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3210 Apsley Street, Terrace, BC, V8G 0J2 | tel 250 635 1494 | fax 250 635 1495 | triton-env.com
Environmental Assessment
&
Environmental Management
Plan
Nass River Bridge Replacement
Highway 37N
Prepared for:
Contact: Kristine Lamble, Environmental Coordinator
BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure 1011 4th Avenue Prince George, B.C. V2L3H9
Prepared by:
Contact: Kevin Doddridge, Project Manager
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page ii
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
Revision History and Approvals
Project Name MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project
Project Number 5555.03
Report Title DRAFT Environmental Assessment Report and Environmental
Management Plan – Nass River Bridge Highway 37N
Document # WPT-4725
Report Author(s) Kevin Doddridge, Rachel Caira, Jane Hauser
Date Version Review Type/Change Reviewed/Changed by
October 26, 2016 1 Peer Review Brent Thiessen, R.P.Bio.,
R.P.F.
October 28, 2016 1 Senior Review Codey Latimer, AScT
October 28, 2016 1 Document Review Marilyn Fransen, B.A.
October 28, 2016 Draft
V.1 Issued for Client Review Kristine Lamble (MOTI)
November 14,
2016
Draft
V.2
Edits Completed as per Client
Review Rachel Caira
May 29, 2017 Draft
V.3
Addition of Environmental
Management Plan to EA Report Kevin Doddridge
June 9, 2017 Draft
V.4
Addition of supplemental
sampling data. Matthew Veikle
July 28, 2017 Draft
V.5
Edits Completed as per Client
Review Codey Latimer, AScT
August 31, 2017 Final V.1 Edits Completed as per Client
Review Jane Hauser, B.Sc, M.R.M.
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page iii
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
Acknowledgements
Triton would like to acknowledge the assistance provided by technician Valbert
Williams (provided by the Gitanyow Hereditary Chiefs Office) and technician Anthony
Moore (provided by the Nisga’a Lisims Government Lands and Resources Office) while
completing the field assessments on July 26-27, 2016. A third technician, Ryan McLean,
was provided by Tsetsaut Ventures Ltd. (Skii Km Lax Ha) however, he was ultimately
unable to join the crew. Additional crew members, all from Triton, included Kevin
Doddridge, David Burton, Grahame Gielens, and Benjamin Hewitt.
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page iv
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
Disclaimer
This report is rendered solely for the use of the Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure (MOTI) in connection with the Nass River Bridge Replacement Project, and
no person may rely on it for any other purpose without Triton Environmental Consultants
Ltd.’s (Triton) prior written approval. Should a third party use this report without Triton’s
approval, they may not rely upon it. Triton accepts no responsibility for loss or damages
suffered by any third party as a result of decisions made or actions taken based on this
report.
This report is based on facts and opinions contained within the referenced documents.
We have attempted to identify and consider relevant facts and documents pertaining
to the scope of work, as of the time period during which we conducted this analysis.
However, our opinions may change if new information is available or if information we
have relied on is altered.
We applied accepted professional practices and standards in developing and
interpreting data obtained by our field measurement, sampling, and observation. While
we used accepted professional practices in interpreting data provided by MOTI or third
party sources we did not verify the accuracy of data provided by MOTI or third party
sources.
This report should be considered as a whole and selecting only portions of the report for
reliance may create a misleading view of our opinions.
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page v
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgements ................................................................................................................ iii
Disclaimer ................................................................................................................................. iv
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Project Description ................................................................................................... 1
2.0 Environmental Assessment ........................................................................................... 2
2.1 Environmental Assessment Boundaries and Study Area ......................................... 2
2.2 Environmental Assessment Methodology ................................................................. 4
2.2.1 Aquatics Assessment ................................................................................................ 4
2.2.2 Vegetation and Ecosystems Assessment .............................................................. 4
2.2.3 Wildlife Habitat Assessment ..................................................................................... 4
2.3 Environmental Assessment Results.............................................................................. 5
2.3.1 Aquatics Assessment ................................................................................................ 5
2.3.2 Vegetation and Ecosystems Assessment ............................................................ 12
2.3.3 Wildlife Habitat Assessment ................................................................................... 15
3.0 Environmental Management Plan ............................................................................. 19
3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 19
3.1.1 Purpose of the EMP ................................................................................................ 19
3.1.2 Reference Documentation ................................................................................... 20
3.2 Roles and Responsibilities .......................................................................................... 20
3.2.1 Owner’s Environmental Representative .............................................................. 21
3.2.2 Contractor ............................................................................................................... 21
3.2.3 Environmental Monitor ........................................................................................... 22
3.3 Regulatory Context .................................................................................................... 25
3.3.1 Environmental Legislation and Regulatory Requirements ................................ 25
3.3.2 Environmental Approvals ...................................................................................... 26
3.3.3 Environmental Best Management Practices ...................................................... 26
3.4 Environmental Settings Summary ............................................................................. 27
3.4.1 Designated Streams and Environmentally Sensitive Areas ............................... 27
3.4.2 Fishery Timing Window ........................................................................................... 28
3.4.3 Wildlife ...................................................................................................................... 28
3.5 Construction Environmental Management Plan Requirements .......................... 29
3.5.1 Detailed Plans ......................................................................................................... 29
4.0 References ................................................................................................................... 38
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Project location map ................................................................................................... 1
Figure 2. Project overview ........................................................................................................... 3
Figure 3. Aquatics ....................................................................................................................... 11
Figure 4. Vegetation ecology map ......................................................................................... 14
Figure 5. Wildlife habitat assessment observations ................................................................ 18
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page vi
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Vascular plant species observed within the LSA and surrounding area ............. 12
Table 2. Key field observations and features .......................................................................... 17
Table 3. Project Contact Information ...................................................................................... 20
Table 4. Potential Contractor required environmental permits. .......................................... 26
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix 1 – Representative Photographs
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page vii
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
LIST OF ACRONYMS/ABBREVIATIONS
ACRONYM MEANING
µS/cm micro-Siemens per centimetre – measure of water conductivity
AQP Appropriately Qualified Professional
BMP Best Management Practice
CCME Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment
CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan
CSA Canadian Standards Association
CSP Corrugated Steel Pipe
CWD Coarse Woody Debris
CWS Canadian Wildlife Service
D Represents the size of the largest particle on the channel bed that will be
moved at channel forming flow levels
D95 The diameter of the bed material particle that is larger than 95% of the
materials in the stream channel
DFO Department of Fisheries and Oceans
DO Dissolved Oxygen
EA Environmental Assessment
ECC Canada Environment and Climate Change Canada
EF Electrofishing
EM Environmental Monitor
EMP Environmental Management Plan
ESA Environmentally Sensitive Area
ESCP Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
GPS Global Positioning System
IPCBC Invasive Plant Council of British Columbia
LSA Local Study Area
MFLNRO Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
mg/L milligrams per Litre
MOE Ministry of Environment
MOTI Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
MOU Memorandum of Understanding
MWLAP Ministry of Water, Land, Air and Parks
NFC No Fish Caught
NTU Nephelometric Units (turbidity units)
OSA Overview Study Area
QEP Qualified Environmental Professional
ROW Right of Way
SARA Species at Risk Act
SDS Safety Data Sheets
SS Standard Specifications
UTM Universal Transverse Mercator
WHA Wildlife Habitat Area
V2 Two-wheel Drive
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 1
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
1.0 Introduction
The BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) is proposing to replace the
Nass River bridge (07773) located along Highway 37 at MOTI Landmark Kilometre
Inventory (LKI) Segment 3720 KM 66.29 and UTM 09V 0490415 6209860. The bridge site is
located approximately 14 km south of Meziadin Junction and approximately 3 km north
of Ellsworth Camp mill site in northern BC (Figure 1). The existing bridge was constructed
in 1972 by the BC Government and is a wood-steel structure with a queen under-truss
on concrete footings. It is approximately 393.5 feet long with a main span of 186 feet as
indicated on the placard north of the bridge site.
Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd. (Triton) was retained by MOTI to provide an
Environmental Assessment (EA) Report and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) in
connection with the proposed replacement of the Nass River Bridge (herein referred to
as ‘the Project’).
Figure 1. Project location map
1.1.1 Project Description
MOTI intends to replace the Nass River bridge (No. 07773) structure with a two lane,
steel plate I-girder, clear span bridge, located approximately 12 m upstream (north) of
the existing bridge (Stantec 2017). The highway approach will also require
approximately 2 km of realignment and upgrades to accommodate the new bridge.
As such, the development corridor that is associated with the Project may extend
beyond the existing highway right of way (ROW) (see Figure 2).
N
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 2
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
2.0 Environmental Assessment
The scope of the EA Report is based on a review of the Environmental Constraint
Mapping for Replacement of the Nass River Bridge (McElhanney 2015), which provided
a high-level environmental overview of the bridge site based on results of a desktop
exercise. This exercise included a screening review for all listed wildlife and ecosystems
with the potential to occur within the Project area and included a summary of fish
known to historically occur in the Nass River. As such, the EA Report focuses on the field
confirmation of that overview information and specifically provides the results of the
following:
Vegetation and ecosystems assessment confirming presence/absence of rare
and endangered vascular plants, plant communities, and their boundaries’
extent;
Aquatics assessment confirming species presence/absence for both fish and
amphibians, habitat quality, and baseline surface water quality; and,
Wildlife habitat assessment confirming presence/absence of features such as
dens and nests.
These are the features and considerations which Triton believes have the greatest
potential to affect design and construction of a replacement bridge structure.
2.1 Environmental Assessment Boundaries and Study Area
The study area focused on the Nass River bridge site, specifically with reference to two
distinct spatial boundaries:
Overview Study Area (OSA)
Local Study Area (LSA)
The OSA was determined based on a conceptual development corridor that extends
approximately 200 m on either side of Highway 37 from MOTI LKI Segment 3720 KM 64.38
OLD LOGGING ROAD to approximately 150 m north of LKI Segment 3720 KM 66.81 RD
TO FISH LADDER). The OSA encompassed 111 ha of total area around the bridge site.
The LSA was provided by MOTI as representing the Project footprint which encompasses
16 ha and was used as the boundary for more time-intensive surveys. Report section 3.0
includes information on which assessments corresponded to each spatial boundary.
The study area boundaries are shown in Figure 2.
