REPORT
3 Application Summary: Line 2 Construction, Operations and Emergency Response
3.1 Overview
This section describes the Proposed and Alternate Routes that were assessed, and includes a summary of the planning, construction and emergency response processes that Trans Mountain proposes in their application to the NEB (referred to hereafter as the Application). Because of the broad spatial scope of Trans Mountain’s Application, SBRP is rarely mentioned in any of the documents. This section considers the regulatory requirements that Trans Mountain must meet during construction and operations, and indicates how these are likely to guide Trans Mountain’s construction and operations activities in and around SBRP.
3.2 Proposed and Alternate Routes
The Proposed Route (orange) and Alternate Routes (Option A- yellow; Option B-pink) are identified in Figure 1-1. Trans Mountain’s Proposed Route enters the southeast portion of the park at the intersection of Trigg Road and 104th Avenue, and extends west adjacent to 104th Avenue to the CN rail tracks. This route would follow the east side of the tracks past Centre Creek for approximately 900 m before crossing beneath the railway tracks and the SFPR.
Both Alternate Routes avoid SBRP entirely. The Option A route is located between the CN Rail Corridor and the Golden Ears Connector to the south of the park; it crosses 104th Avenue and follows the corridor between SFPR and the CN tracks. The Option B route extends along the SFPR on the southwest side of the road.
3.3 Pipeline Design and Construction
3.3.1 Guiding Legislation
Trans Mountain’s proposed expansion project falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the NEB under the National Energy Board Act, the regulatory requirements of the NEB Onshore Pipeline Regulations (OPR), and the regulatory requirements of the following:
Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency; Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO); Transport Canada; and Affected municipal, provincial, rail and utility authorities.
The project must be designed, constructed, operated, maintained, deactivated and abandoned in accordance with the NEB OPR. The OPR incorporate the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standard Z662-11, Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems (CSA Z662). Leak detection systems and procedures must comply
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with CSA Z662, Annex E, Recommended Practice. Trans Mountain’s Quality Management Plan (QMP) is intended to guide components such as engineering, materials, construction and quality management.
In some cases, design and construction could occur outside of NEB OPR and CSA Z662 specifications. Examples of where this could be necessary include blasting adjacent to existing pipelines, roads, rails and utilities; slope stability; seismic activity potential; watercourse scour and erosion; and high-voltage current interference. In these cases, professional engineers will guide the design and implementation.
3.3.2 Proposed Pipeline Buffer
Trans Mountain’s Application states the company’s intent to have routing criteria and corridor selection strategies “avoid areas that have significant environmental values or restrictions” and “be consistent with established land use planning”. Approximately 73% of the Proposed Route (Line 2) is planned to be located within or adjacent to the existing 18 m easement that is already in place for the existing pipeline (Line 1). For the remainder of Line 2, the intent is that the pipeline will be placed adjacent to existing easements, rights-of-way (ROWs) and other linear features. This is the case at SBRP, where drawings show the alignment immediately adjacent to the CN rail tracks.
Trans Mountain has applied for a corridor approximately 150 m wide in order to accommodate different construction conditions; however, they anticipate actually using a 45 m wide ROW during construction. Of this total, a buffer of 18 m is planned to be under easement for the long term to accommodate the pipeline ROW, and the remaining portion will be Temporary Workspace. An Extra Temporary Workspace will be required at crossings for highways, roads, railways, watercourses, utilities, pipelines and other features.
3.3.3 Proposed Watercourse Crossing Criteria
Trans Mountain has developed a fish and fish habitat Risk Management Framework to guide the choice of crossing method at watercourses. This framework is a modification of DFO’s approach and the methods in the Pipeline Associated Watercourse Crossing Guidelines (3rd Edition) developed by the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers. The Risk Management Framework assesses the features of each watercourse to provide direction on the crossing methods to be used. Crossing methods identified and considered include open-cut, isolated crossing methods, and trenchless methods. Horizontal directional drilling is being assessed at 21 watercourses (or 25% of the identified watercourses).
Given the above and the limited specific information on the design of the Proposed Route through SBRP, it is reasonable to conclude that Trans Mountain intends to use the 45 m construction ROW during development. The specific methods planned for crossing Centre Creek and other watercourses are not yet known.
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3.3.4 Construction Planning
Depending on the timing of receipt of the project Certification of Public Conveyance and Necessity, the Application identifies construction beginning in October 2015 and extending through to the end of 2017, with ROW restoration being completed by September 2018.
Trans Mountain has stated that construction activities will be guided by a series of plans that include the following:
Traffic Management Plan (TMP): This will be developed during the engineering and design phase to mitigate the impacts on traffic and access. The TMP is intended to comply with B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) guidelines and requires contractors to develop and implement Traffic Control Plans. Traffic Control Plans (TCPs): These plans are intended to govern the construction, use and reclamation of access roads, and they provide the basis for creating a Public Information Plan (PIP) and for developing an Incident Response Plan (IRP). TCPs are consistent with the requirements of MOTI and of affected municipalities, and they apply to primary and secondary highway crossing locations. These plans require the Prime Contractors, who are responsible for their implementation, to meet with municipalities to ensure that traffic control at municipal road crossings will be consistent with municipal requirements and reflect industry-wide safe practices. Construction Control Quality Management Plan: The Prime Contractor will develop and implement this plan, which governs the quality assurance and quality control that will be maintained by the Prime Contractor during construction. Pipeline Construction Execution Plan: This plan will be developed during the engineering and design phase, and addresses such issues as limits to ROW access, transport and stockpiling logistics, restricted construction activity windows, and commitments and issues to be managed. Timber Salvage Plan (TSP): All clearing within the ROW will be approximately 25-30 m wide. The TSP will be developed during the engineering and design phase, and will guide clearing activities. Fires Response Contingency Plan: This plan will be developed during the engineering and design phase, and will guide fire response initiatives.
3.3.5 Construction
According to Volume 4B of the Application, Trans Mountain intends to make optimal use of existing roads and trails during construction. However, construction of temporary and permanent access roads will be required to access the ROW, staging areas, and stockpiles. Required permits and agreements need to be sought from MOTI and other relevant agencies, and fees must be paid to the owners of the roads. After construction is complete, some access roads will be maintained for up to 5 years to access the ROW, and other roads will be maintained for long-term pipeline maintenance.
Vehicle and equipment crossings are required along the ROW during construction and operations. Each crossing must adhere to DFO operational requirements and provincial guidelines. On the south coast, crossing options considered will include culverts (open and closed), bridges (temporary and permanent)
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and fords. Appropriate federal and provincial approvals and authorizations will be sought prior to construction.
The Application states that all ROW development will be done in accordance with Trans Mountain’s Pipeline Construction Specification and in accordance with the Environmental Protection Plan. Grading, soil movement and handling will be completed to support access construction, pipe stringing, field bending, welding, lowering-in, and movement of pipe, equipment and personnel along the pipeline ROW. Soil will be stockpiled along the edge of the ROW and replaced following construction. Any blasting for rock grade and ditch rock excavation will be done in accordance with Trans Mountain’s Blasting Specification.
3.3.6 Quality Inspection
Volume 4B of the Application identifies how the inspection team must inspect all phases of pipeline construction for compliance with procedures, specifications, drawings and legislative and permit commitments. Quality audits will assess whether construction activities are consistent with the Pipeline Construction Specification and the Pipeline Quality Management Program. The inspection will also include checking against environmental requirements and commitments.
A range of other assessments must also be conducted, including non-destructive testing of every weld joint using a variety of methods. Hydrostatic pressure testing must be completed in accordance with CSA Z662 requirements, NEB OPR, and Kinder Morgan Canada’s Standard MP 4121 Mainline Hydrostatic Test Standard.
Once pipeline sections are in place, in-line caliper testing of each segment must be done according to Trans Mountain’s Post-Construction Caliper ILI Specification. Any anomalies and their locations will be recorded, and any pipeline sections with defects exceeding CSA Z662 must be replaced.
3.3.7 Right-of-Way Clean-up and Restoration
After each pipeline segment or spread is installed, equipment will be removed and the ground surface will be re-contoured, de-compacted and prepared for revegetation in compliance with Trans Mountain’s Restoration Plan, permit conditions, legislation and agreements.
3.3.8 Pipeline Markings
Signage must be developed and installed consistent with the commitments in CSA Z662. This includes crossing markers (i.e. highway, road and railway) and signage for crossings of environmental features (i.e. navigable and major water features and wetlands).
3.4 Pipeline Operations and Maintenance
The NEB OPR outlines the management system requirements that a company must follow to protect people, property and the environment. The management system must address safety, pipeline integrity,
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security, emergency management and environmental protection, and must apply to all facets of the project life cycle. Trans Mountain has stated that its proposed expansion will adhere to Kinder Morgan Canada’s Integrated and Safety Loss Management System (ISLMS), which was developed in response to the NEB OPR amendments for design, construction, operation and abandonment of the proposed pipeline.
3.4.1 System Operations
As applies currently for Line 1, Line 2 will be managed from Kinder Morgan Canada’s Primary Control Centre (PCC) in Sherwood Park, Alberta. The expanded system will be monitored continuously by Control Centre Operators (CCOs) using a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system that collects information on fluid parameters, valves, pump units and other devices throughout the entire system, and that is the primary tool used to assess continuous leak detection.
3.4.2 Inspection and Maintenance
Section 5.0 of Volume 4C states that Kinder Morgan Canada will update their Line 1 operating and maintenance procedures for Line 2. Routine inspection and maintenance activities will be part of their operations and maintenance programs. Aerial and ground surveillance will monitor the state of the ROW. Maintenance of the ROW will be carried out on an as-needed basis to support both integrity response and emergency management needs.
Routine maintenance activities, such as clearing and brushing, removing encroachments and managing natural hazards, will occur on the ROW. Trans Mountain also completes other pipeline tests, including monitoring the cathodic protection system and completing pipeline integrity and valve surveys, maintenance and repairs.
3.4.3 System Operations, Control and Leak Detection
All pump stations and terminals will have emergency shutdown systems that can be triggered automatically in abnormal operating conditions. This automatic shutdown is done remotely via the Primary Control Centre, or by local field operations staff.
3.5 Accidents and Malfunctions
3.5.1 Health Safety, Security and Emergency Management
A detailed Health and Safety Management Plan (HSMP) is not yet in place for the project. According to Section 9.0 of Volume 4C, the HSMP will be developed prior to construction and will conform to NEB OPR, federal labour regulations, and health and safety regulations.
The HSMP will also address the process for selecting and managing the Prime Contractor assigned to each mainline pipeline spread. The Prime Contractor is ultimately responsible for implementing the procedures specified in Trans Mountain’s HSMP.
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3.5.2 Emergency Preparedness and Response
When Trans Mountain’s emergency preparedness and response measures are in place, they must comply with applicable federal, provincial and municipal legislation. An Emergency Response Plan (ERP) must be developed and implemented, as required under Section 47 of the NEB ORP. This document is separate from Trans Mountains Operations ERP and establishes guidelines for the site-specific ERPs developed by the Prime Contractors. The site-specific ERPs must address emergency situations, environmental damage (e.g. fires, floods and rock slides), and issues such as trespass and sabotage. The ERP is also required to identify emergency response roles and responsibilities, and the detailed procedures to be followed (including notifications) in different types of emergencies.
3.5.3 Emergency Management Plan
Kinder Morgan Canada has an Emergency Management Plan (EMP) that provides direction on existing Trans Mountain operations. The EMP is guided by legislative compliance and is monitored and audited by the NEB. The EMP was developed based on the following:
CAN/CSA-Z731-03 – Emergency Preparedness and Response (CSA 2003); B.C. Emergency Response Management System Standards (BCERMS) 1001 and 1002 (BCERMS 2000); B.C. Guidelines for Industrial Management Plans (MOE 1992); and Emergency Response and Response Requirements for the Upstream Petroleum Industry (formerly Guide 71) (Alberta Energy and Utilities Board 2003).
The complete details of the EMP are not known because, to date, Kinder Morgan Canada has successfully argued that the details of the EMP should not be made public.
3.5.4 Incident Command System
Section 10 of Volume 4C describes how Kinder Morgan Canada’s Incident Command System (ICS) guides emergency management. The ICS integrates facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures and communications within a common organizational structure. The framework outlines emergency roles and responsibilities with respect to emergency response, and involves all levels of government acting in a coordinated manner.
Within the ICS, Kinder Morgan Canada’s ERP has a three-tiered response structure that factors in the severity of the event. The following definitions apply:
A Level 1 event is of the size and scope that can be managed using company resources only. Examples could include oil spills confined to company property. In this case, the District Supervisor assumes the Incident Command Position. A Level 2 event requires company resources and local contractors (including emergency services) to address the event. Examples could include an oil spill beyond company property (but not into a
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waterway), a threat to human safety, or property damage. In this case, the Regional Director (or designate) assumes the Incident Command Position. A Level 3 event occurs when the company requires outside assistance from industry, municipal or provincial emergency response personnel to address the event. Examples could include an uncontrolled leak, a spill into a watercourse, and a hazardous material spill. In this case, the Regional Director will assume the Incident Command Position.
3.5.5 Systems Integrity Management
The Integrity Management Plan (IMP) and Facilities Integrity Management Plan (FIMP) are key components of Trans Mountain’s risk identification and assessment programs, and address the requirements outlined in CSA Z662-11 Annex N. These plans confirm the reliability of all system components, including the pipeline, pump stations, terminals, mainline block valves, and other facilities.
According to Section 8.0 of Volume 4C, the focus of the IMP and FIMP is to identify, assess and manage the hazards associated with release of product from the system. The process involves conducting a baseline risk assessment during system design to identify major pipeline threats that could cause release. If Line 2 proceeds, risk assessments, quality assurance and quality control programs will be completed at least annually.
A series of Inline Inspection (ILI) tools (“smart pigs”) runs through the pipeline system while it is operating and collects and stores data on internal and external metal loss, dents, or pipe ovality and cracks. At post- construction stage, a caliper tool is run through the pipeline to provide baseline pipe geometry and identify construction damage to the pipeline. Within the first year, a baseline pipeline geometry and metal loss assessment must be completed. Within the first 5 years, a high-resolution tool is run through Line 2 segments to test pipeline integrity.
In addition to the ILI programs, Trans Mountain must complete a series of programs to monitor cathodic protection, slope stability, stream crossing and general depth of cover along the pipeline.
