decommissioning plan report sumac ridge wind...

Decommissioning Plan Report

Sumac Ridge Wind Project Submission to: Ministry of the Environment Renewable Energy Approval Unit 2 St. Clair Avenue West, Flr 12A Toronto, ON M4V 1L5 Attention: Doris Dumais On Behalf of: wpd Canada Khlaire Parré Director of Renewable Energy Approvals 2233 Argentia Rd. Suite 102 Mississauga, ON; L5N 2X7 905-813-8400 x 112 [email protected] Contact: Leah Deveaux Environmental Assessment Specialist ORTECH Environmental

Phone: (905) 822-4120, ext.305 Fax: (905) 855-0406 E-mail: [email protected]

Project No.: 90791 9 pages Date: June, 2012

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Ortech Environmental is the original author of the Sumac Ridge Project Description Report. Unless referenced in the Table of Report Updates below, all report information is written by Ortech Environmental Table of Report Updates

Date Editor Section Update Description June 22, 2012 Stantec Section 1.1 clarification around 44kV

connection line placement June 20, 2012 wpd Canada n/a The “Draft” watermark on all

pages of the report have been removed.

June 20, 2012 wpd Canada Title Page Deleted “Draft” from title page.

ORTECH Environmental

Decommissioning Plan Report Sumac Ridge Wind Project Project No. 90791

Table of Contents

Page No. 1. PROJECT INFORMATION .................................................................................1 2. DECOMISSIONING & SITE RESTORATION ..................................................4 2.1 Probable Future Site Use ............................................................................4 2.2 Decommissioning During Construction (Abandonment of Project) ..........4 2.3 Procedures for Decommissioning After Ceasing Operations .....................4 2.3.1 Above Ground Structure Decommissioning ..................................5 2.3.2 Below Ground Structure Decommissioning ..................................7 3. MANAGING EXCESS MATERIALS AND WASTE ........................................8 4. PUBLIC, MUNICIPAL & ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION ...8 5. OTHER APPROVALS .........................................................................................8 6. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS & REFERENCES ....................................................9 APPENDICES Environmental Effects Monitoring and Mitigation – Natural Heritage ....... Appendix A Figures Figure 1: Project Location ...........................................................................................2 Figure 2: Location of Construction Activities .............................................................3 Tables Table 1: Potential Impacts and Proposed Mitigation Measures for Significant Woodlands within 120m .............................................................................. Appendix A Table 2: Summary of Potential Effects and Mitigation Measures for Generalized Wildlife Habitat during Decommissioning Phases ...................................... Appendix A


Decommissioning Plan Report Page 1 of 9 Sumac Ridge Wind Project Project No. 90791

1. PROJECT INFORMATION wpd Canada Corporation (wpd) is proposing to develop an onshore wind facility in the City of Kawartha Lakes, within the former Township of Manvers, Ontario. The proposed project consists of construction, operation and decommissioning of five 2.05MW wind turbines. The project has a maximum nameplate contract capacity of 11.5MW, and involves construction of a new 44kv connection line, which will run 1.9 km along Gray Road and connect to an existing distribution line running along HWY 35 to the Wilson Transmission Station. The Sumac Ridge Wind Project is subject to Ontario Regulation 359/09 under the Environmental Protection Act and requires a Renewable Energy Approval (REA), as a Class 4 wind facility. The project was awarded a Feed-in Tariff (FIT) contract in April 2010. The anticipated project lifespan from obtaining the REA Approval to the end of decommissioning is 22 years. The proposed project is hereafter referred as the Sumac Ridge Wind Project (the Project). The lifecycle of the project involves three stages: construction, operation and decommissioning. The objective of decommissioning activities is to restore the project site to a level similar to the pre development condition. During the decommissioning stage, the turbines will be dismantled and the project area will be restored to pre-development conditions. A Decommissioning Plan Report is a mandatory component of an application for the Renewable Energy Approval (REA). This report has been prepared in accordance to these requirements and Draft Technical Bulletin Four: Guidance for preparing the Decommissioning Plan Report (MOE, 2010). In accordance with the Draft guidance document, this report contains the following information:

• procedures for decommissioning during construction ( abandonment of the project);

• procedures for dismantling or demolishing the facility; • activities related to restoration of any land and water negatively

affected by the facility; and • procedures for managing excess materials and waste.