490000
490000
491000
491000
492000
492000
6209
000
6209
000
6210
000
6210
000
Nass River Bridge EA0 80 160 240 320 40040
Meters
Figure 2 - Project Overview
LegendHighwayRoadsWatercourse
Local Study AreaOverview Study AreaRiver
WaterbodyWetland
File Path:
Basemap Source:Map Datum:
Bing Maps AerialDate:Project No: 5555
Oct 27, 2016
NAD 1983 UTM Zone 9N
N:\ACTIVE\5555_NassRiverBridge\MXD\5555_Fig2_10112016.mxdScale: 1:13,000
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 4
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
2.2 Environmental Assessment Methodology
Field assessments were conducted on July 26 and 27, 2016 by two Qualified
Environmental Professionals (QEPs) and two environmental technicians. A
representative each from Nisga’a Lisims Government and Gitanyow Hereditary Chiefs
were also included in the assessments and provided field support. Fish sampling was
performed by two QEPs on September 30, 2016 subsequent to initial field assessments.
2.2.1 Aquatics Assessment
Field crews traversed the OSA parallel to the highway in search of features such as
drainages, creeks, channels, streams, wetlands, or other features that would indicate
the potential for perennial or seasonal fish or amphibian habitat, or fluid connectivity to
downstream sensitivities. Features were characterized based on select assessment
criteria and standards in the Fish-stream Identification Guidebook (1998) and
Reconnaissance Fish and Fish Habitat Inventory (2008). Fish habitat quality was
categorized following the guidelines outlined in the Fish-stream Crossing Guidebook
(2012) by assessing rearing, spawning, overwintering, and migration potential for fish
species likely to occur in the OSA. Amphibian habitat was also determined based on
observations or signs of individuals likely to be present in the Project area,
presence/absence of lentic features likely to persist through the breeding season, and
availability of cover within or near lentic features. Crews also identified culvert locations
within the OSA as part of the aquatics component. Fish sampling was performed via
electrofishing at Watercourses 1 and 2 in the vicinity of the highway crossings, to
determine presence/absence of fish (see Figure 3). No fish sampling was performed in
the Nass River main stem as historic fish species information was available.
2.2.2 Vegetation and Ecosystems Assessment
Ecosystem assessments were conducted within the LSA to determine presence or
absence of provincially listed ecosystems, and to determine their boundaries’ extent if
present. Vegetation assessments were conducted to confirm the presence or absence
of rare or endangered vascular plants.
Using satellite imagery, the LSA and surrounding area was broken up into 13 polygons
based on putative changes in vegetation and terrain. Sample plots and visual
inspections were conducted in each polygon along meandering transects, and a
running list of observed plants was created for the entire site and screened for rare or
endangered species. At each of the sample plots, the dominant plant species were
used to describe the site association and identify whether listed ecosystems were
present.
2.2.3 Wildlife Habitat Assessment
A wildlife habitat assessment was performed to confirm presence/absence of valued
habitat features and characteristics, with a focus on preferred habitat for the listed
mammal and avian species identified in McElhanney’s 2015 report. Field crews
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 5
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
traversed the OSA parallel to the highway in search of features such as potential dens,
nest sites, and wildlife trees, and to determine overall suitability of habitat for songbirds,
raptors, and mammals, taking into account forest age and type, proximity to features
such as wetlands, streams, cliffs, and rivers, as well as considering levels of existing
disturbance. Specific focus was given to the existing Nass River bridge structure as
concerns had been expressed by others that species at risk may be using the structure
for roosting or nesting.
2.3 Environmental Assessment Results
This section provides a summary of the results of the EA, separated by discipline.
2.3.1 Aquatics Assessment
Three watercourses were identified and assessed within the OSA including two Nass
River tributaries and the Nass River itself. Watercourse and survey information for these
features is presented in tabular format below and also in Figure 3.
2.3.1.1 Fish and Fish Habitat
Watercourse and Survey Information – Watercourse 1
Gazetted Name N/A Location UTM 09V 490090 6209908
Study ID Watercourse 1 Date/Time of Survey July 27, 2016; 14:00
Watershed Code N/A Waterbody Identifier N/A
Access V2 Length Surveyed (m) 150
Crew KD/DB Agency C151 (Triton)
Watershed
Sequence
Watercourse 1, Nass River, Pacific Ocean
Watercourse Characteristics
Watercourse 1 was characterized as an NCD-w, a non-classified drainage exhibiting wetland
characteristics. It was not identified on BC Freshwater Atlas but was included in Figure 3 based
on field observations to show its location. Within the length surveyed, the morphology of the
drainage was highly variable, and no continuous scour or alluvium was observed. Upstream of
the highway crossing, the feature was an impounded wetland with substrates consisting
predominantly of fines. Instream and over-stream vegetation was abundant and the coarse
woody debris observed throughout this area was functional. Gradients were less than 1%
upstream of the highway and depths in the wetland were greater than 0.5 m in some areas.
Water levels within the impoundment area upstream of the highway crossing were observed to
historically fluctuate as fringe areas were observed to be dewatered at time of survey. The
600 mm CSP identified at the crossing is likely able to convey water under the highway at higher
flows. The structure was not conveying flows at time of survey given low wetland water levels.
The damaged and partially buried culvert inlet likely impedes flow. The culvert outlet drains into
a smaller wetland complex which was dry at time of survey. Gradients increased southward to
5% for approximately 40 m until the dry drainage became narrowly channelized with numerous
instantaneous drops greater than 2 m in height, before leading over a near vertical falls/cliff into
the Nass River approximately 20 m below.
Avg. Channel Width N/A Flow Stage Low
Avg. Wetted Width N/A Bed Material (Dom.) Fines
Avg. Gradient (%) 2.5 Bed Material (Sub.) Cobble
Residual Pool Depth None D95 (cm) N/A
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 6
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
LWD Functionality Good D (cm) N/A
LWD Distribution Frequent Avg. Bankfull Depth (m) N/A
Total Cover Good cover for amphibians Primary Cover Type CWD, instream
vegetation
Left Bank N/A Right Bank N/A
Morphology Variable as stated above
Stream
Classification
NCD-w
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen 6.37 mg/L Conductivity 53 µS/cm
Temperature 16.8°C Turbidity Low
pH 5.17 Comment Sampled at site WQ1
Fish Sampling
Sample Method EF Effort 440s
Species Captured NFC Length Sampled 50 m
Comments Sampling occurred upstream of the highway crossing within wetted areas;
no fish were captured. Temperatures were relatively high and DO levels
were low; unfavourable conditions for rearing salmonids. No connectivity
for fish exists between the crossing location and the Nass River.
Sample Method EF Effort 438s
Species Captured NFC Length Sampled 100 m
Comments Sampling occurred upstream of the highway crossing within wetted areas;
no fish were captured.
Sample Method MT Effort 364 hours
Species Captured NFC Length Sampled na
Comments 11 traps set upstream of road and 2 traps were set downstream of the
road. Traps were baited and let to soak overnight, no fish were captured
and no amphibians were captured. Fish-stream Crossing Guidebook Rank – Habitat at Crossing Critical/Important/Marginal None
Spawning Habitat None – no fish access from Nass River
Overwintering
Habitat
None – no fish access from Nass River
Rearing Habitat None – no fish access
Migration Habitat None – gradients and falls downstream of the highway crossing preclude
fish access within the OSA
Additional
Comments
N/A
Watercourse and Survey Information – Watercourse 2
Gazetted Name N/A Location UTM 09V 0491752 6208804
Study ID Watercourse 2 Date/Time of
Survey
July 27, 2016; 09:45 am
Watershed Code 500-462000 Waterbody
Identifier
00000NASR
Access V2 Length Surveyed
(m)
250
Crew KD/DB Agency C151 (Triton)
Watershed Watercourse 2, Nass River, Pacific Ocean
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 7
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
Sequence
Watercourse Characteristics
Watercourse 2 was characterized as an S2 stream, though only two channel width
measurements were obtained. At the crossing, an un-embedded 1,800 mm CSP at 5% gradient
conveys flow under the highway into a 1.4 m deep plunge pool downstream. The CSP outlet was
perched by 0.45 m at time of survey which presents a seasonal obstruction to upstream fish
migration, particularly for juveniles. There was evidence of turbulent flows at the culvert outlet
that cause significant scouring downstream. The inlet has been previously rip-rapped and road
surface coverage is approximately 5 m higher than the culvert inlet.
Approximately 30 m upstream from the crossing, the stream is confined in a ravine and
substrates were cobble-dominated with boulders throughout. Small patches of gravel were
identified as well, but no significant accumulations were observed that would support spawning
by salmonids. Coarse woody debris was abundant and evenly distributed in the channel,
causing entrainment of substrate and small < 0.30 m falls features which obstruct upstream
migration at low flow levels. Minor undercutting and abundant overstream and instream
vegetation (moss) were observed contributing to cover, however low flows at time of survey and
lack of depth limited cover for adult fish in this area. Stream is 3% gradient upstream from the
crossing. Mean depth was 15 cm, residual pool depth was 0.35 m, and total pool depth was
0.40 m. At approximately 150 m upstream from the crossing, the channel became less defined
as bank scour and avulsions in this location contributed to channel splitting and shallow depths
(< 0.1 m deep) and pool habitat became solely fast riffle habitat. Although the stream in this
location had an abundance of cover and instream features for fish it was limited by depth and
flow.
Approximately 180 m upstream from the crossing, the stream channel diminishes and becomes
the wetland complex identified by McElhanney (2015) as a Wildlife Habitat Area. This area is
likely excellent amphibian breeding habitat as depths and cover was significant, though none
were observed. Riparian areas had plenty of woody debris and moss cover for terrestrial forms.
Fish rearing and overwintering habitat is likely limited by water quality in this area, though depths
and cover were suitable, particularly for non-salmonid species. Triton did not survey the entire
Wildlife Habitat Area identified by McElhanney (2015) as it was largely outside of the OSA.
Downstream from the crossing, the stream becomes a large wetland complex maintained by
beaver activity, evidenced by multiple dams and chewed stumps. It was greater than 1 m deep
in central areas at time of survey and capable of supporting fish and amphibians. One
Peamouth Chub (PCC) was captured downstream of the crossing at the culvert plunge pool.
Avg. Channel Width 6.0 m Flow Stage Moderate
Avg. Wetted Width 2.5 m Bed Material
(Dom.)
Cobble
Avg. Gradient (%) 1.5 Bed Material (Sub.) Boulder
Residual Pool Depth 0.35 m D95 (cm) 45
LWD Functionality Excellent D (cm) 25
LWD Distribution Abundant Avg. Bankfull
Depth (m)
0.8
Total Cover Low upstream of the
crossing, and high
downstream of crossing.
