Environment, Geology and Mining Operations

Ambitious water supply project for North Glengarry

The township of North Glengarry in eastern Ontario is spearheading an ambitious regional water supply project that will transport treated drinking water from the city of Cornwall to the villages of Maxville and Alexandria.

New website engages public on benefits of concrete

A new web portal has been launched to engage stakeholders and the public in discussing concrete’s sustainability and provide information on the topic.

Advanced environmental engineering for Earl Bales Park

Highlighted with interior walkways, armour stone retaining walls, life-saving equipment, and an observation pond, a 3.2-hectare curvature pond in an almost wilderness-like setting in an affluent section of north Toronto is a visual attraction for dog walkers and hikers.

A pot of gold at the end of Manitoba mine cleanup?

A Toronto environmental company is cleaning up a toxic Manitoba mine site at no cost to taxpayers. Its compensation? It gets to keep any gold it can extract from a stockpile of arsenopyrite concentrate

Environmental assessment for B.C. mine questioned

Doctors and a community-advisory group are questioning the independence and transparency of an environmental review for a proposed copper-gold mine in British Columbia's Interior.

Doctors and community group question environmental review for B.C. mine

Doctors and a community-advisory group are questioning the independence and transparency of an environmental review for a proposed copper-gold mine in British Columbia's Interior.

Federal minister calls for geo-tech studies for new St. Lawrence bridge

A request has been submitted by Denis Lebel, Canada’s transport, infrastructure and communities minister, for laboratory services and geotechnical studies on the construction of the new bridge over the St. Lawrence River.

St. Lawrence bridge project is progressing on track

Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities Denis Lebel continued his consultation process as he met with mayors from the Montreal and Monteregie regions recently to discuss the new bridge for the St. Lawrence.

Port Mann Bridge builders honoured as demo starts

Two plaques were unveiled at the Port Mann Bridge recently to mark the opening of the new crossing, while the demolition of the old structure gets underway.

Shell submits Kitimat,B.C., LNG project plans to environmental review agencies

A $4-billion plan for a pipeline and liquefied natural gas export terminal by Shell Canada Ltd. for Kitimat, B.C., has been submitted to federal and provincial environmental regulatory agencies.

Highway improvements

Three levels of government have committed $25 million to upgrade Highway 11 near Abbotsford, B.C.

Major upgrades planned for Highway 11 near Abbotsford, B.C.

The federal government, government of British Columbia and the City of Abbotsford has committed to a $25 million project to upgrade Highway 11 near Abbotsford, B.C.

Molybdenum mine gets government certificate

The proposed Kitsault open-pit molybdenum mine on the north coast of BC has been issued an environmental assessment certificate (EAC) from the provincial government, despite a disagreement with the Nisga'a First Nation about the impact of the project.

Assessment agreement

The B.C. Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency on the substitution of environmental assessments.

Federal government adds $50 million for construction of Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk highway

The federal government will provide an additional $50 million in support for the construction of an all-weather highway from Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk; it has been confirmed, raising its total commitment for the project to $200 million.

B.C. Environmental Assessment Office enters into MOU with Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency

The British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency on substitution of environmental assessments.

Federal government adds $50 million for construction of Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk highway

The federal government will provide an additional $50 million in support for the construction of an all-weather highway from Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk; it has been confirmed, raising its total commitment for the project to $200 million.

Quebec premier requires more information on proposed pipeline

The construction of a pipeline linking New Brunswick and Alberta needs more analysis, concluded the Premier of Quebec in a recent meeting with New Brunswick premier David Alward.

Liquified natural gas facility gets approvals

A multi-billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility near is inching closer to construction after a group of companies, led by Shell, were granted a long-term federal export licence.

Public entity competition a growing concern: CCA

Outgoing Canadian Construction Association (CCA) chair John Schubert has identified competition from public entities and international firms as changes that are impacting the national construction landscape.

Quebec premier requires more information on proposed pipeline

The construction of a pipeline linking New Brunswick and Alberta needs more analysis, concluded the Premier of Quebec in a recent meeting with New Brunswick premier David Alward.

What is the state and fate of the Gardiner?

A reinstituted environmental assessment of the Frederick G. Gardiner Expressway in Toronto will ultimately determine its future.

Highway 26 alignment in Ontario looks out for deer

Controlling the movement of deer was a major design and planning issue in the soon-to-be-completed construction of the new Highway 26 alignment between Collingwood and Wasaga Beach.

Consulting engineers earn awards

Several British Columbia engineering firms took the top prizes at the ninth annual Deputy Minister's Consulting Engineers Awards.

First Nations withdraw from Northern Gateway review

Coastal First Nations have been forced to withdraw their participation from the federal review process for the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline, due to a lack of funding and what they call the distressing nature of the proceedings.

Highway project in Inuvik gets Environmental Impact Review Board's approval

An Environmental Impact Review Board (EIRB) report supports approval, with conditions, for the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway project.

Energy minister solidifies federal acceptance of west to east oil pipeline

The federal government is firming up its support of two projects that would see oil from Alberta piped to Atlantic Canada.

Aboriginal title claim going before the Supreme Court

The $1 billion New Prosperity Mine proposal and other major resource projects in Canada may have more difficulty reaching the construction stage, after the country's highest court hears a B.C. First Nation's Aboriginal title claim.

HD Mining sends temporary workers back to China

Foreign workers at a proposed coal mine in northeastern B.C. are being sent back to China by their employer, in response to a federal judicial review of the process that granted them permission to work in Canada.