Figure 1 provides a map showing the project location and Figure 2 outlines project areas within 300 m from the project boundaries, as it relates to construction activities according to the REA requirements.



Figure 1: Project Location



Figure 2: Location of Construction Activities



2. DECOMISSIONING & SITE RESTORATION

2.1 Probable Future Site Use The project has been awarded a 20 year power purchase agreement under the FIT program by the Ontario Power Authority (OPA). After the 20 year FIT Contract expires the project may apply to the FIT program to have the Project re-powered which includes upgrading or replacing the turbines and other components with a newer technology to allow continued operation of the wind facility. This process would require additional permitting and approvals. Should re-powering not be an available or viable option, the project will be decommissioned and the proponent will cease operation and the project location would return to agricultural use.

2.2 Decommissioning During Construction (Abandonment of Project) While it is very unlikely that the Project would require decommissioning or be abandoned during the construction phase, due to the large amount of investment required by the FIT Program, the project could be decommissioned at any point in the construction process without incurring additional environmental impacts as described under the report section “Procedures for Decommissioning After Ceasing Operations”. Additionally, landowner commitments as defined in pre-existing legal agreements will be honoured, and due to their nature will not be discussed further here.

2.3 Procedures for Decommissioning After Ceasing Operations Should decommissioning become necessary the site will be restored by the proponent to a level similar to the pre development condition. Any decommissioning activities will commence within one year of the FIT Contract expiration date and involve removal of above-ground and below-ground structures to a depth of at least 1.0 metre and restoration of topsoil and vegetation cover at the site. Above-ground structures include turbines, transformers, associated laydown areas, access roads, above ground electrical connection lines, one short-cut road, and the Switching Station. Below-ground structures include turbine foundations, a concrete slab for the switching station and all underground electrical and communications lines. Any upgrades to municipal roads will remain as part of the Municipal roadway system. The following sections will outline the decommissioning and restoration activities recommended to restore the project site back to a level similar to the pre development condition.



2.3.1 Above Ground Structure Decommissioning Turbine Dismantling and Removal Industrial wind turbines are designed and certified for a minimum expected operational life of 25 years. If the project is not re-powered, and decommissioning of the wind project at the end of the contract period is required, the wind turbines will be disconnected from the electrical grid and dismantled in reverse order to the procedures used for the wind turbine assembly. Mobile cranes will be used for disassembling the blades, nacelle and tower sections. Disassembled wind turbine components will be placed in the laydown areas used for erection of the turbines and cut into transportable pieces. The metallic components will be removed from the site and either sold as salvage items or recycled for their scrap value. Wind turbine blades manufactured from composite materials (fiberglass, carbon fiber, epoxy-based resins) will require disposal in a landfill. The fluids in the nacelle are self-contained and will not be removed on site. They will be removed at a designated salvage location. A waste generator permit may be required prior to transportation of fluids or other regulated waste materials off-site. Transformers Transformers mounted on pads adjacent to the turbines will be removed from the site and either sold as salvage items or recycled for their scrap value. All the fluids in the transformers are self-contained and will not be removed on site. A waste generator permit may be required prior to transportation of fluids off-site. Staging Areas, Crane Pads and Laydown Areas Each turbine will require three staging areas (laydown area, crane assembly area and crane pad) located at each turbine site for the safe assembly and erection of wind turbines, descriptions of these items can be found in the Sumac Ridge Wind Project: Construction Plan Report. The laydown areas will be composed of gravel and geotextile base materials. Following removal of all other on-site components (with exception of the Access Roads) the laydown areas will be removed. The gravel areas will be inspected for signs of staining and suspect areas separated and removed. This material will be disposed of in a secure landfill based upon material analysis results. The remaining material will be removed via wheel loaders or scrapers and loaded onto dump trucks. Based on the quality of the material, it may be reused either as road base material or inert fill on another project site. Provincial fill quality guidelines will be followed in the event of placement off-site. The topsoil at these sites will be restored after the removal of this material to allow future use of the land for agricultural purposes. Re-vegetation of the land will be carried out shortly after this period using native vegetation selected in consultation with the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority, MNR and local landowners.



