Comprehensive Study Report

Renard Diamond Mine Project Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

May 2013

Photo is credited to Stornoway Diamond Corporation

© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada (2013).

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Catalogue No.: En106-115/2013E-PDF

ISBN: 978-1-100-22246-2

This document has been issued in French under the title

Rapport d’étude approfondie : Projet de mine de diamants Renard.

Alternative formats may be requested by contacting [email protected]

Executive Summary water resources, fish and fish habitat, terrestrial wildlife and wildlife habitat, birds and bird Stornoway Diamond Corporation (the habitat, current use of lands and resources for proponent) proposes to develop the diamond traditional and tourism purposes as well as any deposit on the “Foxtrot property” located in the structure, site or thing that is of archaeological, Municipality of James Bay in north-central heritage or historical significance. Quebec. The project involves the development of the mine and local infrastructure such as open The Federal Environmental Assessment pits, a vertical shaft, inclined adits, a processing Committee assessed the significance of the plant, processed kimberlite containment areas, effects of the project on the basis of the an explosives storage facility, a pumping plant, information provided by the proponent in its a housing complex, an airstrip and related environmental and social impact assessment and facilities. The estimated mine life is supplementary documents, opinions provided by approximately 20 years, at an ore production federal experts, as well as comments received rate of approximately 7,000 tonnes per day. from the Council of the Cree Nation of Mistissini and the public during consultations. Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Natural Resources Canada will have to issue The Cree and the public expressed concerns authorizations and approvals under the Fisheries about the following: Act and the Explosives Act, respectively. Under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act  surface water quality, in particular in Lac (the former Act),1 a comprehensive study of the Lagopède; project is required before these authorizations  groundwater contamination; and approvals can be issued. The project also  woodland caribou; underwent a provincial environmental and  the need to establish an independent social impact assessment under section 22 of the environmental follow-up committee; James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement.  the opening up of the area and increased pressure on wildlife resources. The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency conducted the comprehensive study in The proponent agreed to implement mitigation collaboration with the Federal Environmental measures in order to reduce the project’s Assessment Committee, which consists of potential environmental effects. These measures representatives of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, include the adoption of design criteria and Natural Resources Canada, Environment construction practices intended to concentrate Canada and the Cree Regional Authority. the activities with the goal of minimizing the project’s environmental footprint, a water In the comprehensive study report, the Agency management plan, and work restrictions during presented the results of the analysis of the sensitive periods for wildlife. The proponent project’s effects on the following valued also proposes to maintain the environmental ecosystem components (VECs): air quality, working group that was established to contribute

1 The Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 (CEAA 2012) came into force on July 6, 2012, replacing the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (S.C. 1992, c. 37) (the former Act). The CEAA 2012 includes specific provisions concerning comprehensive studies commenced under the former Act, such as the Renard Diamond Mine Project, for which the federal environmental assessment was initiated under the former Act. All references to the provisions of federal environmental assessment legislation in this report reflect the requirements of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (S.C. 1992, c. 37).

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to the development of the project and the A follow-up program is required under the preparation of the environmental impact Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (S.C. statement. This group, which includes regional 1992, c. 37) in order to verify the accuracy of stakeholders in the forestry, recreation, tourism the environmental assessment and determine the and mining sectors, land use managers and effectiveness of some of the proposed mitigation representatives of the Council of the Cree measures. Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Nation of Mistissini, will be involved during all Natural Resources Canada will assume phases of the project to monitor and follow up responsibility for the follow-up program, which on the implementation of the environmental will focus on water quality, fish and fish habitat, measures. The proponent also proposes to and birds and bird habitat. implement an environmental management program which incorporates monitoring and Given the implementation of the proposed follow-up of all the human and biophysical mitigation measures and follow-up program, the valued ecosystem components (VECs) and an Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency emergency response plan in the event of concludes that the project is not likely to cause accidents or spills. significant adverse environmental effects.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction ...... 1

1.1 Overview ...... 1 1.2 Environmental Assessment Context and Process ...... 1 1.2.1 Federal environmental assessment process ...... 1 1.2.2 Other environmental assessment process ...... 2 1.2.3 Purpose of the comprehensive study report ...... 2

2. Project Scope ...... 2

2.1 Project Components ...... 3 2.2 Activities ...... 3 2.3 Schedule ...... 3

3. Scope of the Environmental Assessment ...... 4

3.1 Factors Considered ...... 4 3.2 Scope of the Factors to be Considered and Spatial and Temporal Boundaries ...... 5 3.3 Determination of Valued Ecosystem Components (VECs) ...... 5 3.4 Purpose of and Need for the Project ...... 6

4. Project Alternatives ...... 6

4.1 Alternatives ...... 6 4.1.1 Description of alternatives ...... 6 4.2 Agency’s Conclusions...... 9

5. Public and Aboriginal Consultations ...... 9

5.1 Public Consultations Conducted by the Federal Government in the Context of the Comprehensive Study ...... 9 5.2 Aboriginal Consultations Conducted by the Federal Government in the Context of the Comprehensive Study ...... 10 5.3 Provincial Consultation Activities and Collaboration ...... 11 5.4 Participation Activities Conducted by the Proponent ...... 11 5.5 Issues Raised ...... 12

6. Profile of the Environment ...... 13

6.1 Biophysical Context ...... 13 6.2 Human Context...... 13

7. Environmental Effects Assessment ...... 14

7.1 Approach ...... 14 7.2 Air Quality ...... 15

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7.2.1 Potential environmental effects ...... 15 7.2.2 Mitigation measures and residual environmental effects ...... 15 7.2.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 16 7.2.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 17 7.3 Water Quality ...... 17 7.3.1 Potential environmental effects ...... 17 7.3.2 Mitigation measures and residual environmental effects ...... 18 7.3.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 19 7.3.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 20 7.4 Fish and Fish Habitat ...... 20 7.4.1 Potential environmental effects ...... 20 7.4.2 Mitigation measures and residual environmental effects ...... 23 7.4.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 23 7.4.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 23 7.5 Terrestrial Wildlife and Its Habitat ...... 24 7.5.1 Potential environmental effects ...... 25 7.5.2 Mitigation measures and residual environmental effects ...... 26 7.5.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 26 7.5.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 26 7.6 Birds and Bird Habitat ...... 26 7.6.1 Potential environmental effects ...... 27 7.6.2 Mitigation measures and residual environmental effects ...... 28 7.6.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 29 7.6.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 29 7.7 Current Use of Lands and Resources for Traditional Purposes and Structures, Sites or Things of Archaeological, Heritage, Historical or Burial Significance ...... 29 7.7.1 Potential environmental effects ...... 30 7.7.2 Mitigation measures and residual environmental effects ...... 31 7.7.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 31 7.7.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 32 7.8 Cumulative Environmental Effects ...... 32 7.8.1 Scope ...... 32 7.8.2 Potential cumulative environment effects ...... 33 7.8.3 Mitigation measures and residual cumulative environmental effects ...... 33 7.8.4 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 34 7.8.5 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual cumulative environmental effects ...... 34 7.9 Effects of the Environment on the Project ...... 34 7.9.1 Approach...... 34 7.9.2 Potential effects...... 34 7.9.3 Mitigation measures and residual effects...... 34 7.9.4 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 35 7.9.5 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 35 7.10 Effects of Possible Accidents or Malfunctions ...... 35 7.10.1 Approach ...... 35 7.10.2 Potential effects ...... 35 7.10.3 Mitigation measures and residual effects ...... 35 7.10.4 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response ...... 36 iv CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

7.10.5 Agency’s conclusions on the significance of the residual environmental effects ...... 36 7.11 Effects on the Capacity of Renewable Resources ...... 36

8. Follow-up Program ...... 36

9. Benefits of Environmental Assessment ...... 37

10. The Agency’s Conclusion and Recommendations ...... 38

11. References ...... 38 Appendix 1: Pugh Decision Matrix Used to Analyze Airstrip Alternatives #14 and #15...... 40

Appendix 2: General Layout of Infrastructures and Mining Facilities ..... 42 Appendix 3: Evaluation Results for the Processed Kimberlite Confinement Area Site Alternatives ...... 43

Appendix 4.1: Domestic Wastewater Treatment System Alternative Analysis ...... 46

Appendix 4.2: Characteristics of the Site Alternatives for the Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant ...... 47

Appendix 4.3: Assessment Results of the Site Alternatives for the Final Effluent Discharge Point of Treated Domestic Wastewater ...... 48

Appendix 4.4: Assessment Results of the Site Alternatives for the Mine Effluent Final Discharge Point ...... 54

Appendix 5: Estimated Fish Habitat Losses Associated with the Renard Project ...... 58

Appendix 6: Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994...... 59

Appendix 7: Mitigation Measures Proposed by the Proponent ...... 60 Appendix 8: Additional Mitigation Measures relating to Fish and Fish Habitat, Proposed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada ...... 68

Appendix 9: Mistissini Traplines ...... 71

Appendix 10: Focus of the Follow-up Program ...... 72

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List of Tables

Table 2-1: Project Activities ...... 3

List of Figures

Figure 1-1: Project Location ...... 1 Figure 7-1 : Mine and Domestic Outfall Locations Selected for the Renard Diamond Project ...... 22

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1. Introduction and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA). The Renard Diamond Mine Project involves the development of the mine and local infrastructure 1.1 Overview such as open pits, a vertical shaft, inclined adits, a processing plant, processed kimberlite Stornoway Diamond Corporation (the containment areas, an explosives storage proponent) proposes to develop the diamond facility, a pumping plant, a housing complex, an deposit on the “Foxtrot property” located airstrip and other related facilities. The approximately 70 km north of the Otish estimated mine life is 20 years, at an ore Mountains region (Figure 1-1), in the production rate of approximately 7,000 tonnes Municipality of James Bay in north-central per day. Quebec. This region is subject to the James Bay

Figure 1-1: Project Location

Source: Stornoway Diamond Corporation, 2012. 1.2 Environmental Assessment Diamond Mine Project, that were undergoing Context and Process assessment before this date in accordance with the comprehensive study process are being 1.2.1 Federal environmental assessment completed under the requirements of the former process Act. On July 6, 2012, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (S.C. 1992, c. 37) (the former A federal environmental assessment under the Act) was repealed and replaced by the new former Act is necessary since, pursuant to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012 Fisheries Act and the Explosives Act, Fisheries (CEAA 2012). Projects, such as the Renard and Oceans Canada and Natural Resources

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Canada will likely have to issue authorizations opinions of federal experts, and the knowledge and approvals in order to allow the Renard provided by the Aboriginal community of Diamond Mine Project to proceed. Mistissini and other local communities. This information was taken into account to determine The project is subject to a comprehensive study whether the project is likely to cause significant environmental assessment, in accordance with adverse environmental effects. subsection 10 of the Comprehensive Study List Regulations under the former Act which reads The Agency prepared this comprehensive study as follows: report in collaboration with the Federal Environmental Assessment Committee, The proposed construction, composed of representatives of Fisheries and decommissioning or abandonment of a Oceans Canada, Environment Canada, Natural facility for the extraction of Resources Canada and the Cree Regional 200,000 m3/a or more of ground water Authority, which provided advice in their or an expansion of such a facility that respective areas of expertise. The conclusions of would result in an increase in this report are based on the results of the review production capacity of more than 35 of the proponent’s environmental and social per cent. impact assessment and on an assessment of the project’s environmental effects. 1.2.2 Other environmental assessment process The Minister of the Environment will review The project was also subject to an this report and the comments received from the environmental and social assessment by the public and Aboriginal groups before issuing the province of Quebec under section 22 of the environmental assessment decision statement. JBNQA which is also entrenched in Chapter II Before making his decision public, the Minister of the Quebec Environment Quality Act. may request additional information or require Following the recommendations of the that additional measures be taken to address the Provincial Review Committee (COMEX), the concerns of the public. Following the Provincial Administrator issued a certificate of announcement of the environmental assessment authorization for the Renard mine on December decision, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and 4, 2012, including various conditions of Natural Resources Canada will have to make implementation. their respective decisions concerning the issuance of their authorizations under section 37 The Minister of the Environment of the former Act. will review this report and the 2. Project Scope comments received from the The scope of the project for the purposes of the public and Aboriginal groups … comprehensive study includes the work and activities associated with the construction of the 1.2.3 Purpose of the comprehensive study mining infrastructure and related facilities, the report mining of the deposit and the operation and This report presents the analysis conducted by maintenance of the infrastructure, the closure the Canadian Environmental Assessment and decommissioning of the mine, as well as the Agency (the Agency) on the basis of final site restoration. documentation provided by the proponent, the

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2.1 Project Components sedimentation ponds;  A power supply system (generator sets); The general layout plan for the main project  Access roads and secondary roads; facilities is shown in Table 2-1. The proposed  An airstrip; project includes the following components:  A quarry and borrow pits.  Related facilities:  A mine including:  A housing and services complex;  Open extraction pits to mine three  A drinking water supply and treatment kimberlite pipes (R-2, R-3 and R-65); system;  A 740-m shaft and adits for underground  A domestic and mine wastewater extraction of kimberlite pipes (R-2, R-3 R- management and treatment system; 4, R-9 and R-65);  A hazardous materials management system;  An access ramp to the underground mine;  A fuel storage area with fuelling station;  An ore processing plant;  An explosives storage building.  A processed kimberlite containment area;  A waste rock stockpile and a temporary ore stockpile; 2.2 Activities  An overburden stockpile;  A drinking water supply and treatment The activities required for the construction and system; operation of the project are described in Table  A mine water management system with 2-1.

Table 2-1: Project Activities

Construction Operation Closure and restoration

 Site preparation and development  Ore extraction, handling and  Water management: runoff,  Construction of the containment and storage  Machinery and generator set use storage areas (ore, waste rock, tailings)  Ore processing and maintenance  Site clearing and levelling  Water supply  Dismantling and recycling of  Construction of access and other roads  Management of runoff, mine facilities  Operation of quarry and borrow pits drainage water, drinking water,  Final site restoration and  Drainage of lakes, rivers and streams, process water, wastewater, etc. revegetation (overburden, waste and water and sediment management  Pit development rock, and processed kimberlite  Installation of surface water and  Machinery and generator set containment areas) groundwater management system use and maintenance  Flooding of the pits (ditches, culverts, domestic and mine  Hazardous materials storage wastewater treatment systems, etc.) and management  Fuel and hazardous materials storage  Explosives storage, and management manufacturing and handling  Extraction of overburden, waste rock  Use of explosives and ore at pits R-65 and R2-R3  Airstrip operation and  Use of explosives maintenance  Phased site remediation

2.3 Schedule sets, etc.), the kimberlite processing plant, the shaft and ramp for underground activities, as The construction phase on the site will begin well as the development of the mine site. The with construction of the infrastructure proponent anticipates that the airstrip will be (permanent camps, services building, generator fully operational by December 2013.

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The proponent plans to adopt the those of the future; following schedule:  significance of the effects;  comments received from the public about these effects in accordance with the former Phase Projected period Act and the regulations; Construction 2013 to 2016  measures that are technically and Mining of the deposit 2014 to 2033 economically feasible and that would mitigate any significant adverse environmental effects Mine closure and 2033 to 2035 restoration of the project;  the need for, and the requirements of, a

follow-up program in respect of the project.

3. Scope of the Environmental As subsection 16(1)(e)1 of the former Act Assessment allows, the Agency also asked the proponent to describe the need for and the project and The scope of the environmental assessment alternatives to the project. establishes the framework and limits of the analysis conducted by the Agency. An environmental effect, as defined in the former Act, is any change that the project may cause in the environment, including any change 3.1 Factors Considered it may cause to a listed wildlife species, its critical habitat or the residences of individuals Pursuant to subsections 16(1) and 16(2) of the of that species, as those terms are defined in former Act, the Agency has taken into subsection 2(1) of the Species at Risk Act, any consideration the following factors: effect of any such changes on health and socio- economic conditions, the current use of lands  the purpose of the project; and resources for traditional purposes by  alternative means of carrying out the project Aboriginal persons, or any structure, site or that are technically and economically feasible thing that is of historical, archaeological, and the environmental effects of any such paleontological or architectural significance, as alternative means; well as any change to the project that may be  the environmental effects of the project, caused by the environment. This definition including the environmental effects of includes indirect economic and social changes malfunctions or accidents, and any that are caused by biophysical modifications of cumulative environmental effects that are the environment. It does not include the direct likely to result from the project in economic and social effects of the project. For combination with other projects or activities example, the Agency may examine the that have been or will be carried out; economic effects of a decline in commercial  the capacity of renewable resources that are fishing success that is related to a loss of fish likely to be significantly affected by the habitat, but it will not examine economic effects project to meet the needs of the present and related to the construction of a mine.

2 16(1)(e): Any other matter relevant to the screening, comprehensive study, mediation or assessment by a review panel, such as the need for the project and alternatives to the project, that the responsible authority or, except in the case of a screening, the Minister after consulting with the responsible authority, may require to be considered.

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3.2 Scope of the Factors to be  fish and fish habitat; Considered and Spatial and  birds and bird habitat; Temporal Boundaries  terrestrial wildlife and wildlife habitat;  plant and animal species at risk within the As stipulated in the updated Scope of the meaning of subsection 2(1) of the Species at Federal Environmental Assessment document Risk Act and their habitats, including (2011) issued by the Agency, the proponent was woodland caribou; directed to extend its analysis to the sectors and  current use of lands and resources for to the components of the environment with traditional purposes by Aboriginal peoples; which the project might interact. The study area  health of users of the territory, particularly the established by the proponent in order to meet impacts of the accumulation of metals in the Agency’s requirements is composed of two plants and animals as well as on human sectors. The mine sector covers approximately health; 2 100 km and includes all of the mining  boating and boater safety; infrastructure, the related facilities and the  socio-economic activities and heritage, surrounding area. The airstrip sector covers an historical, cultural and archaeological area of approximately 27 km2. An extended resources; study area was defined for the assessment of the  safety concerns regarding explosives project’s effects on the Cree and Jamesian manufacturing and magazines. communities in the area. This area includes the Cree Nation of Mistissini, the towns of 3.3 Determination of Valued Chibougamau and Chapais, and the region of Ecosystem Components (VECs) Eeyou Istchee, which includes the traditional family territory M11. The Agency organized its analysis according to six categories of valued ecosystem components The temporal boundaries include the total (VECs) which were examined in the project lifespan, including the periods of site comprehensive study: preparation, construction, infrastructure development and mining of the deposit, as well  air quality: dust, nitrogen oxide (NOx), as the mine closure and post-closure periods. sulphur dioxide (SO2) and carbon monoxide Most of the closure and restoration work should (CO); be completed within a period of two years after  water quality: groundwater, surface water the end of operations. However, in its analysis, and the hydrological regime; the proponent extended the follow-up period to  fish and fish habitat: the aquatic more than 25 years following closure of the environment, including aquatic and riparian mine in order to study the long-term impacts of vegetation as well as fish species; the mine.  terrestrial wildlife and its habitat: amphibians and reptiles, fur-bearing animals, The following environmental factors were micromammals and large mammals as well as examined by the proponent: their habitats;  birds and bird habitat: waterfowl,  surface water and groundwater quality; waterbirds, forest birds and birds of prey as  air quality; well as the their critical habitats including  soil quality; terrestrial vegetation, wetlands and water  water regime (hydrology and hydrogeology); bodies;  geology of the environment;  current use of lands and resources of  terrestrial and aquatic vegetation; archaeological, heritage and historical  wetlands; significance for traditional purposes.