Highway project in Inuvik gets Environmental Impact Review Board's approval

An Environmental Impact Review Board (EIRB) report supports approval, with conditions, for the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway project. "The completed report is a crucial milestone for this project," said Northwest Territories minister of transportation David Ramsay in a news release. "We can now move forward with greater certainty to make this project a reality."

Mining firm sends 16 Chinese workers home, delays hiring more workers in B.C

Sixteen temporary employees at a controversial coal mine in northern B.C. are returning to China because of the company's concerns about ongoing litigation and its associated costs and disruptions.

HD Mining sends foreign workers back to China

Foreign workers at a proposed coal mine in northeastern B.C. are being sent back to China by their employer, in response to a federal judicial review of the process that granted them permission to work in Canada.

Saskatchewan feasibility study

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan is working with a local engineering firm to assess the feasibility of building the North Commuter Bridge.

Hydroelectric project may need assessing

The Canadian Environmental Agency will have to decide whether an environmental assessment is necessary for the proposed Elizabeth Falls Hydroelectric Project in northern Saskatchewan.

Environmental assessment of the Gardiner Expressway gets the green light, again

The City of Toronto's budget committee recently passed a motion to reopen an environmental assessment of the Gardiner Expressway.

Conditional approval

Creek Power Inc. has received a conditional Environmental Assessment Certificate from the B.C. government for the Upper Lillooet Hydro project, located about 60 km northwest of Pemberton.

Upper Lillooet Hydro project granted conditional environmental approval

Creek Power Inc. has received a conditional Environmental Assessment Certificate from the BC government for the Upper Lillooet Hydro project, located approximately 60 km northwest of Pemberton, British Columbia.

Federal funds for Côte-Nord environmental assessment

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is making available $91,800 to support public participation in the federal environmental assessment of the Côte-Nord Mining Railway Project in Québec.

The push for a new Northern Ontario deal grows

An initiative to revitalize the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) and build a rail link to the Ring of Fire in Northern Ontario is gaining support among key stakeholders.

Work starts on massive worker housing project

Britco is starting work on the largest project in its 35-year history at a multi-billion dollar power generation project in Manitoba.

Hebron offshore oil project expected to create 3,500 jobs during its construction

Newfoundland and Labrador’s waning offshore oil industry received a much-needed boost after ExxonMobil Corp. said on Jan. 4 it has approved the Hebron offshore oil project.

Feds want input on proposed potash mine

Federal regulators are asking for public input to assist in making a decision on whether they need to undertake an environmental assessment for the proposed Muskowekwan Potash Mine Project in Saskatchewan.

OHMPA unveils Trillium Award winners

Representatives of the best-managed hot mix asphalt plants in the province took bows at the recent Ontario Hot Mix Producers Association annual fall conference. As it does at every year’s conference, the association officially honoured its Trillium Award winners.

2012 Year in Review

Construction companies in the Lower Mainland of B.C. celebrated the new year with a new tax.

First-ever infrastructure report card top 2012 story

The release of the first National Infrastructure Report Card and the federal government’s commitment to construction ranked as the top stories of the year for the industry’s national leaders.

Ottawa seeks public comment on proposed potash mine on Saskatchewan reserve

Federal regulators want to hear from the public about a plan to build a $2.4-billion potash mine on aboriginal land north of Regina.

Review panel wants more information before ruling on billion dollar mine

Taseko Mines Ltd has run into another road block in the construction of its proposed $1.1 billion gold-copper mine near Williams Lake, B.C.

Construction of $1.5 billion transmission line goes ahead

AltaLink Management Ltd. is moving forward with the construction of the proposed $1.5 billion dollar Western Alberta transmission Line (WATL), which is the second critical piece of transmission infrastructure to be approved by provincial regulators in the last month.

Jobs and Growth Act passed in House of Commons

The Jobs and Growth Act, 2012, Bill C-45, was passed in the House of Commons on Dec. 5. The federal government says the it will build a strong economy and create jobs by extending for one year the job-creating Hiring Credit for Small Business, which benefitted nearly 534,000 employers last year and promoting interprovincial trade, among other measures.

Muskrat Falls hydroelectric project receives federal loan guarantee

Prime Minister Stephen Harper signed off on a loan guarantee agreement on Nov. 30 that would save Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia more than $1 billion in borrowing costs on the $7.4-billion Muskrat Falls hydroelectric project.

Jobs and Growth Act passed in House of Commons

The Jobs and Growth Act, 2012, Bill C-45, was passed in the House of Commons on Dec. 5.

Prince Rupert potash terminal gets regulatory approval

Federal regulators have given conditional approval to a plan by Canpotex and the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) to construct a potash export terminal and associated transportation infrastructure.

Ground breaks on Queens Quay revitalization

Ground was recently broken on the Queens Quay revitalization in Toronto where a 1.7-kilometre stretch along Lake Ontario is being completely rebuilt and revitalized above and below the ground.

New Montreal bridge EA consults planned

Public consultations on the environmental assessment of the new bridge spanning the St. Lawrence River will be held in Montreal at the beginning of December.

Alberta transmission line gets approved

ATCO Electric Ltd. received approval from regulators in Alberta for the construction of a proposed $1.6 billion transmission line, which is part of an ambitious plan to expand the province’s electricity grid.

B.C. First Nation members evict gas line surveyors, set up pipeline road block

Members of a First Nation in northern British Columbia have evicted surveyors working on a natural gas pipeline project from their territory and set up a roadblock against all pipeline activity.

The search for clean-up money on muddied projects

Large-scale developments of environmentally-contaminated properties often have little trouble in attracting financing. However, some owners of contaminated properties that are available for small and mid-sized development find it difficult to raise the capital necessary to complete environmental remediation, says the owner of Environmental Corporate Finance.