Primary Cover
Type
CWD, boulder,
overhanging and instream
vegetation, deep pool
downstream of crossing
Left Bank Sloped, boulder and
alluvial, mixed, mature
Right Bank Sloped, boulder and
alluvial, mixed, mature
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 8
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
forest forest
Morphology Sinuous, partially coupled and occasionally confined upstream from the
crossing. Downstream from the crossing the stream becomes a wetland
complex.
Stream
Classification
S2
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen 9.22 mg/L Conductivity 41 µS/cm
Temperature 12°C Turbidity Clear
pH 6.75 Comment Sampled ~150 m upstream
from the highway crossing
at WQ 3
Fish Sampling
Sample Method EF Effort 994s
Species Captured PCC Length Sampled 100 m
Comments Sampling occurred upstream and downstream of the highway crossing. No
fish were captured upstream of the crossing and one PCC was captured
below the crossing in the culvert plunge pool. Fish-stream Crossing Guidebook Rank – Habitat at Crossing Critical/Important/Marginal Important
Spawning Habitat None – lacks significant accumulations of gravels suitable for spawning and
drainage exhibits turbulent flows
Overwintering
Habitat
Low – immediately upstream of the crossing given shallow residual pool
depths, moderate potential for overwintering in the wetland complex
located 180 m upstream from the crossing
High – downstream of the crossing in the deep wetland complex with
connection to the Nass River
Rearing Habitat Moderate – While upstream of the crossing was limited by shallow depths,
downstream of the crossing was a large stagnant wetland which would be
productive for juvenile rearing
Migration Habitat Moderate – seasonally limited by flows and obstructed by perched culvert
outlet; however, no permanent barriers to migration were observed during
the assessment
Additional
Comments
Historical fish use documented upstream from the crossing therefore the
crossing represents a corridor between upstream habitats and the Nass
River
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 9
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
Watercourse and Survey Information – Nass River
Gazetted Name Nass River Location UTM 09V 490415 6209860
Local Name K'alii Aksim Lisims Date/Time of Survey July 27, 2016; 0700 am
Watershed Code 500-000000 Waterbody Identifier 00000LNAR
Access V2 Length Surveyed (m) 50
Crew KD/DB Agency C151 (Triton)
Watershed
Sequence
Nass River, Pacific Ocean
Watercourse Characteristics
The Nass River is a 400 km long S1 river that flows from the Coast Mountains to the Pacific Ocean
at Gingolx.
Avg. Channel Width 100 m (aerial photo
estimate)
Flow Stage Moderate
Avg. Wetted Width 80 m (aerial photo
estimate)
Bed Material (Dom.) N/A
Avg. Gradient (%) <1% Bed Material (Sub.) N/A
Residual Pool Depth N/A D95 (cm) N/A
LWD Functionality Low D (cm) N/A
LWD Distribution Few Avg. Bankfull Depth (m) N/A
Total Cover High Primary Cover Type Deep pool
Left Bank Vertical bedrock, mixed
mature forest
Right Bank Vertical bedrock,
mixed mature forest
Morphology Large entrenched, coupled channel.
Stream
Classification
S1
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen 12.69 mg/L Conductivity 130.1 µS/cm
Temperature 9.1°C Turbidity Clear
pH 7.13 Comment Taken upstream of the
crossing at WQ2
Fish Sampling
Sample Method Not sampled Effort N/A
Species Captured N/A Length Sampled N/A
Comments N/A Fish-stream Crossing Guidebook Rank – Habitat at Crossing Critical/Important/Marginal Critical
Spawning Habitat Unknown – Substrates and bed material were not assessed at the crossing
site.
Overwintering
Habitat
High – large perennial channel
Rearing Habitat High – large perennial channel
Migration Habitat High – large perennial channel
Additional
Comments
The Nass River is an important fisheries corridor and is known to support
many fish species of recreational, commercial and aboriginal importance.
2.3.1.2 Amphibians
A number of areas were identified to be of high value to amphibians, particularly
western toad due to the presence of suitable habitat. Those areas are highlighted in
yellow in Figure 3. While amphibians were not observed during the assessment, the
potential is high for western toad to occur which is a Blue-listed species of concern
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 10
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
identified by McElhanney (2015) to be present within the OSA. Columbia spotted frog
(Rana luteiventris), wood frog (Lithobates sylvaticus), northwestern salamander
(Ambystoma gracile), western long-toed salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum),
and roughskin newt (Taricha granulosa) also have the potential to occur within the OSA
(E-Fauna BC 2016). These species generally rely on a variety of aquatic habitats to carry
out their life histories, particularly for breeding. Timing of the survey was such that
amphibian species were likely to be present in their terrestrial phases. Terrestrial phases
are more difficult to locate as individuals are inconspicuous and usually most active
during low-light conditions.
2.3.1.3 Additional Features
Two culverts were identified (both 600 mm CSPs) south of the bridge at UTM 09V 490900
6209410 and 09V 490808 6209658 but were not assessed further as they were not fish
streams and appeared to be installed for drainage. Numerous other small diameter
corrugated plastic pipes had been installed in the road prism for drainage on the hill
immediately to the south of the bridge.
490000
490000
491000
491000
492000
492000
6209
000
6209
000
6210
000
6210
000
Nass River Bridge EA0 80 160 240 320 40040
Meters
Figure 3 - Aquatics
LegendCulvertCapturedFISS Data PointHistorical Data PointWater Quality Site
Watercourse CrossingHighwayRoadsWatercourseHigh Value AmphibianHabitat
Local Study AreaRiverWaterbodyWetland
File Path:
Basemap Source:Map Datum:
Bing Maps AerialDate:Project No: 5555
Oct 27, 2016
NAD 1983 UTM Zone 9N
N:\ACTIVE\5555_NassRiverBridge\MXD\5555_Fig3_10272016.mxdScale: 1:13,000BT
CCCCGCCTCHCMCOCSU
DVLLSUMWPKPCCRBRSC
SKSTTSB
Bull TroutSculpinsSlimy SculpinCoastal Cutthroat TroutChinook SalmonChum SalmonCoho SalmonLargescale Sucker
Dolly VardenLampreysLongnose SuckerMountain WhitefishPeamouth ChubPink SalmonRainbow TroutRedside Shiner
Sockeye SalmonSteelheadThreespine Stickleback
Fish Code Common Name Fish Code Common Name Fish Code Common NameFISH SPECIES
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 12
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2.3.2 Vegetation and Ecosystems Assessment
During the field surveys, 93 individual vascular plant species were observed within the
survey area (see Table 1). No at-risk plants, including the Blue-listed plant species
described by McElhanney (2015) were identified within the survey area.
A small patch (approximately 25 m by 25 m) of the Blue-listed ‘black cottonwood –
subalpine fir/devil’s club’, site series Fm03 ecosystem was identified within the survey
area at UTM 09V 490806 6209275. It is located between the Nass River and Highway 37,
approximately 700 m southeast of the bridge and approximately 200 m west of the
highway (see Figure 4). This ecosystem is located far enough away from the bridge that
it is unlikely to be affected by any potential construction.
Table 1. Vascular plant species observed within the LSA and surrounding area
Scientific Name Common Name Abies lasiocarpa subalpine fire Acer glabrum Douglas maple Achillea millefolium yarrow Agropyron sp. wheatgrass Alnus crispa ssp. sinuata sitka alder Amelanchier alnifolia saskatoon Anaphalis margaritacea pearly everlasting Aralia nudicaulis wild sarsaparilla Aruncus dioicus goat's beard Athyrium filix-femina lady fern Betula papyrifera paper birch Carex macloviata thick-headed sedge Carex rostrata beaked sedge Castilleja miniata common red paintbrush Centaurea maculosa spotted knapweed Chimaphila umbellata prince's-pine Cicuta douglasii Douglas' water-hemlock Claytonia sibirica Siberian miner's-lettuce Clintonia uniflora queen's cup Cornus canadensis bunchberry Cornus stolonifera red-osier dogwood Dactylis glomerata orchard grass Dryopteris expansa spiny wood fern Epilobium angustifolium fireweed Equisetum arvense common horsetail Erigeron sp. daisy/fleabane Frageria vesca wood strawberry Galium aparine cleavers Geum macrophyllum large-leaved avens Goodyera repens dwarf rattlesnake-plantain Gymnocarpium dryopteris oak fern Hieracium caespitosum meadow hawkweed Hieracium laevigatum smooth hawkweed Hylocomium splendens step moss Juncus ensifolius dagger-leaved rush Leucanthemum vulgare oxeye daisy Linnea borealis twinflower Lycopodium annotinum stiff clubmoss
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 13
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Scientific Name Common Name Lycopodium
complanatum
ground-cedar Lycopodium
dendroideum
ground-pine Lysichiton americanum skunk cabbage Matricaria discoidea pineapple weed Medicago lupulina black medic Melilotus alba white sweet-clover Mentha arvensis wild mint Menziesia ferruginea false azalea Nuphar polysepalum yellow pond-lily Oplopanax horridus devil's club Orthilia secunda one-sided wintergreen Ozmorhiza chilensis mountain sweet-cicely Paxistima mysinites false box Phalaris arundinacea reed canary grass Phleum pratense timothy Picea engelmannii x
glauca
hybrid white spruce Pinus contorta var. latifolia lodgepole pine Plantago macrocarpa Alaska plantain Platanthera dilatata white big-orchid Populus tremuloides trembling aspen Populus trichocarpa ssp.
trichocarpa
black cottonwood Potamogeton sp. pondweed Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern Pyrola asarifolia pink wintergreen Ranunculus occidentalis western buttercup Ribes glandulosum skunk currant Ribes lacustre black gooseberry Rosa nutkana Nootka rose Rubus parviflorus thimbleberry Rubus pedatus five-leaved bramble Rubus spectabilis salmonberry Salix sp. willow Sambucus racemosa red elderberry Shepherdia canadensis soopolallie Smilacina racemosa false Solomon's-seal Sorbus scopulina western mountain-ash Sparangium sp. bur-reed Spiraea douglasii ssp.
menziesii
pink spirea Streptopus amplexifolius clasping twistedstalk Streptopus roseus rosy twistedstalk Symphoricarpos albus common snowberry Taraxacum officinale common dandelion Thalictrum occidentale western meadow-rue Tiarella trifoliata three-leaved foamflower Trifolium aureum golden clover Trifolium pratense red clover Tsuga heterophylla western hemlock Urtica dioica stinging nettle Vaccinium
membranaceum
black huckleberry Vaccinium ovalifolium oval-leaved blueberry Veratrum viride indian hellebore Viburnum edule highbush-cranberry Vicia americana American vetch Viola adunca early blue violet Viola palustris marsh violet
Na
s sR
i ve
r
490000
490000
490500
490500
491000
491000
6209
500
6209
500
6210
000
6210
000
Nass River Bridge EA0 40 80 120 160 20020
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Figure 4 - Vegetation Ecology Map
LegendBlack Cottonwood-Subalpiine Fir/Devil'sClub (Blue-listed ecosystem)Local Study AreaVegetation Survey
File Path:
Basemap Source:Map Datum:
OrthophotoDate:Project No: 5555
Aug 31, 2017
NAD 1983 UTM Zone 9N
N:\ACTIVE\5555_NassRiverBridge\MXD\5555_Fig4_08312017.mxdScale: 1:6,000
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
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2.3.3 Wildlife Habitat Assessment
A variety of ecosystems were observed within the OSA including zonal upland habitat,
cliff habitat, wetland/swamp habitat, riparian habitat, and disturbed areas, providing
preferred habitat for the mammal and avian species identified in McElhanney (2015) to
be of concern which included:
Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos),
wolverine, luscus subspecies (Gulo luscus),
fisher (Pekania pennanti),
little brown myotis (Myotis lucifugus),
moose (Alces americanus),
great blue heron, fannini subspecies (Ardea herodias fannini),
northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis), and,
barn swallow (Hirundo rustica).
