S2B ESR Final December 2012

Transcription

Class Environmental Assessment – Environmental Study Report Circuit S2B Project
Transmission Line Refurbishment Project
115 kV Circuit S2B
Manitoulin Transformer Station (TS) x
Copper Cliff Junction (JCT)
Class Environmental Assessment
Environmental Study Report
Transmission Line Refurbishment Project
115 kV Circuit S2B
Manitoulin Transformer Station (TS) x
Copper Cliff Junction (JCT)
Class Environmental Assessment
Environmental Study Report
December 2012
Report Number: 12-9
Hydro One Networks Inc.
Environmental Services and Approvals
483 Bay Street, South Tower, 4th Floor
Toronto, ON M5G 2P5
Copyright © 2012 Hydro One Networks Inc.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report has been prepared in accordance with the “Class Environmental Assessment for Minor
Transmission Facilities” (Class EA) (1992). Hydro One Networks Inc. (Hydro One) is planning
to refurbish approximately 28 km of an existing 115 kV transmission line (Circuit S2B
Project) through the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands, Whitefish River 4
Reserve, Sudbury Unorganized (North), Town of Espanola, Township of Baldwin,
Township of Nairn and Hyman and the City of Greater Sudbury. Circuit S2B was built in
1950 and portions of the transmission line have reached its end-of-life. The planned
maintenance is necessary to maintain the integrity of a safe and reliable electricity supply.
The planned maintenance will involve:

Refurbishment of approximately 29 of the wood pole structures installed in close
proximity to the old pole locations and along the same centerline of this 30.48m wide
corridor.
Additional property rights will not be required for the Circuit S2B Project.
The Class EA process for the proposed Circuit S2B Project included an assessment of the
existing environment, prediction of the potential effects, identification of mitigation
requirements and public/regulatory consultation. Potentially affected public, government
ministries, municipalities, agencies, elected officials, and First Nations and Métis
communities were notified through letters, personal contact and newspaper advertisements.
During the environmental assessment (EA) process, government agencies, municipal
officials, First Nations & Métis communities and the public were consulted and their
comments were addressed in this ESR. Opposition was not expressed regarding this Project
and Part II order requests were not received to elevate the Project from a Class EA to an
Individual EA. As a result of the EA process, it was concluded that the environmental
effects of the Circuit S2B Project are minor. Hydro One will proceed with the undertaking
outlined in this report.
ES - 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................ 1
1.
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................ 1
1.1
Need for the Project ........................................................................................................................ 1
1.2
Alternatives to the Undertaking .................................................................................................... 3
1.3
Description of the Undertaking..................................................................................................... 4
1.4
Approval Process and Regulatory Requirements ........................................................................ 6
1.4.1 Environmental Assessment Act Approval .............................................................................. 6
1.4.2 Other Permits, Licences and Approvals .................................................................................. 6
2.
CLASS EA PROCESS ........................................................................................................ 8
2.1
2.2
Study Area Definition ..................................................................................................................... 8
Environmental Inventory .............................................................................................................10
3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC FEATURES IN THE STUDY
AREA ....................................................................................................................................... 11
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9
Biological Resources ......................................................................................................................11
Forest Resources ............................................................................................................................11
Agricultural Resources ..................................................................................................................11
Mineral Resources..........................................................................................................................12
Recreation Resources ....................................................................................................................12
Archaeology and Heritage Resources .........................................................................................12
Appearance of the Landscape ......................................................................................................13
