Part F: EPEA Application for Approval. Parsons Creek Aggregates Project

Transcription

1 Part F: EPEA Application for Approval Parsons Creek Aggregates Project

2 Table of Contents F. EPEA APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL... 1 F.1 NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE APPLICANT... 8 F.2 LOCATION, SIZE AND CAPACITY... 9 F.3 NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION BOARD APPROVAL... 9 F.4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT F.5 EXISTING APPROVALS F.6 PROJECT SCHEDULE F.7 SUBSTANCES RELEASED TO THE ENVIRONMENT F.8 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING F.9 POLLUTION CONTROL SYSTEMS F.10 JUSTIFICATION FOR RELEASE OF SUBSTANCES F.11 WASTE MINIMIZATION F.12 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS F.13 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND CONTINGENCY PLANS F.14 CONSERVATION AND RECLAMATION F.15 PUBLIC CONSULTATION F.16 SUPPLEMENTARY SUBMISSIONS F.17 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Table F.0-1 List of Tables Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA)... 1 Table F Year Development and Reclamation Schedule Table F.6-2 Quarry Development Schedule to Closure Table F.14-1 Parsons Creek Aggregates Project Disturbance Areas Part F June 2010 Page i

3 F. EPEA APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL Graymont Western Canada Inc., on behalf of Parsons Creek Aggregates (PCA) hereby makes application under Part 2, Division 2 of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) for an approval to construct, operate and reclaim the Parsons Creek Aggregates Limestone Quarry Project (the Project). The information provided in this Application is intended to meet the requirements of the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93). Graymont Western Canada Inc. (Graymont) holds the rights to all metallic and industrial minerals (which include limestone) on the described Project properties under Alberta Metallic and Industrial Mineral Lease No Partnering with Lehigh Hanson Materials Limited (Lehigh Hanson), a major aggregate supplier in western Canada, Graymont has entered into a joint venture named Parsons Creek Aggregates (PCA) for the purposes of developing the minerals resources on the Project properties. Under the joint venture, Graymont and Lehigh Hanson have both authorized Parsons Creek Aggregates to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the development and operation of a Limestone Quarry on the Crown land containing the Graymont mineral lease. REGULATORS INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS Table F.0-1 is a cross-reference between the requirements of the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the EPEA and the contents of this Application. Table F.0-1 Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) (a) (b) Alberta Regulation 113/93 Information Requirements And Checklist the name and address of the applicant; 1. Corporately Registered Company Name 2. Mailing Address of Head Office (in Alberta) 3. Mailing Address of Applicable Plant or Regional Office 4. Phone and Telecopier(Fax) Numbers, including , if available 5. Date 6. Name(s) of contact(s) for this application 7. Signature of Owner/Operator the location, capacity and size of the activity to which the application relates; 1. Location: i. Legal Land Description (LLD) - based on Land Status Automated System (LSAS) ii. iii. Relation to nearest town, city, or village Geographical description (topographic map) including relation to nearby watercourses 2. Capacity (stated design, nominal): i. Raw material processing capacity, by-product processing capacity, finished product capacity ii. Other appropriate capacity measurements 3. Size: i. Size of the affected area, leased area, and/or plant site (e.g. hectares) ii. Physical dimensions of the plant site including a plant site map (i.e. plot plan) iii. Number of employees working at the facility Location Sec. A-1, Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. B-1; Vol. 1, Part F, Sec. F.1; Vol. 1, Part G, Sec. G.1; Vol. 1, Appendix G. Sec. A-1, Figures A.1-1, A.1-2, A.1-3 Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. B-1, Figures B-1.0-1, B.1.1-1, B (c) the nature of the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or Vol. 1, Part B. Part F June 2010 Page 1