2.3.3.1 Mammal Species
A number of mapped Grizzly bear Wildlife Habitat Areas (WHAs) exist in proximity to the
Project area, with the southern portion of one WHA overlapping with the LSA. However,
upon review of the spatial data for this particular WHA, and provided Project designs
do not change, it is not anticipated clearing and grubbing will occur within the WHA
polygon. Furthermore, the small portion of the mapped WHA adjacent to the Project is
a steep, forested cliff area with no streams or otherwise unique features or attributes
that would be considered high value habitat for Grizzly bears. Access to the Nass River
mainstem is limited due to the steep, and it is expected that Grizzly bear would likely
prefer streams and tributaries where food supply is more readily accessible during
seasonal periods for salmon foraging. Therefore, provided standard mitigation measures
for construction waste management and site housekeeping are implemented, it is not
anticipated that Grizzly bear will be affected by proposed construction activities.
The zonal upland habitats observed within the OSA contained a variety of understorey
vegetation including berry-producing shrubs such as high-bush cranberry, black
huckleberry, oval-leaved blueberry, and Saskatoon berry which are valued by Grizzly
bear during the summer months. The proximity of these berry patches to the Nass River,
which also provides a seasonal food source (salmonids) for grizzly bear, likely enhances
habitat capability in this area. However the river morphology within the OSA is
considered to be within an entrenched and confined channel with no side- or off-
channels in which salmon could easily and readily be obtained as a food source.
Therefore, while the river and adjacent riparian areas provides habitat for Grizzly bear, it
would be somewhat limited considering the morphology of the river as compared to
other adjacent habitats in the Nass River valley.
Moose utilize a broad range of boreal, mountainous, and coastal habitats to carry out
their life histories including riparian, wetland/swamp, and upland habitats, as well as
disturbance areas. Those habitats were identified within the OSA. Browse species such
as red-osier dogwood, willows, and alder were observed in moderate to high stem
densities within riparian, upland areas, and disturbed areas, as well as aquatic
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 16
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vegetation species in the wetland areas which are considered preferred food sources
for moose. Moose tracks were observed within the OSA in various locations during the
assessment.
Wolverine and fisher both have the potential to be present within the upland and
riparian habitats observed within the OSA as these areas exhibited significant
understorey complexity, particularly in vegetation polygons 8 and 12 where large
cottonwood trees and downed timber were observed in proximity to riverine areas.
Potential roosting sites for little brown myotis were observed within tree cavities in the
OSA; however, no individuals were observed. The cliff habitat in the vicinity of the
bridge site was assessed during early morning conditions to determine whether these
bats could be observed entering any crevices or cracks in the rock, and none were
observed. The bridge superstructure was also closely examined using binoculars and
spotting scopes to determine whether roosting was occurring, and no individuals were
observed. It is not likely that large hibernacula are present within the OSA or adjacent
areas.
While bear scat, moose tracks, potential den sites for mustelids, and potential roosting
sites for little brown myotis were observed within the OSA, these ecosystems do not
provide habitat that is proportionally more important than adjacent areas. The
proximity of the site to Highway 37 also likely limits the importance of the OSA to
mammal species.
2.3.3.2 Avian Species
Cliff ecosystems and adjacent riverine areas within the OSA likely provide foraging
habitat for avian biota such as songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, and wading birds, as well
as security cover during movements and migrations. Wetland swamp and riparian
habitats within the OSA likely provide breeding and foraging habitat for songbird and
waterfowl species with affinity for aquatic environments. Several bird species were
observed during the assessment including dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis), American
robin (Turdus migratorius), Pacific wren (Troglodytes pacificus), common merganser
(Mergus merganser), and bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). One songbird nest
was observed at UTM 09V 0490371 6209895 but was deemed inactive as no chicks or
eggs were observed in the nest and debris had accumulated with no new material
present.
No listed species including goshawk, great blue heron, or barn swallow were observed
during the assessment. The entire bridge structure could be effectively viewed from
multiple vantage points, and while abundant roosting habitat was observed under the
bridge for various species, the bridge shakes significantly when heavy loaded transport
trucks cross, likely acting as a deterrent to roosting. As barn swallows are highly
gregarious, colonies would be obvious if present, but were not observed in the field.
Habitats dominated by large mature deciduous and coniferous trees, particularly those
found in vegetation polygons 1, 2, 7, 8, and 12, would provide available nesting habitat
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 17
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for raptors and great blue heron; however no raptor nests were observed during the
assessment.
2.3.3.3 Key Observations/Features
Table 2 presents a summary of habitat features and observations made during the field
assessment. The location of these features has been mapped in Figure 5.
Table 2. Key field observations and features
ID Location UTM Comments
WT1 09V 0490157 6209931 Wildlife tree in advanced stage of decay
WT2 09V 0490595 6209662 Bat roosting potential in balsam poplar tree
Nest1 09V 0490371 6209895 Inactive songbird nest: debris in nest, no new material in nest,
located approximately 3 m in hemlock tree on steep slope;
CMT1 09V 0490229 6209935 Culturally modified tree identified and flagged previously by
others.
Den1 09V 0490316 6209948 Tree well, potential den site. No hair found, not recently used.
Den2 09V 0490557 6209724 Potential mustelid den.
Den3 09V 0490617 6209664 Complex of small shrew sized burrows found throughout area.
Den4 09V 0491027 6209335 Small burrow under decaying log (~15 cm in diameter); area
contained numerous small shrew sized burrows.
Sign1 09V 0491044 6209341 Moose tracks observed
Sign2 09V 0491610 6209153 Moose tracks observed
Sign3 09V 0490734 6209454 Moose tracks observed
Sign4 09V 0490781 6209335 Bear scat observed, evidence of bear digging in rotten snag.
490000
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491000
491000
492000
492000
6209
000
6209
000
6210
000
6210
000
Nass River Bridge EA0 80 160 240 320 40040
Meters
Figure 5 - Wildlife HabitatAssessment Observations
LegendWildlife HabitatPointHighwayRoads
WatercourseLocal Study AreaOverview StudyArea
RiverWaterbodyWetland
File Path:
Basemap Source:Map Datum:
Bing Maps AerialDate:Project No: 5555
Oct 27, 2016
NAD 1983 UTM Zone 9N
N:\ACTIVE\5555_NassRiverBridge\MXD\5555_Fig5_10272016.mxdScale: 1:13,000
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3.0 Environmental Management Plan
3.1 Introduction
As a component of the preliminary environmental investigation for the Project, Triton
has included this EMP, as described within the following sections.
3.1.1 Purpose of the EMP
The EMP has been developed for MOTI to provide guidance and recommendations for
achieving environmental stewardship and compliance during the construction of the
Project, building upon the MOTI 2016 Standard Specifications (SS) for Highway
Construction, specifically Section 165 Protection of the Environment (MOTI SS Section
165).
The EMP is the primary reference document for general environmental protection
measures, and was developed in consideration of the Gitanyow Huwilp Recognition
and Reconciliation Agreement between the Gitanyow Nation and the Province of
British Columbia. However, it is supplemental to the environmental provisions and
requirements stipulated in the terms and conditions of relevant permits, licenses,
specifications and approvals as they have been or will be acquired. This EMP should be
considered a living document and is subject to change and revision reflective of
discoveries made and if additional information or requirements become available
relevant to the environmental scope of work.
It is expected that the successful construction Contractor will prepare a Construction
Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) which will provide detailed site- and activity-
specific work procedures, environmental controls and mitigation measures, and will be
signed off as their commitment to undertake and monitor work in a manner which
minimizes impacts to Designated Streams and Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs).
The Contractor’s CEMP may use this EMP as a reference and may expand on general
recommendations provided herein. Since CEMPs are dynamic documents, it is
expected that revisions/addendums by the Contractor may be required as
construction progresses or as revisions are made to this EMP. Specific information on
CEMP requirements can be found in Section 3.5 of this document.
This EMP is specifically intended to:
Describe proposed construction activities as they relate to interaction with
environmental resources and sensitivities;
Clearly outline roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in construction;
Identify Designated Streams and Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs);
Provide regulatory context with respect to proposed activities with potential to
interact with environmental sensitivities, including an overview of industry
standards and Best Management Practices (BMPs) including Fishery Timing
Windows, and Environmental Approvals; and,
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Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 20
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Prescribe components to be addressed within the Contractor’s CEMP, including
specific detailed plans and environmental procedures required.
3.1.2 Reference Documentation
This EMP was prepared utilizing the following documents:
‘Draft Environmental Assessment Report, Nass River Bridge – Highway 37N’.
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd. for MOTI, November 2016.
‘Standard Specifications for Highway Construction, Volumes 1 and 2’. Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure, July 2016.
‘Archaeological Impact Assessment of the Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure's Proposed Nass River Bridge Replacement and Approaches
Project’. Golder Associates, July 2016.
‘Environmental Constraint Mapping for Replacement of the Nass River Bridge’.
McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd., October 2015.
‘100% Draft Final, Bridge Concept Design Report, Project No. 37195-0001,
Highway 37 – Nass River Bridge No. 07773 Replacement & Approaches’. Stantec
Consulting Ltd., January 2017.
‘Gitanyow Huwilp Recognition and Reconciliation Agreement, Part 2: Gitanyow
Lax’yip Land Use Plan’. Gitanyow Nation and the Province of British Columbia,
March 2012.
