A proposal to construct flood and erosion mitigation works near North Thompson Indian Reserve is one of nearly 500 projects in B.C. that the federal government recently decided will not require environmental assessments.
The project would involve the installation of flood and erosion works including Neqweyqwelsten Creek (rip-rap, setback berm and planting) Skowootum Creek (debris removal) and Chu Chua Creek (gravel removal and bank shoring)
It was determined in 1999 that an environmental assessment was required for the project because Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada considered providing financial assistance to the proponent and Fisheries and Oceans Canada considered taking action in relation to subsection 22(1) of the Fisheries Act (which ensures sufficient flow of water to allow free passage of fish).
On July 6, the new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 came into force, replacing the former Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. As a result, there is no longer a requirement to complete the environmental assessment of this project.
A Canadian Environment Assessment Agency spokesperson described the proposals that no longer will need review as, “… numerous small, routine projects that posed little or no risk to the environment.”
Projects that are no longer subject to federal assessment will still be subject to relevant federal and provincial laws, regulations and standards.
