Describing the Environment

Ben Olson Ashley RotherSam StoneLauren TaniguchiErica Werhun

Project OverviewBipole III Transmission Reliability ProjectA new transmission line by Manitoba Hydro designed to improve system reliability1364km transmission line from Keewatinoow conversion station to Riel Conversion StationApproximately 100m wide at all timesPositioned on the west side of Lake WinnipegUndeveloped land, Boreal Forest, etc.Construction from August 2013-2017 Project OverviewBipole III Transmission Reliability Project is designed to:Transport electricity from the Keewatinoow Converter Station to the Riel Converter StationConverter station converts alternating current to high voltage direct current (HVDC)Direct current is more efficient over long distancesLess energy lostTransmission line sends DC to Riel to be converted back to ACdistributed to Manitobans

Project PhasesDescribing the EnvironmentBackground InformationDescribing the environmental baseline for Bipole III transmission corridorDescribes the environmental quality, as well as the environmental effects of the alternatives being assessed.Provide insight so environmental effects can be identified, described, measured and evaluated.

Identifies environmentally significant features, geographic areas, and valued ecosystem components (VECs)Protected AreasProtected areas need to be identified in order to define an appropriate route to avoid said areas. The Bipole III transmission line pathway will go around any areas protected by legislation such as: Riding Mountain National Park and Duck Mountain Provincial Park. Woodland caribou habitat is protected under the Species at Risk Act (SARA)Protected areas of endangered amphibians and reptiles such as the plains spadefoot, the red sided garder snake Protected habitats for birds such as the piping plover and the burrowing owlprotected under COSEWIC and SARA

Sensitive AreasThe Bipole III transmission line pathway will encounter some areas classified as sensitive such as permafrost landscapesagricultural landswetland habitatswoodland caribou and moose home rangesForested landscapes that are managed by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), and the Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI)Critical AreasThe Bipole III transmission line project may intersect areas that are critical to the life history of a species such as woodland caribou and moose habitat that are identified by the Environmental Act License. The intersection of PTH #6 and PTH #39 near Ponton, south of the Pas in the vicinity of PTH60. The Bipole III transmission line corridor lies within 100m of the Lake Winnipegosis Salt Flats which is 2km away from the Ecological Reserve east of PTH #10.

Land and Resource UseThe Bipole III Transmission line corridor covers a long stretch of land and therefore is in the area and region of land and resource uses such as:Agricultural LandPrivate propertyWildlife management areasProvincial and National Parks (close proximity)First Nations territory (reserved lands, traditional land entitlement)Traditional resource management areasCrowned landsWaterways used for transportation

Valued Ecosystem ComponentsIt is necessary for the Bipole III Transmission line project to select environmental indicators with measurable parameters. The valued ecosystem components that will be addressed will include:Aquatic EcosystemsSurface water (streams, rivers, lakes)WetlandsFish and fish habitatGround waterSoil QualityCompactionPermafrost conditionsValued Ecosystem ComponentsTerrestrial EcosystemsWildlife habitats and management areasWoodland caribouMoosePiping ploverRiparian ZonesUnique landscape featuresBoreal forestCommunity Lifestyle and Culture

Environmental Components and AttributesThis section will identify the major components of the environment as well as the attributes and how they may be affected by the Bipole III Transmission line project.

GeographyTerrain can be degraded through project activities. De-forestation and the disruption of agricultural landsdegradation in meters squared. Bedrock excavation and blasting causing erosion of landscapes and fragmentation of species.Levels of exposure through meters squared.

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www.professionaltreefelling.co.zaBoreal ForestFragmentationPatchinessCorridorsHabitat degradation or alteration.This can lead to extirpation of valued wildlife such as woodland caribou or perhaps even further endangerment to the species.

uniter.caSoilSoil conditions can be affected by compaction from project equipment, infrastructure, buildings, and structures. Overland floodingReduce rooting capabilities Measure soil porosityContamination by hazardous materials.Measure pH levels A portion of the project will also encounter landscapes that contain permafrost. Removal of the active layer of soil exposing the permafrost.

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www.rrsd.mb.caBirds and Bird HabitatWetland habitat can be altered by drainage of lands for project development. This causes loss of waterfowl habitat and the function of the landscape. Indicated by reduction of biodiversity through counts and surveys. Piping plover is an endangered species. Loss of habitat may lead to extirpationMeasured by species abundance through population counts.

pubs.usgs.govwasagalife.comVegetationPrairie grasses affected by land clearing reduces the amount of native prairie grasses can encourage the growth of invasive species. Indicated through biodiversity changes by plot surveys. Riparian zonesClearing of vegetation causing unstable bank slopes Increases sedimentation levels in water bodies. Measured through light penetration levels to water body floors.

