Notice of Determination

March 17, 2025 – Fisheries and Oceans Canada has decided that the CCG Victoria Base – Water Distribution Upgrade project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
In making this determination, Fisheries and Oceans Canada considered the following factors and mitigation measures:
Factors
•    Impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples: engagement has confirmed that the activities within the project will not have a negative impact on their rights
•    Indigenous knowledge: project activities will not negatively impact the surrounding traditionally used land and water
•    Comments received from the public: One public comment was received, however, it was unrelated to the project. 

Mitigation Measures
To minimize disturbance to habitat, a summary of this process is outlined below: 

•    Any removed soils are to be reused and sediment and erosion control (covered piles) are to be implemented while the soils exposed.
•    Manage soil that is not reused by disposing of the sediment in an appropriate location (e.g., at an upland facility approved to take the material), do not allow sediment to deposit in fish habitat, or be placed in an area where it may re-enter fish-bearing waters. 
•    All disturbed contaminated soils, will be reused onsite to bury the replaced piping and be recapped with asphalt immediately upon completion of the project. If contaminated soils are not being reused during construction they will be dealt with and disposed of properly removed to a licensed disposal facility.
•    The grounds will be monitored in case any artifacts or items of significant traditional meaning are found. If an object that may have cultural significant is discovered during the project activities, all construction will stop, the departmental representative will be notified, and an investigation will be conducted.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is satisfied that there is little potential for the project to cause adverse environmental effects on areas of federal jurisdiction. Environmental effects that are within provincial jurisdiction would be addressed through provincial regulations.
Therefore, Fisheries and Oceans Canada may 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.