Access roads Following dismantling of the turbines, gravel material from access roads will be inspected for signs of staining and suspect areas separated and removed. This material will be disposed of via secure landfill based upon material analysis results. Based on the quality of the material, it may be reused either as road base material or inert fill on another project site. Provincial fill quality guidelines will be followed in the event of placement off-site. The remaining gravel from the access roads will be removed and sent to an aggregate facility for beneficial reuse. The underlying geotextile fabric will be removed and disposed of at a licensed landfill site. The project lands will be restored to pre-construction conditions in consultation with landowners. Any removed topsoil will be replaced from topsoil stockpiles located at the site, alternately imported topsoil of similar quality to the natural lands will be used if required to mitigate topsoil deficiency at some areas. Native vegetation selected in consultation with the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority, MNR and local landowners will be used on areas which are not used for agriculture. Electrical Connection Line Wind turbines will be disconnected from the grid. If constructed, overhead lines and poles that have not become the property of Hydro One, or utilized by another utility will be removed and post holes will be filled in. Consultation with the Hydro One Networks Inc. (HONI) and the Municipality will determine what work is necessary. Soil at the disturbed areas will be restored to the original conditions and re-seeded using native species determined in consultation with landowners, Kawartha Region Conservation Authority and the MNR. Work in and around waterbodies will be done in accordance with the provisions established in the Construction Plan Report. Switching Station Decommissioning of the project switching station will occur following disconnection of the project from the grid. Removal of the access road will occur in the same manner as the access roads sited above, additionally the pole and switching equipment will be removed, dismantled and sent to an appropriate offsite salvage facility for recycling. Decommissioning of the station will occur in consultation with HONI.



2.3.2 Below Ground Structure Decommissioning Turbine Foundations The concrete turbine foundations will be demolished and be partially removed to allow agricultural production at the site in the future. Heavy machinery will be used to break up the concrete foundation (e.g., hydraulic hammer, large excavator etc.). Concrete will be disposed in a manner outlined by the existing regulatory requirements at the time of decommissioning. Removal of underground materials will be conducted to a depth of 1.0 m below the final site grade. This depth of removal will minimize further disturbance to the land and allow for agricultural use of the land to resume. Excavated areas will be backfilled with subsoil and topsoil matching the natural grade to ensure the nutrient content of the soil is restored. Upon completion of decommissioning activities, disturbed areas will be re-vegetated to minimize potential soil erosion. Switching Station Foundation The switching station will be built on a concrete slab foundation, the details of which can be found in the Sumac Ridge Wind Project: Construction Plan Report. Following the removal of the above ground components as discussed above, the concrete foundation will be removed in the same manner as the wind turbine foundations and disposed at a landfill according the existing regulatory requirements. Excavated areas will be backfilled with subsoil and topsoil to complete the decommissioning activities and the area will be returned to agricultural production. Underground Cables The underground electrical cables will be buried in trenches to a minimum depth of 1 meter; decommissioning of the cables may require some excavation. Underground cables will be cut at each foundation site and removed from the ground. All cables buried deeper than 1 m will be retired in place if it is determined that they do not pose a safety hazard and their presence does not adversely impact land use. The removed cable materials will be recycled whenever possible. Underground sections of the connection line will be filled in or otherwise stabilized to prevent development of sinkholes. Re-vegetation of the area following decommission will take place to prevent soil erosion. Notification and consultation with the local municipality of decommissioning activities occurring within and around public right of ways will occur prior to initiating these activities. Work in and around waterbodies will be conducted in accordance with the guidelines established in the Sumac Ridge Wind Project: Construction Report and in consultation with the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority. A permit or authorization from the conservation Authority may be required.



3. MANAGING EXCESS MATERIALS AND WASTE All waste generated during decommissioning stage will be disposed according to the regulatory requirements at the time of disposal. Turbine components cut in pieces and removed electrical connection cables will be recycled at the proper salvage facility. Construction and demolition materials (e.g., concrete, wood, plastic etc.) and gravel used for access roads will be delivered for recycling to a licensed facility or disposed at the local landfill. No lubricants will be removed from heavy machinery on site. Quantities of these materials which may require management are identified in the Construction Plan Report.

4. PUBLIC, MUNICIPAL & ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION Notification of decommissioning will be provided to the Aboriginal communities, all stakeholders and interested agencies prior to commencement of decommissioning works. Additionally an updated decommissioning plan will be provided for review to the MNR, City of Kawartha Lakes, District MOE office and the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority. Notification may be in the form of newspaper notices, personal letters and updates on the Project website (www.wpd-canada.ca).