3.5.6 Leak Prevention, Detection and Response
Trans Mountain has programs designed to detect and manage leaks, including the IMP, FIMP, cathodic protection systems, damage prevention programs, public awareness programs, and maintenance programs. All these have guided operation of Line 1 to date and must be updated for Line 2 operations.
The Computation Pipeline Management (CPM) system tracks petroleum flow. Flow meters and pressure transmitters are installed at all receipt and delivery points and at intermediate pumping stations along the route, and they track pressure in the system, as per the CSA Z662, Annex E Recommended Practice for Liquid Hydrocarbon Pipeline System Leak Detection. The SCADA system records real-time pressure, temperature, flow and other fluid parameters on the pipeline and passes these data to the CPM. If the CPM determines that the flow or pressure is outside the expected limits, the leak detection system will trigger an alarm at the Primary Control Centre.
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Other ILI methods include the use of smart ball tools that use acoustic technology to identify small pipeline leaks, regular ground and aerial inspections of the ROW and facilities, and public awareness programs that involve municipal and emergency response agencies.
If a leak (or probable leak) occurs, the Control Centre Operators can use the SCADA system to shut down the pipeline and can immediately dispatch field operations staff to verify that a leak has occurred.
3.5.7 Spill Response Resources
Section 10 of Volume 4C identifies seven Oil Spill Containment and Recovery (OSCAR) response units along Line 2. All units contain a minimum of 229 m of containment boom, skimmers, sorbents, pumps, temporary storage, tools and personal protective gear. The closest unit to SBRP is at Westridge Marine Terminal in Burnaby (approximately 40 minutes’ drive away). In addition to the above, the Westridge response unit also has two boats (a moored boat and a second on a trailer) and 625 m of containment boom. The nearest upstream OSCAR unit is in Hope, B.C.
Kinder Morgan Canada belongs to several response organizations and participates in mutual aid exercises, including the Transport Canada-certified Western Canada Spill Response Corporation. The mandate of this group is to ensure a state of preparedness among resources to mitigate the impact of an oil spill.
Each ERP specifies standard spill tactics. The tactics are intended to control the spill source and contain and recover spilled oil. A prompt response is the key to controlling spilled bitumen, especially in watercourses where the material is prone to sinking. In addition to the mechanical approaches of containment, protection and recovery, methods involving dispersants and in situ burning are among the spill response tactics considered.
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4 Effects Assessment: Proposed Route
4.1 VEGETATION AND ECOSYSTEMS
4.1.1 Baseline Conditions
4.1.1.1 Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping and Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory
The Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory (SEI) maps the entire Proposed Route (9.0 ha) as wetland (MOE 2015; Appendix A). The Terrestrial Ecosystem Map (TEM) completed for SBRP showed the entire Proposed Route classified as swamp ecosystems (Table 4-1); however, our field reconnaissance revealed that a significant portion of the Proposed Route and surrounding area meets the definition of a bog ecosystem in Metro Vancouver (2014).
Based on the field reconnaissance, the area east of Centre Creek that was previously mapped as HG (hardhack swamp) was revised to generic bog (BG), with the exception of a small HG strip (5-10 m thick) along the CN tracks (Figure 4-1; Appendix A). The eastern polygon of BH (birch hardhack) was revised to include sections of western hemlock sphagnum (HW) (a bog with over 20% trees, including western hemlock (tsuga heterphylla) and shore pine [pinus contorta]). To the west of Centre Creek, areas classified as RC (cedar-skunk cabbage) and RH (cedar hardhack) were reduced to include an area of HW bog and a small HG strip (5-10 m thick) along the CN tracks (Figure 4-1).
Table 4-1 Codes and definitions of Terrestrial Ecosystem Map classes
SE Class* Site Series Site Series Name* Site Series Description** Code*
Swamp RC Cw Skunk Cabbage Wet/medium to rich sites on poorly drained soils
RH Cw Hardhack Redcedar dominated swamp forest
WS Tall Shrub Swamp Generic shrub swamp
HG Hardhack Swamp Generic shrub swamp
CG Canarygrass Reed canarygrass
BH Ep Hardhack Birch dominated swamp forest
Bog BG Bog Generic bog
HP Hw-Sphagnum Bog site encroached with upland forest species
Source: Metro Vancouver (2014)
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4.1.1.2 Vegetation Biodiversity
The following descriptions of habitat types and associated vegetation are from the Ecological Study of Surrey Bend (Kistritz et al. 1992) as well as from the revised TEM mapping. The 2015 field reconnaissance confirmed the presence of these species.
Birch hardhack (BH) is closely associated with the bog and is slowly regenerating after having been cleared in 1990. The BH is dominated by paper birch (Betula papyrifera), along with red alder (Alnus rubra) and black cottonwood (Populous tricocarpa). The understorey is dominated by salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis), snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) and red-osier dogwood (Cornus stolonifera).
The western hemlock sphagnum bog is dominated by shore pine (Pinus contorta) and western hemlock (Figure 4-1). The bog complex includes a thick shrub layer of Labrador tea (Ledum groenlandicum) and some blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) over a thick layer of sphagnum moss. The western red cedar-hardhack and skunk cabbage polygons are dominated by western red cedar, with minor amounts of western hemlock and Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis). The areas of hardhack are comprised of a dense layer of hardhack (Spiraea douglasii) often associated with reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea) in the understorey.
A complete list of vegetation is provided by Aquaterra (2012) and Enterprise Geoscience Services (2010).
Figure 4-1 Bog complex (western hemlock bog and general bog) in the Proposed Route
4.1.1.3 Species at Risk
A query of the B.C. Species and Ecosystem Explorer revealed 49 provincially-listed vascular and non- vascular plant species that have potential to occur within the Proposed Route (Appendix B). After
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assessing the habitat in SBRP, Aquaterra determined that eight of the 49 provincially-listed species have potential to occur within SBRP (Appendix B, Aquaterra 2012).
There was a historical record (1991) of one of these species: the blue-listed slender-spiked mannagrass (Glyceria leptostachya) occurring nearby at the intersection of 104th Avenue and 176th Street (CDC 2015). This species tends to prefer wet meadows, swamps, lakeshores, stream riparian areas, and brackish tidal marshes in lowland zones. Vancouver Island nodding beggartics (Bidebs cernua) (blue-listed species), which are typically present in areas regularly used by waterfowl, was observed east of Pacific Trail (Aquaterra 2012). The 2015 field reconnaissance confirmed that the footprint of the Proposed Route contains habitat for the eight listed species.
4.1.1.4 Invasive Plants
During the 2015 field reconnaissance, small amounts of cutleaf blackberry, Himalayan blackberry, and English holly, and large continuous strips of reed canarygrass were observed (Figure 4-2). European Mountain ash is also known to occur in the area within the bog ecosystems (A. Evely, personal communication 2015). Most of these invasive species were within 10 m of the CN rail tracks. The exception was reed canarygrass, which has formed dense root mats both adjacent to the railway corridor and along Centre Creek. Beyond this initial 10 m zone and the riparian zone of Centre Creek, most areas of SBRP appeared to be undisturbed by invasive species.
Reed canarygrass forms dense colonies that alter habitat. This plant is very efficient at using nutrients from soil in saturated conditions, which prevents the re-introduction and succession of native species. Further, this species alters the hydrology of an area as it traps silt and retains water in its dense root mats. This also makes reed canarygrass very difficult to remove.
Figure 4-2 Reed canarygrass adjacent to the CN rail tracks and at Centre Creek
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4.1.2 Vegetation Effects Assessment
Through a combination of the proposed permanent easement (18 m wide) and the Temporary Workspace (additional 25 m width), approximately 9.0 had of ROW within the Proposed Route is likely required to support the construction phase. A significant portion (3.8 ha) of the Proposed Route footprint is underlain by bog, and this area will be permanently altered by the proposed construction. Bog ecosystems, in particular, develop very slowly and are highly sensitive to changing moisture/hydrological and nutrient regimes. Specifically, they are largely isolated from mineral groundwater. Thus, it would likely not be possible to restore the vegetation community along the Proposed Route to its pre-disturbance species mix because of the anticipated changes in soils and drainage (Section 4.5). The change from bog to another ecosystem type, even after reclamation, also has implications for the wildlife that would use the footprint, including species at risk.
Construction of the Proposed Route and the anticipated attempts at reclamation has potential to introduce invasive species to the area of the alignment as well as adjacent park area. Most of the invasive species observed during the 2015 field reconnaissance appeared to have established largely due to the previous disturbance of the CN Intermodal Yard.
The potential effects of an accidental release of crude oil along the Proposed Route are discussed in Section 4.6.
4.2 WILDLIFE
4.2.1 Baseline Conditions
4.2.1.1 Wildlife Habitat
Surrey Bend Regional Park is home to the Fraser Valley’s greatest diversity of wetland types, as well as one of the largest relatively undisturbed bogs, the largest grass-dominated marsh, and the largest floodplain swamp in the valley (Metro Vancouver and City of Surrey 2010). This unique habitat supports a wide variety of mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and invertebrates (Appendix C). Further, the SBRP Management Plan has prioritized reducing impacts on wildlife within the park. One of the steps to achieving this goal has been to set aside for conservation the area that Trans Mountain is proposing as the pipeline alignment. Metro Vancouver has no trails planned for the footprint area of the Proposed Route because of its value as wildlife habitat.
The diversity of wetland habitat types provides considerable wildlife habitat in the Proposed Route and surrounding areas. The wetlands, Centre Creek, the ditch adjacent to the CN Intermodal Yard and connecting tributaries provide aquatic habitat for invertebrates and fish. Furthermore, Pacific Trail functions as a wildlife corridor (Aquaterra 2012).
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4.2.1.2 Wildlife Biodiversity
Diverse mammal, bird, amphibian and invertebrate species use the wetland and forest habitats within the Proposed Route and surrounding area. During the 2015 field reconnaissance, several species and evidence of use (e.g. scat, dams, and trails) were observed in either the Proposed Route or the surrounding area. A garter snake and red-tailed hawk were observed and incidentals of black-tailed deer, American beaver, tree-nesting birds, and muskrat were found (Figure 4-3). A list of species historically observed in SBRP is provided in Appendix C (Kistritz 1992, Enterprise 2010, City of Surrey 2010, EBB 2010, Aquaterra 2012, MoE 2015). Note that the bird species listed in Appendix C are those that have had observation records submitted. It is likely that other species have also been observed but not necessarily recorded.
Figure 4-3 Incidentals of American beaver adjacent to the Proposed Route
4.2.1.3 Species at Risk
A query of the B.C. Species and Ecosystem Explorer revealed 77 provincially-listed wildlife species that have potential to occur within the Proposed Route and surrounding area (Appendix B). Based on a recent habitat assessment, 29 species (11 birds, nine invertebrates, four mammals, three amphibians, and two fish species) of the 77 provincially-listed species were considered to have potential to occur within SBRP (Appendix B, Aquaterra 2012). Seven of these 29 species have been found within the park or nearby (Appendix C):
The Pacific water shrew (Sorex bendirii) is provincially red-listed and considered endangered by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). It prefers lowland, slow-moving, permanent watercourses and marshes, and was previously observed 300 m from SBRP east of the Proposed Route (Aquaterra 2012). The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is provincially blue-listed and considered Threatened by COSEWIC. It prefers open areas near water.
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The double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) is provincially blue-listed and considered Special Concern by COSEWIC. It uses swamps and nests both in the ground and in trees. The great blue heron (Ardea herodias) is provincially blue-listed and considered Special Concern by COSEWIC. It is a wading bird that feeds on fish, invertebrates, frogs and small mammals. The brassy minnow (Hybognathus hankinsoni) is provincially red-listed. It can be found in weedy creeks, boggy lakes, sloughs, and ditches. The beaverpond baskettail (Epitheca canis) is provincially blue-listed. Suitable habitats include marshes, bogs and slow-flowing streams. The blue dasher (Pachydiplax longipennis) is provincially blue-listed and is commonly found in ponds and lakes that feature abundant aquatic vegetation.
The Pacific water shrew (PWS) is a semi-aquatic shrew that is restricted to streamside riparian zones and marshes, wetlands, and dense wet forests with downed wood. Its distribution is limited to the Lower mainland region of B.C. and, because of these specific requirements, PWS habitat is declining and fragmented in B.C. Urban development causing loss and degradation of riparian habitat is likely the greatest threat to PWS survival and recovery (COSEWIC 2006; SARA 2014). As noted, the PWS is designated as Endangered by COSEWIC and has been listed in Schedule 1 of the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA). A PWS recovery team has been assembled to protect known sites, restore historical habitats, and prevent habitat fragmentation (MoE 2010). Between 2003 and 2009, four captures of PWS were documented just outside SBRP (Figure 4-4). Furthermore, SBRP contains potential habitat for the species.
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Mill
CN Railaway Intermodal Yard
South Fraser Perimeter Road M P
2 3 : 7 2 : 3
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5 1 0 2 / 0 3 / 4
/ d x m . w e r h S W P e t a n r e t l A Meters y e r r 0 100 200 300 400 500 u S
PROJECT NO.: 2014-2798.000.000 FIGURE 4-4: PACIFIC WATER SHREW DATE: April 2015 HABITAT AND OBSERVATIONS Stream Pacific Water Shrew Habitat and Observations DRAWN BY: DA City of Surrey Surrey Bend Regional Park Environmental Assessment
City of Surrey
4.2.2 Wildlife Effects Assessment
As noted, 29 animal species at risk have potential to occur within the Proposed Route and surrounding area (Appendix B). Of those, one red- and six blue-listed species have been observed in SBRP (Appendix C). Areas of hardhack along the CN tracks provide nesting areas for songbirds, while wetland areas provide habitat for shorebirds, mammals, amphibians and invertebrates. Considering that the proposed alignment is within the vicinity of PWS sightings and contains potential PWS habitat, development of this route would warrant a formal detailed assessment and, depending on the outcome, salvage of PWS individuals (MoE 2010).
The area within the Proposed Route is an important contributor to bog ecosystem function within the SBRP. The construction planned for the Proposed Route will affect the habitat that supports a number of species at risk and the red- and blue-listed species. Although the intent is to reclaim the Temporary Workspace following construction, reclaiming the bog area and creating the ecosystem function that supports these wildlife species will be very difficult, if not impossible.
Potential effects on wildlife from an accidental release of crude oil are discussed in Section 4.6.
4.3 FISH AND FISH HABITAT
4.3.1 Baseline Conditions
4.3.1.1 Fish Habitat Assessment
The City has developed a watercourse classification system that provides an overall fish habitat value rating based on fish presence, duration of water flow, and water source and surrounding vegetation (Table 4-2). In this system, the term “fish” refers to both salmonids and regionally significant fish.