Ground WaterImpacted by contamination from erosion causing sedimentation as well as any potential risks of hazardous material leaks.PH levels can be used to measure water toxicityLight penetration levels to determine the amount of sedimentation. Potential risk that aquifer charge/re-charge can be altered through soil compaction Reduces the amount of surface water that can percolate to the aquifer. Measured through the mass balance approach by measuring inputs and outputs.

water.usgs.govThe Bipole III Transmission line project will be broken down in to specific components to enable the identification of how specific activities can affect the local and regional environment. Project Information Components and ActivitiesTransportation of Construction Materials Infrastructure construction such as roadsClearing and leveling of landscapes followed by road and pathway construction. Use of heavy equipmentTransportation of major parts for the erection of the transmission lines.Transportation of dangerous goodschemicals, herbicides, fuels and oil

www.borealbirds.orgClearing Transmission Line CorridorTopographical maps and orthophotos of suitable scales, descriptions and drawings showing the locations of the proposed routing for the corridor.Bulldozing through trees and vegetation, leveling which may include blasting bedrock will be done in the corridor path. Herbicide useRemoval of cleared vegetation

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commonsensecanadian.caCamp Setup Cleared area for the placement of trailers (living quarters) and materials. Trailers and materials are transported in and established. Trailers are leveledKitchens are installed and stockedSewage tanks are installed in the ground, Power generators are installed

www.discoverymining.caConstruction of Bipole III Transmission TowersErection of the transmission towers along the cleared 1,364km corridor. Heavy equipment use (contracted)Electrical crews and lines-men install the power lines and electrical components. Heavy equipment useFuel and oil tanks located near the active project site for the heavy equipment. Tool trailers at the active sites easy access to the tools and materials they need to complete their tasks.

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construction-engineering-centre.comInteractions and Environmental EffectsProject activities and environmental actions will be identified and qualified. The important interactions including the direct and indirect effects of project activities on the environment. Interaction MatrixEnvironmental ComponentsNo interaction Beneficial +Adverse -Important O Project ActivitiesTransport of MaterialsClear Route for Transmission lineConstruction of TowersCamp set-upInfrastructure (temp)Power line set upMaintenanceDecommissioningTerrain-O--+Bedrock---Permafrost----Soil-----+ConifersO---+Riparian Zones---Grasses---+Water Quality-----Fish Population-----Aquifer charge/recharge---Woodland CaribouO----+MooseO----+Wetlands--Piping plover-Air Quality-----+Legislative and Policy FrameworkThe Bipole III Transmission Reliability Project has a large spatial scale that will trigger certain environmental Acts and regulationsThere are federal and provincial Acts and regulations that will require environmental licensing before construction can begin

Environmental DescriptionBackground OverviewIncludes land, water, air, organic, and inorganic matter, animals and humans.Understanding the environmental baseline for Bipole III is important in identifying Significant featuresGeographic areasValued Ecosystem Components (VEC)The term environment encompasses many components of the Earth including land, air, water, organic and inorganic matter, and humans. Describing the environmental baseline for Bipole III transmission corridor is a significant part of the assessment process as it describes the environmental quality, as well as the environmental effects of the proposed alternatives. It is also important to identify environmentally significant features, geographic areas, and valued ecosystem components (VECs) that may be adversely affected by the Bipole III transmission corridor. Looking at the environmental baseline will provide insight so environmental effects can be identified, described, measured and evaluated. The main focus of the assessment will be placed on the VECs for it is impossible to describe or quantify all aspects. To properly describe the environment situated with the Bipole III Transmission Line Project, the environment will be broken down into a number of sections and corresponding sub-sections to better understand assessment aspects.

28Environmental DescriptionBackground OverviewEnvironmental DescriptionThe transmission line creates fragmentation through large portion of the boreal forest, prairies, bogs, and agricultural farmlandThe Transmission line creates corridors for wildlife areasSpecial FeaturesLarge regional area requiring different approaches and mitigation plansMain CharacteristicsLarge portion of clearing in undisturbed ecosystemCreates short term and long term effects throughout entire projectLand/Resource UseClearingConstructionHabitat fragmentationOther Relevant InformationCommunity life is effected: trapping, fishing, hunting, and recreational useEffects sensitive areas of critical habitatEnvironmental Description: Large portion of boreal forest creates corridor for wildlife various geographical areas including boreal forest, prairies, bogs, agriculture.Special Features: Because of length of project, landscape/ geographic areas differs resulting in different approaches/plans. Main Characteristics: Bare strip through (clearing) currently relatively undisturbed ecosystem, which will disturb various ecotypes setup of towers throughout cleared area. Project will have short term and long term effects throughout all stages of the project life. Land/Resource Use: clearing forest, work camp set up along site, blasting in certain areas of line for line/road, construction of line will affect agriculture Other Relevant Information: Communities along the entirety of the transmission line will be affected. Certain aspects of community life will be impacted from the project, such as trapping, fishing, hunting, and recreational use. The transmission line goes through various sensitive areas of critical habitat such as caribou, and moose habitat. Some of the sensitive areas for moose include Duck Mountains and Porcupine Hill.