Old bridge piers find new life in Bronte Creek Valley

Four long-disused, 90-year-old-plus concrete bridge piers are being put back into service as part of an overall $27-million watermain project to strengthen security of water supply service in the west Oakville/east Burlington area.

Scugog’s Old Mill part of waterfront revitalization

The Township of Scugog, Ontario is turning its attentions to the revitalization of the grain elevator known as the Old Mill, a Port Perry landmark since it was built in 1874 by grain buyer George Currie.

Concrete repairs top construction work at 5 Wing Goose Bay

In many communities, a million-dollar concrete remediation contract would represent a project of significant scope. At the massive 5 Wing Goose Bay airfield in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, N.L., it represents a small but necessary patch job on the aircraft ramp and parking apron adjacent to the terminal.

Coal mine looked for Chinese workers at lower pay, union tells court

A mining company that has hired hundreds of temporary workers from China for its northern B.C. coal mine advertised those jobs in Canada for $10 to $17 less than what is paid for similar work at a nearby mine, a lawyer representing two unions told a federal court judge on Friday.

Launch of public consultations on the environmental assessment of new St. Lawrence bridge

Public consultations on the environmental assessment of the new bridge spanning the St. Lawrence River will be held in Montreal at the beginning of December.

Case management conference held for challenge of Chinese Temporary Foreign Worker permits

A federal legal challenge by two construction unions is threatening to block the importation of several hundred Chinese temporary foreign workers to a coal mine in northern B.C. and expose the process that granted them permission for employment in Canada.

Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada conference begins in Hawaii

Contractors from across Canada will converge in Maui Nov. 12 to 15 for the 71st annual national conference of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCAC).

B.C. port expansion plan inches forward

The construction of the proposed Fairview Terminal expansion in Prince Rupert B.C. is moving forward as federal regulators invite the public for input on the project.

Controversy over Chinese miners in B.C. prompts review of foreign worker program

Controversial plans to hire 201 Chinese workers at a proposed mine in northern British Columbia have prompted Ottawa to announce a review of its entire foreign worker program, with the government suggesting the case has revealed deeper problems with a system designed to fill short-term labour shortages.

Muskrat Falls remains viable despite $1.2 billion hike in costs, premier says

The proposed Muskrat Falls hydroelectric project remains the most viable option to meet Newfoundland and Labrador’s future energy needs, Premier Kathy Dunderdale said recently even as her government raised its capital cost estimates for the development by $1.2 billion.

Two unions seek federal court muscle to oust foreign workers from B.C. mine

A battle over foreign workers in a northeastern British Columbia coal mine could be decided by the courts.

Seminar helps navigate prominent green building systems

>Contractors, designers and engineers can learn more about green building certification at a Buildex Calgary seminar Green Building Certification: A Review of the Systems, the Way to Maximize Benefits and the 101 Most Common Mistakes.

Soup festival highlights concerns over planned quarry’s impacts

Soup lovers packed Toronto’s Woodbine Park recently in a culinary protest against a proposed mega-quarry planned for a site in Melancthon, Ontario, just north of the city.

London, Ontario’s first LEED platinum office building almost done

London, Ontario’s first LEED platinum office building wraps up construction at the end of November. And despite facing many unusual challenges, the build will come in on budget, says its coordinator.

Oilsands giant swallows remaining assets of smaller Alberta company

Cenovus Energy Inc. is buying the remaining assets of Oilsands Quest for a few million dollars, which are located adjacent to the proposed Telephone Lake oilsands project in northern Alberta.

Top Gun concrete repairs for 5 Wing Goose Bay airfield in Newfoundland

In most communities, a million-dollar concrete remediation contract would represent a project of significant scope. At the massive 5 Wing Goose Bay airfield in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, it represents a small but necessary patch job on the aircraft ramp and parking apron adjacent to the terminal.

Christy Clark's election strategy is centred around her jobs plan

Premier Christie Clark's strategy for defeating the New Democratic Party (NDP) in the next provincial election is based on her job creation plan, which is the B.C. Liberal Party's most important economic policy initiative.

Provincial government rejects proposed B.C. mine

A Vancouver mining development company and a First Nations group are taking a closer look at the environmental assessment process in B.C., after the provincial government refused to issue a certificate for the construction of a proposed gold-copper mine.

Billion dollar B.C. mine enters public input stage

Aboriginal groups are concerned with the hearings procedures for a proposed billion dollar gold-copper mine in central B.C., as the federal regulatory authority asks for public input on the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

Environmental assessment continues for Alderon open pit iron ore mine near Labrador City

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency and the Newfoundland and Labrador ministry of Environment and Conservation are seeking public comments for an environmental assessment of the Kami Iron Ore Project, an open pit mine proposed by Alderon Iron Ore Corp. near Labrador City.

Environmental assessment continues for 450-kilometre pipeline in Quebec

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is seeking public comments this month on a 450-kilometre natural gas pipeline proposed by Gaz Metro in Quebec. If approved, the pipeline would be built between Saguenay (Jonquiere District) and Sept-Iles and would pass through Baie-Comeau and Port-Cartier, running roughly parallel to the north shore of the Saint Lawrence River.

Environmental assessment continues for proposed highway interchange north of Hamilton

IBI Group Inc. is working on the Environmental Assessment Addendum and Detail Design for an interchange of Highways 5 and 6 in the community of Clappison’s Corners. The level intersection of the highways is immediately west of the former village of Waterdown, now within the limits of the City of Hamilton. Funding has yet to be approved. The project is not on the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario five-year Southern Highways Program

Full-life cost equates to best value

From the perspective of any sensible customer, it is obvious that cost is a full-life concern.