4 Table F.0-1 Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) Alberta Regulation 113/93 Information Requirements And Checklist deletion, as the case may be; Location 1. Provide classification of this facility under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act Activities Designation Regulation 211/ Describe the general purpose, raw materials, products, by-products (e.g. chemical manufacturing plant, brine pond, waste storage facility, etc.). Include quantities used/produced per unit time. 3. Describe the major unit operations (e.g. cooling towers, steam boilers, compression, sulphur prilling, etc.). 4. Describe the duration of the project, construction commencement date, completion date and commissioning dates of unit(s), production facilities and environmental protection and control systems/procedures. Include an estimated project cost as well as costs of environmental protection and control systems. 5. Provide scale diagrams of the plant, plant site and the surrounding area, including: i. topography of the area; ii. property boundaries and land use of the area; iii. the location of the plant site; iv. location and types of all buildings; v. exact location and name of all equipment used in manufacturing, processing or storage and other units; vi. liquid effluent outfall and air emission point sources and sampling/monitoring equipment (see ATTACHMENT D) [provide separate sections on air, wastewater, etc.]; vii. exact location and name of all equipment used in control, treatment and disposal of wastes (see ATTACHMENTS B and C; for landfills see ATTACHMENT E); viii. ix. location of all sewer lines; the industrial runoff drainage information specified in ATTACHMENT B; x. location of all air emissions discharge points; and xi. location of all topsoil stockpiles. 6. Provide a flow diagram of the manufacturing process(es) or operation(s) involved, the industrial wastewater, air and waste treatment facilities, and a general narrative description, including equipment and unit capacities. 7. Provide a list of unit products resulting from the processing or activity operations, specifying the production unit, typical and maximum design capacities. Include a material balance flow sheet (block diagram) for the entire plant operation. 8. For industrial wastewater discharges and air emission streams identify: i. the release substance volume(s) generated per unit time; ii. iii. iv. concentration of substance(s), and physical or biological characteristics of substance(s); discharge rate per unit time as well as per unit of production, and whether the discharge or emission is continuous or intermittent, and the frequency (if intermittent). 9. Identify any component streams which contribute to those streams identified in 8 above. 10. Describe any cooling system to be used [e.g. once-through; air (closed-loop); circulating, etc.]. Include flow rates, intake and discharge temperatures (EC), blowdown rate, dissipation rate in receiving water (kilojoules/hour). i. Identify any additives (i.e. corrosion inhibitors, biocides), the frequency of application, and ii. calculate concentration in the final discharge effluent stream. Part F June 2010 Page 2

5 Table F.0-1 Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) Alberta Regulation 113/93 Information Requirements And Checklist 11. Describe all raw water treatment processes, chemicals used, amounts and quality of wastes to be disposed and the frequency of disposal. 12. For sanitary wastes, describe the facilities treatment system (if any), and disposal method. Include: i. number of people on the system(s); ii. volume discharged per unit time; iii. whether or not approval was required or obtained from the Plumbing Inspections Branch of Alberta Labour; and iv. final disposal of sludge (if any) and location. 13. Describe major environmental control operations including size and location of any ponds, pond contents, pond liners, landfills or other waste management facilities (i.e. sludge ponds), air or water pollution control or treatment facilities, discharge details, engineering drawings for these structures (e.g. industrial runoff control, deepwell disposal). (See ATTACHMENT C.) As-built plans and liner details for ponds, landfills, and other waste management facilities will also be required. 14. For all underground and aboveground tanks, specify: i. tank locations; ii. type of service (e.g. Produced water); iii. capacity (in m3); iv. material type; v. type of corrosion protection; vi. type of secondary containment; vii. method of leak detection. 15. For underground storage tanks, please specify: i. Measures incorporated to prevent overfilling of tanks (e.g. Automatic shut-off devices, high level dams). ii. Summarize results of integrity testing and inspections. See ATTACHMENT D-A Describe the source and amount of potable water, how it will be used, and any water treatment system used (i.e. chlorination, filtration, softening, etc.). Refer to Potable Water Regulation 122/93 with amendments up to and including Alberta Regulation 214/ Provide details on any reciprocating or turbine engines (a table may be used to list all the information if there are several engines): i. make and model number; ii. rated power (kilowatts); iii. exhaust stack diameter (metres); iv. exhaust stack height above grade (metres); v. exhaust gas temperature ( C); vi. exhaust gas velocity (m/s); vii. emission rate of the oxides of nitrogen (grams of NOx)/(kW*hr); and viii. does the engine meet the low NOx emission requirement and by what method. 18. Provide a copy of the plot plan showing any stack and exhaust stack locations and distance between each stack. 19. Provide the peak height of the compressor building in metres. 20. Provide details on all natural gas fired heaters (including space heaters), treaters and boilers (a table may be used to list all the information): i. rated power (kilowatts); ii. iii. iv. exhaust stack height (metres); and exhaust stack diameter (metres); and does the heater, boiler, or steam generator meet the low NOx emission requirement. Location Part F June 2010 Page 3