Several Class A and Class AO streams, along with a small portion of Class B streams, are within the Proposed Route. The 2015 field reconnaissance revealed that the A and AO streams would be considered moderate to poor fish habitat, with the exception of Centre Creek, which is high-value fish habitat. In general, the streams are wide, low-gradient channels that feature extensive vegetation (reed canarygrass mats) which obstructs some channels. The substrate is mainly organics and lacks any cobbles or gravels. Water quality is poor (high turbidity, expected low dissolved oxygen) and the streams are generally stagnant.
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Table 4-2 City of Surrey watercourse classification system
Classification Map Symbol Description
Class A Solid red line Inhabited by or potentially inhabited by fish year round if migration barriers are removed.
Class A(O) Dashed red line Inhabited by or potentially inhabited by fish primarily during the overwintering period.
Class B Solid blue line Significant food and/or nutrient value, no fish present.
Class C Solid green line Insignificant food and/or nutrient value or roadside ditches.
4.3.1.2 Fish Species
Centre Creek supports five species of juvenile salmonids (cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka), coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta)) as well as 13 other fish species (Kistritz 1992, Levings et al. 1995, Aquaterra 2012, MoE 2015b).
4.3.2 Fish Effects Assessment
The Proposed Route is likely to overlap with 172 m of Class A and 962 m of Class AO streams. The potential for effects on fish and fish habit depends on the stream crossing methods used and the amount of channel and riparian disturbance that occurs. If trenchless methods are used, it should be possible to minimize direct effects (see CAPP et al. 2012 for descriptions of crossing methods); however, the potential alterations in wetland hydrology from pipeline placement could affect streamflow (see Section 4.5).
4.4 PUBLIC ACCESS
4.4.1 Baseline Conditions
Currently, public access to the Proposed Route is very difficult. CN does not permit public access to its Intermodal Yard without a permit, and no paths lead from the public entrance to the park into the proposed pipeline corridor. Further, a very dense layer of hardhack borders the railway tracks, making public access to the park very challenging. This poor access contributes to the current relatively undisturbed state of this area of the park.
4.4.2 Public Access Effects Assessment
The Proposed Route requires a 45 m wide ROW through the park to support construction. The Temporary Workspace (approximately 25 m width) will be reclaimed by Trans Mountain. It is possible that Trans
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Mountain will also require Extra Temporary Workspace for pipeline staging areas. The 18 m wide easement, which is likely to be established a safe distance from the tracks, will be permanent to support long-term maintenance and emergency response needs.
It is highly unlikely that the reclamation efforts in the Temporary Workspace will restore the Proposed Route to pre-disturbance ecosystem function as bog. Instead, approximately 4 ha (permanent easement) and 5 ha (Temporary Workspace), respectively, could result in increased public access (despite the presence of gates) because of the proximity of these spaces to SBRP trails and because of the large local population. Though the easement will likely have signs stating that the pipeline corridor is closed to the public, this area will probably be used by the public, who will introduce domestic animals, weeds and increase litter and disturbance in the area. The result could be a reduction of the undisturbed nature of SBRP, at least within the areas adjacent to the Proposed Route.
4.5 BOG HYDRAULICS AND SOIL MOISTURE
4.5.1 Baseline Conditions
4.5.1.1 Bog Hydrology Background
One of the key features that makes SBRP unique is that it contains significant areas of true bog as well as transition areas with a mixture of swamp, marsh, fen, and bog characteristics. A bog is defined as a peatland-type wetland that is dominated by Sphagnum vegetation, and that receives water exclusively from precipitation and is not influenced by groundwater (NWWG 1997) Bogs are ombrotrophic (“rain-fed”) and are essentially disconnected from groundwater and surface water (NWWG 1997). Once common, bog ecosystems are now relatively uncommon in the Lower Mainland due to the land development that has occurred.
Bogs are considered particularly sensitive to the impacts of development because alterations in drainage along bog margins or in adjacent areas can affect the main ombrotrophic portion of the bog (Howie and Meerveld 2011). In coastal bog ecosystems, precipitation is greater than evapotranspiration, resulting in the presence of stagnant water with low dissolved oxygen content, acidic pH, and poor nutrient content. These conditions are suitable for peat formation and accumulation, and in some cases lead to the raised or “domed” surface topography that isolates the bog from groundwater influence. The accumulation of peat/organic matter further acidifies and reduces available nutrients in bogs because organic matter has a high cation exchange capacity and, thus, absorbs cations (e.g. Ca+2 and Mg+2) in exchange for hydrogen (Rydin and Jeglum 2006).
Hydrology is the single most important condition that influences bog ecology, development, function, and processes (Rydin and Jeglum 2006). To understand how bog hydrology determines the characteristics of a particular bog, it is necessary to consider water’s occurrence, movement, chemistry, and interactions with the environment (including biology).
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4.5.1.2 Surrey Bend Bog
The peat in SBRP is approximately 6-7 m deep and is underlain by a 2 m silt-clay confining layer (Enterprise 2010). Below this, groundwater generally flows from upland areas towards the Fraser River through a layer of fine sand.
The park includes a mosaic of wetland types that include bog, fen, marsh, and swamp forest. Based on the field reconnaissance, the bog areas within SBRP (including the Proposed Route) appear to consist mostly of either flat bog or areas that are only slightly raised relative to surrounding areas. The characteristics of these types of bogs are similar to those of raised bogs, with a peat mound above the local water table and a lagg3 area (Rydin and Jeglum 2006); however, the specific structure and function of Surrey Bend Bog is not well understood because a detailed inventory has not been completed. Flat bogs are generally surrounded by a lagg area. Laggs buffer the nutrient poor water of the bog from the cation-rich adjacent lands and have a denser peat layer (Howie and Meerveld 2011). Development effects on the lagg, such as excavation or alterations in drainage, can affect the adjacent bog if they change groundwater or surface flow or geochemistry.
Flat and mound bogs are diplotelmic; they have two layers (Rydin and Jeglum 2006). The acrotelm is the active layer, which is above the water table (or only temporarily submerged) and characterized by peat, Labrador tea and shrub growth (as evidenced in the Proposed Route vegetation). In this layer, water storage changes in the short term (monthly to daily). The catotelm is the anoxic submerged layer where peat accumulation occurs and water storage changes very little in the long term (decades to centuries). .
4.5.1.3 Groundwater and Surface Water
Groundwater flow in the study area is southwest to northeast (towards the Fraser River). Bog recharge occurs on the southwest side of SBRP (i.e. in the Proposed Route the aquifer is confined), whereas bog discharge occurs near the Fraser River (Enterprise 2010).
The bog areas of SBRP are currently disconnected from surface water regimes; however, the lagg areas are affected by ditches, tributaries and the flooding of the Fraser River. It is possible, or even likely, that development within and adjacent to SBRP has affected the lagg and, thereby, reduced the area of bog within the current park boundaries, but this has not been assessed in detail.
4.5.1.4 Water Chemistry
The bog within SBRP is different from a number of other Pacific coastal bogs as it is not truly ombrotrophic (Enterprise 2010). Due to the proximity to the Fraser River, the bog is somewhat influenced by brackish water during high tides and from runoff from upland areas (Enterprise 2010). Thus, although typical bog chemistry exists (low oxygen, acidic, nutrient poor), the bog exhibits greater variation in water quality than
3 Lagg is a term that refers to the transition zone between an ombrotrophic bog and the mineral soils in the surrounding landscape (Howie and Meerveld 2011).
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other coastal bogs. This unique aspect of the SBRP bog has implications for plant and possibly animal biodiversity.
4.5.1.5 Biology
The plant communities within SBRP are largely a result of the habitat created by the bog conditions that have developed very slowly through time. According to historical vegetation mapping (North et al. 1977) and air photo interpretation (Enterprise 2010), the area of hardhack and reed canarygrass in SBRP increased substantially after the rail line development altered the bog ecology. One can see evidence of this currently in the Proposed Route, where the forest openings along the rail line have likely resulted from alterations to the bog hydrology that occurred from development in what was previously bog and in the lagg. Despite this evidence of effects beyond the immediate vicinity of the rail yard, the existing bog areas are in good condition and largely resemble natural coastal bog conditions.
4.5.2 Bog Hydrology Effects Assessment
4.5.2.1 Previous Studies and Potential Effects Mechanisms
The wetland areas within SBRP have been subject to disturbance since the 1890s (Section 2.1.2). One notable permanent disturbance that illustrates the potential for effects on bogs outside the footprint was the construction of the Maple Ridge Forcemain. The forcemain was built in the early 1980s and runs from the end of Pacific Trail to the CN Intermodal Yard (east/west) directly through the Surrey Bend bog. The effects of this forcemain are readily apparent on aerial photographs, which show changes in vegetation along a band that is typically approximately 20 m wide and parallel to the forcemain (Figure 1-2). This area of disturbance through the bog has been colonized by non-bog species, including birch and reed canarygrass.
Recently, an environmental assessment (EA) of development of the SFPR adjacent to Burns Bog in Delta, B.C. was completed (EAO 2007). Although Burns Bog is larger and has some different characteristics, the findings of the EA are relevant to this situation because the Burns Bog assessment considered how development in the lagg and on the margins could affect the function of the bog. Portions of the Burns Bog lagg area had been disturbed for peat mining in the 1900s and the impacts of these disturbances remain. The EA focused on how and to what degree the construction and operation of SFPR might impact Burns Bog (EAO 2007).
The EA outlined a number of risks to the long-term ecological integrity of the bog. Major project challenges included the following (EAO 2007):
Protecting water chemistry – It would be challenging to ensure that “non-bog” waters, including highway run-off and water from adjacent upland areas, did not flow towards Burns Bog. This could result in changes to water chemistry within the bog. Maintaining water levels – Given the unique hydrology regime of the bog, construction and operation of the highway would possibly increase drainage, reduce the acrotelm layer of areas within Burns Bog, or lower water tables.
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Avoiding introduction of invasive plants – It would be difficult to ensure that construction and operation of the proposed road did not result in the introduction of non-bog plant species. Minimizing road-related dust/particulate – The project would need to avoid the introduction of particulate matter associated with construction and operation that could impact water chemistry. Limited data – It is important to obtain sufficient information to support a robust understanding of existing conditions, particularly with respect to the movement of surface water and groundwater associated with the area. Managing existing site contamination – Construction of the project would require decommissioning of existing landfills directly adjacent to Burns Bog.
The outcome of the Burns Bog component of the SFPR EA was that the SFPR was realigned in places to minimize direct effects on the bog and the lagg zone. In general, regulators and stakeholders determined that the realignment away from the lagg was needed to protect the ecological function of Burns Bog, and that other types of mitigation were unlikely to be successful.
4.5.2.2 Effects Assessment: Surrey Bend Bog
As described in Section 4.1.2, a pipeline in SBRP would have a direct, permanent effect on the Surrey Bend Bog, both in the ROW and in the temporary work areas. The likely outcome would be that bog function could not be restored in the ROW and adjacent areas. In addition, down-gradient bog areas are likely to be affected by changes in bog hydrology and geochemistry.
The types of effects that could occur are similar to the potential effects of linear development on Burns Bog that were identified during the EA for the SFPR. Pipeline development within Surrey Bend Bog would present a number of environmental and ecological challenges, including protecting water chemistry within the bog (i.e. avoiding the introduction of mineral-containing water), maintaining the lagg areas that separate bog water from adjacent mineral water, maintaining water levels, avoiding introduction of invasive plants, and minimizing the introduction of particulate matter that could influence water chemistry.
Construction of the Proposed Route will directly alter the hydrology of the bog, which would likely cause changes to flow (surface water and shallow groundwater), chemistry, and biology within the footprint and in down-gradient areas. This potential exists regardless of the construction method that is selected (conventional or trenchless) because the existing predominant groundwater flow direction (i.e. southwest to northeast) would be changed by the presence of the pipe. If the current sub-surface separation between the peat and the underlying sediments is disturbed, there would be upwelling of groundwater (as the system is under pressure), which would result in mineral groundwater moving into bog areas. Furthermore, construction activities in the bog will cause compaction of the peat surface of both the bog and lagg area, which would reduce the water-holding capacity of the Proposed Route area.
The anticipated changes in shallow groundwater flow would introduce oxygenated, mineral rich-water with higher pH to the bog areas, altering bog chemistry of not only the footprint but also the surrounding area. These changes will allow for peat decomposition from aerobic organisms and the minerotrophic conditions that promote larger swamp vegetation that shades out Labrador tea and Sphagnum growth (Rydin and
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Jeglum 2006). Disturbance could result in the eventual replacement of bog habitat with swamp or fen ecosystems (Howie and Meerveld 2011).
As outlined earlier, portions of the Proposed Route footprint through SBRP are not “true bog” but are lagg, which would be classified as fen. The introduction of minerotrophic water could also adversely affect the lagg zone’s function as an ecotone (i.e. a transition zone between upland and wetland ecosystems), thus, decreasing biodiversity in SBRP. The lagg is dependent on water from both the bog and upland; thus, it is more susceptible to changes in the catchment of surrounding areas than the bog itself. Furthermore, construction in the lagg areas could inhibit the recovery of the bog ecozone, as the lagg is important in buffering the bog from the influence of mineral rich water (Howie and Meerveld 2011).
The Proposed Route requires a 45 m wide ROW through the park to support construction. Approximately 25 m will undergo reclamation in attempt to restore it to pre-construction condition. The 18 m wide easement, which would likely be established a safe distance from the tracks, will be permanent in order to meet Trans Mountain’s long-term maintenance and emergency response needs. As such, the direct (footprint) and indirect (down-gradient) effects on bog hydrology and geochemistry are likely to be permanent. The spatial extent of the indirect effects is difficult to predict without a more detailed assessment of groundwater flows. To date, Trans Mountain has not completed such an assessment in SBRP.
4.6 ACCIDENTS AND MALFUNCTIONS
Section 3.5 outlines the emergency response framework that Trans Mountain proposes in the Application as a means of addressing leaks (i.e. small releases of oil from weak areas of the pipe) and spills (e.g. from a pipeline break). Based on the technology and systems proposed by Trans Mountain, it is recognized that there is low likelihood of leaks and spills within the Proposed Route or the Alternate Routes. This section of the report emphasizes the consequences to the environment should a spill occur in or adjacent to SBRP, where the proximity to an industrial operation (the CN Intermodal Yard) and a number of major roads and other pipelines suggests higher potential for ground disturbance than in other locations along any of the routes. Furthermore, this section explores “catastrophic” scenarios, such as fires or major spills, on the ecology of the proposed alignment.
