9 environmental and social management...

FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY REPORT FOR THE PHASE 2 CONNECTING 17 REMOTE FIRST NATION COMMUNITIES PROJECT SECTION 9.0: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

November 2018 Report No. 18102677 GAL-005-REP-V1 9-1

9 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

9.1 Introduction The Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) outlines Wataynikaneyap’s commitment to managing and carrying out the Phase 2 Connecting 17 Remote First Nation Communities Project (the Project) in a responsible, safe and sustainable manner whereby protection of the environment and safety of people take priority above all other business matters. The ESMP contains specific action plans, standards and procedures that all Wataynikaneyap’s employees, contractors and subcontractors must adopt and adhere to.

The purpose of the ESMP is to make sure that social and environmental effects, risks and liabilities identified during the environmental assessment (EA) process are effectively managed during the Project’s construction, operation and maintenance stages. The ESMP outlines environmental and social management plans as best management practices that Wataynikaneyap is committed to implementing, in order to prevent and/or reduce negative Project effects while enhancing its benefits. These best management practices have guided the EA process. In many cases, potential negative effects have been avoided through careful design and location of facilities.

9.1.1 Project Overview The Project involves the construction, operation and maintenance of approximately 1,500 kilometres (km) of alternating current (AC) transmission lines, with voltages of 115-kV, 44-kV, and 25-kV, substations, and associated infrastructure. The Project encompasses two transmission line subsystems, (i.e., Pickle Lake and Red Lake) that will connect 17 remote First Nation communities, currently powered by diesel generation, to the provincial electrical grid. The main components of the Project are as following:

Approximately 1,500 km of new overhead lines for the two subsystems (i.e., Pickle Lake and Red Lake), and their associated components to be located within a 2 kilometre (km)-wide corridor, that includes a 40-metre (m)-wide transmission line alignment right-of-way (ROW).

Substations located in, or near, each of the 17 First Nation communities, including either upgrades to existing stations or new connections to existing distribution facilities.

Structures associated with construction such as construction camps, access roads, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas, waterbody crossings, waste management, and staging areas and aggregate pits.

Some of these structures may be temporary and some permanent as discussed in Section 3.0.

Project activities have been grouped by Project stages into: (i) construction and (ii) operation and maintenance. Construction activities include:

transmission line construction;

surveying;

construction of infrastructure;

clearing of the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and construction of ROW access;

staking of structure and guy anchor locations;



material distribution;

installation of structure foundations;

assembly and erection of transmission structures;

installation of conductors;

counterpoise installation;

construction of substations;

decommissioning of temporary construction infrastructure;

temporary construction camps and offices;

temporary and permanent access roads, and bridges;

aggregate pits;

staging and laydown areas;

clean‐up and rehabilitation; and

post-construction monitoring.

The operation and maintenance stage starts once the construction stage is completed. Post-construction monitoring continues into the operation and maintenance stage.

Project operation involves the transmission of electricity through the conductors between the Red Lake and Pickle Lake connections and the 17 remote communities. The Project is predicted to operate on a continuous basis. Maintenance activities include regular inspection of the transmission lines and associated infrastructure, and any necessary repairs and mechanical vegetation management along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW.

9.1.2 Scope and Objectives The ESMP provides a summary of Project activities, their related potential effects and the corresponding recommended mitigation measures to be carried out during the life of the Project (i.e., construction and operation and maintenance stages). It outlines remedial and mitigation measures in various environmental and social management plans to be carried out to prevent or minimize effects on the physical, biological and socio-economic/socio-cultural environments as well as to promote occupational health and safety of employees.

The objective of the ESMP is to consider and develop proper measures and controls to decrease the potential for negative effects to environment during all stages of the Project, and to provide clearly defined action plans and emergency response procedures to account for human and environmental health and safety.

Information collected throughout the implementation of these plans will be used to evaluate predictions made in the environmental assessment of the Project, and allow Wataynikaneyap to make corrective plans and take corrective actions where necessary. Therefore, the ESMP is a “live” document that will be updated as the Project progresses.



The key objectives of the ESMP are to:

Formalize and disclose Wataynikaneyap’s commitments for environmental and social management; and

Provide a framework for the implementation of environmental and social management best practices.

9.1.3 Structure The ESMP outlines the environmental and social management procedures and mitigation measures applicable to the Project and includes the topics, which are common to all environmental and social disciplines.

The ESMP is structured as follows:

Section 9.1 – Introduction, which describes Project overview, Scope and Objectives of the ESMP, Structure and Intended Users.

Section 9.2 – Environmental and Social Management, which provides an overview of the applicable regulatory requirements for the Project, a summary of potential environmental and social effects and applicable management plans, the Project’s Environmental and Social Management Framework, and Roles and Responsibilities.

Section 9.3 – Environmental Management Plan, which outlines the Dust/Air Quality Management Plan, Greenhouse Gas Management Plan, Noise Management Plan, Soil Handling Management Plan, Timber Salvage Plan, Rare Plant Management Plan, Invasive Species Management Plan, Material Storage and Handling Plan, Liquid Waste Management Plan, Hazardous Waste Management Plan, Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan, Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan, Sediment and Erosion Control Plan, Blasting Management Plan, Concrete Management Plan, Clean-up and Reclamation Plan, Archaeology Management Plan, Cultural Heritage Management Plan, Post-construction Monitoring Plan, Vegetation Management Plan and Adaptive Management Strategy.

Section 9.4 – Social Management Plan, which outlines the Procurement Plan, Employment and Participation Plan, Skills Development and Training Plan, Workforce Accommodation Management Plan, Aboriginal and Stakeholder Engagement Plan, Traffic/Road Management Plan, and Occupational Health and Safety Plan.

Section 9.5 – Monitoring and Review of Environmental and Social Management Plan, which outlines requirements for monitoring and audits of the ESMP, and an Adaptive Management Strategy.

9.1.4 Intended Users The ESMP specifies the environmental standards to be adhered to by Wataynikaneyap, its contractors and subcontractors during the life of the Project. The goal of the ESMP is to communicate the potential environmental and social effects associated with the Project and the procedures and mitigation measures that are required to be implemented.

The Project Team will utilize the ESMP during Project execution to achieve effective and appropriate environmental and social management.



9.2 Environmental and Social Management 9.2.1 Applicable Regulatory Requirements Prior to construction, the Project requires provincial and federal regulatory approvals and authorizations summarized in Table 1.6-1. The required additional approvals will be confirmed as Project planning and design progress.

9.2.2 Environmental Assessment Potential environmental and social effects have been assessed for the Project and are summarized along with their applicable environmental and social management plans, in Table 9.2-1. These plans are outlined in Sections 9.3 and 9.4.



Table 9.2-1: Potential Environmental and Social Effects

Environmental and Social Components Project Activity Potential Effect Applicable Plans

Surface Water Project activities during the construction stage: Discharges of wastewater from construction, vehicle and equipment

wash, and domestic activities.

Changes to surface water quantity and surface water quality from short-term wastewater discharges.

Section 5.1 Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.10)

Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the 40 m-wide transmission line alignment 40 m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps);

surface water management and erosion control; aggregate pits; concrete mixing on-site or in batch plants; operation of vehicles, construction equipment and diesel generators;

and transportation of personnel, materials and equipment. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment.

Changes to surface water quality from the transport and delivery of airborne particulate matter to nearby waterbodies.

Section 5.1 Aggregate supply mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1) Soil Handling and Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)

Project activities during the construction stage: Hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling.

Changes to surface water quality from the wash-off of trash and leachate at waste handling and storage facilities to nearby waterbodies.

Section 5.1 Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section (Section 9.3.1.10) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan

(Section 9.3.1.12) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Mechanical vegetation maintenance along 40-m-wide transmission

line alignment ROW at an appropriate height to protect the facility and improve public and worker safety.

Changes to surface water quality from the wash-off of organic debris from mechanical vegetation maintenance activities to adjacent waterbodies.

Section 5.1 Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)

Project activities during the construction stage: hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling; re-fueling, service and maintenance of vehicles and construction

equipment; operation of vehicles, construction equipment and diesel generators;

and transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment.

Changes to surface water quality and maintenance from the wash-off of accidental spills and leaks to nearby waterbodies.

Section 5.1 Material Storage and Handling Plan (Section 9.3.1.9) Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section (Section 9.3.1.10) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan


(Section 9.3.1.13) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Traffic/Road Management Plan (Section 9.4.7)





Surface Water Project activities during the construction stage: Use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission

structures, roads and for foundation excavations.

Changes to surface water quality from the wash-off of explosives spills and residues from blasting activities to nearby waterbodies.

Section 5.1 Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Blasting Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.15)

Project activities during the construction stage: Water taking from surface water sources for the purposes of

construction and water supply.

Changes to surface water quantity from short-term water taking.

Section 5.1 Water taking mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Aggregate supply mitigation measures (Section 9.3)


stockpiling of materials along the 40 m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps);

surface water management and erosion control; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, turn-around areas,

laydown areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps.

Changes to surface water quality from the wash-off of organic debris from work sites to nearby waterbodies, and/or increased rates of erosion in disturbed and exposed areas with sediment transport and delivery to adjacent waterbodies.

Section 5.1 Aggregate supply mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)


stockpiling of materials along the 40 m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps);

surface water management and erosion control; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, turn-around areas,

temporary laydown areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps.

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, fencing, transmission line,

conductors, tower foundations, and permanent access roads.

Changes to surface water quantity and surface water quality due to changes in land cover.

Section 5.1 Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)

Project activities during the construction stage: Upgrade of existing waterbody crossings, and construction of new

waterbody crossings.

Changes to surface water quantity and surface water quality during short-term water diversions at waterbody crossings.

Section 5.1 Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3)



Changes to surface water quantity and surface water quality due to changes in channel hydraulics at waterbody crossings.

Section 5.1 Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)





Groundwater Project activities during the construction stage: Transportation of personnel, materials and equipment; and Hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling.

Changes to groundwater quality from transportation of personnel, materials and equipment, hazardous materials, solid and liquid handling.

Section 5.2 Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section (Section 9.3.1.10) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan


(Section 9.3.1.13) Project activities during the construction stage: Foundation installation including dewatering activities

Changes to groundwater quantity from excavations for foundations and dewatering activities.

Section 5.2 Water taking mitigation measures (Section 9.3)

Changes to groundwater quality from excavations for foundations and dewatering excavations.


Project activities during the construction stage: Clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW, substations, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps).

Changes to groundwater quantity from vegetation clearing that affects recharge thereby potentially increasing groundwater table levels.

Section 5.2 Timber Salvage Plan (9.3.1.5) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14)

Project activities during the construction stage: Construction of access roads, substations including fencing, and the

40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW.

Changes to groundwater quantity from hardening of surfaces (redirection of flow) through construction and maintenance of access roads, substations including fencing, and the 40-m wide transmission line alignment ROW.

Section 5.2

Changes to groundwater quality may be caused by disturbing shallow soils with potentially pre-existing contamination.

Section 5.2 Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)

Project activities during the construction stage: Potential use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for

transmission structures, roads and for foundation excavations.

Changes to groundwater quantity from blasting. Section 5.2 Blasting Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.15)

Changes to groundwater quality from the use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission structures, roads and for foundation excavations.

Section 5.2 Blasting Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.15)

Project activities during the construction stage: Pumping of wells for supply of water to temporary construction camps

Changes to groundwater quantity associated with operation of construction camp water supply wells


Changes to groundwater quality associated with operation of construction camp water supply wells

Water taking mitigation measures (Section 9.3)

Project activities during the construction stage: Installation of treated wood utility poles used to support transmission

lines.

Changes to groundwater quality due to leaching of chemicals into groundwater in areas of high water table and at nearby water supply wells.

Section 5.2





Air Quality Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the 40 m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps);

operation of vehicles, construction equipment, and diesel generators; reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown

areas, staging areas, and construction camps; and concrete mixing on-site or in batch plants.

Changes in Indicator Compounds from construction activities

Section 5.3 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1)

Climate Change Project activities during the construction stage, including: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the 40 m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas turn-around areas and temporary construction camps);


areas, turn-around areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps; and

transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment.

Changes in Greenhouse gas emissions from construction activities

Section 5.4 Greenhouse Gas Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.2) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5)

Noise Project activities during the construction stage: construction along the ROW, including flagging and clearing, staking,

geotechnical investigations, and installation of foundations; and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, substations (including TSs and SSs), temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas, and temporary construction camps).

Noise emissions from construction activities could increase existing noise levels at potential PORs.

Section 5.5 Noise Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.3)

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: maintenance and inspection of the ROW, fencing, transmission line,

conductors, tower foundations, substations (including TSs and SSs) and access roads;

operation of substations (including TSs and SSs); and electricity transmission.

Noise emissions from operation and maintenance stage activities could increase existing noise levels at potential PORs.

Section 5.5





Vegetation and Wetlands Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the 40 m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps);

surface water management and erosion control; hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling; maintenance of site services; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown

areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, fencing, transmission line,


Site preparation, construction and operation activities can result in the loss or alteration of upland, wetland and riparian ecosystems.

Reduced soil quantity during earth moving activities may affect revegetation.

Soil disturbance and stockpiling can change physical, chemical or biological properties of soil, increase erosion potential and affect revegetation.

Section 6.1 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Surface water mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Rare Plant Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.6) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (9.3.1.11) Non-hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan


(Section 9.3.1.13) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)



water taking from surface water sources for the purposes of construction and water supply;

surface water management and erosion control; discharges of wastewater from construction, vehicle and equipment

wash, and domestic activities; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown

areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps.

Changes to hydrology may alter drainage patterns and increase/decrease drainage flows and surface water levels, which could cause changes to soils and upland, wetland and riparian ecosystems.

Section 6.1 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17).

Project activities during construction stage: re-fuelling, service and maintenance of vehicles and construction

equipment; operation of vehicles, construction equipment, and diesel generators;

and hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment.

Chemical or hazardous material spills on the Project footprint or along access roads can affect soil quality and upland, wetland and riparian ecosystems

Section 6.1 Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (9.3.1.11) Non-Hazardous Waste Management Plan (9.3.1.12) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13)





Vegetation and Wetlands Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and


use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission structures, roads, and for foundation excavations; and

reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps.



Dust and air emissions, and subsequent deposition can affect upland, wetland and riparian ecosystems through changes in soil quality and direct contact with plants

Section 6.1 Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1) Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4)


stockpiling of materials along the 40 m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas, and temporary construction camps); and




Introduction and spread of noxious and invasive plant species can affect upland, wetland and riparian ecosystems.

Section 6.1 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Invasive Species Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.7) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)

Fish and Fish Habitat Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and


surface water management and erosion control; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown

areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, fencing transmission line,


Changes to fish habitat quantity and quality through physical alteration of waterbodies.

Section 6.2 Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Undocumented Waterbody Discovery Plan (Section 9.3.1.20)





Fish and Fish Habitat Project activities during the construction stage: grubbing of vegetation along the 40 m-wide transmission line

alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps); and


Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, fencing transmission line,


Changes to fish habitat quantity and quality through changes to riparian vegetation.

Section 6.2 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)




areas, staging areas, and construction camps. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, fencing transmission line,


Injury or mortality of fish from instream construction.

Section 6.2 Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)






Changes in habitat quality, affecting fish downstream from waterbody crossings, from release of sediment during road construction at waterbody crossings and from land disturbance.

Section 6.2 Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)






stockpiling of materials along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps);


areas, staging areas and temporary construction camps. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, fencing transmission line,


Changes in channel morphology, affecting fish habitat quantity and quality, from placement of waterbody crossing structures.



stockpiling of materials along the 40-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps);




Changes in fish access to habitats, affecting fish abundance, from placement of waterbody crossing structures.



stockpiling of materials along the 40-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps);




Changes to hydrology or groundwater may alter drainage patterns and increase or decrease drainage flows and surface water levels, which could affect fish habitat quantity and quality


Project activities during the construction stage: Use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission

structures, roads, and for foundation excavations.

Injury or mortality of fish from use of explosives to create level areas for transmission structures, for foundation excavations, and access road installation.







stockpiling of materials along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps);


areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps; and concrete mixing on-site or in batch plants.

Changes to air contaminants and fugitive dust emissions resulting from the Project could lead to changes to constituent concentrations in water in the receiving environment, which could affect fish habitat quantity and quality.

Section 6.2 Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1)

Project activities during the construction stage: surface water management and erosion control; discharges of wastewater from construction, vehicle and equipment

wash, and domestic activities; refuelling, service, and maintenance of vehicles and construction

equipment; and hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling.

Changes to surface water and sediment quality from spills of fuel or other materials can affect fish reproduction and survival, and as a result, abundance.

Section 6.2 Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Material Storage and Handling Plan (Section 9.3.1.9) Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.10) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan


(Section 9.3.1.13) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)


stockpiling of materials along the 40-wide transmission line alignment ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps).

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of new ROW, fencing, transmission line,

conductors, tower foundations, and permanent access roads; and mechanical vegetation maintenance along ROW at an appropriate

height to protect the facility and improve public and worker safety.

Changes to public access to recreational fishing areas could affect fish abundance.

Section 6.2 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)





Wildlife Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation,

and stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., substations, access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps);

surface water management and erosion control; transportation of personal, materials and equipment; hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown

areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including

fencing, transmission line, tower foundations and permanent access roads.

Site preparation, construction, operation and maintenance activities can result in the loss or alteration of vegetation and topography that may change habitat availability, use, and connectivity and influence wildlife abundance and distribution.

Section 6.3 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Rare Plant Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.6) Wildlife Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.8) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)


stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., substations, access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps);



Changes to hydrology may alter drainage patterns and increase/decrease drainage flows and surface water levels that can cause changes to soils and vegetation, which can affect wildlife habitat availability and distribution.

Section 6.3 Waterbody crossing mitigation measures (Section 9.3)


stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., substations, access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps);

transportation of personal, materials and equipment; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown

areas, turn-around areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps.

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including

fencing, transmission line, conductors, tower foundations and permanent access roads.

