidance &

Mitigation (8.2.2)

Application for

Authorization (8.2.4)

NO

YES

YES

NO

Are all impacts

avoided or

mitigated?

Request for Review

(8.2.3)

UNSURE




With the re-organization and streamlining of the DFO process, DFO is no longer available to directly

provide advice including whether fish are present, fish passage design is required, or what the design

fish is. MHI is expected to make these determinations themselves, or by seeking expert advice. The

following self-assessment should be conducted in its entirety to determine whether or not a DFO

review or authorization is required. Note that the self-assessment tool available on the DFO website

is only a portion of the assessment that is required to make this determination.

DETERMINE IF FISH ARE OR MAY BE PRESENT

Rely on personal observations or knowledge from previous projects in the area;

Consult an MHI Regional Environmental Project Specialist;

Obtain local knowledge from the surrounding Rural Municipalities or landowners;

Refer to the following documentation:

o Fish Species Distribution in Saskatchewan Technical Report 91-7

o Fish Species of Saskatchewan; or

Seek advice from a fisheries biologist or other qualified professional or rely on scientific data

from a fish collection study.

o NOTE: If the study or consultant costs will outweigh the cost of designing for fish

passage it may be in the Ministry’s best interest to forego gathering this information

and proceed with the assumption that there are fish.

DETERMINE WHETHER THERE IS CONNECTIVITY TO FISH BEARING WATERS AND WHETHER UPSTREAM WATER BODIES

ARE GOOD FISH SPAWNING HABITAT

A starting point to determine whether it is reasonable to expect stream connectivity may be

to look at the 1:25 year design flow. If the decision is not clear, or if professional advice costs

are high, it may be in the Ministry’s best interest to proceed with the assumption of

connectivity.

DFO has provided a Self-Assessment Tool that lists types of water bodies where DFO review is

not required. This does not negate the requirement to avoid causing serious harm to fish by

following best practices such as those described in Section 8.2.2.

DETERMINE IF THE PROJECT ACTIVITIES HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO IMPACT FISH OR FISH HABITAT

DFO has provided various Pathways of Effects Diagrams for both land-based and in-water

activities to assist in determining how the project may impact fish or fish habitat.

DFO has provided a Self-Assessment Tool that lists project activities and criteria where DFO

review is not required. This does not negate the requirement to avoid causing serious harm

to fish by following best practices such as those described in Section 8.2.2.

If the research in this step determines that there is no potential for fish, stream connectivity, or

impacts to fish or fish habitat, there is no requirement to seek authorization from DFO.



ASSESS EFFECTIVENESS OF AVOIDANCE AND MITIGATION MEASURES 8.2.2

DFO stresses the use of an “avoid-mitigate-offset” hierarchy. Start by determining if impacts can be

avoided (prevented). When avoidance is not possible, assess if impacts can be mitigated

(minimized). Any residual impacts that cannot be avoided or mitigated must be addressed by

offsetting (compensation), as a means of last resort. If impacts cannot be avoided or mitigated, your

project requires DFO authorization (section 8.3.4) before it can proceed.

DETERMINE WHAT MEASURES CAN BE TAKEN TO AVOID OR MITIGATE IMPACTS

Refer to DFO’s Measures to Avoid Causing Harm to Fish and Fish Habitat and the Saskatchewan

Restricted Activity Timing Windows for the Protection of Fish and Fish Habitat. These,

together, replace all former DFO Operational Statements.

Rely on industry standards and best practices; or

Consult a qualified professional with expertise in managing fish or fish habitat (e.g.

environmental consultant, fisheries biologist).

If the measures to be implemented on the project will allow complete avoidance or mitigation of all

potential impacts, there is no requirement to seek authorization from DFO.

REQUEST FOR REVIEW 8.2.3

If every reasonable step has been taken to determine whether or not impacts can be avoided or

mitigated and there is still uncertainty, submit a Request for Review to DFO. Guidance is provided,

along with a Request for Review form, on DFO’s website. If contacting DFO, ensure the self-

assessment has been completed and professional advice has been sought. All contact with DFO,

including inquiries, project reviews, permitting questions and occurrence reporting, must go through

DFO’s centralized contact system (Appendix B).

NOTE: A review by DFO does not result in authorization for a project or approval of a submitted design.

The intent of a DFO review is to indicate whether or not the type of project being pursued can be carried

out in a way that avoids or mitigates impacts to fish or fish habitat.

APPLICATION FOR AUTHORIZATION 8.2.4

If the project will have impacts on fish or fish habitat that cannot be avoided or mitigated, submit an

Application for Authorization to DFO. Refer to DFO’s Applicant’s Guide to Submitting an Application

for Authorization under Paragraph 35(2)(b) of the Fisheries Act. Note that there are two application

forms: one for normal circumstances and one for emergency circumstances.