4.6.1 Vegetation and Ecosystems
A spill in SBRP would be most problematic in the areas with wetlands, especially where peat is present in bogs and fens. Peat is highly absorptive and the oil would tend to saturate the peat layers above the water table. This would necessitate their complete removal during spill clean-up, along with the trees, shrubs and other plants on the surface. Unlike mineral soils or even other types of wetlands (e.g. marshes), the restoration of bogs and fens is not straightforward because they have developed over a considerable period of time with the slow accumulation of peat. Recent research (e.g. Gorham and Rochefort 2003) has begun to explore the development of bog restoration techniques, but the practice has not yet reached wide practical application, except at commercial peat operations. Therefore, the outcome of a spill to the bog
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areas is likely to be long-term loss of bog and fen vegetation, and their ecological function, in all affected areas.
A spill may lead to a fire in SBRP. After a fire, plant community composition changes in bogs (Hebda et al. 2010). If a fire significantly damages or destroys part of the acrotelm and eliminates much of the Sphagnum community, shrub species (e.g. Labrador tea, salal, blueberry, or other shrubs whose roots survive the burn) will likely recolonize. Other potential colonists include invasive/exotic species (e.g. European birch, blackberry). Eventually (after decades or centuries), Sphagnum species can return, but as was observed after fires in Burns Bog, the ecosystem will likely change. Burns Bog has changed from a wet white beak rush-sphagnum bog to a drier pine-sphagnum ecosystem (Hebda et al. 2010).
4.6.2 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat
Effects on wildlife from an oil spill adjacent to SBRP include direct effects on wildlife species that are present, and loss of habitat. Direct effects would likely be limited to effects on small mammals and amphibians present in the immediate vicinity of the pipe break, assuming that emergency crews were on site within a reasonable time after the spill began. Effects could extend further if the spill reached Centre Creek and oil was deposited along the banks and in downstream riparian areas, or if oil was to reach the Fraser River, where waterfowl may be present. Oil can affect wildlife via a number of mechanisms, including coating or smothering; the toxicity associated with ingestion or absorption through respiratory structures or skin (which affects gas exchange, temperature regulation, or other life-supporting processes); and oxygen depletion as the oil is degraded by microorganisms (Mendelssohn et al. 2012).
Loss of wildlife habitat would result from the need to remove the peat as part of spill clean-up, as described above. Such losses would likely last for many decades some time unless active measures are taken to restore the wetland habitat to baseline conditions.
A fire in SBRP would likely cause mortalities in vertebrate and invertebrate communities, and destroy habitat. Decreases to bird abundance and diversity are possible while the ecosystem recovers; however, an increase in the number of woodpeckers was observed in Burns Bog after fire disturbance occurred there, and this population rise was likely related to the increased amount of snags (Hebda et al. 2010).
4.6.3 Fish and Fish Habitat
A spill in or near Centre Creek would have potentially serious consequences to fish in the creek and in the Fraser River. The distance from the Proposed Route crossing of Centre Creek to the Fraser River is approximately 1,640 m. Depending on flow in Centre Creek, it is possible that oil from a spill could reach the Fraser River before emergency crews can arrive to contain the spill (e.g. at a stream flow velocity of 0.5 m/s, this movement of oil would take about 55 minutes). Even if the oil did not reach the Fraser River before being contained, some portion of Centre Creek would receive impacts. As noted in Section 4.3, Centre Creek provides habitat for three species of Pacific salmon (chum, chinook, and sockeye) as well as 13 other fish species.
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A fire in SBRP would introduce ash and particulate matter into streams, which would likely temporarily decrease water quality for fish. Furthermore, the loss of riparian cover could affect channel stability and result in warmer water temperatures due to the loss of shade.
4.6.4 Bog Hydraulics and Geochemistry
A spill of oil into either the bog or the lagg could cause impacts not only in the immediately affected area, but also adjacent areas. A spill would require substantial clean-up, including the likely removal of soil and peat, which would affect the nature of shallow groundwater flows. Potential effects on the down-gradient wetlands would be similar to those that could occur from the original pipeline construction (Section 4.7). Burned areas will temporarily transpire less (due to decreased plant cover), which would raise the water table and alter bog hydraulics until plant re-establishment occurred (Hebda et al. 2010).
4.7 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
In the event of an oil spill within the Proposed Route, the oil will likely leave the more compacted soil conditions in the easement area and flow down gradient into the Surrey Bend bog. The oil will pool in depressions and collect in ditches that flow into Centre Creek before entering the Fraser River. The oil will enter the bog and, depending upon the volume of the spill, will spread rapidly through the upper layers of the bog.
Trans Mountain has not yet revealed their specific emergency response plans to the public; however, Section 3.5 of this report generally describes the company’s emergency response procedures (i.e. for an oil spill within SBRP). The Prime Contractor will provide more detailed emergency response steps in their specific Emergency Response Plan. However, since the Proposed Route is largely within a bog and the ditches feed into a fish-bearing stream, we assume that any oil spill in SBRP triggers a Level 3 response from Trans Mountain.
As defined in Section 3.5, in a Level 3 response, Trans Mountain seeks outside assistance from industry, municipal and/or provincial emergency response personnel. The affected parties likely include Trans Mountain, CN, the City of Surrey, MOTI, and local emergency response personnel. Trans Mountain’s nearest emergency facilities are at the Westridge Marine Terminal, approximately 40 minutes’ drive away. The fact that access into SBRP is difficult would likely further delay containment efforts.
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5 Effects Assessment: Alternate Routes (Options A and B)
Alternate Route Option A (between the CN Intermodal Yard and the SFPR) and Alternate Route Option B (south of the SFPR) have very similar baseline conditions and potential effects; thus, we have generally discussed them together. Exceptions were made where the differences between the two options warranted further attention.
5.1 VEGETATION AND ECOSYSTEMS
5.1.1 Baseline Conditions
5.1.1.1 Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping and Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory
Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping and SEI mapping indicated that the majority of each Alternate Route was disturbed and not in a sensitive ecosystem. The exceptions were a small portion of wetland near the SFPR Bridge and scattered wetlands near 104th Avenue that were classified as sensitive ecosystems (0.8 ha total for Alternate Route Option A and 2.7 ha for Alternate Route Option B).
Both the Alternate Routes were recently disturbed during construction of the SFPR. Today, much of the vegetation within these corridors is anthropogenic (i.e. human-influenced) and of low ecological value (particularly Alternate Route Option A and the southern half of Alternate Route Option B).
5.1.1.2 Vegetation Biodiversity
The vegetation communities within the Alternate Routes are largely comprised of grasses that were planted following completion of SFPR. As such, these corridors have relatively low ecosystem value (Figure 5-1). Alternate Route Option A is of particularly low ecosystem value as only the original poplar forest remains at the western edges by the bridge, with a few trees remaining near the CN Intermodal Yard. In Alternate Route Option B, trees have colonized the central and western portion in the area around the lowland drainage complex that receives runoff from the upland areas of Surrey and drains towards Centre Creek. These observations were confirmed during the 2015 field reconnaissance.
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Figure 5-1 Typical vegetation in the Alternate Route A
5.1.1.3 Species at Risk
Prior to construction of the SFPR, both Alternate Routes likely had potential to host a number of the provincially-listed species (i.e. the 49 species noted in Section 4.1.1.3). No observations of plant species at risk were made during the SFPR vegetation surveys.
During the 2015 field reconnaissance, we determined that the highly disturbed areas of both Alternate Routes have low potential to support the two species at risk that were previously documented in the area (i.e. streambank lupine and Vancouver Island beggarticks). It is also highly likely that these species will not occupy sites where reed cannerygrass is dominant. Given the predominance of this habitat feature in both Alternate Routes, there is low likelihood that the routes will host these species at risk.
5.1.1.4 Invasive Plants
During the 2015 field reconnaissance, the Alternate Routes were noted to be heavily colonized by invasive plant species. Reed canarygrass was established around ditches and wetlands, and Himalayan blackberry and Scotch broom dominated drier upslope areas (Figure 5-2).
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Figure 5-2 Himalayan blackberry in Alternate Route A
5.1.2 Vegetation Effects Assessment
The plant communities in the Alternate Routes include both native species and anthropogenic grasses that were planted along SFPR to prevent soil erosion. Pipeline construction along either of the Alternate Routes would occur within areas already altered or impacted during SFPR construction; therefore, impacts on plant species diversity, habitat value, and species at risk would be minimal. Considering the highly disturbed nature of these areas, it is unlikely that new construction in either Alternate Routes would increase the presence of invasive plant species. Construction may present an opportunity to better manage invasive plant species in the area.
5.2 WILDLIFE
5.2.1 Baseline Conditions
5.2.1.1 Wildlife Habitat
Because Alternate Route Option A is bordered closely by SFPR to the west and the CN Intermodal Yard to the east, the habitat within most of this alignment is fragmented and has limited value for wildlife. The potential for birds, small mammals, amphibians and invertebrates to inhabit the open area is low; however, there is habitat structure to the west of the alignment in the area surrounding the SFPR Bridge. Alternate Route Option B borders wildlife habitat to the southwest. Although the habitat within this alignment is lower quality than that of the surrounding areas, the area that this route occupies serves to maintain habitat connectivity and acts as an edge habitat for the adjacent habitat node.
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5.2.1.2 Wildlife Biodiversity
The low-value habitat within Alternate Route Option A offers little ecosystem function to support diverse types of wildlife. The SFPR Bridge area to the west provides a wildlife corridor for animals to move between SBRP and the area to the southwest of SFPR. Alternate Route Option B provides comparatively higher habitat value, as it is adjacent to a habitat node and is also connected to the wildlife corridor beneath the SFPR.
5.2.1.3 Species at Risk
The potential for wildlife species at risk to occur in either of the Alternate Routes is similar to that in the Proposed Route. No red- or blue-listed species have been documented in the Proposed Route or in Alternate Route Option A; however, the red-listed PWS has been observed in Alternate Route Option B, specifically near SBRP on the south side of the SFPR 300 m north of the intersection of 108th Avenue and 168th Street (MoE 2015a, Appendix B).
5.2.2 Wildlife Effects Assessment Summary
Much of the habitat in the Alternate Routes was recently disturbed for construction of the SFPR. Given that this area is largely comprised of anthropogenic vegetation, reclaiming it to its current state is easier to do than reclaiming the largely undisturbed habitat in the Proposed Route.
As with the Proposed Route, both Alternate Routes are in the vicinity of the PWS observation and likely contain suitable habitat. The Alternate Routes were surveyed for the SFPR development, and no PWS were observed. Surveys for PWS must be conducted as part of construction in either of the Proposed or Alternate Routes.
5.3 FISH AND FISH HABITAT
5.3.1 Baseline Conditions
5.3.1.1 Fish Habitat Assessment
Applying the City’s classification system for watercourses, Alternate Route Option A encompasses a relatively small amount of Class A (430 m), a large amount of Class AO (1,198 m), and a small amount of Class B (201 m) watercourses (Appendix D). In comparison, Alternate Route Option B encompasses more Class A (820 m), but less Class AO (235 m) and Class B (23 m) watercourses (Appendix D).
The 2015 field reconnaissance of Alternate Route Option A revealed that almost all the A and AO watercourses affected provide poor fish habitat, with the exception of the area under the SFPR Bridge, which is moderate habitat. These watercourse features are wider, low-gradient channels that have extensive vegetation (reed canarygrass) and organic substrate that lacks cobbles or gravels. The water quality is typically poor and most streams are stagnant. Extensive riparian vegetation overhangs these creeks and provides shade. Water depth is low (<0.5 m) and the watercourses are likely to be dry during
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the summer months. Though these watercourses are used for migration to fish-bearing watercourses (i.e. they are red coded under the City of Surrey’s classification system), they offer little to no spawning potential.
Similarly, the watercourses in Alternate Route Option B provide lower value fish habitat along the south- east portion of the alignment that has been impacted by previous construction. Towards the west end of the alignment and closer to the SFPR Bridge, the watercourses provide medium to high quality fish habitat for migration, rearing and overwintering.
5.3.1.2 Fish Species
In Alternate Route Option A, threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) have been documented in the creek that flows under the SFPR Bridge; however, there are no documented fish species in the watercourse adjacent to the CN rail line. It is reasonable to assume that these fish species may be present in this watercourse, as no barriers to fish movement were noted during the January 2015 site reconnaissance. In Route Option B, threespine stickleback, coho salmon and cutthroat trout have been observed and a juvenile salmonid was observed during the 2015 field assessment.
5.3.2 Fish Effects Assessment
The watercourses within the highly disturbed portions of the Alternate Routes generally provide low-value fish habitat. If the pipeline were to be installed in Alternate Route Option A, the watercourses that were previously constructed along the southwest property boundary of the CN Intermodal Yard would be temporarily altered during pipeline construction. The impacts would include temporary or permanent loss of low-value fish habitat. Construction in the watercourses along Alternate Route Option B would likely have a greater impact on fish habitat as this area comprises approximately twice the amount of Class A fish habitat than that provided by Alternate Route Option A.
5.4 PUBLIC ACCESS
5.4.1 Baseline Access
The public has relatively easy access to the Alternate Routes, as both run adjacent to the SFPR, which has pull-outs, wide shoulders, and few concrete barriers along this stretch. However, the signage currently in place discourages the public from stopping and accessing this area.
5.4.2 Access Effects Assessment
Public access to the Alternate Routes would not likely change after pipeline development.
5-5
City of Surrey
5.5 BOG HYDRAULICS AND SOIL MOISTURE
5.5.1 Baseline Conditions
The Alternate Routes currently contain no bog habitat. Some sections of each route would be classified as marsh swamps based on the presence of cattails and other marsh plant species.
5.5.2 Bog Hydraulics Effects Assessment
As the Alternate Routes are not within a bog ecosystem, there would be no direct effects on bog hydrology. There would also be no indirect effects to the surrounding area, as there are already drainage structures in place for the SFPR. Effects of upwelling from during construction would only be temporary if the water table is managed appropriately (Section 4.4).
5.6 ACCIDENTS AND MALFUNCTIONS
If an oil spill were to occur in Alternate Route Option A, the direct ecological effects would be less than in an undisturbed area, in part because the CN rail line and SFPR would help contain most of the spill within the highly disturbed area. In Alternate Route Option B, the spill would impact the lowland wetland in the alignment. The major concern with both Alternate Routes is the potential for oil to flow to Centre Creek and on towards SBRP and the Fraser River. However, access to the ditches and culverts within both Alternate Routes are easily accessible from SFPR, so oil booms and other temporary structures could quickly be installed to control the spill.