Introduction and spread of noxious and invasive plant species can affect plant community composition, which can affect wildlife habitat availability and distribution.

Section 6.3 Invasive Species Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.7) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)





Wildlife Project activities during the construction stage: transportation of personal, materials and equipment; surface water management and erosion control; and hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including

fencing, transmission line, conductors, tower foundations and permanent access roads; and


Use of linear corridors and converted habitat (i.e., younger, more productive forest) by prey and predators leading to decreases in survival and reproduction of caribou and moose.

Section 6.3 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Wildlife Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.8) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)

Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation,

and stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., substations, access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps); surface water management and erosion control;

transportation of personal, materials and equipment; and hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling; and operation of

vehicles, construction equipment and diesel generators. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including


reclamation of decommissioned access roads; and temporary laydown areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps

Mechanical vegetation clearing will result in an increase in edge habitat, which could increase nest predation or parasitism risk for forest breeding birds.

Section 6.3 Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5)

Collisions with Project vehicles during construction and operation may cause injury or mortality to individual animals.

Section 6.3 Wildlife Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.8)

Collisions with the transmission line causing injury or mortality to bat and birds criteria.


Site preparation, construction and maintenance of the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW may result in the potential loss of nests, eggs, and individuals of migratory birds (incidental take).


Site preparation, construction and maintenance of the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW may result in the potential loss of wolverine dens (incidental take).


Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation,

and stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., substations, access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps); surface water management and erosion control;

transportation of personal, materials and equipment; and hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling; and

maintenance of site services. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including



Site preparation, construction and maintenance of the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW may result in the accidental mortality of roosting and hibernating bats (incidental take).






Wildlife Project activities during the construction stage: Hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling.

Attraction of wildlife to the Project (e.g., food waste, petroleum-based products, salt) during construction may increase human-wildlife interactions and change predator-prey relationships, which can affect wildlife survival and reproduction.

Section 6.3 Wildlife Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.8) Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.10) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan

(Section 9.3.1.12) Project activities during the construction stage: Use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission


Fly rock from blasting may result in injury or mortality to wildlife.

Section 6.3 Wildlife Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.8) Blasting Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.15)


stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., substations, access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps).

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including


electricity transmission.

Electrocution causing injury or mortality to birds. Section 6.3 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3)

Electromagnetic fields from the transmission line may cause changes to wildlife survival and reproduction.

Section 6.3

Increase in public access could affect wildlife survival and reproduction through vehicle strikes, and/or legal and illegal hunting and trapping.

Section 6.3 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Wildlife Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.8)

Project activities during the construction stage: transportation of personal, materials and equipment; hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling; and re-fuelling, service and maintenance of vehicles and construction

equipment. Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including

fencing, transmission line, conductors, tower foundations and permanent access roads

Chemical or hazardous material stored on the Project site, or spills (e.g., petroleum products) on site or along access or haul roads can affect wildlife survival and reproduction

Section 6.3 Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Non-Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Sections 9.3.1.12). Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13)

Project activities during the construction stage: Clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation,

and stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., substations, access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps); transportation of personal, materials and equipment.

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of new ROW, substations including



Dust and air emissions, and subsequent deposition can change soil quality and vegetation, which can affect wildlife habitat availability and distribution






Archaeological Resources Project activities during the construction stage: Clearing, grading earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads including turn around areas, substations, bridges, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps).

Loss of, or damage to, an archaeological resource from construction activities.

Section 7.1 Archaeology Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.18)


stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn around areas, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps);

surface water management and erosion control; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, turn around areas,

temporary laydown areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps.



Loss of, or damage to, an archaeological resource located downstream from the Project from erosion resulting from increased streamflows.

Section 7.1 General mitigation measures (Section 9.3) Archaeology Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.18) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)



Operation and maintenance of the Project footprint could increase access to archaeological resources


Project activities during the construction stage: Loss of, or damage to, an archaeological resource from construction

activities

Alteration of the landscape can result in damage or destruction of both marine and terrestrial archaeological resources.


Heritage Resources Project activities during the construction stage: clearing and grubbing of vegetation along the 40-m-wide transmission

line alignment ROW, access roads and other construction areas; and foundation and conductor installation.

Alteration or destruction of a cultural heritage resource from vibration of construction equipment during construction clearing and grubbing of vegetation along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW, substations, access roads and temporary construction areas.

Section 7.2 Cultural Heritage Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.19)





Socio-economics Labour Market Project activities during the construction stage: Employment of personnel, procurement of materials goods and

services.

Increase in direct, indirect and induced employment due to Project labour demand

Increase in income due to Project payment of wages and salaries

Increase in training opportunities and skills development

Section 7.3 Indigenous Participation Plan (Section 9.4.2) Skills Development and Training Plan (Section 9.4.3)

Regional Economy Project activities during the construction stage: Employment of personnel, procurement of materials, goods and

services.

Increase in business opportunities and revenues due to contracting, Project spending, and spending of employment income

Section 7.3 Indigenous Participation Plan (Section 9.4.2)

Regional Economy Project activities during the construction stage (all)

Decrease in forest business opportunity due to change in available timber forest land base

Section 7.3 Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5)

Government Finance Project activities during the operations and maintenance stage.

Increase in government revenue due to Project-related income and other taxes.

No mitigation required.

Government Finance Project activities during the construction stage

Increase in local government expenditure and demand of local services due to Project direct use of municipal services and infrastructure.

Section 7.3 Waste Management Plans (Sections 9.3.1.10, 9.3.1.11,

9.3.1.12) Rental Housing and Temporary Accommodation Project activities during the construction stage: Employment and procurement of goods and services.

Increased demand on temporary accommodation in Sioux Lookout, Red Lake and Thunder Bay.

Section 7.3

Services and Infrastructure Project activities during the construction stage: Employment and procurement of goods and services.

Increased demand on education services, non-emergency healthcare services, social services, recreational services, and utilities due to Project-induced in-migration

Section 7.3

Services and Infrastructure Project activities during the construction stage: Employment and procurement of goods and services.

Increased demand on emergency and protective services from Project workforce

Section 7.3 Occupational Health and Safety Plan (Section 9.4.6) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Services and Infrastructure Project activities during the construction stage Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage

Increased demand on power, water, waste water and solid waste services from Project activities

Section 7.3 Waste Management Plans (Section 9.3.1.10, 9.3.1.11, 9.3.1.12)

Transportation Project activities during the construction stage

Increased use of and demand for on road transportation services due to Project construction activities

Increased use of and demand for on air and transportation services from Project construction activities

Section 7.3 Traffic/Road Management Plan (Section 9.4.7)

Community Wellbeing Project activities during the construction stage

Project construction activities could affect air quality along the ROW; potential for nuisance effects






Socio-economics Community Wellbeing Project activities during the construction stage

Project construction activities could affect ambient noise levels along the ROW; potential for nuisance effects.


Community Wellbeing Project activities during the operations and maintenance stage

Project operation activities could affect ambient noise levels in and around the substation; potential for nuisance effects.

Section 7.3


Project construction activities could expose the public to physical hazards, affecting public safety.

Section 7.3 Material Storage and Handling Plan (Section 9.3.1.9); Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.10); Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11); Non-Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.12); Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13); Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17); Traffic/Road Management Plan (Section 9.4.7); and Occupational Health and Safety Plan (Section 9.4.6).


Potential interaction between the workers staying at temporary Project camps and local communities could affect community health

Section 7.3





Non-Aboriginal Land and Resource Use Parks and Protected Areas Project activities during the construction stage: surveying and flagging; clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps);

use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission structures, roads and for foundation excavations;

foundation installation, including dewatering activities; concrete mixing on-site including batch plants; assembly and erection of transmission structures including staking of

structure and guy anchor locations; testing and commissioning; construction of substation; operation of vehicles, construction equipment, and diesel generators; transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; helicopter access for construction activities; surface water management and erosion control; upgrade of existing waterbody crossings, and construction of new

waterbody crossing; reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown


employment of personnel, procurement of materials and goods and services during the construction stage.


conductors, tower foundations, and permanent access roads; mechanical vegetation maintenance along ROW at an appropriate

height to protect the facility and improve public and worker safety; transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; and helicopter access for operation and maintenance activities.

Changes in: Changes in parks and protected areas

access and area use; Change in environmental setting of parks

and protected areas; and Changes in the natural, cultural and

recreational values in parks and protected areas.

Section 7.4 Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1) Noise Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.3) Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4) Rare Plant Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.6) Invasive Species Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.7) Material Storage and Handling Plan (Section 9.3.1.9) Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.10) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Non Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan


(Section 9.3.1.13) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Archaeology Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.18) Cultural Heritage Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.19) Blasting Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.15) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Post-construction Monitoring Plan (Section 9.3.2.1) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)





Non-Aboriginal Land and Resource Use Outdoor Tourism and Recreational Land and Resource Use Project activities during the construction stage: surveying and flagging; clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and


use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission structures, roads, and for foundation excavations;


structure and guy anchor locations; testing and commissioning; construction of substation; operation of vehicles, construction equipment, and diesel generators; transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; helicopter access for construction activities; surface water management and erosion control; upgrade of existing waterbody crossings, and construction of new






height to protect the facility and improve public and worker safety; transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; and helicopter

access for operation and maintenance activities.

Changes in outdoor tourism and recreation access and area use.

Changes in outdoor tourism and recreation environmental setting.

Changes in fish and wildlife resource availability and harvest levels.

Section 7.4 Blasting Management Plan (Section 9.3.15) Dust/Air Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Hazardous Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.11) Invasive Species Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.7) Liquid Waste Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.10) Material Storage and Handling Plan (Section 9.3.1.9) Noise Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.3) Non Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan

(Section 9.3.1.12) Post-construction Monitoring Plan (Section 9.3.2.1) Rare Plant Management Plan (section 9.3.1.6) Sediment and Erosion Control Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.4) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Traffic/Access Management Plan (Section 9.4.5) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)





Non-Aboriginal Land and Resource Use Extraction Industry Land and Resource Use Project activities during the construction stage: surveying and flagging; clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and constructions areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, fencing, bridges, temporary laydown areas, turn-around areas and temporary construction camps);


foundation installation including dewatering activities; concrete mixing, on-site or in batch plants assembly and erection of transmission structures including staking of

structure and guy anchor locations; testing and commissioning; construction of substation; operation of vehicles, construction equipment, and diesel generators transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; helicopter access for construction activities; surface water management and erosion control; upgrade of existing waterbody crossings, and construction of new



Employment of personnel, procurement of materials, goods and services during the construction stage.

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation, maintenance of new ROW, fencing, transmission line,


height to protect the facility and improve public and worker safety; and transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; helicopter


Changes in: Land use quantity; and Resource Availability.

Archaeology Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.18) Cultural Heritage Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.19) Clean up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1) Noise Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.3) Post construction Monitoring Plan (Section 9.3.2.1) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Traffic/Road Management Plan (Section 9.4.7) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)





Non-Aboriginal Land and Resource Use Forest Industry Land and Resource Use Project activities during the construction stage: surveying and flagging; clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and



foundation installation including dewatering activities; concrete mixing, on-site or in batch plants; assembly and erection of transmission structures including staking of









Changes to: Production forest area through clearing of

land for the right of way, and changes in access to forest industry land use.

caribou disturbance footprint, which may require changes to commitments in approved forest management plans with respect to area and spatial distribution of forest management activities, thereby affecting availability of resources.

Section 7.4 Archaeology Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.18) Cultural Heritage Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.19) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1) Noise Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.3) Post-construction Monitoring Plan (Section 9.3.2.1) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Traffic/Road Management Plan (Section 9.4.7) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2).





Non-Aboriginal Land and Resource Use Energy Industry and Linear Infrastructure Land and Resource Use Project activities during the construction stage: surveying and flagging; clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and



foundation installation including dewatering activities; concrete mixing, on-site or in batch plants assembly and erection of transmission structures including staking of









Changes in: Land use quantity.

Section 7.4 Archaeology Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.18) Cultural Heritage Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.19) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17) Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.1) Noise Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.3) Post-construction Monitoring Plan (Section 9.3.2.1) Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

(Section 9.3.1.13) Timber Salvage Plan (Section 9.3.1.5) Traffic/Road Management Plan (Section 9.4.7) Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)





Visual Aesthetics Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, grubbing of vegetation, and stockpiling of materials

along the ROW and other access and construction areas and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps);

assembly and erection of transmission structures including staking of structure and guy anchor locations, and substations

conductor installation, including cable splicing; and reclamation of decommissioned access roads, temporary laydown


Visibility of disturbance to the existing visual quality resulting from the visual effects of vegetation clearing and the addition of built transmission structures

Contrast with the existing visual quality resulting from the visual effects of vegetation clearing and the addition of built transmission structures

Section 7.5

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of transmission line, transmission line

alignment ROW and permanent access roads; and operation and maintenance of substations.

Visibility of disturbance to the existing visual quality resulting from the visual effects of vegetation clearing and the addition of built transmission structures

Contrast with the existing visual quality resulting from the visual effects of vegetation clearing and the addition of built transmission structures

Section 7.5 Dust/Air Quality Management Plan (Section 9.3.1) Clean-up and Reclamation Plan (Section 9.3.1.17)

Human Health Project activities during the construction stage: transportation of personnel, materials and equipment; and; hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling.

Changes to groundwater quality from transportation of personnel, materials and equipment, hazardous materials, solid and liquid handling may affect human health.


(Section 9.3.1.13) Waste Management Plans (Sections 9.3.1.9, 9.3.1.10 and

9.3.1.11) Project activities during the construction stage: Foundation installation including dewatering activities.

Changes to groundwater quality from excavations for foundations and dewatering excavations may affect human health.

Section 7.6

Project activities during the construction stage: Construction of access roads, fencing, substations, and transmission

line alignment ROW.

Changes to groundwater quality may be caused by disturbing shallow soils with potentially pre-existing contamination.

Section 7.6



Changes to groundwater quality from the use of explosives and blasting to create level areas for transmission structures, access roads and for foundation excavations may affect human health.


Project activities during the construction stage: Pumping of wells for supply of water to temporary construction camps.

Changes to groundwater quality associated with operation of construction camp water supply wells may affect human health.

Section 7.6

Project activities during the construction stage: Discharges of wastewater from construction, vehicle and equipment

wash, and domestic activities.

Changes to surface water quality (suspended solids and chemical constituents) during construction from short-term discharges may affect human health.

Section 7.6





Human Health Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps);

surface water management and erosion control; aggregates pits; concrete mixing on-site or in batch plants; operation of vehicles, construction equipment and diesel generators;

and transportation of personnel, materials and equipment.

Changes to surface water quality (suspended solids and chemical constituents) during construction from the transport and delivery of airborne particulate matter to nearby waterbodies may affect human health.

Section 7.6

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment.

Changes to surface water quality (suspended solids and chemical constituents) during construction from the transport and delivery of airborne particulate matter to nearby waterbodies may affect human health.

Section 7.6

Project activities during the construction stage: Hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling.

Changes to surface water quality (suspended solids and chemical constituents) during construction from the wash-off of trash and leachate at waste handling and storage facilities to nearby waterbodies may affect human health.

Section 7.6

Project activities during the construction stage: hazardous materials, solid and liquid waste handling; re-fueling, service and maintenance of vehicles and construction

equipment; operation of vehicles, construction equipment and diesel generators;

and transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment.

Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment.

Changes to surface water quality (chemical constituents) during construction and operation from the wash-off of spills and leaks to nearby waterbodies may affect human health.


(Section 9.3.1.13) Waste Management Plans (Sections 9.3.1.10, 9.3.1.11,

and 9.3.1.12)


structures, roads and for foundation excavations.

Changes to surface water quality (chemical constituents) during construction from the wash-off of explosives spills and residues from blasting activities to nearby waterbodies may affect human health.


Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: Mechanical vegetation maintenance along ROW at an appropriate

height to protect the facility and improve public and worker safety.

Changes to surface water quality (suspended solids and chemical constituents) during operation from the wash-off of organic debris from mechanical vegetation maintenance activities to adjacent waterbodies may affect human health.

Section 7.6





Human Health Project activities during the construction stage: clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and

stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around area, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps) earthworks associated with construction and reclamation;



Changes to surface water quality (land surface erosion-sedimentation processes, suspended solids) during construction from the wash-off of organic debris from work sites to nearby waterbodies, and/or increased rates of erosion in disturbed and exposed areas with sediment transport and delivery to adjacent waterbodies may affect human health.

Section 7.6



Changes to surface water quality (suspended solids and chemical constituents) during short-term water diversions at waterbody crossings during construction may affect human health.

Section 7.6



Changes to surface water quality (suspended solids) during construction and operation due to changes in reach and cross-section hydraulics at waterbody crossings may affect human health.

Section 7.6


stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps);


areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps; and concrete mixing on-site or in batch plants.

CAC and fugitive dust emissions from construction activities can result in changes in ambient concentrations that may affect human health.



stockpiling of materials along the ROW and other access and construction areas, and construction of infrastructure (e.g., access roads, bridges, turn-around areas, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps);


areas, turnaround area, staging areas, and temporary construction camps; and

concrete mixing on-site or in batch plants.

Noise emissions from construction activities could increase existing noise levels at potential PORs and affect human health


Project activities during the operation and maintenance stage: operation and maintenance of transmission line, 40-m-wide

transmission line alignment ROW, fencing, conductors, tower foundations, substations, switching stations and permanent access roads; and

electricity transmission.

Noise emissions from operation and maintenance stage activities could increase existing noise levels at potential PORs and affect human health.






Aboriginal Rights, Treaty Rights and Interests Project activities during the construction stage: surveying and flagging; clearing, grading, earth moving, grubbing of vegetation, and




structure and guy anchor locations; testing and commissioning; construction of access roads, fencing, transformer station, connection

facility, and transmission line alignment ROW; operation of vehicles, construction equipment, and diesel generators; transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; helicopter access for construction activities; surface water management and erosion control; upgrade of existing waterbody crossings, and construction of new


areas, turnaround areas, staging areas, and temporary construction camps; and




height to maintain electrical clearances; transportation of personnel, materials, and equipment; and helicopter access for operation and maintenance activities.