If the project must be conducted without delay in response to an emergency, apply for an

Emergency Authorization. DFO recognizes the following emergency situations:

The project is required as a matter of national security



The project is being conducted in response to a national emergency where special temporary measures are being taken under the federal Emergencies Act

The project is required to address an emergency that poses a risk to public health or safety or to the environment or property.

RECORDKEEPING 8.2.5

A permanent record of all decisions with respect to the self-assessment, review or authorization

must be kept on file indefinitely for future reference by the Ministry and/or regulators. While work

can proceed without DFO involvement, auditing of projects can occur at any time in the future.


Fisheries and Oceans Canada: Fisheries Act


Fish Species Distribution in Saskatchewan Technical Report 91-7, Saskatchewan Parks and Renewable Resources (1991)

Fish Species of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Watershed Authority

Self-Assessment: Does DFO Need to Review my Project?, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Pathways of Effects, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Measures to Avoid Causing Harm to Fish and Fish Habitat, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Reviews and Authorizations, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Fisheries Protection Policy Statement, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Oct 2013)

Hydraulic Manual Section HM 301-00: Design Process, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 2014)

Hydraulic Manual Section HM 901-00: Fish Passage Design Procedure, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 2014)


PROVINCIAL AQUATIC HABITAT PROTECTION 9-1 2015 07

9.0 PROVINCIAL AQUATIC HABITAT PROTECTION

9.1 BACKGROUND

Section 35(1)(a) of The Environmental Management and Protection Act, 2010 indicates that without

holding a valid permit, no person shall cause or allow the discharge of any substance that may cause

or is causing an adverse effect to the quality of any water. Section 36(1) indicates that without a

valid permit, no person shall directly or indirectly alter or cause to be altered the configuration of;

remove, displace or add any sand, gravel or other material from, in or to; or remove vegetation from

the bed, bank or boundary of any watercourse or water body.

In Saskatchewan, both the Ministry of Environment and the Water Security Agency, in differing

circumstances, ensure aquatic habitat protection through the administration of Aquatic Habitat

Protection Permits (AHPP). The primary goal of an AHPP is to ensure aquatic habitat is preserved

and maintained at the productive level which existed prior to development activities, by controlling

erosion and sedimentation; preventing the discharge of chemicals, oil, gasoline and other

contaminants into water bodies; and protecting aquatic vegetation and other aquatic habitats.

9.2 PROCEDURE

Determine the

Project Type (9.2.1)

Proceed to

Next Chapter

Application to the

Ministry of

Environment (13.6)

Application to the

Water Security

Agency (9.2.2)

LINEAR

STANDALONE


PROVINCIAL AQUATIC HABITAT PROTECTION 9-2 2015 07

DETERMINE THE PROJECT TYPE 9.2.1

If the project involves linear projects that may impact a waterway, such as road construction or a

new highway, the Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit (AHPP) will be administered by the Ministry of

Environment.

For all other projects near water, such as standalone culvert installations, bridge installations, ferry

landings or dredging, the AHPP will be administered by the Water Security Agency.

AQUATIC HABITAT PROTECTION PERMIT APPLICATION 9.2.2

When submitting an application for an AHPP, be sure to provide information in sufficient detail to

enable reviewers to determine whether impacts on aquatic habitat are likely to occur.

AHPP submissions for linear projects (i.e. to the Ministry of Environment) will be part of the

Project Proposal discussed in Chapter 13. Outline the work that will be done and any

mitigating measures that will be put in place to ensure any impacts are minimized.

AHPP submissions for standalone projects (i.e. to the Water Security Agency) will be through

the use of an application form submitted to the appropriate Water Security Agency office.


NOTE: If the scope of work changes after receiving the permit, be sure to notify the respective agency

as an amended AHPP will need to be issued.


Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment & Saskatchewan Water Security Agency: The

Environmental Management and Protection Act, 2010


Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit Application, Water Security Agency


WETLAND PROTECTION 10-1 2015 07

10.0 WETLAND PROTECTION

10.1 BACKGROUND

There is no specific wetland legislation in Saskatchewan or Canada. Wetlands receive indirect

protection through various provincial Acts including The Environmental Management and Protection

Act, The Environmental Assessment Act, The Water Security Agency Act, and The Wildlife Act. At the

federal level, the Canada Wildlife Act, Fisheries Act, Migratory Birds Convention Act, Species at Risk Act

and Canadian Environmental Assessment Act provide some protection to wetlands through species

and habitat conservation measures.

The Saskatchewan Water Security Agency intends to develop a provincial wetland policy that

includes an assessment of the status of wetlands in the province and identification of conservation

priorities, including a strategy to retain and restore wetlands.