29Environmental DescriptionBackground OverviewEnvironmental IssuesLocal IssuesIncreased hunting and poaching due to access roadsLoss of livelihoods of Aboriginal and local farms due to the expropriation of landCorridor creation increasing predation of sensitive species Public ConcernsNoise pollution, aesthetics, woodland caribou population loss, cost of project, and infringement on Aboriginal Treaty rightsInformation RequirementsPrivate property boundariesProtected areas present and futureRegional IssuesInfringement on Aboriginal rights or Treaty RightsEndangered species Protected AreasEnvironmental SensitivitiesCaribou and moose populationsCulturally significant sitesBodies of water and adjoining aquifers

Environmental Issues

Local Issues: Clearing of land to build the transmission line increases hunting and poaching due to a majority of issues. One of the ways hunting and poaching is increased is due to a multitude of access roads that provide easy access to untouched hunting grounds. Because many of the areas did not permit hunting, many of the animals are not use to hunting which in turn increases hunting.

Local people feel that construction may constitute a loss of livelihood. The transmission line intersects farmland throughout all the entire transmission line. Farmers have concerns of how much land they will lose and how much compensation they will receive for the expropriation of their land.

Aboriginal communities also are under the assumption that the transmission line will have a heavy impact on their livelihoods. The transmission line will cut through traditional hunting and trapping areas that Aboriginal communities depend upon for subsidence. The corridors created by the transmission line may also increase predator activities for sensitive animals. The construction of the transmission line will increase predation of sensitive species such as caribou and moose. In order to prevent increased predation following the Species at Risk Act can help mitigate the problem.Public Concerns: Public concerns consist of: externalities such as noise pollution, aesthetics, woodland caribou population, cost of project on tax payers dollars, route on west side of Lake Winnipeg, and infringement on Aboriginal Treaty Rights.

Information Requirements: Geographic range of endangered species like woodland caribou. Geographic areas of trap-line locations must be established before construction. All geographic landscape types must be taken into consideration before construction. Private property boundaries and protected areas (present and future), must be taken into consideration.

Regional Issues: There may be infringement on Aboriginal Rights and/or Treaty Rights. Reserve land may also be impacted from the construction of the transmission line. Endangered species, for instance woodland caribou and moose populations may be impact along the entirety of the transmission line. Protected areas may be impacted by the spread of invasive species that may get introduced into the area, where as they were not formerly present.Environmental Sensitivities: Caribou and moose population ranges may be impacted. Culturally significant sites need to be identified by Aboriginals before construction takes place. Bodies of water and adjoining or adjacent aquifers must be taken into considerations such as: Lake Winnipegosis Salt Flats, ecological reserves, adjacent springs, prairie ecological sites, and rare features of Stephens Lake

30Environmental DescriptionBackground OverviewInformation deficienciesExact method of clearing the path for the transmission line is unclearPublic opinions are unclear and hard to distinguishExact location of migratory species ranges are unclearPopulation data and distributions are unclearInformation Deficiencies: Exact method of clearing the path for the transmission line is unclear. Public opinions are unclear and hard to distinguish due to the scale of the project. Exact locations of woodland caribou and moose ranges are unclear, there is not enough data on population distributions31Environmental DescriptionBackground OverviewPrerequisite ActionsUnderstanding the geographical area Pre-consultation actions to collaboration with direct stakeholders Collaboration between the federal government and Aboriginal communities due to sec. 35 of the constitutionGIS mapping to outline alternative routes for the transmission line. Legislation/ regulation, and licensing and permits should be in place to counter any issues that may arise.

Subsequent ActionsContinuous monitoring of vegetation growth near transmission lineContinuous monitoring of species use of corridors

Prerequisite Actions: Picking a route for the transmission line requires understanding of the geographical area. Pre-consultation actions must be in collaboration with direct stakeholders to gain knowledge of the stakeholders views, on transmission line routes. The proponent must also collaborate with the federal government on the duty to consult with Aboriginal communities due to sec. 35 of the constitution. GIS mapping should outline all alternative routes for the transmission line. Legislation/ regulation, and licensing and permits should be in place to counter any issues that may arise.Subsequent Actions: Continuous monitoring of the transmission line, rehabilitation of trail access roads; Ex: pre-existing vegetation, continuous monitoring of vegetation growth near lines, and continuous monitoring of species use of the new pathways created by the transmission line.