Human Settlement .........................................................................................................................13
First Nations and Métis Communities........................................................................................13
4. PUBLIC, GOVERNMENT AND FIRST NATIONS AND MÉTIS NOTIFICATION
AND CONSULTATION ........................................................................................................ 14
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
Public and Government Agency Consultation..........................................................................14
First Nations and Métis Communities Consultation ................................................................14
Review Period of Draft ESR ........................................................................................................15
Project Web Site.............................................................................................................................16
5.
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES . 17
6.
MONITORING .............................................................................................................. 19
7.
CONCLUSIONS ............................................................................................................. 20
8.
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................ 21
i
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A: Existing and Proposed Structure Types
Appendix B: Consultation
Appendix C: Temporary Timber Mat Crossings
Appendix D: Natural Features and Access
Appendix E: Construction Equipment
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Location of the 115 kV Circuit S2B Transmission Line ............................................................. 2
Figure 2: Use of existing trails for off-corridor access to structures .......................................................... 5
Figure 3: Photo of typical appearance of the Circuit S2B Corridor ........................................................... 9
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Potentially Applicable Federal and Provincial Permits, Licenses and Approvals ..................... 7
ii
1.
INTRODUCTION
Hydro One Networks Inc. (Hydro One) is proposing to refurbish approximately 28 km of an
existing 115 kV transmission line (Circuit S2B Project). The work area extends through the Town of
Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands, Whitefish River 4 Reserve, Sudbury Unorganized (North),
Town of Espanola, Township of Baldwin, Township of Nairn and Hyman and the City of Greater
Sudbury (see Figure 1).
This report has been prepared in compliance with the requirements of the Ontario Environmental
Assessment Act (EA Act). The proposed Circuit S2B Project falls within the definition of the projects
covered by the Ontario Hydro “Class Environmental Assessment for Minor Transmission Facilities” (Class
EA) (1992), which is approved under the EA Act. This Environmental Study Report (ESR)
describes the Class EA process that has been undertaken for the proposed Project.
1.1
Need for the Project
Circuit S2B was originally built in 1950 and a portion of this transmission line has reached its endof-life. Hydro One is planning to refurbish approximately 29 of the wood pole structures within the
existing Circuit S2B corridor. These poles have been identified as requiring refurbishment as part of
Hydro One’s pole testing program. The planned maintenance is necessary to maintain the integrity
of a safe and reliable electricity supply.
1
Figure 1: Location of the 115 kV Circuit S2B Transmission Line
2
1.2
Alternatives to the Undertaking
“Do Nothing” Alternative
The “Do Nothing” alternative was considered. In this alternative, the wood poles would continue
to deteriorate. As a result, the reliability and integrity of the electrical system would be compromised
to the extent that there would be a failure of the electrical system which would pose an electrical
safety hazard. It is therefore concluded that this alternative is not feasible.
Construct New Corridor and Transmission Line
Construction of a new corridor would involve the establishment of new easements, clearing of
forested land and the construction of new access roads. The length of a new corridor would likely
exceed the 28 km length of the existing line and its construction would have a more significant
adverse effect on the environment.
This would be an expensive and lengthy alternative and
therefore can be concluded as not feasible.
Transmission Line Maintenance
As indicated in the Provincial Planning Statement (PPS) (OMMAH, 2005), “the use of existing
infrastructure and public service facilities should be optimized, whenever feasible, before
consideration is given to developing new infrastructure and public service facilities”. Refurbishment
of this section of Circuit S2B involves replacing most of the existing wood pole structures.
Additional property rights will not be required for the Project. The refurbished transmission line will
serve well into the future providing safe, reliable and efficient service. This is the most efficient and
cost effective alternative and has been selected as the preferred alternative.
3
1.3
Description of the Undertaking
The scope of the Circuit S2B Project includes the following:

Re-establishment (cutting of brush) of the existing access roads and trails, as required
(access is along the transmission corridor in Appendix D);

Refurbishment of approximately 29 wood pole structures with new wood poles in
approximately the same location as the existing poles. Appendix A contains photos of
the existing and proposed structures.

The stripped bare old poles will be cut flush with the ground, and will be placed at
acceptable locations along the transmission line corridor for removal and appropriate
disposal; and

Removal of all construction debris after project completion for appropriate disposal.
Heavy equipment is required to complete this maintenance project. The type of equipment used for
wood pole refurbishment is off road tracked equipment, including an 80ft aerial bucket (GT 3000)
and bucket crane. Refer to Appendix E for photos of equipment used during construction.
All hardware and other metal will be removed from the old poles, and the poles will be left in a safe
and acceptable location lying flush on the ground along the edge of the transmission corridor. If the
poles have been chemically treated, they will be removed from the site and disposed of in
accordance with Hydro One’s waste guidelines. A contract exists for the recovery and recycling of
all reclaimed poles. No used or reclaimed are sold to the public. Treated full-length poles and treated
pole remnants that are not returned to our contract will be disposed of as hazardous (i.e. leachate
toxic) waste through Hydro One’s Waste Management department, who ensures that proper
regulations are followed. There will be no construction debris left on the corridor after the project
is complete.
Following completion of the Class EA process, applications will be made for any permits or
approvals that may be required prior to construction.
4
As this transmission line has been in existence for 62 years, there are existing roads and access trails
that have been utilized for its construction and subsequent maintenance activities.
These
roads/trails will be used wherever possible to provide access for the Circuit S2B Project. Refer to
Appendix D for detailed mapping of the work area. The yellow dotted line in Figure 2 is an
example of existing off-corridor trails for access to wood pole structures. Permission will be
obtained from private land owners where access is needed on their property.
Figure 2: Use of existing trails for off-corridor access to structures
The construction for this Project is scheduled to begin in January 2013 and be completed by the end
of the year.
5
1.4
Approval Process and Regulatory Requirements
1.4.1
Environmental Assessment Act Approval
This final ESR has been prepared in conformance with the Ontario Hydro (1992) Class EA process,
which was approved under the EA Act and defines an environmental planning process which meets
all requirements of the EA Act. It also includes the process for initial and final notification of a
recommended undertaking, an associated public consultation process, a review period for the draft
ESR, and the filing of a final ESR with the Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE). The Class
EA document also defines the specific types of transmission projects that fall within the specified
Class definition.
The Class EA process is consistent with the Category B screening process
described in the MOE (2001) “Guide to Environmental Assessment Requirements for Electricity
Projects” (EA Guide). As a result, projects subject to the Class EA are also consistent with Category
B projects.
This ESR was made available for public and agency review and comment for a period from October
31 to November 30, 2012. As no requests to elevate this Class EA to an individual EA were
received during the review period, the Circuit S2B Project was considered acceptable and the final
ESR was filed with the MOE on December 20, 2012.
1.4.2
Other Permits, Licences and Approvals
Generally, in addition to the EA Act approval, there are a series of necessary permits, licenses and
approvals that may be required under federal and provincial legislation for Hydro One transmission
projects. Hydro One will contact all affected regulatory agencies in due course to ensure that the
Circuit S2B Project conforms to all requirements and that approvals are obtained in a timely
manner. Table 1 shows the permits that may be required for this project.
It should be noted that Hydro One projects are exempt from municipal approvals as authorized
under the Planning Act if approval is obtained under the EA Act.
6
Table 1: Potentially Applicable Federal and Provincial Permits, Licenses and Approvals
PERMIT
PRIMARY
AGENCY
DESCRIPTION
Water Crossings Permit
(ford/culvert/bridge)
MNR/Fisheries and
Oceans Canada
(DFO)/
Conservation
Authorities (CAs)
Any change to existing or installation of new water
crossing.
DFO Operational Statements
(OPS)
DFO
Any and all DFO OPS statements that can pertain to
Class EA work (ex. Beaver dam, clear span bridges,
overhead lines)
Entrance Permit
MTO
A permit is required to alter, construct or maintain an
entrance for a secondary road to a highway.
Temporary Road Entrance Permit Ministry of
Transportation
(MTO); county or
local municipality
A permit is required to construct an entrance for
access to a construction site. May also serve as the
basis for a permanent entrance.
Railroad Crossing
The Project proponent is required to give notice of the
proposed project to the railway whose line is to be
crossed, the municipality in which the crossing works
are to be located and the authority having
responsibility for the road in question.
CP/CN/Private
7
2.
CLASS EA PROCESS
The Class EA for this project was planned according to the requirements defined by the Ontario
Hydro Class EA (Ontario Hydro, l992). The purpose of this document is to provide a basis for
approval under the EA Act of a defined class of projects. The proposed undertaking falls within the
scope of the Class EA.
2.1
Study Area Definition
The study area boundaries for the proposed Circuit S2B Project are the existing transmission line
corridor and existing access to the corridor.
The study area extends from Manitoulin TS to Espanola Junction (Jct) along Highway 6 in the Town
of Espanola and from Ethel Lake Jct to Copper Cliff Jct in the City of Greater Sudbury. Figure 3 is
a photograph showing a typical area on the corridor.
8
Figure 3: Photo of typical appearance of the Circuit S2B Corridor
9
2.2
Environmental Inventory
As delineated in the Class EA process (Ontario Hydro, 1992), environmental information was
collected for nine environmental factors, including:

biological resources;

forest resources;

agricultural resources;

mineral resources;

recreational resources;

archaeology and heritage resources;

appearance of the landscape;