5. OTHER APPROVALS

Several permits will be required for the project decommissioning including the demolition permit obtained from the City of Kawartha Lakes, special transportation permit from the Ministry of Transportation, a Record of Site Condition under the Ministry of the Environment’s Records of Site Condition Regulation, O. Reg. 153/04 under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA). Other permits that may be required will be confirmed in discussions with the City of Kawartha Lakes and provincial agencies prior to decommissioning of the Project. Based upon the quality and quantity of designated materials a waste generator permit may be required for the removal and transportation of materials.



6. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS & REFERENCES This report was prepared by:

Scott Manser, P.Eng. Senior Project Manager Compliance & Permitting & Leah Deveaux Environmental Assessment Specialist ORTECH Environmental

References Ontario Regulation 359/09 made under the Environmental protection Act (Renewable Energy Approvals under Part V.0.1). September 8, 2009. Published on e-Laws: September 25, 2009. Available at: http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/source/regs/english/2009/elaws_src_regs_r09359_e.htm (accessed November 23, 2009). Ontario Regulation 359/09 made under the Environmental Protection Act (Renewable Approvals Under Part V.0.1 of the Act). June 14, 2011. Published on e-Laws: June 14, 2011. Available at: http://www.search.e-laws.gov.on.ca/en/isysquery/f444d7ba-0bda-41df-9f87-239195da37b6/1/doc/?search=browseStatutes&context=#hit1 (accessed September 14, 2011). Ministry of the Environment, (2011). Technical guide to renewable energy approvals: Queen's Printer for Ontario. Retrieved from http://www.ene.gov.on.ca/environment/en/resources/STDPROD_088423.html (accessed September 14, 2011). Natural Resource Solutions Inc. (March 2012). Sumac Ridge Wind Project Environmental Impact Study Report [Draft]. Natural Resource Solutions Inc. (March 2012). Sumac Ridge Wind Project Water Report and Environmental Impact Study [Draft]. Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants Inc. (October 2010). Stage 1 Archaeological Assessment Sumac Ridge Wind Farm. Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants Inc. (July 2011). Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment Sumac Ridge Wind Farm. Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants Inc. (November 2011). Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment ADDENDUM Sumac Ridge Wind Farm.


Construction Plan Report Appendix A Sumac Ridge Wind Project Project No. 90791

Appendix A: Activities Summary Table

(25 pages)

ORTECH Environmental________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Construction Plan Report Appendix A Sumac Ridge Wind Project Project No. 90791 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Table 1: Potential Impacts and Proposed Mitigation Measures for Significant Woodlands Within 120m

Feature ID Project Activity Potential Negative Effects Extent of Negative Effects Objectives Mitigation Measures Monitoring, and Contingency Plans

Decommissioning WOD-001 Vegetation removal (i.e.

clearing and grubbing of upland habitats)

Accidental vegetation damage or removal (direct vegetation

removal is not proposed)

Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of vegetation removal (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

• Minimize impacts to significant ecological functions (woodland diversity and water protection)

• Minimize accidental vegetation damage or removal from significant woodland

• Detailed vegetation inventory of species and abundance to be removed. • Clearly delineate work area using erosion fencing, or similar barrier, to avoid

accidental damage to species to be retained. • Clearly delineate the dripline and root zone of trees to be protected within 10m

of decommissioning activities to avoid accidental damage to retained species. • A Tree Preservation Plan, detailing trees to be removed and retained within 10m

of decommissioning activities, will be drafted prior to decommissioning. • Tree removal or pruning will be completed using proper arboricultural practices.

• Regular monitoring of the dripline and root zones of retainable trees within 10m of decommissioning activities for the duration of the decommissioning phase of this project. This monitoring will be conducted by a Certified Arborist when decommissioning is anticipated within 10m of retainable trees.

• Any tree limbs or roots that are accidentally damaged by decommissioning activities will be pruned using proper arboricultural techniques.

• Accidental damage to trees, or unexpected vegetation removal, may require re-planting of similar, native species, at a ratio of 4 saplings for each mature tree removed or excessively damaged.

Disturbance and/or mortality of local wildlife

(noise/human activity)


• Avoid direct impacts on breeding birds and their habitats.

• Minimize impacts on species that are relatively inactive at night and not accustomed to nighttime disturbances.

• Limit potential wildlife road mortalities.

• Decommissioning activities should occur outside of the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th), or retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for grading.