If there are residual impacts on wetlands after reasonable efforts have been made to avoid and

minimize effects, compensation is required to fully offset the loss of wetland function that results

from the project. This may be a condition of approval from the Ministry of Environment, requiring a

commitment from MHI.

10.2 PROCEDURE

Assess Residual

Effects (10.2.1)

Are impacts

avoided or

minimized?

Proceed to

Next Chapter

NO

YES

Develop a

Compensation

Plan (10.2.2)



ASSESS RESIDUAL EFFECTS 10.2.1

Focus on a wetland protection strategy that integrates avoidance of impacts into project screening

and systematically seeks to minimize unavoidable effects as much as possible. Then assess and plan

to offset any residual effects through compensatory actions, and monitor outcomes to ensure

project effects and offsetting mitigation actions are in balance.

For impacts that cannot be avoided or minimized, a compensation plan must be created and included

in the Project Proposal discussed in Chapter 13. In addition, approval of a project through the federal

or provincial Environmental Assessment processes may include enforceable conditions, including

requirements for wetland compensation.

DEVELOP A COMPENSATION PLAN 10.2.2

Consult an MHI Regional Environmental Project Specialist for assistance in identifying compensation

options. The Ministry of Environment is in the process of developing a Wetland Mitigation Guide to

provide assistance in avoiding, minimizing and compensating for project impacts on wetlands. The

Guide uses a formula-based approach to estimate residual project impacts and the corresponding

benefits of offsetting compensation projects using a system of debits and credits. At present, use of

the draft Wetland Mitigation Guide is not mandatory except where its use is required under an

approval issued by the Ministry of Environment. Compensation plans based on previously-approved

projects or other industry-accepted best practices may also be acceptable. Be sure to stay abreast of

wetland policy developments and related mitigation requirements as these may change over time.







Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment: The Environmental Management and Protection Act, 2002;

The Environmental Assessment Act, 2010; The Wildlife Act, 1998

Saskatchewan Water Security Agency: The Water Security Agency Act

Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency: Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012

Environment Canada: Canada Wildlife Act; Migratory Birds Convention Act; Species at Risk Act



Fisheries and Oceans Canada: Fisheries Act


Wetland Mitigation Guidelines – User Handbook, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment

The Federal Policy on Wetland Conservation, Government of Canada (1991)

25 Year Saskatchewan Water Security Plan, Water Security Agency (2012)


NAVIGATION 11-1 2015 07

11.0 NAVIGATION

11.1 BACKGROUND

The Navigation Protection Act (NPA) (formerly the Navigable Waters Protection Act) is one of

Canada’s oldest pieces of legislation, dating back to 1882, at a time when waterways were Canada’s

primary transportation routes. The public right to travel any navigable water body is protected by

Common Law, in that anything placed in water that interferes with navigation is considered an

obstruction and can be removed if it causes damage or becomes a public nuisance. The purpose of

the NPA is to make legal the construction of works such as bridges and docks in waterways that

might otherwise violate the Common Law right of navigation.

Only waters listed in the Schedule to the Act will be actively regulated by Transport Canada;

however, all other waterways remain protected under Common Law. Provisions are available in the

Act for an owner of a work in an unregulated waterway to ‘opt-in’, allowing a project to proceed

with the added legal certainty that the work’s interference with navigation is sanctioned under the

Act.

11.2 PROCEDURE

Is the project a

minor work? (11.2.1)

Proceed to

Next Chapter

Is the project on a

scheduled waterway?

(11.2.1)

Is the waterway

navigable? (11.2.1)

Consider Opting-In

(11.2.2)

NO

YES

Notice to the

Minister (11.2.3)

YES NO

YES

NO

YES/UNSURE




DETERMINE IF THE PROJECT IS A MINOR WORK / REPAIR

The Minor Works Order to the Act allows for certain works to be built if they meet the criteria for the

applicable classes of works, as well as specific terms and conditions for construction. Essentially,

these projects are considered minor and may proceed without a Notice to the Minister, regardless of

whether they are on a scheduled water body or not, as long as they comply with the requirements

set out in the Order.

NOTE: The Minor Works Order and a new Minor Repairs Order are currently under development by

Transport Canada.

DETERMINE IF THE PROJECT AFFECTS A SCHEDULED WATERWAY

The Schedule of Navigable Waters created for the NPA focuses on waters that support busy

commercial or recreational activity, are accessible by ports and marinas, and are often in close

proximity to heavily populated areas. Projects on a scheduled water body, except minor

work/repairs, will be actively regulated by Transport Canada. As of the date of this publication, the

scheduled waters in Saskatchewan include:

The North Saskatchewan River

The South Saskatchewan River; and

Lake Athabasca.

