New project being assessed by Parks Canada and Transport Canada – Public comments invited from July 10 to August 9, 2024  

July 10, 2024 – A Detailed Impact Assessment has been prepared to support an assessment of the likelihood of significant adverse environmental effects for the Big Egg Lake Water Control Structure Project, located within the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN) Jackfish Reserve (I.R. 201), Alberta. Parks Canada and Transport Canada must decide whether the proposed project is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

To help inform this decision, comments from the public are invited on the project's potential effects on the environment as the public consultation for this proposal. All comments received will be considered public. For more information on the public nature of your comments, individuals should consult the Privacy Notice on the Registry website.

In order to submit comments or request a copy of the draft Detailed Impact Assessment report, contact:

Email: wbnpactionplan-planactionpnwb@pc.gc.ca

Comments must be submitted by August 9, 2024

Project Summary: The Big Egg Lake Water Control Structure Project (the Project) is an initiative proposed by the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN) under the Wood Buffalo National Park World Heritage Site Action Plan (the Action Plan). The Project will be owned and operated by ACFN and was collaboratively developed with ACFN and federal technical experts under the Action Plan. The Project is proposed to be located on the east-connection channel between Big Egg Lake and the Athabasca River, within the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation Jackfish Reserve (I.R. 201), Alberta. The Project involves dredging and enlarging the existing east connection channel and installing a flap-gated culvert structure within the channel.

The Big Egg Lake area is a key location for ACFN members who harvest muskrat and waterfowl in the region. Big Egg Lake and surrounding area also holds cultural and spiritual significance, hosting cabins, camping sites, and other culturally important locations. The aim of the Project is to increase the frequency of inundation in Big Egg Lake, rejuvenating the wetlands, improving water quality, enhancing habitat conditions for wildlife, and increasing access for traditional use.

Scope of Assessment: The detailed impact assessment evaluates potential effects on Indigenous Culture, Heritage and Way of Life, Cultural Resources, Vegetation and Wetlands, Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat, Water Quality, Fish and Fish Habitat, Air Quality, Noise, and Water Resources and Navigation.