Project components or activities could result in changes in distribution or habitat area of wildlife, fish and plant species, and accordingly the ability of Aboriginal communities exercise their rights to harvest them.

Site preparation, construction, operation and maintenance of the Project Footprint could change access to harvesting areas.

Site preparation, construction, operation and maintenance of the Project footprint could change access to and integrity of spiritual, ceremonial and cultural sites.

Site preparation, construction, operation and maintenance of the Project footprint could change environmental conditions that could affect the quality of the land use experience.

Section 8.0 Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2)

m=metre; GHG = greenhouse gases; ROW = right-of-way;



9.2.3 Environmental and Social Management Framework This ESMP is part of a suite of plans that together provide a management framework for the Project execution. The structure of the management plan framework that identifies the key documents in the management of environmental and social effects is presented on Figure 9.2-1.

Figure 9.2-1: Wataynikaneyap Phase 2 Connecting 17 Remote First Nation Communities Project –

Environmental and Social Management Plan Framework

Cons

truc

tion

Man

agem

ent P

lan

Environmental and Social Management Plan

Social Management Plan

Procurement

Employment and Participation

Employee Accommodation and Offices

Aboriginal and Stakeholder Engagement

Traffic/Road Management Plan

Occupational Health and Safety Plan

Environmental Management Plan

Dust/Air Quality Management Plan

Greenhouse Gas Management Plan

Noise Management Plan

Soil Handling Management Plan

Timber Salvage Plan

Rare Plant Management Plan

Invasive Species Management Plan

Wildlife Management Plan

Material Storage and Handling Plan

Liquid Waste Management Plan

Hazardous Waste Management Plan

Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan

Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

Sediment and Erosion Control Plan

Blasting Management Plan

Clean-up and Reclamation Plan

Archaeology Management Plan

Cultural Heritage Management Plan

Post-Construction Monitoring Plan

Vegetation Management Plan

Quality Management Plan

Maintenance Management Plan



9.2.4 Roles and Responsibilities Figure 9.2-2 outlines the potential organization, titles, and interaction of the Project Team’s key personnel that include the Wataynikaneyap Project Manager, the Construction Manager, the Environmental Manager, the Environmental Monitors, the Safety Manager, the Site Supervisor, and the Contractors/Subcontractors. Their anticipated roles and responsibilities are described, but not limited to, as below:

Wataynikaneyap Project Manager

Oversees all aspects (from planning to execution) of the Project.

Works with the Construction Manager, the Environmental Manager and the Site Supervisor to confirm compliance with construction and environmental aspects of all permits, contract documents, company environmental policies, and commitments made during the planning and application process.

Confirm that all Project personnel receive an appropriate orientation and training to Wataynikaneyap’s and the Project’s requirements.

Confirm that the Contractor is duly informed of the ESMP and associated responsibilities and implications of this ESMP.

Contracts qualified consultants and contractors to work on the Project as appropriate.

Construction Manager

Oversees the Project construction, directs and monitors the progress of construction activities.

Works with the Environmental Manager and the Site Supervisor to confirm compliance with construction and environmental aspects of all permits, contract documents, company environmental policies, and commitments made during the planning and application process.

Responsible for obtaining all necessary permits and licences and, depending upon the contractual arrangements, direct or monitor compliance with building and safety codes and other regulations.

Prepares daily reports of progress and requirements for labor, material, machinery, and equipment at the construction site.

Environmental Manager

Coordinates preparation of regulatory applications to support the Project.

Represents Wataynikaneyap at meetings with external groups, including regulators, Aboriginal communities and other stakeholders.

Works with the Project team to coordinate activities, identify and resolve concerns and issues.

Liaises with the Construction Manager and the Site Supervisor and coordinates environmental inspection, reporting and training during construction of the approved Project.

Is aware of and works in accordance with health and safety requirements.

Provides advice on major decisions such as wet weather shut-downs or courses of action to deal with unexpected environmental conditions or events.



Tracks all environmental incidents and non-compliances that occur on the Project (irrespective of whether they meet a regulatory reporting threshold).

Prepares, collects, organizes, and confirms correct dissemination of environment-related information and documentation that arises during construction.

Environmental Monitors

Report directly to the Environmental Managers and works with Contractors and Sub-contractors to implement mitigation measures.

Conducts environmental audits and site inspections of construction activities to evaluate compliance with project environmental requirements, regulatory approvals, the ESMP, the Contractors environmental management plans, and other environmental commitments.

Reviews Contractor environmental management plans with the Environmental Manager.

Reviews environmental monitoring reports prepared by the Contractor.

Safety Managers

Report directly to the Construction Manager.

Conducts safety audits of construction activities to evaluate compliance with Wataynikaneyap’s Health and Safety Plan, the Contractor’s Occupational Health and Safety Plan, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and any other provincial safety requirements.

Implement the occupational health and safety training program.

Site Supervisor

Reports directly to the Construction Manager, and works with the Environmental Manager, to support the attainment of Project environmental goals by serving as the primary interface between Wataynikaneyap and the Contractor at the construction site.

The Site Supervisor will be onsite during vegetation clearing and ground disturbance activities and any other times at the discretion of the Environmental Manager.

Proactively works to confirm the Contractor’s day-to-day construction activities are being conducted within the scope of environmental regulatory requirements, commitments, procedures, and specifications.

Prepares and delivers environmental orientation presentations to the Wataynikaneyap staff, and regulatory, inspection, and contract staff, as directed by the Environmental Manager.

Monitors construction methods, and advises of any changes needed to effectively protect the environment.

Is aware of and works in accordance with health and safety requirements on the construction site.

Liaises with inspection staff, Environmental Manager and the Construction Manager on issues that require resolution.

Liaises with appropriate government agencies in cooperation with the Environmental Manager and Construction Manager.



Provides advice on major decisions such as wet weather shut-downs or courses of action to deal with unexpected environmental conditions or events.

Tracks all environmental incidents and non-compliances that occur on the Project (irrespective of whether they meet a regulatory reporting threshold).

Supervises any environmental specialists that supply specific expertise in the field, such as soils, archaeology and built culture resources, fish, amphibians, rare plants, reclamation, and wildlife expertise.

Prepares, collects, organizes and confirms correct dissemination of environmental and social information and documentation that arises during construction.

Contractors and Subcontractors

Confirm that all personnel are duly informed of the requirements contained in this ESMP, and the associated responsibilities and implications of this ESMP.

Confirm that all records needed to demonstrate compliance with the ESMP requirements are obtained, filed and readily available for inspection by the Project Manager.

Confirm that all personnel demonstrate respect and care for the environment in which they are operating.

Act as a point of contact for local residents and community members.

Be responsible for restoration of, or the cost of restoration of any environmental damage that may arise from non-compliance with this ESMP and/or environmental regulations. Such restoration shall be to the satisfaction of the relevant authorities and/or the Project Manager.



Figure 9.2-2: Wataynikaneyap Phase 2 Connecting 17 Remote First Nation Communities Project – Construction Organizational Chart

Wataynikaneyap Project Manager

Construction Manager

Environmental Managers

Environmental Monitors

Site Supervisors

Contractors

Subcontractors

Safety Managers



9.3 Environmental Management Plan 9.3.1 Construction Stage General Mitigation Measures

Limit the Project footprint to the extent feasible such as use of existing access roads and routing the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW in proximity to existing and planned linear disturbances as much as possible.

Limit the duration of disturbance from construction as practical.

Use existing access roads as much as possible to limit disturbance resulting from construction of new access roads.

Prior to construction, Wataynikaneyap will identify shallow domestic groundwater wells within 120 m of the selected corridor excavation. If domestic groundwater wells are identified, Wataynikaneyap will provide the option to groundwater well owners to participate in a well monitoring program to determine pre-construction groundwater quality and quantity. As well, prior to construction, Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will engage owners/managers of the contaminant monitoring/observation wells identified within the 120m radius of influence of dewatering activities (Section 5.2 Groundwater, Table 5.2-5) for Wataynikaneyap to undertake a well monitoring program confirming groundwater quality. Wataynikaneyap will review groundwater sampling results at these wells prior to dewatering near these potential contamination sources. If groundwater contamination at these locations are confirmed, then the water will be disposed of appropriately.

Prior to construction, Wataynikaneyap will identify shallow domestic groundwater wells and any contaminant monitoring wells within 120 m of the selected corridor excavation. If domestic groundwater wells are identified, Wataynikaneyap will provide the option to groundwater well owners to participate in a well monitoring program to determine pre-construction groundwater quality and quantity. If contaminant monitoring wells are identified, Wataynikaneyap will review groundwater sampling results at these wells prior to dewatering near these potential contamination sources. If groundwater contamination at these locations are confirmed, then the water will be disposed of appropriately.

Construction will be planned and undertaken with consideration for the recommended construction timing windows, summarized in Table 9.3-1 below.

Table 9.3-1: Recommended Construction Timing Windows and Restrictions

Natural Feature, Habitat, or Species Recommended Construction Timing Windows and Restrictions

Waterbodies April 1 to July 15 (spring spawning)(a), September 1 to June 20 (fall and spring spawning)(a), September 1 to June 30 (fall and spring spawning)(a), September 1 to July 15 (fall and spring extended spawning)(a), and September 15 to July 15 (fall and spring extended spawning)(a)

Caribou – nursery areas Within a caribou range, avoid sensory disturbances (i.e., vegetation clearing and blasting) within 10 km of known high-use areas during sensitive periods: May 1 to July 14 very low tolerance July 14 to September 15 low tolerance





Caribou – winter use areas Within a caribou range, avoid sensory disturbances (i.e., vegetation clearing and blasting) within 10 km of known high-use areas during sensitive periods: December 1 to March 31

Caribou – travel corridors Within a caribou range, avoid sensory disturbances (i.e., vegetation clearing and blasting) within 10 km of known high-use areas during sensitive periods: April and November

Migratory birds protected under the Migratory Bird Convention Act and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act

April 15 to August 31(b,c)

Eastern whip-poor-will – breeding territories (if identified)

May 1 to August 1 – no clearing or construction activities causing sensory disturbance within 500 m of an eastern whip-poor-will breeding territory(e). Should this timing not be able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested. ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands

Great blue heron colonies (if identified)

Year-round – no clearing or roads within 300 m of the outer periphery of a great blue heron nesting colony. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested(d).

Bald eagle – nests Year-round – no clearing or roads within 400 m of a bald eagle nest. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested(d).

Osprey –nests (if identified) Year-round – no clearing or roads within 300 m of an osprey nest. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested(d).

Golden eagle – nests (if identified) Year-round – no clearing or roads within 400 m of a golden eagle nest. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested(d).





Bats – maternity roost habitat May 15 to August 31 - avoid clearing moderate and high potential maternity roost habitat.

Should this timing not be able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested. ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands. If mitigation cannot achieve avoidance of adverse effects, an ESA authorization will be required.

Bats – hibernacula habitat (if identified)

September 1 to May 30 – complete construction activities causing sensory disturbance outside the hibernation period and do not complete construction activities causing sensory disturbance in contiguous treed habitat within 200 m of potential hibernacula or the distance to the nearest existing road or Right-of-Way.

Should this timing not be able to be maintained or where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested. ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands. If mitigation cannot achieve avoidance of adverse effects, an ESA authorization will be required.

Wolverine – dens (if identified) January 1 to March 30 – avoid activities within 4 km of wolverine dens. If a wolverine den is identified during construction or operations, and should this

timing not be able to be maintained within the buffer widths identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted to develop a den management plan and appropriate First Nation communities will be notified, where requested(d) ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands. If the den management plan cannot achieve avoidance of adverse effects, an ESA authorization will be required.

Mink, river otter, American marten and fisher dens (if identified)

Year-round – no development within 20 m of an identified den, unless it can be demonstrated that there will not be negative effects on the den.

Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested(d).

a) One of the four listed restricted activity timing windows is applicable for each waterbody crossing. For each waterbody crossing, a restricted activity timing window was determined using the restricted activity timing windows for each fish species and the potential for each waterbody to provide spawning habitat for each fish species (Section 6.2.7.1). The restricted activity timing window for each waterbody is shown in Appendix 6.2A (Tables 6.2A-1B, 6.2A-2B, and 6.2A-3B) and in Appendix 6.2B (Tables 6.2B-1B, 6.2B-2B, and 6.2B-3B). In-water works (e.g., installing/improving culverts) within the restricted activity timing window may not be completed, unless approval from MNRF and DFO is obtained except where this clearing is minimal (6 m-wide or less) and executed in order to provide minor access to water-edge. Specific exceptions to these recommendations will be proposed by the proponent where construction feasibility requires it and additional waterbody crossing characterization will be undertaken in these cases. b) If vegetation removal cannot be avoided during nesting period, pre-construction nest searches will be completed. c) The date range is taken from all species protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act (Government of Canada 1994) and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act (Government of Ontario 1997) and personal communication from the MNRF (Tarrant 2018). d) Wataynikaneyap understands that the MNRF will apply guidelines similar to those outlined in the Forest Management Guide for Conserving Biodiversity at the Stand and Site Scales (MNR 2010b) where buffer widths cannot be maintained as identified. e) If vegetation removal cannot be avoided during nesting period, pre-construction triangulation surveys (MNR 2013) will be completed m = metre; km = kilometre.

Water Taking

All short-term water takings from surface water or surface water and groundwater sources for construction or water supply purposes will be carried out in accordance with O. Reg. 387/04 as amended by O. Reg. 64/16



(pertaining to permits, data and reporting, and water transfers) under the Ontario Water Resources Act and industry best standards, recognizing that designated water taking activities will require registration on the EASR or a PTTW from the MOECC.

Potable water for work sites, temporary construction camps, and temporary laydown areas will be obtained from local suppliers via water tank trucks or via surface water and/or ground water sources with appropriate treatment as needed.

Water taking for construction dewatering purposes between 50,000 L/d and 400,000 L/d will be registered on the EASR.

Engagement with nearby water well owners that could be affected during pumping. If issues arise, determine the source of the issue and, if Project-related, take appropriate action.

Well water will be tested before being used at temporary construction camp. If groundwater contamination is identified during construction, then an investigation will be completed and the water will be managed and disposed of as per appropriated regulations.

All water supply wells at the temporary construction camps will be installed and decommissioned by a licensed water well driller in accordance with O. Reg. 903.

No new groundwater monitoring wells are currently planned; should these be required, they will be installed and decommissioned by a licensed water well driller in accordance with Ontario Regulation 903.

Waterbody Crossings

The Project will incorporate mitigation measures during construction to minimize potential effect on waterbodies due to Project activities. These mitigation measures may include the following:

Use existing waterbody crossing structures where possible. Minimize the number of waterbody crossings required for the Project.

Design waterbody crossings in compliance with O. Reg. 180/06 as amended by O. Reg. 63/13 and O. Reg. 454/96, as applicable.

All necessary permits and approvals will be acquired prior to water crossing construction, with adherence to all terms and conditions. DFO’s self-assessment and request for review process will be followed in the permitting stage of the Project, along with MNRF regulatory requirements.

Where new equipment waterbody crossing structures are proposed, the primary preferred structures to be used are clear-span bridges, ice bridges/snow fills (for winter construction), and/or rig mats. Contingency equipment waterbody crossing structures include clear-span bridges, rig mats, ice bridge/snow fills, and culverts.

Install, maintain, remove, decommission, and rehabilitate temporary waterbody crossing structures (e.g., clear-span bridges, ice bridges/snow fills, rig mats), using best management practices and following environmental approval conditions, including MNRF’s Environmental Guidelines for Access Roads and Water

Crossings (1990), and Forest Management Guide for Conserving Biodiversity at the Stand and Site Scales (2010a) and its associated Background Rationale document (20116b) and DFO’s Measures to Avoid Causing

Harm to Fish and Fish Habitat Including Aquatic Species at Risk (DFO 2016a).



Install the primary preferred structures (i.e., clear-span bridges, ice bridges/snow fills, and/or rig mats) to avoid construction activities with permanent in-water works (i.e., temporary and permanent clear-span bridges and rig mats will be installed above the high-water mark and ice bridges/snow fills will be temporary). Install culverts as a contingency if it is not feasible or suitable to install the primary preferred structures.

Fording of a waterbody is not permitted for construction clearing, unless approved by the appropriate First Nation communities and regulatory agencies. If fording is approved, it will be limited to a one-time event (over and back) and will occur only if an existing crossing at another location is not available or practical to use. If repeated crossings of the waterbody are required, a temporary crossing structure will be installed.

If culverts are used, install, maintain, remove, decommission, and rehabilitate as per temporary waterbody crossing structures. If installed, culverts will be designed for the waterbody. Culvert design will consider suitable flows for fish passage, will minimize the potential for scour and erosion and should consider proper dimensions to minimize the potential for any blockages from ice, woody debris.

Regularly inspect and maintain culverts to prevent blockages from forming and causing ponding or backwater effects. Where culverts are installed at fish-bearing waterbodies, debris removal activities will follow DFO’s guidance (i.e., gradual removal such that flooding downstream, extreme flows downstream, release of suspended sediment, and fish stranding can be avoided).

Install, monitor, and manage appropriate erosion and sedimentation control measures to minimize or avoid sediment mobilization from the disturbed area to drainages, or waterbodies. Adequate and appropriate erosion and sedimentation control materials shall be on site and available prior to commencement of construction.

Maintain buffer zones of 30 m will around waterbodies, and limit clearing of riparian vegetation to the extent practical and to the requirement of the access road and alignment clearing width only. Clearing at waterbody crossings along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW will generally be limited to a 6-m-wide ROW for equipment access to waterbody crossing structures (e.g., temporary bridges).

Where the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW is parallel to the access road, install only one equipment waterbody crossing structure.

Environmental Monitors will be on site during construction to monitor the installation, use, and removal of temporary equipment waterbody crossing structures.