DETERMINE IF THE WATERWAY IS NAVIGABLE

For the purposes of the NPA, navigable waters are those waterways where the public has a right to

navigate the water as a highway. The following questions should be considered when determining if

a waterway is navigable:

Do the physical characteristics of the waterway support carrying (floating and traversing) a vessel of any size from one point to another?

Is there evidence of current or historical/past use by the public of the waterway as an aqueous route for navigation purposes either as a self-contained route or as part of a navigation network extending beyond the boundaries of the specific waterway?

Is there a reasonable likelihood of use by the public as an aqueous highway?

If the waterway is navigable, ensure the public right to navigate will not be compromised by the work or the completed structure. If unsure, consider opting-in.

OPTING-IN 11.2.2

An ‘opt-in’ provision of the NPA allows owners of works in non-scheduled waters to seek assessment

and potential approval of a proposed work in advance of construction. This can provide legal

certainty to proponents who may not be confident in their assessment of the project’s impact on

navigation. While the opportunity to ‘opt-in’ exists, the Minister still maintains the discretion of

accepting or refusing the ‘opt-in’ request.



To ‘opt-in’, submit an Opt-In Request to the Navigation Protection Program. Contact the regional

office for the project location for guidance (Appendix B). The minimum information that must be

provided with an Opt-In Request includes:

Waterway characteristics to determine navigability of the waterway;

An indication that the work meets the NPA definition of “work” (“work” includes any structure, device or thing, whether temporary or permanent, that is made by humans. It also includes the dumping of fill or the excavation of materials from the bed of any navigable water.);

A summary of navigation impacts that may require mitigation; and

A complete Notice to the Minister (section 11.2.3). NOTE: Works in non-scheduled navigable waters that were being reviewed by Transport Canada at the time the new legislation came into force (April 1, 2014) will continue to be reviewed under the NPA unless the owner formally requests to withdraw the application. Owners have the option to ‘opt-out’ of the legal regime within 5 years (i.e. before April 1, 2019). As of the date of this publication, MHI has not yet finalized its decision with respect to opting-out.

NOTICE TO THE MINISTER 11.2.3

A Notice to the Minister is required for all work on Scheduled navigable waters, except Minor Work,

as well as those works that have been accepted under the ‘opt-in’ provision of the Act. The minimum

information requirements for a Notice to the Minister include:

A completed Notice of Works form with all mandatory fields completed;

A location map indicating the exact location of the work;

A legal site description and work position in latitude and longitude;

Plan view drawings (top down) complete with all relevant dimensions;

Profile view drawings (side view) complete with all relevant dimensions;

A project description detailing the project;

The construction methodology outlining how the work will be undertaken; and

Anticipated start and end dates.


Transport Canada: Navigation Protection Act


Minor Works Order, Transport Canada

Schedule – Navigable Waters, Transport Canada

Opt in to the Regulatory Review Process, Transport Canada

Apply to the NPP, Transport Canada


FOREST MANAGEMENT 12-1 2015 07

12.0 FOREST MANAGEMENT

12.1 BACKGROUND

To ensure sustainable use and development of the provincial forest, care must be taken in the

harvest and handling of forest products during MHI activities. The provincial Forest Resources

Management Act requires forest users to practice sustainable forest management. Forest Product

Permits are issued to MHI in association with authorized right of way construction activities and

work in gravel pits where the removal or disturbance of forest products is incidental to those

activities.

12.2 PROCEDURE

FOREST PRODUCTS PERMIT APPLICATION 12.2.1

If the project’s activities will include the removal or disturbance of forest products and a Project

Proposal (Chapter 13) is being submitted for other permits, include forest management information

in the submission. Indicate if any forest vegetation will be disturbed and how it will be handled (i.e.

mulched, spread, buried, etc.), and provide the land location and approximate area to be cleared

(Section 13.8). A Forest Product Permit can be obtained through submission of the Project Proposal.

The permit issued will typically include a set of harvesting conditions and pit reclamation guidelines.

NOTE: Some projects, such as crushing, may not require submission of a Project Proposal. If a

Project Proposal is not being submitted for the project, a Forest Products Permit can be obtained by

contacting the local Ministry of Environment Forest Protection office directly. A link to contact

information is provided in Appendix B.

For assistance, consult with an MHI Regional Environmental Project Specialist.


FOREST MANAGEMENT 12-2 2015 07


Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment: The Forest Resources Management Act


Construction Manual Section CM 301-04: Merchantable Timber, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 1997)

Construction Manual Section CM 450-14: Clearing and Grubbing, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 1997)

Specification 2000 for Clearing and Grubbing, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jun 2011)

Specification 2010 for Removal of Selected Trees and Hedges, Saskatchewan Ministry of

Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 1998)


SUMMARY OF APPROVAL APPLICATIONS 13-1 2015 07

13.0 SUMMARY OF APPROVAL APPLICATIONS

13.1 FEDERAL EA: PROJECT DESCRIPTION

For any projects subject to a federal environmental assessment, a Project Description must be

provided to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (Chapter 6).