Full-life cost equates to best procurement value

From the perspective of any sensible customer, it is obvious that cost is a full-life concern.

Panel told that Canadian megaproject angst is common

Controversial megaprojects are as old as Canada itself, but their long-term benefits to the nation's growth are both undisputed and profound, the president of the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline told a review panel recently.

Pervious pavement is not concrete, explains Ready Mixed Concrete Association of Ontario

The Bard opined a rose by any other name would still smell as sweet but when it comes to pervious pavement, the last thing Ready Mixed Concrete Association of Ontario president John D. Hull wants to hear it called is concrete.

Fast and flexible — Canada’s new immigration system

The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is praising proposed changes to Canada’s immigration system. They include the creation of a new Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC), amendments to the Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC) and improvements to the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). These changes come after research by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

Raucous behavior in the party room next door (Part 1)

It’s going to be a tough choice.

Windsor-Essex Parkway to enhance watercourses

Water and natural habitat play a significant role in constructing the new $1.4 billion Windsor-Essex Parkway, which will connect Ontario Highway 401 to a new bridge to Detroit. The 11 kilometre road will interrupt as many as nine legacy drains in west Windsor. >Exacting attention, however, is being paid to not just protect the plant and fish habitats but to actually increase and enhance them. It’s part of construction guidelines where environmental sensitivity governs virtually all aspects of planning.

Canadian megaproject angst nothing new, speakers tell panel reviewing Enbridge Northern Gateway oil pipeline

At the review panel hearings for the Enbridge Inc. (TSX:ENB) Northern Gateway oil pipeline project, John Carruthers said the proposal to ship Alberta oilsands crude to Asia-bound tankers on the west coast of British Columbia brings long-term benefits to the nation.

PEI Energy Corporation receives community support for wind power developments

After receiving a clear majority support in the community, the PEI Energy Corporation will go ahead with a proposed wind development in the Hermanville and Clear Springs area of Prince Edward Island.

Proposed Dyno Nobel explosives plant in Wabush, Labrador gets conditional approval

The Newfoundland and Labrador environment ministry released an emulsion manufacturing plant proposed by Dyno Nobel Canada Inc. from environmental assessment subject to conditions requiring the firm to provide information on local employment and procurement strategies. The plant is intended to supply Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (NYSE: CLF) with blasting agent for iron mines in the Wabush area near Labrador City, east of the Quebec border.

Three run of river projects get certificates

nnergex Energy Inc. has received environmental assessment certificates for the proposed Tretheway Creek, Shovel Creek and Big Silver Creek waterpower projects.

Uranium mine gets green light from feds

The federal environment minister has approved a proposal by Areva Resources Canada for the construction of a uranium mine in northern Saskatchewan.

Husky Energy proposes wellhead platform construction in Argentia, Newfoundland

Husky Energy Inc. (TSX:HSE) of Calgary has registered for provincial environmental asssessment a proposed wellhead platform at Argentia, about 100 kilometres southwest of St. John’s, Newfoundland. It would be used for offshore oil extraction from the White Rose field in the of the Jeanne d’Arc Basin, about 350 kilometres east of St. John’s.

B.C. media mogul proposes $13 billion oil refinery

Media mogul David Black is proposing a $13 billion oil refinery for Kitimat, B.C., to process oil from the controversial Northern Gateway pipeline.

Federal port authority in Oshawa, Ontario approves ethanol refinery construction

The Oshawa, Ontario Port Authority has approved a proposal by FarmTech Energy Corp. to build an ethanol refinery.

Contracts awarded at Goose Bay, Labrador air force base

Two wing infrastructure improvement projects and 10 contracts for remediation activities have been awarded at the Royal Canadian Air Force 5 Wing Goose Bay Airfield in Labrador. A contract for over $1 million was awarded to Crown Contracting Inc. of Mount Pearl, Newfoundland while Ravencor Projects Inc. of St. John’s got a contract worth nearly $1 million.

Innergex Energy Inc. receives environmental assessment certificates for three hydroelectric projects

Innergex Energy Inc. has received environmental assessment certificates for the proposed Tretheway Creek, Shovel Creek and Big Silver Creek waterpower projects.

Green innovation impacts purchasing

Following up on last week’s column about green procurement, I want to review your choices between cost and function in this environmental purchasing area.

Media mogul calls for B.C. refinery for controversial Enbridge pipeline proposal

Media mogul David Black is proposing a $13 billion oil refinery for Kitimat, B.C., to process oil from the controversial Northern Gateway pipeline.

Iron Ore Company proposes explosives facility construction in Labrador City

The Iron Ore Company of Canada is proposing the construction of a new explosives facility in Labrador City, near the Quebec border. The proposal is for a process building, an adjacent mobile mixing unit building, gravel access road and 1,700-metre railway extension.

Some consulting jobs are for the birds

Environmental assessment reports often contain lists of mammals, birds, insects and other species seen on a proposed project site during a particular stretch of time.

Lambton Shores plans new storage facility construction

The Municipality of Lambton Shores is planning a public information centre Aug. 7 on the proposed construction of a winter control material storage facility near Port Franks, Ont., about 70 kilometres northwest of London.

Canadian Construction Association drafts response to proposed federal environmental regulations

With the assistance of consultant Jeff Barnes, the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is drafting a response to proposed regulations under the new Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.

Environmental assessment continues on Donkin, Nova Scotia mine

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA) and the Nova Scotia environment department are inviting comments from the public on the proposed Donkin Export Coking Coal Project, which includes a coal mine on Cape Breton Island, N.S. Comments are due Sept. 12, according to a recent CEAA press release.