human settlement; and

First Nations and Métis communities
Information for the factors was based on literature review, personal contacts and field surveys.
10
3.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC
FEATURES IN THE STUDY AREA
The following presents a description of environmental and socio-economic conditions in the Circuit
S2B project area
3.1
Biological Resources
The Circuit S2B Project corridor traverses the Spanish River several times, Wood Lake (Appendix
D), Raven Lake, East Fox Lake, Lake Huron and a number of small creeks. There will be no
requirement to cross these watercourses with construction vehicles. Six small wetlands are in
proximity to the corridor and construction areas; however no poles are situated directly on wetlands.
The western section of the maintenance will take place to the north of the Nickel District
Conservation Authority.
Based on the NHIC (2012) data received from the Ministry of Natural Resources, 12 of Species at
Risk and potential breeding birds have been listed as occurring in the project area. Provincially
designated threatened species that may occur in the project area include the Peregrine Falcon (Falco
peregrinus), Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii), Whip-poor-will (Caprimlugus vociferous), Chimney
Swift (Chaetura pelagica), Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna) and
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus). The Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), Olive-sided Flycatcher
(Contopus cooperi), Canada Warbler (Wilsonia Canadensis), Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum) and
Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentine) are provincially designated species of special concern.
3.2
Forest Resources
This factor is not applicable because the Project is on an existing ROW and will not impact forest
resources.
3.3
Agricultural Resources
This factor is not applicable because the Project does not traverses agricultural lands.
11
3.4
Mineral Resources
This factor is not applicable because the Project is on an existing ROW and will not impact mineral
resources. The existing circuit supplies electricity to many mining operations in the area
3.5
Recreation Resources
The STP Ring Trail runs to the north of the line but does not intersect the line segment being
maintained. Recreational trail C108D intersects the line near structure #27 on the west side of the
Spanish River. The Circuit S2B Project corridor is in proximity to snowmobile trails. Notification
letters will be sent to the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) prior to construction to
notify patrons of the construction activities in the area. These trail locations are located on the
Natural Features maps in Appendix D.
3.6
Archaeology and Heritage Resources
On October 9, 2012, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS) responded to the October
10, 2012 Notice of Commencement for the S2B project. The response stated that “Based on the
nature of the proposed work an archaeological assessment is not recommended for this project.”
Hydro One will notify MTCS if archaeological or cultural material is encountered during the course
of the project work. If Hydro One encounters archaeological or cultural material during the course
of the project work, then all activities impacting the archaeological material shall cease immediately
and a licensed archaeologist shall be engaged to carry out archaeological fieldwork, in compliance
with sec. 48(1) of the Ontario Heritage Act (MTCS, 1990).
In the event that human remains are encountered during project work, Hydro One shall immediately
notify the police, the coroner's office and the Registrar of Cemeteries. The Cemeteries Regulation
Unit of the Ministry of Consumer Services may be contacted at toll free 1-800-889-9768. In
situations where the remains are associated with archaeological resources, the Ministry of Tourism,
Culture and Sport should also be notified to ensure that the site is not subject to unlicensed
alterations which would be a contravention of the Ontario Heritage Act.
12
3.7
Appearance of the Landscape
There will be no significant change to the landscape since this is a pole refurbishment project.
3.8
Human Settlement
The study area is 28 km in length, traverses highway 6, gravel roads, private laneways and railway
tracks (Appendix D). Three structures are located on the Whitefish River 4 reserve and five
structures are located on Vale Inco’s Creighton Mine property. Most of the property is privately
owned and Hydro One has easements for the transmission line.
3.9
First Nations and Métis Communities
The nearest First Nation reserves are the Whitefish River 4 Reserve, as Circuit S2B runs through the
reserve to Manitoulin TS. Sagamok First Nation is located approximately 25 km west of the Circuit
S2B corridor. Point Grondine 3 Reserve is located approximately 30 km to the east of the corridor