• Decommissioning activities within 30m of significant woodlands should occur during daylight hours to avoid excessive noise and/or light disturbances to wildlife.

• Speed limits should be clearly posted and followed by on-site staff.

• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for vegetation removal if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).

Sedimentation and erosion



• Minimize sedimentation and erosion within significant woodland

• Implement a sediment and erosion control plan. • Install, monitor, and maintain erosion and sediment control measures (i.e.

sediment fences) around the decommissioning area. • Schedule grading to avoid times of high runoff volumes (spring and fall),

wherever possible. • Sediment transportation will only occur within the decommissioning boundary. • Maintain an adequate supply of sediment and erosion control devices on site at

all times, including items such as sediment fence, geotextiles, etc., to ensure sediment and erosion measures are in place in the event of unexpected circumstances.

• Minimize amount of time that soils are exposed during decommissioning. • Disturbed soils will be stabilized or re-vegetated if they are to remain exposed

for more than 30 days. • Exposed sites will be re-vegetated or stabilized as soon as possible after they

have been disturbed. • Re-vegetation should consist of quick growing grasses or other native vegetation

species approved by the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority.

• Maintain or restore vegetated buffers within 30m of significant woodland.

• Maintain erosion and sediment control measures (i.e. silt fences) around the decommissioning area for the duration of decommissioning.

• Regular monitoring of sediment and erosion control measures by an Environmental Monitor for the duration of decommissioning.



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• Maintain sediment and erosion control measures until vegetation has established in the area or until the disturbed area has been stabilized.

• Direct surface water run-off away from significant woodlands. • Designate areas away from significant woodlands for topsoil stockpiles and

excavated material. • Install sediment fence around the perimeter of the stockpiles to limit the

transport of sediment around the project area. • Implement fugitive dust suppression techniques, such as water application to all

inactive disturbed surface areas, unpaved roads, open storage piles, and work areas, as well as avoiding or reducing decommissioning activity during very dry or windy conditions.

Spills (i.e. oil, gasoline, grease, etc.)



• Minimize spills within significant woodland

• All maintenance activities, vehicle refueling or washing, as well as the storage of chemical and decommissioning equipment will be located more than 30m from significant woodlands.

• Clean decommissioning machinery prior to arriving on site and ensure machinery is free of all leaks.

• Implement best management practices. • Develop a spill response plan and train staff on appropriate procedures. • Keep contact information for the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) Spills Action

Centre (1-800-268-6060) in all vehicles as well as posted in a designated area on-site.

• Keep emergency spill kits on site. • Dispose of waste material by authorized and approved off-site vendors. • Store hazardous materials off-site.

• Develop a spill response plan and train staff on appropriate procedures.

• Immediate application of the spill response plan following any accidental spills, leaks, or release of hazardous material into the environment, including calling the MOE Spills Action Centre (1-800-268-6060).

• Keep emergency spill kits on-site.

Changes in soil moisture and compaction



• Minimize impacts to soil moisture regime and vegetation species composition

• Implement best management practices. • Decommissioning machinery, equipment and vehicles required for clearing will

not be stored within the dripline or root zone of retained trees. • The operation of decommissioning machinery and vehicles should be avoided

outside of decommissioning area or within the dripline or root zone of retained trees.


Site Grading Accidental vegetation damage or removal

Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of








• Any tree limbs or roots that are accidentally



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grading (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

damaged by decommissioning activities will be pruned using proper arboricultural techniques.




Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None







• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for site grading if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).


Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Intermittent events Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None










species approved by the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority. • Maintain sediment and erosion control measures until vegetation has

established in the area or until the disturbed area has been stabilized. • Direct surface water run-off away from significant woodlands. • Designate areas away from significant woodlands for topsoil stockpiles and



inactive disturbed surface areas, unpaved roads, open storage piles, and work areas, as well as avoiding or reducing decommissioning activity during very dry or






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windy conditions. Spills (i.e. oil, gasoline,

grease, etc.) Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Intermittent events Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None















• Implement best management practices. • Minimize changes in land contours and natural drainage. • Implement infiltration techniques to the maximum extent possible. • Construction machinery, equipment and vehicles will not be stored within the

dripline or root zone of retained trees. • The operation of decommissioning machinery and vehicles should be avoided



Wind Turbine Dismantling and

Removal

Accidental vegetation damage or removal

Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of wind turbine dismantling and removal Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None












Type Indirect Magnitude Low


• Minimize impacts on species that are relatively inactive at night and not


• Decommissioning activities within 30m of significant woodlands should occur

• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for the erection of wind turbines if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July



5


Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of wind turbine dismantling and removal Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

accustomed to nighttime disturbances. • Limit potential wildlife road mortalities.

during daylight hours to avoid excessive noise and/or light disturbances to wildlife.