6 Table F.0-1 Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) Alberta Regulation 113/93 Information Requirements And Checklist 21. Provide details on any auxiliary or standby process equipment or other sources of emissions to air, soils or water. 22. Provide details on flare stacks: i. height (metres); ii. diameter (metres); iii. net heating value of the gas to be combusted in the flare under normal and emergency conditions; iv. exit velocity of the flare, under normal and emergency conditions; v. method used to control combustion e.g., assisted by air, steam or nonassisted; vi. flare tip design, and vii. type of igniter, pilots. 23. Provide details on any active flare pit on site: i. under what condition is it used; ii. type and/or present condition of liner; iii. how often it is used and what goes into the pit, and iv. type of flare design, e.g., igniter, pilot, etc. 24. Details on any inactive or former flare pits on site including: i. size of flare pit; ii. description of previous or planned remediation activities; and iii. confirmatory groundwater and soil sample results (if applicable). 25. Describe emergency flaring scenarios: provide rates and composition of flared streams (i.e. inlet stream, acid gas before sulphur recovery unit, acid gas after sulphur recovery unit, etc.) and to provide a dispersion modelling run to show the maximum ground level concentration. 26. Describe any on site incineration of solid waste and any approvals received for the disposal practice. 27. Determine the maximum ground level concentration of SO2, NO2, or any air contaminant that is significant. Provide a computer output for NO2 and SO2 dispersion modelling. Background ambient concentrations must be taken into account, as well as nearby sources up to 5 km. (d) where the applicant requires an approval from the Energy Resources Conservation Board or the Natural Resources Conservation Board in relation to the activity, the date of the written decision in respect of the application; (e) (f) (g) 1. Date of Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB) Approval (if applicable); 2. EUB Approval Number (if applicable); 3. Comments on any environmental related terms and conditions of the approval. an indication of whether an environmental impact assessment report has been required; 1. Was an EIA required? 2. If required, the date of submission of the EIA report to Alberta Environment accepted by the Director. copies of existing approvals or registrations that were issued to the applicant in respect of the activity under this Act or a predecessor of this Act; 1. Attach copies of applicable existing approvals (e.g. if this is a renewal application, please attach a copy of the previous approval that is due to expire, including any amendments). the proposed or actual dates for construction commencement, construction completion and commencement of operation; 1. Provide proposed dates for the above. Location Sections A.1 & A.4; Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. B.1 Sections A.1, A.4, A-6 & A-7. Vol. 2 & 3, Consultant Reports Sec. A.1 & A.4; Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. B.1; Vol. 1, Part F; Vol. 1, Part G. Sec. A.2.7; Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. Part F June 2010 Page 4

7 Table F.0-1 Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) (h) (i) (j) (k) Alberta Regulation 113/93 Information Requirements And Checklist a list of substances, the sources of the substances and the amount of each substance that will be released into the environment as a result of the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or deletion, as the case may be, the method by which the substances will be released and the steps taken to reduce the amount of the substances released; 1. Provide a list and quantity of substances used in the production process in terms of a typical operating day. 2. Describe the water or air demands in terms of the sources, purpose (specific operation) and quantities. 3. Describe the sources of the substances to be released to the environment. 4. Describe the amount of the substance to be released to the environment. 5. Describe the methods of release. 6. Describe the minimization controls implemented. 7. For all plants, the industrial runoff volume for the plant developed area shall be determined. a summary of the environmental monitoring information gathered during the previous approval or registration period; 1. Provide any baseline environmental data that has been collected at the site (for air, water, soils, etc.). 2. Provide baseline hydrogeologic characteristics and groundwater monitoring data. a summary of the performance of substance release control systems used for the activity during the previous approval or registration period; 1. Not applicable to new plants. the justification for the release of substances into the environment as a result of the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or deletion, as the case may be; 1. Describe the application of process technology, management practices and current environmental control technology/control systems towards minimising the release of substances to the environment using pollution prevention approaches and pollution control technologies by: (a) evaluating and identifying alternate process and technologies; (b) input (raw materials, feedstocks, fuel, etc) substitution; (c) applying industry guidelines and standards; (d) referencing similar typical environmental approvals (either locally or in other jurisdictions); (e) considering potential environmental impacts; (f) considering unique situations due to plant location, size or capacity; and (g) application of ambient guidelines or standards. B-1 Location Sections A.7.1; A.7.2, A.7.3; Vol. 1 Part E, Sections E.1, E.2 & E.3; Vol. 2, Consultants Reports, CR #1, CR #2 & CR #3. Vol. 1, Sections B.5.2, B.5.3, B.5.4., B.7, B.8 & B.10; Vol. 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10 & E.11 Vol. 2, Consultants Reports, CR #9, CR #10 & CR #11. Sec. A.7; Vol. 2, Consultant Reports n/a Sections A.7.1; A.7.2, A.7.3; Vol. 1 Part E, Sections E.1, E.2 & E.3; Vol. 2, Consultants Reports, CR #1, CR #2 & CR #3. Vol. 1, Sections B.5.2, B.5.3, B.5.4., B.7, B.8 & B.10; Vol. 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10 & E.11; Vol. 3, CR #9, CR #10 & CR #11. Part F June 2010 Page 5