32Environmental DescriptionValued Ecosystem Components (VECs)Value ecosystem components include:Birds, aquatic ecosystems, air, noise pollution, soil issues/quality, terrestrial animals, amphibians, and reptiles

Bird Species such as the Piping Plover and burrowing owl may suffer habitat or nest damage duet to collisions with power line development and poaching through increased road access

Aquatic ecosystems, including hydrology of surface water may affect municipalities via drinking water sources such as lakes, rivers and streams. Air and noise pollution from construction affects: residents, recreational users, and animals Includes noise, dust, and GHGs.

There are many VECs affected by the proposed project, which include the following: birds, aquatic ecosystems, air and noise pollution, soil issues/quality affecting farmers/residence/Aboriginal groups, terrestrial animals, along with amphibians and reptiles.

Bird species, ex. Piping Plover and Burrowing owl (Species at Risk) may suffer habitat or nest damage due to collisions with power line development and poaching through increased road access. Collisions with transmission lines, Increased hunting through increased access, Habitat/nesting damage

Aquatic ecosystems, including hydrology of surface water may affect municipalities via drinking water sources such as lakes, rivers and streams. Air and noise pollution resulting from construction affects residents and recreational users as well as animals which include noise, dust, and GHGs. Municipalities may obtain water from: lakes, rivers, streams that might be affectedAboriginal communities rely on ecosystems for subsidence

Soil issues and quality can affect drainage, act as a pathway affecting other aquatic and terrestrial VECs, as well as exposing people to soil borne diseases. Terrestrial animals are important representatives of non-human biota present near project sites, and also have cultural significance to Aboriginal communities. Finally, amphibians and reptiles may experience habitat loss and fragmentation, including disturbances to habitat (Manitoba Hydro).

33Environmental DescriptionValued Ecosystem Components (VECs)

Terrestrial animals are important representatives of non-human biota present near project sites, and also have cultural significance to Aboriginal communities. Amphibians and reptiles may experience habitat loss and fragmentation, including disturbances to habitat Soil issues and quality can affect drainage, act as a pathway affecting other aquatic and terrestrial VECs, as well as exposing people to soil borne diseases. Woodland CaribouRed-Sided Garter SnakePlains Spade FootSoil issues and quality can affect drainage, act as a pathway affecting other aquatic and terrestrial VECs, as well as exposing people to soil borne diseases. Terrestrial animals are important representatives of non-human biota present near project sites, and also have cultural significance to Aboriginal communities. Finally, amphibians and reptiles may experience habitat loss and fragmentation, including disturbances to habitat (Manitoba Hydro).

. Terrestrial animals are important representatives of non-human biota present near project sites, and also have cultural significance to Aboriginal communities. Finally, amphibians and reptiles may experience habitat loss and fragmentation, including disturbances to habitat (Manitoba Hydro).

34Public ConsultationPublic ConcernsCost of project increasing from $1 billion to $4 billion.Importance: Impacts taxpayers dollars and the transmission line might have a reduced capability, due to reduced security and lossesFormer VP of Will Tishinski from Winnipeg Free Press

Extra traffic during construction causing damage to habitats and scaring off animals.Importance: The transmission line goes through important sensitive sites to the community, clear cutting of the land may cause habitat damage, and extirpate animals from the area.Camperville Community Council

Local Caribou herds may experience negative impacts.IMPORTANCE: Project could impact caribou populations, the movement and behaviors are sensitive to disturbances such as sound pollutionTataskweyak Cree Nation

Treaty Land Entitlements are in close proximity to the project.The transmission line could violate TLE regulations and effect Aboriginal way of lifeYork Factory First Nation

A number of different groups have addressed a number of concerns regarding the Bipole III transmission line. Cost of project increasing from $1 billion to $4 billion.

IMPORTANCE: The Transmission line might have a reduced capability, due to reduced security and losses.SOURCE: Former VP of Will Tishinski from Winnipeg Free Press

Extra traffic during construction causing damage to habitats and scaring off animals.

IMPORTANCE: The transmission line goes through important sensitive sites to the community. Clear cutting of the land may cause habitat damage, and extirpate animals from the area.SOURCE: Camperville Community Council

Local Caribou herds may experience negative impacts.

IMPORTANCE: Caribou populations are on the decline and the project could further impact caribou populations. The movement and behaviors are sensitive to disturbances and the transmission line could further impact caribou populationsSOURCE: Tataskweyak Cree Nation

Treaty Land Entitlements are in close proximity to the project.