15th).





















Type Indirect Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of wind turbine dismantling and removal Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th)












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Residual Effects None



Type Indirect Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of wind turbine dismantling and removal Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None



• Implement best management practices. • Minimize changes in land contours and natural drainage. • Implement infiltration techniques to the maximum extent possible. • Minimize paved surfaces where possible. • Decommissioning machinery, equipment and vehicles will not be stored within

the dripline or root zone of retained trees. • The operation of decommissioning machinery and vehicles should be avoided



Reduced stream flow rate and/or increased water temperatures

caused by dewatering activities (if necessary)


• Minimize changes in stream flow rates and temperatures within Fleetwood Creek headwaters

• Control rate and timing of water pumping. • Pump from deep wells to infiltration galleries adjacent to water bodies or

wetlands. • Restrict taking of water during periods of extreme low flow. • Maintain ground and surface water conditions with those near pre-construction

conditions.

• N/A

Access Road Decommissioning


Type Indirect Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of access road decommissioning (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None












Type Indirect Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of






• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for the decommissioning of access roads if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).



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access road decommissioning (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None



































8


Underground Collector Line Decommissioning


Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of underground collector line decommissioning (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None



















• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for the decommissioning of underground collector lines if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).


















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WOD-007 Vegetation removal (i.e. clearing and grubbing of

upland habitats)

Accidental vegetation damage or removal (direct vegetation

removal is not proposed)


• Minimize impacts to significant ecological functions (woodland size, interior, diversity and water protection)











Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of vegetation removal (5 weeks)







• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for vegetation removal if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).



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Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None





















Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of vegetation removal (5 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration; outside breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects - None






Centre (1-800-268-6060) in all vehicles as well as posted in a designated area on the decommissioning site.







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Site Grading Accidental vegetation damage or removal




















• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for site grading if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).







wherever possible.


• Maintain erosion and sediment control measures (i.e. silt fences) around the decommissioning area for the duration of



12


Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (5 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

• Sediment transportation will only occur within the decommissioning boundary. • Maintain an adequate supply of sediment and erosion control devices on site at










decommissioning. • Regular monitoring of sediment and erosion

control measures by an Environmental Monitor for the duration of decommissioning.


Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (5 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None












Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (5 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding



• Implement best management practices. • Minimize changes in land contours and natural drainage. • Implement infiltration techniques to the maximum extent possible. • Decommissioning machinery, equipment and vehicles will not be stored within






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bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

Wind Turbine Dismantling and

Removal





















• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for the erection of wind turbines if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).












species approved by the Kawartha Region Conservation Authority.






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• Maintain sediment and erosion control measures until vegetation has established in the area or until the disturbed area has been stabilized.

























Reduced stream flow rate and/or increased water temperatures

caused by dewatering activities (if necessary)

Type Indirect Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of wind turbine dismantling and removal Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th)

• Minimize changes in stream flow rates and temperatures within Pigeon River tributaries

• Control rate and timing of water pumping. • Pump from deep wells to infiltration galleries adjacent to water bodies or

wetlands. • Restrict taking of water during periods of extreme low flow. • Maintain ground and surface water conditions with those near pre-construction

conditions.

• N/A



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Access Road Decommissioning





















• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for the decommissioning of access roads if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).













established in the area or until the disturbed area has been stabilized.






16













Centre (1-800-268-6060) in all vehicles as well as posted in a designated area on the decommissioning site.













Underground Collector Line Decommissioning


Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of underground collector line decommissioning (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th)









• Accidental damage to trees, or unexpected vegetation removal, may require re-planting of similar, native species, at a ratio of 4 saplings for each mature tree removed or excessively



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damaged.










• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for the decommissioning of underground collector lines if this project activity will occur within the breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).





















Type Indirect




• Immediate application of the spill response



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Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of underground collector line decommissioning (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None






plan following any accidental spills, leaks, or release of hazardous material into the environment, including calling the MOE Spills Action Centre (1-800-268-6060).