13.2 PROVINCIAL EA: TECHNICAL PROPOSAL

To determine whether a proposed project, or alteration of a project, is a ‘development’, prepare and

submit a Technical Proposal for review by the Ministry of Environment (Chapter 7).

13.3 FEDERAL AQUATIC: APPLICATION FOR AUTHORIZATION

If the project will have impacts on fish or fish habitat that cannot be avoided or mitigated, submit an

Application for Authorization to Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Chapter 8).

13.4 PROVINCIAL AQUATIC: AHPP APPLICATION

Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit submissions for standalone projects are done through the use of

an application form submitted to the Water Security Agency (Chapter 9). Submissions for linear

projects are part of the Project Proposal discussed in Section 13.7, below.

13.5 FEDERAL NAVIGATION: NOTICE TO THE MINISTER

A Notice to the Minister is required for all work on Scheduled navigable waters, except Minor Work,

as well as those works that have been accepted under the ‘opt-in’ provision of the Act (Chapter 11).

13.6 PROVINCIAL FOREST PRODUCTS: PERMIT APPLICATION

A Forest Product Permit can be obtained through submission of the Project Proposal discussed in

Section 13.7, below. If the project does not require submission of a Project Proposal, the permit can

be obtained by contacting the Ministry of Environment (Chapter 12).



13.7 PROVINCIAL PROJECT PROPOSAL

A Project Proposal is the mechanism used by the Ministry of Environment Landscape Stewardship

Branch to understand the details of a project and subsequently issue a variety of environmental

approvals. It is not to be confused with the Technical Proposal discussed in Section 7.2.2.

The Project Proposal application is used to obtain the bulk of provincial environmental approvals.

Completed Project Proposals are to be submitted to the area Ecological Protection Specialist Office.


The following is a basic outline of information that should be included in a Project Proposal.

INTRODUCTION 13.7.1

In this section, include a brief project summary and the need for the project. Projected start and end

dates and a schedule of project deadlines should be included if possible. If known at the time of

submission, include a list of all personnel involved in the project along with their position and contact

information; otherwise, include a Ministry contact.

WORK LOCATION 13.7.2

In this section, include a description of the work location, including any borrow sites and gravel pits if

their locations are known at the time of submission. Identify waterways and their distance from the

work sites. Include maps that show the project limits with geo-referenced coordinates.

Include the following statement, if applicable: “For borrow or gravel pits that are contractor supplied

outside of the Ministry’s right-of-way, the contractor will obtain any required permits.”

ABORIGINAL CONSULTATION 13.7.3

In this section, summarize information gathered in Chapter 3: Aboriginal Consultation. Include

information on consultation with Aboriginal groups, including a list of groups potentially affected by

the project, a description of any consultation activities already carried out, an overview of key

comments and concerns expressed by Aboriginal groups and responses to them, and a consultation

and information-gathering plan outlining any future consultation activities.

PROTECTED SPECIES 13.7.4

In this section, summarize information gathered in Chapter 4: Protected Species & Habitat Screening,

and include maps showing the results of the SKCDC rare and endangered species data layer search.

Determine which plant and animal species have the potential to occur in suitable habitat within the

project area and plan species detection surveys accordingly to confirm the presence or absence of

any rare or endangered species. If there will be impacts, mitigating measures to be taken will need

to be outlined in this section. If federal approvals are required, include information here.



HERITAGE 13.7.5

In this section, summarize information gathered in Chapter 5: Heritage Screening & Assessment.

Include a time-stamped copy of any results generated by the Developers’ Online Screening Tool, and

indicate if a project submission was made to the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport Heritage

Conservation Branch. If known at the time of submission, indicate whether a HRIA is required.

Include the following statement, if applicable: “For borrow or gravel pits that are contractor supplied

outside of the Ministry’s right-of-way, the contractor will be responsible for site screening and any

applicable heritage studies.”

AQUATIC HABITAT 13.7.6

In this section, summarize information gathered in Chapter 8: Federal Aquatic Habitat Protection and

Chapter 9: Provincial Aquatic Habitat Protection. Indicate if there are any stream crossings and if

they are fish bearing or not. Outline the work that will be done and any mitigating measures that will

be put in place to ensure that any impacts are minimized. Indicate construction timing windows for

fish and that they will be adhered to. If known at the time of submission, outline what type of

erosion control will be put in place to ensure appropriate protection until vegetation is established.

It is useful to include photographs with the submission.