8 Table F.0-1 Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) (l) Alberta Regulation 113/93 Information Requirements And Checklist 2. What alternatives to releasing substances to the environment have been considered/evaluated, e.g. by-product synergy. the measures that will be implemented to minimize the amount of waste produced, including a list of the wastes that will or may be produced, the quantities and the method of final disposition of them; 1. Complete ATTACHMENT A. 2. Describe any waste minimization measures to be implemented. 3. Describe any liquid effluent/process wastewater or air emissions treatment facilities (see ATTACHMENT C). (m) any impact, including surface disturbance, that may or will result from the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or deletion, as the case may be; 1. Limit discussion to the extent and nature of the surface disturbance that will result from the activity. Include both temporary and permanent disturbances. Other impacts should be identified in the other relevant areas of this application form such as section (k). Location Vol. 1, Part B, Sections B.3.7.5, B.5.3 & B.10. Sections A.2.5; A.6 & A.7; Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. B.3.0; Vol. 1, Part E, Sec. E, Vol. 2, Consultant Reports (n) (o) (p) confirmation that any emergency response plans that are required to be filed with the local authority of the municipality in which the activity is or is to be carried on or with Alberta Public Safety Services have been so filed; 1. Provide emergency response plans related to the disaster plans prepared in accordance with the requirements of the EUB and Municipal Affairs (MA). (a) statement of confirmation that the plans had been filed; (b) date of initial preparation and subsequent amendments to or replacements of the plan; and (c) agencies to which the plan has been submitted (e.g. Municipalities, EUB, MA). confirmation that there are contingency plans in place to deal with any unforeseen sudden or gradual releases of substances to the environment; 1. Provide environmental contingency plans to deal with abnormal occurrences which have the potential of adversely affecting the environment. These occurrences need not be environmental emergencies resulting in adverse impacts or even result in contravention of approval limits; but could be occurrences which may result in variations to environmental expectations described in the application. the conservation and reclamation plan for the activity; 1. Provide pre-construction site and soil assessments to evaluate and document soil, landscape and vegetation conditions, including pre-development land and soil inventories, as well as current land use. Identify any environmental risks or constraints for conservation and reclamation of the project, including constraints due to landscape or soil conditions. 2. Using the pre-site assessments, develop and discuss the procedures that will be used to return the site to equivalent land capability (this may involve returning the site to conditions and land uses that are similar to the pre-development setting or, in some instances, to alternate land use(s) that are different than before). Present the procedures in the form of a Conservation and Reclamation Plan that addresses: (a) facility planning Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. B Vol. 1, Appendix 3 Vol. 1, Part B, Sections B.10.3, B.10.4, B.11.3 & B Sections A.2.5; A.6.5, A.6.6, A.7.5 & A.7.6 Vol. 1, Part B, Sec. B.3.0 Vol. 1, Part E, Sections E.5 & E.6 Vol. 2, Consultant Reports, CR #5 Part F June 2010 Page 6

9 Table F.0-1 Information required by the Approvals and Registrations Procedure Regulation (AR 113/93) under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) (q) (r) (s) Alberta Regulation 113/93 Information Requirements And Checklist site dimension requirements (including discussion of minimizing surface disturbance); facility layout (buildings, infrastructure, etc); grading requirements; potential impact of the project on landscape aesthetics and plans to minimize such impacts; (b) land conservation planning (focussing on soil salvage and materials handling) location and separation of topsoil, subsoil and spoil stockpiles; topsoil quality, depth, and suitability for reclamation; areas where topsoil is to be salvaged along with general total volumes; volumes of topsoil to be used for current uses such as landscaping or for future use in final site reclamation; subsoil and spoil volumes and suitability for reclamation (if excavations are required for below grade structures); procedures and equipment to remove soil materials; problem soil handling (if problem soils are identified); protocols for suspending and recommencing topsoil salvage when field conditions will result in the mixing., loss, degradation or compaction oftopsoil; spill control and clean-up procures, including measures to prevent, remove or treat areas of contamination to meet established guidelines; (c) land reclamation planning (at a conceptual level in initial applications for new plants) end land use objectives for the reclaimed site and how equivalent land capability will be returned; removal of infrastructure; contouring and restoration of drainage; erosion control; soil replacement; revegetation and land management, including species list, seed source and quality, seeding rates and methods; fertilization rates and methods; and wildlife habitat plans where applicable. a description of the public consultation undertaken or proposed by the applicant; 1. Describe any proposed or conducted public involvement process. 2. Briefly describe the target audiences, frequency, type and purpose for the public involvement and any environmental concerns identified in the review and how those concerns were addressed. information required under any other regulation under the Act to be submitted as part of or in support of the application; any other information required by the Director, including information that is addressed in a standard, code of practice or guideline in respect of the activity that is published or adopted by the Department. Location & CR #6 Sec. A.5.0; Vol. 1, Part C Vol. 1, Appendices 4 & 5 n/a n/a Part F June 2010 Page 7