Environmental Monitors will be on-site during construction to confirm that all waterbodies crossed by the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and access roads have been identified and documented in the waterbody crossing lists (Appendix 6.2A: Tables 6.2A-1A and B, 6.2A-2A and B, and 6.2A-3A and B) and will monitor the installation, use, and removal of temporary equipment waterbody crossing structures. The Environmental Monitors will confirm that the appropriate waterbody crossing structure is being used, that the proper restricted activity timing window is being applied and that all approvals and permits are in place. If unidentified waterbodies are encountered, engage an Aquatics Specialist to determine the appropriate crossing methods, proposed restricted activity timing window, and approvals or permits required.

Avoid construction during a fish and fish habitat restricted activity timing window. Proposed restricted activity timing windows were assigned in the ESR to avoid work during sensitive life history periods or life stages for all fish that may be present in each waterbody, including movements to spawning areas, spawning and



egg incubation, or eggs and newly-hatched fry. The restricted activity timing windows for each waterbody crossing will be finalized by MNRF during permitting. Work may not be conducted during the proposed restricted activity timing window, or within a setback unless approval is obtained from the appropriate local First Nation communities and regulatory agencies (i.e., MNRF and DFO), where required.

For the waterbody crossing structures, the restricted activity timing windows are applicable if any work is completed below the high-water mark. The restricted activity timing windows are not applicable if all work is completed above the high-water mark, if the waterbody is frozen and an ice bridge/snow fill is constructed, or when using the waterbody crossing structures.

Postpone in-stream construction if excessive flows or flood conditions are present or anticipated that occur outside of already identified in-water works timing restrictions. Resume activities when water levels have subsided or equipment/techniques suitable for conditions are deployed.

Complete instream construction in isolation of flowing water (i.e., use isolation methods for the installation and removal of culverts where surface water exists at the time of construction). For isolations/diversions, maintain 100% downstream flow. Pump intakes should not disturb the bed. Appropriately screen water intakes or pumps to prevent entrainment or impingement of fish (DFO 1995, 2016a); follow measures for design and installation of intake end-of-pipe-fish screens to protect fish (DFO 1995, 2016a).

Where possible, schedule work activities in wet areas during frozen conditions. Under non-frozen conditions and where regulatory approvals allow, install mats (e.g., rig mats, swamp mats or access mats) to limit effects to waterbodies and wetlands, if warranted and surface conditions require. Where use of mats is not possible and construction disturbance would occur outside of frozen condition within a wetland or within 30 m, MNRF will be notified as soon as possible. Work may not be conducted unless approval is obtained from the appropriate regulatory agencies.

Clearing and re-vegetation of the riparian zone will consider DFO’s Measures to Avoid Causing Harm to

Fish and Fish Habitat Including Aquatic Species at Risk (DFO 2016a) and MNRF’s Environmental Guidelines

for Access Roads and Water Crossings (1990), and Forest Management Guide for Conserving Biodiversity

at the Stand and Site Scales (2010a) and its associated Background Rationale document (2010b).

If clearing of vegetation is required below the high-water mark for the installation of equipment waterbody crossings, follow all mitigation measures outlined, plus clear riparian vegetation by hand and fell riparian vegetation away from a waterbody, however, if vegetation falls into a waterbody, it will be left in place.

Temporary waterbody crossing structures will be removed prior to spring freshet unless they are appropriately sized by a qualified engineer.

Surface Water and Wetlands

Buffer zones of 30 m will be maintained around waterbodies where possible, and clearing of riparian vegetation will be limited to the extent practical and to the requirement of the access road and alignment clearing width only. Clearing at waterbody crossings along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW will generally be limited to a 6-m-wide ROW for equipment access to waterbody crossing structures (e.g., temporary bridges).



Removed vegetation will be immediately transported outside a waterbody buffer zone (30 m), and above its high-water mark.

Stripped soil will be stored outside waterbody buffers. Stripped soils will not be placed in surface drainage channels or wetlands.

Minimize burning within 100 m of a waterbody to the extent practical.

Where possible, schedule work activities in wet areas during frozen conditions. Under non-frozen conditions and where regulatory approvals allow, install mats (e.g., rig mats, swamp mats or access mats) to limit effects to waterbodies and wetlands, if warranted and surface conditions require. Where use of mats is not possible and construction disturbance would occur outside of frozen condition within a wetland or within 30 m, MNRF will be notified as soon as possible. Work may not be conducted unless approval is obtained from the appropriate regulatory agencies.

If construction cannot avoid wetlands and setback, MNRF will be notified as soon as possible. Work may not be conducted unless approval is obtained from the appropriate regulatory agencies.

Provincial Parks and Designated Protected Areas

Design construction routes so as to avoid existing access points to provincial parks or the BDE DPA, tourism establishment areas, campsites, boat launches and caches, aquatic access points, and trailheads, as appropriate.

Narrow the ROW and minimize construction activity in the Project footprint in provincial parks or the BDE DPA where possible to avoid natural, cultural and recreational values.

Reduce the new ROW width by installing new towers on edge of existing utility or road ROWs, where feasible, so that cleared ROW areas of transmission lines overlap each other in provincial parks or the BDE DPA.

Avoid temporary laydown areas in provincial parks or the BDE DPA unless necessary along access in the ROW.

Map and/or mark known site-specific features and associated setbacks clearly (e.g., rare vegetation communities) and communicate to Project staff.

Install signs on the ROW indicating boundaries of provincial parks or the BDE DPA and if applicable, indicate alternate access points.

Stage construction activities in provincial parks or the BDE DPA to avoid or minimize potential effects on ecologically sensitive areas, life cycle periods, and peak visitor periods, to the extent practical.

Avoid blasting and the storage of materials and equipment within provincial parks or the BDE DPA, where possible.

Prevent temporary laydown areas or temporary construction camps in provincial parks or the BDE DPA.

Use mechanical techniques for removal of vegetation within provincial parks or the BDE DPA.

Before equipment is moved from non-protected areas lands to begin work in provincial parks or the BDE DPA, equipment will be cleaned in accordance with the Clean Equipment Protocol for Industry (Ontario Parks 2016)



Engage with provincial park and DPA administrators to implement appropriate restriction protocols during construction and maintenance activities around specific natural, cultural and recreational values transected by the Project footprint in Otoskwin-Attawapiskat River Provincial Park, Pipestone River Provincial Park and BDE DPA.

Continue to engage with the MNRF to develop appropriate strategies to facilitate continued use and access to provincial parks or the BDE DPA.

Provide advance notice of construction activities to park and DPA administrators.

Avoid burning merchantable timber in provincial parks or the BDE DPA.

9.3.1.1 Dust/Air Quality Management Plan

Potential project effects to air quality are primarily during construction from emissions from vehicles and equipment and dust. A Dust/Air Quality Management Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start to minimize potential project effects related to dust and air quality. The Dust/Air Quality Management Plan may include the following key mitigation measures:

Operate only properly functioning vehicles and equipment, whereas rented or owned by Wataynikaneyap or their contractor(s).

Regularly service, maintain and inspect vehicles and equipment for leaks.

Keep equipment well-maintained to maximize fuel efficiency.

Use multi-passenger vehicles to transport personnel, where practical.

Apply speed limits at work sites and access roads to limit fugitive dust.

Cover or water down work sites, soil stockpiles and aggregate materials being transported, to minimize fugitive dust.

Reduce idling of vehicles and equipment. Where reasonable and practical, vehicles and equipment will be turned off when not in use, unless weather and/or safety conditions dictate the need for them to remain turned on and maintained in a safe operating condition.

Employ non-hazardous dust control practices (e.g., wetting with water) at concrete batch plants, work sites, haul roads, and on access roads near residential areas, as required.

Minimize dust-generating activities (e.g., topsoil handling), as practical and where required, during periods of high wind to limit dust emissions and spread.

To minimize dust effects, clear areas to be cleared of vegetation only when required and reclaimed them as soon as possible after completion of the construction activity in that area.

Soil stockpiles will be vegetated, where appropriate (e.g., if soils are prone to wind erosion).

Burn slash piles in compliance with O. Reg. 207/96 and the required permits and approvals by appropriate regulatory agencies; and in agreement with Aboriginal communities and landowners.



Minimize the effect of dust on the surrounding environment resulting from concrete mixing on-site or in batch plants for the safety, health and the protection of workers and communities living downwind of dust generating activities.

Operate equipment (e.g., concrete production plant) in compliance with approvals, if required, considering equipment schedule confirmed during detailed design. In the case of diesel generators, requirement for approvals will include confirmation of if equipment meets the exemption requirements listed in Ontario Regulation 524/98.

9.3.1.2 Greenhouse Gas Management Plan

In a provincial, national or global context, the Project-related emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) are predicted to be minor and not contribute measurably to climate change. The GHG Management Plan may include the following mitigation measures:

Operate only properly functioning vehicles and equipment, whereas rented or owned by Wataynikaneyap or their contractor(s).

Regularly service, maintain and inspect vehicles and equipment for leaks.

Keep equipment well-maintained to maximize fuel efficiency.

Reduce idling of vehicles and equipment. Where reasonable and practical, vehicles and equipment will be turned off when not in use, unless weather and/or safety conditions dictate the need for them to remain turned on and in a safe operating condition.

Use multi-passenger vehicles to transport personnel, where practical.

Burn slash piles in compliance with O. Reg. 207/96 and the required permits and approvals by appropriate regulatory agencies; and in agreement with Aboriginal communities and landowners.

9.3.1.3 Noise Management Plan

There will be noise during the construction stage from the use of vehicles and equipment. The transmission line is also expected to produce noise under certain weather conditions (e.g., rain, fog, snow and frost), but this noise is not predicted to be higher than ambient noise conditions beyond the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW.

A Noise Management Plan will be developed prior to start of construction to minimize the potential effects from the Project related to noise and vibration. The Noise Management Plan may include the following key mitigation measures:

Due to noise expected from implosion cable splicing (i.e., impulsive), notify nearby affected communities about the splicing schedule to reduce nuisance effects.

Provide notification (e.g., by mail) in jurisdictions where noise levels are expected to be elevated close to sound level limits for a limited time.

Construction activities will comply with local municipal noise by-laws and the MOECC Model Municipal Noise

Control Bylaw (i.e., NPC-115).

Comply with MOECC NPC-300.



Keep noise abatement equipment on machinery properly maintained and in good working order.

Where reasonable and practical, vehicles and equipment will be turned off when not in use, unless weather and/or safety conditions dictate the need for them to remain turned on in a safe operation condition.

Outside of caribou ranges, design access roads to minimize reversing, which is expected to minimize use of backup beepers where possible.

Notify Aboriginal communities, land users, resource licence holders, recreation and tourism site users and municipalities along the corridor of the planned construction schedule before the start of construction.

Address noise concerns as they arise through a Complaint Resolution Mechanism (Section 9.4.6.2) whereby persons can contact Wataynikaneyap if there are perceived noise issues.

Operate vehicles and equipment such that impulsive noise is minimized, where possible.

Construction blasting is carried out in compliance with the Ontario Provincial Standard Specification 120 (OPSS 120). The OPSS 120 details items such as vibration limits, protective measures, pre-blast surveys and notification to nearby owners and tenants. All blasts, which might affect local structures or disrupt humans, should be monitored for ground and air vibrations. In order to mitigate the effect from airborne debris (flyrock), blasts should be covered with blasting mats. Blasts carried out in compliance with the OPSS 120 are expected to prevent damage to structures and result in negligible, if any, effect on humans.

Operate equipment in compliance with approvals, where required, considering equipment schedule confirmed during detailed design.

9.3.1.4 Soil Handling Management Plan

A Soil Handling Management Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start of construction to minimize potential Project effects related to soil handling. The Soil Handling Management Plan may include the following key mitigation measures:

Use a protective layer such as frost packing, snow, ice or matting or biodegradable geotextile to mitigate compaction rutting, admixing or other detrimental effects to soil or vegetation.

Strip topsoil from areas to be graded or from aggregate pits and store in a location that will not allow for mixing of topsoil with excavated subsoil and graded material. The area stripped is to correspond to the area to be graded.

Strip the topsoil at burn locations to prevent sterilization of the soil; topsoil will be replaced after burning.

Limit topsoil stripping activities to specialized equipment capable of accurately separating variable depths of topsoil from subsoil (e.g., frozen topsoil cutter, if available) where possible. If a frozen topsoil cutter/mulcher is not available, rip frozen topsoil to the same depth as the stripping requirements. Do not over rip and avoid overstripping.

Do not place stripped soils in surface drainage channels, waterbody buffers or wetlands.

Overstrip shallow topsoils to a depth of 15 centimeter (cm), if there is little or no topsoil.

Do not mix topsoil and subsoil disturbed during grading or for aggregate pits with foreign material (e.g., stumps and brush).



Stabilize disturbed areas (e.g., cover exposed areas with mulch, erosion control blankets or tarps to keep the soil in place and prevent erosion). Such areas will be covered with mulch to prevent erosion.

If topsoil stockpiles need to be in place for longer periods (i.e., two weeks to a month), stabilize topsoil stockpiles as soon as practical by seeding, spreading mulch, or installing erosion control blankets.

Limit grading on erosion prone or steep slopes to the extent practical.

Reduce grading near waterbodies. Limit the width of grading to reduce the potential for erosion and subsoil compaction.

Conduct grading away from waterbodies to reduce the risk of sediment and other material entering the waterbody.

Limit disturbance to natural drainages during grading; avoid blocking drainages with graded material; install culverts if necessary.

Do not place windrowed or graded material in waterbodies during grading.

Do not store graded material in low areas.

Avoid locating burn piles in peat rich areas where residual fires could persist after construction.

Leave gaps in the windrows, at drainage courses, access roads and wildlife trails.

Use equipment capable of fine depth adjustments when salvaging topsoil, if soils in the Project site have uneven boundaries between topsoil and subsoil. Where topsoil depth is not distinguishable by colour, Wataynikaneyap will provide direction for topsoil salvaging based on soil texture and structure.

If conventional methods (i.e., dozers and graders) are ineffective use a backhoe to strip stony topsoils.

Strip topsoil in unsaturated wetlands, giving extra attention to maintain root stocks for replacement. Keep wetland soils separate from upland soils.

Replace topsoil as evenly as possible throughout stripped areas and smooth subsoil before replacing topsoil.

In the event that contaminated soil or groundwater is encountered during construction, an investigation will be completed and the soil or groundwater will be disposed and managed according to applicable rules and regulations.

Wet Conditions If construction during wet conditions is necessary, the following mitigation measures would be implemented:

Where possible, schedule construction activities in wet areas during frozen conditions.

Restrict construction activity to the narrowest possible area.

Use a protective layer such as such as frost packing, snow, ice or matting or biodegradable geotextile and clay ramps between wetland root/seed bed and construction equipment.

Limit traffic to equipment with wide tracks or low ground pressure tires, where required.

Pump standing water to a vegetated area.

Backblade ruts to disperse water and allow faster drying.



De-compact subsoils, temporary access roads and soils damaged during wet weather.

If soils are excessively wet, construction alternatives or suspending construction will be considered. Saturated soils are indicated by extensive wheel slip, build-up of mud on tires and cleats, ruts through topsoil into subsoil and tracking of mud down roads.

Wind Erosion The following mitigation measures may be implemented to prevent wind erosion:

Suspend topsoil handling during high wind conditions, where practical and as required.

Postpone replacing topsoil during wet weather or high winds to prevent damaging soil structure and erosion of topsoil, where possible.

To minimize drifting soils and loss of topsoil in areas prone to wind erosion:

spread wood chips or straw crimping (weed-free straw);

sow a fast-growing ground cover; and

walk down tree and shrub debris over exposed soils (rollback).

9.3.1.5 Timber Salvage Plan

A Timber Salvage Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start of construction to minimize the potential Project effects related on merchantable timber. The Timber Salvage Plan may include the following key mitigation measures:

Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will work with Aboriginal communities, sustainable forest licence holders (as appropriate) and applicable regulatory agencies regarding required approvals to remove and manage wood cleared by the Project. Where appropriate, wood removed from the Project footprint will be piled along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW or a nearby road for use by local Aboriginal communities, or mulched onsite.

Within the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW, implement selective mechanical clearing by retaining and retention of shrub vegetation, trees, wildlife trees, and coarse woody debris in selective, environmentally sensitive areas to provide line of sight breaks. This selective clearing will be done, where practicable and where areas where safe and reliable operation practices can still be achieved. Where possible, schedule work activities in wet areas during frozen conditions. This selective clearing will be done to maintain compliance with NERC Vegetation Management Requirements (clearance between the energized power line and vegetation) as well. This effort overlaps the mitigation measure of avoidance of herbicide use, which will likely result in rapid and extensive regrowth in areas with high productive soils (e.g., deciduous stands).

Manage vegetation according to clearance-to-ground levels to allow for increased vegetation height (i.e., over watercourses and within ravines).

Use clearing equipment that minimizes surface disturbance, soil compaction and topsoil loss (e.g., equipment with low ground pressure tracks or tires, blade shores and brush), to the extent practical.

Selectively cut vegetation and restrict grubbing within areas with steep slopes or soils with risk of erosion.



Chip small trees and branches on‑site. Chips may be spread over the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW. Timber, chips and other organic debris will be stored outside the 30 m buffer zone and above the high-water mark of any nearby waterbody.

Slash pile burning will be subject to agreements with landowners and Aboriginal communities, and to permits and approvals by appropriate regulatory agencies.

Operations will be carried out in accordance with requirements set out in the Forest Fire Prevention Act, Outdoor Fires regulation, and Industrial Operations Protocol. This will include Wataynikaneyap and/or its contractors working with the MNRF to develop a Forest Fire Prevention and Preparedness Plan.

Retain snags (i.e., standing or partially fallen dead trees) to provide wildlife habitat, where practical.

Remove diseased or damaged trees located at the edge of the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW that may fall onto the overhead line conductors or structures.

Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will prepare and implement a Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2).