After a spill in either Alternate Route is contained, affected soil would be removed and the aquatic and terrestrial features would be restored and replanted using a combination of ecologically appropriate species and standard roadside revegetation methods for the Lower Mainland. Negligible effects on the down- gradient bogs and other wetlands in SBRP would be expected, as long as the emergency response procedures can be implemented in a timely manner.
5.7 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
If an oil spill occurs in Alternate Route Option A, most of the oil will stay within the corridor between the SFPR and the CN tracks, and will collect in the ditches that flow northwest for 2 km towards the Fraser River. Similarly, an oil spill in the northwest part of Alternate Route B will likely pool adjacent to SFPR and ultimately follow the same creek and flow towards the Fraser River.
If an oil spill occurs at the south end of both Alternate Route Options, the oil will likely flow into the ditch that flows adjacent to Pacific Trail and drain into Centre Creek 1.7 km away. Under either Alternate Route Option, the close proximity to SFPR means Trans Mountain containment strategies would benefit from the close proximity to the highway, thereby likely decreasing the impacts of an oil spill on the SBRP bog.
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As mentioned previously, Trans Mountain has not yet revealed their specific emergency response plans to the public. Section 3.5 of this report generally describes the emergency response procedures they would follow in the event of an emergency. The Prime Contractor will provide specific emergency response details in their Emergency Response Plan. However, since a spill in the Alternate Route Alignment is in close proximity to both SFPR and CN Rail, and the oil ultimately flows into fish bearing streams, an oil spill is likely to trigger a Level 3 response from Trans Mountain.
In a Level 3 response, Trans Mountain seeks outside assistance from industry, municipal and/or provincial emergency response personnel. In this case the affected parties likely include Trans Mountain, CN, MOTI, the City of Surrey and local emergency response personnel. Trans Mountain’s nearest emergency facilities are at the Westridge Marine Terminal, located approximately 40 minutes away.
5-7
REPORT
6 Summary and Comparison of Alignments
Table 6-1 contains the summary of the key issues described in the project scope for the Proposed Route and the two Alternate Routes.
6-1
Table 6-1 Summary and comparison of routes
Bog Hydraulics, Soil Moisture & Alignment Vegetation & Ecosystems Wildlife & Wildlife Habitat Fish & Fish Habitat Public Access Accidents & Malfunctions Emergency Response Geochemistry Permanent alignment and SBRP provides high habitat value Route will require crossing of Centre Permanent route will directly affect Public access to route in SBRP is Likelihood of spill is low, but Details of emergency response Proposed by Trans temporary work area will disturb with significant diversity of wildlife Creek, which provides habitat for 3 salmon existing bog, fen and swamp. currently very difficult due to bog proximity to railway and other plan not yet public. Mountain 3.8 ha of undisturbed bog and 5.2 habitat including a mix of bog, species and 13 other fish species. Conventional trench installation could terrain and thick brush. pipelines creates potential. Travel time is 40 minutes from ha of swamp ecosystems. (9.0 ha swamp, upland, and Fraser River Area affected by construction includes 172 affect shallow groundwater flow and SBRP Management Plan calls for Consequence of spill to Centre TransMountain’s Westridge of sensitive wetland ecosystem). floodplain. m of Class A streams, 962 m of Class AO introduce mineral groundwater to restricted access to minimize effects Creek is significant – direct marine terminal that contains the Restoration of bog in Temporary Twenty-nine red- and blue-listed streams, and 0 m other streams (Classes bogs, triggering loss of bog habitat on sensitive ecosystems. effects on 1.64 km of Centre Oil Spill Containment and Workspace will likely be species have potential to occur in B and C). beyond the footprint. Pipeline right-of-way could increase Creek channel habitat; possible Recovery team. challenging with low probability of route, including Pacific Water Shrew, Crossing method not yet specified by Effects possible with disturbance of access from south perimeter of effects on Fraser River. Containment activities within the success. double-crested cormorant, and great Trans Mountain. Trenchless technology both existing bog and lagg (transition SBRP, with potential for increased Oil spills to bog areas would park would likely be delayed due Eight blue- and red-listed species blue heron. could minimize potential effects. zone). effects (e.g. litter, dog-wildlife require peat removal to to difficult access. with the potential to be present The area has been identified as interaction). remediate, which could alter bog Train traffic on CN rail line could along Proposed route. critical habitat for Pacific Water hydrology and geochemistry extend response time to enter Invasive species are primarily Shrew in this species’ recovery beyond spill area. SBRP. within 10 m of CN rail line. strategy. Long-term disturbance likely if Construction will likely introduce Projected permanent loss of 9.0 ha of spill occurs. invasive species into the park. habitat in pipeline footprint. Further Crosses blue-listed ecosystems loss likely if Temporary Workspace (CW skunk cabbage and PI cannot be restored to baseline. sphagnum) Indirect effects probable from changes to bog hydrology. Area previously disturbed by SFPR Area currently provides poor habitat Alignment will cross 430m of Class A Area has been previously excavated Route is located between SFPR and Spill from pipe breakage could Travel time from Alternate Route construction. value and is isolated from SBRP and streams, 1,198 m of Class AO streams, for SFPR and CN Railway-related CN Intermodal Yard in a utility flow down-gradient to TransMountain’s Westridge - Option A Contains 0.8 ha of sensitive other natural areas. and 201 m of Class B streams. None has construction. corridor. watercourses that connect terminal similar to that for wetland ecosystem. Negligible potential for effects on been observed to contain salmon. Likely outside lagg zone for bog in Negligible interest by public to access through to SBRP and also along Proposed Route, but less Limited connection to nearby wildlife and wildlife habitat compared Habitat is rated poor. SBRP. site, and unsafe to do so. SFPR to the Fraser River. potential for rail crossing delays. natural areas. to baseline condition. Standard pipeline crossing techniques No direct effects on bogs or fens. Likely more opportunity to contain Containment activities are likely Cover is dominated by non-native Area has been identified as critical likely acceptable for minimizing effects on spills to south side of CN improved by close proximity to and agronomic species. habitat for Pacific Water Shrew (red- fish. Intermodal Yard. SFPR. Standard pipeline reclamation listed) in the Pacific Water Shrew would likely restore baseline recovery strategy. condition. Blue- and red-listed plant species unlikely to be present along route. Alternate Route Contains 2.7 ha of sensitive Area currently provides medium Alignment will cross 820 m of Class A Area has been previously excavated Route is located south of SFPR. Spill from pipe breakage could Travel time from - Option B wetland ecosystem habitat value as it is connected to a stream, 235 m of Class AO stream, and 23 for SFPR and CN Railway-related Relatively easy access to site from flow down-gradient to TransMountain’s Westridge Connection to a natural area. natural area in the west part of this m of Class B watercourses. None has construction. SFPR and adjoining neighbourhoods. watercourses that connect terminal similar to that for Much of the cover is dominated by Alternate Route. been observed to contain salmon, but Likely outside lagg zone for bog in through to SBRP. Proposed Route, but less non-native and agronomic species. Less potential for effects on wildlife sections along the west part of alignment SBRP. Likely more opportunity to contain potential for rail crossing delays. Standard pipeline reclamation and wildlife habitat compared to provide medium to high potential fish No direct effects on bogs but crosses spills than exists for the Proposed Containment activities are likely would likely restore baseline Proposed Route. habitat. through a low-lying wetland. Route improved by close proximity to condition. Area has been identified as critical Standard pipeline crossing techniques SFPR. Blue- and red-listed plant species habitat for Pacific Water Shrew (red- likely acceptable for minimizing effects on unlikely to be present along route. listed) in the Pacific Water Shrew fish. recovery strategy.
REPORT
References
Aquaterra. 2012. Phase 1 Park Plan Environmental Impact Assessment. Report prepared for LEES Associates Landscape Architects, Metro Vancouver, and the City of Surrey.
B.C. Ministry of Environment (MoE). 2010. Best Management Practices Guidelines for Pacific Water Shrew in Urban and Rural Areas. Prepared for the Pacific Water Shrew Recovery Team. Pp. 41.
B.C. Ministry of Environment (MoE). 2014. BC Species and Ecosystem Explorer. Online at. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/atrisk/toolintro.html
B.C. Ministry of Environment (MoE). 2015a. BC Conservation Data Centre (CDC). Online at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cdc
B.C. Ministry of Environment (MoE). 2015b. Fisheries Inventory – FISS Fish Distributions Report. Online at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fish/fiss/
B.C. Ministry of Environment (MoE). 2015c. Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory. Online at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/sei
B.C. Ministry of Environment (MoE). 2015d. Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping. Online at:. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/ecology/tem/manuals.html
Braun Geotechnical. 2011. Preliminary Geotechnical Report: Surrey Bend Park Improvements. 176th Street and 104th Ave, Surrey BC. Report prepared for the City of Surrey.
Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, Canadian Energy Pipeline Association and Canadian Gas Association. 2012. Pipeline Associated Watercourse Crossings. Prepared by TERA Environmental Consultants. Calgary, AB. Online at: http://www.cepa.com/library/publications/environment-and-safety
City of Surrey. 2014. Biodiversity Conservation Strategy. Online at: http://www.surrey.ca/city- services/11565.aspx.
Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). 2006. COSEWIC assessment and update status report on the Pacific Water Shrew Sorex bendirii in Canada. Ottawa, ON. 28 pp.
Enterprise Geoscience. 2010. Ecohydrological Overview of Surrey Bend Park, Surrey BC. Report prepared for the Greater Vancouver Regional District Golder Associates 2003. Foreshore Survey and Bank Condition Assessment: Parsons Channel, Barnston Island Surrey BC. Report prepared for the City of Surrey.
City of Surrey
Environmental Assessment Office (EAO). 2007. SFPR Discussion Paper- Burns Bog. Online at: http://a100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/epic/html/deploy/epic_project_home_196.html
Evely, A. 2015. Personal communication (e-mail to H. Robertson). Alison Evely, Natural Resource Management Specialist April 24, 2015.
Gorham, E. and L. Rochefort. 2003. Peatland restoration: A brief assessment with special reference to Sphagnum bogs. Wetland Ecology and Management. Volume 11, Issue 1-2, pp 109-119.
Howie, S.A., and I.T. Meerveld. 2011. The essential role of the lagg in raised bog function and restoration: A Review. Wetlands, 31: 613-622.
Kistritz, R.U., G.L. Porter, G. Radcliffe, and P.R.B. Ward. 1992. An Ecological Study of Surrey Bend. Report prepared for the Fraser River Management Program and the City of Surrey.
Levings, C,D. 1995. Distribution and feeding of juvenile Pacific salmon in freshwater tidal creeks of the lower Fraser River, British Columbia. Fisheries Management and Ecology, 2: 299-308.
Mendelssohn, I.A. et al. 2012. Oil Impacts on Coastal Wetlands: Implications for the Mississippi River Delta Ecosystem after the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. BioScience. 62 (6): 562-574.
Metro Vancouver and City of Surrey. 2010. Surrey Bend Regional Park (SBRP) Management Plan. Online at: http://www.bmn.bc.ca/assets/bmn/doc/SurreyBendPlan.pdf
Metro Vancouver. 2014. Sensitive Ecosystems Inventory for Metro Vancouver and Abbotsford 2010- 2012. Online at: http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/regional- planning/PlanningPublications/SEITechnicalReport.pdf
Ministry of Forests. 1991. Ecosystems of British Columbia. Compiled and edited by Del Meidinger and Jim Pojar. Research Branch, Ministry of Forests, Province of British Columbia, Victoria, BC. Pgs. 81- 93.Species at Risk Act. S.C. 2002, c. 29. Consolidated Statutes of Canada. Online at. http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/rco/research/eco/bec_web/docs/CWHdm.htm
Ministry of Transportation (MoT). 2006. South Fraser Perimeter Road: Vegetation and Wildlife Impact Assessment. Online at: http://a100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/epic/html/deploy/epic_document_196_22436.html .
Ministry of Transportation (MoT). 2006. South Fraser Perimeter Road: Fish Habitat Impact Assessment. Online at: http://a100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/epic/html/deploy/epic_document_196_22433.html
Ministry of Transportation (MoT). 2006. South Fraser Perimeter Road: Water Quality Impact Assessment. Prepared by Golder Associates Ltd. Online at: http://a100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/epic/html/deploy/epic_document_196_22435.html
References
National Wetlands Working Group. 1997. The Canadian Wetland Classification System. Second Edition: Volumes 4a, 4b, 4c, 6a, 6b, and 7. Edited by B.G. Warner and C.D.A. Rubec. Published by University of Waterloo Wetlands Research Centre.
Northwest Hydraulics. 2011. SBRP Foreshore Assessment. Report prepared for LEES Associates Landscape Architects and Metro Vancouver.
Rydin, H., and J. Jeglum. 2006. The Biology of Peatlands. Oxford University Press, Oxford NY.
Species at Risk Act (SARA). 2014. Recovery Strategy for the Pacific Water Shrew (Sorex bendirii) in Canada. Online at: http://www.sararegistry.gc.ca/document/default_e.cfm?documentID=1289
REPORT
Appendix A - Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory and Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping Results
A-1
¯
Mill
CN Railaway
Intermodal Yard
South Fraser Perimeter Road M A
1 3 : 1 0 : 1 1
/
5 1 0 2 / 1 / 5
/ d x m . M E T e t a n r e t l A Meters y e r r 0 100 200 300 400 500 u S
Proposed Alignment Proposed Alignment Footprint Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping PROJECT NO.: 2014-2798.000.000 MAP 1: TEM POLYGONS OF PROPOSED DATE: May 2015 AND ALTERNATE ALIGNMENTS Alternate Option A Alternate Option A Footprint Municipal Boundary DRAWN BY: DA City of Surrey Alternate Option B Alternate Option B Footprint Surrey Bend Regional Park Environmental Assessment
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South Fraser Perimeter Road M A
0 1 : 5 0 : 1 1
/
5 1 0 2 / 1 / 5
/ d x m . I E S e t a n r e t l A Meters y e r r 0 100 200 300 400 500 u S
Proposed Alignment Proposed Alignment Footprint Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory PROJECT NO.: 2014-2798.000.000 MAP 2: SEI OF PROPOSED AND DATE: May 2015 ALTERNATE ALIGNMENTS Alternate Option A Alternate Option A Footprint Municipal Boundary DRAWN BY: DA City of Surrey Alternate Option B Alternate Option B Footprint Surrey Bend Regional Park Environmental Assessment
REPORT
Appendix B - Query Results for B.C. Potential Species and Ecosystem and Species Explorer, and for B.C. Conservation Data Centre
B-1
Page 1 of 2
BC Conservation Data Centre: Occurrence Report ( 6466 ) February 19, 2015 Epitheca canis Beaverpond Baskettail Field definition document available at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/atrisk/ims.htm This is a summary report. For a complete record contact the CDC ([email protected]).