10 F.1 NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE APPLICANT Requirement AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(a) the name and address of the applicant; APPROVAL HOLDER INFORMATION Approval Holder: Graymont Western Canada Inc. Mailing Address: Telephone: Facsimile: Graymont Western Canada Inc. #200, Shellbridge Way Richmond, BC V6X 3C6 (604) (604) Contact Name: Mr. Rob Beleutz, AScT, CEA Environmental / Safety Manager rbeleutz@graymont.com I certify that this document and all attachments were prepared under my supervision to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and evaluated the information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the persons who manage the system, or those directly responsible for gathering the information, the information is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. Signature of Owner/Operator: Date: May 31, 2010 Per: Part F June 2010 Page 8

11 F.2 LOCATION, SIZE AND CAPACITY Requirement AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(b) the location, capacity and size of the activity to which the application relates; AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(c) the nature of the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or deletion, as the case may be; The legal land description for the Project is Sections 5, 6, 7, 8, 19, 30, and 31, all in Township 90, Range 9, West of the 4 th Meridian and a small portion of Northeast Quarter Section 36, in Township 90, Range 10, West of the 4 th Meridian (see Figure A.1-1). Proposed quarry activities and operations will disturb up to 391 ha with undisturbed buffer zones and development setbacks making up the remaining Project area within the 566 ha Graymont MAIM lease (Alberta Metallic and Industrial Mineral Lease No ). Quarry mining development will be staged in three phases (Mine Blocks 1, 2 and 3). Starting at the north end of the Graymont MAIM lease in 2012, Mine Block 3 will ultimately produce up to 34,000,000 tonnes until Mine Blocks 2 and 1 will produce up to 24,000,000 tonnes between 2035 and Quarry mine closure and final reclamation work will occur between 2047 and After quarry opening, initial production will start at 0.25 million tonnes per year (Mt/yr) for limestone rock products. With expectations of sustained and increasing regional demand for construction materials, annual production is projected by PCA to increase incrementally up to 2.0 Mt/yr over the next ten years. Further details of the location and description of the Parsons Creek Aggregates Limestone Quarry Project is included in Volume 1, Part A, Section A.1, Figures A.1-1, A.1-2, A.1-3 and Volume 1, Part B, Section B.1., Figure B.1.0-1, B.1.1-1, B F.3 NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION BOARD APPROVAL Requirement AR113/93 reference: 3(1)(d) where the applicant requires an approval from the Energy Resources Conservation Board or the Natural Resources Conservation Board in relation to the activity, the date of the written decision in respect of the application; No written decision has been issued in respect of the application for this Project. An Environmental Impact Assessment report has been submitted to Alberta Environment (AENV) and the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) for the Parsons Creek Aggregates Limestone Quarry Project as required under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act and the Natural Resources Conservation Board Act. It is the understanding of Graymont and PCA that a Federal review of the EIA will be jointly conducted with this submission. An application to the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) is included in Volume 1, Parts A, Sections A.1, A.4 and Volume 1, Part B, Sec. B.1 of this integrated application document. In accordance with Section 9 Part F June 2010 Page 9

12 of the Natural Resources Conservation Board Act, Graymont Western Canada Inc. (Graymont) and Parsons Creek Aggregates (PCA) is requesting NRCB approval for the construction, operation and reclamation of a limestone quarry producing more than 45,000 tonnes per year. The written decision of the NRCB will follow the regulatory review process. F.4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT Requirement AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(e) an indication of whether an environmental impact assessment report has been required; Graymont Western Canada Inc. (Graymont) and Parsons Creek Aggregates (PCA) is requesting NRCB and EPEA approval for the construction, operation and reclamation of a limestone quarry producing more than 45,000 tonnes per year. An EIA report has been submitted to Alberta Environment (AENV) and the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) for the Parsons Creek Aggregates Limestone Quarry Project. As per Schedule 1 of AR 111/93 an Environmental Impact Assessment is required for this Project. Summaries of relevant environmental information are included in Volume 1, Parts A, Sections A.1, A.4, A.6, A.7 and Volume 1, Part B, Sec. B.1 and Volume 1, Part E of this integrated Application. Specialized consultants have been hired by Graymont and PCA to complete reports related to the Project. These reports are included in the Application as Volumes 2 & 3, Consultant Reports, CR #1 to CR #15. F.5 EXISTING APPROVALS Requirement AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(f) copies of existing approvals or registrations that were issued to the applicant in respect of the activity under this Act or a predecessor of this Act; There are no existing approvals for this Project. An application to the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) is included in Volume 1, Part A, Sections A.1, A.4 and Volume 1, Part B, Section B.1 of this integrated application document. Applications for approvals under EPEA and Water Act are included in Volume 1, Part F and Volume 1, Part G respectively of this integrated application document. F.6 PROJECT SCHEDULE AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(g) the proposed or actual dates for construction commencement, construction completion and commencement of operation; Part F June 2010 Page 10