Six Canadian projects earn kudos

Six Canadian infrastructure projects have been named as some of the 100 most innovative and inspiring urban infrastructure projects in the world.

Lambton Shores, Ontario plans storage facility construction near Port Franks

The Municipality of Lambton Shores is planning a public information centre August 7 on the proposed construction of a winter control material storage facility near Port Franks, Ontario, about 70 kilometres northwest of London.

Counting crows: site wildlife assessment

Environmental assessment reports often contain lists of mammals, birds, insects and other species seen on a proposed project site during a particular stretch of time. Experts, such as those employed by environmental consulting firm Keystone Wildlife Research in Surrey, British Columbia have developed a reputation for devising and executing site wildlife studies on behalf of both public and private sector clients.

Environmental approval announced for $2.1-billion Ottawa light rail construction

The City of Ottawa announced that its proposed light rail transit construction project, estimated at $2.1 billion, has received federal environmental assessment approval. Construction is expected to start in early 2013.

Governments promise funding for Victoria treatment system

The construction of a wastewater treatment system in Greater Victoria, B.C. is a bit closer to reality after the federal and provincial governments promised hundreds of millions in funding.

Six pack of Canadian projects are tops

Six Canadian infrastructure projects have been named as some of the 100 most innovative and inspiring urban infrastructure projects in the world by KPMG. They are Waterfront Toronto, the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology Polytechnic’s Trades and Technology Complex in Calgary, the Calgary International Airport Development, the University of British Columbia’s clean energy project the Durham York Energy Centre in Whitby, Ontario and Harvest’s Energy Garden in Richmond, B.C.

First phase of $58-million waterfront development construction finished in Thunder Bay, Ontario

The City of Thunder Bay, Ontario has completed the first phase of the $58-million Prince Arthur’s Landing waterfront development project on the shore of Lake Superior. The federal and provincial governments contributed $14.65 million each through the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund.

B.C. Liberal government unveils its position on Northern Gateway pipeline

British Columbia's environment minister has outlined what the province needs to support the controversial Enbridge pipeline, saying answers to questions about Northern Gateway have so far been "insufficient."

Draft documents for billion dollar mine missing key info

Taseko Mines' draft environmental document for the construction of a proposed billion dollar gold-copper mine in central B.C. is missing critical information and full of errors and inaccuracies, which is no surprise to Aboriginal groups.

Journal of Commerce Update for the week of July 23rd, 2012

In this week's update, we look at some of the stories we'll be covering in the Journal of Commerce for the week of July 23, 2012.

Environmental protection plan ordered for Iron Ore Company road construction in Labrador

The Newfoundland and Labrador department of environment and conservation has requested further assessment of a road construction project proposed by the Iron Ore Company of Canada in western Labrador.

Hiring by the roster system grows

Hiring consultants using a "roster system" is becoming a more common practice for government, as a standard procurement process.

Journal of Commerce Update for the week of July 23rd, 2012

In this week's update, we look at some of the stories we'll be covering in the Journal of Commerce for the week of July 23, 2012.

Soil disposal comes with a pricetag: Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario report

Due to rising costs and greater restrictions, up to 15 per cent of the costs of infrastructure projects will have to be dedicated to the disposal of excavated soil, found a new report released by the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO). The report, titled Eglinton LRT Project: Estimated Costs and Impacts of Addressing Excess Construction Soils, was written by consultant and environmental lawyer Frank Zechner.

Newfoundland accepts component study for Nalcor power transmission line from Lower Churchill

The Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Environment and Conservation has accepted the Marine Environment and Effects Modelling Component Study for the Nalcor Energy Labrador-Island Transmission Link, which would entail a 1,100-kilometre transmission line across the Strait of Belle Isle, connecting the yet-to-be-built Muskrat Falls hydroelectric station on the Lower Churchill River in Labrador with the island of Newfoundland.

Environmental assessment continues for coal mine, export facility construction in Donkin, Nova Scotia

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency and the Nova Scotia environment department are inviting comments from the public on the proposed Donkin Export Coking Coal Project, which includes a coal mine on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.

Snake charming on the Windsor-Essex Parkway project

Steve Marks, a biologist with AMEC environmental consulting, says it’s important to protect species like the Butler’s Gartersnake and the Eastern Fox Snake. Under the environmental permit for the Windsor-Essex Parkway, coinciding closely with the passage of Ontario’s new Endangered Species Act in 2007, the most extensive and detailed “ mitigation” programs have been put in place, with laborious mapping and physical uprooting and transplanting of tens of thousands of plants along the Parkway footprint.

Teck Resources temporarily withdraws Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 application

Teck Resources Ltd. said Monday it has temporarily withdrawn its social and environmental impact assessment application for the Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 copper project in Chile.

Hiring by the roster system grows

Hiring consultants using a “roster system” is becoming a more common practice for government, as a standard procurement process.

Ottawa contributes to $180-million Winnipeg Convention Centre

The federal government is setting aside up to $46.647 million under the Building Canada Fund towards the expansion and renovation of the Winnipeg Convention Centre. The city and the Province of Manitoba will contribute $51 million each. The total cost is estimated at $180 million.

Modules take a different route to oilsands

Environmental activists are claiming a victory over Imperial Oil, after the company withdrew an application for permits to transport hundreds of oversized loads to the Kearl construction site in Alberta using U.S. highways.

Winnipeg Convention Centre expansion gets up to $46.6 million

The Manitoba government announced that the federal government is setting aside up to $46.6 million under the Building Canada Fund towards the expansion and renovation of the Winnipeg Convention Centre.