Identifiers
Occurrence ID: 4238 Status: Shape ID: 6466 Global: G5 Type: Invertebrate Animal Provinicial: S3 COSEWIC: BC List: Blue Taxonomic Class: insects SARA Schedule: Data Sensitive: N
Locators
Survey Site: TYNEHEAD, SURREY BEND REGIONAL PARK Directions: "Surrey Bend", SE corner near railroad tracks. The path goes north towards the river (Kenner 1996).
Survey Information
First Obs. Date: 1995-05-28 Last Obs. Date: 1996-07-08 Occurrence Data: 1996; Seen in ditch beside the path which goes north towards the river (Kenner 1996).
Occurrence Rank and Occurrence Rank Factors
Rank: Rank Date: Rank Comments: Condition of Occurrence Size of Occurrence: Landscape Context:
Description
General Description: Surrey Bend: 35% stream fen, 5% tidal freshwater marsh, 60% floodplain swamp. Vegetation: 45% hardwood, 30% tall shrubs, 5% forb, 10% grass, 3% low rush, 5% sedge and 2% non-vegetated (Kenner 1996). Vegetation Zone: Habitat: PALUSTRINE; BOG/FEN; FORESTED WETLAND; POND
Documentation
References: Kenner, R.D. 1996. Fraser Lowlands Dragonfly Survey 1996. 13pp. plus maps.
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Version Date: 02-FEB-99
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Mapping Information
Estimated Representation Accuracy: Confidence Extent: February 19, 2015
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BC Conservation Data Centre: Occurrence Report ( 8546 ) February 19, 2015 Acipenser transmontanus pop. 4 White Sturgeon (Lower Fraser River population) Field definition document available at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/atrisk/ims.htm This is a summary report. For a complete record contact the CDC ([email protected]).
Identifiers
Occurrence ID: 1543 Status: Shape ID: 8546 Global: G4T2 Type: Vertebrate Animal Provinicial: S2 COSEWIC: T (NOV 2012) BC List: Red Taxonomic Class: ray-finned fishes SARA Schedule: Data Sensitive: N
Locators
Survey Site: FRASER RIVER, MOUTH TO HELL'S GATE Directions: From the mouth of the Fraser River to Hell's Gate.
Survey Information
First Obs. Date: 1866-PRE Last Obs. Date: 2004 Occurrence Data: 2004 population estimated at approximately 60,000 fish between 40 cm and 220 cm with evidence of an increasing population over the 2000-2004 study period. Walters et al. (2005) indicates that the minimum estimate of abundance of 60 cm+ sturgeon is between 40,000 and 60,0000 individuals. Number of individuals of reproductive age (140 cm or larger) is estimated at about 9,000 based on continued mark-recapture studies (Nelson et al. 2004). Age and size composition data suggest relatively healthy numbers of older fish in the population that is either stable or increasing (Walters et al. 2005). Estimate of decline in abundance over the last 100 years, is over 50% (COSEWIC 2003). Sturgeon provided an important commercial fishery in the late 1800s and early 1900's; the annual harvest peaked at 517 tonnes and collapsed to 20 tonnes in 1905 due to overharvest (Echols 1995). The impact of the historical fishery varies depending on the interpretation of data available for the commercial sturgeon fishery (only total weight of landings was recorded). Under some scenarios using stock reduction analysis, Walters et al. (2005) were able to show that the numbers of fish removed may have been higher between 1960-80 due to interception in the commercial chinook gill net fishery; this is based on the assumption that the average size of the fish harvested in the early fishery was much greater than it was for those intercepted in the later salmon fishery.
Occurrence Rank and Occurrence Rank Factors
Rank: BC Good or fair estimated Rank Date: 2004 viability Rank Comments: Relatively large abundance that may be increasing as it recovers from over- harvest. However, this area is undergoing rapid growth and development. Condition of Occurrence Estimate of decline in abundance over the last 100 years, is over 50% (COSEWIC 2003). Sturgeon provided an important commercial fishery in the late 1800s and early 1900's; the annual harvest peaked at 517 tonnes
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and collapsed to 20 tonnes in 1905 due to overharvest (Echols 1995). The impact of the historical fishery varies depending on the interpretation of data available for the commercial sturgeon fishery (only total weight of landings was recorded). Under some scenarios using stock reduction analysis, Walters et al. (2005) were able to show that the numbers of fish removed may have been higher between 1960-80 due to interception in the commercial chinook gill net fishery; this is based on the assumption that the average size of the fish harvested in the early fishery was much greater than it was for those intercepted in the later salmon fishery. Catch data suggest the abundance of small fish (1-7 years) has been rapidly increasing since 2000; age and size composition data suggest relatively healthy numbers of older fish in the population that is either stable or increasing (Walters et al. 2005).
Major threats include: over-fishing; loss or degradation of habitat from the elimination of wetlands, dyking, channelization, dredging, gravel mining and contamination; poaching and by-catch in other fisheries. The emerging commercial aquaculture industry could have impacts, if it is not managed appropriately (concerns include facility placement and containment, security, access to wild broodstock or the importation of non-native stocks, and the possibility of masking and enhancing the market for illegally caught wild fish or their products (COSEWIC 2003). There is no direct evidence from the mark-recapture study of cumulative mortality due to repeated catch and release associated with the recreational fishery (Walters et al. 2005). Size of Occurrence: 2004 population estimated at approximately 60,000 fish between 40 cm and 220 cm with evidence of an increasing population over the 2000-2004 study period. Number of individuals of reproductive age (140 cm or larger) is estimated at about 9,000 (Maximum Likelihood Estimate) based on continued mark-recapture studies (Nelson et al. 2004). Walters et al. (2005) indicates that the minimum estimate of abundance of 60 cm+ sturgeon is between 40,000 and 60,0000 individuals. Area of Occupancy about 500 km2; Linear Distance of Occupancy about 211 km (COSEWIC 2003). Landscape Context: The surrounding area in the lower Fraser Valley is undergoing rapid growth and development.
Description
General Description: Habitat varies from a broad, shallow channel with cobble/gravel bars and islands, tight meanders within a broad valley with moderate velocities and depths, confined narrow channels with high velocities and turbulent, upwelling flows with exposed substrate, large boulders and rapids, lower velocity sections where depositional areas and large channel meanders predominate, to the lower section which has a low gradient braided channel with a prevalence of sidechannels, marshes and backwater sloughs (R.L. & L. Environmental Services 2000). In the lower section of the river Perrin et al. (1999, 2000) found evidence of spawning in sidechannels with substrates of gravel, cobble and sand; in the mainstem site boulder and cobble predominated; flows were mainly laminar with near-bed velocities averaging 1.7 m/s. Most eggs and larvae were collected at water depths between 3.0 and 4.5 m and at velocities of > 1.5 m/s for eggs, and 0.5 to 1.5 m/s for larvae. Juveniles (< 1 m in length) are often found in the lower reaches of tributaries, large backwaters, sidechannels and sloughs. Vegetation Zone: Habitat: RIVERINE: Big River; High Gradient; Low Gradient; Moderate Gradient; ESTUARINE: River Mouth; Tidal Flat
Documentation
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References: Brown, J.R., A.T. Beckenbach, and M.J. Smith. 1992. Influence of Pleistocene glaciations and human intervention upon mitochondrial DNA diversity in white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) populations. Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 49:358-367. COSEWIC. 2003e. COSEWIC assessment and update status report on the white sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus in Canada. Comm. on the Status of Endangered Wildl. in Can. Ottawa. vii+51pp. Lane, E.D. Personal communication. Malaspina College, Nanaimo, BC. Perrin, C.J., A. Heaton, and M.A. Laynes. 1999. White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) spawning habitat in the lower Fraser River, 1998. Report prepared by Limnotek Research and Development Inc. for BC Fisheries, Victoria, B.C. 53 pp. Perrin, C.J., A. Heaton, and M.A. Laynes. 2000. White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) spawning habitat in the lower Fraser River, 1999. Report prepared by Limnotek Research and Development Inc. for BC Fisheries, Victoria, B.C. 72 pp. Pollard, S. 2000. Fraser River white sturgeon genetic results - Implications to stock structure. Unpubl. rep. prepared for B.C. Fish., Conserv. Sect., Victoria, BC. 4pp. R. L. & L. Environmental Services Ltd. 2000b. Fraser River white sturgeon monitoring program region 7 (Omineca-Peace) 1999 data report. Prepared for B.C. Fish., Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks. 32pp. +append. Rosenau, M. Personal communication. Semakula, S.N., and P.A. Larkin. 1968. Age, growth, food, and yield of the white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) of the Fraser River, British Columbia. J. Fish. Res. Board Can. 25:2589-2602. Swiatkiewicz, V.J. 1989. Lower Fraser River white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) studies from 1985-1987. Reg.l Fish. Rep. No. LM209, B.C. Minist. Environ., Surrey. University of British Columbia. Dep. Bot., Dep. Zool., Biol. Sci. Bldg., 6270 Univ. Blvd., Vancouver, BC.
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Version Date: 11-JUL-07
Mapping Information
Estimated Representation Low Accuracy: Confidence Extent: N February 19, 2015
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BC Conservation Data Centre: Occurrence Report ( 3666 ) February 19, 2015 Glyceria leptostachya slender-spiked mannagrass Field definition document available at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/atrisk/ims.htm This is a summary report. For a complete record contact the CDC ([email protected]).
Identifiers
Occurrence ID: 931 Status: Shape ID: 3666 Global: G3 Type: Vascular Plant Provinicial: S2S3 COSEWIC: BC List: Blue Taxonomic Class: monocots SARA Schedule: Data Sensitive: N
Locators
Survey Site: SURREY, 104 AVENUE/176 STREET, NEAR RAILROAD TRACKS Directions:
Survey Information
First Obs. Date: 1991-08-03 Last Obs. Date: 1991-08-03 Occurrence Data: Growing in shallow ditch, in moist dredged sand, 1 large plant.
Occurrence Rank and Occurrence Rank Factors
Rank: E Verified extant (viability Rank Date: 1991-08-03 not assessed) Rank Comments: There is insufficient data to assign a viability rank. Condition of Occurrence Size of Occurrence: Landscape Context:
Description
General Description: Vegetation Zone: Lowland Habitat: TERRESTRIAL; ROADSIDE
Documentation
References: University of British Columbia. Dep. Bot., Dep. Zool., Biol. Sci. Bldg., 6270 Univ. Blvd., Vancouver, BC.
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Version Date: 06-DEC-93
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BC Conservation Data Centre: Occurrence Report ( 25084 ) February 19, 2015 Sorex bendirii Pacific Water Shrew Field definition document available at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/atrisk/ims.htm This is a summary report. For a complete record contact the CDC ([email protected]).
Identifiers
Occurrence ID: 6597 Status: Shape ID: 25084 Global: G4 Type: Vertebrate Animal Provinicial: S1S2 COSEWIC: E (APR 2006) BC List: Red Taxonomic Class: mammals SARA Schedule: 1 Data Sensitive: N
Locators
Survey Site: SURREY, FRASER HEIGHTS Directions: Approx. 300 m north of the intersection of 108th Ave. and 168th St. in Surrey; polygon approx. 1 km S of the Fraser River, point 100 m south of river (just south of Douglas Island).
Survey Information
First Obs. Date: 2003-10-21 Last Obs. Date: 2009-09-20 Occurrence Data: 2009: two more captures of Pacific Water Shrews were documented in September, both were released nearby at the pre-determined release site which is within the polygon (C. Lee, pers. comm. 2009). And, one Pacific Water Shrew videotaped swimming and walking on water (G. Ferguson, pers. comm. 2009). 2007: A (juvenile?) Pacific Water Shrew died in a minnow trap (M. McArthur, pers. comm. 2007). 2003: 1 adult(?) specimen collected from a forested slough - storm sewer outflow from a residential neighbourhood (K.A. McIntosh, pers. comm.).
Occurrence Rank and Occurrence Rank Factors
Rank: CD Fair or poor estimated Rank Date: 2009-09-20 viability Rank Comments: Population has been found repeatedly between 2003-2009 but only sampled because site is under threat from development. Condition of Occurrence Storm sewers from both the railyard and the housing development terminate in the slough (K.A. McIntosh, pers. comm.). Threats to site: Ministry of Transportation and Highways Gateway project, South Fraser Perimeter Road may require some infilling in this area. Also the City of Surrey sewer main construction project happening on this site. The new sewer has an above-ground crossing over the ditch where the "Fraser Heights 2" Pacific Water Shrew was captured (M. McArthur, pers. comm. 2007). Size of Occurrence: One Pacific Water Shrew observed in 2003, another died in a minnow trap
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1.5 km away in 2007 (M. McArthur, pers. comm. 2007) and one observation (videotaped; G. Ferguson, pers. comm. 2009) and two more captures were documented in September 2009, both captures were released nearby at the pre-determined release site which is within the polygon (C. Lee, pers. comm. 2009). Landscape Context: The slough is contained by residential development to the south and west and the CN intermodal yard to the north and east (K.A. McIntosh, pers. comm.).
