Construction of Land-Based and Cultural Learning Centre on Wauzhushk Onigum Nation

The Proposed Project

The Anishinabe of Wauzhushk Onigum have undertaken a project to provide the community with a land-based and cultural programming facility. The centre, Anishinaabe Izhitwaawiin, will be 863 m2 which includes 597 m2 garage for storing equipment and vehicles, three (3) 9 m2 offices for operational staff, 148 m2 open area and a 39 m2 kitchen. A total of 581 m2 will be cleared to accommodate outdoor activities, the building, a fenced compound and parking. Project activities include:

  • Clearing and grubbing of vegetation and re-grading of the site;
  • Slab on grade foundation will be poured in preparation for the modular building being constructed off-site at the supplier's location;
  • Building will be placed on and secured to slab on grade foundation;
  • Connection to nearby existing water and electrical services; And
  • Installation of a new septic system.

The construction of Anishinaabe Izhitwaawiin will allow Wauzhushk Onigum Nation's education department to deliver land-based and other cultural programs that are important for the mental, emotional and physical health of the community's children and youth by promoting: environmental stewardship, cultural confidence, traditional knowledge, technical and practical skills, and self-determination. 

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Latest update

Notice of determination

November 23, 2024 - Indigenous Services Canada has determined that the proposed project, "Construction of Land-Based and Cultural Learning Centre on Wauzhushk Onigum Nation", is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

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

  • The project will have a positive impact on the rights Indigenous peoples by providing an environment for Indigenous youth that fosters environmental stewardship, cultural confidence, traditional knowledge, technical and practical skills, and self-determination;
  • The project area within the reserve boundaries of Wauzhushk Onigum Nation and is surrounded by the community's traditional hunting and fishing grounds. However, this project was noted to be in Wauzhushk Onigum Nation's community development plan and was endorsed by the Chief and Council.
  • No comments were received by ISC from the public.
  • During construction activities, mitigation measures to ensure the protection of the environment, and safety of members of the community will be implemented.  

Possible environmental effects were identified, and mitigation measures proposed by the proponent have been reviewed and approved by ISC. Possible environmental effects and associated mitigations are listed below:

  • Septic system tank failure leading to wastewater contamination of groundwater: Septic tanks will be regularly inspected, pumped, and maintained. Materials that may damage the system will not be flushed.
  • Air quality reduction from emissions and dust: It will be ensured that construction equipment is properly maintained for efficient combustion; idling of vehicles onsite will be minimized; watering the ground will be done on dry, windy days to reduce dust.
  • Noise from construction works: Equipment mufflers to be in good condition; work is to occur during daylight hours only; neighbouring residents will be notified of construction schedule.
  • Impacts to birds, insects, and wildlife species: The surrounding forest land and potential wildlife habitat will not be disturbed from the construction works. If any species at risk or wildlife or bird habitat are encountered during the construction works, the works will temporarily cease in the area of concern and a review with the engineer, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), and the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Parks, and Conservation (MECP) will be conducted to determine actions and whether a permit is required. No bird or wildlife species will be intentionally harmed or displaced.
  • Construction health and safety concerns: Contractor to utilize a safety program and workers to wear personal protective equipment onsite. Access to the construction sites will be restricted to prevent public access. Safety signs and fencing will be utilized around the construction sites and excavations.
  • Erosion and siltation from earthworks: Silt fencing will be installed along ditches to limit siltation into bodies of surface water. The disturbed ground areas will be re-seeded to encourage surface grass growth after construction is complete.
  • Spill of fuel or equipment leak or discovery of contaminated soils: Construction equipment will be well maintained and the contractor will utilize a spill clean-up kit to contain liquid spills. No re-fuelling is to occur within 100 metres of a waterbody. The MECP Spills Action Centre will be contacted in the eent of a chemical leak or spill. If contaminated soils are discovered during excavation works, the works would temporarily cease in the area, ISC and the First Nation would be notified, and an engineered investigation would occur in accordance with federal guidance documents to determine the extent of the contamination.
  • Disturbing historic or cultural artifacts: If any relevant artifacts are uncovered, works would temporarily stop in those areas while an investigation occurs with the First Nation and provincial authorities; Any human remains discovered will be investigated by provincial and federal police forces.
  • Waste generation: Any construction waste produced will be disposed of at an approved landfill site. Any hazardous material waste will be hauled to a licensed facility. Any excess soil material excavated would be utilized on the project site or in the community for landscaping.

Indigenous Services Canada is satisfied that 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.

 

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Contacts

Indigenous Services Canada
Hannah Silvaggio, Environment Officer
100 Anemki Place, Suite 101
Fort William First Nation, Ontario P7J 1A5
Telephone: 807-624-5921
Email: hannah.silvaggio@sac-isc.gc.ca


Disclaimer

This map is for illustrative purposes. The markers represent the approximate locations based on available data. More than one marker may be identified for a given assessment.

  • Location

    • Wauzhushk Onigum Nation (Ontario)

  • Nature of Activity

    • Building and Property Development

  • Assessment Status

    Completed

  • Start Date

    2024-09-17

  • Proponent

    Anishinabe of Wauzhushk Onigum

  • Authorities

    • Indigenous Services Canada

  • Assessment Type

    Project on federal lands

  • Reference Number

    88908

Nearby assessments

...within 200 kilometres
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