Notice of Determination

Greater Vancouver, B.C. –  May 17, 2024 – The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority (VFPA) and Environment Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has determined that the proposed Log dump habitat restoration located in the northern extent of Indian Arm isnot likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

• Impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples
• Indigenous knowledge
• Community knowledge
• Comments received from the public
• Technically and economically feasible mitigation measures

Best efforts were made to consult with Musqueam Indian Band, S'ólh Téméxw Stewardship Alliance, Squamish Nation, and Tsleil-Waututh Nation. The following was requested:

• Request to send Indigenous monitors on-site during project works
• Request to review the site-specific spill response plan

VFPA posted the Project to the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry on October 17, 2023 for public comment. No comments were received. ECCC conducted a subsequent 30-day public comment period starting on January 15th, 2024. One comment was received and was considered in ECCC's determination for the Project.

The Royal Vancouver Yacht Club, Deep Cove Yacht and Sport Club, Metro Vancouver and the Ministry of Forests were referred the project for comment. No comments were received.

Mitigation measures and/or permit conditions taken into account in making the determination include:

• Water quality would be maintained according to the Canadian Water Quality Guidelines for the Protection of Aquatic Life

• A qualified environmental monitor would be retained to conduct water quality monitoring during dredging
• A qualified environmental monitor would monitor the restoration works to confirm the conditions of approvals are being met 
• The works would be scheduled within the DFO reduced least risk fisheries timing window
• Marine mammals monitoring would be conducted within an established marine mammal exclusion zone
• A site-specific spill response plan would be developed prior to the commencement of the works
• Dredging activities would start with a soft start procedure to allow for fish to vacate the area prior to the start of works

• All material intended for DAS would be disposed of under a valid DAS Permit pursuant to the provisions of Part 7, Division 3 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999

The VFPA and ECCC are satisfied that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Should you require more information on the project, visit our website.