Notice of Determination

October 6, 2025 - Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed Beardy's and Okemasis Cree Nation Solid Waste Removal and Landfill Decommissioning project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

 

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

- Beardy's and Okemasis Cree Nation has authorized the project by Band Council Resolution, and its membership will benefit from the project

- no comments were received from the public about the project

- mitigation measures are required for the project

 

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

1.           The project shall proceed in the manner described in the ISC Project Description form, dated September 5, 2025 and other supporting documents. The Proponent will immediately notify ISC of any changes to the proposed project for approval.

2.           Relevant permits and approvals will be obtained before undertaking any work. It is the Proponent's responsibility to meet all applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws and regulations that apply to the proposed project. This Notice of Determination does not apply to ancillary features associated with this development that were not included in the Project Description form.

3.           Mitigation measures and best practices outlined in the Beardy's & Okemasis' Cree Nation Solid Waste Removal and Disposal Project Specification (PINTER & Associates Ltd., dated June 12, 2025) will be followed.

4.           All work will be carried out in accordance with the Migratory Bird Convention Act and applicable regulations.

5.           No staging or storage areas will be located within 10 m of a wetland or waterbody boundary.

6.           Provide erosion and sediment control measures to prevent soil erosion and discharge of soil-bearing water runoff or airborne dust to adjacent properties and waterways in accordance with federal and provincial standards. 

a.           Inspect, repair, and maintain erosion and sediment control measures during construction until permanent vegetation has been established.

b.            Remove erosion and sediment controls measures and restore and stabilize areas disturbed during removal.

7.           Natural drainage pathways must be maintained where possible during clean-up and reclamation activities.

8.           Waste and/or hazardous materials must be removed from site as soon as practicable and taken to a certified/approved landfill in accordance with provincial and municipal legislation.

9.           Careful maintenance and monitoring of all equipment will be carried out to minimize the risk of spills or leaks of petroleum-based products. Storage of hazardous material and refueling is prohibited within 100 m of a water body. The contractor will have an emergency response plan to manage fuel spills.

10.        Regardless of volume, any spilled substance that may cause an adverse effect must be cleaned up immediately and contaminated materials removed from the site for proper disposal. All spills must be reported to relevant federal, provincial and municipal government departments.

11.        Dust control must be implemented to prevent air quality impacts and ensure the safety of nearby public.

12.        All equipment must be properly maintained and equipped with standard air emissions equipment.

 

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