3.2 Roles and Responsibilities
All parties involved in construction have the responsibility to ensure that Project design,
construction work, and related operations are conducted in a manner which minimizes
disturbance or destruction of environmental resources; and are in strict compliance
with federal, provincial, regional and municipal legislation, regulations, permits,
approvals, authorizations, and guidelines, including the protocols listed in this EMP and
the Contractor’s CEMP. A Project contact list is presented in Table 4 below.
Table 3. Project Contact Information
Role Organization Personnel Contact
Owner
Ministry of
Transportation
and
Infrastructure
Reid Drummond,
Project Manager
Tel: (250) 852-5907
Cell: (250) 299-1494 Email: [email protected]
Kristine Lamble,
Environmental
Coordinator
Tel: (250) 5654190
Cell: (250) 617-8292 Email: [email protected]
Site Representative TBD
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Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 21
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Owner’s
Environmental
Representative
Triton
Environmental
Consultants Ltd.
Kevin Doddridge,
Project Manager
Tel: (250) 635-1494
Cell: (250) 631-7099 Email: [email protected]
Contractor TBD TBD TBD
Environmental
Monitor TBD TBD TBD
3.2.1 Owner’s Environmental Representative
An Appropriately Qualified Professional (AQP) may be assigned at the discretion of the
Owner to act as the Owner’s Environmental Representative. Responsibilities will include,
but are not limited to:
Assisting the Owner in reviewing the Contractor’s required CEMP to ensure that it
meets the requirements of this EMP and other regulatory requirements;
Providing advice, as requested, to the Contractor and their EM in regards to
planning and scheduling construction activities;
Assisting the Owner in reviewing all environmental monitoring reports once
construction commences and upon Project completion;
Assisting the Owner with liaising with stakeholders and concerned parties to
notify them of upcoming construction activities;
The acquisition of Environmental Approvals as required; and,
Conducting site visits bi-weekly, or as needed during instream works and/or works
involving Designated Streams and/or Environmentally Sensitive Areas.
3.2.2 Contractor
The successful construction Contractor (to be determined) shall be responsible for the
following, as it pertains to environmental management:
Hiring of an Appropriately Qualified Professional (AQP) to act as the
Environmental Monitor (EM) for the Project (see MOTI SS 165.01.02 and 165.02).
Planning and scheduling construction activities, in connection with advice from
the EM and the Owner’s Environmental Representative, to ensure the avoidance
or absolute minimization of environmental impacts. The Contractor should be
able to identify and anticipate issues that may result from changing
environmental conditions (i.e., stream flow levels) which may result in adverse
effects.
Development of a CEMP which describes plans and procedures for site-specific
environmental protection in the context of an informed construction approach
and methodology. The CEMP will include relevant provisions as described in
Section 3.5 of this EMP, as well as all requirements and stipulations included in the
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 22
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terms and conditions of relevant permits, licenses, and approvals, and will be in
compliance with the MOTI SS (see section 165.01.01 and 165.02.02).
The Contractor performing the work shall arrange a pre-work meeting (and any
other lead correspondence) with the EM and any subcontractors to ensure all
parties involved in construction understand the environmental requirements and
commitments of the Project.
The Contractor will be responsible for the actions of its employees and
subcontractors, including any contravention of these EMP specifications,
Contractor’s CEMP, and applicable legislation. As such, the Contractor is
responsible for ensuring that environmental protection measures are instituted
throughout all construction areas.
Provide adequate training to staff on environmental issues and furnish equipment
and supplies to administer their CEMP to the satisfaction of the Owner;
Contractors will notify the EM immediately upon discovery of any hazardous
conditions, property, or equipment within or immediately adjacent to the Project
area. However, it will be the Contractor’s responsibility to take all necessary
precautions against injury to the environment and to persons or damage to
property from such hazards until corrected by the responsible party.
The Contractor shall be required to modify or halt any aspect of construction or
maintenance that the Owner, the EM, and/or regulatory agencies determine
poses or have the potential to pose an environmental concern.
The acquisition of permits, licenses, and authorizations as required, as per
Sections 3.3.2 of this EMP.
3.2.3 Environmental Monitor
The EM shall be an AQP as described in the MOTI SS Section 165.01.02(a). The
Contractor is responsible for retaining an EM for the Project.
3.2.3.1 Experience
The EM should be suitably experienced, at minimum, in the following:
Environmental legislation, regulations, guidelines, and environmental agency
review and assessment processes;
Industry standards and best management practices (BMPs) for construction
projects;
Preparation and implementation of CEMPs and environmental procedures
related to construction in Designated Streams and ESAs;
Preparation, implementation and monitoring of erosion and sediment control
plans, structures, and devices;
Spill response and effects monitoring;
Fish and amphibian survey and salvage techniques;
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Identification of rare plant species, rare plant communities, and invasive plant
species;
Clearing and grubbing activities and associated mitigation (i.e., pre-clearing bird
nest surveys and raptor nest surveys); and,
Site reclamation.
3.2.3.2 Role
The EM shall be retained by the Contractor and their role will be clearly defined in the
Contractor’s CEMP as supported by the MOTI SS Section 165.02. Generally, the EM
represents the interests of the Project on all environmentally related matters. The EM will
be required to be present on the Project site for certain construction activities, as
follows:
All activities involving fuel handling or transportation;
All activities involving handling or transportation of hazardous materials;
Vegetation clearing and grubbing (including riparian vegetation);
Debris removal;
Culvert removal, maintenance, and installation;
Riprap and/or rock installation;
Instream works, including installation and deactivation of the stream isolation;
and,
All construction activities occurring in or adjacent to delineated environmentally
sensitive areas, or outside of the Project boundary/footprint.
These activities listed above pose a higher risk of having adverse effects on the
environment, have associated mitigation measures that the EM is responsible for, or
involve instream works and/or other environmentally sensitive areas where full-time
monitoring is required.
3.2.3.3 Responsibilities
The EM could be responsible for the following activities:
Communicating requirements of the EMP to the Contractor throughout Project
scoping, design, and during site work to ensure all construction work activities are
planned, developed, and implemented to conform to applicable regulations,
guidelines, and BMPs, including the specifications within this EMP and the
Contractor’s CEMP;
Distributing the EMP and CEMP as necessary and maintaining current and
available copies on-site at all times, including copies of applicable
Environmental Approvals;
Attendance at the work site throughout the duration of the Project to provide
representation on matters related to environmental management, including
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being present at key meetings when environmental protection measures are
discussed;
Continual evaluation of Project activities for adherence to the EMP and CEMP,
and providing adaptive recommendations if conditions change or unforeseen
circumstances occur;
Issuance of “Stop Work Order” if specific activities result in non-conformance with
the EMP, Project-specific environmental commitments, or applicable laws and
regulations;
Assisting with environmental emergency response including follow-up, and the
completion and submission of incident reports as required;
Liaising with agencies, on behalf on the Contractor, in the event of an
environmental incident or the development of unforeseen site conditions with
the potential to result in adverse impacts;
Conducting regular inventories of spill response kits, and perform site and
equipment inspections;
Conducting presence/absence surveys of rare plant species, rare plant
communities, and invasive plant species in any areas where clearing is to occur
outside of the Project footprint;
Installing and decommissioning of stream isolation measures, as required;
Installing and decommissioning of amphibian fencing, as required;
Performing fish and/or amphibian salvage associated with instream works;
Performing pre-clearing bird nest surveys associated with clearing during
breeding bird window;
Conducting in-situ water quality monitoring;
Overseeing site cleanup and restoration activities; and,
Preparation of environmental reporting deliverables, to include:
o Weekly environmental monitoring reports, with site representative
photographs. These reports will cover a reporting period of each
calendar week (i.e., Sunday – Saturday), and will be submitted to the
Owner by the Wednesday following. Reports should include locations
of work, descriptions of work progress, any environmental issues and/or
incidents, and any survey/salvage data and/or water quality data
collected during that reporting period.
o A final environmental monitoring report to be submitted to the Owner
within 30 days of Project completion. This report should summarize the
weekly reports, describe how the Contractor followed applicable
environmental protection requirements, legislation, regulation, and
BMPs to avoid adverse effects to the environment, summarize the
survey/salvage data and water quality data collected, and provide
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evidence that all permit conditions were fulfilled and permit reporting
requirements were met. A final close-out site visit and follow up report
should be performed to provide assurance that the Project site was
returned to the Owner in accordance with the Reclamation Plan.
3.2.3.4 Authority
In the event the EM determines that some aspect of the work is creating, or will result in,
a substantial adverse effect on environmental values or resources on or adjacent to the
Project site, the EM may issue a “Stop Work Order” for that aspect of the work
potentially having an adverse effect. This aspect of work will not be allowed to resume
until conditions have been determined favourable by the EM to continue work and/or
there is a plan in place to address the adverse effect or critical path that would result in
an adverse effect.
3.3 Regulatory Context
3.3.1 Environmental Legislation and Regulatory Requirements
Due to the nature of planned construction activities potentially required to complete
the Project, a number of federal and provincial regulation and legislation may apply to
the Project.
Federal environmental protection legislation potentially applicable to the proposed
Project works may include, but not be limited to:
Canada Species at Risk Act (SARA 2002);
Canada Migratory Bird Act (1994);
Canada Wildlife Act (1973);
Fisheries Act (1985, revised 2012);
Fisheries Protection Policy Statement (2013); and,
Navigation Protection Act (1985, c. N-22).
Provincial Acts and Regulations that may be applicable to the proposed Project may
include, but not be limited to:
Environmental Management Act (BC 2003);
Hazardous Waste Regulation (BC 2009);
Heritage Conservation Act (1996);
Water Act (1996);
Waste Management Act ;
Water Sustainability Act (BC 2014);
Water Sustainability Regulations (BC 2016);
Weed Control Act (BC 1996);
Wildlife Act (BC 1996); and,
Spill Reporting Regulation (BC 2008).
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3.3.2 Environmental Approvals
The MOTI has submitted and is in receipt that the Project meets the requirements of a
Notification for Changes In and About a Stream under Section 11 of the Water
Sustainability Act for:
Road Crossing Culvert – Construction/Maintenance/Removal
o Watercourse 1 associated culvert upgrade works.
Clear Span Bridge - Construction/Maintenance/Removal
o Nass River new bridge construction and existing bridge removal works.
3.3.2.1 Construction Contractor Permit Requirements
Project activities may require the contractor to obtain environmental permits and/or
licences listed below in Table 4 to facilitate works, depending on construction methods
employed.
Table 4. Potential Contractor required environmental permits.