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3.4 Purpose of and Need for the points out that the loss of tax revenues from a Project mining operation over a 20-year period (income and sales taxes, royalties, etc.) would place The proponent indicated that the Foxtrot deposit greater pressure on current resources, thereby represents a significant source of diamonds and limiting the prospects for providing or that the estimated mine life is approximately 20 improving social services and funding years. According to the update on resources community infrastructure. Since other published in February 2011, the indicated alternatives are not feasible, the proponent mineral resources of the deposit are estimated at placed the emphasis on the analysis of 24 million carats, which represents a value of alternatives in its approach to carrying out the more than US$7 billion. project.

According to the proponent’s data, at the current 4.1.1 Description of alternatives rate of consumption, world diamond mine The proponent examined several alternatives for reserves could be exhausted within 14 years. the main components of the project. In addition The proponent therefore believes that the to the location of the deposit, which is a decisive Renard mine would provide a new source of factor for the choice of the mine site, the high-value gem-quality diamonds in a market proponent examined alternatives for the various that seems to be running short of supply. The project components. For each of these mine would also offer the potential for alternatives, as stipulated in the updated Scope extraction of very large diamonds (known as of the Federal Environmental Assessment “Specials”). document (2011), the proponent determined the best options from the technical, economic and The proponent believes that diamond mine environmental standpoints. projects represent a substantial potential contribution to the Canadian economy and Road access society, and particularly for the regions of the The proponent presented two scenarios for North. In the proponent’s view, there is good permanent road access to the site: access from reason to believe that the opening of the Renard the north and access from the south. The North mine, the first diamond mine in Quebec, will alignment, which has been examined by several also have positive socio-economic impacts for optimization studies over the years, would link Quebec and the region’s communities. the mine site to the Trans-Taiga Road. This would be a forest road, 154 to 165 km long, 4. Project Alternatives depending on where it connects to the Trans- Taiga Road. The South alignment would The following sections present the alternatives involve the construction of 240 km of new road to the project analyzed as well as the options planned as part of the northern extension of selected by the proponent. Route 167 between Albanel Lake and the Renard Diamond Mine Project site. Considering that the extension of Route 167 project has 4.1 Alternatives already been started by Transports Québec, this is the proponent’s preferred option. Stornoway In terms of alternatives, the proponent examined Diamond Corporation also signed a funding the status quo, i.e. that the Renard Diamond agreement with Finances et Économie Québec Mine Project does not go forward. In the in December 2012 for the completion of proponent’s view, the status quo would have construction of the last 100 km of road to the negative impacts on government revenues and, Renard project site. consequently, on the population. The proponent

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Location of the airstrip Based on the proposed layout, the proponent The airstrip meets a short-term need of the undertook an analysis of the various alternatives proponent to ensure the safe transport of for certain components, including the secondary personnel and pieces of equipment. When access roads to the mine, the ore extraction selecting the site for an airstrip in a northern methods, the ore processing method as well as environment, there are a number of the various water management methods. The requirements that must be met, not only in proponent compared the alternatives by relation to civil aviation standards, but also in assigning a weighted score to the view of the characteristics of the environment, environmental, economic and technical criteria including the topography, the geotechnical established for each component. characteristics of the soil, and orientation relative to the prevailing winds. Of the 15 site Secondary roads alternatives initially identified during project The planned network of secondary roads planning, only two (14 and 15) were subjected represented approximately 2.2 km. The routes to a detailed analysis. The other sites did not chosen are intended to facilitate traffic meet the criteria either for topographic or movement and ensure worker safety while environmental reasons or non-compliance with minimizing the project’s environmental civil aviation standards. Alternatives 14 and 15 footprint. The road network would run were analyzed using a decision matrix (called alongside the mine facilities to reduce the Pugh matrix), which permitted a comparison of footprint on land and, insofar as possible, would the two sites according to technical, be kept away from wetlands, water bodies and environmental and economic criteria. sensitive wildlife habitats. Locating the various Alternative 14 was chosen since it had the most facilities in proximity to one another would also advantages from an environmental and serve to minimize the length of the road economic perspective, particularly because of its network. location close to Route 167 and its distance from water bodies. Drilling method Following geotechnical studies and optimization Alternative of the operating mode and layout exercises, the proponent selected the blasthole of mining facilities and infrastructures shrinkage (BHS) drilling method, which would The topography, hydrography, sensitive be more cost-effective and simpler for workers. ecosystems, geotechnical boundaries of the This method also makes it possible to begin receiving environment, the parts of the territory underground extraction before surface mining used by the Cree and safety considerations were operations have been completed. taken into account by the proponent in drawing up the site layout plan. Owing to the location of Ore processing the deposit (northeast of Lac Lagopède), the No alternative analysis was conducted for the proponent determined that the mine facilities ore processing method since only one method is will be built in this sector. This approach was applicable, namely the crushing and gravity intended to reduce the project’s environmental separation process used to extract diamonds. footprint and optimize mining operations. The proponent concludes that the proposed location Location of the waste rock and kimberlite meets all of its objectives in terms of efficiency storage sites and takes into account the evolution of the The mining activities will produce different technical needs of the project while reducing the types of materials which must be managed, impacts on the natural and human environment. including overburden, waste rock, ore The final layout plan is shown in Appendix 2. (kimberlite) and processed kimberlite. All of the

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overburden will be sent to a storage site located For domestic wastewater treatment, the aerated to the east of pits R-2/R-3. Part of the lagoon system was chosen, since it offers more overburden will be used for the phased and final technical, economic and environmental revegetation of the site. The proponent advantages than the biodisk system. Owing to eventually plans to return the waste rock to the its simplicity and the minimal equipment underground workings via surface openings required, this system can reduce operating and from pits R2/R3 (Appendix 2) and also to use it maintenance costs. In addition, aerated lagoons to stabilize the slope of the processed kimberlite have a greater capacity to handle organic and storage area. In addition, the results concerning hydraulic loads in peak periods owing to the the determination of acid generation potential longer retention time. The choice of the site for and the leachate analyses demonstrated that the the domestic wastewater final discharge point waste rock can be used as construction or road was determined based on four criteria repair materials. In the interim, the waste rock (technical, physical, biological and human). On will be temporarily stored in a storage site the basis of the five variants analyzed, discharge located north of pits R-2/R-3. point #3 (Appendix 4.3) was chosen since it offered the greatest advantages in terms of the To determine the optimal site for the processed biological and physical criteria, in particular kimberlite containment area, the proponent deeper water, which will result in greater conducted a comparative analysis of five sites dilution of the effluent. (Appendix 3). The proponent analyzed the alternatives using weighted environmental, The main mine wastewater management social, economic and technical indicators which infrastructure for the operation phase will be were evaluated on a qualitative or quantitative located in the sector of pit R-65 (Appendix 2). scale. The decisive factor was its location in The process for selecting the location of the site proximity to pits R2/R3, in order to reduce the for the mine effluent final discharge point into project’s environmental footprint. In addition, Lac Lagopède was governed by the same four the chosen site is the option that received the categories of criteria as those used for selecting highest overall score, and was preferred by the the domestic effluent final discharge point. Site M11 tallymen, since it would not interfere with No. 4 is considered the best site for the treated moose hunting and is located at a considerable mine effluent outfall, since it offers the greatest distance from the snowmobile trail. advantages of the four alternatives studied (Appendix 4.4). This site is characterized by Water management methods higher current velocities and is located less than The proponent conducted an analysis of the 500 m downstream of the main tributary components of the available methods for (F3294) of Lac Lagopède, which makes it management of the project’s water (domestic possible to maximize dispersion and dilution of and mine) requirements. Two wastewater the effluent in the lake. In addition, site No. 4 is collection systems (domestic and mine) will be the deepest of the four alternatives studied and installed and will operate independently. is located more than 1 km downstream from the Comparative analyses were conducted for the drinking water intake. various alternatives (Appendices 4.1 and 4.2) concerning the methods for treating domestic The options chosen represent wastewater and mining effluent as well as the location for the domestic and industrial the solutions which entail the wastewater treatment plant. lowest environmental and social impact …

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Power supply alternatives Mine Project, the Agency, with the The mining activities will require a supply of collaboration of the Federal Environmental electricity ranging from 9,500 kW to 13,560 kW Assessment Committee, held several public and annually. In calculating the power supply Aboriginal consultation sessions. requirement assumptions, five options were compared based on technical feasibility and The Agency administers a Participant Funding environmental and socio-economic aspects Program, the purpose of which is to help using a set of sub-criteria to which weighted interested individuals, non-profit organizations values were assigned. The five options studied and Aboriginal groups to participate in federal are diesel generator sets, a power transmission environmental assessments. In the context of line, the combination of generator sets and a this comprehensive study, the Agency allocated power transmission line, a small-scale close to $25,000. hydroelectric plant, wind energy and solar energy. Only two options would provide a reliable and continuous source of energy to meet 5.1 Public Consultations Conducted the mine’s significant electricity needs: diesel by the Federal Government in the generator sets and a power transmission line. Context of the Comprehensive Study According to the proponent, the comparative analysis of the power supply options The former Act provides three official public demonstrates that construction of a power participation opportunities. The first transmission line would be the most consultation gives participants an opportunity to advantageous option from an environmental, comment on the project and the conduct of the socio-economic and technical perspective. comprehensive study. The second consultation However, owing to the initial construction costs provides interested persons an opportunity to for the power transmission line (estimated comment on the results of the environmental capital cost of $173.6 million for a 159-km assessment of the project, and the third line), the solution chosen by the proponent at consultation gives participants an opportunity to this stage is the use of diesel generator sets. comment on the comprehensive study report.

To announce the first two consultation periods 4.2 Agency’s Conclusions and the Participant Funding Program, the Agency posted notices on the Canadian The Agency is satisfied with the proponent’s Environmental Assessment Registry website analysis. The options chosen represent the and in two local newspapers: La Sentinelle and solutions which entail the lowest environmental La Nation. The Agency also broadcast these and social impact taking into account the notices on Planète FM 93.5 and CINI-FM 95.3. technical and economic criteria for this type of The relevant documents for the consultations mine project. were placed on the Registry website and deposited at the Chibougamau municipal 5. Public and Aboriginal library. The Agency also sent copies of these Consultations documents to the organizations to which it had provided funding. Public and Aboriginal consultations improve the quality and credibility of environmental From June 15 to August 8, 2011, the Agency assessments. Comments and concerns expressed held the first consultation, which focused on a in consultations help identify the potential background document including the description impacts of a project starting at the planning of the project, the scope of the environmental stage. In the context of the Renard Diamond assessment and the environmental assessment

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 9

schedule. The Agency did not receive any 5.2 Aboriginal Consultations comments during this consultation. Conducted by the Federal Government in the Context of the The second consultation took place from May Comprehensive Study 22 to June 22, 2012. During this period, the Agency held an evening consultation session in The Crown has a duty to consult and, where Chibougamau, on June 5, 2012, where the appropriate, accommodate Aboriginal groups public was invited to learn about the project and when it contemplates conduct that is likely to the proponent’s environmental impact statement have an adverse impact on established or and to express any comments or concerns. potential Aboriginal and treaty rights. The Representatives of the Agency, Fisheries and former Act required that federal environmental Oceans Canada, Natural Resources Canada and assessments take into consideration the effects Environment Canada were present to explain of any change that the project may cause in the their role and to answer any questions. environment as well as the effect of this change Representatives of the proponent were also on current use of lands and resources for attending to present the project and answer any traditional purposes by Aboriginal people. questions and respond to any concerns directly linked to the project. To fulfil the Crown’s duty to consult and to facilitate a whole-of-government approach, the In the third consultation opportunity, the Agency conducted consultations with the Cree Agency will invite the public to comment on Nation of Mistissini together with the federal this comprehensive study report. The Agency authorities concerned. The Agency, Fisheries will present the comments received to the and Oceans Canada, Natural Resources Canada, Minister of the Environment for consideration in Environment Canada, the Cree Regional his environmental assessment decision. Authority and the Cree Nation of Mistissini

Public consultation

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agreed on a consultation plan. At the end of the recommendations of this comprehensive study comprehensive study process, the Cree Nation report. The Agency will present the comments of Mistissini will have had three formal received to the Minister of the Environment for consultation opportunities. In addition, consideration in his environmental assessment throughout the process, the Agency has been in decision. regular contact with the representatives of the Council of the Cree Nation of Mistissini. If the decision concerning the environmental assessment is favourable, Fisheries and Oceans To announce the first two consultation Canada (DFO) and Natural Resources Canada opportunities, the Agency sent news releases to will consult the Cree Nation of Mistissini on the the Band Council of the Cree Nation of authorizations to be issued for the Mistissini, posted notices in the community and implementation of the project, including the in La Nation, and broadcast notices on CINI-FM compensation program for fish habitat losses. 95.3. The Agency held a first consultation, which focused on a background document including the description of the project, the 5.3 Provincial Consultation Activities scope of the environmental assessment and the and Collaboration environmental assessment schedule. The Agency did not receive any comments during The Provincial Review Committee (COMEX), this consultation. established under section 22 of the JBNQA and composed of representatives appointed by the During the second phase of consultation, the province and by the Cree Regional Authority, federal government and the Council of the Cree was mandated to review the project. On August Nation of Mistissini jointly organized two 28 and 29, 2012, COMEX held public consultation events, which gave the Cree consultations in Chibougamau and Mistissini. community of Mistissini an opportunity to discuss directly with federal representatives. On June 6 and 7, 2012, community residents as well 5.4 Participation Activities Conducted as any group or representative of organizations by the Proponent interested in the project were invited to participate in “open house” type consultations to The proponent reports that it informed the learn about the project, its impacts and to public about its project in the early 2000s. express their comments. According to the proponent, the various communication and consultation activities that it On June 7, at the invitation of the community of organized have given the population and the Mistissini, the Agency and representatives of community of Mistissini the opportunity to learn Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment about the project and to express their concerns Canada, Natural Resources Canada and the Cree on an ongoing basis. For example, the Regional Authority met with the working proponent held pre-consultation meetings in committee on the Renard project, which Chibougamau and Mistissini to gather includes representatives of the community, Cree comments and concerns for the preparation of social and environmental groups, and the its environmental and social impact study tallymen. It was during this meeting that most of report. the comments made by the Crees were received. The proponent documented its meetings with In the third phase of consultation, the Agency the community members and tallymen will invite the Cree Nation of Mistissini to concerned to enable them to be informed about comment on the content, conclusions and the general outlines of the project. The

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proponent established a working group on the present a detailed analysis of the risks of environment (environmental committee) which, groundwater contamination, including according to the proponent, resulted in various contamination caused by mine tailings water improvements to the project over the course of seepage, given the fact that the groundwater its development by taking the concerns of the reportedly already contains relatively high Cree community into account. The proponent concentrations of certain elements (or “natural also reports that it established an office in contaminants”). Mistissini in 2011 to facilitate ongoing dialogue  Loss of fish habitat: The group Nature Québec with the local population. It also organized requested that the proponent present different “open house” type consultation sessions to scenarios to compensate for the loss of fish directly answer the public’s questions. The habitat that would be caused by the drainage proponent reported that it took into account the of two lakes and one stream during the comments and concerns raised by the public and construction work. Questions were also raised the community of Mistissini in the development regarding the mitigation measures proposed to of its project. compensate for fish habitat losses.  Woodland caribou: Nature Québec is In the winter of 2012, the proponent signed an concerned about the status of the woodland Impacts and Benefits Agreement (IBA) caribou and requested that the proponent (Mechshoo Agreement) with the Band Council conduct a much more exhaustive study to of Mistissini. One of the provisions of the characterize the potential effects of the Mechshoo Agreement is to maintain the Renard project on woodland caribou in the “environmental committee” in order to enable region, in the short, medium and long term. the parties to collaborate on environmental  Need for an independent environmental issues, create training opportunities concerning follow-up committee: The Société pour environmental issues and organize visits to the vaincre la pollution and the community of mine site for the committee members and the Mistissini consider that environmental follow- Mistissini M11 tallymen. up should be the responsibility of a committee not associated with the proponent.  Opening up of the area: A number of 5.5 Issues Raised stakeholders are concerned about potential adverse effects associated with the mine and The Agency considered the concerns and with Route 167 on hunting, fishing and comments received from the public and the Cree trapping activities in the region. of Mistissini in its analysis (chapter 7) and forwarded them to the proponent. The following In the winter of 2012, the are the main issues raised by the participants: proponent signed an  Risk associated with the impacts of the Impacts and Benefits effluents on water quality, particularly in Lac Lagopède: The Société pour vaincre la Agreement (Mechshoo pollution, Nature Québec and the Cree of Agreement) with the Band Mistissini are concerned about water quality at the outfall of the wastewater treatment Council of Mistissini. plant and about the potential impacts on Lac Lagopède, and called for long term  Economic aspects: The group Nature Québec monitoring and follow-up. recommended that the proponent conduct a  Groundwater contamination: Some cost-benefit analysis illustrating the project’s stakeholders requested that the proponent real economic spinoffs for Quebec from the

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start of exploration. It also recommended Lagopède . Most of these lakes and streams presenting a preliminary study on the provide fish habitat. Of the 15 species of fish possibility of diamond ore processing in caught, five are of interest for sport fishing Quebec. (northern pike, lake whitefish, brook trout, lake trout and burbot). Whitefish and burbot are two 6. Profile of the Environment species reserved for the exclusive use of the Cree. Of the fish species present in the study area, brook trout is the species most likely to be 6.1 Biophysical Context affected by the project.