Burlington, Ontario skyway wastewater plant buzzes with expansion

The Burlington Skyway Wastewater Treatment Plant, northeast of Hamilton, Ontario, is undergoing a $158-million expansion which will increase its treatment capacity from 118 to 140 mega-litres a day. The contractor is North America Construction (1993) Ltd. and the consultant for Halton Region, the plant owner, is CH2M HILL.

Peel Region’s big watermain work begins

Varcon Construction is close to completing a 300-metre-long open-cut pipe installation for the Regional Municipality of Peel, west of Toronto, near the Lakeview Water Treatment Plant on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Dyno Nobel proposes explosives manufacturing plant in western Labrador

Explosives firm Dyno Nobel Canada Inc. recently registered for environmental assessment a proposed modular emulsion manufacturing plant in Wabush, Labrador with the provincial environment and conservation department. If approved, the plan would supply Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (NYSE: CLF) with blasting agent emulsion.

Ottawa to contribute under Building Canada Fund towards $180-million Winnipeg Convention Centre construction

The Manitoba government announced Monday that the federal government is setting aside up to $46.647 million under the Building Canada Fund towards the expansion and renovation of the Winnipeg Convention Centre.

The lowest bid and life-cycle costing

As more and more people become concerned with life-cycle costing for projects of all sorts, purchasers of construction are coming to realize that hiring the lowest bidder for initial construction is not necessarily the most economical way to go.

Shell awards $4 billion pipeline contract

Shell Canada Limited has awarded TransCanada Corporation a $4 billion contract to develop a proposed pipeline to transport natural gas from the Montney region near Dawson Creek, B.C. to a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in Kitimat, BC.

Wilkinson ready to build with Ontario Road Builders’ Association

Geoff Wilkinson will keep Ontario moving as he takes over the reins as executive director of the Ontario Road Builders’ Association (ORBA).

The lowest bid and life-cycle costing

As more and more people become concerned with life-cycle costing for projects of all sorts, purchasers of construction are coming to realize that hiring the lowest bidder for initial construction is not necessarily the most economical way to go.

Hydro project approved

AltaGas Renewable Energy Inc. has received an environmental assessment (EA) certificate for the proposed McLymont Creek Hydroelectric Project about 100 kilometres northwest of Stewart, B.C.

McLymont Creek Hydroelectric Project gets environmental approval

AltaGas Renewable Energy Inc. has received an environmental assessment (EA)certificate for the proposed McLymont Creek Hydroelectric Project about 100 kilometres northwest of Stewart, B.C..

Approval process continues for Canada Lithium mine construction near Val d’Or, Quebec

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is conducting a study of Canada Lithium Corp.’s (TSX: CLQ) open pit mine north of Val d’Or, Quebec. The firm has received a mining licence from the Quebec government for the project, from which it intends to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate. Construction work is more than 20 per cent complete and contractor Genivar Inc. is installing mechanical and electrical components in the processing plant.

$3 billion road network could take up to 30 years to build

Manitoba Aboriginal communities on the east side of Lake Winnipeg have always had a tenuous connection with the rest of the province. The lack of all-weather roads has meant that those residents have had to rely on short-lived winter roads to bring supplies into their communities.

Northwest Territories projects budget surplus

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is projecting an operating surplus of $74 million, its first surplus in five years, in its recently released 2012-13 budget.

Niagara Region evaluates water, waste infrastructure proposals for Port Colborne, Ontario

The Regional Municipality of Niagara has initiated a municipal class environmental assessment and project file on its preferred solutions for water and wastewater servicing in the City of Port Colborne, about 35 kilometres southwest of Niagara Falls. They include construction of a new pumping station and a forcemain discharging directly to East Side Sewage Pumping Station, a new elevated storage tank and extending an existing trunk watermain.

British Columbia court rules contractor not bound by non-compliant bid

In the decision of the British Columbia Court of Appeal in Graham Indus-trial Services Ltd. versus the Greater Vancouver Water District, the bidder used its non-compliance as a successful defence after failing to honour its tender. This case involved a tender call for the construction of the Capilano Pumping Station.

Trenchless technology road show kicks off in Niagara Falls

The underground infrastructure research international conference & trenchless technology road show opens today at the Scotiabank Centre in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The event is organized by Technology and the Centre for the Advancement of Trenchless Technologies.

Harmonized review underway

An Alberta-based company is one of the first in Canada to undergo a harmonized federal and provincial environmental review for a proposed aggregate mine near Squamish, B.C.

Acton, Ontario library certified LEED gold

The Town of Halton Hills, Ontario announced that a municipal library in the community of Acton has been certified gold under leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED). Features include geothermal heating and cooling and low flow fixtures.

Mississauga, Ontario refines plans for light rail transit

Ontario transit agency Metrolinx is working with municipalities west of Toronto on planning, design and construction of several projects intended to provide rapid transit in the region. The cities of Mississauga and Brampton are working on planning and design for the Hurontario-Main light rail transit and the $15 million preliminary design project has been contracted to a consortium led by SNC Lavalin Group Inc.

Leadership panel cites change as the driver of innovation

Current industry trends and a shift from hard to soft skills dominated discussion at the Leadership Panel at the Vancouver Regional Construction Association Construction Learning Forum held last weekend in Whistler, B.C.

Mine proposal opens up to public input

The proposed Kitsault Mine in northern British Columbia is moving into the next stage of the environmental assessment process, as both federal and provincial authorities invite the public to comment on the project application.