Description
General Description: The forested slough (drainage ditch) is in the Very Dry Maritime Coastal Western Hemlock Zone (CWHxm); vegetation includes reed canary grass, salmonberry, vine maple and red alder. Residential development is to the south and west of the occurrence and the CN Intermodal yard is to the north and east; the Fraser River is 1 km to the north (K.A. McIntosh, pers. comm.). "Fraser Heights 2": Habitat description: wetted width of 2 m, max channel depth: 40 cm. Cover type: red alder and mixed coniferous forest. In stream vegetation: bulrushes. Channel substrate: soft bottom with large woody debris (M. McArthur, pers. comm. 2007). PKI Ditch is a seasonal drainage ditch that receives input from rainwater, historical detention/water quality ponds to the south, and run-off from surrounding roadside ditches. It is hydraulically connected to SF Perimeter ditch to the north. PKI Ditch discharges into the wetland area to the west, which in turn drains into Centre Creek (Watershed Code: 100-029000). Prior to discharging into the wetland, it confluences with an upstream reach of Centre Creek (the designated release location; L. Kovics, pers. comm. 2009). The release site is adjacent to the reach of Centre Creek located immediately north of 104 Avenue. To the south of the release site, is a large pond complex (the result of beaver activity) with abundant coarse woody debris. In August 2009, Kiewit-Flatiron personnel responded to the BC Ministry of Environment (MoE), which was seeking clarification regarding the proposed release site prior to wildlife permit issuance. Specifically, Kiewit-Flatiron noted that Gebauer & Associates had recommended the proposed release site as it contains suitable habitat and is directly connected to PKI Ditch, the wetland, and Centre Creek to the north of the wetland area (currently isolated via trenched exclusion fencing). Moreover, the proposed release site is well outside the construction footprint, while remaining in close proximity to the trap locations, thereby minimizing holding time and associated stress on captured animals following processing (C. Lee, pers. comm. 2009). Vegetation Zone: Habitat: PALUSTRINE: Ditch; TERRESTRIAL: Forest Mixed
Documentation
References: Ferguson, Greg. Personal communication. Canadian Wildlife Service, Species at Risk Recovery Unit, 401 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC. Lee, C. Personal communication. AquaTerra Biological Consulting/Gebauer & Associates Ltd. McArthur, M. Personal communication. Environmental Scientist, Triton Environmental Consultants Ltd. McIntosh, K.A. 2004. Personal communication. Robertson Environmental Services, Langley, BC. Pacific Water Shrew Recovery Team. 2010. Preliminary partial critical habitat identification for Pacific Water Shew (Sorex bendirii)-DRAFT. 38 pp.
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Version
Version Date: 09-OCT-12
Mapping Information
Estimated Representation Medium Accuracy: Confidence Extent: N February 19, 2015
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Table B-1 Species Explorer Plant Query
Scientific English Name Global Prov COSEWIC BC Prov Name Name Status Status List Category
Alopecurus Carolina G5 S2 Red Vascular Plant carolinianus meadow-foxtail
Alsia californica G4 S3 Blue Nonvascular Plant
Amblystegium G5 S2S4 Blue Nonvascular varium Plant
Anagallis minima chaffweed G5 S3 Blue Vascular Plant
Brachythecium GU S2S3 Blue Nonvascular holzingeri Plant
Brotherella roellii Roell's G3 S1S2 E (Nov 2010) Red Nonvascular brotherella Plant
Bryum G5? S2S3 Blue Nonvascular schleicheri Plant
Callicladium G5 S3? Blue Nonvascular haldanianum Plant
Callitriche two-edged G5T5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant heterophylla var. water-starwort heterophylla
Carex interrupta green-fruited G4 S2 Red Vascular Plant sedge
Claytonia Washington G2G4 S2 Red Vascular Plant washingtoniana springbeauty
Cuscuta field dodder G5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant campestris
Diphyscium G5 S2S3 Blue Nonvascular foliosum Plant
Discelium G3G4 S1 Red Nonvascular nudum Plant
Elatine rubella three-flowered G5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant waterwort
Eleocharis small spike-rush G5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant parvula
Eleocharis beaked spike- G5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant rostellata rush
Elodea nuttallii Nuttall's G5 S3 Blue Vascular Plant waterweed
Scientific English Name Global Prov COSEWIC BC Prov Name Name Status Status List Category
Erigeron salt marsh G5T1 S1 Red Vascular Plant philadelphicus Philadelphia var. glaber fleabane
Fissidens poor pocket G3? S1 E (May 2011) Red Nonvascular pauperculus moss Plant
Fissidens GU S2S3 Blue Nonvascular ventricosus Plant
Glyceria slender-spiked G3 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant leptostachya mannagrass
Helenium mountain G5T3T5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant autumnale var. sneezeweed grandiflorum
Hygrohypnum G4G5 S3 Blue Nonvascular alpinum Plant
Hypericum western St. G5T3T5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant scouleri ssp. John's-wort nortoniae
Isoetes nuttallii Nuttall's quillwort G4? S3 Blue Vascular Plant
Juncus short-tailed rush G5 S1 Red Vascular Plant brevicaudatus
Juncus oxymeris pointed rush G5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant
Lilaea scilloides flowering G5? S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant quillwort
Lindernia dubia false-pimpernel G5T4 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant var. anagallidea
Lindernia dubia yellowseed false G5T5 S1 Red Vascular Plant var. dubia pimpernel
Lupinus rivularis streambank G2G4 S1 E (Nov 2002) Red Vascular Plant lupine
Myriophyllum western water- G5 S3 Blue Vascular Plant hippuroides milfoil
Myriophyllum green parrot's- G5 S1 Red Vascular Plant pinnatum feather
Myriophyllum Ussurian water- G3 S3 Blue Vascular Plant ussuriense milfoil
Navarretia needle-leaved G5TNR S2 Red Vascular Plant intertexta navarretia
Orthotrichum G4G5 S2S3 Blue Nonvascular cupulatum Plant
Scientific English Name Global Prov COSEWIC BC Prov Name Name Status Status List Category
Physcomitrium G4 S1 Red Nonvascular immersum Plant
Platyhypnidium G4 S3? Blue Nonvascular riparioides Plant
Pleuropogon nodding G4 S3 Blue Vascular Plant refractus semaphoregrass
Pohlia cardotii G2G3 S2 Red Nonvascular Plant
Ptychomitrium G4 S3 Blue Nonvascular gardneri Plant
Rubus nivalis snow bramble G4? S3? Blue Vascular Plant
Rupertia California-tea G4 S3 Blue Vascular Plant physodes
Sidalcea Henderson's G3 S3 Blue Vascular Plant hendersonii checker-mallow
Sphagnum G5 S3 Blue Nonvascular contortum Plant
Verbena hastata blue vervain G5T5 S2S3 Blue Vascular Plant var. scabra
Wolffia borealis northern water- G5 S2 Red Vascular Plant meal Search Criteria: Search Type: Plants & Animals AND Species Groups: Vascular Plants AND MOE regions: 2- Lower AND Regional Districts: Metro AND BGC Zone: CWH Sort Order: Scientific Name
Table B-2 BC Species Explorer Animal Query
Scientific Name English Name Species Global Prov COSEWIC BC List Class (English) Code Status Status
Accipiter gentilis laingi Northern Goshawk, B-NOGO-LA G5T2 S2B T (Apr 2013) Red birds laingi subspecies
Acipenser medirostris Green Sturgeon F-ACME G3 S1N SC (Nov 2013) Red ray-finned fishes
Acipenser transmontanus White Sturgeon F-ACTR G4 S2 E (Nov 2003) No Status ray-finned fishes
Acipenser transmontanus pop. 4 White Sturgeon (Lower F-ACTR-04 G4T2 S2 T (Nov 2012) Red ray-finned fishes Fraser River population)
Actinemys marmorata Western Pond Turtle R-ACMA G3G4 SX XT (May 2012) Red turtles
Allogona townsendiana Oregon Forestsnail IM-ALLTOW G3G4 S1S2 E (Apr 2013) Red gastropods
Anaxyrus boreas Western Toad A-ANBO G4 S3S4 SC (Nov 2012) Blue amphibians
Aplodontia rufa Mountain Beaver M-APRU G5 S4 SC (May 2012) Yellow mammals
Ardea herodias fannini Great Blue Heron, B-GBHE-FA G5T4 S2S3B,S4N SC (Mar 2008) Blue birds fannini subspecies
Argia emma Emma's Dancer IO-ARGEMM G5 S3S4 Blue insects
Ascaphus truei Coastal Tailed Frog A-ASTR G4 S3S4 SC (Nov 2011) Blue amphibians
Asio flammeus Short-eared Owl B-SEOW G5 S3B,S2N SC (Mar 2008) Blue birds
Botaurus lentiginosus American Bittern B-AMBI G4 S3B Blue birds
Brachyramphus marmoratus Marbled Murrelet B-MAMU G3 S3B,S3N T (May 2012) Blue birds
Buteo lagopus Rough-legged Hawk B-RLHA G5 S2S3N NAR (May Blue birds 1995)
Butorides virescens Green Heron B-GRHE G5 S3S4B Blue birds
Callophrys eryphon sheltonensis Western Pine Elfin, IL-CALERY- G5TNR S3 Blue insects sheltonensis subspecies SH
Callophrys johnsoni Johnson's Hairstreak IL-CALJOH G3G4 S1S2 Red insects
Carychium occidentale Western Thorn IM-CAROCC G3G4 S2S3 Blue gastropods
Catostomus sp. 4 Salish Sucker F-CASP-04 G1 S1 T (Nov 2012) Red ray-finned fishes
Charina bottae Northern Rubber Boa R-CHBO G5 S4 SC (May 2003) Yellow reptiles
Chordeiles minor Common Nighthawk B-CONI G5 S4B T (Apr 2007) Yellow birds
Chrysemys picta Painted Turtle R-CHPI G5 S3 E/SC (Apr No Status turtles 2006)
Chrysemys picta pop. 1 Painted Turtle - Pacific R-CHPI-01 G5T2 S2 E (Apr 2006) Red turtles Coast Population
Contopus cooperi Olive-sided Flycatcher B-OSFL G4 S3S4B T (Nov 2007) Blue birds
Corynorhinus townsendii Townsend's Big-eared M-COTO G3G4 S3 Blue mammals Bat
Cryptomastix devia Puget Oregonian IM-CRYDEV G3 SX XT (Apr 2013) Red gastropods
Danaus plexippus Monarch IL-DANPLE G5 S3B SC (Apr 2010) Blue insects
Dendragapus fuliginosus Sooty Grouse B-SOGR G5 S3S4 Blue birds
Epargyreus clarus Silver-spotted Skipper IL-EPACLA G5 S3 Blue insects
Epargyreus clarus californicus Silver-spotted Skipper, IL-EPACLA- G5TNR SH Red insects californicus subspecies CA
Epitheca canis Beaverpond Baskettail IO-EPICAN G5 S3 Blue insects
Euphyes vestris Dun Skipper IL-EUPVES G5 S2 T (Apr 2013) Red insects
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon B-PEFA G4 S3B SC (Apr 2007) No Status birds
Falco peregrinus anatum Peregrine Falcon, B-PEFA-AN G4T4 S2?B SC (Apr 2007) Red birds anatum subspecies
Grus canadensis Sandhill Crane B-SACR G5 S4B NAR (May Yellow birds 1979)
Gulo gulo Wolverine M-GUGU G4 S3 SC (May 2014) No Status mammals
Gulo gulo luscus Wolverine, luscus M-GUGU-LU G4T4 S3 SC (May 2014) Blue mammals subspecies
Haliotis kamtschatkana Northern Abalone IM-HALKAM G3G4 S2 T (May 2000) Red gastropods
Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow B-BASW G5 S3S4B T (May 2011) Blue birds
Hydroprogne caspia Caspian Tern B-CATE G5 S3B NAR (May Blue birds 1999)
Lepus americanus washingtonii Snowshoe Hare, M-LEAM-WA G5T3T5 S1 Red mammals washingtonii subspecies
Megascops kennicottii Western Screech-Owl B-WSOW G5 S4 T (May 2012) No Status birds
Megascops kennicottii kennicottii Western Screech-Owl, B-WSOW-KE G5T4 S3 T (May 2012) Blue birds kennicottii subspecies
Monadenia fidelis Pacific Sideband IM-MONFID G4G5 S3S4 Blue gastropods
Mustela frenata altifrontalis Long-tailed weasel, M-MUFR-AL G5TNR SH Red mammals altifrontalis subspecies
Myodes gapperi occidentalis Southern Red-backed M-MYGA-OC G5T5 S1 Red mammals Vole, occidentalis subspecies
Myotis keenii Keen's Myotis M-MYKE G2G3 S2S3 DD (Nov 2003) Blue mammals
Myotis lucifugus Little Brown Myotis M-MYLU G3 S4 E (Nov 2013) Yellow mammals
Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night- B-BCNH G5 S1 Red birds heron
Octogomphus specularis Grappletail IO-OCTSPE G4 S2 Red insects
Omus audouini Audouin's Night-stalking IC-OMUAUD G5 S1 T (Nov 2013) Red insects Tiger Beetle
Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii Cutthroat Trout, clarkii F-ONCL-CL G4T4 S3S4 Blue ray-finned fishes subspecies
Oncorhynchus kisutch Coho Salmon F-ONKI G4 S4 E (May 2002) Yellow ray-finned fishes
Pachydiplax longipennis Blue Dasher IO-PACLON G5 S3S4 Blue insects
Parnassius clodius claudianus Clodius Parnassian, IL-PARCLO- G5TNR S3S4 Blue insects claudianus subspecies CL
Patagioenas fasciata Band-tailed Pigeon B-BTPI G4 S3S4B SC (Nov 2008) Blue birds
Phalacrocorax auritus Double-crested B-DCCO G5 S3S4B NAR (May Blue birds Cormorant 1978)
Progne subis Purple Martin B-PUMA G5 S2S3B Blue birds
Prophysaon vanattae Scarletback Taildropper IM-PROVAN G4 S3S4 Blue gastropods
Rana aurora Northern Red-legged A-RAAU G4 S3S4 SC (Nov 2004) Blue amphibians Frog
Rana pretiosa Oregon Spotted Frog A-RAPR G2 S1 E (May 2011) Red amphibians