The Canadian Shield forms the geologic The results of surface water and sediment foundation of James Bay, where the Renard characterization in the study area indicate that Diamond Mine Project is located. The site of the water and sediment quality is good. The water Renard project is located at an altitude of 450 m generally has very low turbidity and the pH to 550 m. The bedrock geology is part of the ranges from acidic to neutral. Lac Lagopède has Superior Province (+/-2.9 to 2.65 billion years the characteristics of an oligotrophic lake. ago) and includes diamondiferous kimberlite. In addition to diamond deposits, this region Amphibian and reptile species richness and contains large uranium, gold, copper and zinc diversity tend to decline from south to north. In deposits. The landscape of the area is the result total, five species were surveyed in the study of North America’s most recent glaciation, area, including four anuran species and one which ended approximately 7,000 years ago. salamander species. The bird surveys confirmed the presence of 49 bird species. The study area has a subpolar continental Twenty-three species of mammals were climate characterized by a short growing season. surveyed, seven of which are micromammals. The winters are very cold and long and the The large mammal population of the study area temperature can fall to -50oC. The area receives includes three species: woodland caribou, approximately 500 mm of rain and 300 cm of moose and black bear. snow annually. The project area is located in the black spruce-lichen domain. Fire is the main driver of forest dynamics. Some 94% of the land 6.2 Human Context in the study area is covered with low-density black spruce forests, while wetlands, mainly The Municipality of Baie-James is occupied by peatlands, occupy 2%. Cree and Jamesian communities. The territorial organization and administrative structures of the According to the hydrogeological studies region are numerous and were created under a conducted by the proponent, the bedrock aquifer number of acts and agreements. There is is confined or semi-confined, which suggests a currently no road access to the area where the naturally low permeability of the subsoil layer. Renard project is located. However, this should The Renard project lies within the watershed of change soon, since the extension of Route 167, the Misask River, which flows into the Eastmain which is currently under way, is expected to River. At the local level, all the rivers and reach as far as the Renard mine project site. streams that drain the project site flow into Lac Lagopède. Groundwater flows toward various On the Jamesian side, the Municipality of James surface water bodies, including Lac Lagopède. Bay and the Conférence régionale des élus de la The Renard project study area is characterized Baie-James are the two organizations by the presence of small, low-flow streams and responsible for the management and shallow lakes, with the exception of Lac development of the region. The Municipality of

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James Bay is made up of the mayors of the The Lac Lagopède area is a frequently used part towns of Chapais, Chibougamau, Lebel-sur- of the trapline. A certain number of valued sites Quévillon and Matagami, the chairpersons of are also present in the trapline area including the communities of Radisson, Valcanton and birthplaces and burial sites. Villebois, and one person from a non-urbanized territory. 7. Environmental Effects Assessment Under the Cree Villages and the Naskapi Village Act, the Cree Nation of Mistissini is administered by a band council. Its role is 7.1 Approach simultaneously political and administrative and also includes the provision of services to the In this section, the Agency provides a summary community. The Grand Council of the Crees to help readers understand its analysis process. (Eeyou Istchee) and the Cree Regional Readers who would like more detailed Authority are the two regional entities that information can consult the series of documents represent the Crees. They have the power and relating to the environmental assessment of the authority to promote, coordinate and administer project available on the Canadian programs to protect the traditional Cree lifestyle Environmental Assessment Registry (CEAR and culture and develop Cree communities. Ref. No. 55169).

The administrative structures shaping the Cree The Agency, in collaboration with the Federal territory stem primarily from the following four Environmental Assessment Committee, agreements: the James Bay and Northern identified and assessed potential adverse Quebec Agreement (JBNQA, 1975), the environmental impacts of the project on the Agreement Concerning a New Relationship basis of: Between the Gouvernement du Québec and the Crees of Québec (Paix des Braves, 2002), the  the proponent’s impact assessment, including Agreement Concerning a New Relationship the proponent’s responses to a series of Between the Government of Canada and the questions and comments from the Federal Cree of Eeyou Istchee (2008) and, more Environmental Assessment Committee; recently, the Agreement on Governance in the  the proponent’s sectoral studies, such as the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Territory Between the analysis of alternatives and survey results; Crees of Eeyou Istchee and the Gouvernement  the information obtained during public du Québec (2012). consultations;  the expert opinions obtained from federal Use of the territory in the proposed mine project government departments with expertise area consists essentially of traditional resource relevant to the project or the environment. harvesting by the Cree community of Mistissini which is under the responsibility of a tallyman. The method used by the proponent to assess the Some 25 individuals use, to a varying extent, the significance of the effects considers three M11 trapline for waterfowl hunting, big game criteria, defined as follows: hunting, trapping of fur-bearing animals, gathering and fishing. This trapline extends over  Magnitude of the effect: This refers to the an area of approximately 3,800 km2 and relative significance of the project’s effects on includes two main Aboriginal camps and is a component of the environment. Assessment crossed by numerous snowmobile trails. of magnitude takes into account the natural

14 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

and social environment of which the During the construction phase, air quality will component is a part. The magnitude may be be affected mainly by the site preparation and low, moderate or high. development work. During the operation phase,  Geographical extent: This is defined as the the sources of atmospheric contaminant spatial extent of the effect considered and/or emissions will be the processed kimberlite the number of people affected by the impact. containment area, the open pits (R-2/R-3 and The geographical extent may be site-specific, R-65), the ore processing plant, the conveyor local or regional. transfer points, ore hauling truck movements,  Duration: The duration of the effect indicates the mine machinery, and the trucks supplying its temporal aspects. It expresses the period of the mine with fuel, food and other supplies time over which a change affects a required for operation of the mine. During the component, as well as its frequency— closure phase, the decommissioning and site continuous or discontinuous. The duration of reclamation work will be the main sources of the effect may be short, moderate or long. atmospheric emissions.

The proponent has identified mitigation According to the proponent, because of the measures intended to reduce the impact of the remote location and general characteristics of project’s potential adverse environmental effects the work areas, the concentrations of dust for the construction, operation and closure generated and exhaust gases emitted during the phases. The proponent has incorporated or will construction, operation and closure phases will incorporate these measures in the project design be concentrated at the work site and will and in the project plans and specifications. Once disperse quickly. According to the modelling the mitigation measures were established, the simulations carried out by the proponent, proponent was able to assess the significance of dustfall from the various mine sources will not the residual effects. exceed 2.5 tonnes/km2/30 months, which is below the standard of 7.5 tonnes/km2/month set out in the Quebec Clean Air Regulation. The 7.2 Air Quality proponent points out that since the geographical extent of the work is limited to the mine site, Current air quality at the project site is atmospheric pollutants will have only a limited characterized by pollutant concentrations well impact outside the project footprint. below applicable standards. Only forest fires temporarily degrade air quality by increasing 7.2.2 Mitigation measures and residual fine particulate matter concentrations in the air. environmental effects The proponent indicated that the main This section covers the main air quality issues. mitigation measure that could be applied to Since mechanical mining methods will be used, improve air quality on the Renard mine site such as crushing and grinding, the analysis would be to connect a power supply line to the focused on the dispersion of fine particulates in Hydro-Québec grid instead of using generator the air and greenhouse gas emissions. sets to supply electricity to the mine. According to the proponent’s analysis, this measure would 7.2.1 Potential environmental effects improve air quality for the workers in the ore During the construction, operation and closure processing facilities area and also in the workers phases, combustion gas emissions will be housing and services complex, in addition to generated by the use and maintenance of reducing the mine’s greenhouse gas emissions. machinery, generator sets and traffic. However, the proponent decided against the

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 15

power line option because of the high and at the airstrip. The proponent will also construction costs (159-km line). implement an air quality and atmospheric emissions monitoring program (fine particulate According to the proponent, using a dust control matter concentrations, dustfall, and SO2 and agent on the mine roads will minimize dust NO2 concentrations). generated by ore hauling vehicles and trucks transporting supplies to the mine. 7.2.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response Blasting activities generate little fine particulate Nature Québec requested that the proponent matter and the proponent anticipates that the present a detailed plan for reducing the maximum concentration in the ambient air will greenhouse gases emitted during the be limited to a 250 m radius of the work areas. construction, operation and closure phases of In addition, blankets will be used to minimize the project. In addition, authorization of the the dispersion of dust generated from surface project by the Quebec government is conditional blasting since the vast majority of the particles on the proponent using the most efficient released during blasting are over 100 microns. technologies and least polluting fuels in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The Watering of the kimberlite storage areas during proponent is required to submit to the Quebec dry weather will reduce dust emissions due to government annual monitoring reports on wind erosion. This measure will have to be estimated GHG emissions. In addition, a re- maintained during the closure period in the assessment of the feasibility of a connection to event that revegetation proves ineffective. the electrical power grid must be conducted after five years of operation. If this option Following implementation of the mitigation proves economically feasible, GHG emissions measures designed to comply with regulatory would be reduced by nearly half. standards for ambient air quality, the proponent considers that the reduction in air quality will be Environment Canada noted certain deficiencies limited to the project area and will not extend in the information provided by the proponent to very far into the surrounding natural permit verification of the input data as well as environment. The proponent therefore assessment of the results of the modelling of concludes that the intensity of the impact on the atmospheric contaminant dispersion environmental components can be considered (AERMOD). Considering the lack of low. The geographical extent of the impact is representativeness of the meteorological data considered site-specific, since it will affect only used and the lack of data on ambient air quality the mine site and airstrip. The duration of the for the study area, some degree of uncertainty impact is considered short for the construction remains concerning the results of the modelling and closure phases, i.e., an estimated period of of atmospheric contaminant dispersion on the two years in both cases. The duration of the mine site and in the surrounding area. impact is considered moderate for the operation phase. Once these phases have been completed, To this end, the proponent has undertaken to air quality will return to current levels, since the implement a monitoring program to verify dust impacts are reversible. Consequently, the emissions from non-point sources in particular, significance of the residual impact is considered from the processed kimberlite containment area, low. In order to validate its analysis and ensure and their potential deposition in water bodies, compliance with applicable standards, the particularly Lac Lagopède and lake F3298. This proponent proposed a weather and climate verification will make it possible to assess the monitoring program which includes the impact of these dust emissions and take any installation of weather stations on the mine site necessary corrective measures (Appendix 10).

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This monitoring program will have to be Surface water quality is good and the surface submitted to the federal authorities for approval water characteristics are similar those of other before commencement of project operations. water bodies in this area. The water generally has low turbidity and a low concentration of In addition, the conditions for authorization of suspended sediment. Ion and nutrient (nitrogen the project by the Quebec Department of and phosphorus) concentrations are low or Sustainable Development, Environment, below detection limits, which is characteristic of Wildlife and Parks (MDDEFP) require that the an oligotrophic or ultra-oligotrophic proponent submit new atmospheric emission environment. The pH varies from acidic to modelling data demonstrating compliance with neutral (generally acidic). Because of its low provincial regulations before commencement of alkalinity and low buffering capacity, surface project operations. This modelling data will also water in the study area is very sensitive to have to be submitted to the federal authorities. acidification.

7.2.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance … the proponent has of the residual environmental effects Taking into account the implementation of the undertaken to implement a proposed mitigation measures and the monitoring program to verify monitoring of air quality and atmospheric emissions planned by the proponent, the Agency dust emissions … concludes that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects on air 7.3.1 Potential environmental effects quality. The changes to the hydrologic regime (groundwater and surface water) caused by the implementation of this project represent a major 7.3 Water Quality issue, considering the diversion and drainage of several rivers, streams and lakes and The water quality VEC includes groundwater considering the potential nutrient and fine and surface water, from the perspective of both sediment loading associated with the work. The quantity (hydrologic regime) and quality main anticipated impacts are related to the (sediment, nutrient and contaminant loading). drainage of lakes F 3302 and F 3303 and their tributaries during construction and operation of The mine-related infrastructure such as the open the pit, the lowering of water levels in Lac pits and underground adits will be located near Lagopède and lakes F 3300, F 2607, F 3301, F Lac Lagopède and six other lakes and streams 3295, F 3296 and F 3298, and the potential for that connect to Lac Lagopède. contamination of groundwater and surface water. The contamination of groundwater and In terms of groundwater, the bedrock aquifer is surface water through the discharge of domestic confined or semi-confined, which suggests low and mine wastewater effluent and accidental natural permeability of the layer overlying the spills of petroleum products and chemicals are bedrock. Groundwater vulnerability is another major issue. considered low to moderate for the till on rock and basal till and bedrock units. Groundwater The project components most likely to flow occurs primarily in the direction of the qualitatively and quantitatively affect various surface water bodies, suggesting the groundwater and surface water are: presence of groundwater seepage in the various water bodies.  the work associated with site preparation and

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 17

development as well as borrow pit operation, These measures include: which could impact water quality and modify surface water and water table recharge  maintaining a 30-metre riparian buffer strip to patterns; protect aquatic habitats;  the drainage of lakes during operation of the  minimizing runoff and flow from the work mine as well as the operation and flooding of areas which are potential sources of the pits are likely to lower the water table and contamination; impact water levels of other neighbouring  measures governing the use and storage of lakes, rivers and streams; hydrocarbons and explosives, such as  the diversion of lakes, rivers and streams by reducing the use of hazardous materials and the network of ditches around the mine, installing runoff containment and treatment which could have effects on water quantity structures in fuel storage and handling areas; and quality;  installation of devices at source to control soil  the discharge of domestic and mine erosion and sediment transport to lakes, rivers wastewater effluent into Lac Lagopède, which and streams using strategies adapted to the could have impacts on water quality and site and the environmental conditions (e.g. quantity in Lac Lagopède; and sediment barriers, riprap, geotextile, hay bales  the use and maintenance of machinery and and sedimentation ponds). generator sets, which could result in accidental spills during operations. The proponent also presented a comprehensive water management plan for the entire site. The Lake turnover time influences lake water quality proponent plans to implement a system for and aging process. The Lac Lagopède turnover collecting wastewater from the mine, including time is low, making it sensitive to the input and runoff from the processed kimberlite accumulation of additional suspended sediment, containment areas and ore, waste rock and nutrient (e.g. phosphorus) and organic matter overburden stockpiles, and mine drainage water. loading. This additional loading could affect the All the water from the site, including water from quality of the environment (transport of ore processing, will thus be collected by a contaminants), increase sedimentation (e.g. peripheral network of collecting ditches and silting of spawning grounds), increase biological directed toward a sedimentation pond productivity in the water body (eutrophication) constructed in pit R-65. This water will be and disturb the most sensitive fish species. pumped to a treatment plant before being discharged into Lac Lagopède. In addition, a 7.3.2 Mitigation measures and residual closed-circuit water collection system will environmental effects promote water reuse for ore processing. Considering the activities carried out during all the project phases, there are many potential The proponent will be required to implement an environmental effects on water quantity and environmental monitoring program for the quality. It is therefore important that the entire mine life. This monitoring program will proponent have a water management plan and provide more detailed data about the quantity apply appropriate mitigation measures to and quality of wastewater from the project and minimize the impacts on the environment. make it possible to quickly detect any changes in these components that may be attributable to In its environmental impact statement, the the project or to natural factors and enable any proponent presents a series of mitigation necessary corrective action to be taken. measures (Appendix 7) that it plans to implement in order to reduce the risks of On the basis of the planned measures to avoid impacts on groundwater and surface water. any adverse impact on the management of water

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quantity and quality, the proponent considers eutrophication). The proponent confirmed that that the project will have a moderate adverse the treated mine water will only be released into impact during the operation phase, and that this Lac Lagopède when the final effluent meets the impact will be eventually eliminated in the effluent discharge objectives (EDO) established closure phase. by the MDDEFP.

7.3.3 Government, public and Aboriginal Environment Canada recommends that the comments and proponent’s response proponent use the best available technologies The main concerns expressed by the public and for the treatment of mine and domestic the community of Mistissini pertained to the wastewater as well as all available management impact on the water quality of Lac Lagopède. tools, including the monitoring program for More specifically, the group “Société pour treated effluents, with reference specifically to vaincre la pollution” (SVP) questioned the phosphorus and other substances (suspended proponent’s calculations relating to the sediments, nutrients, metals, organic suspended sediment and phosphorus loading in compounds, etc.) in mine and domestic Lac Lagopède. The Federal Environmental discharge water (Appendix 10). To this end, the Assessment Committee also raised this aspect proponent must ensure that its facilities meet the with the proponent, particularly in connection applicable federal legislative and regulatory with the anticipated adverse effects on aquatic requirements (e.g. Fisheries Act, Wastewater life (silting of spawning grounds and Systems Effluent Regulations). Depending on

Small lake near Lac Lagopède

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 19

the results obtained during the monitoring trout. Captures were dominated by four species: program, adjustments may have to be made to pearl dace (44.9%), white sucker (23.7%), brook the wastewater treatment system. trout (13.2%) and lake chub (9.1%).

7.3.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance No fish species at risk were observed in the area of the residual environmental effects of influence of the proposed mine or related Taking into account the implementation of the infrastructure. proposed mitigation measures as well as the monitoring of the quality of the effluents and 7.4.1 Potential environmental effects surface water of Lac Lagopède planned by the The potential environmental effects of the proponent, the Agency concludes that the Renard Project on fish and fish habitat concern project is not likely to cause significant adverse essentially: environmental effects on water quality.  dewatering of fish habitat; The proponent will be required to  changes to water inflow into fish habitat; and  fine sediment loading in fish habitat. implement an environmental monitoring program for Dewatering of fish habitat Implementation of the project will require prior the entire mine life. drainage of lakes, rivers and streams as well as the diversion of rivers and streams, causing destruction of fish habitats and possible fish 7.4 Fish and Fish Habitat mortality (Appendix 5).

“Fish and fish habitat” includes not only fish per The operation of pits R2-R3 and R-65 will se, but also spawning grounds and nursery, require prior drainage of F 3302 and F 3303 and rearing, food supply and migration areas on their outlets. In addition, stream F 3298V will which fish depend directly or indirectly to carry be diverted to develop pit R-65. The upstream out their life processes. section of the stream will diverted northwest of its current course, thus dewatering the The mine site’s hydrographic network is located downstream portion of the stream (Appendix 5). at the head of a watershed and is generally characterized by small streams that have low (or Changes to water inflow into fish habitat intermittent) flow and run through wetlands or Implementation of the Renard Project will boulder fields, where their flow is diffuse. The include the application of a water management area’s lakes are fairly shallow, with the plan for the entire mine site. This plan includes exception of Lac Lagopède, which is the largest the dewatering of the pits and adits of the mine lake in the study area and the only one with a and the construction of a network of drainage thermocline and deep pools. ditches ringing the mine site. The water collected will be treated before being discharged Fish surveys indicate that fish are present in into Lac Lagopède. most of the hydrographic network of the study area. During these surveys, a total 1,314 fish of Application of the water management plan may 14 different species were captured: slimy reduce the water levels of the lakes, rivers and sculpin, northern pike, lake whitefish, burbot, streams bordering the mine, through a combined lake chub, round whitefish, white sucker, reduction in their surface water and groundwater longnose sucker, creek chub, pearl dace, inflows. longnose dace, brook trout, fallfish and lake

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The reduction in the water levels of the lakes, that the water quality of the lake could become rivers and streams may thus lead to direct losses unsuitable for the fish currently present in this of fish habitat (Appendix 5), as well as indirect lake, including brook trout, a species sensitive effects. The decrease in flows transiting through to changes in its habitat. DFO will require the lakes may reduce water turnover time, result monitoring and follow-up of the lake and, if in changes in water quality (temperature, necessary, the implementation of measures to dissolved oxygen, contaminants, etc.), reduce or ensure that suitable habitat conditions are eliminate groundwater springs conducive to maintained in this water body. spawning grounds and egg incubation, reduce thermal refuges for fish, change the hydraulic Fine sediment loading in fish habitat conditions on spawning grounds and, finally, During mine construction, before the network of restrict free passage of fish (e.g. at the outlets of drainage ditches is installed, there is a risk that the lakes in which the water levels have fine sediment will be transported into the decreased). aquatic environment from excavation areas, areas where machinery is being operated and The proponent studied seven lakes most likely cleared areas. There is also a risk of fine to be affected by drawdown of the water table, sediment loading when lakes F 3302 and F 3303 namely lakes F 3300, F 2607, F 3301, F 3295, F are drained and the water is discharged into Lac 3296 and F 3298 and Lac Lagopède (Appendix Lagopède. In order to mitigate this effect, the 2). proponent has proposed a series of measures to control erosion and fine sediment transport. The According to the proponent, the reduction in monitoring program includes provisions to take water inflows associated with the mine water additional actions if these measures prove to be management plan would result in lower water insufficient. levels and habitat losses in the littoral zone of five lakes (Appendix 5). The largest losses are The environmental impact statement also shows indicated for lakes F 3298 and F 2607 because that during operation of the mine, mine and of their low slope and shallow depth of their domestic effluents from the Renard mine (see shores. Figure 7-1) will be discharged into Lac Lagopède after treatment. The discharge of On the basis of modelling data, the proponent mine effluent could eventually lead to non- concludes that the drop in water level of the negligible solid particle loading in Lac lakes would have only a minor impact on the Lagopède. The compensation program provides flow (water level, flow, velocity) at their outlets. for the development of a lake trout spawning Nevertheless, DFO will require appropriate ground that would be located in the mine monitoring and follow-up (see section 8.1) in effluent dispersion plume. This new spawning order to ensure free movement of fish and ground will be monitored in order to make any maintenance of the hydraulic conditions on necessary adjustments to prevent potential natural spawning grounds or on those developed disturbances. to compensate for habitat losses in some of these outlets following implementation of the project.