BLOG: VRCA Leadership Panel at the Construction Learning Forum

Keith Sashaw moderated the Leadership Panel at the VRCA Construction Learning Forum, with a panel consisting of Anibal Valente, vice president of PCL Constructors Westcoast, Sarah Clark, President and CEO of Partnerships BC and Robert Lashin, President and CEO of Houle Electric.

Proposed bus lanes on Toronto Don Valley Parkway pass environmental assessment

The bus by-pass lanes along the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) in Toronto proposed by GO Transit have passed Environmental Assessment.

Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency invites comments on proposed Royal Nickel mine in Quebec

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency is conducting an environmental assessment on the Dumont Nickel project, a mine Royal Nickel Corp. (TSX: RNX) is proposing to build near Amos, Quebec.

Another multi-billion dollar LNG terminal proposed for Kitimat

A group of companies led by Shell are developing plans for the construction of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Kitimat, British Columbia.

Bending Lake Iron Ore pushes ahead with mining plans

The Bending Lake Iron Ore Group Ltd., a privately owned company based in Thunder Bay, is pressing ahead with plans for an estimated $900 million mining development in northwestern Ontario.

Panel appointed to oversee hearings into B.C. mine project

The federal government has selected a new panel to undertake the second environmental assessment for a proposed billion dollar gold and copper mine in central B.C.

Environmental assessment underway for Champion Minerals railway in Quebec and Labrador

The Newfoundland and Labrador department of Environment and Conservation announced Tuesday that Champion Minerals Inc. has registered a proposed 62-kilometre railway line for public comments.

Cliffs Natural Resources to invest $3.3 billion in Ring of Fire

The board of directors at Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. has approved advancing its proposed chromite project in Northern Ontario’s Ring of Fire area from pre-feasibility to the feasibility study phase.

Environmental assessment starts for St. Catharines, Ontario sewage pumping station overhaul

Cole Engineering Group Ltd. has started an environmental assessment to identify “ suitable alternatives” for deficiencies at the Cole Farm Sewage Pumping Station in St. Catharines, Ontario. The Regional Municipality of Niagara says the pumping station requires removal and replacement of the existing raw sewage pumps, process piping and valves, installation of a new valve chamber and upgrades to the existing electrical system and building.

Toronto studies construction of new islands

The City of Toronto, Waterfront Toronto and the Toronto Region Conservation Authority will lead the Waterfront Landforms Environmental Assessment Study on a new landform south of Ashbridges Bay.

Archeological finds may change Thunder Bay, Ontario waterfront development plans

Staff at the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario are preparing a report to politicians outlining options for the second phase of waterfront development of Prince Arthur’s Landing, originally planned as a 300-slip marina in a tugboat basin on the shore of Lake Superior. An environmental assessment for the second phase has identified items of archeological interest, including a sunken barge filled with concrete, a dock constructed in 1882 and a concrete wharf.

Aboriginal group upset with efforts to restrict their input

A First Nations group is extremely upset about attempts by Taseko Mines Ltd (TML) to pressure the federal government into placing greater restrictions on Aboriginal participation in the review process for a proposal to construct a $1 billion mine in central B.C.

New partner for Architecture 2030

GreenWizard, a cloud-based product management and project collaboration solution that simplifies building efficient, healthy and sustainable buildings, has entered into a partnership with Architecture 2030 to provide enabling technology for the 2030 Challenge for Products.

Montreal consortium selected for EA of new bridge over St. Lawrence

The Dessau|Cima+ consortium of Montreal has been selected to conduct the federal environmental assessment for the new bridge over the St. Lawrence River.

$1 billion pipeline expansion approved

A billion dollar pipeline between Summit Lake and Canada’s first proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility in Kitimat, B.C. has been approved for a significant expansion by the B.C. Environmental Assessment Office (EAO).

Ottawa funds Quebec open pit mine review

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency (CEAA) has announced it has allocated $39,992 to seven applicants to support their participation in a review of Mine Arnaud Inc.’s proposed open pit apatite mine near Sept-Iles, Que.

Environmental study report complete for Peterborough, Ontario road reconstruction

AECOM has completed an environmental assessment for the City of Peterborough, Ontario on the reconstruction of part of Parkhill Road.

Why busted marijuana grow-ops pose a challenge for remediation and demolition

Some marijuana grow-ops are so full of mould that traditional treatments won’t touch them and they’re condemned and torn down, says a manager with Fisher Environmental Ltd. of Markham, Ontario. The RCMP estimates there are at least 50,000 marijuana grow-ops in Canada alone, and as many as 15 per cent of them are located in commercial or industrial buildings.

Dessau, Cima+ to work on Montreal bridge environmental assessment

The federal government has selected a consortium comprised of Dessau Inc. and Cima+ to carry out an environmental assessment for a new bridge over the St. Lawrence River, intended to replace the Champlain Bridge, which connects Brossard, Quebec to the Montreal borough of Verdun.

One project, one review to streamline major projects

Canadian Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver recently provided additional details to a measure announced in the March 29th federal budget. Major project reviews will now recognize provincial processes as substitutes or equivalents to federal ones as long as they meet the requirements under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.

Ontario Ring of Fire prospects and players huge

Some 35 companies hold approximately 25,000 claim units in the Ring of Fire region of Ontario, exploring for minerals as diverse as chromite, nickel, copper, zinc, platinum, gold and diamonds.

Kemano water tunnel to be completed 20 years later

Rio Tinto Alcan's $500 million completion of a second tunnel as a back-up for the Kemano power station is expected to get final approvals this month.

Feds streamline environmental assessments

The federal government's plan to streamline environmental assessments on major resource development projects is taking some heavy criticism for gutting the regulatory process in the country.