9.3.1.6 Rare Plant Management Plan

A Rare Plant Management Plan will be reviewed and approved by Wataynikaneyap for the Project prior to start of construction and will include the key mitigation measures described below for minimizing potential Project effects on rare plants and rare vegetation communities.

Clearly mark known site-specific features (e.g., rare vegetation community, wildlife trees, wild rice harvest areas, and Critical Landform/Vegetation Association (CLVA)).

Restore surface drainage patterns in the vicinity of the occurrence to pre-construction conditions as much as practical.

For instances where a known rare plant is to be impacted during construction of the Project a site-specific mitigation plan will be developed for each rare plant location and may include plant relocation.

Monitor the success of rare plant relocation measures, if required.

In the event that a previously unidentified rare plant species or rare vegetation community is identified or encountered unexpectedly, or cannot be avoided, within the Project site:

a resource specialist1 is to identify the rare plant species, identify the extent of disturbance to the vegetation feature and determine a suitable course of action in engagement with Wataynikaneyap, appropriate regulatory agencies, and affected Aboriginal communities; work at that location may not resume until appropriate mitigation measures are implemented that are agreed upon with applicable regulatory agencies and affected Aboriginal communities;

the specialist will document the location, photograph the feature, and report the incidence to the appropriate regulatory agencies, as needed; and

1 Experienced rare plant specialist.



The specialist may be requested by Wataynikaneyap to remain on the site until additional soil disturbance in the remainder of that area is completed, in order to monitor whether additional incidences are possible. Mitigation measures (avoiding or moving the specimen) can be implemented proactively if complete avoidance is not possible.



9.3.1.7 Invasive Species Management Plan

An Invasive Species Management Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start of construction that describes the appropriate management of construction materials and equipment to minimize the potential Project effects related to weeds. The Invasive Species Management Plan may include the following key mitigation measures for prevention, removal and monitoring the potential establishment and spread of invasive species:

Clean and inspect vehicles and equipment prior to Project site work. Guidance in the Clean Equipment Protocol for Industry (Halloran et.al 2013) will be considered, especially within provincial parks and dedicated protected areas.

Re-clean vehicles and equipment if an area of weed infestation is encountered on the Project site (i.e., Project footprint), prior to advancing to a weed free area.

Monitor and manage weeds on topsoil stockpiles.

Follow proper soil handling techniques and weed control measures to prevent the introduction of competitive or invasive species.

In disturbed erosion prone areas, use certified seed mix, including native seed mix where available, applicable, and preferred, as required for site revegetation. Where certified seed mix is used, provide the analysis certificate to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). Where seed mix is required within provincial parks and dedicated protected areas, use Ontario Parks approved seed mix.

Monitor in areas where rehabilitation was required during the year following construction to identify introduced invasive species and prioritize areas for removal.

Monitor in areas where removal of introduced invasive species was required the previous year to confirm effective removal in conjunction with annual maintenance inspections.

9.3.1.8 Wildlife Management Plan

A Wildlife Management Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start of construction to minimize and avoid potential Project effects on wildlife. The Wildlife Management Plan may include the following key mitigation measures:

Selective mechanical clearing during the initial ROW clearing for construction by retaining shrub vegetation, trees, wildlife trees, and coarse woody debris in selective, environmentally sensitive areas. This selective clearing will be done, where practicable and where safe and reliable construction and operation practices can still be achieved. This selective clearing will be done to maintain compliance with NERC Vegetation Management Requirements (clearance between the energized power line and vegetation) as well. This effort overlaps the mitigation measure of avoidance of herbicide use, which will likely result in rapid and extensive regrowth in areas with high productive soils (e.g., deciduous stands).

Minimize changes to caribou survival and reproduction by implementing the following mitigation measures in winter use and nursery areas:

using selective clearing during initial right-of-way clearing and subsequent maintenance, where practical, to provide line of sight breaks. In areas with low productive soils, some line segments may require no or little vegetation removal during construction and maintenance, except for the narrow access road;



planning annual maintenance aerial patrols and where necessary, annual maintenance ground patrol activities during early winter to minimize snow compaction that can improve predator mobility;

aligning construction and future operation and maintenance access along the ROW to reduce the footprint;

after initial ROW clearing for construction and where construction access roads are created along the ROW, maintain the curved access road for operation and maintenance to reduce line of sight; and

reclaiming temporary access roads.

Clearly mark and map known site-specific features (e.g., rare vegetation community, wildlife trees, wild rice harvest areas, and CLVA).

Manage attractants (e.g., bear-proof containers, garbage removed frequently) to limit interactions between people and wildlife.

Provide environmental awareness and sensitivity training to staff and contractors to reinforce the importance of not feeding wildlife and carrying out proper waste management practices.

Drivers have standard safety training and are provided with environmental awareness and sensitivity training.

Employees in vehicles encountering large mammals (e.g., caribou, moose, black bear, and wolf) on roads are required to communicate the presence of wildlife on and near roads to other employees working in the area.

If a large mammal is encountered during the activity/project, the activity must cease and provide the animal a reasonable amount of time to leave the area before continuing with the activity.

Recreational use of off-road vehicles by employees and contractors is prohibited.

Monitor and report wildlife-vehicle collisions to provide feedback for adaptive management.

Implement a policy that prohibits feeding wildlife to avoid and minimize habituation.

Post signs warning drivers of high use wildlife areas.

Enforce speed limits on access roads.

Wildlife always have the right-of-way to traffic in a manner that does not pose a risk to driver safety.

Monitor waste management practices for improvement through adaptive management, when necessary.

Check the blast zone for large wildlife species before a blast as described in the Blasting Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.15).

Reclaim temporary access roads, which includes the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW.


Use mechanical or manual methods of vegetation removal during construction and operation and maintenance.



Wataynikaneyap will develop a policy for non-Aboriginal Project workers while on-shift or at camp in regards to any hunting, fishing or trapping activities.

Minimize disturbance to and access restrictions on trapping and hunting areas, where possible during the construction stage and during the infrequent periods for operation and maintenance activities for safety reasons.

Workers and subcontractors will be provided materials on how to identify active mammal den sites and raptor nests.

Construction will be planned and undertaken with consideration for the recommended construction timing windows and restrictions, summarized in Table 9.3-1 and replicated below for bird species, caribou (Boreal population), bats, wolverine and other small furbearing species (mink, river otter, American marten and fisher).

Retain an Environmental Monitor to monitor the development footprint during construction to identify sensitive features (e.g., bat hibernacula) that have not previously been identified on or near the anticipated footprint in advance of clearing. If a sensitive feature is suspected, appropriate regulatory agencies will be contacted (refer to additional mitigations below).

Additional mitigation details may be developed as part of permitting under the Endangered Species Act 2007.

Birds

Manage, to the extent possible, the incremental removal of vegetation so that removal occurs outside of the migratory bird nesting period of April 15 to August 31 of each year to avoid disturbing active migratory bird nests (ECCC 2017a; MNR 2010, Tarrant 2018).

If vegetation removal during construction and operation and maintenance activities cannot be avoided during the migratory bird nesting period (April 15 to August 31), pre-clearing nest searches will be completed.

Pre-clearing nest searches would include completing point count surveys for songbirds (ECCC 2017b) or eastern whip-poor-will triangulation surveys (MNR 2013). If singing songbirds, calling eastern whip-poor-will, or other migratory birds appear to be nesting in or adjacent to the areas to be cleared, the MNRF and ECCC will be contacted to discuss appropriate mitigation and appropriate First Nation communities will be contacted, as requested.

No clearing or construction activities causing sensory disturbance within 500 m of an eastern whip-poor-will breeding territory between May 1 to August 1. Should this timing not be able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested. ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands.

No clearing or roads within 300 m of the outer periphery of a great blue heron nesting colony (if identified) year-round. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested.

No clearing or roads within 300 m of an osprey nest (if identified) year-round. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested.



No clearing or roads within 400 m of a golden eagle nest (if identified) year-round. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested.

Install bird deterrents or visibility enhancements (e.g., Bird-Flight/Swan-Flight diverters) on the transmission line in areas of concern (e.g., near waterbodies known to represent staging areas). Bird deterrent will be placed where the transmission line is in areas with no vegetation cover outside of the ROW and within one kilometre of large waterbodies.

Bats

Avoid clearing moderate and high potential maternity roost habitat (if identified) during the timing window provided in Table 9.3-1 above (May 15 and August 31). Should this timing not be able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested. ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands. If mitigation cannot achieve avoidance of adverse effects, an ESA authorization will be required.

Avoid activities causing sensory disturbance during the bat hibernation period provided in Table 9.3-1 above (September 1 to May 30), between potential hibernacula and a boundary being the lesser of:

a 200-m radius of contiguously-treed area; or

the distance to the nearest existing road or ROW. Should this timing not be able to be maintained or where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested. ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands. If mitigation cannot achieve avoidance of adverse effects, an ESA authorization will be required.

Clearing activities will be halted if bats are seen flying out of trees that are being felled during Project construction and the MNRF will be contacted to implement suitable mitigation.

Caribou

Within a caribou range, avoid sensory disturbances within 10 km of known high-use areas during sensitive periods provided in Table 9.3-1 above, specifically:

Nursery areas: May 1-July 14 (very low tolerance); July 15 – September 15 (low tolerance);

Winter use areas: December 1 to March 31; and

Travel corridors: April and November.

Reclaim temporary disturbance (e.g. temporary access roads, temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps).

In caribou range, planting of jack pine and spruce will follow guidelines in the Best Management Practices for Renewable Energy, Energy Infrastructure and Energy Transmission Activities and Woodland Caribou in Ontario (MNRF 2014). That is jack pine or spruce will be planted at a minimum density of 1,000 stems per hectare or jack pine will be seeded at 20,000 viable seeds per hectare (MNRF 2014). Conifer planting will occur on areas of temporary disturbance (e.g., temporary access roads, laydown areas, construction camps,



and workspaces) where such forest types are naturally expected and/or where habitat enhancement is identified. Wataynikaneyap will confirm reclamation plans through engagement with Aboriginal communities, the MNRF, the ECCC (where relevant to First Nation reserve lands), and SFL holders (where applicable). Effectiveness of reclamation efforts will be monitored and managed post-construction, including confirmation that vegetation communities that naturally regenerate (or were planted) are similar to adjacent vegetation communities. If required, adaptive management will be employed to modify or enhance any reclamation efforts.

Wolverine Avoid Activities within 4 km of wolverine dens (if identified) during the denning period provided in Table 9.3-1 above (January 1 to March 30). If a wolverine den is identified during construction or operations, and should this timing not be able to be maintained within the buffer widths identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted to develop a den management plan and appropriate First Nation communities will be notified, where requested. ECCC will also be engaged, where relevant to First Nation reserve lands. If the den management plan cannot achieve avoidance of adverse effects, an ESA authorization will be required.

Mink, River Otter, American Marten and Fisher No development within 20 m of an identified mink, river otter, American marten and fisher den (if identified), unless it can be demonstrated that there will not be negative effects on the den year-round. Where buffer widths are not able to be maintained as identified, local MNRF offices will be contacted for further discussion and appropriate First Nation communities notified, where requested.

9.3.1.9 Material Storage and Handling Plan

A Material Storage and Handling Plan will be developed to prevent Project effects from activities related to material storage, fueling, maintenance and repairs.

Storage and Temporary Laydown Areas Mitigation measures related to storage and temporary laydown areas may include:

Where possible, transport materials by truck to temporary laydown areas or to structure locations on the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment. Wataynikaneyap and their contractors may choose to transport materials by helicopter to structure locations not accessible by ground vehicle.

Identify existing sites with appropriate land use designations that can accommodate the Project requirements as priority locations for the storage areas. All appropriate permits and authorizations would be acquired prior to use.

Stablish temporary laydown areas within the 2-km-wide transmission corridor, to receive and temporarily store materials and equipment during construction. Figures in Appendix 3.4A show the preliminary locations of the temporary laydown areas. Final locations will be determined by Wataynikaneyap with their contractors during detailed design.

Use existing disturbed areas as temporary laydown areas to the extent practical. Materials stored at the temporary laydown areas will typically include poles, steel cross arms, anchoring and guy wire material,



structure materials, conductor and groundwire reels, insulators and conductor fittings, and miscellaneous hardware.

Clear, grub and level temporary laydown areas if required. Clear vegetation using mechanical harvesters to remove the merchantable timber and bulldozers to remove the remaining woody vegetation. The temporary laydown areas may be equipped with perimeter lighting and fencing for safety and security.

Contact any directly affected landowners or government agencies and acquire all necessary permits and authorizations prior to establishment of temporary laydown areas. Select temporary laydown areas to meet similar constraints identified for the temporary construction camps identified above to avoid or limit potential environmental effects.

Store and handle fuel and hazardous materials appropriately (i.e., aboveground storage tanks for fuel in temporary construction camps and laydown areas) and in designated areas with appropriate secondary containment.

Fuelling Areas During construction, fuel and hazardous materials will be transported in approved containers in licensed vehicles such as tanker trucks, in drums, or other approved containers.

Fuelling areas will be established at temporary laydown areas and/or temporary construction camps, with self-dyked steel above-ground storage tanks (AST). Re-fueling, service and maintenance of vehicles and equipment will generally be carried out in designated areas at temporary construction camps and temporary laydown areas a minimum of 30 m from waterbodies.

The largest on-site fuel storage tank is anticipated to hold no more than 5,000 litres (L). A fuelling truck may also be used for refuelling vehicles and equipment and filling fuel tanks in temporary construction camps. All ASTs will be registered under, and in compliance with, applicable federal and provincial legislation. All ASTs will meet the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) Environmental Code of Practice for Aboveground Storage Tank Systems Containing Petroleum Products (1994). The transportation, storage and handling of fuels will be in compliance with the Ontario Technical Standards and Safety Act (Government of Ontario 2000) and Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act (Government of Canada 1992). Transport vehicles will be maintained according to safety requirements and transportation of fuel on winter roads will only take place in safe ice conditions (e.g., open roads where ice thickness has been measured).

Fuelling areas at temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps will include drainage controls including secondary containment with a storage capacity of at least 110% of the fuel tank. Drainage will be retained in a sump where hydrocarbons can be captured and separated prior to the release of any rainwater run-off, as appropriate. Equipment with reduced mobility, such as heavy lift cranes and excavators, will have fuel delivered by a mobile tank and re-fuelling will take place on-site. All fuel transfers will follow safety procedures to prevent leaks and drips, and spill response kits will be available on all vehicles used to transport fuel. Generally, vehicles will be fueled at the camp; however, if fuelling of vehicles and other mobile equipment is required at the site then fuelling will not be permitted within 30 m of a waterbody. If re-fueling within 30 m of a waterbody cannot be avoided, a Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan will be implemented.



Maintenance and Repairs Typical transmission line maintenance activities include minor adjustments and replacements (e.g., replacement of insulators). However, more extensive repairs may be required that could involve the replacement of anchors or guy wires, necessitating the use of heavy equipment such as backhoes or cranes. Other maintenance to a lesser degree includes station service and protection re-verification, as well as grounds maintenance and snow removal.

Equipment maintenance will be conducted in accordance with manufacturer's requirements and will be completed on-site. All maintenance and repair activities will be undertaken in compliance with applicable environmental rules and regulations. Any field servicing will be conducted a minimum of 30 m from any waterbody or wetland, unless otherwise approved or in the event of an emergency. Waste oil will be collected and stored in drums (clearly marked as waste oil) inside a dyked area and will be regularly shipped for disposal. Waste oils, lubricants and other used oil will be disposed of at authorized disposal sites.

Emergency maintenance may be required in the event of bad weather or power outages. Emergency maintenance will be carried out in the most time sensitive manner while recognizing the need to notify landowners and acquire the necessary permits, if required. Spare parts and poles will be stored in case emergency maintenance is required. The quantity of this material and storage location will be determined by the operator.

9.3.1.10 Liquid Waste Management Plan

The contractor will develop a Liquid Waste Management Plan for review and approval by Wataynikaneyap that describes the appropriate management of waste. Any liquid industrial waste, if generated by the proposed Project, will be registered in the Hazardous Waste Information Network (HWIN) and handled in accordance with O. Reg. 349.

Domestic Wastewater Domestic wastewater from temporary construction camps and work sites will be disposed of in one of two ways. Wastewater from toilets at temporary construction camps and portable sanitation facilities at work sites will be collected in approved vehicles and hauled to existing WWTPs or wastewater disposal facilities designed to accept this type of waste.

If an onsite sewage system with a design capacity of less than 10,000 L/Day is required, Wataynikaneyap will obtain a Northwestern Health Unit Permit. If sewage works in excess of 10,000 L/Day are required on site, Wataynikaneyap will obtain a MOECC approval pursuant to Section 53 of the Ontario Water Resources Act.

Grey Water Grey water (i.e., relatively clean waste water from baths, sinks, washing machines) will be discharged to leaching beds at the temporary construction camps. All required permits and authorizations under the Environmental

Protection Act (EPA) will be acquired for construction and operation of the leaching beds. Leaching beds will be designed and constructed according to R.R.O 1990, Reg. 358: Sewage Systems design requirements. Conditions requiring monitoring or inspection of leaching beds would be included in the required ministry approvals.

Truck washing water or equipment washing water will not be disposed by leaching beds. Vehicles and equipment washing water will be collected in closed loop recycle systems, or contained and hauled to an existing wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) or wastewater disposal facility designed to accept this type of waste. If vehicle and



equipment washing water is collected and temporarily contained prior to disposal, a sewage ECA needs to be obtained for holding tanks and/or containers. Closed-loop recycle systems will be non-discharging systems where wash water is recycled until a certain level of contamination is reached, when it will be disposed of to an existing WWTP. Wash water will be passed through a treatment system (e.g., an oil water separator fitted with a grit settling chamber) prior to reuse. Separated solids will be tested, and contaminated material will be temporarily stored in containers, then hauled and disposed of at an approved landfill.