Permit/Approval/
Notification Project Element
Governing
Agency
Permit Application
Responsibility
General Wildlife
Permit (should
amphibian
salvage be
required)
Access Road
Construction; Waste
Disposal Areas; Culvert
Works; Bridge Works; Low
Drain Installation;
Infrastructure
Decommissioning
MFLNRO Contractor
Water Use
Approval
Water use for
construction purposes
such as road dust
suppression.
MFLNRO Contractor
3.3.3 Environmental Best Management Practices
All Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the protection of the environment will be
carried out as per the MOTI SS, or as dictated by the relevant permits, licenses and
approvals.
Guidance documents that may be applicable to the Project are listed below, but may
not be all inclusive based on proposed construction methodologies by the Contractor,
or changes in Project scope. The Contractor must ensure that all appropriate BMPs are
taken into consideration, whether provided below or not, and that sufficient measures
are employed.
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 27
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Land Development Guidelines for the Protection of Aquatic Habitat (Chilibeck et
al.1993);
Develop with Care 2014: Environmental Guidelines for Urban and Rural Land
Development (MOE 2014);
Standards and Best Practices for Instream Works: A Users’ Guide to Working In
and Around Water (MOE 2004, updated 2009);
National Guide to Erosion and Sediment Control on Roadway Projects
(Transportation Association of Canada 2005);
Reclamation and Environmental Protection Handbook for Sand, Gravel and
Quarry Operations in British Columbia (MOTI & Natural Resources Canada 1995);
Manual of Control of Erosion and Shallow Slope Movement (MOTI 1997);
A Field Guide to Fuel Handling, Transportation and Storage (MWLAP 2002);
Measures to Avoid Causing Harm to Fish and Fish Habitat (DFO 2013);
Best Practices for Managing Invasive Plants on Roadsides (MOTI & IPCBC 2010);
A Compendium of Wildlife Guidelines for Industrial Development Projects in the
North Area, BC (MFLNRO 2014);
Guidelines for Raptor Conservation during Urban and Rural Land Development in
BC (MOE 2013);
Approved Water Quality Guidelines (MOE 2017);
Working Water Quality Guidelines for British Columbia (MOE 2015);
Canadian Environmental Quality Guidelines for the Protection of Aquatic Life
(CCME 2014); and,
Emergency Preparedness and Response (CSA 2003), CSA Z731-03 R2009 for
Environment Canada.
3.4 Environmental Settings Summary
3.4.1 Designated Streams and Environmentally Sensitive Areas
For purposes of clearly identifying Designated Stream and Designated Environmentally
Sensitives Areas pertaining to the Project, the follow description is provided.
All and any areas below the “High Water Mark” as defined with the MOTI SS Section
165. This specifically includes, but is not limited to:
Watercourse 1, a non-classified drainage exhibiting wetland characteristics that
drains into the Nass River; and,
The Nass River.
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Watercourse 2 is excluded from the list of Designated Streams and ESAs as it occurs
outside of the LSA and will not be impacted by construction activities.
3.4.2 Fishery Timing Window
As discussed in Section 5.10 of the Bridge Concept Design Report (Stantec 2017),
instream works are not anticipated for the replacement of the Nass River Bridge as the
new structure will be a ‘clear span’ crossing of the Nass River. Therefore, no Fishery
Timing Window will be applicable to works associated with the bridge replacement.
As Watercourse 1 is considered ‘non-fish bearing’, no Fishery Timing Window will be
applicable for proposed culvert upgrade works.
3.4.3 Wildlife
3.4.3.1 Avian
As described in Section 2.3.3.2, the number of ecosystems present within and adjacent
to the Project area provide foraging, breeding, and nesting habitat for a variety of
avian species. Section 34 of the Wildlife Act protects all bird nests when
active/occupied, and provides year-round protection to the nests of five species of
raptors and the great blue heron. Furthermore, Section 33 of the Species at Risk Act
states that the residence (i.e., nest) of a wildlife species that is listed as endangered or
threatened cannot be damaged or destroyed, including the nests of goshawk and
great blue heron. No listed species were observed during field assessments; however,
there is the potential for both goshawk and great blue heron to occur within the Project
area (McElhanney 2015).
Pre-clearing bird nest surveys must be conducted year round for raptor nests, and within
the breeding bird window of April 15 – August 51 for the nests of other passerine species
to aid in the protection of birds and avoid contravention of the Wildlife Act (ECC
Canada 2017). Further details are provided in the Clearing and Grubbing Plan, Section
3.5.1.4.
3.4.3.2 Mammals
Four mammals of concern – Grizzly bear, moose, wolverine and fisher – were noted to
have potential for occurrence around the Project area. Potential for encounter was
based on habitat preferences that exist in the nearby forested area and the motility of
the animal within these habitats. A WHA was identified adjacent to the Project area,
however, no impacts to wildlife are anticipated if standard mitigation measures are
1 The breeding bird window period has been developed based on the General Nesting Periods
of Migratory Birds in Canada (Environment Canada 2016) for nesting zone A2: Forest, with an 11-
20% of species nesting timing.
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implemented. General mitigation measures for wildlife management are discussed in
Section 3.5.1.10.
3.4.3.3 Amphibians
A number of areas were identified to be of high value to several amphibians,
particularly western toad due to the presence of suitable habitat. Pre-construction
amphibian surveys will be conducted prior to works within wetted areas, Designated
Streams and ESAs, as described in the Instream Works Plan, Section 3.5.1.3.
3.5 Construction Environmental Management Plan Requirements
The Contractor shall provide a CEMP to the owner for acceptance and approval, in
alignment with the MOTI SS Section 165.02.02. The CEMP will be inclusive of all elements
relevant to complete the scope and duration of the Project, including but not limited
to:
A clear description of how the work will comply with environmental protection
requirement of the Contract, including but not limited to the MOTI SS, Special
Provisions, and Environmental Approvals.
A summary that clearly demonstrates the Contractor’s understanding of the
specific environmental issues included with the work, including applicable
Environmental Approvals.
A description that demonstrates the Contractor’s understand of roles and
responsibilities held by species parties involved in the Project.
Clear identification of the process, including duration and sequence of each
task, leading to the receipt of Environmental Approvals, and the linkage
between the process and the Project schedule.
Contact names, positions and telephone numbers of individuals responsible for
elements of the CEMP and Environmental Agency contacts.
To ensure all personnel involved on the Project are aware and understand
environmental commitments, the Contractor will provide Project orientation to all
personnel prior to individuals participating in the Works. Project orientations must meet
requirements outlined within the MOTI SS Section 165.02.04.
3.5.1 Detailed Plans
The CEMP shall provide specific plans that describe how works shall be conducted in
respect to certain activities and/or resources. Plans shall include Environmental
Procedures as described within MOTI SS Section 165.01(i), that detail task specific
measures/steps to be taken to ensure protection of the environment, and in particularly
Designated Streams and Environmentally Sensitive Areas. Detailed plans to be included
at a minimum in the CEMP are introduced in the below sections.
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3.5.1.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan
As specified in above sections, the Contractor will retain the services of an
Environmental Monitor as defined within the MOTI SS Section 165.02. The EM will be
responsible for providing weekly reports to the Owner during construction on behalf of
the Contractor. Reports shall include details on construction activities in relation to the
environment, specifically addressing this EMP, the CEMP, and any terms or conditions of
Environmental Approvals. This may include, but is not limited to:
Description of measures to be implement on site within the Construction Waste
Management Plan;
Review and status update of storage and handling of hazardous materials;
Update on activities completed within Designated Streams and Environmentally
Sensitive Areas;
Summary of equipment Inspection records and practices;
Summary of bird nest surveys;
Summary of fish and amphibian salvages; and,
Update on implementation and function of erosion and sedimentation controls.
Water Quality
The Contractor’s CEMP should contain a water quality section which will clearly
describe how water quality and quantity will be measured, monitored, and maintained
during and following construction to ensure conditions meet the BC Approved Water
Quality Guidelines (2015) for Protection of Aquatic Life.
The following best practices are recommended and will be applied to construction
activities to avoid harm to fish or fish habitat:
Ensure that all deleterious substances including fuels, paint, primers, blasting
abrasives, rust solvents, degreasers, concrete/grout, or other chemicals do not
enter any drainage or watercourse;
Immediately implement spill response procedures outlined in the Environmental
Incident Response and Reporting Plan upon discovery of a spill;
Manage water to prevent silt or high turbidity water entering any watercourse;
Establish any soil stockpiles above the high water mark of any watercourse;
Regularly inspect and repair all erosion and sediment control measures and
structures throughout construction (details to be included in the Erosion and
Sediment Control Plan);
Immediately stabilize any banks or shoreline disturbed during construction by
revegetating as soon as practicable;
Ensure only clear rock is used near any drainage or watercourse – no acid
generating rock is to be used on site;
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Ensure only clean machinery is used on site and that all machinery is free of
leaks;
Wash, refuel and service any machinery on stable ground at least 100 m from
any watercourse;
Turbidity will be measured upstream and downstream of each work site in a
frequency proportionate to the scale of construction. The British Columbia
Ambient Water Quality Guidelines (Criteria) for Turbidity (Caux et al. 1997) will be
adhered to.
Clear Flows (background < 8 NTU)
Change from background of 8 NTU at any one time for a duration of 24 hours in all
waters during clear flows or in clear waters; and,
Change from background of 2 NTU at any one time for a duration of 30 days in all
waters during clear flows or in clear waters.
Turbid Flows (background > 8 NTU)
Change from background of 5 NTU at any time when background is 8-50 NTU during
high flows or in turbid waters; and,
Change from background of 10% when background is greater than 50 NTU at any
time during high flows or in turbid waters.
3.5.1.2 Air Quality and Dust Control Plan
Vehicle and equipment emissions and fugitive dust dispersal are the primary sources of
negative air quality associated with construction activities. In order to reduce the
effects, the following mitigation strategies are proposed.
Emission Reduction Strategies
Implementation of innovative and practical idle reduction strategies are encouraged
to reduce emissions from the Project, as per MOTI SS Section 165.16.02. Idle reduction
strategies fall into four groups:
Location of staging areas to minimize impact of emissions;
Idling time reductions (construction vehicles and equipment);
Outreach and communication (site orientations and tailgate meetings); and,
Idle reduction technologies.
Dust Control Strategies
Dust control is anticipated to be required as construction will likely involve drilling and
blasting for a significant portion of the Project. Dust control strategies must be carried
out in accordance with MOTI SS Section 165.16.03. Should temporary water use be
required for dust suppression it must be carried out under applicable Water
Sustainability Act Permits (Section 10(1)) Short Term Temporary Water Use. All dust
control strategies will not result in sedimentation to any surface watercourses. Should
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chemical dust suppressants be required, they will be limited to travelled road surfaces
and will not be applied within 30 m of any surface watercourse crossing or other ESA.