• Implement best management practices. • Decommissioning machinery, equipment and vehicles will not be stored within




Above Ground Electrical Line Decommissioning


Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of above ground electrical line decommissioning (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None














• Minimize impacts on species that are relatively inactive at night and not


• Decommissioning activities within 30m of significant woodlands should occur

• Retain a biologist to confirm no nests are present in areas proposed for the decommissioning of underground collector lines if this project activity will occur within the



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Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of above ground electrical line decommissioning (3 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

accustomed to nighttime disturbances. • Limit potential wildlife road mortalities.

during daylight hours to avoid excessive noise and/or light disturbances to wildlife.


breeding bird season (May 1st – July 15th).





















Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of above ground electrical line decommissioning (3 weeks)






Centre (1-800-268-6060) in all vehicles as well as posted in a designated area on-






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Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

site. • Keep emergency spill kits on site. • Dispose of waste material by authorized and approved off-site vendors. • Store hazardous materials off-site.









WOD-009 Site Grading


Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (2 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th) Residual Effects None

• Minimize impacts to significant ecological function (water protection)











Type Indirect Magnitude Low Frequency Single Event Duration Short term – Limited to the duration of grading (2 weeks) Timing Within 1 year of the FIT Contract expiration date; outside of the breeding bird period (May 1st – July 15th)

• Minimize impacts to significant ecological function (water protection)


• Implement best management practices. • Minimize changes in land contours and natural drainage. • Implement infiltration techniques to the maximum extent possible. • Decommissioning machinery, equipment and vehicles will not be stored within






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Above Ground Electrical Line Decommissioning



• Minimize impacts to significant ecological functions (water protection)












• Minimize impacts to significant ecological functions (water protection)








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Table 2: Summary of Potential Effects and Mitigation Measures for Generalized Wildlife Habitat during Decommissioning Phases

Project Component Project Activity Potential Negative Effects Mitigation Measures Objectives, Monitoring, and Contingency Plans

Wind Turbine Removal Clearing, grubbing, grading, and topsoil removal.

• Increased erosion and sedimentation into woodlands, wetlands, and other natural features.

• Soil compaction.

• Develop and implement an erosion and sediment control plan. • Utilize erosion blankets, silt fencing, straw bales, etc. for construction activities within 30m of a

wetland, woodland, or water body. • Maintain erosion control measures for the duration of construction or decommissioning

activities. • Suspend work if high runoff volume is noted or excessive sediment discharge occurs. • Implement fugitive dust suppression techniques, such as water application to all inactive

disturbed surface areas, unpaved roads, open storage piles, and work areas, as well as avoiding or reducing construction activity during very dry or windy conditions,

• Any stockpiled material will be stored more than 30m from a wetland, woodland, or water body. • Minimize vehicle traffic on exposed soils, and limit heavy machinery traffic on sensitive slopes.

• Minimize direct impacts on vegetation communities and protect rare/sensitive habitats.

• Maintain vegetated buffers, particularly within riparian zones. • Minimize the impacts of sedimentation on nearby natural features.

Noise/human activity. • Disturbance and/or mortality to local wildlife.

• Clearly post construction speed limits. • Limit potential wildlife road mortalities.

Accidental damage to vegetation. • Damage or removal of vegetation adjacent to the project location.

• Where construction activity occurs within 30m of a naturally vegetated feature (i.e. woodland, wetland, etc.), the construction area should be clearly delineated with protective fencing, such as silt fencing.

• Damaged trees should be pruned through implementation of proper arboricultural techniques.

• Minimize impacts to natural vegetation.

Chemical spills or accidental fluid release (i.e. oil, gasoline, grease,

etc.).

• Soil or water contamination. • Implement best management practices. • Develop a spill response plan and train staff on appropriate procedures. • Keep emergency spill kits on site. • Vehicle washing, refueling stations, and chemical storage will all be located more than 30m from

natural features or water bodies. • Dispose of waste material by authorized and approved offsite vendors.

• Minimize impacts to natural features and wildlife habitats. • Avoid contamination of water or wetland features.

Dewatering activities (if necessary). • Reduced stream flow rate. • Increased water temperature.

• Control rate and timing of water pumping. • Pump from deep wells to infiltration galleries adjacent to water bodies or wetlands. • Restrict taking of water during periods of extreme low flow.

• Maintain ground and surface water conditions with those near pre-construction conditions.