Construction Water Construction water (i.e., water from site dewatering) will be discharged in compliance with O. Reg. 387/04 as amended by O. Reg. 64/16 and/or O. Reg. 63/16 under the Environmental Protection Act, where applicable.

In the event that contaminated soil or groundwater is encountered during construction, an investigation will be completed and the soil or groundwater will be disposed and managed according to applicable rules and regulations.

9.3.1.11 Hazardous Waste Management Plan

Hazardous waste may include used oils, lubricants, and antifreeze, as well as spent lubricating cartridges, oily rags, oily drums, fuel containers, batteries and fluorescent bulbs. A Hazardous Waste Management Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start of construction. The Hazardous Waste Management Plan may include the following key mitigation measures for the appropriate handling of hazardous waste:

Solid waste disposal services including hazardous and non-hazardous waste will be provided on-site at temporary construction camps.

If temporary storage of hazardous waste is required, they will be stored in labelled, closed, compatible containers, with secondary containment if appropriate.

Use only approved containers in licensed vehicles to transport hazardous waste.

Store and handle hazardous waste in designated areas with appropriate secondary containment and in a manner compliant with legislation and health and safety guidelines.

Design storage facilities for hazardous waste to protect the environment and workers from exposure.

Dispose of hazardous waste in compliance with O. Reg. 347 as amended by O. Reg. 86/16 under the Environmental Protection Act.

Train personnel working on-site and handling hazardous materials about best practices for the transportation of dangerous goods to avoid negatively affecting wildlife by introducing hazardous waste into the environment.

Monitor waste management practices for improvement through adaptive management, when necessary.

In addition, Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will prepare and implement a Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan that describes spill prevention and response procedures, clearly indicates responsibilities for communication and reports, and provides contact names and details for individuals to be contacted in case of emergency. An overview of this plan is provided in Section 9.3.1.13.



9.3.1.12 Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan

Wataynikaneyap, with their contractor(s) will develop a Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan for the Project that describes the appropriate management of waste such as domestic garbage and camp waste (i.e., food).

The Non-Hazardous Solid Waste Management Plan may include the following measures for appropriate management of non-hazardous solid wastes:

Store and transport of all solid waste according to applicable provincial and federal laws and regulations, including waste storage in compliance with Ontario Regulation 347 and obtaining an Ontario Waste Management System Approval for waste transportation.

Provide portable, secure, solid waste receptacles on work sites, temporary laydown areas and construction camps, and empty them periodically.

Separate organic waste, recyclable materials and non-hazardous solid waste at the facilities. Use only appropriate containers for temporary storage before being transported to an approved waste disposal site.

Site solid waste handling and storage facilities at temporary construction camps outside a minimum 30-m buffer around waterbodies, to the extent practical.

Provide drainage controls to solid waste handling and storage facilities at temporary construction camps.

Manage and dispose of solid waste in compliance with O. Reg. 347 as amended by O. Reg. 86/16.

Secure an agreement with one or more licensed waste disposal facilities to accept Project generated waste providing that the facility can accept the type of waste generated by the Project.

Implement a waste recycling and reduction program for the proposed Project to initially reduce the amount of waste that is generated; and identify the appropriate waste facilities and transporters (industrial and domestic) that will dispose of Project generated waste appropriately.

Implement a waste recycling and reduction program for Project-related waste, and identify appropriate waste disposal facilities.

Dispose of organic solid waste disposal at the temporary construction camps in compliance with applicable guidelines and regulatory requirements. Organic solid waste may be temporarily stored in bear‐proof containers before being transported to facility designed to accept this waste.

Implement a recycling program will be implemented at all temporary construction camps to reduce the amount of solid waste generated as a requirement of the construction contract with Wataynikaneyap.

Train personnel in industry standard non-hazardous waste management practices and procedures.

Prior to commencing construction, Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will register the Project with Ontario’s Hazardous Waste Information Network (HWIN).

The establishment of a Project waste disposal facility is not anticipated. However, in the event that one is required, Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will obtain required approvals



9.3.1.13 Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan

Wataynikaneyap will review and approve a Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan that describes spill prevention and response procedures, clearly indicates responsibilities for communication and reports, and provides contact names and details for individuals to be contacted in case of emergency.

Objectives of the plan include:

protection and maintenance of human health and safety;

identification of the potential for accidents and emergency situations;

planned response to accidents and emergency situations; and

prevention and mitigation of potential environmental effects associated with accidents and emergency situations.

The Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan may include the following key mitigation measures:

Implement mobile double-walled fuel tank systems, where practical, to minimize the potential for accidental spills.

Establish a distance to be maintained for the equipment use, storage facilities and activities that could result in an accidental spill.

Use proper storage handling and techniques of materials.

Provide adequate supply of spill prevention and emergency response equipment on site at all times.

Employ appropriate practices to prevent minor leaks and spills. Design and construct designated fueling areas to collect and contain minor leaks and spill.

Re-fuelling, service and maintenance of vehicles and equipment will generally be carried out in designated areas at temporary construction camps and temporary laydown areas a minimum of 30 m from waterbodies. Designated areas will be designed and constructed to collect and contain minor leaks and spill. Appropriate practices will be employed to prevent minor leaks and spills. If re-fuelling within 30 m of a waterbody cannot be avoided, a spill prevention plan will be implemented. Containment measures may consist of impermeable liners, sloped appropriately and buried into the ground, portable berms (insta-berms) or concrete pads with perimeter drainage control.

For vehicles and equipment owned/rented by Wataynikaneyap or their contractor(s) only properly functioning vehicles and equipment will be operated.

Vehicles and equipment will be regularly serviced, maintained and inspected for leaks.

Contain and clean up spills and leaks as soon as possible following incidents.

Dispose of spills at an approved industrial waste disposal facility.

Provide spill response kits in fuel and hazardous materials storage and handling facilities. Drip trays will be used when fueling trucks and stationary vehicles in all fueling areas.



Fuel storage tanks will include drainage controls including secondary containment with adequate capacity to contain spills.

Drainage from fuelling areas will be retained in a sump where hydrocarbons can be captured and separated prior to the release, as appropriate.

Register aboveground storage tanks under, and in compliance with, applicable federal and provincial legislation.

The transportation, storage, and handling of fuel and hazardous materials will be in compliance with the Technical Standards and Safety Act (Government of Ontario 2000).

Transportation of fuel on winter roads will only take place in safe ice conditions. Machinery is to arrive on site in a clean condition and is to be maintained free of fluid leaks.

Train personnel in spill avoidance, clean up and reporting procedures.

Wataynikaneyap with their contractor will be responsible for the costs of any potential Project-related remediation in the event of an accidental spill.

9.3.1.14 Sediment and Erosion Control Plan

A Sediment and Erosion Control Plan will be prepared for the Project prior to start construction. The contractor will implement appropriate sediment and erosion control structures and stormwater best management practices to eliminate or minimize sedimentation and erosion during Project construction. The proposed Project will be designed and constructed to minimize scouring, erosion or flooding of the land or receiving stream. The following guideline documents will be reviewed when preparing sediment and erosion control mitigation measures:

Stormwater Management Planning and Design Manual (MOE 2003), when determining and designing stormwater management controls;

Guideline B-6 – Guideline for Evaluating Construction Activities Impacting on Water Resources (MOE 1995), when developing sediment and erosion control plans;

Ontario Provincial Standard Specification (OPSS 805) – Construction Specifications for Temporary Erosion and Sediment Control Measures;

Ontario Provincial Standard Specification (OPSS 182) – General specifications for Environmental Protection for Construction in Waterbodies and on Waterbody Banks; and

Ontario Provincial Standard Specification (OPSS 518) – Construction Specifications for Control of Water from Dewatering Operations.

Temporary erosion control measures must be:

properly installed;

installed before or immediately after initial disturbance; and

inspected and properly maintained (e.g., repaired, replaced or supplemented with functional materials) throughout construction until permanent erosion control is established or reclamation is complete.



Erosion control measures may include the following:

The 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW, and existing roads will be used for access, to the extent practical, to minimize changes in land cover.

Temporary road building material and fill material (e.g., gravel, shipped rock) and geotextile membrane, if used during construction, will be removed.

Temporary laydown areas and temporary construction camps will be constructed on existing disturbed areas and/or at reasonably flat areas with stable soil sites, where possible.

Disturbed areas will be stabilized (e.g., cover exposed areas with erosion control blankets or tarps to keep the soil in place and prevent erosion). Such areas will be covered with mulch to prevent erosion.

If topsoil stockpiles need to be in place for longer periods (i.e., two weeks to a month), stabilize topsoil stockpiles as soon as practical by seeding, spreading mulch, or installing erosion control blankets.

Install, monitor, and manage appropriate erosion and sedimentation control measures to minimize or avoid sediment mobilization to drainages, or waterbodies. Adequate and appropriate erosion and sedimentation control materials shall be on-site and available prior to commencement of construction.


Use clearing equipment that minimizes surface disturbance, soil compaction and topsoil loss (e.g. equipment with low ground pressure tracks or tires, blade shores and brush), to the extent practical.

Erosion and sedimentation control measures will be monitored by an Environmental Monitor to minimize sediment mobilization from disturbed areas to drainages, wetlands or watercourses.

9.3.1.15 Blasting Management Plan

Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will develop a Blasting Management Plan to minimize Project effects from blasting activities (i.e., vibration). The Blasting Management Plan will be implemented for areas where explosives and blasting are used to create level areas for transmission structures, roads and for foundation excavations and may include the following key mitigation measures:

Use explosives if excavation to remove materials for foundation systems and roads is not feasible.

To the extent feasible, blasting will not be conducted within 50 m of water wells.

Blasting operations will follow DFO’s Measures to Avoid Causing Harm to Fish and Fish Habitat Including Aquatic Species at Risk (DFO 2016a) and Guidelines for the Use of Explosives in or Near Canadian Fisheries Waters (Wright and Hopky 1998) including:

for setback distances from fish-bearing waterbodies; and

avoiding use of explosives in or near water.

Some fractures created from blasting adjacent to the foundation may be filled with grout.

Prior to construction, Wataynikaneyap will identify shallow domestic groundwater wells and any contaminant monitoring wells within 120 m of the selected corridor excavation and 250 m of the blast locations. If domestic groundwater wells are identified, Wataynikaneyap will provide the option to groundwater well owners to



participate in a well monitoring program to determine pre-construction groundwater quality and quantity. If contaminant monitoring wells are identified, Wataynikaneyap will review groundwater sampling results at these wells prior to dewatering near these potential contamination sources. If groundwater contamination at these locations are confirmed then the water will be disposed of appropriately.

A pre-blast survey of groundwater wells within 250 m of all blast locations be conducted. For wells that are identified as vulnerable, these owners will be invited to participate in a pre-blast survey that could include, but may not be limited to, a measurement of well water levels, completion of a water well questionnaire, and collection of a water quality samples if deemed necessary. It should be noted that measurement of well water levels must be conducted by a qualified person in accordance with the Wells Regulation (O.Reg. 903).

All water supply wells will be installed and decommissioned in accordance with O. Reg. 903 once they are no longer required.

In any areas where flowing artesian conditions are encountered in a borehole or excavation, special precautions to prevent continued flow following construction must be taken.

Check the blast zone for large wildlife species before a blast.

Blast mats will be used to control release of materials and noise during blasting.

Ammonium nitrate and fuel oil will not be used. Explosives will be in emulsion form, to mitigate potential dissolution and poor explosive performance in the presence of water, noting that emulsion type explosives are highly water resistant.

The transportation and storage of explosives will be in compliance with the Explosives Act and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, 1992, where applicable, recognizing that explosives will be transported in vehicles with valid Natural Resources Canada (NRC) permits, and stored in properly sited and secured magazines licensed by the NRC.

Wataynikaneyap will employ only qualified persons, with appropriate training and experience, to carry out the transportation and handling of explosives. Good housekeeping practices will be observed during loading of explosives with a plan to immediately clean up spills and detonate in the blast. Proper loading techniques will be implemented to minimize the use of excess explosives and the potential for spillage. Waste rock (from the construction of tower foundations) and aggregates (from quarrying activities) areis expected to be free of blasting residues.

Blasting wastes may include discarded explosives and packaging containing chemical residues (classified as hazardous wastes), as well as waste rock. Discarded explosives will either be detonated on-site as part of the blast with explosives packaging on a day-to-day basis, or temporarily stored in the explosives magazine and returned to the explosives distributor.

9.3.1.16 Concrete Management Plan

A Concrete Management Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start of construction and will include the key mitigation measures described below for minimizing potential project effects due to the use of concrete as a construction material:



Isolate concrete work areas to prevent direct flow into waterbodies so that water does not become more alkaline during construction.

Prevent water that contacts uncured or partly cured concrete during activities, such as equipment washing from directly or indirectly entering a waterbody.

Water that contacts uncured or partly cured concrete and does not meet provincial water quality criteria will not be released directly to the environment.

Do not deposit, directly or indirectly, concrete, cement, mortar, grout or other lime containing construction materials into or near a waterbody.

Provide containment facilities for the wash-down water from concrete delivery trucks, concrete pumping equipment and other tools and equipment.

Remove excess concrete from the Project site and dispose of in accordance with construction waste disposal requirements in the Waste Management Plan.

The contractor must have an Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) for the concrete batch plant and comply with the conditions of the ECA.

Washwater from the cleaning of mixers, mixer trucks, and concrete delivery systems will flow into closed system aggregate rinsing settling basins. In the event that water from the closed settling system is intended for release, it will be tested first for parameters related to concrete additives, pH, and total suspended solids, and will meet Ontario Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO) and CCME Canadian Water Quality Guidelines (CWQG) for the Protection of Aquatic Life prior to discharge.

Report spills of sediments, fines, concrete fines, wash or contact water to Wataynikaneyap. Implement the Spill Prevention and Emergency Response Plan.

Minimize concrete work within 30 m from a waterbody as much as possible.

Employ dust suppression at concrete batch plants.

Keep a carbon dioxide (CO2) tank with regulator, hose and gas diffuser readily available. The tank will be used to release CO2 gas into an affected area to neutralize pH levels should a spill occur. Project personnel shall be trained in the use of the tank.

Frequently monitor the pH immediately downstream of the isolated work area until completion of the concrete work. Emergency measures shall be implemented if downstream pH exceeds provincial water quality standards.

Maintain complete isolation of cast-in-place concrete and grouting from fish-bearing waters for a minimum of 48 hours if the ambient air temperature is above 0°C and for a minimum of 72 hours if ambient air temperature is below 0°C.

9.3.1.17 Clean-up and Reclamation Plan

A Clean-up and Reclamation Plan will be prepared for the Project prior to the start of construction. Project site clean-up and reclamation activities will take place throughout the duration of the Project and the final reclamation will begin once construction is complete. The goal of the reclamation is to return disturbed areas back to



pre-existing conditions, where reasonably practical and while maintaining access and appropriate drainage and abiding by operation and maintenance standards.

Wataynikaneyap with their contractor will conduct a final site inspection to assess that cleanup and erosion and sediment controls are complete and satisfactory before equipment is removed from the Project site.

Wataynikaneyap with their contractor will implement the following mitigation measures for clean-up and reclamation:

Monitor and manage reclamation concerns, including but not limited to soil erosion, re-vegetation, slope stability and weeds.

Follow measures outlined in the Soil Handling Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.14) and Invasive Species Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.7) as required, including when working in wet areas.

Implement remedial measures if reclamation does not return disturbed areas back to pre-existing conditions, where reasonably practical, while maintaining access and appropriate drainage and abiding by operation and maintenance standards.

Complete final reclamation during non-frozen conditions, where possible.

Clean up projects constructed in non-frozen conditions as soon as possible, and before freeze-up, if possible.

Schedule cleanup to avoid or minimize interference to wildlife, migratory birds and fish spawning as much as possible (see recommended timing windows and restrictions in Table 9.3-1 and Wildlife Management Plan).

A protective layer such as frost packing, snow, ice or matting or biodegradable geotextile may be used to mitigate compaction rutting, admixing or other detrimental effects to soil or vegetation.

Remove temporary road building material and fill material (e.g., gravel, shipped rock) and geotextile membrane if used during construction.

Remove geotextiles, and matting from the Project site. Materials that could be reused elsewhere on the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW will be cleaned of mud and vegetation before transferring and using at a different location. The contractor will inspect equipment and vehicles arriving on site or at the Project staging/marshalling area prior to Project site entry and record cleaning locations.

Remove all temporary waterbody crossing structures and associated granular materials from waterbodies outside of the restricted activity timing windows and restrictions identified in Table 9.3-1.

Remove remaining garbage and debris from the Project site.

De-compact subsoils throughout stripped areas of Project site, and soils damaged during wet weather using stripping, discing or other appropriate method.

Postpone de-compaction of subsoils, if soils are moist, until soils dry so that the soils fracture when ripped.

Re-contour disturbed areas to restore drainage patterns and the approximate pre-construction profile.

Regrade areas with vehicle ruts and erosion gullies to restore drainage patterns and the approximate pre-construction profile.



Practice progressive reclamation of disturbed areas, including aggregate pits that are no longer predicted to be used.

Decommission and rehabilitate temporary access roads, waterbody crossings, temporary laydown areas, and temporary construction camps following construction.

Do not apply fertilizer or coarse woody debris (e.g., mulch) in wetlands.

Install rollback or other bank stabilization methods (e.g., live willow cuttings) at waterbody crossings when reconstructing waterbody banks, as required, to improve stability and to re-establish cover and habitat for fish-bearing waterbodies.

Use natural recovery in wetlands.

Stabilize disturbed areas with high erosion potential (e.g., cover exposed areas with mulch, erosion control blankets or tarps to keep the soil in place and prevent erosion).


Use clearing equipment that minimizes surface disturbance, soil compaction and topsoil loss (e.g., equipment with low ground pressure tracks or tires, blade shores and brush), where feasible.

Temporary erosion and sediment control measures will be installed, monitored and managed, as required, to prevent sediment-laden runoff from the Project site (i.e., access road) from entering waterbodies during site cleanup and reclamation.