IMPORTANCE: The transmission line could violate TLE regulations.SOURCE: York Factory First Nation

35Public ConsultationPublic ConcernsSeveral concerns relating to water safety, drainage, and aquifer stability.Lack of understanding the long term impacts.Clean Air Commission MBCurrent proposed transmission route unreliableThere may be an increase in tax payers monthly bill paymentsThere may be an increase in power outagesClean Environment Commission MB

Negative disturbances on Mtis land that already has significant environmental impacts.The Mtis appealed environmental license because Mtis rights were not meaningfully addressed.Manitoba Mtis FederationCurrent route location will affect farmland. Aerial spraying affects quality of agriculture produce, constructing the line decreased arable land for farmersManitoba Farmers

Several concerns relating to water safety, drainage, and aquifer stability.

IMPORTANCE: Lack of understanding the long term impacts.SOURCE: Clean Air Commission MB

Current proposed transmission route unreliable.

IMPORTANCE: There may be an increase in tax papers monthly bill payments. There may also be increased power outages.SOURCE: Clean Environment Commission MB

Negative disturbances on Mtis land that already has significant environmental impacts.

IMPORTANCE: The Mtis appealed environmental license because Mtis rights were not meaningfully addressed.SOURCE: Manitoba Mtis Federation

Current route location will affect farmland.

IMPORTANCE: Aerial spraying affects quality of agriculture produce. Constructing the transmission line decreases the amount of viable land for farmers. Farmers also have to avoid transmission towers that are placed on their crop land. SOURCE: Manitoba Farmers36Public ConsultationStakeholdersFarmers and private land owners: Route of transmission line results in expropriation of property concerned with chemicals used to treat vegetation near lines. Community Council: Concerned with employment during Bipole III and potential income. When project is finished many people will be unemployed (green crimes).York Factory First Nation: Concerned with infringement on traditional and Aboriginal treaty rights, York Factory believes that it is in the vicinity of the project, and indicated the community undertakes a range of activities in the project area (Manitoba Government, 2013). York factory also wants to contribute to the project due to having treaty land entitlement (TLE) selection in close proximity to the project (Manitoba Government, 2013).Tataskweyak Cree Nation: Concerned with the access roads interfering with TEK and treaty and Aboriginal rights. Concern with the preliminary preferred route including: opening up undisturbed areas, cabin locations, lack of proper compensation (Manitoba Government, 2013).Manitoba Government: Tax dollars are funding Bipole III Reality Project. Protected areas and Provincial Parks are influenced by project.Federal Government: Endangered species are protected under Species at Risk Act (SARA). Large scale project may deal with cross-boundary jurisdictions ex. Migratory birds and caribou.NGOS: Ducks Unlimited are concerned about the drainage of wetlands and migratory birds.Mineral exploration license holders and mining claim holders: Effects on excavating and harvesting of minerals in mines positioned near transmission lines.

37Public ConsultationPublic Consultation Strategies/TechniquesDifferent stakeholders must be consulted with and taken into careful consideration in the planning phaseStrategies to best cater to the needs, requests and opinions of the affected stakeholders regarding all aspects of the project are outlined In the table below, we can see a number of different parties that must be consulted with and taken into careful consideration in the project planning. Strategies to best cater to the needs, requests and opinions of the affected parties regarding all aspects of the project are also outlined to best include them in the planning.

Engage direct community councilsPrint materials like publications, books, or pamphlets (Sustaining Family Forest Initative, 2009)Newsletters, magazines, or newspapers (Sustaining Family Forest Initative, 2009)

Building relations and negotiating agreements to be able to build on private land.38Public ConsultationPublic Consultation Strategies/Techniques39Public ConsultationMitigation Measures in place to Address Public ConcernsAvoid Woodland CaribouGIS home ranges of woodland caribou to avoid habitat destruction in sensitive areas

Alternative RouteChoose least destructive route, use overlay mapping to create alternative routes

Improve EfficiencyKnowledgeable staff to increase efficiency and equipment use. Proper planning and strategies to prevent additional costs to project

CEC Hearing & Aboriginal ConsultationBuild meaningful relations and partnerships to negotiate with affected Aboriginal communities

Operate During Appropriate Hours Near CommunitiesOnly operate from 07:00 to 20:00 to keep citizens happy and on board with project.

