Expected changes to the way Canada performs environmental assessments for major projects could speed up the proposal to build a sand and gravel mine at McNab Creek in West Howe Sound.
An assessment for the project, proposed by Burnco Rock Products Ltd., began April 27, 2010. A Burnco Aggregate Mine could have a capacity of between one and 1.6 million tonnes per year and the proposal has the development situated on the northwest shore of Howe Sound.
The federal government has set its sights on regulatory reform as a means of stimulating economic growth in the country, by eliminating duplication and delays.
"There will be transition measures in the proposed legislation outlining how the changes would affect projects for which reviews are already underway, such as the proposed Burnco Aggregate Mine," said Jacinthe Perras, a spokesperson with Natural Resources Canada.
One of several public comment periods ended Feb. 3 and the assessment process turned toward draft environmental impact statement (EIS) guidelines on Feb. 6.
Once Aboriginal consultation on the draft guidelines is completed and forwarded to the proponent, Burnco, the EIS will move toward a public commentary period before once again receiving Aboriginal consultation.
After those guidelines are established, it is expected that a corporate social responsibility will be developed involving Aboriginal and public stakeholders, as well as Burnco.
In January, 2012, directors at the Sunshine Coast Regional District were taken by surprise at the extent of the project's progress.
Burnco proposed a marine loading facility and on-site processing in addition to the actual mine.
McNab Creek is considered a high quality salmon habitat by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), one that includes spawning streams for coho and chum.
Prior to the end of the Feb. 2012 public comment period, a spokesperson from DFO toldCoast Reporterthat the agency was still involved in the assessment process after having their noted concerns "satisfied" by reports from the proponent.
The federal government's new approach to the regulatory process is expected to identify specific projects that would require a review.
A website that addresses some common concerns about the changes stresses that the "environmental assessment process will be just as rigorous as the one that is now in place. In fact, it will be stronger.
"It will focus federal resources on higher risk projects. Second, it will strengthen enforcement and compliance tools including pipeline and tanker safety. And third, the new system will provide for public participation for environmental assessments and meaningful consultation with Aboriginal peoples," the material referenced by Perras reads.
How risky the Burnco project is considered to be by the federal government remains to be seen but, said Perras, "the proposed legislation will provide more information on projects that would be on (the major projects list)."
The proposal was first brought forward to DFO in 2009.
Since June, 2010, the proposal met with over a year's worth of delays as it moved through the current environmental assessment process.
