Highway 37 Power Line Project Takes Another Step
By 250 News
Friday, January 29, 2010 03:59 AM
Prince George, B.C.- The Highway 37 "Northwest Transmission Line" project has submitted its application for a B.C. Environmental Assessment Certificate.
The proposed line would stretch 335 kilometres from the Skeena Substation near Terrace to a new substation to be constructed near Bob Quinn Lake on Highway 37.
The 287 kV transmission line is viewed as essential to economic growth in the region, as well as a positive step towards reducing the use of diesel powered generators.
The project is estimated to cost$404 million dollars and while both the Provincial and Federal government have announced a financial commitment, private investment in the project is anticipated.
The BC Environmental Assessment Office has up to 30 days to screen the application against the Application Information Requirements (AIR – formerly called the Terms of Reference) for the project. If the BCEAO accepts the application for review, a review process of up to 180 days will start. This will include a 45-day public comment period, during which open houses will be held.
An Environmental Assessment (EA) Certificate from the BC Environmental Assessment Office is required before the NTL can be constructed.
An Environmental Assessment (EA) Certificate from the BC Environmental Assessment Office is required before the NTL can be constructed.
The environmental assessment process involves public and First Nation consultation, as well as studies into the potential effects of the line on a wide range of biological, physical and cultural factors, including:
- Aquatic species and habitat
- Terrestrial ecosystems, vegetation and wildlife
- Land use and socio-economic/socio-community conditions
- Forestry
- Visual landscape and recreational resources
- First Nations traditional knowledge, use and related Aboriginal interests
- Heritage and archaeological resources
- Public health and safety
- Geotechnical and natural hazards
The project also needs to undergo an environmental assessment under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. Canada has delegated the conduct of the federal environmental assessment to the BCEAO. Under this arrangement, the BCEAO will undertake the procedural aspects of the federal environmental assessment. However the federal responsible authorities will retain their decision-making authority and their responsibilities for Aboriginal consultation with regard to the NTL project.
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Posted by: MrPG on January 29 2010 10:31 AM
Cheers