Environmental impact assessment:Identify and mitigate adverse effects where possibleMitigation Measures in Place to Address Public ConcernsAvoid Woodland Caribou: GIS of home ranges of woodland caribou too avoid habitat destruction in core areas.Alternative Route: Choose least destructive route even though it may be a longer one. Use overlay mapping to create alternative routes.Improve Efficiency: More knowledgeable staff to increase efficiency and equipment use. Proper planning and strategies to prevent additional costs to project. CEC Hearing & Aboriginal Consultation: Build meaningful relations and partnerships to negotiate with affected Aboriginal peoples. Operate During Appropriate Hours Near Communities: Only operate from 07:00 to 20:00 to keep citizens happy and on board with project.Environmental impact assessment: Identify and mitigate adverse effects where possible.

40Public ConsultationOutstanding Public ConcernsHealth of local communities including impacts by traditional hunting, fishing, and gather landsCreate socioeconomic monitoring plansMitigate construction activities

Impacts on spawning areas and aquatic habitatsBuffers between riparian areas, no fuel storage near waterways, avoid working near sensitive spawning areas

Vegetation ManagementUse other means than chemical use to control for weeds ( eco-friendly biodegradable chemicals

Compensation for trappingIdentify sensitive sites, compensation due to relocation of trap-lines, biophysical monitoring plan

Environmentally anaesthetically pleasingCreate land hills to minimize the sight of the transmission line

1. Health of local communities including impacts by traditional hunting, fishing, and gathering lands.Create socioeconomic monitoring plan Make sure all construction activities are monitored.

2. Impacts on spawning areas and aquatic habitats.Buffers between riparian areasNo fuel storage near waterwaysAvoid working near sensitive spawning areas

3. Vegetation management.Other means of weed control under power lines other than chemical useMowingEco-friendly biodegradable chemicals4. Compensation for trappingIdentify sensitive sitesCompensation provided for a period of time due to relocation of trap-lineBiophysical Monitoring plan

Environmentally aesthetically pleasing: The transmission line creates an eye some for recreational and tourist users of the land. Many private landowners do not want the transmission in their backyard. Some communities do not want to look at the transmission line, it does not have an aesthetic appeal.

41Mitigation MeasuresAdverse Environmental Effect (requiring mitigation)Mitigation MeasuresResidual Environmental Effect(measured in quantitative parameters)Loss of trees/vegetationchoose least destructive routesite assessments to evaluate ESSsper acre of trees/vegetationaverage tree countSoil compactionlimiting amount of area that is clear cut and areas where heavy vehicles will be presentsurface and sub-surface measurements using pentrometer to measure water penetration resistanceRemoval of soil insulating permafrostdo not disturb/remove vegetationsave removed top soil and replace elsewhereper acre measurementUnique terrainchoose area with less impact on terrainper acre measurementLoss of bedrockavoid areas with most sensitivityper acre of vegetation/riparian areas480 km of fragmented forestavoid areas with most sensitivityper acre of vegetationDisplacement of ungulate speciesGIS territoryMaintaining wildlife corridorsPopulation countGIS tracking collarsLoss of bedrockControlled blasting activityHave enough backfill for resplacementvolume per 1mEnvironmental Consequence After MitigationDirect Environmental EffectsAssessment CriteriaScoreEcological ContextGeographic ExtentMagnitudeFrequencyDurationReversibility0 to 100 to 50 to 50 to 50 to 50 to 50 to 35Loss of trees and vegetation64415525Soil Compaction54433322Removal of active layer above permafrost52433522Unique terrain disruption42311314Loss of bedrock33331316Loss of riparian stability & sedimentation74344325Loss of water body43323318480 km of forest fragmentation75415527Displacement of ungulate species94445531Environmental Attributes/VECsImportance ValueProject ActivitySum Of ScoresConsequenceScore (SumXImportance)ConsequencesScoreTransport materialsTransmission lineConstruction of towersCamp Set upTemporary InfrastructurePower line set upMaintenanceDecommissioningNo effect0Negligible effect1Minor effect2Moderate effect3Major effect 4Severe effect5Terrain114500302115165Bedrock504011000630Permafrost6035120001166Soil6245110021590Conifers20050210109180Riparian Zones1013001000550Woodland Caribou214442232324504Air Quality421111101832Moose112442232322242Aquifer Drainage/Recharge611001001424Total100Effectiveness of MitigationProject is very large scaleleast destructive route (avoidance)Long term project (100 years plus) it needs to be continuously monitored and maintained. Rectification of the landscape cannot be done for a long time so long term monitoring of environmental effects from the project is a good compromise and could better inform future projects of similar nature. Effectiveness of MitigationAssessment every year for the first 10 years to validate compliance and effectiveness of the mitigation measures.After the initial 10 years of assessments, they will continue every 5 years with non-periodical audits. Learning purposes so that if the plans need to be reiterated, the assessment will adapt to the changing parameters. Funding of wildlife/construction relationship research is an example that can help this process be more efficient. CompensationInformation would be very beneficial for the use of similar projects happening elsewhere and would help improve environmental assessment processes of different projects and proponents.