Installation of impervious surfaces. • Increase surface run-off. • Changes in surface water drainage.

• Maintain vegetative buffers around water bodies, • Control quantity and quality of stormwater discharge using best management practices, • Minimize grading activities to maintain existing drainage patterns as much as possible.

• Limit disturbances to surface water drainage patterns.

Temporary Access Roads, Crane Paths, and Turnaround

Areas

Clearing, grubbing, grading, and topsoil removal.





activities. • Implement fugitive dust suppression techniques, such as water application to all inactive


• Any stockpiled material will be stored more than 30m from a wetland, woodland, or water body. • Minimize vehicle traffic on exposed soils, and limit heavy machinery traffic on sensitive slopes. • Re-vegetate temporary roads to pre-construction conditions as soon as possible after

construction activities are complete.




• Avoid construction or decommissioning activities during sensitive time periods (i.e. breeding bird season), wherever possible.

• Conduct nest searches if vegetation removal will occur during the breeding bird season (May 1-July 31).

• Construction and decommissioning activities within 30m of woodlands or wetlands should occur during daylight hours, wherever possible.




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• Clearly post construction speed limits. Accidental damage to vegetation. • Damage or removal of vegetation

adjacent to the project location. • Where construction activity occurs within 30m of a naturally vegetated feature (i.e. woodland,

wetland, etc.), the construction area should be clearly delineated with protective fencing, such as silt fencing.




etc.).





• Maintain vegetative buffers around water bodies. • Control quantity and quality of stormwater discharge using best management practices. • Minimize grading activities to maintain existing drainage patterns as much as possible.


Permanent Access Roads Clearing, grubbing, grading, and topsoil removal.


• Soil compaction





• Any stockpiled material will be stored more than 30m from a wetland, woodland, or water body. • Minimize vehicle traffic on exposed soils, and limit heavy machinery traffic on sensitive slopes.





• Conduct nest searches if vegetation removal will occur during the breeding bird season (May 1-July 31).


• Clearly post construction speed limits.







etc.).





• Maintain vegetative buffers around water bodies. • Control quantity and quality of stormwater discharge using best management practices. • Minimize grading activities to maintain existing drainage patterns as much as possible.


Above Ground Electrical Line (if required)

Clearing, grubbing, grading, and topsoil removal.


• Soil compaction. • Removal of vegetation within the road

• Develop and implement an erosion and sediment control plan. • Utilize erosion blankets, silt fencing, straw bales, etc. to delineate construction activities within

30m of a wetland, woodland, or water body. • Maintain erosion control measures for the duration of construction or decommissioning

activities.





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right-of-way. • Implement fugitive dust suppression techniques, such as water application to all inactive disturbed surface areas, unpaved roads, open storage piles, and work areas, as well as avoiding or reducing construction activity during very dry or windy conditions,

• Any stockpiled material will be stored more than 30m from a wetland, woodland, or water body. • Minimize vehicle traffic on exposed soils, and limit heavy machinery traffic on sensitive slopes. • For roadside collector routes, vegetation removal (if any) will be kept to a minimum and will be

limited to the road right-of-way. Noise/human activity. • Disturbance and/or mortality to local

wildlife. • Avoid construction or decommissioning activities during sensitive time periods (i.e. breeding

bird season), wherever possible. • Construction and decommissioning activities within 30m of woodlands or wetlands should occur

during daylight hours, wherever possible.







etc.).




Underground Collector Lines Clearing, grubbing, grading, and topsoil removal.


• Develop and implement an erosion and sediment control plan. • Implement fugitive dust suppression techniques, such as water application to all inactive


• Any stockpiled material will be stored more than 30m from a wetland, woodland, or water body.












etc.).




Switching Station Clearing, grubbing, grading, and topsoil removal.







• Suspend work if high runoff volume is noted or excessive sediment discharge occurs. • Any stockpiled material will be stored more than 30m from a wetland, woodland, or water body.





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• Minimize vehicle traffic on exposed soils, and limit heavy machinery traffic on sensitive slopes. Noise/human activity. • Disturbance and/or mortality to local

wildlife. • Avoid construction or decommissioning activities during sensitive time periods (i.e. breeding

bird season), wherever possible. • Construction and decommissioning activities within 30m of woodlands or wetlands should occur

during daylight hours, wherever possible. • Clearly post construction speed limits.







etc.).




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