13 Subject to Project approval by the NRCB and approvals under EPEA and the Water Act, quarry construction and opening up is scheduled to begin later in the 3 rd Quarter of 2011 with limestone aggregate rock production commencing in the 2 nd Quarter of The quarry opening will begin in the north part of Project site and proceed south over the next 30 years of proposed quarry development, eventually towards Parsons Creek. After crossing Parsons Creek, the final 5-year phase of quarry activities and operations would be located about 800 m north from the Fort McMurray Urban Service Area and new residential areas. Quarry mining operations and reclamation activities for the first 10 year approval period of the Project are summarized in Table F.6-1. Table F.6-1 Year 10 Year Development and Reclamation Schedule Area (ha) Clearing* Soil Disturbance** Reclamation TOTALS * Cleared areas include reclamation materials stockpiles (RMS) ** Disturbed areas include areas within mine development plan having soil salvage Subject to local and regional market demand for aggregates, the life of Project is expected to be 40 years, including completion of revegetation work for final reclamation of areas disturbed by quarry activities and operations. Quarry activities and operations after 10 year approval period for the Project are summarized in Table F.6-2. Sequential quarry development and reclamation program has identified up to 391 ha that will require soil salvage. Table F.6-2 Year Quarry Development Schedule to Closure Area (ha) Clearing* Soil Disturbance** Reclamation*** 2012 to to to Part F June 2010 Page 11

14 Table F.6-2 Quarry Development Schedule to Closure Year Area (ha) Clearing* Soil Disturbance** Reclamation*** 2042 to TOTAL * Cleared areas include RMS that were not cleared during mine development ** Disturbed areas include areas within mine development plan having soil salvaged *** Reclamation includes surface area for constructed end-pit lakes and capped M3-NSL storage area in Mine Block 1 Through a progressive reclamation program, it is estimated that PCA will have reclaimed between 75 and 80% of the quarry disturbance footprint by the end of mining (ca 2046) for the life-of-quarry. The remaining area will be reclaimed within five years of completion of quarry mining. Project schedule detail is also provided in Volume 1, Part A, Section A.2.7 and Volume 1, Part B, Section B.1. F.7 SUBSTANCES RELEASED TO THE ENVIRONMENT AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(h) a list of substances, the sources of the substances and the amount of each substance that will be released into the environment as a result of the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or deletion, as the case may be, the method by which the substances will be released and the steps taken to reduce the amount of the substances released; Air emissions from the Project are associated with a number of sources, including: point sources from fuel combustion; fugitive emission sources from quarry activities or operations; and equipment and vehicular traffic required for the Project. A discussion of Project emissions is included in Volume 1, Part A, Section A.7.1, A.7.2, A.7.3 and Volume 1, Part B, Sections B.5.2, B.5.3, B.5.4, B.7, B.8 and B.10. An assessment of these emissions and potential mitigation measures are included in Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.1, E.2 and E.3. The environmental impact assessments for air quality and noise impact are included as Volume 2, Consultants Reports, CR #1, CR #2 and CR #3. A summary of PCA waste management program is included in Volume 1, Part B, Section B.10. A description of groundwater and surface water management is included in Volume 1, Part A, Sections A.7.9, A.7.10, A.7.11 and Volume 1, Part B, Sections B and B Potential impacts on these resources are included in Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10 and E.11. The environmental impact assessments for groundwater and surface water quality are included as Volume 3, Consultants Reports, CR #9, CR #10 and CR #11. A summary of PCA quarry water management program is included in Volume 1, Part B, Section B Part F June 2010 Page 12

15 F.8 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(i) a summary of the environmental monitoring information gathered during the previous approval or registration period; Furthermore, PCA will consider further opportunities to participate in regional initiatives relative to air quality issues. PCA will conduct water quality testing in accordance with consultant recommendations during operation and closure of the quarry to confirm water quality has not been adversely impacted by the Project. Environmental monitoring conducted for the Project was taken into consideration during the completion of the environmental assessments. Volume 1, Part E contains a summary of the environmental information provided in the application including monitoring information. Environmental monitoring conducted by specialized consultants for specific disciplines are contained in Volume 2, Consultants Reports. A summary of all proposed mitigation and monitoring is included in Volume 1, Part A, Section A.7. F.9 POLLUTION CONTROL SYSTEMS AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(j) a summary of the performance of substance release control systems used for the activity during the previous approval or registration period; PCA will implement a dust suppression program for all quarry activities and operations recognizing quarry operating areas and haul roads where dust sources are exposed to wind actions. PCA will implement best management practices for crushing, screening and power generation equipment. General equipment noise mitigation is also expected in the form of improved exhaust silencers with manufacturers upgrades required for newer engines Descriptions of air and noise emissions are included in Volume 1, Part B, Section B.7 and Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.1, E.2, E.3. Project mitigation and monitoring for emissions are also included in Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.1, E.2, E.3. Project mitigation and monitoring commitments for these emissions are included in Volume 1, Part A, Sections A.7.1, A.7.2, A.7.3. The groundwater and surface water controls for Project life-of-quarry is discussed in Volume 1, Part B, Section B.5.2. and Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10 and E.11. Project mitigation and monitoring is included in Volume 1, Part A, Section A.7.9, A.7.10, A.7.11 and Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10, E.11. A summary of PCA waste management program is included in Volume 1, Part B, Section B.10. Part F June 2010 Page 13

