Environmental Planning and Development
Increasing awareness of the importance of preserving our natural environment is reflected in changing policy and legislation that govern land use change. Provincial and municipal policies recognize the evaluation of the natural environment as a key component of the decision making process when land use change is proposed (e.g., for severance, subdivision, or re-zoning). Ecological consultants must have an in-depth understanding of planning requirements and of the necessary supporting studies to effect a timely and successful development application. We have the expertise to coordinate and complete the natural environment components of development applications for all scales of projects, starting with due diligence, through the natural heritage and impact assessments, to the effective communication of the results to the agencies involved.
OUR PRODUCTS & SERVICES
- Site Evaluation Reports
- Natural Heritage Evaluations
- Environmental Impact Studies (EIS)
- Site Suitability Analyses
- Fish Habitat Assessments
- Species at Risk Assessments
- Site Plans and Mitigation Measures
- Due Diligence Studies
- Water Quality Impact Assessments
- Wetland Evaluations and Boundary Delineation—Ontario
- Natural Environment Evaluations (Level 1 and 2) for Pits and Quarries
- Lake Capacity Analyses
- Assimilative Capacity Studies
- Recreational Capacity/Boating Studies
- Federal, Provincial, and Municipal Class Environmental Assessments
Biological Inventory and Surveys
Our terrestrial, wetland, and aquatic ecologists provide a full range of ecological services from general wildlife surveys to detailed inventories that assess the significance of natural features and their associated ecological function. We have extensive experience conducting radiotelemetry studies on a variety of species including snakes, turtles, and fish.
Our Products and Services
- Fisheries and Species at Risk Surveys
- Due Diligence Studies
- Habitat Inventories
- Tree Surveys and Woodland Assessments
- Tree Inventories and Health Assessments
- Wetland Evaluations — Ontario Wetland Evaluation System (OWES)
- Boat and Backpack Electrofishing
- Ecological Land Classification (ELC)
Scientific and Technical Consultation
Understanding and applying policies are critical for successful completion of resource development projects. Boreal Environmental has extensive natural resource policy experience across Canada in environmental assessments, forestry, mining, and hydroelectric developments. Boreal Environmental’s experience in navigating natural resource policy in Canada can help to ensure successful completion of resource development projects while minimizing environmental impacts.
Science-based approach
Boreal Environmental specializes in applying the latest scientific research to inform decisions and develop innovative solutions to minimize impacts and promote restoration.
Environmental Impact Assessment and Monitoring
Resource development projects result in inevitable impacts on the environment. Boreal Environmental specializes in providing environmental impact assessments from desktop to boots on the ground. From ecological land classification, rare species surveys, and wildlife monitoring to stakeholder consulting, policy reviews, and permitting, Boreal Environmental has expertise in all aspects of environmental impact assessment.
Rehabilitation and closure planning
We provide extensive expertise towards the successful permitting of exploration and mining projects. Mine closure plans are necessary for various stages of mine development, including advanced exploration, and are required before a new project is permitted. Regulators expect mines to be developed in anticipation of closure, and can provide closure plans to meet current standards and project-specific needs with innovative solutions.
Our Mine Closure Group can provide the following services:
- Development of Mine Closure Plan
- Closure and monitoring of historical mine sites
- Assistance with public and regulator consultation
- Waste characterization and ARD-ML prediction
- Geotechnical assessment for physical stability of mine components
- Hydrological & hydrogeological assessment
- Soil cover, revegetation and reclamation design
- Pre- and post- closure monitoring plans
- Progressive rehabilitation reporting
- Financial assurance cost estimation