The proponent anticipates that there could be a significant decrease in water turnover time in three lakes, especially lake F 3298. DFO estimated that the turnover time of this lake will increase from 22 days to 170 days and considers

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 21

Figure 7-1: Mine and Domestic Outfall Locations Selected for the Renard Diamond Project

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7.4.2 Mitigation measures and residual pike, white sucker and pearl dace. environmental effects The proponent plans to take various measures to The compensation program proposed by the control fine sediment loading in the aquatic proponent would involve the creation of environment (water management plan, drainage approximately 18,000 m2 of feeding, spawning ditches, system for permanent treatment of mine and nursery areas for the fish species of interest effluent, compliance with effluent discharge to Aboriginal peoples and for sport fishing. This objectives, monitoring of final effluent) program includes development projects for (Appendix 7). brook trout and lake trout in the Renard mine area as well as projects intended to enhance These measures include: various habitat functions (particularly spawning) of several species, including walleye and brook  performing all work in the aquatic trout in the Mistassini Lake area (Roche, environment during the low-water period in November 2012). In addition, long-term accordance with the fish timing windows; monitoring of the lake trout spawning ground  maintaining a 30-metre riparian buffer to site will be carried out as part of the habitat protect aquatic habitats; compensation program.  controlling erosion and runoff to rivers and streams; 7.4.3 Government, public and Aboriginal  lowering the water level of the small lakes comments and proponent’s response F3302 and F3303 slowly in order to The group Nature Québec recommended that concentrate the fish in the deepest section of the proponent present various scenarios to lake so that they can be captured and moved compensate for the fish habitat losses caused by to other water bodies. the draining of the two water bodies. The compensation program initially submitted by the In addition to these measures, the proponent proponent was not accepted by DFO because undertakes to implement the additional the proposal to flood the pits following mine measures prescribed by DFO (Appendix 8). closure would not make it possible to maintain conditions likely to generate an acceptable gain The proponent plans to take for compensation purposes because of the time required (more than 30 years) to reach various measures to control equilibrium. The proponent has proposed new fine sediment loading in the compensation scenarios (see section 7.4.2), which DFO has found to be satisfactory. This aquatic environment … new compensation program, which will involve the restoration of a former mine channel, was According to available information, the Renard also presented to and approved by the Cree Mine Project will result in the destruction of community of Mistissini. approximately 45,800 m² of fish habitat caused primarily by the drainage of some 40,800 m² of 7.4.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance water bodies and 5,000 m² of rivers and streams of the residual environmental effects due to the mine infrastructure and facilities (e.g. Considering the application of the proposed pits and drainage ditches) and mining activities mitigation measures and the compensation of (e.g. dewatering of the pits and drawdown of the habitat losses, the Agency is of the opinion that water table). The habitats destroyed include the project is not likely to cause significant feeding, spawning and nursery areas of various adverse environmental effects on fish and fish species of fish, including brook trout, northern habitat.

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The compensation program Fur-bearing animals Quebec is home to 22 species of fur-bearing proposed by the proponent animals and there are 15 species that may would involve the creation of potentially be found in the Renard Project study area, including grey wolf, beaver, marten and 2 approximately 18,000 m of lynx. The proponent also considered the feeding, spawning and nursery presence of other small wildlife species which are not listed in Schedule 1 of the Quebec areas for the fish species of Regulation respecting trapping activities and interest to Aboriginal peoples the fur trade such as snowshoe hare, woodchuck, striped skunk, northern flying and for sport fishing. squirrel and American porcupine. The information concerning fur-bearing animals includes knowledge obtained from surveys and 7.5 Terrestrial Wildlife and Its Habitat harvest statistics as well as traditional knowledge. For the purposes of this report, terrestrial wildlife includes amphibians and reptiles, fur- The proponent’s report indicates that there are bearing animals, micromammals and large only two species of fur-bearing animals with mammals as well as their habitats. A brief special status potentially found in the area, i.e., description of the various wildlife species the least weasel and the wolverine. The present in the project study area is first wolverine is protected by the Quebec Act presented, followed by an analysis of the respecting threatened or vulnerable species and anticipated impacts and the proposed mitigation the federal Species at Risk Act, while the least measures. weasel is likely to be designated threatened or vulnerable under provincial regulation. Amphibians and reptiles However, although some studies claim that the The study area of the Renard Project is located distribution of these two species overlaps the at a latitude subjected to northern climatic study area, there is no recent scientific conditions, which limit the number of information to confirm this. Mentions of amphibian and reptile species in the area. While wolverines in traditional knowledge generally the James Bay territory has numerous wetlands refer to observations of signs of the animal’s that provide quality habitat for several species, presence dating back 50 years or more, a period the Renard Project would be located in the part when the wolverine was still present in Quebec. of James Bay that has the smallest area of Current information indicates that there are no wetlands, and amphibian and reptile populations longer any wolverine populations in Quebec. would be smaller in this area. There have been no official reports of the least weasel in the study area. A single snake species could potentially be found in the study area (the common garter Micromammals snake), as well as five anuran species (American The proponent pointed out the paucity of data toad, spring peeper, wood frog and mink frog) on micromammals in the Renard Project study and three salamanders (northern two-lined area. To support its analysis, the proponent salamander, blue-spotted salamander and yellow conducted surveys in the project study area. The salamander). surveys confirmed the presence of seven

24 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

micromammal species, out of the thirteen likely observations of this species in the Lac Lagopède to be found in the study area. Of this number, area confirm its abundance. one species likely to be designated threatened or vulnerable by the Quebec government, the 7.5.1 Potential environmental effects southern bog lemming, was observed. The main anticipated impacts are associated with habitat loss and territorial fragmentation Large mammals caused by construction of the mine The large mammal population of the study area infrastructure and facilities. Disturbance and includes three species: caribou, moose and black mortality due to the construction work, mine bear. The information sources that the operations and the potential increase in hunting proponent used to provide a general overview of pressure are also potential environmental effects the large mammals include harvest statistics, on terrestrial wildlife. traditional knowledge collection, the results of previous studies carried out in the study area, Habitat loss and territorial fragmentation and the woodland caribou and moose winter Implementation of the Renard Project will cause aerial surveys conducted in collaboration with a total loss of approximately 3 km2 of habitat, the regional office of the Quebec Department of consisting primarily of softwood-dominant Natural Resources, located in Chibougamau. stands (97%). The remaining habitat consists of dry barrens (1%) and wetlands (2%). The Renard Project area is located in a potential wintering ground of the woodland caribou This loss of forest habitat and the vehicle noise ecotype. Historically, the woodland caribou generated during the construction, operation and ecotype used the Lac Lagopède area. However, closure of the mine infrastructure and facilities recent studies and traditional knowledge will to some extent limit the use of adjacent indicate that the woodland caribou ecotype is habitats by certain species and will restrict not present in the study area. In fact, according exchanges between populations. to the tallyman, it has not been seen since the 1990s. The closest herd of woodland caribou is Temporary or permanent habitat losses are reportedly the Témiscamie herd, in the Albanel- considered marginal for local wildlife because Mistassini-and-Waconichi Lakes Wildlife the availability of habitat is not a limiting factor Reserve (approximately 300 km to the for most of the terrestrial wildlife species in the southeast). area.

During a survey conducted in 2011, three In addition to habitat losses, the roads in the groups of caribou of the migratory ecotype were project footprint also constitute physical barriers observed between kilometres 34 and 43 of that may restrict wildlife movement to varying Camp Lagopède (the current study site). degrees depending on the species. Roads fragment the terrestrial habitat and can result in According to traditional knowledge and survey the isolation of small wetlands and a decline in data, moose are present in the entire study area. local anuran populations. However, the habitats in the study area do not appear to be suitable for maintaining a large Disturbance and mortality moose population because of the small Risks of wildlife mortality could be caused by proportion of deciduous species. the use of machinery during clearing and other construction activities as well as vehicle traffic No specific black bear survey was conducted. on the work site and on the access roads. In However, the tallyman in this area reported that addition, these activities, combined with the

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 25

new road access (Route 167) under proponent to conduct a more exhaustive study construction, could lead to issues such as concerning the characterization of the potential increased predation by wolves, collisions with effects of the Renard Project on woodland vehicles and poaching, and could therefore caribou in the region, in the short, medium and contribute to an increase in wildlife mortality. In long term. Since the woodland caribou ecotype addition, movements by affected wildlife to does not appear to be present in the study area, peripheral environments may require increased the proponent’s proposal to raise user awareness expenditure of energy, increase their about the effects of poaching on the caribou and vulnerability to predation or lead to some degree document its presence in the mine areas should of competition in the area surrounding the be sufficient to minimize any impact should any project. caribou be present.

7.5.2 Mitigation measures and residual 7.5.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance environmental effects of the residual environmental effects During implementation of the project, the Taking into account the implementation of the proponent undertakes to apply mitigation mitigation measures proposed by the proponent, measures that will help minimize habitat losses, the Agency concludes that the project is not the barrier effect as well as mortality in order to likely to cause significant adverse minimize the project’s effects on terrestrial environmental effects on wildlife and wildlife wildlife and its habitat (see Appendices 7 and habitat. 8).

Measures that will be taken to reduce the 7.6 Birds and Bird Habitat adverse impacts on terrestrial wildlife include: This component includes forest birds,  maintaining a 30-m buffer strip to protect waterfowl, members of the family Anatidae, riparian habitats; colonial birds, raptors and water birds. It also  restricting movements of machinery and includes their habitat: forests, open wetlands workers to the work areas; and water bodies.  implementing a wildlife protection plan to reduce poaching opportunities; Due to the inaccessibility of the area, there is  installing signs to indicate and protect moose relatively little information on the bird fauna of yards; the Otish Mountains. Therefore, in addition to  using sand and gravel as abrasives for winter producing a regional profile, based on the maintenance instead of calcium; studies conducted for the Route 167 project and  using silvicultural practices that promote the other projects, the proponent carried out surveys return of the woodland caribou ecotype; to establish a list of bird species found in the  raising worker awareness about the potential study area during the breeding season, in order presence of caribou and the importance of to determine their abundance and locate their protecting them; habitat.  documenting, if applicable, the movements of the woodland caribou ecotype in the mine The proponent surveyed 33 species of forest project area. birds. This group includes woodpeckers, passerine birds, and members of the family 7.5.3 Government, public and Aboriginal Tetraonidae. Despite a high probability that comments and proponent’s response these species are breeders in the study area, the The public raised concerns about the woodland proponent was only able to confirm this caribou ecotype and requested that the information for 11 species. Of the species

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known to be present in the project area, the during the construction and maintenance of the olive-sided flycatcher (threatened species) and wastewater (domestic and mine) outfalls could the rusty blackbird (species of special concern) also disturb aquatic species and species that use are two forest bird species at risk under the riparian areas as their home range. Species at Risk Act. The surveys revealed nesting of the bohemian waxwing, which merits Activities that could have adverse effects on special attention. Finally, the presence of two forest birds include clearing and grubbing that species of forest birds hunted by the Cree was will be required in both the mine area and the confirmed in the study area, i.e., spruce grouse airstrip sector. These activities will cause the and willow ptarmigan (in winter). loss of terrestrial and wetland environments that forest birds use during the breeding season. Only three species of raptors of were observed Ground-nesting waterfowl and tree-nesting during the breeding season in the 2010 and 2011 species could also be affected. In addition, the surveys. These species are the osprey, bald movement of workers, transport of supplies, and eagle and red-tailed hawk. It is possible that increased accessibility of Lac Lagopède could other species of raptors, such as peregrine falcon also cause disturbances to birds. and golden eagle, frequent the study area. The bald eagle and golden eagle are protected under Although the direct impact on the bohemian the Quebec Act respecting threatened or waxwing, olive-sided flycatcher and rusty vulnerable species. The peregrine falcon is blackbird is difficult to demonstrate, the project designated threatened under the federal Species will cause the loss of habitats potentially used at Risk Act. by these species. These birds use different critical habitats, many of which are located in In the group of waterbirds, which includes the study area and will be largely lost. waterfowl, the proponent identified 11 species in the surveys. Although all these species may … the proponent will have to breed in the study area, three species are confirmed breeders through observation of include a component on birds clutches: Canada goose, American black duck in the planned environmental and herring gull. For this group of birds, the surveys show that the most heavily used habitats monitoring program … are small lakes and ponds. In addition to habitat losses, many forest bird 7.6.1 Potential environmental effects nests could be destroyed during the construction The Federal Environmental Assessment phase. The particularly critical period for this Committee examined the project’s potential region is from May 1 to August 15; these dates effects in terms of habitat loss and alteration are provided to guide the proponent in assessing caused by construction of the project the risk of destroying migratory bird nests and infrastructure and facilities, mortality caused by contravening the Migratory Birds Convention clearing machinery and vehicle traffic on the Act. These dates are a general guide and in no access roads and increased hunting pressure. way relieves the proponent of the obligation to comply with the Migratory Birds Convention The drainage of water bodies, the preparation Act and avoid the destruction of migratory bird and development of sites near water bodies and nests. Appendix 6 provides some additional the use of watercraft that will be necessary information on this subject.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 27

Willow ptarmigan

7.6.2 Mitigation measures and residual for forest birds, which extends from May 1 to environmental effects August 15 in this area, as recommended by The proponent undertakes to implement all the the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS); mitigation measures described in Appendix 7 in  during closure, giving preference to planting order to minimize the project’s effects on birds species that are preferred by the Canada and bird habitat. goose.

The measures proposed to reduce the adverse Despite these mitigation measures, the impacts on birds include: proponent indicated that there will be a low- intensity residual impact on birds directly  beginning the pumping of water to drain lake related to the habitat loss of approximately F3302 after mid-August, after the breeding 3 km2 required for implementation of the season; project.  installing nesting boxes for waterfowl around Lac du Lagopède and neighbouring small However, not all of these losses will have lakes to maintain the number of breeding significant impacts on birds (including olive- pairs in the mine area; sided flycatcher and rusty blackbird) given the  avoiding disturbing and stripping the soil in wide availability of similar habitats in the areas where only trees need to be cut so that project area. It is probable that rusty blackbird they remain attractive hunting areas for red- and olive-sided flycatcher pairs affected by the tailed hawk and other species in this group; project will successfully become established  carrying out most of the deforestation and elsewhere, since most of the population decline clearing work for the project site in the fall of these species does not appear to be associated and winter, outside the peak breeding season with the loss of breeding habitat (COSEWIC,

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2006). The bohemian waxwing is also likely to program during the construction work, the successfully become established elsewhere, Agency concludes that the project is not likely since it does not defend a specific territory and to cause significant adverse environmental shows no tendency to return to the same nesting effects on birds and bird habitat. site. 7.7 Current Use of Lands and In order to complete the proposed mitigation Resources for Traditional Purposes measures, the proponent will have to include a and Structures, Sites or Things of component on birds in the planned Archaeological, Heritage, Historical environmental monitoring program to avoid any or Burial Significance impact on migratory birds and species at risk during the construction work. This program This section deals with the project’s effects on should also include provision to take any the use of the territory by the Cree of Mistissini, necessary actions such as establishing a buffer in particular the effects on the M11 traditional zone if a migratory bird nest is found, so as not family territory (Appendix 9) for hunting, to harm or disturb the bird or its nest or eggs fishing, trapping and gathering activities as well during the breeding season. as its archaeological, heritage, historical and burial significance. 7.6.3 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response The Renard Project is located on Category III The Federal Environmental Assessment lands3, where the Cree have specific hunting, Committee and more specifically Environment fishing and trapping rights set out in the Canada reviewed the information provided by JBNQA. All other users also have certain the proponent. Environment Canada noted that hunting and fishing rights for recreational the survey methods used are not sufficient to purposes. The use of the territory in which the provide a complete profile of the birds in the Renard Project is located is dominated by areas directly affected by the work. However, traditional Cree hunting, fishing and trapping the mitigation measures planned by the activities. proponent, including the introduction of an environmental monitoring program (Appendix The activities that take place in this area as well 10) during the work to protect the nests of as past, current and future camps were identified migratory birds and species at risk, should through the many discussions and contacts minimize the adverse impacts on birds. On the between the proponent and the tallyman. basis of the information collected and the According to the information collected by the proponent’s commitment to implement the proponent, the area is currently accessible only mitigation measures that will meet the by sea plane and snowmobile, but will become requirements of section 6 of the Migratory Birds accessible by motor vehicle once the Route 167- Regulations (Appendix 6), Environment Canada N extension project being carried out by the is of the view that the adverse impacts on birds Quebec Department of Transportation is will be minor. completed.