WETLANDS 13.7.7

In this section, summarize information gathered in Chapter 10: Wetland Protection. Indicate whether

there will be any impacts on wetlands that cannot be avoided or mitigated and, if so, how these

impacts will be compensated. If known at the time of submission, outline what type of erosion

control will be put in place to ensure that remaining wetlands will be protected until vegetation is

established. It is useful to include photographs of the wetland areas with the submission.

FOREST MANAGEMENT 13.7.8

In this section, summarize information gathered in Chapter 12: Forest Management. Indicate if any

forest vegetation will be disturbed and how it will be handled. Indicate how merchantable timber

will be utilized, and what will happen to any non-merchantable timber. A Forest Product Permit

would be issued.

FUEL AND HAZARDOUS MATERIAL STORAGE 13.7.9

This section should include information about how all of the fuel and hazardous material will be

stored at the construction site, what type of spill kits will be onsite, what will be done in the event of

a spill, what type of secondary containment will be utilized, and what training the construction crew

has to deal with a spill. Since the Project Proposal is typically submitted prior to project tendering,

this information may be unknown.


APPENDIX A A-1 2015 07

APPENDIX A

A-1: LEGISLATION AND AUTHORITY

A-2: LINKS TO RELEVANT DOCUMENTATION



A-1: LEGISLATION AND AUTHORITY

Chapter Regulator Legislation

3.0 Aboriginal Consultation

Government of Canada Constitution Act, 1982

SK Ministry of Government Relations

SK Ministry of Justice

4.0 Protected Species

Environment Canada Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994

Species at Risk Act

SK Ministry of Environment The Wildlife Act, 1998

The Wildlife Habitat Protection Act

5.0 Heritage

SK Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport The Heritage Property Act (1980)

6.0 Federal EA

Canadian Environmental Assessment

Agency

Canadian Environmental Assessment Act,

2012

7.0 Provincial EA

SK Ministry of Environment The Environmental Assessment Act, 2010

8.0 Federal Aquatic Habitat

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Fisheries Act

9.0 Provincial Aquatic Habitat

SK Ministry of Environment The Environmental Management and

Protection Act, 2010 SK Water Security Agency

10.0 Wetland Protection

SK Ministry of Environment

The Environmental Management and

Protection Act, 2010

The Environmental Assessment Act, 2010

The Wildlife Act, 1998

SK Water Security Agency The Water Security Agency Act

Canadian Environmental Assessment

Agency

Canadian Environmental Assessment Act,

2012

Environment Canada

Canada Wildlife Act

Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994

Species at Risk Act

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Fisheries Act

11.0 Navigation

Transport Canada Navigation Protection Act

12.0 Forest Management

SK Ministry of Environment The Forest Resources Management Act

http://www.canada.ca/en/index.html

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/Const/Index.html

http://www.saskatchewan.ca/live/first-nations-citizens/duty-to-consult

http://www.justice.gov.sk.ca/

http://www.ec.gc.ca/?lang=En

http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/M-7.01/

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/S-15.3/page-38.html

http://environment.gov.sk.ca/

http://www.publications.gov.sk.ca/details.cfm?p=938


http://www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/

http://www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/Act

https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En


https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=en&n=16254939-1




http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/index-eng.htm

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/fpp-ppp/index-eng.html




https://www.wsask.ca/






https://www.wsask.ca/






http://www.ec.gc.ca/?lang=En

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/W-9/index.html

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/M-7.01/

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/S-15.3/page-38.html

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/index-eng.htm

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/fpp-ppp/index-eng.html

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/menu.htm

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/programs-632.html





A-2: LINKS TO RELEVANT DOCUMENTATION

Chapter Document

1.0 Introduction

General Provision 1650 – Environmental Protection, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure (Mar 2009)

Construction Manual Section CM 102-15: The Contract; Tender Submission Process, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (May 2005)

Construction Manual Section CM 301-03: General Guidelines and Regulations; Environmental Impact, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 1997)


Duty to Consult SharePoint Site, Government of Saskatchewan

First Nation and Métis Consultation Policy Framework, Government of Saskatchewan (Jun 2010)

Proponent Handbook: Voluntary Engagement with First Nations and Métis Communities to Inform Government’s Duty to Consult Process, Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations (Nov 2013)

Duty to Consult Process Guide for Saskatchewan Government Officials, Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations (April 2015)

Proponents Guide: Consultation with First Nations and Métis in Saskatchewan

Environmental Impact Assessment, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)


Saskatchewan Survey Protocols and Data Loadforms, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment

SKCDC Training Manual and Data Sharing Agreement, Saskatchewan Conservation Data Centre, Fish and Wildlife Branch (July 2015)

Saskatchewan Activity Restriction Guidelines for Sensitive Species, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Feb 2014)

Activity Setback Distance Guidelines for Prairie Plant Species at Risk, Canadian Wildlife Service (Oct 2011)