Cumulative EffectsStudy area : First Nations lands, water quality, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, habitat loss/alteration, riparian zones, and hydrology Other project actions: future roads, present agricultural land intersecting transmission route, and future mining projects

Potential Cumulative Environmental Effectsloss of trees and vegetation soil compaction removal of vegetation insulating permafrostlandscape integrityloss of bedrock riparian stability 480km of fragmented forestdisplacement of ungulate speciesLoss of trees and vegetation: loss of food and shelter for organisms, displacement, and possible extirpation. Soil compaction: may lead to overland flooding and changes in ecosystem dynamics. Removal of vegetation insulating permafrost: increased melting via positive feedback system, and the release of GHGs into the atmosphere contributing to global warming. Loss of Unique terrain: effects on biodiversity, for example loss of beach ridges. Loss of bedrock has potential cumulative effects due to formation of destabilized slopes, increased water erosion, and therefore increasing fish mortality. Riparian stability including loss of vegetation and sedimentation: reducing nutrient input in lakes and rivers for aquatic food webs. Drastic forest fragmentation: species habitat and population reduction, isolation of vegetation communities, and increased exposure to severe weather patterns. Ungulate species: include corridor creation leading to displacement, increased predation, and increased hunting (Manitoba Hydro).

49Cumulative Environmental Effects of Biopole IIIProject Activities for Proposed ActionAirshedGroundwaterSurface waterFishWildlifeVegetationSocioeconomicAir QualityAquifersQualityWetlandsRiparianHabitatHealthCaribouMooseBoreal forestAgricultureAboriginal rightsCommunityTransport of materialsClear route for transmission lineConstruction of towerCamp siteInfrastructurePower line setupMaintenanceDecommissioningList of Bipole III project activities, including proposed environmental effects on airshed, groundwater, surface water, fish, wildlife, vegetation, and socioeconomic effects. A dot indicates where a project activity may interact with an environmental component causing a negative environmental effect. It is proposed that project activities will have the greatest effect on wildlife and the least effect on aquifers.

50Cumulative Environmental Effects of other Project ActivitiesProject Activities for all other ActionsAirshedGroundwaterSurface waterFishWildlifeVegetationSocioeconomicAir QualityAquifersQualityWetlandsRiparianHabitatHealthCaribouMooseBoreal forestAgricultureAboriginal rightsCommunityHighwaysAgriculture/MinesList of Bipole III project activities for other actions, including proposed environmental effects on airshed, groundwater, surface water, fish, wildlife, vegetation, and socioeconomic effects. A dot indicates where another project action may interact with an environmental component causing a negative environmental effect. Larger dots indicate cumulative effects. Mines affect ground water by leaching of toxic chemicals, affect the boreal forest by clearing of trees and noise production, affect Aboriginal rights due to contamination and displacement of food sources, and affect riparian zones by leaching toxins and heavy metals into the river system. Therefore mines could cause the greatest cumulative environmental effects. On the other hand, agriculture affects the drainage of wetlands which essential increases run off leading to eutrophication in lakes and rivers. Agriculture also affects fish habitat and health causing displacement and decreased oxygen levels due to the increased eutrophication. 51Residual Environmental EffectsResidual Environmental EffectsEvaluation factorSignificanceEcological ValueSocietal ValueGeographic ExtentMagnitudeFrequencyDurationReversibilityTerrain and soil compaction2233323L/MTerrestrial vegetation4443443MMammals and mammal habitat4433223MAquatic Ecosystems1333223MLoss of Boreal forests4354155M/HDisplacement of ungulate species5444455M/HEvaluation of significance of residual environmental effects. Environmental factors include ecological value, societal value, geographic extent, magnitude, frequency, duration, and reversibility. One is low, and five is high. Loss of boreal forests and displacement of ungulate species has the highest significance, and terrain and soil compaction have the lowest significance.52Cumulative Effects Follow-upTerrain and soil compactionMeasure vegetation and land productivitysemi-annual monitoring of forests and crops

Terrestrial vegetation re-vegetation in decommissioned sitesareas susceptible to erosion

Mammals and mammal habitatmonitoring and analysis via GPS collaringAquatic Ecosystemswater quality monitoringDrainage monitoringSite restoration

Loss of Boreal forestsregeneration plan

Displacement of ungulate speciesmonitoring and analysis via GPS collaring or re-introduction