Natural recovery is the preferred method of reclamation. Where necessary, seedling planting will occur to improve reclamation success. In caribou ranges, planting of jack pine and spruce will follow guidelines in the Best Management Practices for Renewable Energy, Energy Infrastructure and Energy Transmission Activities and Woodland Caribou in Ontario (MNRF 2014l). That is jack pine or spruce will be planted at a minimum density of 1,000 stems per hectare or jack pine will be seeded at 20,000 viable seeds per hectare (MNRF 2014l). Conifer planting will occur on areas of temporary disturbance (e.g., temporary access roads, laydown areas, camps, and workspaces) where such forest types are naturally expected and/or where habitat enhancement is identified. Wataynikaneyap will confirm reclamation plans through engagement with Aboriginal communities, the MNRF, the ECCC (where relevant to First Nation reserve lands), and SFL holders (where applicable). Effectiveness of reclamation efforts will be monitored and managed post-construction, including confirmation that vegetation communities that naturally regenerate (or were planted) are similar to adjacent vegetation communities. If required, adaptive management will be employed to modify or enhance any reclamation efforts.

Where vegetation has established, or risk for sedimentation and erosion has been mitigated, remove temporary erosion and sediment control measures.

An Environmental Monitor will be onsite during construction to oversee implementation and effectiveness of mitigation measures.



Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will be responsible for the costs of any potential Project-related remediation resulting from clean-up and reclamation.

9.3.1.18 Archaeology Management Plan

The purpose of the Archaeology Management Plan is to outline how both Aboriginal and Euro-Canadian archaeological sites will be mitigated during the construction of the Project.

The primary objective of the Archaeology Management Plan is to ensure that any accidental impacts to Aboriginal and Euro-Canadian archaeological sites are minimized and any work completed will be in compliance with the Ontario Heritage Act and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport’s (MTCS) 2011 Standards and Guidelines for

Consultant Archaeologists.

The Archaeology Management Plan for the Project include the following measures which describe appropriate management and protection of the archaeological resources that may potentially be identified in the Project footprint.

As fieldwork is required, it is anticipated that the archaeological field crews will include Aboriginal individuals from geographically close communities, with preference given to Wataynikaneyap partner communities. It is expected that the Aboriginal field technicians will serve as active members of the field team where training will be reciprocal and fluid. Training of the Aboriginal field technicians by Golder staff will be ongoing throughout the field program and efforts will be made to incorporate the Aboriginal field technicians in the washing and interpretation of any material culture recovered during the field program. Detailed mapping of the areas of archaeological potential have been submitted as part of the Stage 1 archaeological assessment. In addition to the mapping, Golder’s Stage 1 archaeological assessment report details the rationale and methodologies employed for determining archaeological potential and for determining areas requiring Stage 2 archaeological assessment.

Should the Project cross areas of archaeological potential then further archaeological assessment will be required (i.e. Stage 2). Should archaeological resources be encountered during any future assessments, mitigation of these archaeological resources may take the form of excavation, or avoidance and protection. The following provides specific mitigation measures:

Completion of Stage 2 (and Stage 3 and 4 if required) to determine whether archaeological sites are present within the Project footprint and to recommend appropriate mitigation measures should archaeological resources be identified. The Stage 2 assessment should follow Section 2.1.5 and 2.1.9 in the MTCS’ Standards and Guidelines for consultant Archaeologists (Government of Canada, 2011).

The Stage 2 (and Stage 3 and 4, if required) should involve Aboriginal community members interested and/or knowledgeable of the area. Training of First Nation community members on archaeological fieldwork methods as well as general theory should be built into the project scope. Training of local community members will build capacity for future archaeological projects within and outside their traditional territories.

Completion of marine archaeological assessment on the preferred corridor if effects to areas below the high-water mark are anticipated. Additional mitigation measures may be identified and implemented. These will be included communicated to First Nation communities and the MTCS.



Use existing access roads where possible.

Survey and mark the Project footprint before construction to limit activities to the designated areas of the Project.

Identified archaeological resources near the Project footprint will be staked or flagged.

Project personnel will avoid areas that are flagged or fenced and abide by restrictions on in/out privileges that are implemented in areas requiring special protection due to environmentally sensitive features.

No clearing or construction activity will be permitted within flagged or fenced areas that contain archaeological resources

As indicated in the Standards and Guidelines for Consultant Archaeologists (MTCS 2011), archaeological work will not be completed during poor weather and lighting conditions (e.g., snow cover, frozen ground, excessive rain or drought).

In the event that archaeological resources not previously identified are suspected or encountered unexpectedly during construction, implement the following mitigation measures:

Suspend activity at that location. Work at that location will not resume until permission is granted by Wataynikaneyap who will engage First Nations and their elders to obtain direction.

Following engagement with the affected First Nation communities and their elders, Wataynikaneyap will bring in a licensed archaeologist and contact the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS).

The licenced archaeologist may deem it necessary to visit the site and will, regardless of whether a site visit is required, develop an appropriate mitigation measures plan including engagement with Wataynikaneyap, affected First Nation communities, their elders and other relevant parties, and if necessary, the appropriate regulatory agencies.

Continue to offer ongoing engagement to affected communities and apply protocols identified by First Nation communities for land access and treatment of findings. Wataynikaneyap will consult with MTCS regarding proposed protocols on treatment of findings, where appropriate.

If site assessment is deemed necessary, the site will be assessed based on the following criteria:

the cultural importance of the site to the affected community;

the location of the site with respect to the Project footprint; and

the feasibility of alternate routing or siting to avoid the resource.

Based on site assessment, recommendations will be made through engagement with First Nation communities, if applicable and with MTCS (e.g., documenting, removing and salvaging) and other relevant parties.

Protect archaeological sites identified adjacent to the Project, if deemed appropriate based on the assessment.

Collection of archaeological resources by Project personnel is prohibited. Project personnel will be provided guidance before construction.



If requested, the preferred option for the long-term curation and storage of the artifact collection recovered during the Phase 2 project should be managed by the various Aboriginal communities. Transfer of the archaeological collections from Golder to an Aboriginal community can occur either through working with the MTCS on a “Collections Transfer” or through a repatriation agreement. A transfer of the artifact assemblage through the MTCS process can be difficult as the local communities may not have the required facilities to house the artifacts. When a transfer is not feasible, the artifact assemblage may be repatriated. Either scenario may only take place once all associated fieldwork have been completed, and the related archaeological assessment reports have been reviewed and approved by the MTCS.

9.3.1.19 Cultural Heritage Management Plan

The Cultural Heritage Management Plan for the Project include the following measures which describe appropriate management and protection of the built heritage resources and cultural heritage landscapes that may potentially be identified in the Project LSA.

Following guidance provided by the MTCS a cultural heritage assessment report (CHAR) will be conducted to identify and assess impacts to built heritage resources and cultural heritage landscapes in the Project LSA. If any potential resources are evaluated in the CHAR as being of cultural heritage value or interest and will be adversely affected by the Project more detailed site specific Cultural Heritage Evaluation Reports (CHERs) and/or Heritage Impact Assessments (HIAs) will be completed as necessary and additional mitigation measures, if required, will be implemented prior to construction. Additional cultural heritage studies may also recommend studies such as a Heritage Conservation Plan (HCP) be undertaken to guide protection and conservation of specific cultural heritage resources. The results of these studies will be provided to the Aboriginal communities, as applicable, and the MTCS.

Survey and mark the Project footprint before construction to limit activities to the designated areas of the Project.

Project personnel will be made aware when working near identified potential cultural heritage resources and avoid areas that are flagged or fenced, and abide by restrictions on in/out privileges.

Use existing access roads where possible.

In the event that cultural heritage or archaeological resources not previously identified are suspected or encountered unexpectedly during construction, implement the following mitigation measures:

Suspend activity at that location Work at that location will not resume until permission is granted by Wataynikaneyap who will engage First Nations and their elders to obtain direction.

Following engagement with the affected First Nation communities and their elders, Wataynikaneyap will bring in a cultural resource specialist and contact the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS).

The resource specialist may deem it necessary to visit the site and will, regardless of whether a site visit is required, develop an appropriate mitigation measures plan following guidance provided in the MTCS Ontario Heritage Tool Kit: A Guide to Cultural Heritage Resources in the Land Use Planning Process

(review draft 2017) and in engagement with Wataynikaneyap, affected First Nation communities, their elders and other relevant parties, and if necessary, the appropriate regulatory agencies.



Continue to offer ongoing engagement to affected communities and apply protocols identified by First Nation communities for land access and treatment of findings.

If site assessment is deemed necessary, the site will be assessed based on the following criteria:

the importance of the cultural heritage resource;

the location of the cultural heritage resource with respect to the Project footprint; and

the feasibility of alternate routing or siting to avoid the cultural heritage resource.

Based on site assessment, recommendations will be made in engagement with First Nation communities, if applicable, and with the MTCS (e.g., documenting, removing and salvaging).

9.3.1.20 Undocumented Waterbody Discovery Plan

An Undocumented Waterbody Discovery plan will be implemented to account for waterbodies that were not identified during the development of the waterbody crossing list (Section 6.2.5.1.1).

If new waterbodies are identified prior to construction, an Aquatics Specialist will be contacted to assess the waterbody. Depending on the nature of the waterbody, recommendations for construction methods, appropriate mitigation measures, and permitting requirements will be made by the Aquatics Specialist, and if necessary, the local First Nation communities and appropriate regulatory agencies including MNRF and DFO will be engaged. This will allow for the appropriate mitigation measures to be implemented during construction at each waterbody crossing at a site-specific level which will reduce or avoid potential effects to habitat quantity and quality.

If new waterbodies are identified during construction, the waterbody will be clearly flagged and activity within 30 m of the location will be suspended until an Aquatic Specialist has assessed the waterbody and determined a suitable course of action, which may include contacting MNRF and DFO.

All necessary permits and approvals will be acquired prior to water crossing construction, with adherence to all terms and conditions. DFO’s self-assessment and request for review process will be followed in the permitting stage of the Project, along with MNRF regulatory requirements.”

9.3.2 Operation and Maintenance Stage The environmental management plans identified for the construction stage of the Project (Section 9.3.1) will continue to be applied during the operation and maintenance stage as required. In addition, a Post-construction Monitoring Plan (Section 9.3.2.1) and a Vegetation Management Plan (Section 9.3.2.2) will be implemented during the operation and maintenance stage.



9.3.2.1 Post-construction Monitoring Plan

The Project has been designed to incorporate mitigation measures to minimize the potential for environmental effects. An effective monitoring program provides results to indicate if the assumptions used in the assessment were correct and if mitigation measures are effective. An effective monitoring program also identifies unforeseen problems so they can be addressed in a timely manner.

The preliminary monitoring program for the Project is presented in Section 12.0. Details will be finalized during permitting processes. Monitoring programs are presented according to the environmental components considered in the assessment.

9.3.2.2 Vegetation Management Plan

Vegetation height restrictions adhere to best management practices for transmission lines and comply with Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) requirements, which are based on North American Electricity Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards (NERC 2009). A maximum height of approximately 2 m will reduce the risk of contact electrical interaction between vegetation and power lines while maintaining visual break, retaining tree patches and discouraging predator use along the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW. The minimum clearance between vegetation and the power line takes into account the point of maximum sag of the power line, allowing plant growth over the five to eight-year cycle for vegetation management, and considers location within the province and local conditions (i.e., temperature and load of the line).

During the operation and maintenance stage, a Vegetation Management Plan will be implemented with a goal to keep vegetation from interfering with the safe and reliable operation and maintenance of the transmission line, or prohibit access to the transmission line structures, with a compatible vegetation height of approximately 2 m or less. Vegetation Management Plan is also necessary to promote sustainable plant communities that are compatible with the intended use of the site.

The following mitigation measures may be implemented by Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s):

Within the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW, implement selective mechanical clearing by retaining shrub vegetation, trees, wildlife trees, and coarse woody debris in selective, environmentally sensitive areas. This selective clearing will be done, where practicable and where safe and reliable operation practices can still be achieved. Where possible, schedule work activities in wet areas during frozen conditions. This selective clearing will be done to maintain compliance with NERC Vegetation Management Requirements (clearance between the energized power line and vegetation) as well. This effort overlaps the mitigation measure of avoidance of herbicide use, which will likely result in rapid and extensive regrowth in areas with high productive soils (e.g., deciduous stands).

Plan mechanical vegetation management to consider the sensitive periods and restrictions identified in Table 9.3-1.

In the event a rare plant species or a rare vegetation community are suspected or encountered unexpectedly, or cannot be avoided, the Rare Plant Management Plan (Section 9.3.1.6) will be implemented.

Protect and flag rare plant species or rare vegetation community within the proposed cleared area.

Promote use of compatible species of trees and shrubs.



Identify and remove any invasive species introduced by the Project during construction.

Monitoring will be undertaken the year following construction where rehabilitation was completed to identify introduced invasive species and prioritize removal.

Revegetation of residual construction footprints.

Practice vegetation control periodically throughout the life of a transmission line to prevent vegetation becoming a threat to line operation and maintenance.

Manage vegetation according to clearance-to-ground levels to allow for increased vegetation height (i.e., over watercourses and within ravines).

Removed vegetation will be immediately transported outside a waterbody buffer zone (30 m), and above its high-water mark.

Use mechanical or manual methods to clear vegetation; chemical use, including herbicides, is not permitted.

Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will continue to evaluate industry best practice and techniques for vegetation management.

Allow compatible vegetation to regrow in the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW to grow back to a maximum height of 2 m, including riparian vegetation buffer.

Clearly mark and map known site-specific features (e.g., rare vegetation community, wildlife trees, wild rice harvest areas, and CLVA).

Do not skid logs across or push logs into waterbodies. Only remove vegetation adjacent to a waterbody if where necessary.


9.4 Social Management Plan Wataynikaneyap identified community support as an important social objective. Wataynikaneyap’s objective is to support community development by maximizing local and regional benefits. Wataynikaneyap plans to maximize local benefits by creating jobs and favouring local purchases, facilitating local business development, improving local and regional infrastructure and sharing the wealth with the Aboriginal and local communities.

Wataynikaneyap will develop a Social Management Plan for the Project. The overall objectives of the Social Management Plan is to provide the means for Wataynikaneyap to work together with the Aboriginal and local communities to:

understand community needs;

clarify community expectations;

communicate Wataynikaneyap’s management plans;

identify mutually beneficial business opportunities; and

identify potential independent business opportunities.



The Project’s Social Management Plan will include a Procurement Plan, Indigenous Participation Plan, Skills Development and Training Plan, Workforce Accommodation Management Plan, Aboriginal and Stakeholder Engagement Plan, plan for Procurement, Employment, Employee Accommodation, and other social management plans including Engagement and Communication Plan, Aboriginal Engagement Plan, Stakeholder Engagement Plan, Traffic/Road Management Plan, and Occupational Health and Safety Plan. Sections 9.4.1 to 9.4.7 include key considerations for each of these plans.

The Social Management Plan will be developed to address the avoidance of, minimization of, and/or compensation for negative socio-economic effects and the enhancement of positive benefits that could result from the Project Socio-economic effects are assessed based on criterion-specific LSAs and regional study areas (RSAs) which are summarized in Section 7.4, Table 7.4-3. The criterion-specific LSAs were established to encompass the area within which the Project is expected to interact with and potentially have direct and/or indirect effects on the criterion.

9.4.1 Procurement Plan Project procurement of materials, goods and services during construction could affect local and regional business revenues. Wataynikaneyap with its contractors will support local and regional procurement where practical.

9.4.2 Employment and Participation Plan Through the Wataynikaneyap Indigenous Participation Plan, Wataynikaneyap plans to create meaningful, long-term benefits for local Aboriginal communities by developing programs to support:

Community Readiness;

Aboriginal Education, Training, Skills Development, and Employment;

Aboriginal Business Readiness and Contracting;

Aboriginal Ownership (Economic Participation); and

Communications.

In addition, as part of the Indigenous Participation Plan, Wataynikaneyap will track the outcomes of their efforts to increase Aboriginal participation in the Project including:

number of community members enrolled in training (for each training round);

number of community members completed training (for each training round);

number of community members employed; and

number of service contracts with First Nations businesses.

9.4.3 Skills Development and Training Plan Wataynikaneyap will develop a Skills Development and Training Plan to support general work readiness and skill development of the partner First Nations to and enhance local and Aboriginal participation in the Project, as well as other projects in the region. This plan could include the following aspects:



Wataynikaneyap and their contractors will work with local and Aboriginal communities to identify training requirements for the Project during construction.

Post and communicate qualification and skill requirements for construction workers to communities in advance of construction activities.

Identifying potential shortage of workers with specific skill requirements and work with economic development departments and corporations of local Aboriginal communities to identify local training and educational facilities and programs that can provide development and upgrade of skills in advance of Project construction.

Implement agreements with prime contractors to support on the job apprenticeships for Aboriginal workers, in specialized areas requiring apprenticeship hours.

Potential funding to support Aboriginal skills training bursaries to local and regional training institutes and trades training programs.

To the extent possible, Wataynikaneyap will source the workforce locally for the construction of the Project. Staffing for the Project is expected to be the responsibility of Wataynikaneyap. If the necessary labour skills for construction cannot be sourced locally, labour will need to be sourced from other areas in Ontario or outside of Ontario, if required. However, opportunities for employment of nearby residents are possible if the appropriate training and qualifications are obtained in time to meet the construction schedule.

Wataynikaneyap intends to prioritize qualified local Aboriginal candidates for direct employment opportunities and will support local and First Nation hiring and procurement where the required skills and experience match Project requirements. Wataynikaneyap will communicate employment requirements to Aboriginal communities in the labour market and economic development LSA.

Project construction workforce hiring would generate direct, indirect and induced employment and income, and create employment opportunities for Aboriginal and local communities. Although most employment and procurement will come to an end after construction, job experience gained through the Project can enhance the capacity of individuals to find other employment.