Species at Risk Act Public Registry and Permit System, Environment Canada

5.0 Heritage

Developers’ Online Screening Tool, Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport

Instructions for Using the Saskatchewan Heritage Resources Online Screening Tool, Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport

List of Archaeological and Paleontological Consultants, Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport (Feb 2015)

6.0 Federal EA

Regulations Designating Physical Activities, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

Prescribed Information for the Description of a Designated Project Regulations, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency Guide to Preparing a Description of a Designated Project under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (Mar 2015)

Submit a Project Description, Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency


http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Standard%20Specifications%20Manual/Section%201000%20-%201999/1650-Environmental%20Protection.pdf

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Construction%20Manual%20Volume%20I/100-Contract%20Administration/102-15-Tender%20Submission%20Process.pdf

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Construction%20Manual%20Volume%20I/300-Construction%20Details/301-03-Environmental%20Impact.pdf

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Construction%20Manual%20Volume%20I/300-Construction%20Details/301-03-Environmental%20Impact.pdf


http://environment.gov.sk.ca/EAProponentConsultationGuidelines

http://environment.gov.sk.ca/EAProponentConsultationGuidelines

http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/Default.aspx?DN=a7d1b343-5099-4578-9083-ecc975e5902e

http://www.biodiversity.sk.ca/Docs/SKCDCWildlife-manual.PDF

http://www.biodiversity.sk.ca/protocols.htm

http://ec.gc.ca/Publications/default.asp?lang=En&xml=BA6052B1-136B-45C6-9BCD-38F160A80475

http://www.registrelep-sararegistry.gc.ca/sar/permit/permits_e.cfm#permits

http://www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/SensitiveLocations

http://www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/OSTInstructions

http://www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/consultantslist

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2012-147/index.html

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2012-148/index.html

http://ceaa.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=en&n=3CA9CEE5-1

http://ceaa.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=en&n=3CA9CEE5-1

http://ceaa.gc.ca/050/description/description-eng.cfm

https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=CA6CE268-1



Chapter Document

7.0 Provincial EA

Environmental Assessment in Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)

Technical Proposal Guidelines, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)

Proponents Guide: Consultation with First Nations and Métis in Saskatchewan Environmental Impact Assessment, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (Jun 2014)

Guidelines for the Preparation of the Terms of Reference, Saskatchewan Ministry of

Environment (Jun 2014)



Fish Species Distribution in Saskatchewan Technical Report 91-7, Saskatchewan Parks and Renewable Resources (1991)

Fish Species of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Watershed Authority

Self-Assessment: Does DFO Need to Review my Project?, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Pathways of Effects, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Measures to Avoid Causing Harm to Fish and Fish Habitat, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Reviews and Authorizations, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Fisheries Protection Policy Statement, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Oct 2013)

Hydraulic Manual Section HM 301-00: Design Process, Saskatchewan Ministry of


Hydraulic Manual Section HM 901-00: Fish Passage Design Procedure, Saskatchewan

Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 2014)


Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit Application, Water Security Agency

10.0 Wetland Compensation

Wetland Mitigation Guidelines – User Handbook, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment (under development)

The Federal Policy on Wetland Conservation, Government of Canada (1991)

25 Year Saskatchewan Water Security Plan, Water Security Agency (Oct 2012)

11.0 Navigation

Minor Works Order, Transport Canada

Schedule – Navigable Waters, Transport Canada

Opt in to the Regulatory Review Process, Transport Canada

Apply to the NPP, Transport Canada


Construction Manual Section CM 301-04: Merchantable Timber, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 1997)

Construction Manual Section CM 450-14: Clearing and Grubbing, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jan 1997)

Specification 2000 for Clearing and Grubbing, Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (Jun 2011)

Specification 2010 for Removal of Selected Trees and Hedges, Saskatchewan Ministry of


http://cms.environment.gov.sk.ca/adx/aspx/adxgetmedia.aspx?MediaID=2d5b76a3-499c-46a0-83a0-bd4c1a6b54da&Filename=Environmental%20Assessment%20in%20Saskatchewan.pdf

http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/EATechnicalProposalGuidelines

http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/EAProponentConsultationGuidelines

http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/EAProponentConsultationGuidelines

http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/adx/aspx/adxGetMedia.aspx?DocID=3e2f80f6-d73d-4bdb-a413-318976f30a6b

https://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=CA6CE268-1

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Contractors%20and%20Consultants/Environment%20Stewardship/Directives/Federal%20Fisheries%20Act/Fish%20Species%20Distribution%20in%20%20SK.pdf

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Contractors%20and%20Consultants/Environment%20Stewardship/Directives/Federal%20Fisheries%20Act/Fish%20Species%20SK.pdf

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/index-eng.html

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/pathways-sequences/index-eng.html

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/measures-mesures/index-eng.html