3.5.1.3 Instream Works Plan
The CEMP shall include an Instream Works Plan that will detail how works will be
completed in Designated Streams and ESAs. The Instream Works Plan will be in
alignment with the MOTI SS Sections 165.10 and 165.13.04. Environmental procedures
will also be required for certain construction tasks, including but not limited to:
Bridge Construction and Removal;
Watercourse Isolation; and,
Culvert Removal and Installation.
Pre-construction amphibian surveys shall be conducted prior to works within wetted
areas, or Designated Streams and ESAs. Should amphibians be detected, they shall be
salvaged and relocated away from the construction area, and into similar habitat
areas under an applicable provincial permit for amphibian salvage and relocation. All
applicable wildlife collection permits must be kept on-site at a location known to
Ministry and Contractor representatives in the event of regulatory or
compliance/enforcement agency site visit.
There is to be no water below the high water mark (HWM) on the Nass River.
3.5.1.4 Clearing and Grubbing Plan
A Clearing and Grubbing Plan must be prepared as part of the CEMP. Prior to initiation
of vegetation clearing, pre-construction surveys for bird nests shall be completed if
activities are to occur within the breeding bird window for nesting zone A2 (forest) of
April 15 – August 5 to aid in the protection of birds and avoid contravention of the
Wildlife Act (ECC Canada 2017). A sweep for raptor nests and nests of wildlife species
listed as endangered or threatened should be conducted prior to tree clearing
activities regardless of the time of year. Should any of these nests be found, the EM
should report the nest to the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) and follow the
recommended minimum buffers for nesting raptors.
Clearing activity may occur up to the limits outlined in the Project drawings, or as
specified by the Ministry Representative and in accordance with Sections 165 and 200
of the MOTI SS. Clearing limits should be visibly staked or flagged by the Contractor prior
to commencing clearing operations.
The Clearing and Grubbing Plan should lay out the schedule for clearing activity and
discuss BMPs to reduce the likelihood of negative environmental impacts as a result of
clearing. Erosion and sediment control measures should be implemented immediately
following clearing and grubbing activity. Care will be taken to protect and preserve all
vegetation outside of the clearing boundary; if disturbed, the Contractor will replace
such vegetation to the satisfaction of the Owner’s Environmental Representative.
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3.5.1.5 Concrete Management Plan
Concrete products are harmful to fish and aquatic organisms. Cast-in-place concrete
must be isolated from sensitive areas during the curing period to avoid increases in
water alkalinity and resulting pH. A Concrete Management Plan shall detail how
construction activities involving the use of concrete or cement will be conducted, and
identify mitigation measures that will be implemented to ensure the protection of
surrounding Designated Streams and ESAs. The Concrete Management Plan should be
in alignment with requirements in the MOTI SS Section 165.14.04.
3.5.1.6 Invasive Plant Management Plan
No invasive plants were identified during field assessments; however, detection may
have been hindered due to the timing of field surveys. As part of the CEMP, an Invasive
Plant Management Plan must be generated outlining mitigation measures intended to
reduce the potential of invasive plant or noxious weed introduction or spread, and the
plan must be in accordance with the MOTI SS Section 165.15. BMPs to ensure that
invasive plants and/or noxious weeds are not spread or propagated during
construction could include:
Discussion of management of noxious weeds and invasive plant measures
during the on-site kickoff meeting;
Washing all equipment clean of soils, seeds, and plant parts prior to entering the
project site at the start of the Project;
Inspecting all equipment for soil/seeds/plant material when the Project is
completed;
Minimizing soil disturbance and revegetating disturbed areas as quickly as
possible;
If possible, locating laydown and storage areas away from infested areas; and,
Ensuring mulch sources are certified weed free and are visually inspected prior
to application to ensure no invasive plant seeds are present. Hay shall not be
used as mulch unless it is from a local area demonstrated to be free of invasive
species.
3.5.1.7 Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) in accordance with the National Guide to
Erosion and Sediment Control on Roadway Projects (Transportation Association of
Canada 2005) and MOTI SS Section 165.04. The main objective of the ESCP is to
minimize the introduction of sediment to watercourses adjacent to and within the site
and to surrounding vegetation. Erosion and sedimentation have the potential to cause
adverse environmental impacts if not effectively addressed and controlled. The
Contractor will be responsible for planning, scheduling, and performing the work in such
a manner that the quality of surface water flowing from the site meets provincial water
quality guidelines (Caux et al. 1997).
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At a minimum, the ESCP must address the following items:
Construction schedule for proposed activities as they pertain to the ESCP and
construction staging including anticipated duration of construction;
A description of procedures used to limit the potential for erosion and sediment
production including estimate of all work areas, description of equipment to be
used in construction and staging of operations;
A detailed description of site specific measures for runoff and drainage
management;
A detailed description of the site specific mitigation measures and design
information for erosion prevention and control for example sizing of culverts,
ditches or sediment/detention ponds, silt fence specifications, and a description
of ditching and berming;
A schedule identifying various sloped areas by station and the dates in which
they will be protected using temporary and permanent revegetation measures
such as hydroseeding;
A detailed description of mitigation measures for ensuring acceptable water
quality and quantity at points of discharge to watercourses including size and
specifications for any proposed water treatment facilities;
A key plan and drawings, in suitable detail of the site and proposed mitigation
measures and applicable construction practices;
A written commitment of on-site equipment (i.e., water pumps) and materials
(i.e., silt fence, hay bales, rock armoring, ditch breakers) for erosion sediment and
drainage control to deal with emergency situations that may arise;
A written commitment of on-site equipment and staff to handle any fish salvage
and transfer operations if required; and,
A description of the specific monitoring procedures prior to, during and after
completion of construction activities at the Project site.
3.5.1.8 Construction Waste Management Plan
A Construction Waste Management Plan will be prepared as part of the CEMP to
address construction waste (including any hazardous waste and explosives waste) and
will be in accordance with MOTI SS Section 165.14. The plan will outline procedures for
how waste will be temporarily stored on-site, removed and disposed of off-site. All waste
must be disposed of at an approved facility that meets all federal, provincial, regional
and municipal bylaws and regulations. The Construction Waste Management Plan must
also contain measures for disposal of any acid generating rock potentially generated
by construction activities.
Contaminated Waste
In the event that contaminated material is produced or discovered on site, the
Contractor shall implement a Stop Work Authority in the specific area and notify the EM
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and Owner. Measures to ensure the containment and proper disposal of any such
contaminated waste must be outlined within the Construction Waste Management
Plan, in accordance with the MOTI SS Section 165.14.03.
3.5.1.9 Environmental Incident Response and Reporting Plan
An Environmental Incident Response and Reporting Plan shall be provided in the
Contractors CEMP that describes strict environmental procedures to be followed in the
event of an environmental incident, including but not limited to a hazardous substance
release/spill/leak during construction.
Spill Contingency Response Procedures
The Environmental Incident Response and Reporting Plan will include Spill Contingency
Procedures. These procedures will be used to guide spill prevention and emergency
response on-site. The procedures will be based on requirements outlined in the MOTI
2016 Standard Specifications 165.13.02 through 165.13.04, and 165.14.01 through
165.14.05. Procedures will also clearly detail how environmental incidents will be
reported, what information will be required, and roles and responsibilities of applicable
personnel.
Potential spill sources include but are not limited to:
Leaking or ruptured fuel tanks;
Spills during refueling of vehicles and equipment; and,
Leaks from equipment or ruptured hoses.
General Measures for Spill Prevention and Containment
Spill prevention and containment will be achieved by application of the following
measures:
All equipment used within 5 m of any surface watercourse will be equipped with
bag type spill kits. At each surface watercourse crossing there will be at least
one fully stocked drum type spill kit available for timely deployment.
Hazardous or toxic products will not be stored within 30 m of any surface
watercourse and no washing of equipment is allowed within the riparian zone of
any watercourse.
Standard spill kits will be available at all refueling, lubrication, repair locations,
and on each piece of heavy equipment. These spill kits will be capable of
capturing 125% of potential spill volumes.
All on-site personnel will be trained in hazardous materials storage, handling
requirements, and effective spill response.
Generating refueling procedures for heavy equipment that will not impact any
surface water drainages in case of a release of hydrocarbons.
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All fuel brought onto site will be stored within tidy tanks or in approved
secondary containment and will be clearly labelled.
Fuel and lubricant containers will be securely stored to prevent movement with
lids secured during transport.
During periods of inactivity, all fuels lubricants and other toxic substances will be
stored in locked containers.
All waste fuel or products such as filters will be stored in spill proof containers and
discarded at an appropriate facility as directed by the Ministry Representative.
Spill Kit Contents
All spill kits on-site will be stocked by a commercial vendor and include standard kit
contents for fuel, oil, and coolant spills. Any spill response materials used will be
documented and replaced prior to works restarting.
Safety Data Sheets
The Contractor will ensure that a copy of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemical
substances being used on-site will be maintained on-site in a clearly marked binder.
These sheets will be consulted in the event of a spill or leak to determine any potential
human health and environmental risks associated with the product.
Spill Cleanup Practices and Procedures
For spills to land, contain the material and collect it using applicable absorbents.
Separate and transfer the absorbents (spill kit materials) and containment material
(contaminated soils) to drums or other inert sealed containers. Clearly label drums with
their contents and store in a secured area prior to being hauled off-site for disposal by a
certified hauler and location authorized to dispose of contaminated materials and soils.
For spills to water, absorbent booms will be placed to prevent the spilled product from
flowing downstream. Absorbent materials will be used to recover the floating product.
Once the product is recovered and the spill abated, contain spill materials in drums or
other inert containers, clearly label the containers. Store the containers in a secure
location for off-site disposal by a certified hauler at a location authorized to dispose of
contaminated materials.
3.5.1.10 Wildlife Management Plan
Wildlife management measures include but are not limited to:
Reporting all wildlife observations on or adjacent to the work site to the EM.
Upholding a clean and well maintained work site, free of food waste and other
potential attractants, as should be clearly described within the CEMP, specifically
the Construction Waste Management Plan.
Adhering to safe speed limits and yielding to wildlife to minimize wildlife vehicle
collisions.
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Feeding and/or harassment of wildlife will not be tolerated.
Should an increase in wildlife activity be observed, the EM may implement additional
mitigation measures.
3.5.1.11 Reclamation Plan
The Contractor’s CEMP should include a Reclamation Plan which will describe the
proposed methodology and timing for site recovery and closeout following Project
completion. Some general measures to include in this Plan are:
Removal of surplus materials and wastes from the work site; including but not
limited to temporary erosion and sediment control measures (e.g. sediment
fencing).