Wataynikaneyap will continue to share anticipated workforce and equipment requirements information with Aboriginal communities and local economic development corporations. Employment opportunities, and their corresponding job postings, will be communicated to the local and Aboriginal communities in a timely manner.

Community-based Monitoring

Community-based monitoring is the inclusion of First Nation representatives in Wataynikaneyap environmental and social monitoring teams. Its overall objective is to enable First Nation representatives to establish for themselves if EA commitments are being met by the Project.

The ESMP and Section 12.0 Monitoring and Commitments detail monitoring programs to be implemented by Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s). Wataynikaneyap will work to establish a monitoring committee, with representation from Aboriginal communities and Wataynikaneyap. With the formation of this committee, planning for community-based monitoring can begin in detail. A community-based monitoring plan would very broadly include:



involving, in an organized manner, the Aboriginal population in the ongoing monitoring of the Project;

establishment of a monitoring committee with membership of Wataynikaneyap and representative members of the Aboriginal communities;

coordinated development of committee protocols that would include definition of roles and responsibilities for various parties and monitoring data requirements, methods, and schedules;

training in monitoring activities, in some cases training specific to different disciplines for different people;

health and safety training of monitors and the provision of necessary equipment;

timely communication of monitoring activities to Aboriginal participants; and

accessible reporting of monitoring results to Aboriginal communities, Aboriginal groups, stakeholders, and government authorities as required, including in non-technical versions, of monitoring results to the affected population and appropriate authorities.

9.4.4 Workforce Accommodation Management Plan Wataynikaneyap will prepare a Workforce Accommodation Management Plan. This plan will include management measures related to operation of the temporary construction and to address a situation where accommodation for employees is required outside of the temporary construction camps.

The Workforce Accommodation Management Plan will consider processes for:

communication with Aboriginal communities with the respect to the location and scheduling of temporary construction camp construction, operation and decommissioning;

development of a workforce-community accommodation access policy in accordance with local community by-laws

a Code of Conduct for workers, outlining behavior and actions permitted and not permitted while workers are living in the camps

management, monitoring and enforcement procedures for these processes, where required.

A Community Liaison Coordinator will be identified as a Project contact for communities, to whom community members could identify potential project-related health and well-being issues raised by individuals and families. The Community Liaison Coordinator(s) will provide regular updates to communities while operational near a community. Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will have clear, documented procedures to address potential concerns, issues, and incidents.

In the event that accommodation outside of temporary construction camps is required, this plan would outline a process for Wataynikaneyap to work with Aboriginal communities, local government representatives and temporary accommodation providers for:

communication of Project direct and indirect worker requirements and anticipated worker temporary accommodation needs at various construction periods to local government and local accommodation providers;



identification of available accommodation supply potential, particularly during peak construction periods; and

Identification of potential pinch points and constraints in accommodation availability during the construction schedule due to the incremental demand generated by the Project.

The plan would assist with identifying available accommodation supply at times when there may not be capacity at the construction camps to house all workers and contractors. If the result of this analysis suggests need cannot be met through existing temporary housing options, scaling up the capacity of one or all of the construction camps as necessary to meet housing demand may be required.

9.4.5 Worker Code of Conduct Wataynikaneyap will prepare a Worker Code of Conduct outlining behaviours and actions permitted and not permitted by the Project workforce, including while living in construction camps. The worker code of conduct will apply to all persons working on the Project, including contracted employees, at all times, including when they are in transit or visiting local communities.

Measures included in the plan are proposed to include the following:

implement a dry-site policy, establishing that all workplaces will be drug and alcohol-free, including within construction camps and during transit to and from site.

workers will be required to be sober and drug-free at all times while on the job, and in transit to and from site.

implement a zero-tolerance policy towards drug or alcohol possession/usage, smoking in the workplace, harassment or fighting on-site;

provision of workplace and construction camp orientation training, including orientation to job and camp life, construction camp and work site rules and policies, hours of work, rotation schedules, health and safety training, and cultural awareness and cross-cultural training for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal workers (collaboratively with Aboriginal communities);

policies to hold employees responsible and accountable for their actions at all times while on shift, including when they are neither working nor in the construction camp;

prohibit workers and contractors from picking up hitch hikers both in personal and company vehicles;

limiting activities such as: carrying of firearms within the Project footprint, being accompanied by domestic animals (e.g., dogs);

for temporary construction camps located near provincial parks or designated protected areas, Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will post any park rules or regulations the camps and workers will be made aware of them; and

limiting hunting, fishing or trapping activities for non-Aboriginal Project workers while on-shift or at temporary construction camps.

Provision of basic recreational facilities in the construction camp that may include exercise facilities, lounge areas with TVs, access to phone and email to communicate with family, computer facilities, and library/reading resources would further support the implementation of the code of conduct by providing healthy activity options for workers staying on site.



9.4.6 Aboriginal and Stakeholder Engagement Plan 9.4.6.1 Ongoing Engagement

The Project team understands that engagement and communication does not end when the environmental assessment process is completed. Ongoing discussions with Aboriginal communities, Aboriginal groups, and stakeholders will continue following the completion of the ESR and through Project construction and operation and maintenance stages.

Aboriginal communities (most of whom are Wataynikaneyap partners), Aboriginal groups, and stakeholder will be kept up to date on the Project and provide a means of communication with Wataynikaneyap through a number of different mechanisms, including:

Wataynikaneyap has a dedicated Project website located at www.wataypower.ca. This website provides updated information on Wataynikaneyap, the Project, Project map, the environmental assessment process and schedule. This website is updated regularly, as required.

Wataynikaneyap maintains a repository of key Project and ESR documents on the website such as:

financial feasibility and benefits studies;

engagement materials;

notices; and

frequently asked questions document.

The Project website also provides contact details (email and telephone) for senior Wataynikaneyap contacts.

The website also provides a comment submission form that is provided to the Wataynikaneyap Project team for a timely response. Wataynikaneyap has provided a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) on the Project website (http://www.wataypower.ca/faq). This FAQ provides a list of the commonly asked questions during engagement to date, and responses. The general topics include ownership, the Project and the ESR. This will be updated periodically, as required.

A terminology sheet in English, Ojibway and Oji-Cree has been prepared and posted on the Wataynikaneyap website. The sheet included a glossary of common Project and environmental assessment terms.

9.4.6.2 Complaint Resolution Mechanism

Wataynikaneyap will establish a complaint resolution mechanism, to manage any instances where people feel they have grounds for complaint. The Project is expected to manage such situations in a way that addresses Aboriginal and stakeholder concerns promptly and promotes positive relations with them. The complaint resolution mechanism will include:

a simple process to lodge a grievance, ensuring that the process is accessible;

clear roles and responsibilities for persons submitting the grievance, community, municipality, or agency representatives and Wataynikaneyap;

a time frame within which a response to the grievance must be provided;



an appeal process that defines timeframes and roles where a grievance escalates into a complaint;

a system to record all grievances, complaints, how they have been addressed and their resolution; and

means of ensuring feedback for action to relevant Wataynikaneyap staff where systematic grievances are being observed.

9.4.7 Traffic/Road Management Plan A Traffic/Road Management Plan will be developed for the Project prior to start of construction, which will include provisions for new access roads. Wataynikaneyap with their contractor(s) will develop a use management strategy for new access roads d to address the duration of use for the road and what actions are proposed when that use ends, consistent with the MNRF Environmental Guidelines for Access Roads and Water Crossings (MNRF 1990), and Forest Management Guide for Conserving Biodiversity at the Stand and Site Scales (2010a) for review with Aboriginal communities and relevant agencies. An objective of the permanent access network design will be to not allow more access from the south than is currently afforded by existing all season access or winter roads.

The Traffic/Road Management Plan may include the following mitigation measures to minimize potential project effects related to construction traffic:

All drivers will be properly licensed and trained according to specific vehicle type and operating conditions in addition to the hazards of the materials being transported.

Vehicle use will be determined by local ground conditions and access requirements.

All local traffic laws, signs and speed limits will be obeyed.

Any required road user agreements with agencies. For both roadway traffic and marine traffic, the Project is expected to establish codes of conduct for drivers employed or contracted by the Project specifying that speed limits and other rules of the road and waterways be observed.

All Project vehicle operators will be fully aware of, and comply with, Wataynikaneyap’s Project-approved environment, health and safety plans.

During peak traffic periods of the construction stage, the Project is expected to plan activities such that traffic to and from the Project is spread out through the day to the extent feasible and allowed by the final construction schedule.

Traffic on the rights-of-way will follow the posted speed limits, which might vary depending on site-specific conditions.

Vehicular traffic will be confined to approved rights-of-way, workspace and access roads.

Site-specific features of concern will be flagged, or otherwise designated, so that subsequent traffic can avoid these areas.

Recreational and after-hours use of all-terrain vehicles by project personnel will be prohibited.

The Project is being designed to avoid and minimize effects to trap line areas. There may be restricted access during construction stage; however once constructed there will not be any access restrictions under the transmission line except during times of maintenance, as required.



During the construction stage, some access restrictions will be put into place, such as the following:

Temporary access restrictions to the Project footprint during construction at the areas of construction activities. Wataynikaneyap will work with Aboriginal communities where restrictions to access have been implemented to provide access to harvesters.

Design construction routes to avoid access points to parks and protected areas to the extent practical, in engagement with parks and protected area administrators.

Use existing roads where practical to limit disturbance resulting from construction of new access roads.

Typically, there are not access restrictions under transmission lines unless there is:

Risk to power line workers or other employees associated with the project.

Public safety concerns, such as a risk of lines touching people or equipment during work.

Potential for damage to infrastructure including the condition of the 40-m-wide transmission line alignment ROW and maintenance access roads.

Requirements for Operation and Maintenance work activities.

9.4.8 Occupational Health and Safety Plan Wataynikaneyap or their contractor(s) will be required to comply with Occupational Health and Safety Act (Government of Ontario 1990) and any other provincial safety requirements. Wataynikaneyap or their contractor(s) will also be required to have a Health and Safety Plan in place.

An Occupational Health and Safety Plan (OHSP) will be prepared to address all stages of the Project. The OHSP will uphold commitment to a safe working environment for employees, contractors and visitors. The plan will also address all applicable legal requirements and standards relating to health and safety.

The OHSP will set out the framework under which health and safety on the Project site will be managed. The roles and responsibilities of the company, manager, superintendents, supervisors and workers are set out under this plan. The plan will also cover contractors that are on the Project site.

The programs that will be outlined under the plan include provisions for the anticipation, recognition, evaluation and control of physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic and psychosocial factors that may exist at the project site and in other project related activities.

An occupational health and safety training program will also be implemented at the Project site. The objectives of this training program will be to:

provide appropriate orientation and support to all employees, contractors and visitors onsite so that they can act in an appropriately safe manner;

provide ongoing training to employees;

inform at risk employees and contractors to help attain a positive and safe work environment;

instruct managers and supervisors of duties and responsibilities, including applicable legislation, risk communication, labour relations and hazard prevention; and



instruct employees of responsibilities and rights.

9.5 Monitoring and Review of Environmental and Social Management Plan This section outlines the procedures for monitoring and review of the ESMP for continuous improvement and promoting best management practices. The procedures involve monitoring and audits of the ESMP, a corrective and preventive action procedure, and an overall management review. This monitoring and audit procedure allows for Wataynikaneyap to proceed with construction and operation and maintenance of the Project through an adaptive management strategy and to respond and to address unforeseen circumstances through monitoring and through ESMP audits.

9.5.1 Monitoring and Environmental and Social Management Plan Audits Monitoring programs proposed include both compliance monitoring and effects monitoring. Compliance monitoring assesses if the Project has been constructed and operated according to the commitments made in the environmental assessment and the conditions of the Environmental Assessment Act approval. Compliance monitoring will also be associated with specific conditions included in the permits and approvals that are issued by the various agencies. Effects monitoring involves activities designed to verify the prediction of the effects assessment, and to verity the effectiveness of the mitigation measures.

Audits will be undertaken of the ESMP by an appropriately qualified person. The audits will determine whether or not the ESMP has been properly implemented and maintained. An audit report will be prepared identifying any opportunities for improvement and any corrective actions required. The results of the audits will be discussed in Project lessons learnt, tool-box talks, and Project meetings, as appropriate. Minutes from each meeting shall record and assign actions to individuals as appropriate, to track that best management practice continues to be adopted on the Project site and reflected in the ESMP.

Wataynikaneyap has the responsibility for ensuring audit recommendations are undertaken and are used as an input for the management review (Section 9.2.4).

9.5.2 Adaptive Management Strategy Adaptive management strategy is an adaptive approach of monitoring and responsive management and corrective actions to reduce uncertainty of the predicted net effects identified in the environmental assessment. Wataynikaneyap is committed to implementing this strategy during all Project stages through its monitoring program and audits of the ESMP implementation.

The Project mitigation measures, commitments and compliance and effects monitoring will be tracked by Wataynikaneyap throughout the Project. If the environmental monitoring identifies that negative net environmental effects are greater than predicted effects, or the monitoring identifies conditions that are not meeting the commitments in the EA or conditions of the EA approval, then Wataynikaneyap will evaluate the need for corrective action, such as revised mitigation measures. Where the need for revised mitigation measures is required, they will be developed and implemented. Any required corrective actions will be incorporated and addressed through the ESMP audit. This adaptive strategy will provide the foundation to address potential environmental issues early and to correct these issues before they become major problems.



9.6 References

Basu, S., K. Gregory, E. Wiens, and D. Walker. 2017. Utilizing Novel Approach for the Design, Construction and Start-up of North America’s First LEED® Sewage Treatment Plant at the City of Dryden. Accessed February 2017. Available at: http://www.dryden.ca/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx.

CCME (Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment). 1994. Environmental Code of Practice for Aboveground Storage Tank Systems Containing Petroleum Products. PN 1148. August 1994.

City of Dryden. 2017. Landfill Site. Accessed February 2017. Available at: http://www.dryden.ca/city_services/public_works/solid_waste/landfill_site/.

DFO (Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2016. Measures to Avoid Causing Harm to Fish and

Fish Habitat Including Aquatic Species at Risk. Accessed January 2017. http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/measures-mesures/measures-mesures-eng.html.

Environment Canada. 2009. Petroleum Industry Activity Guidelines for Wildlife Species at Risk in the Prairie and Northern Region. Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment Canada, Prairie and Northern Region, Edmonton Alberta. 64p.

ECCC (Environment and Climate Change Canada). 2017. General nesting periods of migratory birds. Available at: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/avoiding-harm-migratory-birds/general-nesting-periods.html. Accessed: January 2018.

ECCC (Environment and Climate Change Canada). 2017b. Breeding bird survey instructions. Available at: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/bird-surveys/landbird/north-american-breeding/instructions.html. Accessed: September 2018.

Government of Ontario. 2000. Technical Standards and Safety Act S.O. 2000. Last amendment: 2010, c. 15, s. 245.

Government of Ontario. 1997. Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. S.O. 1997.

Government of Canada. 1994. Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994. S.C. 1994, c. 22

Government of Canada. 1992. Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act. Last amendment: November 2011.

Government of Ontario. 1990. Occupational Health and Safety Act R.S.O. 1990. Last amendment: 2011, c. 11, ss. 1-18.

Halloran, J., H. Anderson, and D. Tassie. 2013. Clean Equipment Protocol for Industry. Peterborough Stewardship Council and Ontario Invasive Plant Council. Peterborough, ON. Available at: https://www.ontarioinvasiveplants.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Clean-Equipment-Protocol_June2016_D3_WEB-1.pdf. Accessed: October 2018.



iCompass Technologies Inc. 2013. Environmental Services. Accessed February 2017. Available at: http://town.ignace.on.ca/content/environmental-services.

MNR (Ministry of Natural Resources). 2010. Forest Management Guide for Conserving Biodiversity at the Stand and Site Scales. 223 pp.

MNR (Ministry of Natural Resources). 2013. Draft survey protocol for eastern whip-poor-will (Caprimulgus

vociferus) in Ontario. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Species at Risk Branch, Peterborough. Iii + 10 pp.

MNRF (Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry). 2014. Significant Wildlife Habitat Mitigation Support Tool. 533 pp.

MOE (Ministry of Environment). 2014. Code of Practice: Consultation in Ontario’s Environmental Assessment

Process. January 2014.

MOE. 2003. Stormwater Management Planning and Design Manual. Accessed January 2017. https://dr6j45jk9xcmk.cloudfront.net/documents/1757/195-stormwater-planning-and-design-en.pdf

MOE. 1995. Guideline B-6 – Guideline for Evaluating Construction Activities Impacting on Water Resources. Accessed January 2017. https://dr6j45jk9xcmk.cloudfront.net/documents/1128/75-evaluating-construction-activities-impacting.pdf.

Municipality of Sioux Lookout. 2017. Water and Wastewater. Accessed February 2017. Available at: http://www.siouxlookout.ca/en/living-here/water-and-wastewater.asp.

Municipality of Sioux Lookout. 2014. Hidden Lake Landfill Site. Accessed February 2017. Available at: http://www.siouxlookout.ca/en/living-here/hidden-lake-landfill-site.asp.

Northern Waterworks Inc. 2011. Sioux Lookout Water Pollution Control System Annual Performance Report. Accessed February 2017. Available at: http://www.siouxlookout.ca/en/resourcesGeneral/Sioux-Lookout-WPCS-Annual-Performance-Report---2011.pdf.

Tarrant, D. 2018. Personal Communication. Email correspondence from Danielle Tarrant, Acting Regional Land Use Planning Supervisor, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to Brett Thompson, Environmental Assessment Specialist, Golder Associates Ltd., re: Phase 1 and 2 timing restrictions. June 22, 2018.

Township of Pickle Lake. 2011. Landfill Site. Accessed February 2017. Available at: http://picklelake.ca/landfill-site/.

Wright D.G., and G.E. Hopky. 1998. Guidelines for the use of explosives in or near Canadian fisheries waters. Canadian technical report of fisheries and aquatic sciences 2107. DFO, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.

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