Proposal Removal and Relocation of Sediment within the Navigation Channel (St. John's Harbour)

The St. John's Port Authority (SJPA) is proposing a removal project to improve vessel navigation through the Navigational Channel (DFRP #00417) in St. John's Harbour, involving three specific locations. The Navigational Channel will see debris removal, daily inspections, pre-blast surveys of nearby structures, and removal of potentially up to approximately 7,100 cubic meters of rock, with underwater blasting required to achieve the necessary depths. Site characterization will include assessing the sediment composition to determine appropriate relocation and video interpretation of the existing marine environment and underwater topography. Environmental considerations will focus on minimizing disruptions to aquatic life, water quality, and nearby dwellings and structures.

Latest update

Notice of Determination

St. John’s Harbour Navigation Channel– [October 11, 2024] – The St. John’s Port Authority has determined that the proposed removal and or relocation of Sediment within the Navigation Channel is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:

  • impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples;
  • Indigenous knowledge;
  • community knowledge;
  • comments received from the public; and
  • technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:

  • Contaminant and Spill Management (Spill response):  All equipment being used will be inspected for leaks prior to deploying, spill response equipment will be readily available along with all personnel working on the project will be well versed on the environmental emergency response plan. Notification of work dates and duration will also be provided to the Canadian Coast Guard. 
  • Operation of machinery: Equipment will be cleaned prior to use and after use to ensure no contamination from the equipment's  previous use and in the event invasive species are present we don't encourage the spread to other sites. Deleterious substances will be prevented from entering the water by washing, refuelling, and servicing machinery before arriving on site if required.
  • Erosion and sediment control: If required silt booms/curtains will be deployed around the work area and sediment relocation areas and monitored during the sediment relocation process to determine effectiveness of the booms/curtains. Sediment relocation will be stopped if it is noticed the sediment control measures are failing.
  • Acoustic Measures: To protect fish from potential harm during daily blasting activities, the project will implement acoustic measures to repel and deter fish from the blast area immediately before each blast. These measures will help minimize the risk of injury to aquatic species by encouraging them to move away from the area. The effectiveness of these measures will be regularly monitored and adjusted as necessary to ensure the safety of fish and other aquatic organisms during blasting operations.
  • Pre-Blast Survey (if required)- A pre-blast survey will be conducted in the event blasting activities are reqruied. The survey will be completed  on all dwellings and structures within a 150-meter radius of the blast area. This survey aims to document the existing condition of these buildings and structures to assess any potential impact from the blasting activities. The results will be used to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to protect these structures and address any concerns that may arise during the project..

The St. John’s Port Authority is satisfied that that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Therefore, the St. John’s Port Authority may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.

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Contacts

Brandon Russell
Development - St. John's Port Authority
Brandon Russell, Manager, Technical Services
1 Water Street
P.O. Box 6178
St. John's NL A1C 5X8
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador A1X 5X8
Telephone: 709-682-3674
Email: brussell@sjpa-apsj.com


Disclaimer

This map is for illustrative purposes. The markers represent the approximate locations based on available data. More than one marker may be identified for a given assessment.

  • Location

    • Navigation Channel (Newfoundland and Labrador)

  • Nature of Activity

    • Ports and Harbours

  • Assessment Status

    Completed

  • Start Date

    2024-09-03

  • Proponent

    St. John's Port Authority (SJPA)

  • Authorities

    • St. John's Port Authority

  • Assessment Type

    Project on federal lands

  • Reference Number

    88869

Nearby assessments

...within 200 kilometres
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