16 F.10 JUSTIFICATION FOR RELEASE OF SUBSTANCES AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(k) the justification for the release of substances into the environment as a result of the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or deletion, as the case may be; PCA will implement a dust suppression program for all quarry activities and operations recognizing quarry operating areas and haul roads where dust sources are exposed to wind actions. PCA will implement best management practices for crushing, screening and power generation equipment. General equipment noise mitigation is also expected in the form of improved exhaust silencers with manufacturers upgrades required for newer engines A description of the predicted air and noise emissions are found in Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.1, E.3 and Volume 2, Consultant Reports, CR #1 and CR #3. Project mitigation for emissions is also included in Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.1 and E.3. Project mitigation commitments for these emissions are included in Volume 1, Part A, Sections A.7.1., A.7.3. Groundwater and surface water for the Project life-of-quarry is discussed in Volume 1, Part B, Section B.5.2. and Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10, E.11. Project mitigation is also included in Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10, E.11. Project mitigation commitments are included in Volume 1, Part A, Sections A.7.9, A.7.10, A Graymont and PCA will undertake mitigation measures, including, but not limited to, best available technologies and best management practices to minimize identified VEC impacts resulting from the following emissions: air, noise, groundwater, and surface water. The potential environmental impacts are discussed in Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.9, E.10, E.11. PCA waste management program summary is included in Volume 1, Part B, Section B.10. F.11 WASTE MINIMIZATION AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(l) the measures that will be implemented to minimize the amount of waste produced, including a list of the wastes that will or may be produced, the quantities and the method of final disposition of them; Minimizing waste from the Project includes prevention of waste generation and recycling of those wastes which are produced. The primary benefits of waste minimization are reduced costs, both to the environment and proponent, of waste handling and disposal. Waste minimization activities will be ongoing. As new processes, materials, or management practices are adopted at the Project site, they will be subject to a waste management review to identify opportunities for waste minimization. Part F June 2010 Page 14

17 Pollution prevention will be accomplished by a recurring review of Project processes, material and energy inputs, maintenance procedures, purchasing practices, and staff support activities in an attempt to achieve improved performance. Additionally, specialists in industrial ecology or clean technology and production may be periodically consulted to ensure that all opportunities for pollution prevention are identified. PCA will undertake mitigation measures, including, but not limited to, best available technologies and best management practices to minimize the amount of waste produced by the Project. Wastewater management is provided in Volume 1, Part B, Sections B.3.7.5, B.5.3. A waste list, including the disposal methods and PCA waste management program summary is also provided in Volume 1, Part B, Section B.10. F.12 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(m) any impact, including surface disturbance, that may or will result from the activity, the change to the activity or the amendment, addition or deletion, as the case may be; Based on input received during PCA s public consultation process as well as advice from regulatory agencies and the professionals working on the Project, PCA is confident that the approach used for the EIA and CEA is comprehensive and accurately reflects the impacts of the Project. Environmental impacts, including baseline conditions, application case, cumulative effects assessment, proposed mitigations and monitoring have been completed for the Project and are included in Volume 1, Part A, Sections A.2.5, A.6, A.7 and Volume 1, Part B, Section B.3.0 and Volume 1, Part E and Volumes 2 & 3, Consultant Reports. F.13 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND CONTINGENCY PLANS AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(n) confirmation that any emergency response plans that are required to be filed with the local authority of the municipality in which the activity is or is to be carried on or with Alberta Public Safety Services have been so filed; AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(o) confirmation that there are contingency plans in place to deal with any unforeseen sudden or gradual releases of substances to the environment; The Project Emergency Response Plan will include policies, plans and programs for emergency preparedness and response. The objectives of the emergency preparedness and response programs are to ensure immediate, competent response and handling of emergencies while minimizing the danger to the public and workers. Effective communications will be maintained with all parties in an emergency. Where appropriate, combined resources are used from internal and external services. Given the fact that the Project is still in the early stages of engineering design, the ERP will continue to be refined and improved as more information becomes available. Part F June 2010 Page 15