and Whitefish Lake 6 Reserve is located approximately 5 km south of the corridor. Wahnapitae First
Nation is located approximately 50 km northwest of the corridor and the Sudbury Métis Council is
the closest in proximity to the project.
13
4.
PUBLIC, GOVERNMENT AND FIRST NATIONS AND
MÉTIS NOTIFICATION AND CONSULTATION
Notice of commencement letters for the proposed Circuit S2B Project, providing a brief description
of the undertaking and the study area as well as the Class EA process, were sent to those First
Nation and Métis communities with potential interest in the Project area on July 26, 2012. The
Notice of commencement letters were sent to government agencies and the municipal planner on
September 28, 2012 and notification was sent to municipal officials and private landowners the week
of October 29, 2012. The notification letters were provided to the property owners with accessible
mailing addresses within 100 metres of the Project corridor the week of October 29, 2012. Copies of
the letters and the project mailing list are available in Appendix B.
4.1
Public and Government Agency Consultation
Input was solicited from agencies through Project Participation Forms, telephone and email
communications. Links to electronic copies of the draft ESR were sent to government agency
stakeholders, including the MNR and MOE, for further input.
In response to the initial notification letter, no concerns have been raised from municipal officials.
The comments made during the draft ESR 30-day review period are summarized in Table 2 of
Appendix B.
4.2
First Nations and Métis Communities Consultation
There are six First Nations and Métis communities in the study area. All communities were
contacted by telephone if the Project Participation Form were not returned (see Appendix B). The
intent was to provide information and answer any questions on the project.
Aundeck Omni Kaning, one of the shareholders of the Lake Huron Anishinabek Transmission
Company (LHATC), contacted Hydro One on August 8, 2012 inquiring about procurement or work
opportunities for the company to undertake this and other projects of this nature within the
14
Robinson Huron Treaty. Hydro One responded on September 7, 2012 notifying the First Nation
that Hydro One has been in contact with Ross Assinewe, CEO of the LHATC and have shared
information about Hydro One’s procurement procedures.
On August 22, 2012, the Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation also contacted Hydro One inquiring
about procurement or work opportunities for the LHATC to undertake this and other projects of
this nature within the Robinson Huron Treaty. Hydro One responded on September 7, 2012
notifying the First Nation that Hydro One has been in contact with Ross Assinewe, CEO of the
LHATC and have shared information about Hydro One’s procurement procedures.
On October 17, during a phone conversation with Chief Paibomsai of Whitefish River, he raised
concerns about the environmental impacts of the CCA treatment on wood pole structures;
specifically, the leachate and effects on the woodpecker population.
Hydro One has monitored the effects of treated wood poles over the past decade and has not found
significant leaching. Health Canada (2012) states that the copper, chromium and arsenic (CCA)
treatment is “…unlikely to cause any environmental hazard.” Any potential leaching of the CCA
treatment is localized to the wood pole infrastructure.
Woodpecker nests in Hydro poles are an issue to Hydro One. The older poles are only treated at
the bottom and therefore are not an issue for woodpecker nesting success. We try to discourage
nesting in Hydro poles had have experimented in the past with putting the old pole beside the new
pole, attaching a nesting box, wrapping the pole with commercial wraps and strong wire and these
tactics have not been successful. We are now looking at replacing the poles in areas with high
woodpecker populations with composite poles. This information was provided to Chief Paibomsai.
The draft ESR was sent to all six communities for comments and input.
4.3
Review Period of Draft ESR
Hydro One made the draft ESR available for review from October 31, 2012 to November 30, 2012.
The Notice of Completion of the draft ESR for the Circuit S2B Project was sent to First Nation
15
communities and agencies the week of October 29, 2012 (see Appendix B). A public notice
regarding the draft ESR 30-day review period was placed in the Sudbury Star on October 31, 2012.
Hydro One made the draft ESR available to be viewed at the following locations:
Espanola Public Library
245 Avery Drive
Espanola, ON P5E 1S4
Greater Sudbury Public Library
74 Mackenzie Street
Sudbury, ON P3C 4X8
Municipality of Northeastern Manitoulin
15 Manitowaning Road
P.O. Box 2000
Little Current, ON P0P 1K0
4.4
Project Web Site
To further facilitate public access to information relating to the Project and the opportunity to
provide
feedback,
a
project
web
page
was
www.hydroone.com/Projects/WoodPoles