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/reviews-revues/index-eng.html

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/pol/index-eng.html

http://highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Hydraulic%20Manual/01%20Manual/Hydraulic%20Manual%20(Dec%202014).pdf

http://highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Hydraulic%20Manual/01%20Manual/Hydraulic%20Manual%20(Dec%202014).pdf

https://www.wsask.ca/Water-Programs/Aquatic-Habitat-Protection/

http://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/100725/publication.html

https://www.wsask.ca/About-WSA/25-Year-Water-Security-Plan/


http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/n-22/FullText.html#h-27



http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Construction%20Manual%20Volume%20I/300-Construction%20Details/301-04-Merchantable%20Timber.pdf

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Construction%20Manual%20Volume%20I/400-Grading/450-14-Clearing%20and%20Grubbing.pdf

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Standard%20Specifications%20Manual/Section%202000%20-%202999/2000-Clearing%20And%20Grubbing.pdf

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/Doing%20Business%20with%20MHI/Ministry%20Manuals/Standard%20Specifications%20Manual/Section%202000%20-%202999/2010-Removal%20Of%20Selected%20Trees%20And%20Hedges.pdf


APPENDIX B B-1 2015 07

APPENDIX B

B-1: CONTACT INFORMATION



B-1: CONTACT INFORMATION

Chapter Agency Contact Information

General

SK Ministry of Highways & Infrastructure (MHI)

MHI Northern Region Elaine Molnar, Regional Environmental Project Specialist (306) 953-3534 • [email protected]

MHI Central Region Trevor Housen, Regional Environmental Project Specialist (306) 933-5085 • [email protected]

MHI Southern Region Brad Hannan, Regional Environmental Project Specialist (306) 787-0386 • [email protected]

MHI Technical Standards Shauna Lehmann, Senior Environmental Engineer (306) 933-7603 • [email protected]


SK Ministry of Government Relations

Lands and Consultation Branch 610 - 1855 Victoria Avenue Regina, SK S4P 3T2 Tel.: 306-787-5722 Email: [email protected]


Saskatchewan Conservation Data Centre

Fish and Wildlife Branch Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment 3211 Albert Street Regina, SK S4S 5W6 Tel.: 306-787-7196


3211 Albert Street Regina, SK S4S 5W6 Tel.: 306-787-2584 Email: [email protected]

Parks Canada

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Fisheries Protection Program 867 Lakeshore Road Burlington, ON L7R 4A6 Tel.: 1-855-852-8320 Email: [email protected]

Species at Risk Public Registry

Species at Risk Public Registry Office 351 St. Joseph Boulevard, 21st Floor Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H3 Tel.: 800-668-6767 Email: [email protected]

5.0 Heritage

SK Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport

Heritage Conservation Branch 2nd Floor, 3211 Albert Street Regina, SK S4S 5W6 Tel.: (306) 787-2817

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/

http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/












http://www.pc.gc.ca/

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/


http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/

http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/


http://www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/heritage

http://www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/heritage



Chapter Agency Contact Information

6.0 Federal EA

Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

Prairie and Northern Regional Office Canada Place 9700 Jasper Avenue, Suite 1145 Edmonton, AB T5J 4C3 Tel.: 780-495-2037

7.0 Provincial EA


Environmental Assessment Branch 4th Floor, 3211 Albert Street Regina, SK S4S 5W6 Tel.: 306‐787‐6132 Email: [email protected]


Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Fisheries Protection Program 867 Lakeshore Road Burlington, ON L7R 4A6 Tel.: 1-855-852-8320 Email: [email protected]


SK Water Security Agency

Regina Office 440 – 2365 Albert Street Regina, SK S4P 4K1 Tel.: 306-787-0726

11.0 Navigation

Transport Canada

Navigation Protection Program Canada Place 1100-9700 Jasper Avenue (RMEB) Edmonton, AB T5J 4E6



Forest Protection Offices: http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/Contact Forest Service Branch Suite 201 - 1061 Central Avenue Prince Albert, SK Tel.: 306-953-2221

13.0 Summary of Approval Applications


General Inquiries Email: [email protected] Landscape Stewardship Branch – Lands Section 3rd Floor – 3211 Albert Street Regina, SK S4S 5W6 Tel.: 306-787-5751 Ecological Protection Specialist contact information and map available in The Ministry of Environment Application Guidelines for Linear Development Projects document. Contact an MHI Regional Environmental Project Specialist for a current copy.

http://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/

http://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/

http://environment.gov.sk.ca/EnvironmentalAssessment


http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/


https://www.wsask.ca/Water-Programs/Aquatic-Habitat-Protection/



http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/Contact


http://www.environment.gov.sk.ca/Contact


ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVALS GUIDE - Saskatchewan Business with MHI... · 2018-04-12 · MHI...

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