Notice of Determination

December 20, 2023 – Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Wahta Mohawks - Waste Transfer Station and Landfill Closure project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

• There will be positive impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples, and;
• Mitigation measures proposed for the project have been prepared and review by ISC.

Implementation of the following mitigation measures is required for the project:

• Vegetation removal – Vegetation removal required for the project will be completed outside of the migratory bird nesting season (April 15 to September 30) and tree removal will be avoided during the bat maternity roosting and activity period (April 1 to September 30). The area to be cleared will be marked to ensure excess clearing is not conducted.  Movement of vehicles and machinery will be restricted to the work areas and designated access points.  Cleared/bare areas will be revegetated to minimize exposed soils and erosion potential.  Revegetation will be done using native trees, shrubs or grasses, the areas will be covered with mulch to prevent soil erosion and to help seeds germinate.       
• Invasive Species – To reduce and/or control the introduction or spread of invasive species, equipment will be pressure washed before entering a site and before being moved to another location.
• Reptile Exclusionary Fencing – Exclusionary fencing will be installed around the work area to prevent species from entering the project site and in advance of reptile nesting season (on or before April 1). Fencing will be designed and installed to follow the Ontario's Reptile and Amphibian Exclusion Fencing to ensure effectiveness and prevent harm to SAR reptiles.
• Air Quality – Dust Control Measures will be implemented to control air quality. Where practical, idling of on-site vehicles will be discouraged. Vehicles will be covered when soil or aggregates are transported.  Exposed soils will be covered or wetted down.
• Noise Control – Noise Control Measures including the use of noise muffled devices and restricting construction work to regular working hours, will be implemented to reduce and control temporary construction noise disturbances to receptors near the construction site.
• Health and Safety – Project activities will comply with provincial and federal Occupational Health and Safety requirements, including the use of PPE at all times. Injuries, incidents or fatalities will be immediately reported to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board of Ontario.    

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

Therefore, Indigenous Services Canada may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.