16
created
on
Hydro
One’s
website
at
5.
POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS AND
MITIGATION MEASURES
There are limited effects associated with this refurbishment project. Potential short-term effects are
limited to the construction activities associated with accessing the structures for refurbishment, and
removal of hardware. The increase in traffic will be minimal and the work will be done by track
vehicles.
Because of the nature of the work involved it is not anticipated that there will be any effect on
heritage or archaeology. The scheduling of the work in winter would further minimize impact on
archaeology. If any archaeology artefacts are found, MTCS will be notified immediately. In the
event that human remains are encountered during project work, the police, the coroner's office and
the Registrar of Cemeteries will be contacted.
There are no water crossings required for the construction of this project. All structures can be
accessed using existing access roads and trails. If a creek crossing becomes necessary, those that do
not have existing crossings will be crossed using temporary timber mats. See Appendix C for typical
temporary timber mat crossing installation. Often the need for installing a temporary timber mat
depends on the weather conditions at the time of crossing. If the crossing requires a bridge, a
highway grade MNR approved temporary modular bridge will be used. The MNR or DFO will be
contacted for any permits or permissions, as required.
Construction in areas that cannot be accessed under dry conditions, such as wetland areas, will be
done under frozen conditions. Wetland vegetation will be allowed to re-establish naturally and there
should not be any need for the application of seed or fertilizer.
Potential long-term effects are not anticipated because there is an existing transmission line in the
same location.
17
No special mitigation is required since any environmental concerns can be adequately addressed by
the Hydro One (2009) “Environmental Guidelines for Construction and Maintenance of
Transmission Facilities”.
18
6.
MONITORING
Compliance monitoring, as per the “Hydro One Networks Services Standard 4208-84200-01 R0
Environmental Monitoring Standard,” is to be carried out by the Hydro One Environmental
Monitor, who will plan periodic site visits based on the project activity schedule and work location
of the construction crews. The timing of the visits will be discussed with the designated construction
contact.
The responsibilities of the Environmental Monitor are to achieve the following goals:
•
To foster open and constructive relations with the communities potentially affected by the
project and identify any issues;
•
To demonstrate compliance with all project commitments and legislative requirements;
•
To document effects on the environment;
•
To minimize effects on private properties and agricultural operations;
•
To minimize environmental effects on natural habitats, flora and fauna;
•
To minimize health and safety risks to local residents and construction staff;
•
To document that required mitigation was implemented;
•
To confirm that mitigation was implemented and effective;
•
To identify unforeseen effects and ensure appropriate remedial action;
•
To assess the effectiveness of mitigative measures in support of a continual improvement
process;
•
To confirm contractors and staff are working in compliance with environmental
requirements;
•
To confirm compliance with all appropriate environmental quality standards; and
•
To comply with monitoring requirements as a condition of approval.
19
7.
CONCLUSIONS
Hydro One is proposing to refurbish portions of an existing 115 kV transmission line (Circuit S2B
Project) between Manitoulin TS and Copper Cliff Jct. Circuit S2B was built in 1950 and most of the
transmission line has reached its end-of-life. The refurbishment is necessary to maintain a safe and
reliable electricity supply to residential and industrial customers in the area. The environmental
effects of the Circuit S2B Project have been assessed as being minor.
Hydro One has conducted public and government agency consultation since September 28, 2012 to
inform stakeholders about the Circuit S2B Project, to identify issues and concerns and to resolve or
propose appropriate mitigation measures. First Nations and Métis communities, provincial
ministries and agencies, municipalities and the public were consulted by way of meetings, telephone
conversations, email correspondence and/or mailing of project information.
A draft of this ESR was made available for public and government agency review and comment
from October 31, 2012 to November 30, 2012. During the review period, limited comments were
received regarding the proposed Circuit S2B Project with no expressed opposition or concern from
regulatory agencies, municipalities, First Nations and Métis communities, and the public. The
comments are included in the body of the ESR and Hydro One’s responses are documented in