Rhinichthys cataractae - Nooksack Dace F-RHCA-CH G3 S1 E (Apr 2007) Red ray-finned fishes Chehalis lineage
Salvelinus confluentus Bull Trout F-SACO G4 S3S4 SC (Nov 2012) Blue ray-finned fishes
Sorex bendirii Pacific Water Shrew M-SOBE G4 S1S2 E (Apr 2006) Red mammals
Sorex rohweri Olympic Shrew M-SORO G4G5 S1S2 Red mammals
Sorex trowbridgii Trowbridge's Shrew M-SOTR G5 S3 Blue mammals
Speyeria zerene bremnerii Zerene Fritillary, IL-SPEZER- G5T3T4 S2 Red insects bremnerii subspecies BR
Sphaerium patella Rocky Mountain IM-SPHPAT G5 SH Red bivalves Fingernailclam
Spirinchus sp. 1 Pygmy Longfin Smelt F-SPSP-01 G1Q S1S2 DD (Nov 2004) Red ray-finned fishes
Strix occidentalis Spotted Owl B-SPOW G3G4 S1 E (Mar 2008) Red birds
Sympetrum vicinum Autumn Meadowhawk IO-SYMVIC G5 S3S4 Blue insects
Tanypteryx hageni Black Petaltail IO-TANHAG G4 S3 Blue insects
Thaleichthys pacificus Eulachon F-THPA G5 S2S3 E/T (May 2011) Blue ray-finned fishes
Tyto alba Barn Owl B-BNOW G5 S3 T (Nov 2010) Blue birds
Ursus arctos Grizzly Bear M-URAR G4 S3 SC (May 2002) Blue mammals
Zonitoides nitidus Black Gloss IM-ZONNIT G5 S3S4 Blue gastropods Search Criteria: Search Type: Animal AND MOE Regions:2- Lower Mainland (Restricted to Red, Blue, and Legally designated species) AND Regional Districts: Metro Vancouver (MVRD) (Restricted to Red, Blue, and Legally designated species) Sort Order: Scientific Name Ascending
Table B-3 BC Ecosystem Explorer Query
Scientific Name English Name Global Prov Status BC Prov List Status
Carex lasiocarpa - Rhynchospora alba slender sedge - G2 S2 Red white beak-rush
Carex sitchensis - Oenanthe sarmentosa Sitka sedge - Pacific G3 S3 Blue water-parsley
Myrica gale / Carex sitchensis sweet gale / Sitka G3 S2 Red sedge
Picea sitchensis / Rubus spectabilis Dry Sitka spruce / G1G2 S1S2 Red salmonberry Dry
Picea sitchensis / Rubus spectabilis Very Sitka spruce / G3 S2 Red Dry Maritime salmonberry Very Dry Maritime
Pinus contorta / Sphagnum spp. Very lodgepole pine / GNR S3 Blue Dry Maritime peat-mosses Very Dry Maritime
Populus trichocarpa - Alnus rubra / black cottonwood - GNR S3 Blue Rubus spectabilis red alder / salmonberry
Populus trichocarpa / Salix sitchensis black cottonwood / GNR S2S3 Blue Sitka willow
Pseudotsuga menziesii / Mahonia Douglas-fir / dull G2 S2 Red nervosa Oregon-grape
Pseudotsuga menziesii - Pinus contorta / Douglas-fir - G2G3 S2 Red Holodiscus discolor / Cladina spp. lodgepole pine / oceanspray / reindeer lichens
Pseudotsuga menziesii - Pinus contorta / Douglas-fir - GNR S2 Red Racomitrium canescens lodgepole pine / grey rock-moss
Pseudotsuga menziesii / Polystichum Douglas-fir / sword G2G4 S2S3 Blue munitum fern
Pseudotsuga menziesii - Tsuga Douglas-fir - western G3G4 S2S3 Blue heterophylla / Gaultheria shallon Dry hemlock / salal Dry Maritime Maritime
Rhododendron groenlandicum / Kalmia Labrador-tea / G4 S3 Blue microphylla / Sphagnum spp. western bog-laurel / peat-mosses
Schoenoplectus acutus Deep Marsh hard-stemmed G5 S3 Blue bulrush Deep Marsh
Selaginella wallacei / Cladina spp. Wallace's selaginella GNR S3 Blue / reindeer lichens
Sidalcea hendersonii Tidal Marsh Henderson's G1 S1 Red checker-mallow Tidal Marsh
Thuja plicata / Carex obnupta western redcedar / GNR S2S3 Blue slough sedge
Thuja plicata / Lonicera involucrata western redcedar / GNR S1 Red black twinberry
Thuja plicata - Picea sitchensis / western redcedar - G3? S3? Blue Lysichiton americanus Sitka spruce / skunk cabbage
Thuja plicata / Polystichum munitum Dry western redcedar / G2G3 S2S3 Blue Maritime sword fern Dry Maritime
Thuja plicata / Polystichum munitum western redcedar / GNR S2S3 Blue Very Dry Maritime sword fern Very Dry Maritime
Thuja plicata / Rubus spectabilis western redcedar / GNR S1S2 Red salmonberry
Thuja plicata / Tiarella trifoliata Dry western redcedar / G3 S2S3 Blue Maritime three-leaved foamflower Dry Maritime
Thuja plicata / Tiarella trifoliata Very Dry western redcedar / G3 S2S3 Blue Maritime three-leaved foamflower Very Dry Maritime
Tsuga heterophylla / Buckiella undulata western hemlock / G3G4 S2S3 Blue flat-moss
Tsuga heterophylla - Pseudotsuga western hemlock - G3G4 S2 Red menziesii / Eurhynchium oreganum Douglas-fir / Oregon beaked-moss
Tsuga heterophylla - Thuja plicata / western hemlock - G2G3 S2 Red Blechnum spicant western redcedar / deer fern
Typha latifolia Marsh common cattail G5 S3 Blue Marsh Search Criteria: Search Type: Ecological Communities AND BC Conservation Status: Red (Extirpated, Endangered, or Threatened) OR Blue (Special Concern) AND MOE Regions:2- Lower Mainland AND Municipalities: Surrey AND BGC Zone, Subzone, Variant, Phase: CWHdm, CWHxm1 AND Ecosections: FRL Sort Order: Scientific Name Ascending
Table C-2 Potentially Provincially and Federally Listed Species at Risk to Occur within SBRP
Animals Status Plants Status
1 American bittern Blue 1 False pimpernel Blue
2 Autumn meadowhawk Blue 2 Mountain sneezeweed Blue
3 Autumn meadowlark Blue 3 Nutall's waterweed Blue
4 Band-tailed pigeon Blue 4 Slender spiked-mannagrass Blue
5 Barn owl Blue, SC 5 Small fruited willowherb Blue
6 Barn swallow Blue 6 Streambank lupine Red, EN
7 Beaverpond Baskettail Blue 7 Vancouver Island beggarticks Blue, SC
8 Black petaltail Blue 8 Western St. John’s wort Blue
9 Blue dasher Blue
10 Coastal cuthroat trout Blue
11 Common nighthawk TH
12 Great blue heron Blue, SC
13 Green Heron Blue
14 Monarch butterfly Blue, SC
15 Northern red-legged frog Blue
16 Olive-sided flycatcher Blue, TH
17 Oregon forestsnail Red, EN
18 Pacific sideband Blue
19 Pacific water shrew Red, EN
20 Peregrene falcon Red, SC
21 Rubber boa SC
22 Short-eared owl Blue, SC
23 Snowshoe hare Red
24 Throwbridge's shrew Blue
25 Townsend's big-eared bat Blue
26 Western pondhawk Blue
27 Western screech owl Blue, SC
28 Western toad SC
27 White sturgeon Red, EN
REPORT
Appendix C - Wildlife Observations in Study Area
C-1
Table C-1 Species found within SBRP with Habitat in the Proposed Route
Mammals Birds Fish Other
American beaver (AKSF) American goldfinch (KB) Black crappie (S) Robust lancetooth (A) American mink (AKS) American robin (AKB) Brassy minnow (S) Bananaslug (A) Black tailed deer (ASF) American widgeon (K) Leopard dace (S) Beverpond baskettail (KC) Coast mole (AS) Bald eagle (A) Brown catfish (S) Blue dasher (A) Coyote (AKS) Band-tailed pigeon (B) Carp (S) Blue-eyed darner (A) Douglas squirrel (AS) Barn swallow (AK) Cutthroat trout (A) Blue-eyed dasher (K) Eastern cottontail (AK) Black-capped chickadee (AKB) Long nosed dace (S) Cabbage white (A) Ermine (A) Belted kingfisher (A) Northern pike minnow Common whitetail (K) Muskrat (AKSF) Bewick’s wren (B) (S) Eight-spotted skimmer (A) North American Black-headed grosbeak(K) Peamouth chub (S) Four spotted skimmer (K) deermouse (S) Bushtit (KB) Prickly sculpin (S) Garter snake(AF) North American river otter Canada Goose (B) Redside shiner (S) Green frog (A) (KS) Chestnut backed chickadee (K) Starry flounder (S) Grovesnail (A) Pacific water shrew (C) Cedar waxwing (AK) Three-spined Long toed or northwestern Raccoon (AKS) Cinnamon teal (K) stickleback (S) salamander (A) Roughed grouse (K) Cliff swallow (K) Juvenile Salmon Noctuid moth (A) Striped skunk (S) Cooper’s hawk (AKB) (Chum, Chinook, Coho, Pacific forktail (K) Townsends vole (S) Common raven (AKB) Sockeye) (AKS) Red admiral (A) Vagrant shrew (S) Common yellowthroat Steelhead trout (A) Red-legged frog (A) Double-crested-cormorant (A) Shadow darner (A) Dark eyed juno (AB) Swift forktail (K) Downy woodpecker (A) Tiger swallowtail (A) Evening grosbeak (B) Variegated meadowhawk Greater yellowlegs (S) (A) Greater white fronted goose (A) Woodland skipper (A) Great blue heron (KB) Green winged teal (KB) House finch (AFB) Lincoln’s sparrow (AF) Mallard (KB) Marsh wren (AKB) Mourning dove (K) Northern flicker (KB) Northern harrier (KB) Northern saw-whet owl (A) Northern shrike (A) Northwestern crow (K) Killdeer (S) Lesser yellow-legs (S) Pacific wren (AB)
Mammals Birds Fish Other
Peregrine falcon (B) Pileated woodpecker (KB) Pine siskin (B) Purple finch (K) Rock dove (K) Red-tailed hawk (KF) Roughed Grouse (AK) Red-winged blackbird (A) Savannas sparrow (K) Short Eared Owl (B) Song sparrow (AKB) Spotted sandpiper (AK) Spotted towhee (AKB) Stellar’s jay (KB) Swainson’s thrush (AK) Tree swallow (K) Varied thrush (AB) Violet-green swallow (K) Willow flycatcher (K) Wilsons snipe (B) Wood duck (A) Yellow warbler (K)
C- Observed historically and registered in the CDC K- Observed or incidentals in Kistritz 1992 study E- Observed or incidentals in Enterprise 2010 study S- Observed or incidentals in Surrey Bend Management Plan 2010 A- Observed or incidentals in Aquaterra 2012 study B- Observed in EBB Environmental Consulting 2012 study F- Observed or incidentals in 2015 field reconnaissance Blue listed species Red listed species
Appendix C Species found within SBRP with Habitat in the Proposed Route
Mammals Birds Fish Other
American beaver (AKSF) American goldfinch (KB) Black crappie (S) Robust lancetooth (A) American mink (AKS) American robin (AKB) Brassy minnow (S) Bananaslug (A) Black tailed deer (ASF) American widgeon (K) Leopard dace (S) Beverpond baskettail (KC) Coast mole (AS) Bald eagle (A) Brown catfish (S) Blue dasher (A) Coyote (AKS) Band-tailed pigeon (B) Carp (S) Blue-eyed darner (A) Douglas squirrel (AS) Barn swallow (AK) Cutthroat trout (A) Blue-eyed dasher (K) Eastern cottontail (AK) Black-capped chickadee (AKB) Long nosed dace (S) Cabbage white (A) Ermine (A) Belted kingfisher (A) Northern pike minnow Common whitetail (K) Muskrat (AKSF) Bewick’s wren (B) (S) Eight-spotted skimmer (A) North American Black-headed grosbeak(K) Peamouth chub (S) Four spotted skimmer (K) deermouse (S) Bushtit (KB) Prickly sculpin (S) Garter snake(AF) North American river otter Canada Goose (B) Redside shiner (S) Green frog (A) (KS) Chestnut backed chickadee (K) Starry flounder (S) Grovesnail (A) Pacific water shrew (C) Cedar waxwing (AK) Three-spined Long toed or northwestern Raccoon (AKS) Cinnamon teal (K) stickleback (S) salamander (A) Roughed grouse (K) Cliff swallow (K) Juvenile Salmonids Noctuid moth (A) Striped skunk (S) Cooper’s hawk (AKB) (Chum, Chinook, Coho, Pacific forktail (K) Townsends vole (S) Common raven (AKB) Sockeye) (AKS) Red admiral (A) Vagrant shrew (S) Common yellowthroat Steelhead trout (A) Red-legged frog (A) Double-crested-cormorant (A) Shadow darner (A) Dark eyed juno (AB) Swift forktail (K) Downy woodpecker (A) Tiger swallowtail (A) Evening grosbeak (B) Variegated meadowhawk Greater yellowlegs (S) (A) Greater white fronted goose (A) Woodland skipper (A) Great blue heron (KB) Green winged teal (KB) House finch (AFB) Lincoln’s sparrow (AF) Mallard (KB) Marsh wren (AKB) Mourning dove (K) Northern flicker (KB) Northern harrier (KB) Northern saw-whet owl (A) Northern shrike (A) Northwestern crow (K) Killdeer (S) Lesser yellow-legs (S) Pacific wren (AB)
Mammals Birds Fish Other
Peregrine falcon (B) Pileated woodpecker (KB) Pine siskin (B) Purple finch (K) Rock dove (K) Red-tailed hawk (KF) Roughed Grouse (AK) Red-winged blackbird (A) Savannas sparrow (K) Short Eared Owl (B) Song sparrow (AKB) Spotted sandpiper (AK) Spotted towhee (AKB) Stellar’s jay (KB) Swainson’s thrush (AK) Tree swallow (K) Varied thrush (AB) Violet-green swallow (K) Willow flycatcher (K) Wilsons snipe (B) Wood duck (A) Yellow warbler (K)
C- Observed historically and registered in the CDC K- Observed or incidentals in Kistritz 1992 study E- Observed or incidentals in Enterprise 2010 study S- Observed or incidentals in Surrey Bend Management Plan 2010 A- Observed or incidentals in Aquaterra 2012 study B- Observed in EBB Environmental Consulting 2012 study F- Observed or incidentals in 2015 field reconnaissance Blue listed species Red listed species
REPORT
Appendix D - Stream Habitat Mapping of Proposed and Alternate Routes
D-1
¯
Mill
CN Railaway
Intermodal Yard
South Fraser Perimeter Road M A
9 3 : 4 4 : 0 1
/
5 1 0 2 / 1 / 5
/ d x m . s m a e r t s h s i f e t a n r e t l A Meters y e r r 0 100 200 300 400 500 u S
Proposed Alignment Proposed Alignment Footprint Stream Sensitivity Class B PROJECT NO.: 2014-2798.000.000 APPENDIX D: FISH HABITAT OF PROPOSED DATE: May 2015 AND ALTERNATE ALIGNMENTS A Alternate Option A Alternate Option A Footprint C DRAWN BY: DA City of Surrey Alternate Option B Alternate Option B Footprint AO UN Surrey Bend Regional Park Environmental Assessment