Mining activities, iron mine, Bloom Lake project, Fermont

Quebec (QC)

Reasons for a Federal Assessment
Project Description
Final Decision

Reference Number

Canadian Environmental Assessment Registry: 06-01-23635

Environmental Assessment Type

Screening

Other Assessment Process

Government of Québec

Responsible or Regulated Authorities

Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Natural Resources Canada
Transport Canada

Reasons for a Federal Assessment

On October 27, 2006, it was determined that an environmental assessment was required in relation to the project because Fisheries and Oceans Canada considered taking action in relation to subsection 35(2) of the Fisheries Act; Natural Resources Canada considered taking action in relation to paragraph 7(1)(a) of the Explosives Act and Transport Canada considered taking action in relation to paragraph 5(1)(a) of the Navigable Waters Protection Act.

Project Description (as posted in the Notice of Commencement)

The project involves various activities and installations associated with the mining of an iron deposit in the vicinity of Bloom Lake, near the city of Fermont in Quebec. Project scope: - dams at the settling, polishing and recycled water ponds and at the lakes; - dikes to control water levels, contain mine wastes, recirculate wastewater and divert clean water; - all other works, temporary structures or activities that affect water environments, including, but not limited to, tailings and waste rock management in lakes and water diversion by means of drainage ditches; - explosives plant.

Final Decision

A decision was taken on October 1, 2008 and was that the authorities may exercise any power or perform any duty or function with respect to the project because, after taking into consideration the screening report and taking into account the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, the authorities are of the opinion that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.