Appendix B of the ESR. No Part II Order requests were received to elevate the Circuit S2B Project
from a Class EA to an Individual EA.
Through filing this Final ESR with the MOE, Hydro One has complied with the EA Act for The
Circuit S2B Project. Hydro One will proceed with the undertaking outlined in the report. Hydro
One will obtain any requisite approvals, licences and permits.
20
8.
REFERENCES
Health Canada. 2005. Copper, Chromium, Arsenate Treated Wood Fact Sheet. http://www.hcsc.gc.ca/cps-spc/pubs/pest/_fact-fiche/cca-acc/index-eng.php
Health Canada. 2010. Electric and Magnetic Fields at Extremely Low Frequencies. It’s Your health.
Pamphlet. 3 p.
Hydro One Networks Inc. (Hydro One). 2009. Environmental Guidelines for the Construction and
Maintenance of Transmission Facilities.
Natural
Heritage
Information
Centre
(NHIC).
2012.
Species
Information.
http://nhic.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/nhic/species.cfm
Natural
Heritage
Information
Centre
(NHIC).
2010b.
Natural
Areas
Information.
http://nhic.mnr.gov.on.ca/MNR/nhic/areas_rep.cfm
Ontario Hydro. 1992. Class Environmental Assessment for Minor Transmission Facilities, Revision
6.
Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (OMMAH). 2005. 2005 Provincial Policy
Statement. 37 p.
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 1999. Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use Strategy.
Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS). 1990. Ontario Heritage Act: Revised
Statutes of Ontario. Chapter O.18.
21
Appendix A:
Existing and Proposed Structure Types
22
Old Style- “Wishbone Construction”
New Style- “Steel Arm Construction”
23
Class Environmental Assessment – Environmental Study Report S2B
Appendix B: Consultation
24
S2B Contact List_2013
First Name
Last Name
Community
Address
PO Box
City
Province
Postal Code
Phone
Email
Chief Steve
Miller
Atikameksheng
Anishnawbek First
Nation
25 Reserve
Road
PO Box 39
Naughton
ON
P0M 2M0
705-692-3651
[email protected] , [email protected]
Chief Paul
Eshkakogan
Sagamok
Anishnawbek First
Nation
PO Box 610
Massey
ON
POP 1PO
705-865-2421
[email protected]
Chief Ted
Roque
Wahnapitae First
Nation
PO Box 1119
Capreol
ON
POM 1HO
705-858-0610
[email protected]
Chief Franklin
Paibomsai
Whitefish River
First Nation
46 Bay of
Islands Rd,
PO Box A
Birch Island
ON
POP 1AO
705-285-4335
[email protected]
Chief Duke
Peltier
Wikwemikong
Unceded Indian
Reserve
19A Complex
Drive
PO Box 112
Wikwemikong
ON
POP 2JO
705-859-3122;
1-800-880-1406
[email protected]
President
Roger A.
Giroux
Sudbury Métis
Council
Box 81 site 18
RR # 3
Sudbury
ON
P3E 4N1
705-522-9605
[email protected]
25
S2B Contact List_2013
First Name
Last Name
Organization
Position
Address
Tim
Cavanagh
Ministry of Natural
Resources
Sudbury Area
Supervisor
Scott
Dingwall
Ministry of Natural
Resources
Eric
Cobb
Agatha
City
Province
Postal Code
Phone
Email
3767 Hwy 69
South
Sudbury
ON
P3G 1E7
705-564-7853
[email protected]
District
Planner
3767 Hwy 69
South
Sudbury
ON
P3G 1E7
705-564-7876
[email protected]
Ministry of Natural
Resources
SAR Biologist
3767 Hwy 69
South
Sudbury
ON
P3G 1E7
705-564-7856
[email protected]
Garcia-Wright
Ministry of
Environment
DirectorEnvironmental
Approvals
2 St Clair Ave
West, 12A
Floor
Toronto
ON
M4V 1L5
416-314-7288
[email protected]
Paula
Allen
Ministry of
Environment
199 Larch
Street, 12th
Floor
Sudbury
ON
P3E 5P9
705-564-3273
[email protected]
Laurie
Brownlee
Ministry of
Environment
199 Larch
Street, 12th
Floor
Sudbury
ON
P3E 5P9
705-564-3205
[email protected]
Mike
Pearsall
447 McKeown
Ave, Suite 301
North Bay
ON
P1B 9S9
705-497-5452
[email protected]
Rozi
Zirger
Ministry of
Transportation –
Northeastern
Region
Ministry of
Tourism, Culture
and Sport
Supervisor –
Air, Pesticides
and
Environmental
Planning
Environmental
Resource
Planner/
Environmental
Assessment
Coordinator
Manager –
Engineering
Office
Heritage
Planner
(Acting)
401 Bay Street,
Suite 1700
Toronto
ON
M7A 0A7
416-314-7159
[email protected]
Dennis
Lenzi
Nickel District
Conservation
Authority (NSCA)
Regulations
Officer
Sudbury
ON
P3E 5K3
705-674-5249
Ext 201
[email protected]
Paul
Baskcomb
City of Greater
Sudbury
Director of
Planning
Services
Sudbury
ON
P3A 5P3
705 674-4455
ext. 4306
[email protected]
Garson
ON
P3L 1S6
705-693-7669
[email protected]
Ontario Federation
of Snowmobile
Clubs (OFSC)
200 Brady
Street
3610
Falconbridge
Road
PO Box
PO Box 5000
26
Rick
Bartolucci
Sudbury
MPP
93 Cedar
Street, Suite
302
Sudbury
ON
P3A 1A7
[email protected]
Mike
Lehoux
Town of Espanola
Mayor
100 Tudhope
Street, Suite 2
Espanola
ON
P5E 1S6
[email protected]
Marianne
Matichuk
City of Greater
Sudbury
Mayor
Tom Davies
Square
Sudbury
ON
P3A 5P3
[email protected]
PO Box 5000,
STN A
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
Table 2: Summary of Agency Comments
Stakeholder
Type
Agencies
Ministry of
Tourism, Culture
and Sport
(MTCS)
Ministry of the
Environment
(MOE)
Comment
Response