Terrain and soil compactionMeasure vegetation and land productivitysemi-annual monitoring of forests and crops using areal and ground surveysTerrestrial vegetationdecommissioned sites will require re-vegetation in areas where vegetation has completely been removed and in areas susceptible to erosionMammals and mammal habitatongoing linear monitoring and analysis of caribou and moose via GPS collaringAquatic Ecosystemsincludes water quality monitoring, assuring structures do not inhibit drainage, and restoration of sites to the natural condition through development of temporary and permanent facilities Loss of Boreal forestsportions destroyed for access roads and motorized vehicles. A regeneration plan will be created for 10-30 yearsDisplacement of ungulate speciesmonitoring and analysis pre and post construction via GPS collaring or re-introductionDue to the long terms cumulative effects on a regional scale, there will be long-term monitoring and mitigation measures. To make sure the mitigation measures are being implemented there will be a re-evaluation every five years to make sure the mitigation measures are working with environmental effects that are more severe such as wildlife and conservation. There needs to be more vigorous monitoring plan with 10-50 year assessments. 53SignificanceAdverse environmental effectsloss of trees and vegetation soil compaction removal of vegetation insulating permafrostloss of bedrock riparian stability and sedimentation480km of fragmented forestdisplacement of ungulate species

Non-adverse environmental effectslandscape integrityLoss of water bodiesThere are numerous environmental effects which have adverse impacts on the environment. Adverse residual environmental effects include loss of trees and vegetation, soil compaction, removal of vegetation insulating permafrost, loss of vegetation, riparian stability and sedimentation, 480km of forest fragmentation, displacement of ungulate species, and loss of bedrock. Others are not adverse which include unique terrain and loss of water bodies. Loss of trees and vegetation is an adverse residual environmental effect because trees act as a carbon sink and reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs), provide habitat for organisms, and restoration of habitat back to the environmental baseline could take decades. Soil compaction is an adverse residual effect because soil compaction decreases water absorption leading to increased run off and flooding. Removal of vegetation insulating permafrost is an adverse residual effect because removal of the vegetative layer above permafrost exposes the dark soil causing melting via positive feedback. Melting also results in drastic alterations to the landscape and release of GHGs. Loss of vegetation, riparian stability and sedimentation are adverse residual effects because sedimentation in water bodies increases turbidity, and reduces available nutrients by prohibiting photosynthesis which is vital for aquatic ecosystem survival. Hundreds of acres of forest fragmentation is an adverse residual environmental effect because it reduces species diversity and abundance, increases predation, as well as alters species home ranges and migration. Displacement of ungulate species is an adverse residual effect due to their endangered and threatened status (Species at Risk). Increased corridor creation not only leads to loss of habitat but also increased hunting and predation. Loss of bedrock is an adverse residual environmental effect because it causes ground destabilization, and increased risk of sedimentation which can lead to aquatic species mortality (Manitoba Hydro). Unique terrain is not an adverse residual environmental effect because it will only alter landscape appearance and may slightly decrease biodiversity, but without causing significant effects to the environment. Loss of water bodies is also not an adverse residual environmental effect because they can be restored, such as wetland restoration.54Likelihood of Significant Adverse EffectsEnvironmental EffectLikelihoodSignificanceLoss of trees/vegetation and fragmentationHVast area of Boreal forest clearedPrevent encroachmentDisplacement of ungulate speciesM-HThreatened and endangered speciesSoil compactionMConstruction and maintenanceRemoval of vegetation insulating permafrostL-MRelevant only in northern extremesRiparian stability sedimentationL-MAvoid proximity to waterways and sensitive areasUnique terrain and loss of bedrockLmitigationLoss of trees and vegetation, as well as 480km of fragmented forest has a high likelihood of being significant, because the transmission line passes through vast amounts of boreal forest which has to be cleared to prevent trees coming in contact with the transmission line. Loss of trees and vegetation is initially high, and will remain high due to the life of the project. Secondly, displacement of ungulate species has a medium-high likelihood of significance due to the large amounts of fragmentation affecting endangered and threatened species including moose and woodland caribou (Species at Risk). Soil compaction has a medium likelihood because vehicles and equipment will be driven over the same area numerous times during construction and maintenance. Removal of vegetation insulation permafrost and loss of vegetation, riparian stability and sedimentation have low-medium likelihood of causing significant adverse effects. Effects on permafrost are only a relevant concern in northern extremes of the project. Losses of vegetation, riparian stability, and sedimentation have mitigation measures in place to avoid close proximity to waterways, or avoid areas of importance. Unique terrain and loss of bedrock have low likelihood of a significant adverse environmental effect. The project path attempts to avoid sensitive areas, and there are mitigation measures in place to replace bedrock following a blasting event.

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