7.6.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance It should be noted that the environment in which of the residual environmental effects the project is located is undisturbed and that Taking into account the implementation of the there are very few human activities that generate mitigation measures and the monitoring pollutant emissions (no industrial activity). Air

3 Category III lands are defined by the land regime set out in Section 5 of the JBNQA.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 29

and water quality are generally very good. land that could be used for natural resource exploitation by M11 trapline users. To date, no archaeological surveys have been conducted within a 50-km radius of the study The main sources of impact during construction area and there are no known archaeological sites and operation will be road traffic, the use and in the study area. To document this aspect, an maintenance of machinery and generator sets, assessment of the archaeological potential was air transport, ore extraction, handling and therefore carried out as part of the storage, the management of materials generated environmental and social impact assessment. A by mining operations, the presence of facilities total of 51 areas of archaeological potential and workers, and the phased site remediation were delineated, nine of which refer to the work. These project components will generally presence of portages. The interviews conducted disrupt hunting, fishing and trapping activities with current users of the M11 trapline also in the project footprint and surrounding areas provided relevant information, including the and will cause various nuisances that will likely location of former camps, burial grounds, trails prompt a certain number of animals to move and portages. away from the construction site, while at the same time causing inconvenience to land users The tallymen identified a lake located north of (noise, dust, etc.). Lac de Bray as being an area valued by the family because it is associated with a time when It should be noted that, according to information the Cree depended on hunting and fishing for provided by Cree land users, the project site their survival, a time when fish was their main does not interfere directly with any snowmobile food source. The Cree consulted also identified trails. However, the mine project and the trail a large number of camp sites that they or other network developed by M11 trapline users will members of their family have used in the past. simultaneously evolve. Thus it is possible that Some of these sites are of historic value and are the snowmobile trails will eventually intersect part of the family heritage. with mine access roads and facilities.

The Cree consulted also identified an area that However, the proponent has undertaken to they consider to be of archaeological interest in implement a mechanism of continuous the southeast part of the trapline where communication with land users, in particular arrowheads can be found. The area was also through the environmental committee used in the past to build canoes. Some known established under the Mecheshoo Agreement. birthplaces were identified by the tallymen. It is always possible that archaeological remains 7.7.1 Potential environmental effects will be uncovered incidentally during the Site construction, preparation and development, various excavations to be made on site. In such the use and maintenance of machinery and circumstances, the archaeological sites generator sets, road and air traffic, the drainage uncovered will be treated in compliance with of lakes as well as the construction and the requirements of the Quebec Cultural operation of the mine facilities are the activities Property Act (R.S.Q., c. B-4, s. 41 and s. 42), by most likely to have impacts on use of the temporary protective measures, by assessment territory and natural resources. of findings and, where appropriate, by archaeological excavations. The domestic Site preparation and development as well as the wastewater treatment plant is located near area drainage of lakes F3302 and F3303 and the of archaeological potential No. 6 and the establishment of a security perimeter around the proponent undertakes to have an archaeologist mine facilities will remove 307 ha (3 km2) of conduct a preliminary survey of this area prior

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to construction, as soon as the necessary  posting adequate signage in areas where authorizations have been obtained. snowmobile and ATV trails might intersect with mine access and secondary roads; … the inclusion of a  prohibiting fishing, hunting and trapping on the site through clauses in worker and provision in the Mecheshoo contractor contracts; Agreement to maintain [the]  compensating for the anticipated disturbances to the tallyman, in particular relocating the environmental committee base camp located to the east of the airstrip should enable the Cree (discussions between the two parties on this subject are currently under way). stakeholders to closely monitor the project’s social From a general perspective, the proponent considers that the project will not have any and environmental issues … residual effects on the use of lands and resources for traditional purposes. 7.7.2 Mitigation measures and residual environmental effects 7.7.3 Government, public and Aboriginal The first mitigation measure that will be taken comments and proponent’s response concerning the project’s overall impact on the Throughout the development of the project, the cultural heritage of land users will be to community was consulted and had an recognize and respect the role of M11 trapline opportunity to voice its concerns and receive holders in the traditional and contemporary answers from the proponent. During the management of the area’s natural resources. In consultations that took place in Mistissini, the this way, Stornoway Diamond Corporation will Federal Environmental Assessment Committee keep local land users informed of the anticipated had an opportunity to observe that the proponent progress and location of construction work and provided satisfactory answers to questions from will be sure to discuss any accommodation community members. deemed necessary with these locals. In addition, an awareness program about Cree culture, their The Federal Environmental Assessment presence and the M11 trapline uses will be Committee believes that the proponent’s developed for all workers. initiative to establish an environmental committee, whose members include regional The mitigation measures that the proponent has stakeholders, land use managers and undertaken to implement are presented in representatives of the Council of the Cree Appendix 7. Nation of Mistissini, has made it possible to consider the problems concerning the The measures proposed to reduce the adverse environmental and social issues related to the impacts on the use of lands and resources for Renard Mine Project. traditional purposes include: In addition, the inclusion of a provision in the  reducing noisy activities (e.g. helicopter and Mecheshoo Agreement to maintain this all-terrain vehicle travel) on certain parts of environmental committee should enable the the land during the waterfowl and moose Cree stakeholders to closely monitor the hunting seasons; project’s social and environmental issues and  ensuring that the mine facilities do not collaborate on environmental issues and interfere with any boat or snowmobile creating opportunities for training on transportation; environmental issues.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 31

7.7.4 Agency’s conclusions on the significance The immediate study area encompasses the of the residual environmental effects study area defined in the environmental and Taking into account the implementation of the social impact assessment of the Renard Project mitigation measures and the efforts made by the (127 km2) and a 1 km wide strip on either side proponent to address all the concerns of the of the extension of Route 167 as well as a 250 m community of Mistissini, the Agency concludes wide strip (right-of-way) along the preliminary that the project is not likely to cause significant alignment of the electric power line linking adverse effects on the current use of lands and Camp Lagopède to the Nikamo station near resources for traditional purposes and on LG4. structures, sites or things of archaeological, heritage, historical and burial significance in the The local study area represents the spatial limits Renard mine project study area. of the potential impacts of the project as well as of other industrial and commercial activities (mining, forestry, outfitting, etc.) and recreation 7.8 Cumulative Environmental Effects and tourism activities (future parks and wildlife reserves), both existing and likely to be Cumulative environmental effects are defined as developed close to the site. This area, which the effects on the environment that are likely to incorporates the immediate study area, also result from a project when a residual effect includes activities that may be undertaken combines with the effects of other projects or within the territory of the Eastmain River human activities that have been or will be watershed, where the project is located, and carried out. This assessment of cumulative concern primarily biophysical cumulative effects is based on the Canadian Environmental effects. The local study area encompasses an Assessment Agency’s Operational Policy area of just under 95,000 km2. Statement - Addressing Cumulative Environmental Effects under the Canadian The regional study area includes the area where Environmental Assessment Act, the Cumulative the potential cumulative socio-economic Effects Assessment Practitioners Guide (1999) impacts of the project and of other activities and the proponent’s analyses. The assessment of could arise. This area includes the James Bay cumulative effects aims to identify to what region as well as the urban communities of extent the project being assessed contributes to Mistissini, Chibougamau and Chapais. overall human impacts on valued ecosystem components. The temporal boundaries for the cumulative effects assessment encompass the main projects Potential residual effects are anticipated for completed or planned between 1920 and 2050. wildlife habitats (terrestrial, wetland and aquatic environments), air quality and the use of the The past, current and future projects and lands by the Cree. Wildlife habitats and more activities identified by the proponent are as specifically the aquatic environment are the follows: valued components most likely to be subject to cumulative effects.  the former Troilus mine;  the former Chibougamau mining camp with 7.8.1 Scope the former Copper Rand and Principale gold For the cumulative effects assessment, the and copper mines, and the Joe Mann, Portage proponent determined several spatial boundaries and Cook mines; in order to consider the various valued  the Springer and Perry (Opimiska) mines; environmental components.  the former Eastman gold mine;

32 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

 the Éléonore gold project; peatlands). Logging activities represent  the Blackrock iron, titanium and vanadium approximately 2% of the local study area. project; Considering that the anticipated habitat losses  the Macleod Lake copper/molybdenum for the Renard Project are approximately 307 ha project; of terrestrial and wetland environments and 4 ha  the Eastmain Mine and Ruby Hill gold of aquatic environment, this represents less than project; 0.003% of the local study area.  the Matoush uranium project;  the Whabouchi mining project; The aquatic environment will be affected by all  the Lavoie uranium project; the mining projects, to varying degrees.  the Chantiers Chibougamau logging and Although mine effluents must be controlled and forest development work, Forest Management treated before being discharged into waterways, Unit (UAF) 026-61 and UAF 026-62; routine site operations will result in a certain  the extension of Route 167 and other road quantity of suspended sediment, nutrient and links; contaminant loading. Past activities have  the power transmission lines (between probably impacted the terrestrial, wetland and Laforge-1 and the Renard mine site and the aquatic environments. In the case of the Renard Macleod Lake project facilities); Project, studies conducted by the proponent  recreation, tourism and conservation suggest that the discharges of effluents into Lac activities, including the Assinica and Albanel- Lagopède will disperse quickly from the Mistassini-and-Waconichi Lakes Wildlife discharge points. From the perspective of Reserves, the proposed Albanel- cumulative effects, the spatial extent of the Téminscamie-Otish Biodiversity Reserve and plumes in Lac Lagopède should be limited to the proposed Hirondelle Biodiversity Reserve. the northern (mining effluent) and southern (domestic effluent) sections of the lake and 7.8.2 Potential cumulative environment should not have a cumulative effect with other effects projects. No other effluents from other mining Terrestrial, wetland and aquatic environments projects are discharged into this lake. In the local study area, past and current projects and projects in the advanced stage of 7.8.3 Mitigation measures and residual development (Matoush, Macleod Lake, cumulative environmental effects Eastmain Mine and Ruby Hill, Lavoie), if they Throughout the planning of the project, the are carried out, will cause the destruction of proponent has endeavoured to concentrate the natural terrestrial, wetland and aquatic infrastructure and facilities in order to minimize environments related to the surface area of the the project’s footprint, thereby also reducing facilities (pits, tailing sites, plants, other this project’s contribution to cumulative habitat infrastructure, etc.). Although it is difficult to losses. The applicable mitigation measures quantify these losses, the proponent estimates described in section 7.3 on water quality will that the cumulative areas would be minimize the project’s cumulative effects on the approximately 1,700 ha per project, which aquatic environment. corresponds approximately to the surface area occupied by the Osisko project. The disturbed In addition, the water management plan area of all the potential mining sites would established by the proponent and the regulatory represent 0.08% of the local study area. In terms requirements (e.g. Fisheries Act, Wastewater of the other infrastructure projects, the Systems Effluent Regulations) that the proponent construction of Route 167 would result in the will have to meet concerning criteria at the loss of approximately 3,450 ha of terrestrial mining and domestic effluent outfalls will habitat and nearly 38 ha of wetlands (mainly minimize the direct effects of the project and,

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 33

consequently, their cumulative potential with effects of the environment on the project and the effects of other projects and activities, proposed various measures intended to reduce particularly on the aquatic environment. these effects, taking into consideration the mine construction, operation and closure phases. 7.8.4 Government, public and Aboriginal comments and proponent’s response 7.9.2 Potential effects The Federal Environmental Assessment The potential effects of the environment on the Committee assessed the cumulative project are associated with natural events, such environmental effects of the project. In general, as violent storms, forest fires and earthquakes. the cumulative effects of other projects and activities with the Renard Diamond Mine To assess the probability of extreme rainfall at Project were considered of low magnitude. This the project site, and because of the lack of a low cumulative impact is primarily the result of weather station in the study area, the proponent the distance separating the projects (on average used data from the Nitchequon weather station, 100 km) and the small overall footprint of these which is the station located closest to the project projects in the receiving environments given the site and at the same latitude. According to the vast size of the geographic area concerned. data measured at Nitchequon based on Canadian precipitation maps, the highest recorded rainfall To counter the effects of occurring in one day was 59.7 mm. This extreme precipitation value corresponds to a extreme rainfall, the proponent return period of 25 to 50 years. plans to construct a network of Forest dynamics in the Renard Project area are ditches and culverts to collect influenced by various disturbances, the most and, if necessary, treat runoff significant of which is forest fires. According to available data, three fires disturbed the Renard from the site … Project area between 1935 and 1970.

7.8.5 Agency’s conclusions on the significance In terms of earthquakes, the Renard Project is of the residual cumulative environmental located in the Precambrian Shield, far from any effects seismic activity. Taking into account the mitigation measures and the follow-up program that the proponent will 7.9.3 Mitigation measures and residual implement for all the valued components, the effects Agency concludes that the project is not likely The proponent has proposed various measures to cause significant adverse cumulative intended to reduce the environmental effects environmental effects on the terrestrial, wetland associated with extreme climatic conditions and or aquatic environment. forest fires.

The proponent has submitted an emergency 7.9 Effects of the Environment on the response plan which considers the effects of the Project environment on the project, associated with extreme climatic conditions and forest fires, and 7.9.1 Approach outlines the measures planned to ensure the The definition of “environmental effect” safety of mine personnel. This plan specifies the provided in the former Act includes any change applicable procedures and specific equipment to to the project that may be caused by the be used during forest fires, as well as the roles, environment. The proponent examined the responsibilities and organization of the various

34 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

parties concerned as well as the resources 7.10.2 Potential effects available to respond in the event of major In the context of this project, the accidents and environmental incidents. malfunctions that could result in accidental spills of contaminants are associated with the To counter the effects of extreme rainfall, the use and maintenance of equipment, generator proponent plans to construct a network of sets and vehicles, the use of hazardous ditches and culverts to collect and, if necessary, materials, including explosives, and the transfer treat runoff from the site, as well as to control of petroleum products from tanker truck to a the quality of this runoff before it is discharged tank. Depending on the type, extent and location into Lac Lagopède. of the spill, the magnitude of the effects on the environment could be significant. Explosions 7.9.4 Government, public and Aboriginal and fires could also occur, the potential sources comments and proponent’s response being the explosives magazines, the propane According to the Atlas of Canada, the and fuel storage areas as well as electric assessment of the forest fire risk, based on transformers. climatic conditions and type of vegetation, indicates that the area affected by the project is 7.10.3 Mitigation measures and residual located in a low to moderate risk zone. effects The proponent has committed to implement its The Natural Resources Canada analysis environmental emergency response program and confirms that the probability of a major operating procedures for situations that pose a earthquake in this region is very low, indeed high potential risk. This program will detail the essentially nil. preventive and response measures in the event of accidental spills and leaks, fire and 7.9.5 Agency’s conclusions on the significance explosions at the mine site as well as the of the residual environmental effects procedures for handling and storing petroleum Taking into account the implementation of the products and chemicals. The emergency proponent’s environmental monitoring and response plan will describe the roles, emergency measures program, the Agency responsibilities and organization of the parties concludes that environmental conditions are not involved, the availability of resources and the likely to have significant adverse effects on the coordination and response mechanisms as well project. as the training requirements. For storage sites, the proponent will implement a management plan that will comply with applicable 7.10 Effects of Possible Accidents or regulations, including the Regulation respecting Malfunctions hazardous materials, Transportation of Dangerous Substances Regulation and 7.10.1 Approach Regulation under the Act respecting explosives. The environmental effects caused by accidents The principles that will be applied to reduce the or malfunctions are among the factors to be risk of accidents are: minimizing the transfer of examined pursuant to the former Act. The hazardous materials, reducing the use of proponent identified the activities most likely to hazardous materials at the source and cause accidents or malfunctions during the mine establishing a tracking mechanism for construction, operation and closure phases, their hazardous materials. potential adverse environmental effects, as well as the planned emergency response measures. A key component of the proponents’ emergency management program is prevention through an employee training and awareness approach,

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 35

which is intended to ensure a fast, effective 7.11 Effects on the Capacity of response in the event of a disaster or spill that Renewable Resources could have impacts on the environment. Considering the isolation of the project site, the In accordance with the requirements of proponent plans to provide all the necessary subsection 16(2) of the former Act, the Agency resources to respond in the event of emergency must consider the capacity of renewable situations. This approach is particularly resources likely to be significantly affected by important in view of the fact that the project is the project to meet the needs of the present located 360 km from the nearest town. without compromising the possibility for future generations to meet their needs. In order to The purpose of a follow-up assess whether the capacity of a renewable resource would be adversely affected, the program is to verify the accuracy Agency determined that the residual adverse of the environmental effects on the resources would have to be significant enough to threaten the integrity of assessment of a project and to the ecosystem or resources in question. In the determine the effectiveness of case of this project, the Agency concluded, after assessment, that none of the residual adverse [mitigation] measures … effects of the project had these characteristics.

Taking into account the implementation of the 8. Follow-up Program mitigation measures and the communication and emergency management mechanisms, the The purpose of a follow-up program is to verify proponent believes that it can minimize the the accuracy of the environmental assessment of risks, losses and damage caused by accidents or a project and to determine the effectiveness of malfunctions. any measures taken to mitigate the adverse environmental effects of the project. In addition, 7.10.4 Government, public and Aboriginal the results of a follow-up program will support comments and proponent’s response the implementation of adaptive management The Federal Environmental Assessment measures to react to unforeseen adverse effects Committee notes that the preventive measures or change existing measures if necessary. The proposed by the proponent, such as secure tank anticipated adverse effects for this project as storage, should reduce the probability of the well as the measures that will be implemented to occurrence of accidents or malfunctions. In mitigate those effects are described in section 7 addition, in the event of an accidental spill, the of this report. emergency measures and responses will reduce the effects on the environment. Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Natural Resources Canada will be responsible for the 7.10.5 Agency’s conclusions on the follow-up program and, with the support of the significance of the residual environmental relevant federal authorities, will ensure that the effects proponent designs and implements a detailed The Agency concludes that potential accidents program. and malfunctions associated with the project are not likely to have significant adverse The table in Appendix 10 outlines the approach environmental effects if the proponent applies and the objectives the proponent will use to its environmental emergency response program develop the follow-up program required by the and operating procedures. federal authorities pertaining to water quality,

36 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

fish and fish habitat, and birds and bird habitat. 9. Benefits of Environmental The program will take into account the Assessment conditions of the federal and provincial authorizations and approvals required for the The comprehensive study process gave the implementation of the project, as well as public and the Crees opportunities to participate changes in environmental conditions and the in the improvement of the project. In observation of environmental effects that may collaboration with the Federal Environmental arise while the project is being carried out. Assessment Committee, the Agency reviewed and assessed the information gathered during As part of the follow-up program, the proponent the environmental assessment process. This must produce reports presenting and interpreting environmental assessment process helped to the results and describing any necessary improve the design of the project and to reduce corrective measures. The proponent will submit the environmental effects of its construction and the reports to Fisheries and Oceans Canada and operation. As a result, the design, construction, Natural Resources Canada, as well as to the operation and decommissioning of the project relevant monitoring committees. The results of are not based only on technical or economic the follow-up program will be made publicly criteria, but also incorporate environmental available on the Canadian Environmental criteria that promote a balanced approach that is Assessment Registry. in keeping with the principles of sustainable development. The comprehensive study Early on, the proponent designed its project process gave the public taking into account the comments received from and the Crees the public, which helped to reduce the project’s ecological footprint. The proponent selected the opportunities to participate alternative with a lesser impact that better meets in the improvement of the its technical and economic criteria. project. During the federal review, changes were made to the project in response to comments received Follow-up of the fish habit compensation from experts, the public and Aboriginal groups. program For example, Fisheries and Oceans Canada The proponent will carry out a follow-up helped the proponent ensure that undertakings program designed to assess the effectiveness of were designed so as to reduce fish habitat loss all the components of the compensation and disturbance and to protect and reduce program and to ensure that the stated objectives encroachment on the aquatic environment. have been achieved. The purpose of the Moreover, at the request of Fisheries and compensation program is to comply with the Oceans Canada, a compensation program was principle of no net loss of fish habitat pursuant prepared by the proponent for loss of fish to the Fisheries Act. The compensation habitat; this program, which is supported by program, which was modified following several stakeholders of the Cree community of discussions with the Federal Environmental Mistissini, will create fish habitats. Assessment Committee as well as with the Cree community of Mistissini, will be finalized with In compliance with environmental assessment Fisheries and Oceans Canada when DFO issues requirements, the proponent has developed its authorizations. monitoring and follow-up plans aimed at

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 37

protecting the environment. Consequently, 11. References throughout the various phases of the project, these programs will enable the proponent to Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. make changes and adjustments to its facilities Addressing Cumulative Environmental Effects and its operations in order to minimize the under the Canadian Environmental Assessment impacts on the environment. Act. Operational Policy Statement. http://www.acee- 10. The Agency’s Conclusion ceaa.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=1F77F3C2- and Recommendations 1. November 2007.

