Planning Mechanism for the Undertaking
Two environmental assessment (EA) processes will be required to develop a preferred design for the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project. The first EA process will meet the provincial EA requirements through an Individual Environmental Assessment, as defined in the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act (EAA). The second EA process will address federal concerns using an Environmental Screening process as defined by the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA). Both reports will be developed in coordination to streamline the process and ensure that all requirements for both levels of government are addressed.
The Individual Environmental Assessment
The preferred alternative for this project will be determined using an Individual Environmental Assessment process. The purpose of the EAA is to ensure that an undertaking allows for the "betterment of the people of the whole or any part of Ontario by providing for the protection, conservation and wise management in Ontario of the environment" (R.S.O. 1990, c. E.18, s.2).
The project will be conducted in two stages. Stage One will involve the development and approvals of the Individual Environmental Assessment Terms of Reference. This first stage has been completed with the approval by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) of the EA terms of Reference (ToR) on August 16, 2006. Stage Two will involve the preparation and approvals of the Individual EA in accordance of the EA ToR. The EA is anticipated to be submitted to the MOE by fall 2008.
The CEAA Environmental Screening Report
Stage Two activities of the project will also include the preparation and approval of the CEAA Environmental Screening Report. Under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA), federal authorities are required to determine whether projects they are considering supporting are likely to cause significant negative environmental effects despite efforts to minimize these effects. With federal funds currently being provided through Environment Canada from the federal government for the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project, this project will trigger an Environmental Screening with Environment Canada acting as the lead Responsible Authority. A number of other federal authorities may participate as Responsible Authorities or as Expert Agencies due to:
- Anticipated changes in fish habitat and navigation (Department of Fisheries and Oceans).
- The implementation of flood protection works and floodway construction along the Don River that may impact existing infrastructure such as pipelines and railroads (National Energy Board and/or the Canada Transportation Agency).
- The possible relocation or decommission of Port Authority Activities during the implementation of naturalization activities (Toronto Port Authority).
- The possible impacts on migratory birds, species at risk, surface water quality, toxics management and climate change (Environment Canada).
- The likely need for modification of stream crossings over the Don River (Transport Canada, Navigable Water Protection Division)
Other expert federal departments may be identified which will provide advice through the CEAA process.