Ottawa funds participants in environmental review of Sept-Iles, Quebec open pit mine

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency has allocated $39,992 to seven applicants to support their participation in a review of Mine Arnaud Inc.’s proposed open pit apatite mine near Sept-Iles, Quebec. Mine Arnaud foresees an investment of more than $750 million in the planning, construction and operations of the mine.

Northwestern B.C. molybdenum mine gets $640 million in financing

Avanti Mining Inc. has arranged to borrow $640 million from an international group for the development of its Kitsault molybdenum mine in northwestern B.C.

VIDEO: Federal budget recognizes importance of resources to economy

The best feature of the federal budget is its recognition of the changing nature of Canada’s economy, says Alex Carrick, chief economist of CanaData.

A tale of two budgets

“Austerity” has been adopted as the current buzz word by governments.

Controversial $5 billion pipeline expansion planned for Vancouver

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners is moving forward with a $5 billion proposal to expand the existing Trans Mountain pipeline system that carries crude oil from the Alberta oilsands to Vancouver for export on tanker ships.

Deltaport slated for major expansion

Port Metro Vancouver is inviting the public to comment on the federal government’s preliminary environmental assessment report for a major improvement project at Deltaport terminal, which is the largest container facility in Canada.

Ottawa unveils plan for speeding up environmental project reviews

Ottawa is getting set to change environmental-assessment rules for what it calls major economic projects.

Ottawa to change environmental assessment rules, proposes fines for project owners

Federal Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver announced major changes designed to streamline the review process for projects. The proposed measures include setting timelines for reviews, expanding the powers of federal inspectors, imposing penalties of up to $400,000 and providing $13.5 million for pipeline safety.

Federal government streamlines environmental regulations

The federal government is starting to flesh out its new plan to streamline the environmental process for major resource development projects, which was recently announced in Budget 2012.

Marwood seeks environmental approval for wood manufacturing plant in Deer Lake, Newfoundland

The Newfoundland and Labrador department of Environment and Conservation announced this week that Marwood Ltd. has registered a proposed pressure-treated lumber and wood manufacturing facility for an environmental assessment. If approved, the facility would be in Deer Lake, about 50 kilometres northeast of Corner Brook and construction would begin within six months of approval.

Kelowna area First Nation plans high tech private hospital on band land

The Westbank First Nation says it is planning to build a state-of-the art private hospital on its land, overlooking Okanagan Lake across from Kelowna, B.C.

Engineers like planned investment

Planned investments in new infrastructure programs and maintenance of the Building Canada Fund until 2014 are among the highlights of the federal government’s 2012 budget from the perspective of Canada's consulting engineering industry.

Carbon capture project inches closer to construction

A proposed Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Project in Alberta took another step toward being the first facility of its type in the province, while the public input process for the federal environmental assessment wraps up.

British Columbia windfarm gets green light from provincial regulator

Finavera Wind Energy Inc. has taken another step towards the construction of a wind farm near Tumbler Ridge, B.C., after the project received regulatory approval from the provincial government.

Peterborough, Ontario schedules info session on diversion sewer construction

The City of Peterborough, Ontario has scheduled an information session the evening of April 17 on the possibility of constructing a diversion sewer to connect Jackson Creek to the Otonabee River. Representatives from the city and its consulting team from Aecom Canada Ltd. will be present to answer questions from the public and discuss the findings and next steps for the study, which was prepared after severe flooding in July, 2004.

CCA likes what it sees in the latest federal budget

Maintaining infrastructure commitments and the addition of new smaller investment programs made the recent national budget positive in the eyes of the Canadian Construction Association (CCA).

Federal budget streamlines the regulatory process

Construction leaders in Canada are applauding the Conservative government’s 2012 Federal Budget, which promises to reduce the deficit and implement regulatory changes to the environmental assessment process for major projects.

Budget Highlights: Environmental assessment reform, foreign credentials and small business hiring credit

The budget proposes to improve the review process for major construction projects. The government will establish clear timelines, reduce duplication and regulatory burdens, and focus resources on large projects where the potential environmental impacts are greatest.

Association of Consulting Engineering Companies-Canada praises federal commitment to Building Canada Fund

Planned investments in new infrastructure programs and maintenance of the Building Canada Fund until 2014 number among the highlights of the federal government’s 2012 budget from the perspective of Canada’s consulting engineering industry.

2012 Canadian federal budget gets CCA nod

Maintaining infrastructure commitments and the addition of new smaller investment programs made the recent national budget positive in the eyes of the Canadian Construction Association (CCA).

Northern Gateway panel scrubs first of four hearings in Bella Bella, B.C.

The first day of a planned four-day hearing by the joint review panel examining the Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipeline project was cancelled in Bella Bella, B.C.

Harper government cuts $5.2 billion in annual spending in 2012 budget

With an eye to the long game after years of politically attractive, minority budgets, federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty is trimming $5.2 billion in annual federal spending, scrapping the money-losing penny in the process, while raising the age of eligibility for old age security to 67 from 65, starting a decade from now.

Canadian Construction Association praises 2012 federal budget

Overall the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is happy with the federal budget since it stayed the course on long-term infrastructure funding.

Harper government cuts $5.2 billion in annual spending in 2012 budget

With an eye to the long game after years of politically attractive, minority budgets, federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty is trimming $5.2 billion in annual federal spending, scrapping the money-losing penny in the process, while raising the age of eligibility for old age security to 67 from 65, starting a decade from now.

Canadian Construction Association praises 2012 federal budget

Overall the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is happy with the federal budget since it stayed the course on long-term infrastructure funding.