… the Agency concludes that Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. Addressing “Need for,” “Purpose of,” the Project is not likely to cause “Alternatives to” and “Alternative Means” significant adverse under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. http://www.acee- environmental effects. ceaa.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En&n=5C072E13- 1. November 2007. To reach a conclusion on the significance of the environmental effects of the project, the Agency Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. took into account the following elements in its Cumulative Effects Assessment Practitioners’ analysis: Guide. 1999.

 The documentation submitted by the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. proponent; Renard Diamond Mine Project. Scope of the  The analyses and findings of the Federal federal environmental assessment (update). Environmental Assessment Panel; June 2011. 20 p.  Opinions and advice received from the public and the Mistissini Aboriginal community; Golder Associates. Business Case Study Water  The proponent’s obligations, as described in Management Plan. Report submitted to the certificate of authorization issued in Stornoway Diamond Corporation. December 27, accordance with the Loi sur la qualité de 2011. l’environnement du Québec;  The obligation to obtain authorizations under Golder Associates. Analyse de l’incidence du subsection 35(2) of the Fisheries Act for any projet minier sur le niveau d’eau de sept lacs – work resulting in the loss and disruption of Projet Renard, Stornoway. Presented to fish and their habitat; Stornoway Diamond Corporation. December  The approval required under the Explosives 2012. Act. Gouvernement du Québec. Plan Nord, Taking into account the implementation of Document de consultation. mitigation measures described in this http://www.protegerlenord.mddep.gouv.qc.ca/d comprehensive study report and the oc/Document-consultation-FR.pdf. 2011, 11 p. commitments made by the proponent (see appendix 7), the Agency concludes that the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement Project is not likely to cause significant adverse and Complementary Agreements. Les environmental effects. The proponent will also Publications du Québec. 1998. 754 p. need to implement a follow-up program and share the results with federal authorities.

38 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

La Société pour vaincre la pollution. Mine Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Environmental Renard. Memoir submitted to the Canadian and Social Impact Assessment. Renard Diamond Environmental Assessment Agency for the Project. Summary Report. Presented to comprehensive study of the Renard Diamond Stornoway Diamond Corporation. December Mine Project. June 2012. 2011.

Nature Québec. L’exploitation du diamant : à Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Environmental quel prix ? Memoir submitted to the Canadian Baseline Study: Summary of Environmental Environmental Assessment Agency for the Knowledge. Presented to Stornoway Diamond comprehensive study of the Renard Diamond Corporation. December 2011. Mine Project. June 2012. Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Étude Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Complément environnementale de base: Rapport sectoriel, d’information à l’étude d’impact – Réponses au milieu biologique. Presented to Stornoway mémoire de la Société pour vaincre la pollution. Diamond Corporation. 2011. Stornoway Diamond Corporation. August 2012. Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Étude Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Complément environnementale de base: Rapport sectoriel, d’information à l’étude d’impact – Réponses au milieu physique. Presented to Stornoway mémoire de Nature Québec. Presented to Diamond Corporation. 2011. Stornoway Diamond Corporation. August 2012. Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Renard Diamond Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Environmental Mine Project: Restoration Plan. Presented to and Social Impact Assessment of the Renard Stornoway Diamond Corporation. December Diamond Project: Volume 1 – Main Report V.0. 2011. Presented to Stornoway Diamond Corporation. December 2011. Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Responses to Questions and Comments Raised by the Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Environmental Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. and Social Impact Assessment of the Renard Presented to Stornoway Diamond Corporation. Diamond Project: Volume 1 – Main Report V.2- August 2012. Appendices. Presented to Stornoway Diamond Corporation. December 2011. Stornoway Diamond Corporation. Projet diamantifère Renard – Étude d’impact Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Environmental environnemental et social : Complément and Social Impact Assessment of the Renard d’information. Document submitted to the Diamond Project: Volume 1 – Main Report V.3- Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. Compendium of Maps. Presented to Stornoway April 4, 2012. Diamond Corporation. December 2011.

Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of the Renard Diamond Project: Volume 1 – Main Report V.4- Technical Drawings of Mine Infrastructures and Ancillary Facilities. Presented to Stornoway Diamond Corporation. December 2011.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 39

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40 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

Appendix 1: Pugh Decision Matrix Used to Analyze Airstrip Alternatives #14 and #15

CAPEX (+/- 50%) 0 0 OPEX (+/- 50%) 0 0 Total Cost - NPV (+/- 50%) 0 0

Evaluation Criteria Base Case Concept 2 Concept 1

Selection Criteria Priority Rank Alternative #14 Alternative #15

CAPEX (Including Closure Cost) High 9 Same 0 Worse -9 OPEX High 9 Same 0 Same 0 NPV High 9 Same 0 Worse -9 Average for Category 0 -18 Weighted Subtotal 50% 0 -9 Environmental - Impact on the Environment High 9 Same 0 Worse -9 Environmental – Long-term Risks Moderate 6 Same 0 Same 0 Environmental - Biodiversity Restoration Moderate 6 Same 0 Same 0 Average for Category 0 -9 Weighted Subtotal 20% 0 -1.8 Acceptance by Interest Groups Low 3 Same 0 Same 0 Acceptance by the Crees High 9 Same 0 Same 0 Average for Category 0 0 Weighted Subtotal 10% 0 0 Regulations and Policies - Compliance With High 9 Same 0 Same 0 Regulations and Policies - Degree of Difficulty in High 9 Same 0 Better 9 Obtaining Approvals Average for Category 0 9 Weighted Subtotal 10% 0 0.9 Safety Risk - During Construction High 9 Same 0 Same 0 Safety Risk - During Operation High 9 Same 0 Better 9 Operability Moderate 6 Same 0 Better 6 Constructability / Logistic - Difficulty Moderate 6 Same 0 Worse -6 Long-term Opportunity for Future Development Moderate 6 Same 0 Same 0

Average for Category 0 9 Weighted Subtotal 10% 0 0.9 Raw Total 0 -9 Weighted Total 100% 0 -9 Matrix: Better = Better option than Base Case/ Same= Same evaluation as Base Case/ Worse = Poorer option than Base Case Source: Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. 2011. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of the Renard Diamond Project: Volume 1 – Main Report V.0 presented to Stornoway Diamond Corporation.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 41

Appendix 2: General Layout of Infrastructures and Mining Facilities

Source: Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. December 2011. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of the Renard Diamond Project: Volume 1 – Main Report V.0 presented to Stornoway Diamond Corporation.

42 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

Appendix 3: Evaluation Results for the Processed Kimberlite Confinement Area Site Alternatives

Indicator Description Explanation Site Site Site Site Site A B C D E

Environmental Aspect

Proportion of watersheds A=43 %, B=22 %, C=40%, D=40%, E=27% 0 100 14 14 76 affected Number of watersheds A=1, B=2, C=3, D=3, E=2 100 20 0 0 20 affected Position in the watershed All in the upstream portion of the watershed 0 0 0 0 0 Actual distance from body A=0, B=98, C=27, D=22, E=0 0 100 28 22 0 of water (river or lake) in m The distances are calculated as straight line distances (as the bird flies). The site E groundwater thalwegs were considered since the latter will also be affected by the layout. Watercourse diversion A=Yes, B=No, C=No, D=Yes, E=Yes 100 100 100 100 100 Stream crossing by A=2, B=2, C=5, D=6, E=2 100 100 25 0 100 road/pipeline Presence of fish habitat on A= Yes, B= No, C= No, D= Yes, E= No 0 100 100 0 100 the site Presence of fish A=160, B=100, C=27, D=22, E=66. Where data is 100 57 4 0 32 downstream Distance in m unavailable for certain sites, the distances are calculated as straight line distances towards the closest lake. Distance from a spawning A=less than one km, B= unknown, C= less than one km, 0 50 0 50 0 ground D= unknown, E=unknown. B, D, and E are unknown because the bodies of water had not been inventoried when Golder Associated ltd, (Feb. 2011) did the study. Area of wetland on the site A=5,590 B=2,223 C=11,475 D=95, E=2,400 52 81 0 100 80 in m2 Distance from a A=0, B=25, C=0, D=0, E=77. The distances are 0 32 0 0 100 downstream wetland in m calculated as straight line distances towards the closest wetland. Deforestation required (in A=711,187, B=674,540, C=728,178, D=719,977, 34 100 3 18 0 m2) E=729,791; Plant population or Information was unavailable when Golder did the study 50 50 50 50 50 presence of a habitat of (Feb. 2011). interest on the site Distance from a park, a No protected area or regulated wildlife habitat in 50 50 50 50 50 protected habitat, or a high proximity. These sites are more than 50 km away, such value habitat as the planned Albanel-Temiscamie-Otish National Park. However, a swallow biodiversity reserve project exists about 30 km east of Lagopede Camp. Presence of special status Up to the present, no special status species were 100 100 100 100 100 flower species within the discovered in the Renard Project study area. confinement area footprint

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 43

Appendix 3: Evaluation Results for the Processed Kimberlite Confinement Area Site Alternatives (cont’d)

Indicator Description Explanation Site Site Site Site Site A B C D E

Presence of special status A=Yes, B=Potential habitat, C= Potential habitat, D=Yes, 0 25 25 0 25 wildlife species E= Potential habitat. Brook trout, a species of interest and subsistence according to the ministère du Développement durable, de l’Environnement et des Parcs (MDDEP) at sites A and D, and the Cooper Lemming Campagnol (Synaptomus coopen), a species likely to be designated threatened or vulnerable according to the Quebec Threatened and Vulnerable Species Law at site D. “Potential habitat” for the other sites because these sites have not been inventoried. Waterfowl presence Information unavailable at the time of the Golder study 100 100 100 100 100 (Feb., 2011) or no lake likely to house the waterfowl nesting sites on the project site. Length of road or pipeline A=2,306 B=2,503 C=4,832 D= 5,658 E=2,986. 94 88 23 0 100 (footprint) in m Environmental aspect score (%) 45 68 35 35 58

Social Aspect

Visual impact The sites will always be partially visible from the ski-doo 40 40 40 40 40 trails Traditional activity area A=In proximity, B=On the site, C=On the site, D=On the 50 0 0 0 50 (Cree) site, E=In proximity. Sites B, C, and D are in a moose hunting ground and/or a trapline. Recreational tourist A=Activity not impacted, B= Activity not impacted, C= 100 100 100 75 100 activities and Activity not impacted, D=Activity slightly impacted, infrastructures and E=Activity not impacted. vacation area nearby It is considered that the ski-doo trial in the site D area will be slightly impacted because the trail goes around the site. The trail can be easily moved without disrupting the activity to a significant degree. The other sites do not interfere with the ski-doo trails or other types of activities. Land tenure All on crown land 100 100 100 100 100 Archeological site, cultural No archeological site within the limits of the sites 100 100 100 100 100 or patrimonial asset Social aspect score (%) 77 60 60 57 77

Economic Aspect

Volume of dykes A=13.8 Mm3 B=14.5 Mm3 C=15.9 Mm3 D=15.0 Mm3 E= 100 77 27 59 0 16.6 Mm3 Stockpile height A=88 m, B=136 m, C=89 m, D=77m, E=91 m 81 0 80 100 76 Stockpile area (cover, A=0.815 Mm3 B=0.855 Mm3 C=0.808 Mm3 D=0.677 Mm3 22 0 26 100 50 liner) E= 0.65 Mm3 Possibility of expansion A=No possibility – significant lakes to the north and 0 25 50 25 75 south, and topographical limits to the east and west; B=Possibility of minor expansion to the west; C=Possibility to the north and south despite few rivers/streams; D=Possibility to the southwest, limited by lakes; E=Major possibility to the northeast.

44 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

Appendix 3: Evaluation Results for the Processed Kimberlite Confinement Area Site Alternatives (cont’d)

Indicator Description Explanation Site Site Site Site Site A B C D E

Deviation/Compensation A=One or two simple deviations, moderate 75 100 25 75 25 compensation required; B=No deviation or compensation required; C=No deviation possible but major compensation; D=No deviation possible but minor compensation required; E=No deviation possible but moderate compensation required. Maximum elevation A=-44 m B=-64 m C=-36.5 m D=-46.6 m E=-46.5 m 73 0 100 64 64 change between the concentrator and the output point Length of main or trucking A=2.37 km B=2.48 km C=4.99 km D=5.75 km E=2.09 km 92 89 21 0 100 distance Site accessibility A=2.37 km B=2.48 km C=1.0 km D=1.6 km E=1.12 km 8 0 100 59 92 Consequence of a In all cases, no population is at risk and there will be no 50 75 50 75 100 dyke/containment failure loss of infrastructure. For the environment A=Loss or deterioration of a major part of the fish or wildlife habitat; B=No significant loss or deterioration of the fish or wildlife habitat; C=Loss or deterioration of a major part of the fish or wildlife habitat; D=No significant loss or deterioration of the fish or wildlife habitat; E: No long- term loss. Economic aspect score (%) 58 44 48 65 61 Source: Roche Ltd, Consulting Group. December 2011. Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of the Renard Diamond Project: Volume 1 – Main Report V.0 presented to Stornoway Diamond Corporation.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 45

Appendix 4.1: Domestic Wastewater Treatment System Alternative Analysis

Evaluation Criteria for Alternatives Criteria Criteria Value Based on Class Result for Each Alternative Weighting Class Weighting Facultative RBC (pts) Aerated (bio-discs) Lagoons

Technical Feasibility

Treatment system operation and 2.5 Complex 1 Easy Complex maintenance Easy 2 5 2.5 Overload efficiency during peak periods 2.5 Low 1 High Low High 2 5 2.5 Sludge management 2.5 Complex 1 Complex Easy

Easy 2 5 2.5 Treatment efficiency during winter 2.5 Low/Average 1 Low/Average High High 2 2.5 5

Environmental Aspects

Respect of effluent standards 5 No 1 Yes Yes Yes 2 10 10 Encroachment on the territory 5 Moderate 1 Moderate Weak Weak 2 5 10

Socio-economic Aspects

Construction and operation costs 10 Moderate 1 Low Moderate Low 2 20 10

Total 52.5 42.5

46 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

Appendix 4.2: Characteristics of the Site Alternatives for the Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant

Evaluation Criteria for Alternatives Treated Effluent Domestic Wastewater Treatment Discharge Point Plant Alternative Alternative A B C

Length of effluent pipeline from the water treatment 1 630 490 760 plant to the discharge point (m) 2 1,240 450 160 3 1,050 300 240 4 132 890 1,260 5 840 360 530 Length of domestic wastewater pipeline from the 700 1,100 1,300 accommodation complex to the water treatment plant (m)

Altitude of the treatment plant (m) 484 488 476 Method to distribute the wastewater to the domestic Maximum change in 488 490 498 wastewater treatment plant altitude over the route (m)

Pump/Gravity Pump Pump Pump

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 47

Appendix 4.3: Assessment Results of the Site Alternatives for the Final Effluent Discharge Point of Treated Domestic Wastewater

Evaluation Criteria for Criteria Position of the Discharge Value of Criterion Parameter Alternatives Weighting1 Point with respect to the Criteria

Direction Score (pts) Class Score (pts)

Technical Criteria

Distance between the 0.11 >300 m 1 discharge point and the 150 ≥ 300 m 2 shore < 150 m 3 Length of the wastewater 0.47 >1,000 m 1 pipeline between the 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 accommodation complex and the treatment plant < 500 m 3 Length of the pipeline 0.11 >300 m 1 between the treatment 150 ≥ 300 m 2 plant and the final treated effluent discharge point < 150 m 3 Method to distribute the 0.31 Pump 1 wastewater to the Gravity 2 treatment plant Sub-total

1 Weighting was done using the multi-criteria hierarchy method (MHM) (CCI software): http://www.cci-icc.gc.ca/tools/ahp/index_e.aspx.