The MTCS requested that Hydro One replace the
final sentence in section 3.6 (Archaeology and Heritage
Resources) of the Draft ESR with the following: “If Hydro
One encounters archaeological or cultural material during
the course of the project work, then all activities impacting
the archaeological material shall cease immediately and a
licensed archaeologist shall be engaged to carry out
archaeological fieldwork, in compliance with sec. 48(1) of
the OHA.”


The MOE noted that on page 3 of the Draft report,
there was a reference to the Provincial Planning Statement,
a document that finds its legislative base in the Planning
Act. The correct reference is the Provincial Policy Statement
(PPS). The Provincial Planning Statement is not technically
applicable to anything other than applications submitted
for decision under the Planning Act. It should only be used
as a planning resource and not suggested as a legislative
requirement for Environmental Assessment projects

Changes were made to page 3 of the report, replacing
“Provincial Planning Statement” to “Provincial Policy Statement”.

The MOE commented that if any of the poles are
being removed and not replaced, they recommend that
Hydro One considers soil testing to determine the extent of
any related soil contamination (if the poles to be removed
were chemically treated). In the case of poles which have
been treated with CCA or creosote, testing for arsenic,
46
Changes were made to Section 3.6 to reflect the comments.

Hydro One refers to the PPS as it provides important
distinctions between infrastructure and development that should not
be legislation dependent. Further, it provides direction on
Infrastructure and Public Service Facilities that applies to project
planning under either the Planning Act or the EA Act. Making best
use of existing infrastructure before developing new infrastructure has
been a long standing principle in transmission planning since the
1970’s (Royal Commission on Electric Power Planning). Hydro One
prefers to keep the reference to the PPS as a reference to the
Alternatives to the Undertaking.

No wood poles are being removed without being replaced
and construction activities will not have any requirements to take
water.
Stakeholder
Type
Comment
Response
copper and creosote should be completed.

The MOE also noted that Hydro One should be
aware that, should water taking at a combined rate of over
50,000 litres per day be required, Section 34 of the
Ontario Water Resources Act would require the proponent
to obtain a Permit to Take Water.
Table 2 summarizes comments received from government agencies. The second column identifies Hydro One’s response to the issue
raised where appropriate.
47
Appendix C: Temporary Timber Mat
Crossings
48
Photograph of Typical Timber Mats
Typical timber mat made of 10” x 12” squared timbers (white pine in north, hemlock in south/east) that
range in length between 16’ to 21’ long and are bolted together to form 3½’ - 4’ wide mats
49
OVERVIEW
Creek Bank
Creek
Creek Bank
.
SIDEVIEW
Creek
Timber Mat Installation Diagram
50
Appendix D: Natural Features and Access
51
Structure #45
Road crossing
Wood pole structure on one side of Wood Lake.
Road crossing to access structure #4
Woodpecker holes are visible on the structure
52
Access to Structure #1245
Off-Road Access
This structure will be accessed by an existing mine road.
This picture demonstrates typical off-road access to the wood
pole structures being maintained.
53
Natural Features Maps
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
Appendix E: Construction Equipment
66
Typical Construction Equipment
This picture demonstrates typical off-road tracked equipment used during
construction; ie. crane, bucket and backhoe trucks.
67
Typical Construction Equipment
This picture demonstrates typical off-road tracked equipment used during
construction; ie. crane, bucket and backhoe trucks.
68
69

S2B ESR Final December 2012

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