Prevent the spread of invasive species on equipment by conducting equipment
inspections prior to the equipment leaving site.
Grade and re-contour sites to their original condition, wherever possible. Restore
natural drainage patterns.
Rip or scarify soils in areas that have been compacted.
Re-establishment of ground cover on disturbed areas as soon as possible. Apply
a weed-free mix of grasses and legumes suitable to the climate conditions,
where available. All seed mixtures must be approved by the Owner’s
Environmental Representative prior to use.
Minimize traffic and disturbance during reclamation by avoiding the use of large
pieces of equipment, and conducting by hand as much of the work as possible.
De-commissioning of temporary access roads/trails including grading and cross-
ditching to minimize erosion.
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4.0 References
Canadian Council of Minister of the Environment. 2014. Canadian Environmental
Quality Guidelines for the Protection of Aquatic Life.
http://www.ccme.ca/en/resources/canadian_environmental_quality_guidelines/.
Accessed April 2017.
Canadian Standards Association. 2003. Emergency Preparedness and Response: A
National Standard of Canada. CAN/CSA-Z731-03 (R2009).
Caux, P.-Y., D.R.J. Moore, and D. MacDonald. 1997. Ambient water quality criteria for
turbidity, suspended and benthic sediments in British Columbia: Technical appendix.
Prepared for British Columbia Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks, Water Quality
Branch, Victoria, BC. As referenced in the Canadian Council of Ministers of the
Environment. 2002. Canadian Water Quality Guidelines for the Protection of Aquatic
Life – Total Particulate Matter.
Chilibeck, B., Chislett, G., and Norris, G. 1993. Land Development Guidelines for the
Protection of Aquatic Habitat. Prepared for Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Library/165353.pdf. Accessed January 2017.
[DFO] Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 2013. Measure To Avoid Causing Harm to Fish and
Fish Habitat. http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/measures-mesures/index-eng.html.
Accessed April 2017.
[ECC Canada] Environment and Climate Change Canada. 2017. General Nesting
Periods of Migratory Birds in Canada. http://www.ec.gc.ca/paom-
itmb/default.asp?lang=En&n=4f39a78f-1#_04. Accessed January 2017.
E-Fauna BC. 2016. http://ibis.geog.ubc.ca/biodiversity/efauna/ Accessed October
2016.
Fisheries Inventory Summary System. 2016 Fish Inventory Data Queries. Ministry of
Environment. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fish/fidq/queries.html Accessed October 2016.
Fish-stream Identification Guidebook – 2nd ed. 1998. Ministry of Forests and Range.
Fish-stream Crossing Guidebook – revised edition. 2012. Ministry of Forests, Lands, and
Natural Resource Operations.
Golder Associates. 2016. Archaeological Impact Assessment of the Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure's Proposed Nass River Bridge Replacement and
Approaches Project. Permit 2016-0097 Final Report. Prepared for MOTI by Adrienne
Marr. Terrace, BC.
McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd. 2015. Environmental Constraint Mapping for
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 39
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
Replacement of the Nass River Bridge. Prepared for MOTI by Kate Dillon and Brad
Pollard. Terrace, BC.
[MOE] Ministry of Environment. 2013. Guidelines for Raptor Conservation During Urban
and Rural Land Development in British Columbia.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/bmp/raptor_conservation_guidelines_2013.
pdf. Accessed January 2017.
[MOE] Ministry of Environment. 2014. Develop with Care 2014: Environmental Guidelines
for Urban and Rural Land Development in British Columbia.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/bmp/devwithcare/. Accessed January
2017.
[MOE] Working Water Quality Guidelines for British Columbia. 2015.
http://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/air-land-
water/water/waterquality/wqgs-wqos/bc_env_working_water_quality_guidelines.pdf.
Accessed February 2017.
[MOE] Ministry of Environment. 2017. Habitat Wizard. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/
habwiz. Accessed January 2017.
[MOE] Ministry of Environment. 2017. British Columbia Approved Water Quality
Guidelines: Aquatic Life, Wildlife & Agriculture.
http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/water/water-
quality/water-quality-guidelines/approved-water-quality-guidelines. Accessed January
2017.
[MOF] Ministry of Forests. 1998. Fish-stream Identification Guidebook 2nd Edition. Forest
Practices Code of British Columbia. Victoria, BC.
[MFLNRO] Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resources Operations. 2014. A
Compendium of Wildlife Guidelines for Industrial Development Projects in the North
Area, British Columbia. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/eirs/bdp/
biodiversity_publications_index/ bdpStaticPageC.htm. Accessed January 2017.
[MOTI] Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. 1997. Manual of Control of Erosion
and Shallow Slope Movement.
https://www.th.gov.bc.ca/publications/eng_publications/environment/references/Man
_Control_Erosion.pdf. Accessed April 2017.
[MOTI] Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. 2016. Standard Specifications for
Highway Construction Volume 1: Section 165 – Protection of the Environment.
[MOTI] Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. 2016. Standard Specifications for
Highway Construction Volume 1: Section 200 – Clearing and Grubbing.
MOTI Nass River Bridge Replacement Project August 2017
Final EA Report and Environmental Management Plan Page 40
Prepared by Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd.
[MOTI and NRC] Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and Natural Resources
Canada. 1995. Reclamation and Environmental Protection Handbook for Sand, Gravel
and Quarry Operations in British Columbia. http://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/driving-
and-transportation/transportation-infrastructure/contracting-with-the-
province/documents/16604-2017/t3_-_rclmhandbook1995.pdf. Accessed April 2017.
[MOTI and IPCBC] Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and Invasive Plant
Council of BC. 2010. Best Practices for Managing Invasive Plants on Roadsides.
https://www.th.gov.bc.ca/publications/eng_publications/environment/ManagingInvasi
vePlants.pdf. Accessed April 2017.
[MWLAP] Ministry of Water, Land, and Air Protection. 2002. A Field Guide to Fuel
Handling, Transportation & Storage.
http://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/waste-management/industrial-
waste/industrial-waste/oilandgas/fuel_handle_guide.pdf. Accessed April 2017.
[MWLAP] Ministry of Water, Land, and Air Protection. 2004 (updated 2009). Standards
and Best Practices for Instream Work.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/bmp/iswstdsbps march2004.pdf. Accessed
January 2017.
Resource Inventory Standards Committee. 2008. Reconnaissance Fish and Fish Habitat
Inventory: Standards and Procedures. Report prepared by BC Fisheries Information
Services Branch for the Resource Inventory Standards Committee. Version 2.0
Stantec. 2017. Bridge Concept Design Report: Project No. 37195-0001 Highway 37 – Nass
River Bridge No. 07773 Replacement and Approaches. Prepared for MOTI by Laurie
Christiansen. Kamloops, BC.
Transportation Association of Canada (TAC). 2005. National Guide to Erosion and
Sediment Control on Roadway Projects. Ottawa, ON.
www.triton-env.com Page 1
Photo 1. View of Nass River bridge looking northbound from rest area.
Photo 2. View of Nass River bridge looking southbound.
www.triton-env.com Page 2
Photo 3. View of highway approach looking southbound with bridge in
the background.
Photo 4. View of rest area south of the Nass River bridge.
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Photo 5. View of watercourse 1 upstream of the highway crossing
looking upstream.
Photo 6. View of watercourse 1 upstream of the highway crossing
looking downstream.
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Photo 7. View of watercourse 1 downstream of the highway crossing
looking downstream.
Photo 8. View of culvert inlet at watercourse 1.
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Photo 9. View of overgrown culvert outlet at watercourse 1.
Photo 10. View showing one of many dry falls barriers observed
downstream from the highway crossing on watercourse 1.
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Photo 11. View of steep ravine through which watercourse 1 (dry at
time of survey) would convey flows to Nass River below
Photo 12. View of WQ2 site where Nass River baseline water quality
was obtained. View looking downstream taken from right bank with
bridge in background showing typical habitat conditions.
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Photo 13. View looking northbound at bridge structure.
Photo 14. View looking southbound at bridge structure.
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Photo 15. View showing roosting conditions under the bridge structure.
Photo 16. View of large active wasp nest on bridge structure seen
through spotting scope.
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Photo 17. View looking northbound at disturbed area and BC Hydro
right-of-way adjacent to the highway.
Photo 18. View of culvert inlet at watercourse 2 looking downstream.
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Photo 19. View looking upstream at watercourse 2 taken from culvert
inlet.
Photo 20. View looking upstream at watercourse 2 taken ~30 m
upstream from the highway crossing.
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Photo 21. View of wetland (beginning of WHA) at approximately 180 m
upstream from the highway crossing with watercourse 2.
Photo 22. Additional view of wetland at approximately 180 m
upstream from the highway crossing with watercourse 2.
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Photo 24. View looking upstream at culvert outlet at watercourse 2.
Photo 23. View from highway of watercourse 2 culvert outlet showing
wetland complex downstream from the crossing.
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Photo 25. View of plunge pool taken from watercourse 2 culvert outlet
looking downstream.
Photo 26. View showing wetland habitat conditions approximately 100
m downstream from the highway crossing with watercourse 2 at WQ5.
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Photo 27. Inlet view of one of two 600 mm drainage culverts identified
south of the highway.
Photo 28. View of CMT identified and flagged by others, located at
UTM 09V 0490229 6209935.
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Photo 29. View of zonal habitat conditions in vegetation polygon 9.
Photo 30. View of black huckleberry shrub typically found within the
zonal upland habitats assessed.
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Photo 31. View of possible den site (Den1).
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Photo 33. View of wildlife tree in advanced stage of decay (WT1).
Photo 34. View of zonal habitat conditions in vegetation polygon 1.
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Photo 35. View of habitat conditions in polygon 2.
Photo 36. View of potential mustelid den opening (Den2).
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Photo 37. View of potential bat roost habitat in balsam (WT2).
Photo 38. View of bear scat observed at Sign4.
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Photo 39. View of habitat conditions in disturbed area (vegetation
polygon 6).
Photo 40. View of typical habitat conditions in vegetation polygon 8.
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Photo 41. Southbound view of anthropogenic conditions in vegetation
polygon 8, south of the bridge site.
Photo 42. View of typical habitat conditions in vegetation polygon 12.
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Photo 43. View of typical disturbance conditions in vegetation polygon
3.
Photo 44. View showing plot of rare ecosystem black
cottonwood/subalpine fir/devil’s club southeast of vegetation polygon
12.
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Photo 41. Additional view of rare ecosystem identified southeast of
vegetation polygon 12.
Photo 42. View of moose tracks identified in vegetation polygon 12
(Sign3).