48 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

(Appendix 4.3)

Results for each evaluation criterion for the various plant site alternatives and treated wastewater discharge points

B C A B

1 2 3 4 5

245 m 41 m 275 m 29 m 37 m 0.21 0.32 0.21 0.32 0.32

1,100 m 1,300 m 1,300 m 900 m 1,100 m 0.47 0.47 0.47 0.94 0.47

490 m 160 m 240 m 132 m 360 m 0.11 0.22 0.22 0.33 0.11

Gravity Pump Pump Gravity Gravity 0.6192 0.3096 0.3096 0.6192 0.6192

1.42 1.33 1.22 2.22 1.52

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 49

Appendix 4.3: Assessment Results of the Site Alternatives for the Final Effluent Discharge Point of Treated Domestic Wastewater (cont’d)

Evaluation Criteria for Criteria Position of the Discharge Value for a Criterion Parameter Alternatives Weighting1 Point with respect to the Criteria

Direction Score (pts) Class Score (pts)

Physical Criteria

Maximum water depth 0.20 <3 m 1 near the discharge point 3 ≥ 6 m 2 > 6 m 3 Thermocline presence 0.11 No 1 (summer) Yes 2 Distance of a tributary that 0.06 < 500 m 1 can favour the dispersion 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 and diliution of the treated effluent > 1,000 m 3 Environmental 0.17 < 90% 1 characteristics: dissolved > 90% 2 oxygen on the surface (% O2) Type of substrate 0.13 Unconsolidated sediment 1 (Om) Rocks (potential fraying 2 substrate for whitefish) Sand (potential fraying 2 substrate for whitefish) Gravel (potential fraying 3 substrate for brook trout and whitefish) Blocks and large blocks 3 (potential fraying substrate for lake trout and whitefish) Distance from an aquatic 0.05 < 0.5 km 1 grass bed 0.5 ≥ 1 km 2 >1 km 3 Current in the area 0.18 Weak (+ to ++) 1 Moderate (+++ to ++++) 2 Strong (+++++) 3 Exposure to prevailing 0.10 Downwash 1 winds (west) Dispersion 2 Sub-total

50 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

(Appendix 4.3)

Results for each evaluation criterion for the various plant site alternatives and treated wastewater discharge points

B C A B

1 2 3 4 5

5 m 1 m 7.5 m 7.5 m 5 m 0.40 0.20 0.60 0.60 0.40

Yes No Yes Yes Yes 0.2256 0.1128 0.2256 0.2256 0.2256 400 m 600 m 600 m 300 m 400 m

0.06 0.11 0.11 0.06 0.06

88.6% 95.7% 97.5% 90.3% 86.8% 0.1703 0.3406 0.3406 0.3406 0.1703

Om Om Om Om Om

0.1338 0.1338 0.1338 0.1338 0.1338

0.5 ≥ 1km < 0.5km < 0.5km 0.5 ≥ 1km 0.5 ≥ 1km 0.0988 0 0 0.0988 0.0988

+++++ + +++ ++++ ++ 0.5451 0.1817 0.3634 0.3634 0.1817

2 1 1 1 1 0.19 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 1.82 1.18 1.87 1.91 1.36

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 51

Appendix 4.3: Assessment Results of the Site Alternatives for the Final Effluent Discharge Point of Treated Domestic Wastewater (cont’d)

Alternatives Evaluation Criteria Position of the Discharge Value for a Criterion Parameter Criteria Weighting1 Point with respect to the Criteria

Direction Score (pts) Class Score (pts)

Biological Criteria

Distance from a known 0.54 Upstream 1 < 500 m 1 spawning ground 500 m ≥ 1,000 m 2 Downstream 2 >1,000 m 3 Distance from a known 0.30 Upstream 1 < 500 m 1 rearing area 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 Downstream 2 >1000 m 3 Distance from a narrowing 0.10 < 500 m 1 in the lake that could 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 consititute a fish migration route >1000 m 3 Presence of structural 0.06 Yes 1 elements that could serve No 2 as fish shelters Sub-total

Human Criteria

Distance from a fishing 0.5 Upstream 1 < 500 m 1 site mapped by the Cree Downstream 2 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 >1000 m 3 Distance from the planned 0.5 Upstream 1 < 500 m 1 drinking water intake Downstream 2 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 >1,000 m 3 Sub-total Total Rank

52 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

(Appendix 4.3)

Results for each evaluation criterion for the various plant site alternatives and treated wastewater discharge points

B C A B

1 2 3 4 5

495 m 1,200 m 1,100 m 200 m 700 m 1.07 3.22 3.22 0.54 2.14

500 ≥ 1,000 m >1,000 m >1,000 m < 500 m 500 ≥ 1,000 m 1.2036 1.8054 1.8054 0.3009 1.2036

< 500 m < 500 m < 500 m 500 ≥ 1,000 m < 500 m 0.1007 0.1007 0.1007 0.2014 0.1007

Yes No No No Yes 0.0625 0.125 0.125 0.125 0.0625

2.44 5.25 5.25 1.16 3.51

200 m 900 m 700 m 500 m 400 m 1 2 2 1 1

> 1,000 m > 1,000 m > 1,000 m > 1,000 m > 1,000 m 3 3 3 3 3

4 5 5 4 4 9.68 12.75 13.34 9.29 10.40 4 2 1 5 3

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 53

Appendix 4.4: Assessment Results of the Site Alternatives for the Mine Effluent Final Discharge Point

Evaluation Criteria for Criteria Position of the Discharge Value for Criterion Parameters Alternatives Weighting1 Point with respect to the Criteria

Direction Score (pts) Class Score (pts)

Technical Criteria

Length of the pipeline 1.00 N/A N/A >2,000 m 1 between the R-65 500 ≥ 2,000 m 2 sedimentation pond and the final mine effluent < 500 m 3 discharge point Sub-total

Physical Criteria

Maximum water depth 0.36 N/A N/A <1 m 1 near the discharge point 1 ≥ 10 m 2 > 10 m 3 Distance of a tributary that 0.20 N/A N/A > 1,000 m 1 can favour the dispersion 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 and diliution of the mine effluent < 500 m 3 Type of substrate2 0.11 N/A N/A Unconsolidated sediment 1 (Om) Rock 2 Sand 3 Gravel 4 Blocks and large blocks 5 Current in the area 0.23 N/A N/A Weakest (+) 1 Moderate (++) 2 Strongest (+++) 3 Exposure to prevailing 0.10 N/A N/A Downwash (DW) 1 winds (west) Dispersion (DP) 2 Sub-total

1 Weighting was done using the multi-criteria hierarchy method (MHM) (CCI software): http://www.cci-icc.gc.ca/tools/ahp/index_e.aspx. 2 Relationship between the type of substrate and the preferred spawning substrate for whitefish, brook trout, and lake trout:  Rocks (potential fraying substrate for whitefish)  Sand (potential fraying substrate for whitefish)  Gravel (potential fraying substrate for brook trout and whitefish)  Blocks and large blocks (potential fraying substrate for lake trout and whitefish)

54 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

(Appendix 4.4)

Result for Each Evaluation Criterion for the Alternative Mine Effluent Discharge Points

1 2 3 4

160 m 890 m 2,470 m 1,340 m 3.0 2.0 1.0 2.0

3.0 2.0 1.0 2.0

5.5 m 11.2 m 8 m 12.7 m 0.72 1.08 0.72 1.08

120 m 520 m 200 m 380 m 0.59 0.40 0.59 0.59

Om Om Om Om

0.11 0.11 0.11 0.11

+ ++ ++ +++ 0.23 0.45 0.45 0.68

DW DP DW DP 0.10 0.21 0.10 0.21 1.75 2.24 1.98 2.67

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 55

Appendix 4.4: Assessment Results of the Site Alternatives for the Mine Effluent Final Discharge Point (cont’d)

Alternatives Evaluation Criteria Position of the Discharge Value for Criterion Parameters Criteria Weighting 1 Point with respect to the Criteria

Direction Score (pts) Class Score (pts)

Biological Criteria

Distance from a known 0.5 Upstream 1 < 1,000 m 1 spawning ground Downstream 2 ≥ 1,000 m 2 Distance from a known 0.5 Upstream 1 < 1,000 m 1 rearing area Downstream 2 ≥ 1,000 m 2 Sub-total

Human Criteria

Distance from an existing 0.5 Upstream 1 < 500 m 1 fishing site Downstream 2 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 >1,000 m 3 Distance from the planned 0.5 Upstream 1 < 500 m 1 drinking water intake Downstream 2 500 ≥ 1,000 m 2 >1,000 m 3 Sub-total Total Rank

56 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

(Appendix 4.4)

Result for Each Evaluation Criterion for the Alternative Mine Effluent Discharge Points

1 2 3 4

2,160 m 1,280 m 760 m 760 m 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 >1,000 m >1,000 m 760 m 760 m 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.5 2.0 2.0 1.0 1.0

690 m > 1,000 m 750 m 1,170 m 1.0 1.5 2.0 1.5

920 m 1,220 m 3,480 m 1,730 m 1.0 1.5 3.0 3.0

2.0 3.0 5.0 4.5 8.75 9.24 8.98 10.17 4 2 3 1

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 57

Appendix 5: Estimated Fish Habitat Losses Associated with the Renard Project

Type of Work or Activity Area Nature of the Loss m2

Subwatershed R1

Partial drainage (littoral zone) of lake F 3296 linked to 80 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning the drainage of the pits and to the reduction of the area habitat for species including northern pike, pearl of its watershed due to the mine facilities dace and white sucker. Partial drainage (littoral zone) of lake F 3295 and 730 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning drainage of its littoral zone linked to the drainage of the habitat for northern pike. pits and to the reduction of the area of its watershed due to the mine facilities

Subwatershed R2

Partial drainage (littoral zone) of lake F 3298 linked to 670 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning the drainage of the pits and to the reduction of the area habitat for species including brook trout. of its watershed due to the mine facilities Drainage of the lake F 3298 outlet, which will be 3,880 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning diverted to lake F 3295 to dig pit R-65 habitat for species including brook trout. Drainage of lake F 3303 to dig pit R-65 11,960 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning habitat for white sucker, pearl dace and brook trout. Fish mortality associated with drainage of the lake.

Subwatershed R3

Drainage of lake F 3302 prior to digging of pit R2-R3 25,000 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning habitat for pearl dace. Fish mortality associated with drainage of the lake. Drainage of the lake F 3302 outlet prior to digging of pit 1,100 Destruction of feeding habitat for pearl dace. R2-R3

Subwatershed R5

Lowering of the water level of lake F 2607 and drainage 2,160 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning of its littoral zone, linked to the drainage of the pits and habitat for species including brook trout. to the reduction of the area of its watershed due to the mine facilities Lowering of the water level of lake F 3300 and drainage 200 Destruction of feeding, nursery and spawning of its littoral zone, linked to the drainage of the pits and habitat for northern pike. to the reduction of the area of its watershed due to the mine facilities TOTAL - Habitat Alteration, Disruption or Destruction 45,780 m2

58 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

Appendix 6: Migratory Birds periods are presented for guidance only, and Convention Act, 1994 are intended to help the proponent determine the period when the risk is particularly high. Pursuant to section 6 of the Migratory Birds This is not a “restriction period,” just as there Regulations available here: is no “authorized period.” Environment http://www.ec.gc.ca/nature/default.asp?lang= Canada therefore cannot guarantee the En&n=496E2702-1, no person shall disturb, proponent protection against any recourse or destroy or take a nest, egg or nest shelter of a remedy under the Migratory Birds Convention migratory bird or have in his possession a live Act, 1994, regardless of the scope of a given migratory bird, or a carcass, skin, nest or egg activity, the significance of the potential of a migratory bird except under authority of a impacts on bird populations, or the nature of permit thereof. The proponent must therefore the mitigation measures taken. be vigilant to comply at all times with these Regulations. Environment Canada points out Otherwise, Environment Canada does not that the purpose of identifying the key periods, recommend actively seeking nests.This from May 1 to August 15, is to reduce the risk activity can disturb and harm migratory birds, of destruction of the nests of migratory birds their nests and eggs. More information on during a period when the risk of incidental incidental take is available at take is particularly high. The key breeding www.ec.gc.ca/paom- itmb/default.asp?=Fr&n=FA4AC736-1.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 59

Appendix 7: Mitigation pumping will be required to drain borrow Measures Proposed by the pits. Proponent  Circulation of machinery and other vehicle will be limited to access roads rights-of-way This appendix outlines the mitigation and to work areas that have been previously measures that will be implemented to limit the identified. effects of the project. The information is  Hazardous materials will be managed in organized under the same subheadings as accordance with Regulation respecting those in section 7 on the assessment of hazardous materials (RSQ, c. Q-2, r. 15.2). environmental effects of the project. To avoid Transportation of hazardous materials will repetition some mitigation measures of a be made in accordance with the section may also be applicable to another Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act section. (RSQ, c. C-24.2, s. 622, para. 1-8), and the Regulation respecting biomedical waste (c. Air Quality Q-2, r. 12), para. 1 to 8). Petroleum products will be managed in accordance  Use of dust control agents on mine roads with the Petroleum Products Act (RSQ, will reduce dust raised by vehicles chapter P-29.1) (RSQ, chapter P- 29.1) and transporting ore/processed kimberlite and the Petroleum Products Regulation (RQ c. mine supply vehicles. P-29.1, r.3) for material management and  Use of mats to confine to the worksites dust petroleum products; propagation generated by blasting of  Minimize use of and use alternatives to surfaces; hazardous materials;  Positioning of power generating sets as far  Storage areas for petroleum products will be as possible from the temporary worker’s equipped with a holding tank with a camp to minimize exhaust gas capacity at least 110% of the volume of the concentrations within the accommodation largest tank in order to contain leaks and and services complex area. spills;  For the processed kimberlite confinement  Barrel storage areas will be equipped with area, sprinkling during dry weather in the watertight dikes or other containment locations where the kimberlite is stockpiled facilities, in order to contain the highest of will reduce the probability of emission by the following volumes: 25% of the total wind erosion. capacity of all storage containers or 125% of the largest capacity; Water Quality  Establishment of procedures for spill prevention and response (e.g., containment  The overall design of the mine site has been structures, stormwater treatment in areas of progressively optimized to minimize storage and handling of fuel) and a interference with the waterways and the emergency response plan for spills hydrogeological regime of surface deposits; (procedures and methods of intervention);  Mitigation measures will be implemented  Any spillage will be immediately reported during the construction phase to reduce the to the person responsible for the mine quantity of runoff exiting the construction emergency response plan; site to minimize contaminant transport.  The underground areas designated as  Wherever possible, the exploitation of permanent sites for routine maintenance borrow pits will be limited to the portion activities, lubrication and refuelling will be located above the water table. Therefore, no covered with a concrete slab designed to

60 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

prevent the outflow of petroleum products undertaken over a five-year period, as or equipped with an automatic non-leak recommended in Guideline 019. Such filling system; monitoring will make it possible to validate  A permanent and easily accessible numerical model predictions and prevent a emergency kit for recovering petroleum loss of groundwater use following the mine products and hazardous materials will be closure. present on site. Absorbents will be used to hold waste oil; Hydric regime  Properly sealed and identified containers for receiving the waste contaminated petroleum  Water from the bottom of the lake that is products will be available; rich in suspended solids will be treated  Oil contaminated absorbent materials will using Envirobags before being released into be disposed appropriately. Lake Lagopede;  Only processed kimberlite will be stored in  Bottom sediment of dewatered lakes will be the processed kimberlite confinement areas; excavated in early winter to minimize  If anthropic contamination of the sediment transport. overburden occurs or is suspected, this  The water management plan submitted by material will be characterized and its Golder (2011e) provides a network of management method established in keeping ditches and culverts to collect runoff, as with the most recent version of the well as a water treatment plant to monitor MDDEP’s Soil Protection and water quality prior to release into Lake Contaminated Sites Rehabilitation Policy Lagopede. (Guideline 019).  The waste rock stockpiles impact on the  A percolating water catchment system, configuration of the site’s natural sub- including drainage ditches around the waste watersheds will be limited by the fact that, rock stockpiles, will be built to channel the throughout the mine’s service life, waste waters collected to the appropriate treatment rock stockpiles will be returned into the facilities; ditches.  A groundwater quality monitoring program  To minimize the mine’s impact on the site’s will be implemented as required by hydrological regime during the operation Guideline 019; phase, the water management plan provides  Additional observation wells will be for the water collected in open pit R-65’s developed in areas where the effect of water sedimentation basin to be pumped to the ore table drawdown may be greater; processing plant for reuse. By promoting  Water levels will be monitored in the recirculation of the site’s water in a closed observation wells during construction to loop, water intake and effluent discharge in validate modelling results; Lake Lagopede are minimized.  Certain stream flows will be monitored to check for potential flow variations Surface water following dewatering activities;  A contingency plan will be developed once  The footprint of the project was reduced to a new data are acquired. minimum in order to reduce clearing;  If contaminants are observed in  Do not establish a sandpit within 75 m of a groundwater after mining operations lake or perennial stream or fish habitat, closure, post-rehabilitation monitoring of unless conditions comply with the groundwater quality downstream of the Regulation respecting pits and quarries Processed Kimberlite Confinement (PKC) (Q -2, r. 7); and/or overburden stockpile will have to be  Work area limits will be clearly identified

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 61

on site in order to strictly limit work to stumps, except where a road will be required areas; developed (including roadway, shoulders  Control erosion and sediment transport and road embankment) and where toward streams and waterbodies by backfilling is required for the road. selecting strategies considering  Control erosion at source and reduce characteristics of the site and environmental sediment transport to lakes or streams; conditions (e.g. silt fences, rockfill,  Runoff will be deviated to a vegetated area geotextiles, straw bales, sedimentation located at a distance of at least 20 m from a ponds); lake or a stream measured from the natural  No debris will be disposed of into the high water mark; aquatic environment and any debris  Slopes of an exploited surface of a sand pit accidentally dumped will be removed will be of 30 degrees at most (from promptly; horizontal), to prevent erosion and land  Services areas and excavation and fill slumping; materials stockpiles will be cleared, and the  The water released into the environment by topsoil layer will be set aside for the quarry or sand pit operation, or by crushing rehabilitation phase; or screening processes will not include a  Clearing, grading, and levelling will be contaminant concentration greater than 15 executed, as far as possible, immediately mg/l of oil, grease, or mineral originating before the beginning of infrastructure tar , and greater than 25 mg / litre of total installation; suspended solids.  Slopes will be stabilized as quickly as  The pH of water released into the possible to prevent erosion; environment by quarry or sand pit  No levelling or excavation will be carried operation, or by crushing or screening out near streams during flood periods or processes should be between 5.5 and 9.5, during heavy rain; unless demonstrated that the pH value of the  Preventive stabilization work will be carried natural environment is outside of this range, out if work must be suspended during the as it is the case for the Renard Project area. winter;  Water from lake and stream dewatering will  Maintain and retain vegetation cover within be treated by mobile treatment units in order a buffer strip of 30 metres from the natural to remove total suspended solids prior to high water mark; release into Lake Lagopede.  All drainage ditches that receive runoff  During work, respect as much as possible from the construction site will be stabilized the terrain natural drainage and carry out before construction activities begin and will appropriate measures to allow normal water be maintained until completion of the work; flow;  Install silt fences wherever soil will be  Construct a sedimentation basin for disturbed and add additional barriers where drainage ditches at least 20 m from the there is a risk of fine sediment transport; receiving stream and drain the basin when  Protect material storage areas (cement, the height of water above the sediment is sand, etc.) with plastic tarp for small areas less than 30 cm on at least 50% of the area and silt fences for larger areas; of the basin;  Dispose of backfilling soil in order to  Machinery streambed fording will be prevent runoff transport of fine particles prohibited unless the necessary toward streams or lakes; infrastructure has been installed and  Within 60 m of a lake or a perennial stream, required authorizations obtained from the and within 30 meters of an intermittent departments concerned. To cross a stream stream, preserve the vegetation cover and or a fish habitat, a bypass will be installed

62 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

and removed at the end of the work;  Do not clean or wash machinery in a lake,  After installation of a culvert, other stream or fish habitat or less than 60 m from structures required for the work will be them, or park machinery or travel in it on removed out of the water; the contractor the plant cover less than 30 m from streams, will ensure streambed inflow and outflow measured from the high water mark; stabilization. The stream bed must then be  If possible, limit heavy machinery traffic to restored to its natural profile and with firm soil in order to avoid rut formation. similar substrate, and the banks stabilized Give precedence to machinery with tires or and, revegetated when necessary; wide tracks;  Place shallow channels or waterbars across  At worksite exits, make sure to install secondary roads to limit erosion; gravel zones to reduce sediment input on  When necessary, use the lower-third method roads. for ditch maintenance.  Regularly optimize the blasting pattern and  Waste material will be managed in explosives volume to minimize explosives accordance with current regulations residues; (Regulation respecting the application of the  Use best practices to handle explosives and Environment Quality Act(Q-2, r.3), fill blasting holes; Regulation respecting the landfilling and  Thoroughly clean accidental explosives incineration of residual materials (Q -2, spills. r.19), Regulation respecting the  The mine tailings accumulation area will be environmental and social impact assessment located at least 60 m from the high water and review procedure applicable to the mark of any stream or body of water; territory of James Bay and Northern Québec  Only the materials intended for the waste (Q-2, r.25), Regulation respecting the rock and overburden stockpiles and the quality of the atmosphere (c. Q-2, r. 38), processed kimberlite confinement area will and Regulation respecting used tire storage be disposed of in these sites; (Q-2, r.20)).  At least once a season, visits will be  Containment and runoff treatment facilities conducted to monitor confinement will be installed within storage and fuel structures’ and related structures’ physical handling areas; stability. A log reporting on these visits will  Storage areas for new and used petroleum be kept updated and will be accessible at all products will be provided with a times; containment platform of sufficient capacity  In addition to monitoring water quality to contain leaks and accidental spills; downstream of the work, a visual lake water  The underground areas designated as quality monitoring program will be carried permanent sites for routine maintenance out during the work so as to be able to react activities, lubrication, and refuelling will be quickly in case of unexpected sediment covered with a concrete slab designed to inputs; prevent outflow of petroleum products;  Minimize runoff areas representing  All mobile production equipment will be potential sources of contaminants (e.g. by equipped with a system for express filling limiting impermeable surfaces); with overflow protection;  Reduce peak flows (e.g. channel waters to  Preserve a strip of land on the site perimeter retention basins during peak flows) to avoid to accumulate stripped organic matter; treatment station overflows;  Remove and stockpile organic matter more  Wastewater treatment facilities and septic than 20 m from a lake, stream or fish habitat facilities will be operated in keeping with in order to reuse it. current regulations.

CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project 63

 Gasoline and oil separators in the bodies and maintain soil integrity by mechanical workshops and grease protecting it from the passage of machinery; separators in the kitchen will be maintained  Runoff will be directed to temporary systematically and regularly. sedimentation basins until the construction  To limit propylene glycol dispersion, all de- of the sedimentation pond that will be icing activities will be grouped together in a located at pit R-65; single location and small quantities estimate  Always control erosion at the source and at about 1,000 litres per year will be used; slow runoff velocity in order to reduce  To ensure that neighbouring lakes and erosive force; streams are not contaminated or that there is  Promote soil infiltration of runoff from an impact on the dissolved oxygen work areas; concentration associated with the use of  Limit clearing to a strict minimum in the propylene glycol, analysis of this compound field, i.e. only to the exact location of the and of the dissolved oxygen and DBO5 river crossing; levels in surface waters downstream of the  Install culverts as recommended by the Best airstrip will be included in the surface water Practice Guide for the design and quality monitoring program. installation of culverts under 25 m (DFO, 2010). Fish Habitat  Ensure the free flow of water at all times to maintain the functions of fish habitat  Reduce traffic speed limits to minimize soil downstream from the construction zone. erosion and dust emission toward Take the necessary measures to prevent and hydrological network; limit impacts (e.g. flooding, dewatering,  Perform work during low flow periods and erosion, sediment transport, etc.) upstream in respect to the timing windows for fish. A and downstream from the work area; timing window will be applied for work to  Design the temporary diversion of streams be performed in water. Thus, stream (if required) to withstand floods that may diversion and small lake dewatering as well occur during the construction period; as culvert installation will be done outside stabilize adequately to prevent erosion and the spawning period of brook trout, i.e. sediment transport downstream and to between September 1 and November 1. maintain the free passage of fish. Regarding the installation of the outfalls in  Maintenance and cleaning of machinery, its Lake Lagopede, work will be done between refuelling, and mechanical checkups will be May 30 and August 31 to protect spawning conducted in stable and safe locations that of northern pike and white sucker during are more than 60 m away from streams, springtime, as well as lake trout and lakes or other water bodies ; whitefish during fall.  Storage areas for hazardous materials and  Permanently dispose of clearing materials petroleum products will be equipped with a or debris (trees, stumps, shrubs, branches, containment platform of sufficient capacity brush, dead wood and other plant debris) at to contain leaks and spills; a distance of at least 60 m away from the  Lower the lake level slowly, so that the fish bank of a lake or a stream or any flood are concentrated in the deepest poolsof the plain, marsh, swamp, or bog; lake;  If absolutely necessary to clear within 20  Capture all the fish with the help of seine or meters of a stream, cut trees manually and a trap net; dispose of woody debris outside of the  Relocate the fish in a lake nearby with natural high water mark. This will prevent similar fish populations; the tree from falling in streams and water  If a bypass is necessary, minimize the

64 CEAA—Comprehensive Study Report: Renard Diamond Mine Project

length of the diverted section; clearing, excavation, backfilling and  Redevelop the streams by reproducing the grading of work areas in order to respect the original features (natural shorelines with natural topography and prevent erosion; native plant species, size, slope, and  Prohibition to dispose of any debris or any identical width); wood waste in floodplains and wetlands  Plan the reprofiling of the bank slope (if such as swamps and bogs, even outside the required) to ensure stability; areas directly affected by the work;  Provide a section of preferential flow  Limit and control the risks of forest fires (“thalweg”) in the substrate of the bed of the during construction; stream and ensure the free passage of fish;  The contractor must comply with guidelines  The diversion structures will not obstruct governing the use of explosives in or near fish passage and will not shrink the width, Canadian fisheries waters; measured from the high water mark, of the  It is prohibited to use ammonium nitrate or habitat by more than a third; fuel oil in or near fisheries waters due to the  Choose the proper stream bed substrate production of toxic by-products (ammonium consisting of a natural granular coating to hydroxide). ensure optimal flow;  For the closure phase, gradual flooding of  Limit rockfill on stream banks to the height pits to avoid resuspension of pariculate of the natural high water line, and create a matter; vegetation buffer from the edge of the  For the closure phase, create hydraulic rockfill using recognized bioengineering connection with the natural environment to techniques, promoting undercut strata of ensure free passage of fish. herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees.  Grating openings can be round, square, Birds and Habitat rectangular, or any combination thereof, but should not have any protrusions that could  Preferably, start pumping water after the injure fish; The materials used will be breeding season (mid August) to allow resistant to corrosion and UV rays, reproduction for another year; including brass, bronze, aluminum, monel,  Install nesting boxes for the common galvanized or stainless steel, and plastics; goldeneye around Lake Lagopede and other Guide openings and joints will be smaller nearby lakes to maintain the number of than the criteria for structures needed to waterfowl breeding pairs in the mine area. prevent fish passage; Gratings will be  Make users aware of the need to avoid positioned at least 300 mm from the lake circulation of small crafts in sheltered bays, bottom to prevent entrainment of sediment which are potential areas for common loon and benthic organisms; A support structure nesting and brood rearing in the spring and will be fitted onto grating panels to prevent summer. them from sagging or collapsing.  Avoid disturbance and stripping of the  Clauses in the contracts of workers and ground in areas where only trees must be contractors will prohibit fishing on the site. cut in order to maintain attractiveness of  Reduce the footprint of facilities and these zones as hunting areas for red-tailed infrastructure as part of the design phase to hawks and other species of this group. minimize the loss of terrestrial habitat and  Clearing of sites will be done mostly in wetlands; autumn and winter, or outside of the peak of  Limit the number of affected sub- the forest bird breeding season, which watersheds to prevent impacts on the extends from May 1 to August 15 for the hydrological regime of wetlands; sector, as recommended by the Canadian  Limit to a strict minimum the stripping, Wildlife Service (CWS);

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 Dead, fallen trees and low shrubs will be  Install appropriate fences to exclude large preserved wherever possible in areas where mammals from the camp, the hazardous soil will not be disrupted, particularly in the materials storage areas and the trench airstrip area. landfill;  Plant species preferred by the Canada goose  Make land users aware of the effects of will be prioritized for sowing at the closure illegal harvesting, poaching, accidental phase. slaughtering, and overall disturbance of  At least one conductive wetland site should woodland caribou; be developed to replace at least one of those  If applicable, document the movements of lost in the construction phase. Wetland woodland caribou on the property using development should be included in the opportunistic observations, aerial surveys or drainage restoration plan for the site. GPS collars placed on the woodland Wetlands could be integrated to stream caribou. banks restored (for instance, F3298V) in  As far as possible, avoid tourism-related areas where slopes are low. low-altitude flights in order to limit the impact of this disturbance on wildlife. Mammals and Habitats  Shut down and rehabilitate sites used temporarily during the construction phase.  When possible, keep a protective cover by  Install an electric fence to keep bears away making a partial cut to reduce the impact of from the trench landfill site; land clearing and habitat fragmentation.  Regularly backfill buried waste;  Circulate with machinery only in areas to be  Place waste in sites or containers so as not cleared. Circulation of machinery is to attract wildlife. prohibited along banks and riparian areas  During progressive rehabilitation of where clearing, if required, should be done construction sites, apply appropriate manually. sylvicultural practices (maintain habitat’s  Road design and management to limit the coniferous characteristics) to promote the risk and frequency of traffic accidents (e.g. return of Woodland Caribou habitat. cutting vegetation at large curves in order to allow drivers of vehicles to see the Use of the Territory and Natural animals); Resources  Ensure that beavers affected by construction activities are trapped by Crees or captured  Recognize and respect the role of M11 alive during the summer, and then relocated trapline users in the traditional and in suitable habitats. contemporary management of natural  The abrasives used for winter road resources in the environment; maintenance will be limited to sand and  Keep land users informed of the anticipated gravel unless there are exceptional progress of construction and its location to circumstances. ensure user safety during more dangerous  Make workers aware that it is important not operations (e.g. blasting) and agree with to feed the animals and leave food out in users about any accommodation deemed order to prevent attraction of fur-bearing necessary; animals near the work areas. Awareness  Reduction of noisy activities (e.g. travel by programs can be done through posters and helicopter or ATV) on certain portions of information sessions; the territory during waterfowl and moose  Develop a plan to protect wildlife to reduce hunting periods; poaching opportunities.  Ensure that the development of the mine

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does not interfere with any navigation or  Fishing, hunting, and trapping will be snowmobile trails; prohibited on the site by clauses in the  Establish appropriate signboards at contracts for workers and contractors; locations where snowmobile trails and all-  A safety zone will be established around the terrain vehicles paths intersect with the project site where the practice of hunting, mine roads and access roads; fishing, and trapping will be suspended;  For workers, develop an awareness program  Compensate disturbance caused to the in relation to Cree culture and land use on tallymen, whose base camp is located east M11 trapline; of the airstrip. Discussions between the two parties are underway to relocate the camp in an equally suitable area of the trapline.

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Appendix 8: Additional Drainage of Fish Habitat for the Mitigation Measures relating Purpose of Mining the Open Pits to Fish and Fish Habitat, Proposed by Fisheries and Drainage of lakes F 3302 and F 3303 Oceans Canada  Before the beginning of the lake fisheries, General Measures take measures to minimize fish mortality, for example by installing fish barriers at the  Prohibit all quarries, sand pits and waste or outlets of Lakes F 3302 and F 3303 in order disposal sites within 20 metres of the to prevent access of fish to the future ordinary high water mark of all rivers and dewatered sections. streams. Ensure that their presence does not  Capture the fish present in the outlet of F have adverse effects on fish habitat 3302V and transfer the living individuals to (suspended sediment loading, changes in a water body with similar fish communities. drainage, etc.).  During draining of the lakes, take all necessary measures to prevent suspended Sensitive Periods sediment from being released into the receiving aquatic environment (e.g. equip  Perform the work during the low-water the pumps with a float system and keep the period and observing the fish timing pumps away from friable banks, build windows. Work such as diverting rivers sedimentation ponds for the pumped water and streams, draining lakes and installing with sufficient capacity and resistant to culverts will be carried out outside the high-water events, etc.). brook trout spawning period, from September 1 to November 1. The work to Diversion of stream F 3298V install outfalls in Lac Lagopède will have to be carried out between May 30 and  Install a fish barrier upstream of the stream August 31 to protect the spawning of in order to prevent fish from lake F 3298 northern pike and white sucker in the spring from entering the future dewatered section. as well as the spawning of lake trout and  Install a fish barrier downstream of the lake whitefish in the fall. future dewatered section of the outlet to  Submit in advance justification for each prevent fish from Lac Lagopède from case where application of the mitigation migrating there. measures associated with the above-  Take all necessary measures (e.g. mentioned sensitive periods would be hydroseeding, stabilization of bank slopes impossible or in the opinion of the and of the bed of the new stream, etc.) in proponent not warranted. Where applicable, order to prevent suspended sediment this justification must be accompanied by an loading during filling of the new channel. action plan outlining the mitigation  Select the proper substrate for the stream measures adapted to the time of the year bed in order to ensure optimal flow above that would be implemented in order to meet the substrate by minimizing interstitial flow, the fish habitat protection objectives (free i.e., minimize water loss through the passage of fish and stability of temporary substrate. structures).  Ensure free passage of fish by avoiding

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excessive slopes and impassable barriers.  Construct ditches along the temporary roads However, configure the future diversion and work areas in order to direct runoff to channel of stream F 3298V to prevent the sediment capture structures. migration of northern pike from lake F 3295  Install a sufficient number of berms, to lake F 3298 in order to protect the brook sediment barriers, sediment retention ponds trout population. or sediment traps in the work areas to prevent the transport of sediments into the Changes to Water Inflow into Fish water. However, outside the work area, Habitats and Associated Effects none of these structures must be installed in fish habitat. These structures must be Declines in lake water levels and flows functional at all times.  Channel drainage ditches toward areas of  Take all appropriate measures to minimize stable vegetation in order to prevent the anticipated changes in water depths and sediments from being transported into the flows in the lakes and their outlets where aquatic environment. If the drainage ditches hydraulic changes are anticipated following cannot be diverted or if the vegetation is too application of the water management plan sparse, potential sediment loading from for the mine site. structures must be controlled by an  Take all necessary measures to maintain the appropriate and effective system in order to free passage of fish between Lac Lagopède prevent leaching. and the tributary of lake F 3301 (free  Avoid leaving reconfigured and denuded passage of northern pike and brook trout to areas without erosion control measures, lake F 3300; free passage of brook trout to particularly on slopes. If a period of time is stream F 3301M) following application of required for permanent stabilization, erosion the water management plan for the mine control measures must remain in place in site. order to prevent erosion and capture any eroded material. Fine Sediment Loading and  Do not carry out any earth moving or Deposition in Fish Habitat excavation work near rivers or streams at high water or during heavy rains. Discharge of effluents in Lac Lagopède  Plan adequate sediment control measures during temporary closures of the work site  Take all appropriate measures and use all (evenings, weekends, holidays) based on appropriate technologies to ensure the long- weather forecasts. term protection of fish habitat in Lac Lagopède and in particular minimize the Temporary Works fine sediment deposition on the lake trout spawning ground.  Ensure, at all times, the free circulation of water and a sufficient volume of water to Control of erosion and sediment maintain fish habitat functions (feeding, re-suspension nursery, spawning and migration) downstream of the work area. Take the  Take all necessary precautions to prevent necessary measures to prevent impacts (e.g. any transport of fine sediment into the flooding, drainage, suspended matter, aquatic environment beyond the immediate erosion, etc.) upstream and downstream of work area. the work area.

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 Encourage the use of cofferdam types that Blasting minimize encroachment on fish habitat.  If the use of stone cofferdams is justified,  Blasting operations must comply with the build them with clean granular material, and Guidelines for the Use of Explosives In or preferably install a membrane to ensure that Near Canadian Fisheries Waters (Can. the structure is watertight. Tech. Rep. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 2107, Wright  Temporary works must be protected from and Hopky, 1998). If unable to comply with erosion using stabilizing material, for these guidelines, the proponent will have to example a suitable geotextile membrane or apply for authorization under section 32 of riprap. The works must also be designed to the Fisheries Act. withstand any high-water events that may occur during the work period.

Culvert Construction

 DFO recommends using the criteria and measures set out in the document entitled “Lignes directrices pour la conception de traversées de cours d’eau au Québec” (see Chapter 7 for culverts under 25 m) for the design of crossings in rivers and streams where the free passage of fish must be ensured.

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Appendix 9: Mistissini Traplines

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Appendix 10: Focus of the Follow-up Program

Valued Ecosystem Objectives and Approach Timetable and/or Frequency Components

Air Quality  Submit new modelling of atmospheric emissions. Before the start of mine  In its air quality and atmospheric emissions monitoring operational activities program, the proponent will have to: o Verify the potential deposition of dust from non-point Entire life of the mine and during sources (e.g. from the processed kimberlite site closure and rehabilitation containment area) in the surrounding lakes, particularly Lac Lagopède and lake F 3298, in order to validate the results of the atmospheric dispersion model (AERMOD); o Implement corrective measures depending on the results of the follow-up. Surface Water Quality  Ensure that the mine and domestic effluent treatment Entire life of the mine and during systems perform effectively site closure and rehabilitation  Prevent trophic level changes in Lac Lagopède as a result of excessive nutrient loading (minimize phosphorus loading)  Avoid sediment loading which could affect the quality of the environment  Implement a program to monitor the quality of treated effluents and surface water based on various references including provincial requirements (Guidelines 019, EDO), the MMER (Metal Mining Effluent Regulations) and the protocol on metal mining environmental effects monitoring (Environment Canada, 2011)  Implement corrective measures depending on the results of the follow-up Fish and Fish Habitat  Assess the maintenance of conditions for free passage Will be specified in the conditions (Free Passage) of fish upstream between Lac Lagopède and the of the permit issued by Fisheries tributary of lake F 3301 and Oceans  Implement corrective measures depending on the results of the follow-up Fish and Fish Habitat  Assess the maintenance of conditions conducive to the Will be specified in the conditions (Habitat Conditions species present in lake F 3298 of the permit issued by Fisheries under Lowered Lake  Implement corrective measures depending on the and Oceans Water Levels) results of the follow-up Fish and Fish Habitat  Assess the maintenance of hydraulic conditions suitable Will be specified in the conditions (Changes to Hydraulic for brook trout spawning and egg incubation on the of the permit issued by Fisheries Conditions) natural spawning ground in the tributary of lake F 3301 and Oceans and on the spawning grounds developed at the lake outlet (see follow-up of the compensation program)  Implement corrective measures depending on the results of the follow-up Fish and Fish Habitat  Provide a baseline if required Will be specified in the conditions (Compensation Works)  Meet the stated compensation objectives of the permit issued by Fisheries  Confirm the integrity and effectiveness of the and Oceans Canada compensation works  Implement corrective measures depending on the results of the follow-up Birds and Bird Habitat  Document, through environmental monitoring reports, During the pre-construction and the presence of nests of migratory birds and species at construction periods risk, particularly the olive-sided flycatcher, and the actions taken to protect these species in accordance with the measures specified in section 7.6.2

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