18 PCA with Lehigh Hanson has developed a corporate emergency response and contingency plans for the Project that sets out procedures and identifies responsible personnel to deal with emergency situations. This plan is summarized in Volume 1, Part B, Section B and Volume 1, Appendix 3. PCA and Lehigh Hanson will also be submitting its Emergency Response Plan for review and approval by the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. F.14 CONSERVATION AND RECLAMATION AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(p) the conservation and reclamation plan for the activity; The Conservation and Reclamation (C&R) Plan for the Project outlines the vision, goals, approach and detailed plans for reclaiming all areas disturbed through the life of this project. The primary reclamation goal of the Project is to return the lands to a capability that is equivalent to predevelopment conditions and consistent with end land use objectives. The Project will cover about 391 ha of the remaining 566 ha Graymont MAIM lease area. The quarry design and mining direction has been changed recently by the boundaries resulting from recent surface reservation dispositions placed by Alberta Transportation for the Highway 63 realignment and Interchange project announced in References to the original mine plan have been maintained. Quarry activities and operations will commence in Block 3D. Estimated areas are provided in Table F.14-1 for the surface disturbances associated with the Project components through to closure. Table F.14-1 Parsons Creek Aggregates Project Disturbance Areas Project Component Land Disturbed (ha) Block 3 Quarry Block 3D 49 Quarry Block 3C 57 Quarry Block 3B 57 Quarry block 3A 57 M3-NSL Storage Area 10 External TS/OB Stockpiles 20 External Haul Road 1.0 Internal Haul Road (in-quarry) (2.0) Subtotal 251 Block 2 Quarry Block 2B 57 Quarry Block 2A 32 External OB Stockpile Areas 10 External Haul Road 1.0 Internal Haul Road (in-quarry) (1.0) Part F June 2010 Page 16

19 Table F.14-1 Parsons Creek Aggregates Project Disturbance Areas Project Component Land Disturbed (ha) Subtotal 99 Block 1 Quarry Block 1C 34 M3-NSL Storage Area 3.0 External OB Stockpile Areas 2.0 External Haul Road 1.0 Subtotal 40 All Blocks (Miscellaneous) Portable Plant Site (in-quarry) (4.0) Product Stockpiles (in-quarry) (2.0) Internal Haul Road (in-quarry) (4.0) Subtotal (10) Total Surface Disturbance 391 Project development, conservation and reclamation activities will be phased-in eventually over time and will allow for implementation of a progressive reclamation program after year 10 of the quarry project. Project conservation and reclamation activities for quarry mining operations are discussed in Volume 1, Part A, Sections A.2.5, A.6.5, A.6.6, A.7.5, A.7.6 and Volume 1, Part B, Section B.3.0 and Volume 1, Part E, Sections E.5, E.6 and Volume 2, Consultant Reports, CR #5, CR #6 of the Application. F.15 PUBLIC CONSULTATION AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(q) a description of the public consultation undertaken or proposed by the applicant; Public and aboriginal consultation processes have been important components of the Project. A high priority was placed on the views of the public, interested stakeholders, and regional aboriginal communities to ensure a fair environmental assessment process. The intent of the Parsons Creek Aggregates (PCA) consultation strategy has been to identify and incorporate a range of community values to ensure the Project was appropriately adapted to the local context. The Project consultation process began in June Consultation specific to the Project was initiated with the release and distribution of the Public Disclosure Document in June Throughout consultation activities over the past five years, interested or affected members of the public were provided with opportunities to meet with PCA representatives and participate in the regulatory process. Their concerns and comments were integrated into Project designs and future reclamation planning to the greatest extent possible. A summary of the Public Consultation Program is included in Volume 1, Part A, Section A.5.0 and Volume 1, Part C. Examples of recent stakeholder consultation are included in Volume 1, Appendix 4, Appendix 5. Part F June 2010 Page 17

20 F.16 SUPPLEMENTARY SUBMISSIONS AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(r) information required under any other regulation under the Act to be submitted as part of or in support of the application; No other submissions are being made under EPEA with respect to the Project. Graymont and PCA are also applying for approvals in accordance with the Natural Resources Conservation Act and Water Act. F.17 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AR 113/93 reference: 3(1)(s) any other information required by the Director, including information that is addressed in a standard, code of practice or guideline in respect of the activity that is published or adopted by the Department. Graymont and PCA are not aware at this time of any additional information that may be required by the Director with respect to the Project. Graymont and PCA are also applying for approvals in accordance with the Natural Resources Conservation Act and Water Act. Part F June 2010 Page 18