Objective
Retained by the client to complete a Biophysical Impact Assessment Report (BIA) for submission to the municipality as well as the completion of a Wetland Assessment and Impact Report (WAIR) for submission to Alberta Environment and Parks. The client is submitting a development permit for approximately 68 acres of land in a large western Canadian urban centre that will include residential (R-G, M-1, M-2), mixed-use (MU-1), and commercial (C-C1) areas.
Approach
Vertex assessed the biophysical features of the site including soils, vegetation, landform, hydrology, wildlife, sensitive species, and rare plants and rare ecological communities. We identified, delineated, and classified all project site wetlands with reference to the Alberta Wetland Classification System (AWCS). All wetlands were submitted for Crown ownership review and were assessed using the provincial ABWRET-A standardized method for relative value assessment to be included in the Water Act application. We coordinated with the developer, the stormwater management engineers, and the municipality to incorporate project site wetlands into the development plan where possible.
Results
Vertex has successfully achieved a path to closure, including completion of the site design and development permit application through a combination of technical environmental review, field program design and execution, and direct engagement with the municipality.
